These are my dear, dear friends:

Annah Limmer and Josh Liverman

And they have a story that has challenged me, immensely.

Upon blogging their pictures, I must admit, I was a bit uncertain about what I’d write… not because there isn’t enough, but because there is too much.

So I’ll just settle with this, “Congrats, you two!”

……………

Just kidding. Wouldn’t that be so awkward if that was your whole blog post?

……..

But really. I sat here staring at the computer screen and thought to myself, “Will I write about how funny Josh is? No, that’s so lame. He’s so much more than how he makes us laugh.” “Will I write about how peaceful it is to be around Annah? She’s got this come-as-you-are feel to her that would make anybody feel like a million bucks to stand in her presence… I mean, I could, but everyone who knows her can tell you that.” I wanted to do something different for my friends. Something that carries substance.

So I dwelled on the nature of their relationship… What do I know about them? Together. As a couple…

BOOM. Easy. “Their service,” I said out loud.

Their service. I sat with it. I felt God bless the idea that was slowly coming to fruit.

“So much to say about their service… their story needs to be told…” I started pecking away at the keyboard.

People, listen close. These are two of the most dynamic and talented people I know. Each fully capable of being extremely successful money-makers/ballers/what have you, in the “real” world. Even in the depression.

Each of them are intelligent, charismatic, and gifted.

But instead of capitalizing on these characteristics, they have subtly offered them, to the Lord, knowing the glory belongs to Him.

I’m sure you get how stressful marriage is. Even if you’re not married. You’ve seen enough movies. And I’m sure you know that more than half of the problems people have, even celebrities, are based on the monies.

So with that said, receive this bit of truth:

Josh and Annah are stepping into marriage, and simultaneously stepping into a non-paid ministry position, with a wonderful missionary outreach called Frontiers. (www.frontiers.org)

Yeah. They don’t get a fo-sho pay-check twice a month. Like ever. They have stepped out and trusted that if they serve Him, He will provide enough for them. And I don’t know about you, but I’ve said that I’d do that more than I ever actually have.

They are living it. I am humbled.

They have quietly encouraged me to plunge into what feels more than a little scary; they have taught me a number on faith. Their commitment to living out the Gospel is the root of their relationship, and they– oh, they are the vibrant tree, in full blossom.

I feel like they are nestling their relationship at the feet of God’s funnel. If I know God, they will be blessed.

Their future is completely support raised, but they would never ever ever solicit it. So, I will

In fact, I don’t know if I’ll get a call tomorrow morning, asking for this blog post to be taken down. I don’t know if I’m even allowed to plug their ministry the way I am, but as their friend, I can’t help but want to serve a couple who so steadfastly serves others.

I would like to encourage everyone to check out what their future has in store for them, and how God has already used them as a team in these past few months. Go to www.joshliverman.com to get a feel for the larger scoop. It’s incredible.

If nothing else, I hope that you will pray. For security, for peace, for joy. These are my friends, people I know, care for, and can’t help but stand behind. Josh and Annah, I am humbled by your beginning. I love you both, to the end.