Hello everyone!
I was transferred to Lenexa, Kansas. It's a pretty area, and full of
rich people. Holy Moses, I am excited to soften some hearts. I'm
serving with Elder Torrico. He's from Layton. We are the Zone Leaders
over the Lenexa Stake. It's exciting! I love the missionaries!
I didn't get to return back to NKC to see PJ get baptized, but I'm so
glad he finally did. I taught him for 4 months. His dad is next, so
I'll be sure to make it out to see him get dunked.
We are working with some great people.
I have seen so many miracles this week throughout the zone, and in
our individual companionship. This zone has shown up to work. I am
full of enthusiasm about the ward, and the stake. What a terrific
opportunity we have to be missionaries! I was talking with Elder
Michaelson on transfer day, and he said something that was so
profound. "Obedience has been, and always will be the key to a strong
area, no matter the circumstance, you will have success" when I got to
Lenexa I thought to myself "where is the hood? I have never seen
houses that look like mansions before, this is going to be tough". The
Lord then gave me a solemn rebuke. "You fear no man, remember? Be
obedient, and success will come in time." It was a fire that burnt so
strongly within me. After I repented of my doubt, I set out to find a
family that weekend. Our goal was 4 new investigators and we didn't
even have one. We tore up and down the ward roster, PMF, LA, and we
knocked the doors surrounding the houses. Thursday night at dinner,
after a nice message and an invitation to hear the discussions again;
they accepted, and were excited to meet with us Monday night. I
blurted out "yes! And Elder Torrico and I will find a new investigator
to bring to your beautiful home!" I could see the immediate trust in
the couples eyes. I knew that it was the spirit, and from that point
on we set out determined to find someone to bring. This turned into
faith. We exercised our faith, and at the peak of Sunday nights
proselyting we found 10 new investigators, and a young couple to bring
to the lesson tonight. I have a testimony that the Lord is at the
helm, he is the source of this work, we are the instruments. Obedience
really does bring miracles. I have seen the other end, I have been
with many companions that murmur at exactness, they quit too easily,
something as simple as being obedient to little commandments really
does set you up for success. It's so simple, yet so looked over, and
so unbelieved.
I am so grateful for the work I have to do, it seems like time is
moving too fast, I have so much I need to accomplish! I might just
extend!
I can't get enough!
P.S mom I got my pants and boots. Thank you for shipping my pants!
Love you!
Elder Greenburg
Missouri Independence Mission
Lenexa Kansas Area
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Hello everyone.
Yesterday after church we came back to the apartment to take a lunch
break, and change out of our suits. Near the end of lunch I really
wanted to go back to the church, I felt like something was missing. I
followed the prompting to return. As we were sitting in the foyer it
was about 2:15pm the YSA ward was in sacrament. I sat there and
pondered my reasoning for returning. I look up, and there's our
progressing investigator. He told us the day before that he wasn't
going to make it, because of work. We went in and sat down, my recent
convert was there. After the meeting I talked to him, he said he was
going to be ordained a priest today, and that if I had time he would
like me to be the one to ordain him. What an honor. What an
experience. The Lord literally directed me to that moment in time. I
would have not been there if it wasn't for those distinct impressions.
Here's another one. (Mom don't read this one)
I was visiting an investigator the other day in a rough area. As we
were walking toward the door. I looked over and saw a woman sitting in
a mini van; she had her hood up. My first inclination was to go talk
to her, but I felt a strong impression to keep walking. I thought
about it again. I felt weird that the spirit would prompt me to keep
walking. Am I commanded to talk with everyone? But the reasoning came
much later. We invited the investigator to come to the perspective
Elders class. At about 6:50 we called him and he answered and said
that he wasn't able to make it because he was on lock down, the police
had swarmed his apartment complex. We came by after the class to see
if everything was alright, there were no cops. He said "yeah, did you
see that mini van that was parked there?" I said I did. Apparently,
the women in the mini van had a man in the back seat that was wanted
for Meth trafficking. He was armed and dangerous, and the women was
covering for him while he waited for a dealer. Everything about the
incident replayed in my head, the get away vehicle, the woman's facial
expressions. The Lord protected me and my companion that day. Many
people think we are cops, and if we would have approached that van, I
don't know what would have happened.
Went to KCK this week, I was kicking it in the 12th dangerous city in
the US, and proselyting in the 21st dangerous neighborhood in the US.
