What a wonderful blessing it is to know that your family is happy and doing great! It has been that way since I came to Cincinnati, and it's an even greater privilege to hear your voices every now and then. The Lord continues to richly bless me, and much more importantly each of you. I was so overjoyed to talk with you all, and I'm sure you were equally excited for that opportunity. Congratulations to Mom on her talk, I just KNEW she would do well! Ah Mother's Day, where everything just works out like a charm! It would be nice if everyday could be like that, but we wouldn't learn too much.
One of the best things about being a missionary is knowing that there are literally millions of people around the world praying for you on a daily basis, including the First Presidency and the Twelve. This has been one of the great comforts for me, and it definitely drives the loneliness and discouragement away. As I told you yesterday, the homesickness has completely vanished. Of course, I miss everyone and think about you everyday, but that knowledge that you're doing well has actually been a strength rather than a hinderance to the work. Funny how that happens, huh!?
I still can't fathom that I've been on a mission for basically 9 months now, it's crazy! I am really beginning to feel like the Lord is shaping me into the missionary He wants me to be, and because I trust Him a lot more now, we are being blessed with many people to teach....especially families! This is the last week of the transfer, and we want it to be the best week we've had so far. We are very close to achieving the goals we set at the beginning of last month, and are excited to see the Lord bring them to full fruition. Our biggest challenge right now continues to be investigators at church(we had 2 committed who didn't show)and progressing investigators. Our boldness in extending commitments has gotten better, but there is still much we can improve on. I know that the biggest key to helping investigators progress will be in how well they are fellowshipped. The member involvement continues to increase, and we especially need great fellowshippers at this time. I have no doubt whatsoever that the Lord will provide for us, but first we have to do everything we can.
President Robbins has instructed us to start using a lesson format from Elder Jensen, and it will definitely improve the quality of our lessons. President also had to counsel us this week concerning anti-Mormon literature, as it is apparent that some missionaries have been reading it. I am extremely glad not to count myself in that group, but it is still very sad to see that some will rely on garbage for their opinions or beliefs. However, it will not tear down my testimony at all!! Miracles are happening in Wilmington, and nothing can stop the Lord from fulfilling His "works and designs" for this area. How grateful I am to be in this area at this time! And thanks for the excerpts from Elder Perry's talk, those will definitely be helpful. Thank you also for continuing to do all you can to make everyday worthwhile for me! Your efforts have definitely not been in vain. Hope you all have an excellent week, may the Lord be with you always!!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
On the verge...
Hard to believe that I will be talking to you on the phone again this coming Sunday! Seems like Christmas just happened, and yet, here we are moving through May!
All right, now to get down to the nitty gritty. One of the greatest spiritual witnesses I've seen time and time again since I've been here is knowing that my family is being blessed and well taken care of. With that priceless piece of knowledge, I am able to go through the day without any concern or fear as to how you all are doing, I just know deep down that the Lord has you in His care.
Now I'd like to see the Lord help our investigators get to Church! This is an area we are really struggling with right now, it is probably the one thing that separates most of our investigators from being baptized. Yeah, they are THAT prepared and interested in learning about and accepting the message of the gospel. I just really hope we can get them to see how important it is to come to Church each week, it is absolutely essential. However, we have nonetheless seen great blessings from God in having many opportunities to teach, and this is a result of planning and praying with faith. Planning with faith works!! This past week, we decided during our nightly planning that we would plan our indicators based on what we wanted, and not merely what the following day presented....hopefully that makes sense. In short, we planned by faith and not by sight. :) The result was that we taught 15 lessons, the most I've taught in Wilmington during a week, and found 9 new investigators! Pretty much all of them are families, and this is what we've been praying for this transfer! All of them seem really interested, and are looking to find a solid foundation to build their families around. Boy does patience pay off as well!
All this time I've spent in Wilmington, I've felt that this area is on the verge of really opening up. I haven't seen it quite yet, but am starting to see how important it is to be patient with the Lord and His timetable. The focus this week will be on a LOT more member presents, more progressing investigators, and more investigators at sacrament meeting. Currently, we are way behind on our goals we set for those indicators, so they will be the big focus these last 2 weeks. We've realized that the biggest thing that's keeping us from achieving our goals is, predictably, ourselves! I'm just so grateful that the Lord is willing to bless us continually in spite of all the weaknesses we possess.
Stake Conference was great, I really enjoyed all of the talks that were given! We had a special satellite broadcast from Salt Lake, and the speakers were President Beck (the new RS president), Elder Jensen, Elder Perry, and finally Pres. Monson. It's really interesting, though, to see someone in your ward as one of the speakers. They all did very well, I felt the confirming witness of the Spirit that what they spoke on was what we all needed to hear. I am grateful for the knowledge we have that God still speaks through His chosen servants in these last days. That knowledge needs to be declared to everyone whenever an opportunity presents itself. One of the things I tell people about the Book of Mormon to help them understand it's value is this: "The Bible is proof that God spoke. The Book of Mormon is proof that He speaks."
I have discovered the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon, in a way that I never have previously. It is such a priceless, powerful gift that God has given us! And as Pres. Benson has said, we need to "flood the earth with the Book of Mormon." It is my prayer that each of us would set a goal to give away a copy once a month, maybe even once a WEEK if you feel that confident. As a missionary, I don't really have a choice. We've got tons of copies, and they serve no purpose sitting on the shelf. In fact, there's one right next to me now, with the hope of presenting it to someone during the day.
In my mind's eye, no other family or group of friends comes close to the ones I've got. May our Heavenly Father strengthen and help you, especially when you need His presence the most. As we've been told a lot these days, God will NEVER leave His children alone, but we must do all we can to come unto Him....and He has promised to do the rest. God bless you all!
All right, now to get down to the nitty gritty. One of the greatest spiritual witnesses I've seen time and time again since I've been here is knowing that my family is being blessed and well taken care of. With that priceless piece of knowledge, I am able to go through the day without any concern or fear as to how you all are doing, I just know deep down that the Lord has you in His care.
Now I'd like to see the Lord help our investigators get to Church! This is an area we are really struggling with right now, it is probably the one thing that separates most of our investigators from being baptized. Yeah, they are THAT prepared and interested in learning about and accepting the message of the gospel. I just really hope we can get them to see how important it is to come to Church each week, it is absolutely essential. However, we have nonetheless seen great blessings from God in having many opportunities to teach, and this is a result of planning and praying with faith. Planning with faith works!! This past week, we decided during our nightly planning that we would plan our indicators based on what we wanted, and not merely what the following day presented....hopefully that makes sense. In short, we planned by faith and not by sight. :) The result was that we taught 15 lessons, the most I've taught in Wilmington during a week, and found 9 new investigators! Pretty much all of them are families, and this is what we've been praying for this transfer! All of them seem really interested, and are looking to find a solid foundation to build their families around. Boy does patience pay off as well!
