I met Emily at church.

We had been going to the same Sunday class for a few weeks. Her dad taught the class, so her presence was less than voluntary than mine.

Week after week, she sat right next to me. She says it's because she liked sitting next to the wall. Each week I would pretend I didn't bring a pen so I could ask her for one from her purse. Eventually I convinced her to use that pen to write down her phone number.

Our first date went really well.

Emily was nervous. So was I.

By the end of our third date, I knew I would ask her to marry me one day.

The better I got to know Emily and her family, the more I fell in love with her. If you've ever had the pleasure of meeting her or anyone in the Davis clan, you understand.

Her love for Christ is unwavering. Her resilience under uncertainty is inspiring. Her respect for her father and mother is steadfast. Her wit and passion are endearing.

Thank you Lord for answering my prayers.

-Ben Leininger