 |
| Shores of Lake Steilacoom |
Time has passed quickly. Yet, in some ways, it seems like forever ago that we were at home in Vernal.
In the hour I have before going to a meeting, I thought I'd just reflect and mention a few of the things that we've learned in the last year.
This certainly not a complete list. Nor is it in any particular order of importance.
Our lives revolved around ourselves, our family, the community and Ward we lived in. As important as each of these is, we've also learned to love and appreciate many other good people. The members here are amazing. They are strong, articulate, and accepting.
There are many good people (our brothers and sisters) who are searching for religious truth. The worth of souls is great -- both in terms of time, money, and effort spent to save even one soul. Wonderful things happen when we accept one another, appreciate differences and diversity, and love without judging. Even a Catholic priest can be touched by the love and spirit of missionaries. We've been touched and changed by the strength of new converts.
Missionaries work hard, especially the young ones. They have commit to a rigorous daily schedule. Much is expected of them. They face opposition, discouragement, and mean people often. Yet, they rise to the challenge with optimism, faith, and love.
Faith is the power. Love is the motive. Obedience is the price. The Spirit is the key. The Restoration is the message. Members are the means. Christ is the reason. Baptism is the reward. Joy is the reward.
Contention extinguishes the Spirit-quickly. Life is not good without the Spirit. Having the Spirit and maintaining good relationships are more important than proving ourselves right.
I am more keenly aware of my sins and weaknesses. Yet, I am more hopeful that I can conquer through daily repentance and the merits, mercy and grace of Jesus Christ and His Atonement.
Preach My Gospel is an inspired manual for missionary work and for tuning in to the basics of the gospel.
Mission Presidents (and their wives) have an enormous responsibility for the spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being of hundreds of missionaries. They attend a lot of meetings and conduct A LOT of interviews. They get asked a lot of unusual questions. Mission President wives wear many hats: nurse, psychologist, mother, teacher, and more. Mission Presidents certainly receive inspiration and direction from God.
The Lord qualifies those whom He calls. We are given abilities beyond our own natural capacities. We can do hard things. There is much joy in serving. Prayer is important. The power of prayer is real.
We miss spending time with our family on a regular basis. Facetime was invented for grandparents. We are grateful when we get to talk to loved ones on the phone, too. Letters in the mail from family & friends are treasures. Young missionaries love letters, too.
Even while serving, we face challenges, trials, and heartache. Life doesn’t always play out like we planned; I miss my mother – a lot. But there is much hope and comfort in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. God never abandons. He is always there to help us through whatever life throws at us. Everything will be OK.
It's been an extraordinary year. Life is good, incredibly good.
No comments:
Post a Comment