I didn't know this at the time, but the Lord protected me so I could
help some Elders find a new investigator. We had a great time, pretty
friendly people up in the ghetto!
We were driving home one night and passed a skate park that had been
lite up! Me and my comp were like "let's go talk to those dudes". So
we went and started to talk about the Book of Mormon, but first we had
to slap fives. Then we told them about a popular skater in our ward
from the 90's his name is Ryan Minnick. They thought it was so cool
that we were normal people. Haha! They didn't want our Book of Mormon,
but they said they might come to church. They said that they are
there every day, so we could come back and teach them. We took some
pictures.
This week I listened to a 3 year old little girl recite the 1st
article of faith. "We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His
Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost." Yes, even a 3 year old can
understand that the Trinity is false, and is nowhere in the
scriptures; Because it is is not true. This brings me to my next
point, that even the children of our church have more knowledge of the
gospel than most Christian pastors and ministers. It is so simple that
even a child can understand, yet it is degraded, and picked apart day
after day "as a thing of naught". How easily can we be misguided by
the precepts of man? The cunning craftiness of the adversaries spin on
things. Why do some choose not to be faithful? Why are covenants
forgotten about? The story of Lehi's dream in the Book of Mormon
explains this concept quite simply. "And after they had partaken of
the fruit of the tree they did cast their eyes about as if they were
ashamed. And I also cast my eyes round about, and beheld, on the other
side of the river of water, a great and spacious building; and it
stood as it were in the air, high above the earth. And it was filled
with people, both old and young, both male and female; and their
manner of dress was exceedingly fine; and they were in the attitude of
mocking and pointing their fingers towards those who had come at and
were partaking of the fruit. And after they had tasted of the fruit
they were ashamed, because of those that were scoffing at them; and
they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost." (1 Nephi 8:25-27)
i think about those who fell away from what they knew to be true,
because of mans understanding of the doctrine that has been set forth
by a prophet of God. If they truly had a testimony of the prophet,
they would have not been ashamed, but would have stood ready to pull
through the fight of truth and right.
How is this resolved? Well, we need to hold firmly to "the iron rod".
The Book of Mormon, the scriptures, the words of the living prophets.
As soon as we make the commitment to do these things, we will have
much more faith in what the prophet is saying, because we know the
doctrine, we know gods attributes because they are listed plainly and
clearly in the scriptures. I know a man that has studied the
scriptures every day of his life for the last 30 years. He has not
missed a day, and whenever I ask him a question he opens the
scriptures points to the verse, and recites the line of the cross
references. He is truly rooted in the doctrine. Those who do this will
be happy, and the questions that arise will be answered by "the power
of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost you can know the
truth of all things" (Moroni 10:3-5)
I bare witness of the reality of the Doctrine of Christ. It is the
only true and living doctrine of the father and of the son and of the
Holy Ghost. I know that as we take time to really study the doctrine,
we can become firm in our faith, and we will be unshaken.
Yesterday after church we came back to the apartment to take a lunch
break, and change out of our suits. Near the end of lunch I really
wanted to go back to the church, I felt like something was missing. I
followed the prompting to return. As we were sitting in the foyer it
was about 2:15pm the YSA ward was in sacrament. I sat there and
pondered my reasoning for returning. I look up, and there's our
progressing investigator. He told us the day before that he wasn't
going to make it, because of work. We went in and sat down, my recent
convert was there. After the meeting I talked to him, he said he was
going to be ordained a priest today, and that if I had time he would
like me to be the one to ordain him. What an honor. What an
experience. The Lord literally directed me to that moment in time. I
would have not been there if it wasn't for those distinct impressions.
Here's another one. (Mom don't read this one)
I was visiting an investigator the other day in a rough area. As we
were walking toward the door. I looked over and saw a woman sitting in
a mini van; she had her hood up. My first inclination was to go talk
to her, but I felt a strong impression to keep walking. I thought
about it again. I felt weird that the spirit would prompt me to keep
walking. Am I commanded to talk with everyone? But the reasoning came
much later. We invited the investigator to come to the perspective
Elders class. At about 6:50 we called him and he answered and said
that he wasn't able to make it because he was on lock down, the police
had swarmed his apartment complex. We came by after the class to see
if everything was alright, there were no cops. He said "yeah, did you
see that mini van that was parked there?" I said I did. Apparently,
the women in the mini van had a man in the back seat that was wanted
for Meth trafficking. He was armed and dangerous, and the women was
covering for him while he waited for a dealer. Everything about the
incident replayed in my head, the get away vehicle, the woman's facial
expressions. The Lord protected me and my companion that day. Many
people think we are cops, and if we would have approached that van, I
don't know what would have happened.
