Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Now We Are All Set
Dear Sister Bassett,
Another miracle that's happening.
This Sunday we are having a baptism for an investigator named Conrad. We were going to have him baptized a few months ago, but his mom had a bunch of concerns that we needed to cover. Most of her concern came from not knowing what a lot of stuff meant and needed a lot of clarification. She herself is a convert of about a year, but still had some concerns. She received a lot of help with the book : True to the Faith. A simple but great book that helped her understand a lot of the church doctrine. Yesterday, Elder Porter did the baptismal interview, and now we are all set.
Thank you for your hard work,
Love Elder Thomas
_____
**January 19th
an update on Conrad
Conrad is doing good. He is really motivated to serve a mission. He had some concerns before his baptism about that, but during his receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, he was given counsel in regards to his mission. I never have seen a bigger grin on his face.
Another miracle that's happening.
This Sunday we are having a baptism for an investigator named Conrad. We were going to have him baptized a few months ago, but his mom had a bunch of concerns that we needed to cover. Most of her concern came from not knowing what a lot of stuff meant and needed a lot of clarification. She herself is a convert of about a year, but still had some concerns. She received a lot of help with the book : True to the Faith. A simple but great book that helped her understand a lot of the church doctrine. Yesterday, Elder Porter did the baptismal interview, and now we are all set.
Thank you for your hard work,
Love Elder Thomas
_____
**January 19th
an update on Conrad
Conrad is doing good. He is really motivated to serve a mission. He had some concerns before his baptism about that, but during his receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, he was given counsel in regards to his mission. I never have seen a bigger grin on his face.
Monday, December 28, 2009
VC Miracle
Dear Sis Bassett,
Just wanted to share this VC miracle with you.
There was a lady who came in today who wanted to hear the Christus narration. I thought for sure that she was a member, but as I talked to her, I realized that she wasn't, so I sat down, and started talking to her more. She said that this morning, when she woke up, the first thing that came to her mind even before she opened her eyes was, "Go to the temple." She said that she didn't know why, but that she had come. She said, "They have a zebra in one of the nativities from South Africa, maybe that's why I needed to come in--to see that." In my mind, I replied, "Oh sista, it's a lot more than the zebra!" She said that her friend gave her a Book of Mormon, and she had been to church with him, but that she was still confused about some things. So I gave her the first lesson and when I taught about authority, her eyes really lit up, and she understood. I answered some of her questions, and we looked up scriptures in the Book of Mormon (she had hers with her), and we had a great chat. I was a little sad becuase she declined missionaries even after I promised blessings, and she felt the Spirit, but she said that she has a meeting with the bishop on Sunday, and that she would pray about having the missionaries over before then.
It was so neat to be an instrument in the Lord's hands as she had followed the prompting to come into the VC. She's going to get baptized!
Thank you so much for all that you do, Sis Bassett! You are awesome!
Love,
Sis Fonbuena
Just wanted to share this VC miracle with you.
There was a lady who came in today who wanted to hear the Christus narration. I thought for sure that she was a member, but as I talked to her, I realized that she wasn't, so I sat down, and started talking to her more. She said that this morning, when she woke up, the first thing that came to her mind even before she opened her eyes was, "Go to the temple." She said that she didn't know why, but that she had come. She said, "They have a zebra in one of the nativities from South Africa, maybe that's why I needed to come in--to see that." In my mind, I replied, "Oh sista, it's a lot more than the zebra!" She said that her friend gave her a Book of Mormon, and she had been to church with him, but that she was still confused about some things. So I gave her the first lesson and when I taught about authority, her eyes really lit up, and she understood. I answered some of her questions, and we looked up scriptures in the Book of Mormon (she had hers with her), and we had a great chat. I was a little sad becuase she declined missionaries even after I promised blessings, and she felt the Spirit, but she said that she has a meeting with the bishop on Sunday, and that she would pray about having the missionaries over before then.
It was so neat to be an instrument in the Lord's hands as she had followed the prompting to come into the VC. She's going to get baptized!
Thank you so much for all that you do, Sis Bassett! You are awesome!
Love,
Sis Fonbuena
Sunday, December 27, 2009
One of our new elders, Elder Kearn, told us that after he had received his call, he ran into Elder Perry near the SLC temple at conference time. Elder Perry talked with him about his mission and told him to use The Book of Mormon with the words, "The Book of Mormon is still our best missionary". We are seeing that again and again! Tonight, the assistants came by to share some miracles that relate to The Book of Mormon.
They were stopping by a house to follow up on a conversation they had had with a family. They were very kind and respectful, but said they weren't interested. Elder Diaz thanked them and said a few more words and then turned to Elder Coffman. Elder Coffman had been feeling ill and hadn't been able to focus. When Elder Diaz turned to him, all he could think to do was to offer a Book of Mormon. That led to a few more questions and an opportunity to bear a testimony about the restoration and The Book of Mormon. The mother's heart softened and she asked the elders to come back on Tuesday after she had a chance to read more about it.
The elders left feeling good about the visit when they saw a family walking down the street pushing a little cart. It was getting dark and when they called out a hello to the family, the family started crossing the street. They were worried they had frightened the family, so they went a little closer and just said they wanted to share something with them and started talking about the pass along card. The group was a single mother with her 5 young children. The had moved from Chicago and she was doing her best. She had heard a little about the church and was interested in starting up again to learn more. Elder Diaz was able to testify to her about the importance of families and how they could be strengthened. He comes from a family of 5 raised by a single mother. They struck a cord and will be going back to talk to her later this week.
And the last one, they received a phone call from the Kimball zone leaders. While on exchanges, Elder Diaz was out working with the elders there. As Elder Young contacted one investigator outside his apartment building, Elder Harrison started talking with another family across the way. Elder Diaz turned and saw a man and went to go and talk to him. They had a nice conversation, but the man wasn't interested. Before they were finished, a woman approached them and listened for awhile. When they were done talking, she asked Elder Diaz if he was mormon. She then said she knew some things. Elder Diaz talked to her about the restoration and The Book of Mormon. He offered her a copy and she gratefully accepted. She said she would read it in the next week or two. Elder Diaz doubted she would be able to read it that quickly, but still gave her the book and the invitation to learn more. When the zone leaders went back to follow up a week and a half later, she had finished The Book of Mormon and wanted to be baptized, because she knew it was true. She still had some things to learn, so they taught her for a few more weeks and she was just baptized.
