we’re getting married :)

Earlier today I pulled out one of my old journals and read some of the entries from right after Beruke expressed his feelings and intentions towards me and the early days of us growing together. It was all so new and delicate then. I couldn’t believe this boy who had been just my friend has now become the man I’m going marry very soon. I found myself sobbing at how precious and beautiful our whole journey has been. In the beginning, I was so afraid that the whole thing would crash and burn and that I would be the one to mess it up. But the Lord has been so gracious to me. Beruke has brought nothing but an increase of peace and joy to my life. It has truly been the faithfulness and goodness of God at work. Since I first became friends with Beruke, I always just knew I could really trust him. And over time, we grew closer. I never expected that small friendship to end up where it is now. What a fun surprise :) Thank you, Jesus. And now, here we are. Our wedding coming so soon. We love Jesus with our whole hearts. Nothing is more important to us than living in the very center of His perfect will for our lives. He is Lord. Submitting to Him brought us both to a Bible School and church we had never heard of. Submitting to Him put us in the right places at the right time. Submitting to Him gave us this friendship and relationship that is such a gift. The Lord gave me the greatest blessing in Beruke. He is strong yet gentle with me. He encourages and participates in all my silliness. He has stood by my side through so much and pushed me to overcome and grow even when it was hard. Marriage is a privilege and honor that I don’t take lightly in the slightest. We are so excited to enter this new journey in partnership with each other and the Lord. Our lives will always radiate the Goodness and Glory of God.

Life is so good. It’s nothing like the ideas or expectations I had as a kid. Jesus had a lot to do with that. He came to give me life. The more abundant kind. I am so blessed to know Him, and so thankful He gave me a woman that runs after Him just as much as I do. Alexa Noelle Rivera is the epitome of sunlight personified. She was uniquely woven in the womb to be so great and to be my very best friend. In two and a half years, our relationship has grown so graciously sweet. Comparable to a stroll in the most beautiful garden where the weather is perfect. Where Rain comes not for gloom, but for rejuvenation. The grass is greener on the side where you water it. Acquaintances turned into casual friendship by intentional watering. We continued pouring the water, and it blossomed a dependable friendship likened unto an evergreen. No season could shake it. The intentional choice of watering again and again, day after day made the most beautiful flower. Our love, full of vibrant colors not seen before nor will they ever be. Truly marked by His peace. Marked by His presence. This garden. My permanent residence.