I really feel like my whole life led up to that one special moment when Mark got down on one knee with a ring in his hand.

Those years of waiting in high school, waiting for someone to take me on a date left me feeling cast aside, lonely, and unwanted.

But going to college shifted my perspective.

I didn’t need a man to be happy.

I needed God, and His love alone would fulfill me.

I embraced my singleness and created bonds with friends that could never be broken.

I didn’t realize it, but God was preparing me, as he was preparing Mark, for us to meet each other. The Lord in His perfect timing was crafting our hearts in patience, until we were both ready for us to cross paths.

Mark waited, too. Waited for the right girl, waited for a clear sign of what his vocation might be. I was his sign. I didn’t know it at the time, but God brought us together in a way so beautiful, I’d never be able to describe in words.

And God knew. God knew how we would meet, how we would talk and get to know each other, how Mark would ask me out, how we would date intentionally, how we would fall in love, and how he would propose.

I’ve heard it said, “run as fast as you can towards God, and if someone keeps up, introduce yourself.” And that’s exactly what I did.

Friends, do not despair. Lift up your worries and anxieties to the Lord, and He will give you rest. He will comfort you. He is preparing you for your purpose. Don’t let fear overwhelm you and allow the Spirit of God to wash over you and bring you peace.

“When the time is right, I, the Lord will make it happen.” ~Isaiah 60:22