The elders left feeling good about the visit when they saw a family walking down the street pushing a little cart. It was getting dark and when they called out a hello to the family, the family started crossing the street. They were worried they had frightened the family, so they went a little closer and just said they wanted to share something with them and started talking about the pass along card. The group was a single mother with her 5 young children. The had moved from Chicago and she was doing her best. She had heard a little about the church and was interested in starting up again to learn more. Elder Diaz was able to testify to her about the importance of families and how they could be strengthened. He comes from a family of 5 raised by a single mother. They struck a cord and will be going back to talk to her later this week.
And the last one, they received a phone call from the Kimball zone leaders. While on exchanges, Elder Diaz was out working with the elders there. As Elder Young contacted one investigator outside his apartment building, Elder Harrison started talking with another family across the way. Elder Diaz turned and saw a man and went to go and talk to him. They had a nice conversation, but the man wasn't interested. Before they were finished, a woman approached them and listened for awhile. When they were done talking, she asked Elder Diaz if he was mormon. She then said she knew some things. Elder Diaz talked to her about the restoration and The Book of Mormon. He offered her a copy and she gratefully accepted. She said she would read it in the next week or two. Elder Diaz doubted she would be able to read it that quickly, but still gave her the book and the invitation to learn more. When the zone leaders went back to follow up a week and a half later, she had finished The Book of Mormon and wanted to be baptized, because she knew it was true. She still had some things to learn, so they taught her for a few more weeks and she was just baptized.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Dear Sister Bassett
We found this new investigator named Chris. A very good kid who is 18 years old. His girlfriend introduced him to the church. During the first lesson, we invited him to be baptized when he received an answer that the gospel was true. He said then that he was more compatible with us than with his girlfriend's hearing ward (these are ASL missionaries and cover the deaf branch). He prayed about The Book of Mormon, and yesterday, he really wanted to meet with us. So last night we had a lesson with him. We had a concern that he was only doing this for his girlfriend, and during the lesson his mom had the same concern and wanted him to study about the church for a year then go ahead and get baptized. But he also told us that he isn't doing it for her but is truly interested. Then when his paster from his old church told him that he can't join the Mormon church because, "They belive that Jesus and Satan are the same person," he was a little offended. We explained that they (Jesus and Satan) were in fact 2 seperate people and even explained about the war in heaven to help him understand. We don't usually teach that but that's what the Spirit said to do. It was what he needed to understand, and it resolved his concern. We set up a baptismal date for the 9th.
We also set up another date for the 3rd! We are going to do it right after church so more people will be there and we will let everyone know.
Thank you for all your hard work
Love Elder Thomas
We found this new investigator named Chris. A very good kid who is 18 years old. His girlfriend introduced him to the church. During the first lesson, we invited him to be baptized when he received an answer that the gospel was true. He said then that he was more compatible with us than with his girlfriend's hearing ward (these are ASL missionaries and cover the deaf branch). He prayed about The Book of Mormon, and yesterday, he really wanted to meet with us. So last night we had a lesson with him. We had a concern that he was only doing this for his girlfriend, and during the lesson his mom had the same concern and wanted him to study about the church for a year then go ahead and get baptized. But he also told us that he isn't doing it for her but is truly interested. Then when his paster from his old church told him that he can't join the Mormon church because, "They belive that Jesus and Satan are the same person," he was a little offended. We explained that they (Jesus and Satan) were in fact 2 seperate people and even explained about the war in heaven to help him understand. We don't usually teach that but that's what the Spirit said to do. It was what he needed to understand, and it resolved his concern. We set up a baptismal date for the 9th.
We also set up another date for the 3rd! We are going to do it right after church so more people will be there and we will let everyone know.
Thank you for all your hard work
Love Elder Thomas
Monday, December 21, 2009
Dear Sis Bassett,
So this is a rushed version, and there are probably a ton of typos, but here is a miracle in progress! We'll write more next week.
Nancy and her girls are getting baptized!! This has been such a wonderful thing to ask for something so specific and see it come to pass! Our first big hurdle was that they had to come to Church yesterday. We had set the baptismal date with them, and we told them that if they would read the BoM and pray every day, that they would be able to get baptized on Dec 26. They were all so excited about it, and they have such incredible faith! We visited them a couple of days later, and they had read a chapter from the BoM each day, and they had been praying in Spanish so that their father, who is a Jehova's Witness, and doesn't understand and want them to be baptized, could hear them pray. He loves to hear them pray, and he has told them that he is glad that they do.
Then on Sunday, we fasted with the ZL's that they would be able to go to church and that they would be able to be baptized. We didn't know how it was going to happen, because we hadn't had a chance to get a Spanish sister over to talk to the father, but we knew that they needed to go. When we called Nancy that morning, she said that Rudolfo, her husband, had a car apt that he had to go to right before they would need to go to church. We prayed that all would go well. We continued to fast, and right after we broke our fast, we checked our phone, and we had a message from the Elders telling us that Nancy had been at church!
And today, they had their baptismal interivews, and they loved it, and they are so excited that they are going to get baptized! They announced it at the ward, and the primary teachers, ect said they are all going to be there.
Our next big hurdle is to make sure her husband is OK that they are going to get baptized. When Nancy told him that they had gone to church, he was upset, but he still let us come in when we visited them later that night. When we talked to Nancy about him today, she said that she has a peaceful feeling that he will calm down, that he will be okay with it. She said that even if he doesn't want to be baptized, that she feels that he will at least come with them to see what it is all about, and that he will even come to church every once in a while. Nancy has such wonderful faith, that I'm sure he will come around. She also had a dream that he came to the Christmas lights and that he was talking to a missionary. I am still praying that this dream comes to pass in the next couple of weeks. Her story is still a work in progress, but I know that it will continue to progress.
Thanks for all you do!
Sister Fonbuena
**Here's a note from her District Leader, Elder Thomas, about the same family:
The sisters have a great one. (Sister Dorius and Sister Fonbuena) They are teaching a family. The dad hasn't been willing to let her or the kids get baptized but they really want to. After much prayer and fasting the sisters gave them a date for this Saturday. I had the honnor of interviewing the Mother who really wants to be baptized. She explained that her husband is unwilling. I told her the story of Alma the older, a wicked priest who repented then taught lots of people. They (Alma & his people) escasped then got captured again, but through their faith they were delivered. I felt the Holy Ghost testify to her as I promissed that her husband will allow them to be baptized. I know he will allow it.
