In addition to birthdays, travel, and CHRISTMAS, the past month has been filled with some pretty spectacular markers for our family. In the span of three weeks, with Christmas smack dab in the middle, we celebrated an Auburn graduation, a Texas Hill Country wedding, and an Angel Fire engagement. I’m sharing a few stories to process. So while this post is basically for the grandparents, consider yourself warmly invited.
– Hudson + Shelby 12.21.25 –
He was trying to tell a story about heirloom handkerchiefs. But he could barely get the words out. A choked sob, a few words about Shelby’s grandfather’s handkerchief, choked out by another sob, then onto his own great-grandfather’s handkerchief, tears streaming down his face throughout.
“What’s he doing?” I could see Hudson addressing the wedding guests. I heard his muffled voice but could barely make out his words.
The wedding planner motioned for me to come outside, and I stepped onto the porch from the holding room. Hudson was still going. Still trying to talk. A quick sob, a nervous chuckle, then a few more words about Shelby, family, and legacy. Corbin and I didn’t know about Hudson’s plan to welcome all of their guests at the beginning of their wedding. His emotion of undeserved joy – getting to marry Shelby, and witnessing all of the support from loved ones – was on full display through his heartfelt message.
The processional with the wedding party began, and the tears only turned on more.
Essie matched his emotion. The groomsman accompanying her clamped his arm around Essie’s and basically carried her down the aisle. Evidently, he whispered a combo of “you’ve got this” and “pull it together!” Just what she needed.
Who would have ever guessed that Basden, even with her tears, would have been the Wilson kid MOST pulled together walking down that aisle?
And standing at Hud’s side, Branson remained a mess throughout the whole ceremony.
Then the bride. We didn’t have to watch to see if the groom would shed tears, because we’d already seen it for a solid ten minutes.
In the past few weeks since Hudson and Shelby’s wedding, I’ve been chewing on Hudson’s emotional response at the altar – before and after Shelby’s father walked her down the aisle and put his daughter’s hand into Hud’s.
The most appropriate imagery I can come up with is the prophet Isaiah’s description:
As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you. Is 62:5
Biblically, a wedding represents Christ and his Beloved Church. Is this what Jesus feels like when we come to him? I can’t imagine it. What if Jesus really is longing, overflowing with emotion and joy, awaiting this reunion with his most loved sons and daughters?
The Apostle Paul’s words describe Jesus as Christ loved the church (you and me!) and gave himself up for her. Eph 5:25
Corbin and I have so many takeaways from Hud and Shelby’s wedding: Tim and Kimmy’s incredible generosity and acceptance of Hudson for their daughter; family and friends traveling from ALL OVER the country to celebrate with us; our pastor Graham jumping in for the entire weekend as part of our family… so many special highlights.
But the image that stays with me is one that was present all weekend, from the rehearsal dinner to the reception dancing: Hudson, waiting on his bride, completely overwhelmed with joy and emotion that she would choose him.
Last week, Joey Richards, SCS Associate Head of School, shared the following video during chapel. In the spirit of Isaiah and Paul’s teachings, click below to hear Pastor Begg’s three-minute profound story of Jesus’ love for us. You don’t want to miss this!
Hud, I can’t think of a time when I’ve been more proud to be your mom.
And Shelby, you are clearly loved by our son, and the rest of our family has followed suit. What a joy to have you as a Wilson, to join our family to yours. Hudson, and all of us, are better with you.
Thank you, Jesus, for making yourself available and known to us. You know us and love us so deeply. Thank you for your imagery of a groom waiting on his bride with open arms and tears of joy. Give us the grace to respond and enjoy the freedom that comes from living our lives following you.
Amen and Amen!
**And just WOW on the incredible photography, Natalya Phelps**