Happily Ever After

Josh and Luz first met on September 2, 2022, during a hike through Onion Valley. Their first conversation was simple and unassuming, shared among a large group of friends as they made their way down the trail. At the time, it seemed like just a passing moment, yet it marked the gentle beginning of something meaningful. In the months that followed, they continued to see each other at church services and gatherings, exchanging brief conversations here and there. Slowly and quietly, a foundation was being laid. As time passed, shared moments at camps and other church events allowed their friendship to deepen. By the following year, during their second Lone Pine Youth Service, Josh felt his attention turning toward Luz in a new and undeniable way, and Luz found her heart growing fond of Josh’s company, noticing the care, respect, and kindness with which he spoke. Still, she guarded her heart carefully, entrusting her story fully to the Lord and believing that her life was His to write. Though life continued as usual, love was patiently taking shape, unrushed, intentional, and guided by God’s perfect timing. On the evening of April 25, 2024, Luz and her sisters had stopped for the Oceanside church service before traveling to Mexico, and afterward, they gathered with Josh and his sister for a casual dinner. As the night came to a close, Josh asked to speak with Luz. With a nervous heart and unwavering faith, he respectfully shared his feelings and asked if she would consider beginning a meaningful relationship with him under God’s guidance. In that moment, Luz recognized the very qualities she had prayed for: kindness, patience, faith, and devotion to the Lord. To Josh’s joy, she felt the same. From that day on, Josh and Luz intentionally chose one another. On August 4, 2024, they began courting, walking forward side by side with the Lord at the center. Over time, they became best friends, and together, they celebrated milestones and treasured the moments that strengthened their bond. Then, on June 7, surrounded by love and with the help of family, Josh asked Luz to spend forever with him. It was a moment filled with joy, gratitude, and the overwhelming peace that comes from knowing God’s hand has been present all along. Now, two years after their hearts first aligned, Josh and Luz stand ready to begin their life together as husband and wife. With thankful hearts and great anticipation, they look forward to a future written by the Lord, rooted in faith, guided by love, and surrounded by those who mean the most to them. THANK YOU, LORD, FOR YOUR PERFECT PLAN! “I have found the one whom my soul loves.” — Song of Solomon 3:4