Thank you for all your hard work
Love Elder Thomas
So this is a rushed version, and there are probably a ton of typos, but here is a miracle in progress! We'll write more next week.
Nancy and her girls are getting baptized!! This has been such a wonderful thing to ask for something so specific and see it come to pass! Our first big hurdle was that they had to come to Church yesterday. We had set the baptismal date with them, and we told them that if they would read the BoM and pray every day, that they would be able to get baptized on Dec 26. They were all so excited about it, and they have such incredible faith! We visited them a couple of days later, and they had read a chapter from the BoM each day, and they had been praying in Spanish so that their father, who is a Jehova's Witness, and doesn't understand and want them to be baptized, could hear them pray. He loves to hear them pray, and he has told them that he is glad that they do.
Then on Sunday, we fasted with the ZL's that they would be able to go to church and that they would be able to be baptized. We didn't know how it was going to happen, because we hadn't had a chance to get a Spanish sister over to talk to the father, but we knew that they needed to go. When we called Nancy that morning, she said that Rudolfo, her husband, had a car apt that he had to go to right before they would need to go to church. We prayed that all would go well. We continued to fast, and right after we broke our fast, we checked our phone, and we had a message from the Elders telling us that Nancy had been at church!
And today, they had their baptismal interivews, and they loved it, and they are so excited that they are going to get baptized! They announced it at the ward, and the primary teachers, ect said they are all going to be there.
Our next big hurdle is to make sure her husband is OK that they are going to get baptized. When Nancy told him that they had gone to church, he was upset, but he still let us come in when we visited them later that night. When we talked to Nancy about him today, she said that she has a peaceful feeling that he will calm down, that he will be okay with it. She said that even if he doesn't want to be baptized, that she feels that he will at least come with them to see what it is all about, and that he will even come to church every once in a while. Nancy has such wonderful faith, that I'm sure he will come around. She also had a dream that he came to the Christmas lights and that he was talking to a missionary. I am still praying that this dream comes to pass in the next couple of weeks. Her story is still a work in progress, but I know that it will continue to progress.
Thanks for all you do!
Sister Fonbuena
**Here's a note from her District Leader, Elder Thomas, about the same family:
The sisters have a great one. (Sister Dorius and Sister Fonbuena) They are teaching a family. The dad hasn't been willing to let her or the kids get baptized but they really want to. After much prayer and fasting the sisters gave them a date for this Saturday. I had the honnor of interviewing the Mother who really wants to be baptized. She explained that her husband is unwilling. I told her the story of Alma the older, a wicked priest who repented then taught lots of people. They (Alma & his people) escasped then got captured again, but through their faith they were delivered. I felt the Holy Ghost testify to her as I promissed that her husband will allow them to be baptized. I know he will allow it.
Thank you for all your hard work
Love Elder Thomas
Saturday, December 19, 2009
A Week of Miracles
Dear President and Sister Bassett,
Merry Christmas. This week was a week of miracles for us. To be short in writing, it was a week that taught me a lot about acting in faith. Elder Kunz and I are striving (and struggling, believe me) to work from the moment we get up in order to receive the Spirit and to teach with it in order to invite those the Lord has put in our path to act and thus receive a witness from God to the truth of these things. We set three more baptismal dates, were able to see the Lord open the way to help an investigator come to church, receive power and guidance through prayer and fasting, and many, many other miracles. I want to keep this short and my time is up, but I want you to know that I am grateful for you and your diligent service to the Lord. I love your family and pray for you. Have a merry Christmas!
Elder R
**I love these missionaries! They are so supportive of us, how can we not love them? Elder M is especially humble-can't you just feel it?
Merry Christmas. This week was a week of miracles for us. To be short in writing, it was a week that taught me a lot about acting in faith. Elder Kunz and I are striving (and struggling, believe me) to work from the moment we get up in order to receive the Spirit and to teach with it in order to invite those the Lord has put in our path to act and thus receive a witness from God to the truth of these things. We set three more baptismal dates, were able to see the Lord open the way to help an investigator come to church, receive power and guidance through prayer and fasting, and many, many other miracles. I want to keep this short and my time is up, but I want you to know that I am grateful for you and your diligent service to the Lord. I love your family and pray for you. Have a merry Christmas!
Elder R
**I love these missionaries! They are so supportive of us, how can we not love them? Elder M is especially humble-can't you just feel it?
Friday, December 18, 2009
Welcome!
Two new couples arrived in the mission. The office staff helped our family welcome them to the mission. Both couples will serve on the Navajo Reservation. The couple below are the Beck's and the picture below that is of the Hugo's (with Sister Willis and I). It was a pleasant surprise to receive not just one but two couples to serve on the reservation. We haven't had that since we've served here. A miracle. They are all eager to begin. Sister Beck Is Navajo and explained some of the native american art work we have around the mission home.
Look at those kids doing the dishes. They're so good!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
A Miracle for the Mothers Out There!
We found lots more people to teach this week. One is a girl named IZY. She is awesome and is from Serbia. She played on Serbia's national basketball team as a 16 year old. She lives with members and came to school her senior year so she could go to a good college here in America afterwards with a little basketball in college. But recently, she got denied eligibility. It's really been tough on her. (sound familiar?) The Lord sure prepares us to help others pre- mission. So, I related very well and was able to help her see that she needed this in her life.
The story of how we got her to listen is a miracle in it's self.
We work at the Christmas Lights at the temple and go around smiling and asking members if they know of anyone we can help and potential members if they would be willing to let us come over and teach them. I had talked to hundreds of people all night; mostly youth, because it was a mutual night. I had gotten tons of refferals and many others to accept missionaries, but none mattered as much to me as the experience with Izy.
Isadora had found out earlier that day that she had been denied to play her lifelong sport of basketball that year. She was down and out and was really depressed. But a wonderful youth in the ward, Mary, invited her out to go to the Christmas Lights with her that night. Izy said no because she was down. Mary insisted and came over and picked her up. Isadora had felt the spirit before while she came to church, but had never had any interest in learning more until that night. I was able to talk to a group of 15 kids. I gathered them together in a semi cirlce to invite them to hear our message or provide a reference. Then I realized Izy was there. (I had met her at church before.) That night as I felt prompted, I was able to invite Izy to learn more by getting to know her and making a friendship, teaching her a short principle of the gospel, and testifying of its truth. The noise of the crowd seemed to fade, and it seemed as if the entire group of kids was praying she would say yes. I asked her how she felt at church and right then around that beautiful temple. She said in her accent "Good." I told her that was the Holy Ghost testifying that this was what God wanted her to do. She said yes, and we taught her that Sunday. She has currently read over 20 pages of The Book of Mormon and is loving it. She also said she would be baptized when she knew it was true. All of this was because one good friend of Izy's from church insisted on inviting her to something she wouldn't have gone to on her own.
