It has been close to 25 years since Julie`s brother Jay and I got a divorce. However, my relationship with Jay`s family has continued. I have reflected on this failed marriage many times, believing that it was my love for the entire Mullen family that captured my heart and soul. Both Mr. and Mrs. Mullen and Jay`s eleven brothers and sisters, what an incredible family, filled with love compassion and devoted faith in God. Yes, you may have guessed, they are Catholic!
Of course, I thought that it was my job to fix all of Jay`s problems, then we would live happily ever after. I have since learned that this was my own co-dependency issues; I was the one that I should have focused on for healing! I could write volumes on that chapter!
Twelve years ago Julie and her husband Nick moved from Washington state to Florida, see where this is heading? Next vacation stop, a long overdue visit with Julie, Nick and their 10 children. Remember, they`re good Catholics!
I was greeted at their door by 5 smiling faces, welcoming me as family; just as the entire Mullen family had once welcomed me on my first visit to Washington, many years ago. The love and warmth of the Mullen family is alive and well in Julie and Nick`s home. Looking into these young faces, I saw familiar smiles of decades ago.
Acts 10:2 He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generosity to those in need and prayed to God regularly.
It been almost 5 years ago since Julie and I had seen one another, at her brother Jim`s funeral. If you have been following this blog, you may recall that shortly before his death, Jim shared Godly words of wisdom that changed my life! Perhaps, God used my failed marriage, to lead me to HIM and to teach me many, many valuable life lessons!
1 Peter1:18-19 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.
Julie and I had lot to catch up on, like many in these difficult times, Nick lost his job. His lack of employment has led them into financial devastation; causing foreclosure on their $300,000 home. Supporting his wife and 6 of 10 children still living at home is overwhelming; in true Mullen fashion, together Nick and Julie turn to their faith in God to meet their needs.
Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Jesus Christ.
There is so much more of this incredible adventure to write, so for the first time, I will continue later with the rest of the story! Amen!
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