About six years ago, a young Maghrebi man, drifting through life and caught up in the politics of his country, decided to take a stand for what he thought was right. Through riots and running from the police, he was led to the couch of some Christian students. For the next couple of years, he struggled with the Islam he was raised to believe and what he was now learning through his newfound Christian friends. Then, after meeting Jesus in a dream, this young man accepted Him as his personal Savior.

In 2020, the Lord brought this young man into my life through a short encounter. While bringing him food throughout the COVID-19 lockdown, a friendship grew.

By 2021, this young man had become one of my best friends. He also met a beautiful young woman from the United States and was excited to reveal that their talks were growing longer and more frequent.

One day he shared that they were dating long-distance, and she was flying to see him. He asked if we could pick her up from the airport. Indeed, we could. We were excited to meet the woman who had captured his heart. He, too, was excited, yet also very nervous.

Then, on August 12, 2022, my young friend and I sat on the beach, sharing great memories. I gave him some advice, and we sang “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus,” one of his favorite songs. Throughout the day, I watched this young couple talk, laugh, and share memories with friends from around the world. Every person there had been blessed to play a special part in their relationship.

The next day, in the presence of family, friends, and God, I watched my friend say “I do” to the love of his life.

Two thousand years ago, Jesus said “I do” to a lost and dying world—the love of His life—as He hung sacrificially on the cross. Since then, Jesus has been calling us every day, inviting us to walk down that aisle, join Him and respond, “I do.”

The wedding ceremony is soon to take place, the reception table has been prepared, and Jesus is coming to receive His bride into the Heavenly kingdom. As we begin a new year, please join us in preparing to meet the Bridegroom.

In Revelation 22, Jesus says three times, “I come quickly.” There are people everywhere seeking something they do not understand, and time is short. Because of your prayers and financial support, AFM missionaries share the love of Jesus around the world, and souls are being saved for His kingdom.

Thank you on behalf of everyone who has received the opportunity to know Jesus through your support. May 2023 be a year that this world sees Jesus on a grand scale. The harvest is ripe. Let us be the hands and feet that bring others into the eternal kingdom of God. Amen.

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