Isadora is the only one in her family that could help them recieve the gospel at this time. Thousands might receive the gospel because of these lessons.
May we all be a little more bold and brave to share the gospel with our friends and those we love. It made a difference for Izy.
love elder jenkins!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Her Favorite Song
Sister Bassett
This is a miracle that happened while I was on exchanges with Elder Kelly. We talked to the Relief Society President and asked her who we could go and visit. She gave us the name and address of a lady who hadn't been to church in awhile. We had been told that she wasn't very receptive, so we decided to ring the doorbell and sing a Christmas song. We did and she opened the door smiling and happy, so the song worked. We talked for a little while, and she told us her conversion story which was cool. Once we were done talking, Elder Kelly asked her if we could sing her favorite song for her. She told us no, because it would make her cry. She never did tell us her favorite song. We decided to just chose one to sing. Elder Kelly flipped open his hymn book to "I Stand All Amazed" right as we started singing she started to cry. The tears flowed. That was her favorite song. It was a great miracle. Her heart had been softened, and she allowed us to set up a time to come by and teach the whole family. I can't wait to start it. That is one of the many miracles we have seen as a result of the Mission Fast. It is still producing miracles. Thank you so much for everything you do for all of us, Sister Bassett. If I can do anything for you just let me know. Have a great week!!
Elder Miller
This is a miracle that happened while I was on exchanges with Elder Kelly. We talked to the Relief Society President and asked her who we could go and visit. She gave us the name and address of a lady who hadn't been to church in awhile. We had been told that she wasn't very receptive, so we decided to ring the doorbell and sing a Christmas song. We did and she opened the door smiling and happy, so the song worked. We talked for a little while, and she told us her conversion story which was cool. Once we were done talking, Elder Kelly asked her if we could sing her favorite song for her. She told us no, because it would make her cry. She never did tell us her favorite song. We decided to just chose one to sing. Elder Kelly flipped open his hymn book to "I Stand All Amazed" right as we started singing she started to cry. The tears flowed. That was her favorite song. It was a great miracle. Her heart had been softened, and she allowed us to set up a time to come by and teach the whole family. I can't wait to start it. That is one of the many miracles we have seen as a result of the Mission Fast. It is still producing miracles. Thank you so much for everything you do for all of us, Sister Bassett. If I can do anything for you just let me know. Have a great week!!
Elder Miller
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
A Tender Mercy
Sister Bassett
All I can really say is that we are still getting more and more miracles. It's so amazing. And it's always at the opportune moment. This weekend we had all our baptism dates drop, just due to problems that will take a while to overcome. It's just really hard. But just yesterday we had a tender mercy of the Lord. We had a lesson with a man named Caesar. It was a good lesson, and at the end he asked us a question, "How long does it take before I can get baptized?" It was a shocker. I just wanted to smile and shout with joy. It's like music to all missionaries ears, but I kept my composure, and we explanied the process. Then we extended an invitation to be baptized on the 26th of Dec. And he willingly accepted. He has come to church for weeks before, and is already living all the commandments, so it goes to show that there really are people out there who have been and are being prepared to recieve the restored gospel, we just have to do our part and find them. And that is just one of the miricles that we recived yesterday,
Elder Gleaves and Elder Phillips
All I can really say is that we are still getting more and more miracles. It's so amazing. And it's always at the opportune moment. This weekend we had all our baptism dates drop, just due to problems that will take a while to overcome. It's just really hard. But just yesterday we had a tender mercy of the Lord. We had a lesson with a man named Caesar. It was a good lesson, and at the end he asked us a question, "How long does it take before I can get baptized?" It was a shocker. I just wanted to smile and shout with joy. It's like music to all missionaries ears, but I kept my composure, and we explanied the process. Then we extended an invitation to be baptized on the 26th of Dec. And he willingly accepted. He has come to church for weeks before, and is already living all the commandments, so it goes to show that there really are people out there who have been and are being prepared to recieve the restored gospel, we just have to do our part and find them. And that is just one of the miricles that we recived yesterday,
Elder Gleaves and Elder Phillips
Merry Christmas!
This beautiful Gingerbread Creation came to the office courtesy of Elder Shae Morgan's family. Isn't it remarkable? We were so happy to hold on to it for a couple of days before it could be delivered to him, because it made the office smell like warm, fresh gingerbread. It's just incredible.Notice the red headed missionary? It's Elder Morgan, not Presdient Bassett. ha ha The elders are also carrying copies of the BofM and the Sisters have a big "S" for their name tags all in front of the temple teaching people. What great little details.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Hello Sister Bassett!
I've been meaning to write you for a long while, but I'm a great procrastinator, but it would be ungrateful of me not to write and tell you of a few of the many miracles I have seen this year. Before I started writing down miracles, I felt as if God blessed me in different ways from miracles. I felt I didn't have anything incredibly amazing to share, but after thorough review, I have so much to share! Thank you for your inspiration in asking us to think of miracles. It has helped me immensely.
So, to name a few:
While I was in Scottsdale, Sister Winder and I had just gotten done with a dinner appointment and were about to go see someone on our list. Rather randomly, we decided to just knock on a couple of doors not even close to anything at all. The house we knocked at belonged to a less active family, the Jensens, who had lived in Scottsdale previously, moved to Hawaii for a while, and then came back. They had been active in Hawaii, but when they moved back to Scottsdale the year before, they didn't want to go to the ward they were assigned to, so they didn't transfer their records or anything, so no one knew about them to even stop by. But after that visit, their records could now be transfered, and they could be taken care of by the wards and missionaries. I don't know what happened to them, but I do know Heavenly Father had his watchful eye over that family.
- Sister Winder and I had been having a particularly difficult week, and had been praying for miracles. One of our bishops was particularly aware of our struggles and wanted so much to help us. One day he called us up and said, "Sisters, you're not going to believe this. There is someone who just moved into our area and wants to get baptized as soon as possible." We were stoked! We went to see the refferal as soon as we could. His name was Kris, and he had moved back in with his girlfriend after having just gotten out of jail. Kris had been taught by a couple missionary within the jail and had become truly converted. His heart was literally changed as he accepted and acted upon the restored gospel. Now his only desire was to get baptized and be sealed in the temple to his girlfriend and children. They were married shortly after and since he wasn't on probation, he could be baptized a week later. Miracle!
