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Twenty years ago today I watched Heather come down the aisle and become my wife. Wow. Twenty years ago.

We met in Bible College (some called it Bridal College). She was returning to school to do her fourth year. I was in my final year. I fell in love at first sight. She … not so much. We began dating a few weeks into the school year. For the first few weeks, she would tell her roommate that she was going to break up with me the next time we got together. But, I’d win her over with my charm. After a few weeks, she gave up and the rest, as they say, is history.

I remember some of the talks we had before getting married. We dreamed about doing ministry among those who were rejected by the church. We talked about what it would be like to be in a community among drug addicts, prostitutes, outlaws, and the homeless. What would it be like to reach the “unreachable” for God?

It took a lot of years to see those dreams realized, but here we are. It’s truly incredible.

We’ve experienced so much together on this journey. Incredible victories, heart-wretching defeats. Unbelievable joy, indescribable pain. We’ve been blessed with an amazing family and wonderful friends. We’ve seen so many lives transformed over the years.

And yet, in all of it, I sit here today, simply in awe of the gift I’ve been given in my wife. Heather has been there at my best and at my worse. There are times when I was there for her. There have been times when I’ve failed her. I don’t deserve her and yet she continues to stand at my side. She is an incredible mother to my children. She’s a phenomenal supporter of my calling. She is the perfect partner to live life with.

So, on this 20th anniversary, I want to tell the world that I love you with all my heart. I look forward to the journey that is before us, and I am so very grateful for the path we have taken so far.

Happy anniversary, Heather.