We met at Harvest (now Redeemer) 20s in October of 2018. We have been part of the same friend group at church for the last few years and would both show up at the same game nights, 7am Sunday breakfasts, church babysitting nights, and hiking. We struck up a few long conversations at church and enjoyed each other's friendship. I (Derek) noticed Joy's lovely character within the first couple of weeks of meeting. She brought an intentionality to friendships and a love for those around her. The room always lit up when Joy walked in, and it still does. I (Joy) noticed Derek's thoughtfulness and servant's heart. One time, we went for a hike with friends and he brought gluten free cookies just for me. My friends were pretty impressed and made sure to point out to me what a catch he was. :) I also admired his good reputation with everyone who knew him, I had never heard a negative word about him from anyone! After COVID started, Derek thought it was time to make a move, so he texted Joy: "How's quarantine going??" which led to a week-long text-a-thon, then a series of VERY long walks getting to know each other, then Derek helping Joy move into her new house, then starting to date, then falling in love, then getting engaged! That's the CliffsNotes version. :) Our relationship has been full of growing in our love, appreciation and understanding of each other. We've realized our deep need for Christ in seeing our own weakness and selfishness, while at the same time, seeing God's endless grace for us and the beauty of the gospel at work in our lives each day. Tim Keller said, "The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope.” We praise the Lord for this reality! We are so grateful for God's good gift to us in bringing us together to glorify him and display the gospel in our marriage. To him be the glory!

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.