You are simply wonderful. Thank you for all that you do for us :)
With Love,
Sister Higbee
I've been meaning to write you for a long while, but I'm a great procrastinator, but it would be ungrateful of me not to write and tell you of a few of the many miracles I have seen this year. Before I started writing down miracles, I felt as if God blessed me in different ways from miracles. I felt I didn't have anything incredibly amazing to share, but after thorough review, I have so much to share! Thank you for your inspiration in asking us to think of miracles. It has helped me immensely.
So, to name a few:
While I was in Scottsdale, Sister Winder and I had just gotten done with a dinner appointment and were about to go see someone on our list. Rather randomly, we decided to just knock on a couple of doors not even close to anything at all. The house we knocked at belonged to a less active family, the Jensens, who had lived in Scottsdale previously, moved to Hawaii for a while, and then came back. They had been active in Hawaii, but when they moved back to Scottsdale the year before, they didn't want to go to the ward they were assigned to, so they didn't transfer their records or anything, so no one knew about them to even stop by. But after that visit, their records could now be transfered, and they could be taken care of by the wards and missionaries. I don't know what happened to them, but I do know Heavenly Father had his watchful eye over that family.
- Sister Winder and I had been having a particularly difficult week, and had been praying for miracles. One of our bishops was particularly aware of our struggles and wanted so much to help us. One day he called us up and said, "Sisters, you're not going to believe this. There is someone who just moved into our area and wants to get baptized as soon as possible." We were stoked! We went to see the refferal as soon as we could. His name was Kris, and he had moved back in with his girlfriend after having just gotten out of jail. Kris had been taught by a couple missionary within the jail and had become truly converted. His heart was literally changed as he accepted and acted upon the restored gospel. Now his only desire was to get baptized and be sealed in the temple to his girlfriend and children. They were married shortly after and since he wasn't on probation, he could be baptized a week later. Miracle!
You are simply wonderful. Thank you for all that you do for us :)
With Love,
Sister Higbee
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
"Find them that will receive you."
Here is a story from two different missionaries about a new investigator. Thanks for sharing elders!
Hi,
On Saturday when our 10:00 appointment fell through, we went to our "10:00 backup" slot and it was a 14 year old girl who had come to church in the Sisters' ward and wanted to get baptized. So we knocked, and the girl opened the door and said come in. I hesitated, and waited for her mom on the side to say "come in." We had no idea who her mom was but she invited us in. Sure, why not? So we go in, and without saying anything, the 14 year old, Ashley, says to her mom, "Mom, you know I've been wanting to get baptized for a long time now. That's why they're here." !!! Wow! So we taught her the first lesson right there, and it turns out her mom is a totally inactive member who still believes in the gospel but has an anti-Mormon husband. So that's our obstacle now, but what a miracle! People really are being prepared to hear the gospel, even kids and teenagers.
Thanks for your remarks on Friday! Have a great week!
Elder Silski
Dear Sister Bassett,
We saw an incredible miracle this week. A couple of weeks ago we heard that there was a 14 year old girl in our area who has been attending church for a while. We heard that she had said that she wanted to be baptized right after Christmas, but we couldn't get her information. Finally, last week, we got her information and we went by on Saturday morning. We knocked and she answered the door. Her name is Ashley. She said we could come in, and as soon as we walked in, she walked over to her mother who was sitting at the kitchen table, and said "Mom, you know that I have wanted to get baptized for a while now. That is why the Missionaries are here." We were in shock. We couldn't believe how bold she was. It turns out that Ashley is the daughter of a less-active woman who married a man who doesn't like the church. So now we are just awaiting Ashley's Dad's approval to move forward with the Baptism. It was a miracle! I have been writing down every miracle I see in my planner, and I can't even begin to tell you what a difference it has made. I am starting to recognize so many miracles every single day! We are so blessed here in Payson!
Sincerely,
Elder Christensen
Hi,
On Saturday when our 10:00 appointment fell through, we went to our "10:00 backup" slot and it was a 14 year old girl who had come to church in the Sisters' ward and wanted to get baptized. So we knocked, and the girl opened the door and said come in. I hesitated, and waited for her mom on the side to say "come in." We had no idea who her mom was but she invited us in. Sure, why not? So we go in, and without saying anything, the 14 year old, Ashley, says to her mom, "Mom, you know I've been wanting to get baptized for a long time now. That's why they're here." !!! Wow! So we taught her the first lesson right there, and it turns out her mom is a totally inactive member who still believes in the gospel but has an anti-Mormon husband. So that's our obstacle now, but what a miracle! People really are being prepared to hear the gospel, even kids and teenagers.
Thanks for your remarks on Friday! Have a great week!
Elder Silski
Dear Sister Bassett,
We saw an incredible miracle this week. A couple of weeks ago we heard that there was a 14 year old girl in our area who has been attending church for a while. We heard that she had said that she wanted to be baptized right after Christmas, but we couldn't get her information. Finally, last week, we got her information and we went by on Saturday morning. We knocked and she answered the door. Her name is Ashley. She said we could come in, and as soon as we walked in, she walked over to her mother who was sitting at the kitchen table, and said "Mom, you know that I have wanted to get baptized for a while now. That is why the Missionaries are here." We were in shock. We couldn't believe how bold she was. It turns out that Ashley is the daughter of a less-active woman who married a man who doesn't like the church. So now we are just awaiting Ashley's Dad's approval to move forward with the Baptism. It was a miracle! I have been writing down every miracle I see in my planner, and I can't even begin to tell you what a difference it has made. I am starting to recognize so many miracles every single day! We are so blessed here in Payson!
Sincerely,
Elder Christensen
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
"I sure thought it was a miracle"
I was working at the Christmas Lights. I stopped to talk with this man who was walking out of the Visitor's center. He was way closed at first and was quick to brush me off. I asked a question of the soul and then he totally changed. I just simply asked if he had ever wondered where he could find real happiness. He opened up and told me about his life, wife, kids, and how the church he was at felt like it was missing some parts. He mentioned how he didn't like the fact that when he was married, they said "until death do ye part". There we were on the temple grounds, and Heavenly Father blessed me with the opportunity to share with this man, who at first was totally unreceptive, the message of eternal families. He liked that he could be with his wife and his kids in an eternal family forever. It was a sweet and neat experience.