All this time I've spent in Wilmington, I've felt that this area is on the verge of really opening up. I haven't seen it quite yet, but am starting to see how important it is to be patient with the Lord and His timetable. The focus this week will be on a LOT more member presents, more progressing investigators, and more investigators at sacrament meeting. Currently, we are way behind on our goals we set for those indicators, so they will be the big focus these last 2 weeks. We've realized that the biggest thing that's keeping us from achieving our goals is, predictably, ourselves! I'm just so grateful that the Lord is willing to bless us continually in spite of all the weaknesses we possess.
Stake Conference was great, I really enjoyed all of the talks that were given! We had a special satellite broadcast from Salt Lake, and the speakers were President Beck (the new RS president), Elder Jensen, Elder Perry, and finally Pres. Monson. It's really interesting, though, to see someone in your ward as one of the speakers. They all did very well, I felt the confirming witness of the Spirit that what they spoke on was what we all needed to hear. I am grateful for the knowledge we have that God still speaks through His chosen servants in these last days. That knowledge needs to be declared to everyone whenever an opportunity presents itself. One of the things I tell people about the Book of Mormon to help them understand it's value is this: "The Bible is proof that God spoke. The Book of Mormon is proof that He speaks."
I have discovered the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon, in a way that I never have previously. It is such a priceless, powerful gift that God has given us! And as Pres. Benson has said, we need to "flood the earth with the Book of Mormon." It is my prayer that each of us would set a goal to give away a copy once a month, maybe even once a WEEK if you feel that confident. As a missionary, I don't really have a choice. We've got tons of copies, and they serve no purpose sitting on the shelf. In fact, there's one right next to me now, with the hope of presenting it to someone during the day.
In my mind's eye, no other family or group of friends comes close to the ones I've got. May our Heavenly Father strengthen and help you, especially when you need His presence the most. As we've been told a lot these days, God will NEVER leave His children alone, but we must do all we can to come unto Him....and He has promised to do the rest. God bless you all!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
The work goes on
Hard to believe the month is almost over!! What the heck is going on?! I've been gone 8 months and so much wonderful things are happening, especially there at home. It is amazing to see the Lord raining blessings down upon you, and it helps me feel that I'm at least doing something right.
As I indicated last week, Bro. Tracy Watson, director of the Prosleyting Department, came to our Zone Conference on Thursday. What a treat it was to have him instruct us!! On a quick side note, I believe that the new gospel art book would be a fantastic tool for missionaries. I looked through it a couple weeks ago and was pretty fascinated with what I saw. I thought to myself, "This is almost like Preach My Gospel, only it's in pictures!" Bro. Watson wanted our feedback on it, and I gave my whole-hearted endorsement for it. So, back to the work. Bro. Watson really opened my eyes to see that EVERYTHING we teach should be geared towards My Purpose, as stated on Pg. 1 of Preach My Gospel. Thank you for instilling in me what my purpose as a missionary is, it's something I have to think about every day or I've forgotten the reason I came on a mission!! That's pretty much the first thing we read in PMG, and the Brethren were dead on with putting it right there. Ever since Bro. Watson's training, we have been earnestly seeking to gear all the lessons towards those objectives he outlined, and I've noticed that the people we're teaching are paying WAY more attention. Because of that, the number of new investigators has also improved gradually, and our next aim is to help the members embrace the study of Preach My Gospel the way we have. As it states in PMG, a regular study of it will foster unity between members and full-time missionaries. We have been putting a big emphasis on Family Mission Plans, and the key to those being successful will be not just setting goals w/members, but following up on them.
Yesterday was a memorable Stake Priesthood, all of the speakers did a very good job. It was almost like another Zone Conference too, I saw missionaries everywhere! I suppose the only question I have is how I can better teach people the importance of authority. The trend I've noticed throughout my mission is that when teaching the first lesson, by far the hardest thing to help people understand has been authority. When that happens, they don't fully understand the significance of the Great Apostasy nor, even more importantly, the Restoration. I feel like I've used every scripture and analogy that I know how to use, so if you know of anything I need to do more of, or do differently, I gladly welcome any advice. On a happier note, Kenny Ewing is progressing along very well! We plan to set a baptismal date with him this week, but first he needs to come to Church a few times. I feel like that's the only thing standing between him and baptism, and I know he would've come yesterday if he hadn't been sick. He's reading from the Book of Mormon and praying on his own, and he told us that he has faith that he will receive an answer, and he's beginning to! He told us that he used to feel like any answer you received from God would come immediately and in some miraculous way. However, when we taught him, we explained that God will answer every earnest prayer, but it will always be in His own time and in His own way. He is receiving answers gradually, and I am so happy knowing that we taught pure, simple doctrine and bore testimony by the Spirit. With Drake Coleman, we feel that he understands the gospel, but doesn't fully see the need for obedience, so naturally he hasn't recognized the blessings. Our goal is to show him the importance of obedience, and of course promise him blessings for doing so. He has the desire to be baptized, but it is clear to us after talking with him that Satan is working very hard to distract him. We will help him in any way that we can, and I seek an interest in your prayers on his behalf.
Well, I can't express how grateful I am for this gospel and the peace and joy that it brings every day! I am remembering to always share it with a smile too. :) I got Mom's letter last week, and I hope she and the kids get home safely and that they had a wonderful time in "The Green State." I know that because we have the fulness of the gospel, we will be together forever and no wordly power can take that from us, and that makes us great! The temple is an unbelievable source of power and safety, we truly are never lost when we can see the temple. I pray that this week will continue to yield blessings for each of you, I have full confidence that it will!! God Bless!
As I indicated last week, Bro. Tracy Watson, director of the Prosleyting Department, came to our Zone Conference on Thursday. What a treat it was to have him instruct us!! On a quick side note, I believe that the new gospel art book would be a fantastic tool for missionaries. I looked through it a couple weeks ago and was pretty fascinated with what I saw. I thought to myself, "This is almost like Preach My Gospel, only it's in pictures!" Bro. Watson wanted our feedback on it, and I gave my whole-hearted endorsement for it. So, back to the work. Bro. Watson really opened my eyes to see that EVERYTHING we teach should be geared towards My Purpose, as stated on Pg. 1 of Preach My Gospel. Thank you for instilling in me what my purpose as a missionary is, it's something I have to think about every day or I've forgotten the reason I came on a mission!! That's pretty much the first thing we read in PMG, and the Brethren were dead on with putting it right there. Ever since Bro. Watson's training, we have been earnestly seeking to gear all the lessons towards those objectives he outlined, and I've noticed that the people we're teaching are paying WAY more attention. Because of that, the number of new investigators has also improved gradually, and our next aim is to help the members embrace the study of Preach My Gospel the way we have. As it states in PMG, a regular study of it will foster unity between members and full-time missionaries. We have been putting a big emphasis on Family Mission Plans, and the key to those being successful will be not just setting goals w/members, but following up on them.
