Maybe this is a little more than you wanted but here it is.
Thoughts: I like the words of Elder M. Russell Ballard in his book Our Search for Happiness, "In the mission, weaknesses become strengths, challenges become opportunities, trials become triumphs, and adversity becomes an adventure in the service of the Lord". The mission is awesome, I especially like "challenges become opportunities" it is not just us that have the challenges but our investigators too. We both have challenges, maybe not in the same perspective, and they become opportunitys to better our lives, strengthen our faith and testimony, come closer to our Heavenly Father, and helping our family relationships. Of course, some challenges are a little bigger and tougher to have but they ALL, no matter what it is, will do those things I just mentioned. I love having these challenges too because not only does it help me but it brings another child of God to the truth. The mission is awesome and fun and yes a little challenging. I also like the quote "The mission is the hardes thing in your life... if you aren't obedient" and "if you are almost obedient... you almost get the blessings". So look at the challenges (in life too) as opportunities and be obedient and just relax... we have the promise of the help of God. The best kind there is.
Experiences: Well I have had a lo of good, funny, happy, awesome, sad, confused, annoying, and frustrating experiences. But that´s just part of the mission. I have had a lot of experiences where I have gotten to see people change their lives, a lot where people just yell at us, a lot where they invite us in to just fight with us, a lot where the people are so close to their baptism but they just cant accept one thing or give up something, and a lot of them have to do with the wonderful book we believe to be the words of God, The Book of Mormon. Here is an experience I had with that true book. Cecilia, an investigator, was also taking studies from the Jehovah´s Witnesses (we didnt know this at the time) and she would tell them about us and the Book of Mormon. Then one night she saw us pass by and chased us down (literally). She told us that she had been reading the book and also talking with the Jehovah´s Witnesses, she told us that they just bashed on the book and told her not to read it. But then she said, "But I just feel so good when I read it". Then she said she knew it was true and also the church was and we baptized her a week later. It was awesome, I love that Book.
Testimony: Well to start the Testimony, I know the church is true, now more than ever. I know Joseph Smith was/is a prophet of God and that he saw our Brother and Savior Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father. I know that this is the correct organization for the church with a living prophet in Thomas S. Monson, in the 12 apostles, and seventies. I know that we literally have the power of God in the priesthood and if we live worthily to have it and use it we can work miracles. I know that Jesus Christ lives and he is my older brother and that my Heavenly Father loves me. I know that what I am doing here in El Triunfo (tree-oon-foe) ;) is a great and worthy cause. I am helping better these peoples lives and trying to strengthen the 10 active members that we have. But now looking at it, they have also strengthened me, and that is an awesome thing about this gospel. I know the Book of Mormon is true and if we all try to apply the teachings and councils of that book we will have a better life, more faith, and a stronger testimony of the gospel. I cant believe it has already been one year, before you all know it I will be here on the stand giving my homecoming talk. I love you all and miss you. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Mom now this is where you bear your testimony ;P hehehehehe
Love,
Bud
2 comments:
And that is the kind of letter that makes the whole thing amazingly worth the sacrifice! Love this letter!
What an AMAZING kid you've raised! I'm sure he's changing many people's lives-including mine. Thanks for sharing! :)
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