It was something little, but I sure thought it was a miracle. Following Preach My Gospel let this man open up and share a little about himself so that he could be taught true doctrine and be able to feel the spirit. I don't know what's going to happen, but I feel confident that a miracle took place when I stopped to talk with him.
Thanks for all you do. We're all praying for you.
-Elder S. Morgan
Sunday, December 6, 2009
peoples' hearts are being prepared
Hey Sister Bassett,
It's Elder Turner. Well I wanted to tell you about the miracles I am seeing in my area right now. First I wanted to tell you about this man. He is from Georgia, and when I heard this guy talk about his life it touched me. He first told us that he is a walking miracle, because he was beat so badly the doctors though he was dead at the scene. He recovered and went over to California to try to start a new life, but he didn't like it. So he was just traveling around the states to find a place to stay. He passed over Winslow, and he said to himself that he didn't want to come here. But then he felt in his heart that he needed to go back and check out this town. He found where the nearest hospital was and come to find out that the Mormon church was right next to it.
The next sunday was fast and testimony meeting. He just walked into church. I didn't see him at first, but he found the bishop and introduced us to him. He told us his whole story. He also told us he has a purpose over here; he just hasn't found it yet. I was so shocked. It was amazing to see a person just walk into our church and to feel the spirit at fast and testimony meeting. Now we are teaching him. It is so amazing and true that peoples' hearts are being prepared and that they are literally walking into church. I couldn't believe it, but now I do. It makes me motivated as a missionary to find the elect. Well that's one of the major miracles, but there are more to come.
Thank you, Sister Bassett Bye
It's Elder Turner. Well I wanted to tell you about the miracles I am seeing in my area right now. First I wanted to tell you about this man. He is from Georgia, and when I heard this guy talk about his life it touched me. He first told us that he is a walking miracle, because he was beat so badly the doctors though he was dead at the scene. He recovered and went over to California to try to start a new life, but he didn't like it. So he was just traveling around the states to find a place to stay. He passed over Winslow, and he said to himself that he didn't want to come here. But then he felt in his heart that he needed to go back and check out this town. He found where the nearest hospital was and come to find out that the Mormon church was right next to it.
Thank you, Sister Bassett Bye
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Well, these past miracles aren't anything really specific, but it is just a miracle for us to already receive over 20 referrals from the christmas lights. It's amazing to see how many people are found through other missionaries who work diligently by talking to everyone at the christmas lights. And a lot of the referrals that we get are in places that we would never knock if we were to go tracting. I know that God puts people in the right place at the right time to be able to accept the invitation of learning more about the restored gospel. And its so amazing to see how the Christmas spirit makes people have a broken heart to be more receptive to the feelings and impressions that come from listening to this message. It's another testimony builder to me of the truthfulness of this work.
Elder Gleaves
Friday, December 4, 2009
One of the Best Nights of My Mission
Hey Sister Bassett,
I read your comment about RM's telling about Christmas lights.
It isn't an over the top one, but it is special to me.
At first, I wasn't looking forward to the Christmas lights, but I eventually got into the mood. And early into the evening, I stopped a group of three people. After talking to them for awhile, I soon found out that they had passed a ton of missionaries, and I was the first to talk to them. And one of them was not a member and seemed kind of interested. So, I made a resolution to talk to everyone that I could. I did my best and the more I talked with people, the happier I became. And that old Christmas spirit that we all talk about, entered into my heart. It was such an amazing night. I will always remember it as one of the best nights of my mission. And the funny thing is, I didn't even receive one referral. It really does come down to how much YOU serve, rather than HOW MANY you receive. I just wish I would have known that during my first Christmas lights in the mission.
Hopefully this story helps.
And by the way, Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Tony AKA Elder Combe
photo by Richard Webb
Thursday, December 3, 2009
"God does know our cares and our concerns"
Here's an email I received from two of our zone leaders. Great story!
Last week we were praying specifically for a new investigator, but by the end of the week we still hadn't found one. We had to sacrifice a good chunk of prime proselyting time from our area by serving at the temple Christmas lights Friday night. We put forth our best effort serving there and expected the Lord to make up the difference. It was now Sunday morning, and we still had no new investigators. We had church up until 4 pm and then we were scheduled to work at the Christmas lights that evening as well. We were out of time. We needed a miracle.
At our last Sacrament meeting of the day, a member of the bishopric introduced us to Brandon. He had just walked into the building at the beginning of the meeting. Brandon had Googled us and found out the location of the building as well as the meeting time on his own. He very much enjoyed all three hours of church. We set up a time on Monday to meet with him and teach the first lesson.
At the lesson, he shared with us his past, which was full of difficulties and trials. He has a friend who is a member of the church who shared bits and pieces of Gospel truths with him when he needed it the most. He finally decided something needed to change. He told us of an experience he had where the Lord told him not to worry, but that he would be guided to the right path. Brandon also said that he would trust in the Lord and rely on his feelings instead of getting caught up in trying to explain and discover things logically. He had a broken heart and a contrite spirit. As we discussed the message of the Restoration, he became very excited and full of the Spirit saying things like, “It’s all making sense now!”, “What is the next step?” and, “This is something that I want to be a part of.”
Naturally, we decided to set a date with him for baptism. He graciously accepted, and will prepare to be baptized on the day after Christmas. Interestingly enough, he wanted to know if it would be OK if he invited people to his baptism. Of course we said yes-he could invite his family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, everybody! Brandon wants to be an example to his family and feels like this is the right decision. With his example of following the Spirit, he will be a blessing to his family and help them to accept the Gospel and the blessings that come from it.
The Lord is preparing people to receive the Gospel. When missionaries make sacrifices and give their best effort, the Lord will make miracles happen. I am so grateful that Brandon had the courage to listen to the Spirit, and for his friend sharing bits and pieces of the Gospel with him when he needed it the most. Obedience to the promptings of the Spirit allows the Lord to work miracles, and sacrifice shows the Lord you need his help.
God bless!