Yesterday was a memorable Stake Priesthood, all of the speakers did a very good job. It was almost like another Zone Conference too, I saw missionaries everywhere! I suppose the only question I have is how I can better teach people the importance of authority. The trend I've noticed throughout my mission is that when teaching the first lesson, by far the hardest thing to help people understand has been authority. When that happens, they don't fully understand the significance of the Great Apostasy nor, even more importantly, the Restoration. I feel like I've used every scripture and analogy that I know how to use, so if you know of anything I need to do more of, or do differently, I gladly welcome any advice. On a happier note, Kenny Ewing is progressing along very well! We plan to set a baptismal date with him this week, but first he needs to come to Church a few times. I feel like that's the only thing standing between him and baptism, and I know he would've come yesterday if he hadn't been sick. He's reading from the Book of Mormon and praying on his own, and he told us that he has faith that he will receive an answer, and he's beginning to! He told us that he used to feel like any answer you received from God would come immediately and in some miraculous way. However, when we taught him, we explained that God will answer every earnest prayer, but it will always be in His own time and in His own way. He is receiving answers gradually, and I am so happy knowing that we taught pure, simple doctrine and bore testimony by the Spirit. With Drake Coleman, we feel that he understands the gospel, but doesn't fully see the need for obedience, so naturally he hasn't recognized the blessings. Our goal is to show him the importance of obedience, and of course promise him blessings for doing so. He has the desire to be baptized, but it is clear to us after talking with him that Satan is working very hard to distract him. We will help him in any way that we can, and I seek an interest in your prayers on his behalf.
Well, I can't express how grateful I am for this gospel and the peace and joy that it brings every day! I am remembering to always share it with a smile too. :) I got Mom's letter last week, and I hope she and the kids get home safely and that they had a wonderful time in "The Green State." I know that because we have the fulness of the gospel, we will be together forever and no wordly power can take that from us, and that makes us great! The temple is an unbelievable source of power and safety, we truly are never lost when we can see the temple. I pray that this week will continue to yield blessings for each of you, I have full confidence that it will!! God Bless!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Easter in the mission field
What a memorable week this was, and for many reasons! Chief among them all was commemorating the last week of the Savior's life, culminating in His glorious Resurrection. Couldn't have asked for better Easter weather either, it was spectacular! A lot better than it looks right now, that's for sure.
Anyway, it was a great and unique opportunity to bear testimony that He lives to everyone we talked to. I felt the Spirit and I know some people we spoke with did as well. Here's a quick experience from yesterday about bearing testimony of the Living Christ. Elder Janiec and I were tracting at the end of the day, and had talked to many people who were very kind and filled with the true spirit of Easter. At the LAST door we knocked (funny how often stuff like that happens), we met a gentleman who didn't waste anytime telling us that he was a "born again" Christian who was already saved. He then quoted some scriptures from the King James Bible about salvation, and then he told us that his church believes in the doctrine of election, or in other words those whom Christ has already chosen to be saved. He asked us if we knew that Jesus Christ was our Lord and Savior, and if we believed that everyone will be saved. Elder Janiec responded with a great statement of the first principles and ordinances of the gospel, and how we believe God loves all of His children and does want them all to be saved, but that not everyone will be. The gentleman's forceful response was if we believed that everyone would see Christ at the great and last judgment. He didn't think that sinners who refused to repent and accept Christ would get to see Him at all. At this moment, the Spirit prompted me: "Speak now, but be humble." I bore solemn, pure testimony that Jesus Christ lives and that He loves us, but that we all have a personal responsibility to accept Him AND live His gospel. I closed with saying that I know that everyone will have an opportunity to see Him at the final judgment, but those that don't repent will not be able to witness His majesty and glory forever if they refuse to come unto Him. This changed the whole conversation, and he softened up quite a bit and told us he appreciated what we did as missionaries and wished us the best of luck. This was yet another witness to me of the power of bearing pure, simple testimony. Nothing but doctrine. That was just one experience, there were many this week as we bore testimony of the Savior to everyone.
We were also able to teach 12 lessons this week, the most we've taught since I've been in Wilmington. Out of that also came 2 new investigators, both of which had great questions and seem well prepared to accept our message. We found plenty of solid potential investigators as well, so things have taken a definite upswing here. I'm not satisfied yet, I know there is still a lot of good that can be accomplished. The member work is starting to pick up more, and we have several Family Mission Plans already set up for this week, which is great! We now have the benefit of two outstanding RM's to assist us, Eric Taylor and Brynn Martin. They both shared their testimonies in Church yesterday, and they seem excited to continue doing so while working with us. We also got to hear from Troy Maki, who is leaving for the MTC this weekend. He won't have much farther to go after that, considering he's been called to serve in the Utah Provo Mission speaking Spanish. It's amazing to see what missions can do, I know I will never regret accepting the call to serve our King!!
Looking forward to another Zone Conference this week, sounds like it will be fantastic. Brother Tracy Watson, director of the Prosleyting Department for the Church will be coming. According to President Robbins, he helped put together Preach My Gospel, so it should be very interesting to see what he has in store for us.
Glad to hear you all had a wonderful Easter, best of luck to Kenz as she heads back to school. Wow, Dad is going to have the house all to himself! Although, I doubt he'll do what I usually would when I'm home alone; you know, stuff like junk food, TV, video games. The mission has changed my perspective, it's been very interesting to see what matters the most. I can't believe how much time I wasted in those past years, it's something I don't like to think about now.
Also, please thank the Heaton's for the wonderful Easter card, it meant a lot. I forgot to mention this last week, although I'm sure you noticed from the pictures, but the cookies are fantastic!! Well done Mom and Ellie! Well, I think I've covered everything for the week. Miracles are happening here and also back home, I've seen it in your lives and the lives of those around you. I couldn't ask for anything more than for those I love to be happy and to know that God loves them no matter what. May the spirit of Easter continue to fill us with warmth EVERYDAY, for without the Savior's miraculous gift, we'd have no reason to be here. May God bless you all and help you to share His gospel with His children, the world needs it so badly!!
