In the winter of 2020 Deja was restored to the family of God. It just so happened at the same time, Gary was too. 
They began their journey. Determined to know more of this God Who saves. 
The Church at Oakdale did well and brought the two in with protecting arms— teaching them through Bible studies more about this Christian faith.
Gary and Deja ended up in the same Bible study. Once a week they met with others and learned. On two separate paths but with the same goal in mind, their worlds would soon collide. 

Not long after meeting, Gary’s heart was drawn to Deja. They had more and more frequent conversations after services. Deja felt comfortable with Gary to share all that she learned. Gary would begin to pursue Deja, making it known how he felt about her. But Deja had much to learn, and kept him at an arms length. 

Still, they grew closer. They began to meet at coffee shops to study. They talked about life, God, and their past. Their plans and hopes. Their pain and victories. 
And over a course of time, Gary only loved her more. And over time, Deja would learn that she loved him too. Gary would once again make known how he felt. But still, Deja had much to learn. And she would once again put him off. 

Bumps in the road came between the two. And months went by with no word passing between them. Gary had moved to a different city and they rarely saw each other.

Then, it came to pass that Gary remembered Deja, and decided to call her. The familiar voice was a comfort to Deja. And with no word about what had happened before, they reconciled. 
Gary moved back home a short time after this. They began their studies again. And drew closer, and closer, and closer. 

The love of God always pursues and always forgives. And as a true reflection of the love of God, Gary would once again make his feelings known. And this time, Deja would open her heart to him. 

Deja would find herself being loved and known like no other. Seeing in human form the love of God that chased her down and never gave her up. 
Gary would find in human form a soul which mirrored the kindness and purity of God. And he knew he would give anything, even his life, to never lose her. 

And here they are now, many storms and fiery trials overcome — that only they and God will ever know. And they are determined to not put to shame God’s blessing of marriage. 

“Here we both come! And here we are now.
Dressed for the wedding, and ready to vow.
May God do to us, be it so severely, 
If anything but death separates you and me.”