Love,
Elder Gomez and Elder Crook
Elder Crook added this little bit:
Sister Bassett,
For me this event of seeing Brandon come out of 'no where' was an experience I knew only God could do. Brandon was getting prepared and Elder Gomez and myself were also getting prepared as we worked. This miracle showed to me that God does know our cares and our concerns. We have 2 baptisms coming up but I was concerned about what was going to happen after that. In our effort to continue finding this last week we did talk to more people and did get some potentials from it. We didn't, however, find a new investigator and I was down until Brandon came into the picture. I know that it was because we were trying to find someone that God placed someone in our path in the unexpected way. I know that God does answer prayers espeically when we go out and do our best to fulfill them. This event showed to me that God is preparing people and how we just have to do our best and God will do the rest. I'm so grateful for this event. Thank you Sister Bassett for encouraging us to record miracles and look for them. Hope you and President Bassett have a great week!
Sincerely,
Elder Neil Crook
At our last Sacrament meeting of the day, a member of the bishopric introduced us to Brandon. He had just walked into the building at the beginning of the meeting. Brandon had Googled us and found out the location of the building as well as the meeting time on his own. He very much enjoyed all three hours of church. We set up a time on Monday to meet with him and teach the first lesson.
At the lesson, he shared with us his past, which was full of difficulties and trials. He has a friend who is a member of the church who shared bits and pieces of Gospel truths with him when he needed it the most. He finally decided something needed to change. He told us of an experience he had where the Lord told him not to worry, but that he would be guided to the right path. Brandon also said that he would trust in the Lord and rely on his feelings instead of getting caught up in trying to explain and discover things logically. He had a broken heart and a contrite spirit. As we discussed the message of the Restoration, he became very excited and full of the Spirit saying things like, “It’s all making sense now!”, “What is the next step?” and, “This is something that I want to be a part of.”
Naturally, we decided to set a date with him for baptism. He graciously accepted, and will prepare to be baptized on the day after Christmas. Interestingly enough, he wanted to know if it would be OK if he invited people to his baptism. Of course we said yes-he could invite his family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, everybody! Brandon wants to be an example to his family and feels like this is the right decision. With his example of following the Spirit, he will be a blessing to his family and help them to accept the Gospel and the blessings that come from it.
The Lord is preparing people to receive the Gospel. When missionaries make sacrifices and give their best effort, the Lord will make miracles happen. I am so grateful that Brandon had the courage to listen to the Spirit, and for his friend sharing bits and pieces of the Gospel with him when he needed it the most. Obedience to the promptings of the Spirit allows the Lord to work miracles, and sacrifice shows the Lord you need his help.
God bless!
Love,
Elder Gomez and Elder Crook
Sister Bassett,
For me this event of seeing Brandon come out of 'no where' was an experience I knew only God could do. Brandon was getting prepared and Elder Gomez and myself were also getting prepared as we worked. This miracle showed to me that God does know our cares and our concerns. We have 2 baptisms coming up but I was concerned about what was going to happen after that. In our effort to continue finding this last week we did talk to more people and did get some potentials from it. We didn't, however, find a new investigator and I was down until Brandon came into the picture. I know that it was because we were trying to find someone that God placed someone in our path in the unexpected way. I know that God does answer prayers espeically when we go out and do our best to fulfill them. This event showed to me that God is preparing people and how we just have to do our best and God will do the rest. I'm so grateful for this event. Thank you Sister Bassett for encouraging us to record miracles and look for them. Hope you and President Bassett have a great week!
Sincerely,
Elder Neil Crook
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
I Believe in Miracles
Sister Bassett,
I think that's a good title to this email. I was just informed for the first time to send you my miracles, here we go.
I got a member referral!
I was able to follow the spirit to help someone stop smoking.
I was getting sick and wouldn't be able to sing for sacrament on Sunday so I said a prayer and I kid you not, I felt better in 5 minutes. That was so cool.
Committed 2 people to baptism this transfer!
My mind is foggy but these things were awesome!
Love, Elder Caywood
I think that's a good title to this email. I was just informed for the first time to send you my miracles, here we go.
I got a member referral!
I was able to follow the spirit to help someone stop smoking.
I was getting sick and wouldn't be able to sing for sacrament on Sunday so I said a prayer and I kid you not, I felt better in 5 minutes. That was so cool.
Committed 2 people to baptism this transfer!
My mind is foggy but these things were awesome!
Love, Elder Caywood
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Answered Prayers
Hello Sister Bassett,
It has been a neat experience reflecting on all the miracles I have seen since we have fasted as a mission. What keeps coming to my mind is how I have been so blessed as a missionary to have taught the G____ family. Anna and Noe are the parents of 5 boys. We recieved Anna as a referral sometime in October. We began just teaching Anna, and then we were able to set up a time to teach the whole family. The lessons were going great. The boys were always fighting over whose turn it was to pray. We saw their progression in the gospel, but I think the real miracle came when Sis Tuioti and I recieved an answer to their prayers through a member.
We went over to visit Anna one morning. She was upset, because she had to send her boys to school without breakfast. Tears filled her eyes as she explained the difficult situation they were in with unemployment. We reassured her and tried to comfort her. Throughout that day they were in our thoughts and prayers. We tried to get a hold of people who we think could help with food but we didn't hear back from anyone. Then at about 7 that night, we recieved a phone call from a member in a different ward. She asked us if we had dinner yet and if we were hungry. We told her that we already had dinner and asked her why. She then told us that she cooked dinner that night but then her husband brought dinner home, and they didn't want a hot meal to go to waste. She called around the ward and asked about 10 families if they needed dinner that night. All of them declined the offer. Then the impression came to her to call the missionaries. As she explained this, my heart filled with joy as I knew who exactly could use that meal. So I asked Sister Brown if we could take the dinner to a family that could really use it. Of course she said yes. When we picked up the dinner, much to our surprise, Sister Brown had a few more bags of food she had cleared from her pantry. An answer to our prayers!! 
We took the food over to the G____'s, and they were filled with so much joy. Anna and Noe both expressed gratitude, and we couldn't help but watch the boys get so excited about the fruit snacks and other tasty treats. That week was a huge motivator for this family. We set a baptismal date with them. Anna, Noe and their oldest son all got baptized together. They are strong members of the church already. Noe has expressed the desire to share his testimony in church several times and has been ordained as a priest. He looks forward to baptizing their son Jonathan in April. Also as a result we are now teaching Anna's nieces, Bianca and Crystal who live with them now. They are schedule to be baptized this saturday.
Of course there have been many other miracles that I would love to share. Minutes are running out here at the library so if you would like me to share a few more let me know.
Thanks for all you do Sister Bassett. You are amazing!! (I love it when they say that!)