Anyway, it was a great and unique opportunity to bear testimony that He lives to everyone we talked to. I felt the Spirit and I know some people we spoke with did as well. Here's a quick experience from yesterday about bearing testimony of the Living Christ. Elder Janiec and I were tracting at the end of the day, and had talked to many people who were very kind and filled with the true spirit of Easter. At the LAST door we knocked (funny how often stuff like that happens), we met a gentleman who didn't waste anytime telling us that he was a "born again" Christian who was already saved. He then quoted some scriptures from the King James Bible about salvation, and then he told us that his church believes in the doctrine of election, or in other words those whom Christ has already chosen to be saved. He asked us if we knew that Jesus Christ was our Lord and Savior, and if we believed that everyone will be saved. Elder Janiec responded with a great statement of the first principles and ordinances of the gospel, and how we believe God loves all of His children and does want them all to be saved, but that not everyone will be. The gentleman's forceful response was if we believed that everyone would see Christ at the great and last judgment. He didn't think that sinners who refused to repent and accept Christ would get to see Him at all. At this moment, the Spirit prompted me: "Speak now, but be humble." I bore solemn, pure testimony that Jesus Christ lives and that He loves us, but that we all have a personal responsibility to accept Him AND live His gospel. I closed with saying that I know that everyone will have an opportunity to see Him at the final judgment, but those that don't repent will not be able to witness His majesty and glory forever if they refuse to come unto Him. This changed the whole conversation, and he softened up quite a bit and told us he appreciated what we did as missionaries and wished us the best of luck. This was yet another witness to me of the power of bearing pure, simple testimony. Nothing but doctrine. That was just one experience, there were many this week as we bore testimony of the Savior to everyone.
We were also able to teach 12 lessons this week, the most we've taught since I've been in Wilmington. Out of that also came 2 new investigators, both of which had great questions and seem well prepared to accept our message. We found plenty of solid potential investigators as well, so things have taken a definite upswing here. I'm not satisfied yet, I know there is still a lot of good that can be accomplished. The member work is starting to pick up more, and we have several Family Mission Plans already set up for this week, which is great! We now have the benefit of two outstanding RM's to assist us, Eric Taylor and Brynn Martin. They both shared their testimonies in Church yesterday, and they seem excited to continue doing so while working with us. We also got to hear from Troy Maki, who is leaving for the MTC this weekend. He won't have much farther to go after that, considering he's been called to serve in the Utah Provo Mission speaking Spanish. It's amazing to see what missions can do, I know I will never regret accepting the call to serve our King!!
Looking forward to another Zone Conference this week, sounds like it will be fantastic. Brother Tracy Watson, director of the Prosleyting Department for the Church will be coming. According to President Robbins, he helped put together Preach My Gospel, so it should be very interesting to see what he has in store for us.
Glad to hear you all had a wonderful Easter, best of luck to Kenz as she heads back to school. Wow, Dad is going to have the house all to himself! Although, I doubt he'll do what I usually would when I'm home alone; you know, stuff like junk food, TV, video games. The mission has changed my perspective, it's been very interesting to see what matters the most. I can't believe how much time I wasted in those past years, it's something I don't like to think about now.
Also, please thank the Heaton's for the wonderful Easter card, it meant a lot. I forgot to mention this last week, although I'm sure you noticed from the pictures, but the cookies are fantastic!! Well done Mom and Ellie! Well, I think I've covered everything for the week. Miracles are happening here and also back home, I've seen it in your lives and the lives of those around you. I couldn't ask for anything more than for those I love to be happy and to know that God loves them no matter what. May the spirit of Easter continue to fill us with warmth EVERYDAY, for without the Savior's miraculous gift, we'd have no reason to be here. May God bless you all and help you to share His gospel with His children, the world needs it so badly!!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Still going strong in Wilmington
Happy Tuesday from Wilmington!
Elder Lundquist is on his way to West Virginia, while I'm still here with my new companion, Elder Janiec from Highland, UT. He knows a lot of people from AF that I do, so that's pretty cool to have a companion who knows something about your hometown.
Well, first off I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving in Wilmington. I know that Elder Janiec and I can and will accomplish much good in furthering the Lord's work here. Winter just can't get enough of us, can it? We had great weather a few days ago but it has cooled off considerably since then, as I'm sure you've noticed.
Conference was absolutely amazing, I loved every single talk! There is nothing in all the world quite like General Conference. What a blessing it is to know that we have prophets and apostles, and that they will not lead us astray! I also sustain Elder Andersen in his new calling, I know that he will do very well. Every talk had something(s) in it for me, and I have a renewed commitment and enthusiasm to not only share the gospel, but to live it! It was also great to celebrate the 179th anniversary of the Church yesterday. It seems like so long ago, but it really hasn't been....and yet, look at how much it has grown and continues to grow. We also have the unique opportunity at this time of the year to be talking with people whose thoughts are, for most of them, turned to the Savior and His last week of mortality. I know that as we center our thoughts and actions on Jesus Christ, great things will happen.
I am so grateful for the Duty to God program, as well as Scouting. They prepare you for so many things, definitely a mission as well. I have seen how it has done that and will be forever grateful to you and friends, as well as leaders who helped shape me into who I have become. In fact, you are still shaping me, so I am eternally grateful for everything that has been done in my behalf.
Jumping back to Conference, I really liked Elder Perry's talk about member missionary work. I think it could serve as a standard here in helping the members to do just that. Their willingness and desire to share the gospel has definitely improved since I've been here, and I know it will continue to do so as we work in harmony. I pray for each of you to have similar experiences, so you can feel the joy that comes with bearing testimony of the restored gospel. I can still hardly believe that I have been out as long as I have, I'm at the point now where I wish I could have a chance to make up for those opportunities I missed. Oh well, I hope that future missionaries and members will be more bold than I was.
Also, I will FINALLY be sending home the latest pictures today, hope you all enjoy them as much as I did taking them! I ask for the blessings and love of the Lord to continue to shine on each of you, lighting a path that leads to true happiness. This Church is true, the Book of Mormon is the word of God, and most importantly, Jesus is the Christ and He LIVES!! So until next week, God be with you!!!!
Elder Lundquist is on his way to West Virginia, while I'm still here with my new companion, Elder Janiec from Highland, UT. He knows a lot of people from AF that I do, so that's pretty cool to have a companion who knows something about your hometown.