Went to KCK this week, I was kicking it in the 12th dangerous city in
the US, and proselyting in the 21st dangerous neighborhood in the US.
I didn't know this at the time, but the Lord protected me so I could
help some Elders find a new investigator. We had a great time, pretty
friendly people up in the ghetto!
We were driving home one night and passed a skate park that had been
lite up! Me and my comp were like "let's go talk to those dudes". So
we went and started to talk about the Book of Mormon, but first we had
to slap fives. Then we told them about a popular skater in our ward
from the 90's his name is Ryan Minnick. They thought it was so cool
that we were normal people. Haha! They didn't want our Book of Mormon,
but they said they might come to church. They said that they are
there every day, so we could come back and teach them. We took some
pictures.
This week I listened to a 3 year old little girl recite the 1st
article of faith. "We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His
Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost." Yes, even a 3 year old can
understand that the Trinity is false, and is nowhere in the
scriptures; Because it is is not true. This brings me to my next
point, that even the children of our church have more knowledge of the
gospel than most Christian pastors and ministers. It is so simple that
even a child can understand, yet it is degraded, and picked apart day
after day "as a thing of naught". How easily can we be misguided by
the precepts of man? The cunning craftiness of the adversaries spin on
things. Why do some choose not to be faithful? Why are covenants
forgotten about? The story of Lehi's dream in the Book of Mormon
explains this concept quite simply. "And after they had partaken of
the fruit of the tree they did cast their eyes about as if they were
ashamed. And I also cast my eyes round about, and beheld, on the other
side of the river of water, a great and spacious building; and it
stood as it were in the air, high above the earth. And it was filled
with people, both old and young, both male and female; and their
manner of dress was exceedingly fine; and they were in the attitude of
mocking and pointing their fingers towards those who had come at and
were partaking of the fruit. And after they had tasted of the fruit
they were ashamed, because of those that were scoffing at them; and
they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost." (1 Nephi 8:25-27)
i think about those who fell away from what they knew to be true,
because of mans understanding of the doctrine that has been set forth
by a prophet of God. If they truly had a testimony of the prophet,
they would have not been ashamed, but would have stood ready to pull
through the fight of truth and right.
How is this resolved? Well, we need to hold firmly to "the iron rod".
The Book of Mormon, the scriptures, the words of the living prophets.
As soon as we make the commitment to do these things, we will have
much more faith in what the prophet is saying, because we know the
doctrine, we know gods attributes because they are listed plainly and
clearly in the scriptures. I know a man that has studied the
scriptures every day of his life for the last 30 years. He has not
missed a day, and whenever I ask him a question he opens the
scriptures points to the verse, and recites the line of the cross
references. He is truly rooted in the doctrine. Those who do this will
be happy, and the questions that arise will be answered by "the power
of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost you can know the
truth of all things" (Moroni 10:3-5)
I bare witness of the reality of the Doctrine of Christ. It is the
only true and living doctrine of the father and of the son and of the
Holy Ghost. I know that as we take time to really study the doctrine,
we can become firm in our faith, and we will be unshaken.
Friday, January 15, 2016
Hello everyone.
This week was interesting. We hit single digit temperatures and nobody
would open their doors. Even some members were like "hmmm probs not"
lol that was an interesting story. One that I refuse to tell,
forgiveness is real, and so is the sleet and snow that my companion
and I walked through for 2 1/2 miles. I can't even imagine the 1,300
mile trek that the saints pulled all the way to Utah.
On a more positive note, we had a good week as far as our progressing
family is concerned. The 11 year old told us all about Lehis dream,
And many other Book of Mormon passages. This kid is a golden! He will
probably serve a mission some day. His dad, (the gangsta) would serve
if he knew about it sooner. He has cut smoking cold turkey, got
married on the fly, and is now changing jobs, so that he can feel the
peace and assurance that the gospel of Jesus Christ has to offer him,
through the gift of baptism, and the Holy Ghost, in the true church of
Jesus Christ. Sometimes we take it for granted, and I realize now, as
I see someone who hungers after it. He wants it more than anything in
this world. The covenant we make with God, is in fact out of this
world.
