The new Mr. and Mrs.

I've been thinking about something. I've been thinking about families and how they begin. Usually it starts with a chance meeting of two people. It begins with a hello and the possibility there could be more. And then there's a conversation. And then there's a date, and then more dates, and then a decision is made to move forward together. Trusting there's something special about what's happening. And then one day, two people decide. And a ring is bought and a question is asked....and a wedding is held...and a commitment is made. And a new family begins. 

And so last weekend, in a beautiful intimate ceremony, Austin and Lauren did just that...they became a family. And yes they are still part of something bigger with parents and sisters and all the rest of us, but last weekend they became their own. And so for better or for worse, from that day forward, they will face the world together. Their one decision leading to so many more. Planning trips and buying houses and paying mortgages and buying cars and having kids. It's daunting to think one decision will lead to so many others. But as long as the two of them are devoted to each other, and remember it's them against the world, they will make it through anything. Because life's not always easy, but it's better knowing someone cares as much as you do.  

And so with all that in my mind, I pray for them health and happiness and wonderful memories and joy filled moments and secrets only the two of them share. And fifty golden years from now, surrounded by the love of a family they started together, I pray they look back and remember the day it all began. On a lovely evening in Lafayette. 

WIth one heartfelt decision. 

Made by two and sealed by one.

Nothing but the best for the beautiful couple.

In Jesus name.

Amen.