Well, first off I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving in Wilmington. I know that Elder Janiec and I can and will accomplish much good in furthering the Lord's work here. Winter just can't get enough of us, can it? We had great weather a few days ago but it has cooled off considerably since then, as I'm sure you've noticed.
Conference was absolutely amazing, I loved every single talk! There is nothing in all the world quite like General Conference. What a blessing it is to know that we have prophets and apostles, and that they will not lead us astray! I also sustain Elder Andersen in his new calling, I know that he will do very well. Every talk had something(s) in it for me, and I have a renewed commitment and enthusiasm to not only share the gospel, but to live it! It was also great to celebrate the 179th anniversary of the Church yesterday. It seems like so long ago, but it really hasn't been....and yet, look at how much it has grown and continues to grow. We also have the unique opportunity at this time of the year to be talking with people whose thoughts are, for most of them, turned to the Savior and His last week of mortality. I know that as we center our thoughts and actions on Jesus Christ, great things will happen.
I am so grateful for the Duty to God program, as well as Scouting. They prepare you for so many things, definitely a mission as well. I have seen how it has done that and will be forever grateful to you and friends, as well as leaders who helped shape me into who I have become. In fact, you are still shaping me, so I am eternally grateful for everything that has been done in my behalf.
Jumping back to Conference, I really liked Elder Perry's talk about member missionary work. I think it could serve as a standard here in helping the members to do just that. Their willingness and desire to share the gospel has definitely improved since I've been here, and I know it will continue to do so as we work in harmony. I pray for each of you to have similar experiences, so you can feel the joy that comes with bearing testimony of the restored gospel. I can still hardly believe that I have been out as long as I have, I'm at the point now where I wish I could have a chance to make up for those opportunities I missed. Oh well, I hope that future missionaries and members will be more bold than I was.
Also, I will FINALLY be sending home the latest pictures today, hope you all enjoy them as much as I did taking them! I ask for the blessings and love of the Lord to continue to shine on each of you, lighting a path that leads to true happiness. This Church is true, the Book of Mormon is the word of God, and most importantly, Jesus is the Christ and He LIVES!! So until next week, God be with you!!!!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Double the fun!
We've neglected to post the last couple of emails from Elder Livingston, so here is our humble attempt to make good...
From March 23rd, 2009 -
Dear Family,
It is wonderful to hear that you are happy and having spiritual experiences, and it has led to similar things for myself. The weather has taken a turn for the better here as spring is finally beginning to make everything greener, which has boosted spirits a lot. It makes it a lot easier to talk to people as well, especially when they are already outside. Had a couple cool things happen this past week: On Saturday we helped the Taylor's(members)haul some big logs out of a field, definitely a good workout. We've helped Bro.Taylor in the past with chopping wood and taking it to people in need, so I always love it when he calls us and asks us to come help him. Gets rid of a lot of stress, which is definitely normal for missionaries. Also, we were in this apartment complex getting a return appointment with an investigator, when these people we didn't know called us over to play basketball with them. Call it my-first-street-ball-experience-on-a-mission, it was a lot of fun. Kind of awkward in a suit coat though, can't wait 'till we get to take those off! Only two more weeks! Lastly, the priesthood brethren have been needing someone to play the piano in opening exercises, because our past a cappella experiences have been, well.....like a funeral march. I volunteered my services, and I don't think I've ever seen priesthood holders so excited to sing. So, thanks Mom for telling me to fine-tune my piano skills before I left, it's payed off several times.
And yes, I am jealous that you get to attend General Conference coming up, I'd give anything to go again. Oh well, I'm sure I will feel the Spirit anyway even if I'm not there in person, or even just in Utah. We're planning on teaching a lot about prophets in these next couple of weeks, and hopefully we can a decent amount of non-members, especially investigators, to attend a session or two. We've already committed all three of our investigators to go, so that should be a great experience for them. I'd have to say that Sunday and Monday are probably my favorite days of the week, at least since I've been on a mission. The reason for that is because so much tends to happen on those other days, and never exactly as you planned it, that it just drains me by the end of the week. It can be disheartening at times, but thank goodness for Church on Sunday's! These two days give me a chance to refuel, recharge, reflect, and in the case of sacrament meeting, renew those sacred covenants. I always get super-excited to go and teach after feeling the spirit at Church, as well as reading my e-mails from you and others. Too often I feel that missionaries do not take advantage of church meetings as an opportunity to not only become better acquainted with members, but more importantly, to set up appointments to go to their homes and teach the lessons from Preach My Gospel. Doing this will help the members see the need for them to share the gospel as well, and when you leave bold and direct commitments, they are far more likely to follow through on them. We can't forget to follow-up regularly either. Elder Ballard said once that when you sit down with members and help them set goals, commit them to a specific date whereby they will find someone for us, the missionaries, to teach.
A quote from President Monson at last summer's Mission President's Seminar caught my attention. He said, "There is just no substitute for a member-oriented proselyting program. Tracting will not substitute for it. Golden questions will not substitute for it. A member-oriented program is the key to success." In my callings as a ward missionary, it was, as you know, my responsibility to go into members' homes, teach them the lessons from Preach My Gospel, and help them set goals for them to find someone for missionaries to teach. Obviously, missionaries out in Utah have such large areas to cover that they are not able to help members create Family Mission Plans on a regular basis, so that responsibility was delegated to me and the other ward missionaries. Now, being out here in Ohio, and particularly in Wilmington where the Church is much smaller, I have quickly learned that the responsibility for teaching and committing members falls directly to full-time missionaries. This is a lot that's been on my mind, as you can see, but I just keep feeling that this area is about to really flourish; but I've come to the conclusion that it cannot be done without full member participation. I think I've mentioned recently of our branch's new plan for us to work with members to help achieve our goal of 20 lessons per week, and yesterday at church I spoke with several members who are very excited to start doing this. I am praying that this will turn out the way it's been designed to, and if anyone has suggestions for me I will gladly be open to them.
I have seen great blessings as I have returned to more simple explanations of Church doctrine, as I once did with those wonderful boys in Primary.
Well, I think I've emptied out my brain of everything I wanted to say, but I would like to quickly express appreciation to the Sam and Kim Kienow Family, the Kent and Carol Livingston Family, and also Grandpa Ray for their heartfelt letters which have made me so grateful to know of the support that I am receiving! I pray that the Lord will continue to bless each of you and watch over you, and also that opportunities to share the gospel may be granted to you. Oh, and Happy Spring Fever!!