I have to tell you a few of my fun tracking stories. Because those are
what make the mission worth it. So we came across this Southern
Baptist women. She opens the door, and begins to tell us we are wrong
and are far from Christians, because at our funerals we pray over our
dead at the grave side. (She was referring to the dedicatory prayer
offered by priesthood authority) clearly mis understanding the
doctrine, and purpose of it. Anyway, this woman carries on randomly
about different things about her church, and begins to try and convert
us. She said: "if you haven't had the chance to accept Jesus in this
life, then you're going to hell" By this point, the spirit sank into
my heart with a deep conviction of sorrow for this poor woman. How
blind, how dark. I said: "oh, how sad for those babies that didn't get
baptized, or the woman that had no idea about Jesus Christ, but
suddenly died in a car accident. As someone who believes in a just
God, I don't believe that the theory you have presented is very just
and true." She said "oh really? How do you figure?" "1Cor 15:29 Else
what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise
not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?" Then it got
weird and she told us that Obama is the anti Christ because she saw it
in a movie once. That's when all seriousness left.
I stuck a Q tip too far in my ear this morning and now I can't hear.
Love ya!
Elder Greenburg
Missouri Independence Mission
Kansas City Missouri Area
This week was interesting. We hit single digit temperatures and nobody
would open their doors. Even some members were like "hmmm probs not"
lol that was an interesting story. One that I refuse to tell,
forgiveness is real, and so is the sleet and snow that my companion
and I walked through for 2 1/2 miles. I can't even imagine the 1,300
mile trek that the saints pulled all the way to Utah.
On a more positive note, we had a good week as far as our progressing
family is concerned. The 11 year old told us all about Lehis dream,
And many other Book of Mormon passages. This kid is a golden! He will
probably serve a mission some day. His dad, (the gangsta) would serve
if he knew about it sooner. He has cut smoking cold turkey, got
married on the fly, and is now changing jobs, so that he can feel the
peace and assurance that the gospel of Jesus Christ has to offer him,
through the gift of baptism, and the Holy Ghost, in the true church of
Jesus Christ. Sometimes we take it for granted, and I realize now, as
I see someone who hungers after it. He wants it more than anything in
this world. The covenant we make with God, is in fact out of this
world.
I have to tell you a few of my fun tracking stories. Because those are
what make the mission worth it. So we came across this Southern
Baptist women. She opens the door, and begins to tell us we are wrong
and are far from Christians, because at our funerals we pray over our
dead at the grave side. (She was referring to the dedicatory prayer
offered by priesthood authority) clearly mis understanding the
doctrine, and purpose of it. Anyway, this woman carries on randomly
about different things about her church, and begins to try and convert
us. She said: "if you haven't had the chance to accept Jesus in this
life, then you're going to hell" By this point, the spirit sank into
my heart with a deep conviction of sorrow for this poor woman. How
blind, how dark. I said: "oh, how sad for those babies that didn't get
baptized, or the woman that had no idea about Jesus Christ, but
suddenly died in a car accident. As someone who believes in a just
God, I don't believe that the theory you have presented is very just
and true." She said "oh really? How do you figure?" "1Cor 15:29 Else
what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise
not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?" Then it got
weird and she told us that Obama is the anti Christ because she saw it
in a movie once. That's when all seriousness left.
I stuck a Q tip too far in my ear this morning and now I can't hear.
Love ya!
Elder Greenburg
Missouri Independence Mission
Kansas City Missouri Area
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Uuuhhhhhh
Hey everyone!
This week was pretty good, we didn't have much success it felt like,
but sometimes the mission is like a furnace. But in this case we
walked for miles, and froze our butts off.
Got hit on, chased, and picked up by a cop this week. (He's a member)
lol it was a great scene. Then we chased a deer around the woods. We
found a short cut, and this deer was bedded down by some trees. 10
feet from us. So was chased it for like 10 minutes. Yeeesssss.
The Ralo Family is doing great, finally reading the Book of Mormon.
Love you!
Elder Greenburg
Missouri Independence Mission
Kansas City Missouri Area
This week was pretty good, we didn't have much success it felt like,
but sometimes the mission is like a furnace. But in this case we
walked for miles, and froze our butts off.
Got hit on, chased, and picked up by a cop this week. (He's a member)
lol it was a great scene. Then we chased a deer around the woods. We
found a short cut, and this deer was bedded down by some trees. 10
feet from us. So was chased it for like 10 minutes. Yeeesssss.