From March 16th, 2009 -
Dear Family,
First off, I wanted to express my thanks to you for those little reminders you give me each week, it really does help. As I look back on the years before my mission, I lament at the wasted time and on my often grumbling attitude when it came to being reminded about something or being told to do something. Being on a mission and also having the unique opportunity to focus on the Savior each day has wrought some changes in my life, as you so accurately pointed out. The 2 hours I am given to study each day is so little that I wish it could be longer, but I've committed myself to making the most of it. Well anyway, I am glad to hear that spring is beginning to show itself out there, it's taking a bit longer than I would've liked in Wilmington. It IS supposed to be really nice for most of this week, so I'm anxious to see how many people will be outside for us to talk to. Much less awkward than going door-to-door and not knowing what to expect.
We didn't teach as many lessons this past week as we had planned for, but I feel comforted knowing we tried our hardest. I still feel that we are falling short of our potential as it relates to member missionary work, but I think the members are starting to see what we're asking of them. We'll be meeting with several different families this week, and we plan on setting some goals and extending some commitments. I've found out with any kind of goal or commitment that the stronger it is, the more likely the person will keep it and follow through on it. We are continuing to see results as we teach simple and clear doctrine, but the tough part is when we prepare a whole lesson plan and the appointment falls through. It definitely is frustrating at times, but we still do everything we can to use those doctrinal statements no matter where we might be.
Yesterday at Drake Coleman's home, we decided to go back to the beginning and teach about Joseph Smith and read from the pamphlet containing his testimony. We asked some very straightforward questions and received the answers we sought, and it was good because lately we've been concerned that Drake hasn't really been applying what he learns. He has a desire to be baptized and wants to continue learning, but he was in need of some extra motivation. We simply told him that everything we've taught him hinges on whether or not Joseph Smith saw God and Jesus Christ....everything! We committed him to read the pamphlet that evening, then go into a quiet, secluded place and pray earnestly for an answer. We plan to follow up with him on it, and we're anxiously awaiting the response he will give. On another bonus, we are also starting to teach Drake's new foster brother, Jason, who sat in on the lesson and told us he wanted to read the Book of Mormon and learn more about the Church. He's had a pretty rough life up to this point, so we are definitely looking forward to helping him make changes. Other than that, the work goes on.
A couple of funny experiences from this past week: First, We taught Kenny Ewing on Saturday, one of our new investigators from last week, and we asked him if he had prayed about the Book of Mormon. He told us that he had and that God told him to get new glasses so he can read it better, because his eyesight isn't very good! We all thought it was pretty funny, but I don't see anything wrong with THAT answer. The second one just happened this morning. Last night, Elder Lundquist made some chicken with biscuits, potatoes and gravy for both of us. We didn't have much time to eat it before bed, and this morning we discovered to our half-shock and half-laughter that Elder Lundquist left the oven on at 400 DEGREES!! I'd say we're pretty lucky but at the same time it's one of those things you have to laugh at. Definitely NOT going to do that again though! So anyway, things are going great out here, it's hard to believe this is the fourth week of the transfer already, and we plan on making the most of it! Hope you all have a wonderful week, and that the weather cooperates! :)
Love,
Elder Isaac Livingston
From March 23rd, 2009 -
Dear Family,
It is wonderful to hear that you are happy and having spiritual experiences, and it has led to similar things for myself. The weather has taken a turn for the better here as spring is finally beginning to make everything greener, which has boosted spirits a lot. It makes it a lot easier to talk to people as well, especially when they are already outside. Had a couple cool things happen this past week: On Saturday we helped the Taylor's(members)haul some big logs out of a field, definitely a good workout. We've helped Bro.Taylor in the past with chopping wood and taking it to people in need, so I always love it when he calls us and asks us to come help him. Gets rid of a lot of stress, which is definitely normal for missionaries. Also, we were in this apartment complex getting a return appointment with an investigator, when these people we didn't know called us over to play basketball with them. Call it my-first-street-ball-
And yes, I am jealous that you get to attend General Conference coming up, I'd give anything to go again. Oh well, I'm sure I will feel the Spirit anyway even if I'm not there in person, or even just in Utah. We're planning on teaching a lot about prophets in these next couple of weeks, and hopefully we can a decent amount of non-members, especially investigators, to attend a session or two. We've already committed all three of our investigators to go, so that should be a great experience for them. I'd have to say that Sunday and Monday are probably my favorite days of the week, at least since I've been on a mission. The reason for that is because so much tends to happen on those other days, and never exactly as you planned it, that it just drains me by the end of the week. It can be disheartening at times, but thank goodness for Church on Sunday's! These two days give me a chance to refuel, recharge, reflect, and in the case of sacrament meeting, renew those sacred covenants. I always get super-excited to go and teach after feeling the spirit at Church, as well as reading my e-mails from you and others. Too often I feel that missionaries do not take advantage of church meetings as an opportunity to not only become better acquainted with members, but more importantly, to set up appointments to go to their homes and teach the lessons from Preach My Gospel. Doing this will help the members see the need for them to share the gospel as well, and when you leave bold and direct commitments, they are far more likely to follow through on them. We can't forget to follow-up regularly either. Elder Ballard said once that when you sit down with members and help them set goals, commit them to a specific date whereby they will find someone for us, the missionaries, to teach.
A quote from President Monson at last summer's Mission President's Seminar caught my attention. He said, "There is just no substitute for a member-oriented proselyting program. Tracting will not substitute for it. Golden questions will not substitute for it. A member-oriented program is the key to success." In my callings as a ward missionary, it was, as you know, my responsibility to go into members' homes, teach them the lessons from Preach My Gospel, and help them set goals for them to find someone for missionaries to teach. Obviously, missionaries out in Utah have such large areas to cover that they are not able to help members create Family Mission Plans on a regular basis, so that responsibility was delegated to me and the other ward missionaries. Now, being out here in Ohio, and particularly in Wilmington where the Church is much smaller, I have quickly learned that the responsibility for teaching and committing members falls directly to full-time missionaries. This is a lot that's been on my mind, as you can see, but I just keep feeling that this area is about to really flourish; but I've come to the conclusion that it cannot be done without full member participation. I think I've mentioned recently of our branch's new plan for us to work with members to help achieve our goal of 20 lessons per week, and yesterday at church I spoke with several members who are very excited to start doing this. I am praying that this will turn out the way it's been designed to, and if anyone has suggestions for me I will gladly be open to them.
I have seen great blessings as I have returned to more simple explanations of Church doctrine, as I once did with those wonderful boys in Primary.
Well, I think I've emptied out my brain of everything I wanted to say, but I would like to quickly express appreciation to the Sam and Kim Kienow Family, the Kent and Carol Livingston Family, and also Grandpa Ray for their heartfelt letters which have made me so grateful to know of the support that I am receiving! I pray that the Lord will continue to bless each of you and watch over you, and also that opportunities to share the gospel may be granted to you. Oh, and Happy Spring Fever!!
From March 16th, 2009 -
Dear Family,
First off, I wanted to express my thanks to you for those little reminders you give me each week, it really does help. As I look back on the years before my mission, I lament at the wasted time and on my often grumbling attitude when it came to being reminded about something or being told to do something. Being on a mission and also having the unique opportunity to focus on the Savior each day has wrought some changes in my life, as you so accurately pointed out. The 2 hours I am given to study each day is so little that I wish it could be longer, but I've committed myself to making the most of it. Well anyway, I am glad to hear that spring is beginning to show itself out there, it's taking a bit longer than I would've liked in Wilmington. It IS supposed to be really nice for most of this week, so I'm anxious to see how many people will be outside for us to talk to. Much less awkward than going door-to-door and not knowing what to expect.
We didn't teach as many lessons this past week as we had planned for, but I feel comforted knowing we tried our hardest. I still feel that we are falling short of our potential as it relates to member missionary work, but I think the members are starting to see what we're asking of them. We'll be meeting with several different families this week, and we plan on setting some goals and extending some commitments. I've found out with any kind of goal or commitment that the stronger it is, the more likely the person will keep it and follow through on it. We are continuing to see results as we teach simple and clear doctrine, but the tough part is when we prepare a whole lesson plan and the appointment falls through. It definitely is frustrating at times, but we still do everything we can to use those doctrinal statements no matter where we might be.
Yesterday at Drake Coleman's home, we decided to go back to the beginning and teach about Joseph Smith and read from the pamphlet containing his testimony. We asked some very straightforward questions and received the answers we sought, and it was good because lately we've been concerned that Drake hasn't really been applying what he learns. He has a desire to be baptized and wants to continue learning, but he was in need of some extra motivation. We simply told him that everything we've taught him hinges on whether or not Joseph Smith saw God and Jesus Christ....everything! We committed him to read the pamphlet that evening, then go into a quiet, secluded place and pray earnestly for an answer. We plan to follow up with him on it, and we're anxiously awaiting the response he will give. On another bonus, we are also starting to teach Drake's new foster brother, Jason, who sat in on the lesson and told us he wanted to read the Book of Mormon and learn more about the Church. He's had a pretty rough life up to this point, so we are definitely looking forward to helping him make changes. Other than that, the work goes on.
A couple of funny experiences from this past week: First, We taught Kenny Ewing on Saturday, one of our new investigators from last week, and we asked him if he had prayed about the Book of Mormon. He told us that he had and that God told him to get new glasses so he can read it better, because his eyesight isn't very good! We all thought it was pretty funny, but I don't see anything wrong with THAT answer. The second one just happened this morning. Last night, Elder Lundquist made some chicken with biscuits, potatoes and gravy for both of us. We didn't have much time to eat it before bed, and this morning we discovered to our half-shock and half-laughter that Elder Lundquist left the oven on at 400 DEGREES!! I'd say we're pretty lucky but at the same time it's one of those things you have to laugh at. Definitely NOT going to do that again though! So anyway, things are going great out here, it's hard to believe this is the fourth week of the transfer already, and we plan on making the most of it! Hope you all have a wonderful week, and that the weather cooperates! :)
Love,
Elder Isaac Livingston
Monday, March 9, 2009
The Miracle(s) of Missionary Work
Dearest Family and Friends,
The Book of Mormon is the word of God! Seems like an odd way to start off a letter, but I see it more and more each day as I continue to learn the difference between "study" and "read." The Lord truly does prepare His children to accept it, and I am setting a goal for myself to be able to hand out at least one Book of Mormon per day to someone. We have so many in our apartment, and they don't belong there! It can be somewhat daunting trying to make suggestions to the senior companion, but I've mustered the courage and explained to each of them the need to get the Book of Mormon into peoples' hands, and not just simply tell them we'll bring one back some other day. We are bound to forget because we're so busy, so I always make sure I have some copies in my backpack and another in my coat pocket.
We had another great Zone Conference this past week, President Robbins focused on teaching simple and clear doctrine using the scriptures and Preach My Gospel. That divinely-inspired guide continues to amaze me, I can never get enough out of it! As I've followed the counsel of President Robbins, I've noticed more and more that Preach My Gospel doesn't talk about anything that we don't already know....in other words, it doesn't teach deep doctrine such as where in the world Kolob is located. Every time I pick it up, I think to myself, "This book was put together by prophets and apostles under the spirit of revelation, so it's almost like scripture!"
We too are stressing increased member involvement here, I think I told you last week about the plan we've come up with to do that. We have appointments in 4 or 5 members' homes this week, so it's a tremendous opportunity to help them set goals for referring their friends to us, and also a chance to show them that Preach My Gospel is not just for full-time missionaries. It tells each of us how to do missionary work, so members need not fear! From reading your letters, it sounds like the Lord is answering my prayers that you would have opportunities to share the gospel and bear testimony of it! And the continued increase in temple-building is evidence that the Lord is working to establish His Church throughout the world, even in Utah!
I do miss the daily drive past the Mt. Timpanogos Temple, but I have resolved in my heart that I will take greater advantage of it when I return. I would love to see a temple announced out here in Cincinnati, that would be a huge blessing to the members. They talk so frequently about how much the temple means to them, even though the nearest one is up in Columbus. As you may have heard, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (the OTHER M.T.C.) will be performing in Cincinnati in mid-June, we are looking to get tickets for people here. They came out here back in the summer of '07 and it went extremely well, the missionaries experienced great success as a result of that. So, as you can imagine, I am very much looking forward to seeing what it can produce this time around!
Exciting to hear that the Draper Temple open house was a good experience, and that Dee enjoyed it as well. That's interesting that she was baptized at age 8, I never could've guessed that. Best of luck to her as she takes the discussions at our home!