The Ralo Family is doing great, finally reading the Book of Mormon.
Love you!
Elder Greenburg
Missouri Independence Mission
Kansas City Missouri Area
Thursday, December 31, 2015
December 28, 2015
Hello Everyone,
This week was good. It was nice to see everyone on Friday. Kind of
weird seeing everyone all growed up N' stuff. Christmas was great, we
got to visit some families in the ward. I have never seen such great
people come together to help out a neighbor than I have during this
Christmas season. The ward provided food, clothing, blankets, and toys
for a family that we are teaching that was in desperate need. The fun
isn't over either, we are going by today to set up a couple of beds. I
previously had hated this Christmas season, and in some instances I
still do. But my favorite part, and one that i didn't quite recognize
before, is that of charity; the pure love of Christ. Oh how sweet the
taste of the spirit, when people come together to serve one another. I
pray that these members continue their service to those who are in
need even after this season of giving is over.
This one lady called me Satan, and then slammed the door. I have never
laughed so hard in my life. It was weird because she had a sign in her
yard that said "Mary CHRISTmas" implying that she wants to remember
the mother Mary, and Christ this season. Yet, when I knocked on her
door, and my name tag has the lords name on it, she denied me, and
judged me "as a thing of naught". Classic. Anyway.
I know that this phrase is used so much in the church, and I often
take it for granted. But "when you step outside yourself, you will be
much happier" I'm here to testify of the truthfulness of that
statement. The only way to change, is through service. The only way to
receive an increase of Gods love, is through service. It also goes the
other way, if you don't let someone serve you, you are also denying
the love of God. Thankfully the Lord knows the desires of our hearts,
or we'd all be in hell by now.
It finally started to snow here too. It only took all month. I have a
feeling it's going to be a long winter this year, probably go into
June. Hopefully not.
Love you all, and hope all is well back home!
I hit a cat the other day. Smoked it!
This week was good. It was nice to see everyone on Friday. Kind of
weird seeing everyone all growed up N' stuff. Christmas was great, we
got to visit some families in the ward. I have never seen such great
people come together to help out a neighbor than I have during this
Christmas season. The ward provided food, clothing, blankets, and toys
for a family that we are teaching that was in desperate need. The fun
isn't over either, we are going by today to set up a couple of beds. I
previously had hated this Christmas season, and in some instances I
still do. But my favorite part, and one that i didn't quite recognize
before, is that of charity; the pure love of Christ. Oh how sweet the
taste of the spirit, when people come together to serve one another. I
pray that these members continue their service to those who are in
need even after this season of giving is over.
This one lady called me Satan, and then slammed the door. I have never
laughed so hard in my life. It was weird because she had a sign in her
yard that said "Mary CHRISTmas" implying that she wants to remember
the mother Mary, and Christ this season. Yet, when I knocked on her
door, and my name tag has the lords name on it, she denied me, and
judged me "as a thing of naught". Classic. Anyway.
I know that this phrase is used so much in the church, and I often
take it for granted. But "when you step outside yourself, you will be
much happier" I'm here to testify of the truthfulness of that
statement. The only way to change, is through service. The only way to
receive an increase of Gods love, is through service. It also goes the
other way, if you don't let someone serve you, you are also denying
the love of God. Thankfully the Lord knows the desires of our hearts,
or we'd all be in hell by now.
It finally started to snow here too. It only took all month. I have a
feeling it's going to be a long winter this year, probably go into
June. Hopefully not.
Love you all, and hope all is well back home!
I hit a cat the other day. Smoked it!
Poor Kitty Cat!
December 21, 2015
Hello Everyone,
So our homie got marred finally! He's so ready for baptism! I have
seen this guy go from thug, to good man in 3 months! I can hardly wait
to see him dressed in white!
We walked a lot this week, and we built some good character, hopefully
we lost a bit of weight too. We found out we have a weight room at our
apartment complex, we have been using that every morning. But that
doesn't matter, it's about the work! I have gotten so sick of worrying
about myself, that I want to move on to others. I feel much happier
when I am serving others. It's discouraging at times, but it's much
better than not doing anything at all.