This week ended on a high note, we had a couple things happen that hadn't taken place in a while. First, we found ourselves a new investigator! His name is Kenny Ewing, an older African-American who lives out in Sabina. He let us right in when we started talking on his porch, and boy do I get excited when somebody lets us right in. My enthusiasm level goes WAY up, because you know how it can be when you're going door-to-door. You just want to start teaching as soon as you get inside, but I was able to bridle that for a little bit. We sat down and got acquainted with him, found out that he goes to the A.M.E. church out in Washington Court House. He asked us a question that set things up perfectly for the first lesson: "I've always wondered about this, but have never gotten an answer I was satisfied with. Where did all of these churches come from, and how did they get started?" I was thrilled, because what member of the Church wouldn't want to hear a question like that? We proceeded to teach a powerful first lesson, filled with simple, doctrinal statements and soul-searching questions. At the end of the lesson he told us that people from other churches have come by in hopes of getting him to join their denomination, but they've never been able to peak his interest. He then looked right at us and said that he was truly interested in learning more about our message, and he was especially excited to start reading from the Book of Mormon. We have a return appointment with him this weekend, and our goal is to commit him to come to Church this upcoming Sunday. So that was the first great thing that happened, and the second was that we received a member referral! I love those! It was for an apartment complex run by the members' sister, and it's literally full of potential investigators. We'll be having a discussion there tonight, so to me anyway the setting will feel almost like the one Brigham Young was in when he felt the Spirit after someone bore a pure, simple testimony. "A Man without Eloquence," was what the video was called, I remember Dad showing that during a family night once. President Robbins showed it to us again at Zone Conference. So anyway, I am hoping the opportunity to testify presents itself tonight, and I will not shy away when it comes.
Other than that, the work continues to move on despite the hardships experienced by thousands here. In time, I believe that the Lord will pour out His spirit upon the people and they will come to a knowledge of the truth. Thank you as always for the unending support each of you provide in my behalf, I can feel the strength of your prayers. It revitalizes my desire to teach the gospel to others, as I once did when I taught Primary. In addition, a momentous upswing in the weather has helped us be able to talk to more people, this past Saturday it was 75 degrees! I definitely see that the Lord is putting my faith to the test, as He has done on many other occasions. The key is to not lose hope and exercise my faith, for God will always open the way. Have a great week, may the Lord be with you each day and give you opportunities to bear testimony
The Book of Mormon is the word of God! Seems like an odd way to start off a letter, but I see it more and more each day as I continue to learn the difference between "study" and "read." The Lord truly does prepare His children to accept it, and I am setting a goal for myself to be able to hand out at least one Book of Mormon per day to someone. We have so many in our apartment, and they don't belong there! It can be somewhat daunting trying to make suggestions to the senior companion, but I've mustered the courage and explained to each of them the need to get the Book of Mormon into peoples' hands, and not just simply tell them we'll bring one back some other day. We are bound to forget because we're so busy, so I always make sure I have some copies in my backpack and another in my coat pocket.
We had another great Zone Conference this past week, President Robbins focused on teaching simple and clear doctrine using the scriptures and Preach My Gospel. That divinely-inspired guide continues to amaze me, I can never get enough out of it! As I've followed the counsel of President Robbins, I've noticed more and more that Preach My Gospel doesn't talk about anything that we don't already know....in other words, it doesn't teach deep doctrine such as where in the world Kolob is located. Every time I pick it up, I think to myself, "This book was put together by prophets and apostles under the spirit of revelation, so it's almost like scripture!"
We too are stressing increased member involvement here, I think I told you last week about the plan we've come up with to do that. We have appointments in 4 or 5 members' homes this week, so it's a tremendous opportunity to help them set goals for referring their friends to us, and also a chance to show them that Preach My Gospel is not just for full-time missionaries. It tells each of us how to do missionary work, so members need not fear! From reading your letters, it sounds like the Lord is answering my prayers that you would have opportunities to share the gospel and bear testimony of it! And the continued increase in temple-building is evidence that the Lord is working to establish His Church throughout the world, even in Utah!
I do miss the daily drive past the Mt. Timpanogos Temple, but I have resolved in my heart that I will take greater advantage of it when I return. I would love to see a temple announced out here in Cincinnati, that would be a huge blessing to the members. They talk so frequently about how much the temple means to them, even though the nearest one is up in Columbus. As you may have heard, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (the OTHER M.T.C.) will be performing in Cincinnati in mid-June, we are looking to get tickets for people here. They came out here back in the summer of '07 and it went extremely well, the missionaries experienced great success as a result of that. So, as you can imagine, I am very much looking forward to seeing what it can produce this time around!
Exciting to hear that the Draper Temple open house was a good experience, and that Dee enjoyed it as well. That's interesting that she was baptized at age 8, I never could've guessed that. Best of luck to her as she takes the discussions at our home!
This week ended on a high note, we had a couple things happen that hadn't taken place in a while. First, we found ourselves a new investigator! His name is Kenny Ewing, an older African-American who lives out in Sabina. He let us right in when we started talking on his porch, and boy do I get excited when somebody lets us right in. My enthusiasm level goes WAY up, because you know how it can be when you're going door-to-door. You just want to start teaching as soon as you get inside, but I was able to bridle that for a little bit. We sat down and got acquainted with him, found out that he goes to the A.M.E. church out in Washington Court House. He asked us a question that set things up perfectly for the first lesson: "I've always wondered about this, but have never gotten an answer I was satisfied with. Where did all of these churches come from, and how did they get started?" I was thrilled, because what member of the Church wouldn't want to hear a question like that? We proceeded to teach a powerful first lesson, filled with simple, doctrinal statements and soul-searching questions. At the end of the lesson he told us that people from other churches have come by in hopes of getting him to join their denomination, but they've never been able to peak his interest. He then looked right at us and said that he was truly interested in learning more about our message, and he was especially excited to start reading from the Book of Mormon. We have a return appointment with him this weekend, and our goal is to commit him to come to Church this upcoming Sunday. So that was the first great thing that happened, and the second was that we received a member referral! I love those! It was for an apartment complex run by the members' sister, and it's literally full of potential investigators. We'll be having a discussion there tonight, so to me anyway the setting will feel almost like the one Brigham Young was in when he felt the Spirit after someone bore a pure, simple testimony. "A Man without Eloquence," was what the video was called, I remember Dad showing that during a family night once. President Robbins showed it to us again at Zone Conference. So anyway, I am hoping the opportunity to testify presents itself tonight, and I will not shy away when it comes.
Other than that, the work continues to move on despite the hardships experienced by thousands here. In time, I believe that the Lord will pour out His spirit upon the people and they will come to a knowledge of the truth. Thank you as always for the unending support each of you provide in my behalf, I can feel the strength of your prayers. It revitalizes my desire to teach the gospel to others, as I once did when I taught Primary. In addition, a momentous upswing in the weather has helped us be able to talk to more people, this past Saturday it was 75 degrees! I definitely see that the Lord is putting my faith to the test, as He has done on many other occasions. The key is to not lose hope and exercise my faith, for God will always open the way. Have a great week, may the Lord be with you each day and give you opportunities to bear testimony
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