I spoke in sacrament meeting this Sunday. I talked about Christmas,
and how it's helped me build a testimony of Christ. I thought about
that one for a minute, usually I can ponder all morning and then get
up and speak like no problem. But this one took me a few days to
ponder. I thought a lot about the spirit I felt in the MTC, when I was
there during Christmas time. I spoke on the "power, and gift" Christ
stemmed from the scripture in Moroni 7:16 I normally don't write out
my talks, I just go by the spirit. But I felt inspired to write it
home today. (here's the talk written out) "for behold the spirit of
Christ is given to every man that he may know good from evil,
wherefore I show unto you the way to judge; for everything which
inviteth to do good, to persuade to believe in Christ is sent forth by
the power and gift of Christ..." I pose this question "how often on a
typical week do you use the power and gift of Christ in your life?"
Some of you used this gift today as you partook of the sacrament and
renewed your covenants. I learned in the MTC that you can have
Christmas every day! You can be an example of the believers every day!
It is simply living the gospel year round, instead of seasonally. I
see many reach out around Christmas and Easter time to worship God,
and rely on Christ. If we only did that our eternal progression would
be a lot slower, and we wouldn't have as many opportunities to grow!
Doing that, we lose the ability to use the full effect of the
Atonement. Let us use it every day! The spirit of Christ can be a sure
foundation, it IS, a sure foundation whereon if men build they cannot
fall. (Heleman 5:12) if I learned anything from the last year on my
mission it's that I'm tired of running between hell and heaven. I sure
know the straight and narrow, Brothers and Sisters I've crossed it
back and forth many times. My hope and prayer is that I stay on
heavens path, and that I grab others and take them with me. Running as
fast as I can, until I have finished the race. It takes a little
endurance, and a lot of nourishment from the almighty. If I feel the
heat of the fire of affliction blazing behind me instead of in front
of me, I know I'm in the right direction, and that I shouldn't stop.
Christ was born in a little town called Bethlehem in the city of
David. The birth of the Lord opened a whole new cannon, this was the
fulfilling of the prophets. From the fall of Adam, men and women have
awaited anxiously for this gift. Isn't it nice to live after the
sacrifice of the Christ, rather than before it? We are fortunate
enough that we don't have to wait for this gift to be had. It's right
here for us to use every single day! How many times do we fuss over
messing up, yet deny the gift of Christ that he could help us if we
would repent? How many times have we sat in anguish and sorrow trying
to fix things on our own, and realizing that it can't be done? It's
like trying to turn a bolt with your fingers instead of using the
wrench that is so easily available.
I invite all of you to act on the impressions that you felt today in
this meeting, from the spirit as these other great missionaries and I
have spoken on such an important subject.
My testimony of Christ continues to grow every day, as I see the
countenance of those I teach change as soon as the spirit of Christ
pierces their hearts. It is my favorite part of missionary service, it
is a love that I have found, it is the gospel of Christ. I bare
witness of the reality of that. For those of you who are not yet
members of this church, I invite you to study it out, and pray to know
if this is true. I did this, and I came to know by the Holy Ghost that
it was. I know him, I love him, and he loves me. He love you, he has
called you to serve those who's hands hang so helplessly low. May we
do so with humble hearts, and sure foundations. In the name of Jesus
Christ, amen.
I will be skyping on Christmas at 6:30pm (my time) mom, I can also
FaceTime you if that's easier. Let me know what you want to do.
Love y'all.
So our homie got marred finally! He's so ready for baptism! I have
seen this guy go from thug, to good man in 3 months! I can hardly wait
to see him dressed in white!
We walked a lot this week, and we built some good character, hopefully
we lost a bit of weight too. We found out we have a weight room at our
apartment complex, we have been using that every morning. But that
doesn't matter, it's about the work! I have gotten so sick of worrying
about myself, that I want to move on to others. I feel much happier
when I am serving others. It's discouraging at times, but it's much
better than not doing anything at all.
I spoke in sacrament meeting this Sunday. I talked about Christmas,
and how it's helped me build a testimony of Christ. I thought about
that one for a minute, usually I can ponder all morning and then get
up and speak like no problem. But this one took me a few days to
ponder. I thought a lot about the spirit I felt in the MTC, when I was
there during Christmas time. I spoke on the "power, and gift" Christ
stemmed from the scripture in Moroni 7:16 I normally don't write out
my talks, I just go by the spirit. But I felt inspired to write it
home today. (here's the talk written out) "for behold the spirit of
Christ is given to every man that he may know good from evil,
wherefore I show unto you the way to judge; for everything which
inviteth to do good, to persuade to believe in Christ is sent forth by
the power and gift of Christ..." I pose this question "how often on a
typical week do you use the power and gift of Christ in your life?"
Some of you used this gift today as you partook of the sacrament and
renewed your covenants. I learned in the MTC that you can have
Christmas every day! You can be an example of the believers every day!
It is simply living the gospel year round, instead of seasonally. I
see many reach out around Christmas and Easter time to worship God,
and rely on Christ. If we only did that our eternal progression would
be a lot slower, and we wouldn't have as many opportunities to grow!
Doing that, we lose the ability to use the full effect of the
Atonement. Let us use it every day! The spirit of Christ can be a sure
foundation, it IS, a sure foundation whereon if men build they cannot
fall. (Heleman 5:12) if I learned anything from the last year on my
mission it's that I'm tired of running between hell and heaven. I sure
know the straight and narrow, Brothers and Sisters I've crossed it
back and forth many times. My hope and prayer is that I stay on
heavens path, and that I grab others and take them with me. Running as
fast as I can, until I have finished the race. It takes a little
endurance, and a lot of nourishment from the almighty. If I feel the
heat of the fire of affliction blazing behind me instead of in front
of me, I know I'm in the right direction, and that I shouldn't stop.
Christ was born in a little town called Bethlehem in the city of
David. The birth of the Lord opened a whole new cannon, this was the
fulfilling of the prophets. From the fall of Adam, men and women have
awaited anxiously for this gift. Isn't it nice to live after the
sacrifice of the Christ, rather than before it? We are fortunate
enough that we don't have to wait for this gift to be had. It's right
here for us to use every single day! How many times do we fuss over
messing up, yet deny the gift of Christ that he could help us if we
would repent? How many times have we sat in anguish and sorrow trying
to fix things on our own, and realizing that it can't be done? It's
like trying to turn a bolt with your fingers instead of using the
wrench that is so easily available.
I invite all of you to act on the impressions that you felt today in
this meeting, from the spirit as these other great missionaries and I
have spoken on such an important subject.
My testimony of Christ continues to grow every day, as I see the
countenance of those I teach change as soon as the spirit of Christ
pierces their hearts. It is my favorite part of missionary service, it
is a love that I have found, it is the gospel of Christ. I bare
witness of the reality of that. For those of you who are not yet
members of this church, I invite you to study it out, and pray to know
if this is true. I did this, and I came to know by the Holy Ghost that
it was. I know him, I love him, and he loves me. He love you, he has
called you to serve those who's hands hang so helplessly low. May we
do so with humble hearts, and sure foundations. In the name of Jesus
Christ, amen.
I will be skyping on Christmas at 6:30pm (my time) mom, I can also
FaceTime you if that's easier. Let me know what you want to do.
Love y'all.
December 14, 2015
Hello Everyone,
I am still in North Kansas City, serving with Elder Roberts. He's from
Hiland, Utah. He went to AF high school. He's a funny guy, and I think
we will do well together.
This new transfer is going to be a challenge for me. We just got put
on car rotation, it's starting to get cold, and we have a baptism to
prepare for next weekend and the Investigator lives on the other side
of the area. I have been working on keeping a good attitude even
though the circumstances aren't ideal. The Lord has taught me many
lessons, but I feel like this one will be a big one for me to learn. I
feel like I have been in this area forever! I'll be here for 6 Months
when the transfer is through! That's a long time, but I have loved
every minute of it.
My testimony of Obedience has grown a lot this week. I enjoy the
spirit when I practice self control and obedience to the commandments
and expectations the Lord has set for me. I have known how important
it is to be obedient. It really is the Law of Heaven. President Vest
has always taught, that no matter what teaching skills you think you
lack, if you're obedient, the Spirit will testify and people will
change. I know that it's true. I've seen it happen out here. I pray
every day that the Lord will help me be more obedient. I fear the
ending result of disobedience. I see missionaries around me struggle
through homesickness, dark times, discouragement, and so forth. But I
often ask "what have you sacrificed for the Lord today? What small
sins have you chosen to let go of? What happens when you choose to
disobey?" I ask myself that each day, and it has changed my
perspective. It has helped me turn outward, it has helped me focus on
what matters most. "The most important commandment you need to focus
on is the one that you struggle to keep right now. When you have
mastered that, move on to the next one."--Harold B. Lee.
The question that I often ask myself, and I think about it a great
deal is "what are you willing to do, to be my disciple?" Often times,
I find myself in a man hole preaching the gospel to construction
workers, getting my shirt all dirty, and my shoes all scuffed up. But
at the end of the day, I can say within myself. "I have followed his
spirit, I have done his work, and I will begin again tomorrow in
carrying out this gospel, no matter what circumstances,
discouragement, or excuses seem to get in my way, if I cancel out the
noise and tune in to the spirit, I will know what to do, where to go,
and what I should teach." Following this pattern I have found that I
don't need to ask "what should we do now?" Because I know that the
Lord has placed in my path a whole field that is white already to
harvest.
I know the Lord. I know what he expects of me as his representative. I
love him, I pray that others can find him. I pray that I can take his
gospel to all those who need it. I know that he is the Christ, and
that his grace is sufficient for all men. I too have been strengthened
by the Lord, I know he lives. If I am better than I was yesterday than
it is enough. He is the beginning and the end, alpha and omega. The
author of all righteousness. The mighty God, the price of peace. I
testify of the Restored Gospel. I know that Joseph Smith opened up the
doors of this dispensation, the Book of Mormon is evidence of that. He
did see God the father and Jesus Christ, he did receive the priesthood
which binds families together forever, and he has given all these
things, suffered all manner of afflictions, so that if we exercise our
faith in him, repent, honor and obey his covenants, we can be saved in
the kingdom of God. He suffered for all that they might not suffer.
This I know with all my heart, and soul.
Love you,
I am still in North Kansas City, serving with Elder Roberts. He's from
Hiland, Utah. He went to AF high school. He's a funny guy, and I think
we will do well together.
This new transfer is going to be a challenge for me. We just got put
on car rotation, it's starting to get cold, and we have a baptism to
prepare for next weekend and the Investigator lives on the other side
of the area. I have been working on keeping a good attitude even
though the circumstances aren't ideal. The Lord has taught me many
lessons, but I feel like this one will be a big one for me to learn. I
feel like I have been in this area forever! I'll be here for 6 Months
when the transfer is through! That's a long time, but I have loved
every minute of it.
My testimony of Obedience has grown a lot this week. I enjoy the
spirit when I practice self control and obedience to the commandments
and expectations the Lord has set for me. I have known how important
it is to be obedient. It really is the Law of Heaven. President Vest
has always taught, that no matter what teaching skills you think you
lack, if you're obedient, the Spirit will testify and people will
change. I know that it's true. I've seen it happen out here. I pray
every day that the Lord will help me be more obedient. I fear the
ending result of disobedience. I see missionaries around me struggle
through homesickness, dark times, discouragement, and so forth. But I
often ask "what have you sacrificed for the Lord today? What small
sins have you chosen to let go of? What happens when you choose to
disobey?" I ask myself that each day, and it has changed my
perspective. It has helped me turn outward, it has helped me focus on
what matters most. "The most important commandment you need to focus
on is the one that you struggle to keep right now. When you have
mastered that, move on to the next one."--Harold B. Lee.
The question that I often ask myself, and I think about it a great
deal is "what are you willing to do, to be my disciple?" Often times,
I find myself in a man hole preaching the gospel to construction
workers, getting my shirt all dirty, and my shoes all scuffed up. But
at the end of the day, I can say within myself. "I have followed his
spirit, I have done his work, and I will begin again tomorrow in
carrying out this gospel, no matter what circumstances,
discouragement, or excuses seem to get in my way, if I cancel out the
noise and tune in to the spirit, I will know what to do, where to go,
and what I should teach." Following this pattern I have found that I
don't need to ask "what should we do now?" Because I know that the
Lord has placed in my path a whole field that is white already to
harvest.
I know the Lord. I know what he expects of me as his representative. I
love him, I pray that others can find him. I pray that I can take his
gospel to all those who need it. I know that he is the Christ, and
that his grace is sufficient for all men. I too have been strengthened
by the Lord, I know he lives. If I am better than I was yesterday than
it is enough. He is the beginning and the end, alpha and omega. The
author of all righteousness. The mighty God, the price of peace. I
testify of the Restored Gospel. I know that Joseph Smith opened up the
doors of this dispensation, the Book of Mormon is evidence of that. He
did see God the father and Jesus Christ, he did receive the priesthood
which binds families together forever, and he has given all these
things, suffered all manner of afflictions, so that if we exercise our
faith in him, repent, honor and obey his covenants, we can be saved in
the kingdom of God. He suffered for all that they might not suffer.
This I know with all my heart, and soul.
Love you,
 |
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