Sister Tara Morton
The Lord Led Him Right Back To Us!
Hey sister Bassett!
This week we went to teach an investigator at a recent convert's house. He lives in our area, but she doesn't, and they are dating. Back about 4 months ago when Elder Coffman and I were first put together, we talked to a guy at a gas station. And it was probably one of the most spiritual TTI's of my mission, but he rejected us. I was kinda bummed but felt good 'cause the spirit was there, and I knew that guy had felt it. Anyways, 4 months down the road after never seeing him again, he shows up last night to the lesson only this time, he is prepared to hear the gospel. He is going through a rough time in his life right now and needs the Lord's help. It is a miracle. The Lord led him right back to us!
Elder Chance Pebbley
This week we went to teach an investigator at a recent convert's house. He lives in our area, but she doesn't, and they are dating. Back about 4 months ago when Elder Coffman and I were first put together, we talked to a guy at a gas station. And it was probably one of the most spiritual TTI's of my mission, but he rejected us. I was kinda bummed but felt good 'cause the spirit was there, and I knew that guy had felt it. Anyways, 4 months down the road after never seeing him again, he shows up last night to the lesson only this time, he is prepared to hear the gospel. He is going through a rough time in his life right now and needs the Lord's help. It is a miracle. The Lord led him right back to us!
Elder Chance Pebbley
Monday, November 30, 2009
It was truly a miracle!
From Elder Colton Weight:
This week has been an amazing week, I had my first baptism, and it was the greatest thing and the greatest feeling ever!! That baptism was one of the miracles that had occured from the mission fast. Linda is her name, and she had been living down the street from President Lewis for quite some time and a member of a protestant church for around 20 years, I believe. She had turned down countless missionaries. Well a man that she'd known for a long time was converted somewhat recently. She noticed the change that the gospel brought into his life and really wanted that change for herself. So she had him set up an appointment when she could meet with us. We taught her the restoration. She was a golden investigator from the get go and is extremely knowledgable about the Bible. Later during that week, she called us and said she wanted to be baptized! So we set up an appointment with her, taught her the plan of salvation and then set a date. We started teaching her at the beginning of November and she was baptized at the end! I know that it truly was a miracle, and it was because of our mission wide fast that that was able to happen, that her heart was softened so that we could bring her unto Christ so that she could have that change in her life! It's such an amazing experience, and it'll be something I'll never forget! Thank you for the opportunity to be able to have that fast. It has truly strengthened my testimony!
Love you very much, Love Elder Weight
This week has been an amazing week, I had my first baptism, and it was the greatest thing and the greatest feeling ever!! That baptism was one of the miracles that had occured from the mission fast. Linda is her name, and she had been living down the street from President Lewis for quite some time and a member of a protestant church for around 20 years, I believe. She had turned down countless missionaries. Well a man that she'd known for a long time was converted somewhat recently. She noticed the change that the gospel brought into his life and really wanted that change for herself. So she had him set up an appointment when she could meet with us. We taught her the restoration. She was a golden investigator from the get go and is extremely knowledgable about the Bible. Later during that week, she called us and said she wanted to be baptized! So we set up an appointment with her, taught her the plan of salvation and then set a date. We started teaching her at the beginning of November and she was baptized at the end! I know that it truly was a miracle, and it was because of our mission wide fast that that was able to happen, that her heart was softened so that we could bring her unto Christ so that she could have that change in her life! It's such an amazing experience, and it'll be something I'll never forget! Thank you for the opportunity to be able to have that fast. It has truly strengthened my testimony!
Love you very much, Love Elder Weight
Sunday, November 29, 2009
"I Felt the Lord Guide Me"
We've been anticipating the beginning of the Christmas Season for a long time now. We have so many new missionaries that have never had the 'Christmas Lights' experience-but they are in for a treat! Tonight, as we watched some of them, you could see the worry in their faces. Do you remember how intimidating a large group of people can be? But I have been so proud of them. Despite personal struggles, they go forward. On opening night, one of the new VC sisters that has been shy and hesitant invited a group of over 10,000 to come to the Visitor's Center. She did it. I don't think she thought she could, but she did. I was so proud of her for accepting that assignment and following through. Over the past few days, we've seen other missionaries stepping up and going beyond their comfort zones.
Even experienced missionaries have struggles. Here's the story of one elder's personal miracle:
Even experienced missionaries have struggles. Here's the story of one elder's personal miracle:
My Companion and I are dreaming of a "White Christmas," and that dream kept us going this past week through some difficulties and disappointments. I am grateful for what you shared after zone leader council; that we must have it in our hearts that the Lord will bless us with those baptisms and that we must pray and work as if it already happened.
One miracle that I experienced this week was at the opening night of Chirstmas lights. I was excited for it the whole week, and woke up on Friday morning looking forward to working at the lights that evening. When we arrived for the meeting, however, I was extremely nervous. I don't know why, but I was really, really anxious and had trouble keeping still. I haven't felt that in a while. With a prayer in my heart, I went with my companion, and we parted to go to our assigned areas. I did my very best and prayed for the faith sufficient to be able to talk with and invite everyone. I am sad to say that I did let a few people pass by that I felt impressed to talk with, and will repent of that, but I felt the Lord guide me and help me as I spoke with people. The nervousness that I had felt so strongly went away as I did my best to put into practice that which I was taught and focus on the message of the Restoration. We were able to see and feel that we were successful as a group that night, and I am so grateful for the opportunity that we have to serve at the lights.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Miracles in Mariposa (Liahona 4th ward)
Sister Bassett,
Wow, that's a really catchy subject name for this email; sounds like a movie or something and I wasn't even trying. Anyways, this is Elder Gibson, Sister Bassett. I am writing in response to your request for recent miracles that have occurred. We have seen some amazing miracles with a family we have started teaching about three weeks ago. They are Maria and Susana, both sisters with 5 kids in total. Just to give you some background first, both are in their 30's or so, and Maria has a 21-year-old son. Susana is not married, but has two sons and two daughters with a boyfriend currently working in New Mexico. Anyways, Susana has been Catholic, Jehovah's Witness, "Christian," pretty much everything, but she has been less than impressed with them all. She said that she had been praying to know what the truth really was, and shortly afterwards we TTI'd (talked to her on the street) and taught Maria outside their house, and began teaching her on our second visit. She told us last week that the 1st time she came to Church she knew that it was true, and wants to get baptized.
It has been an amazing experience to teach these women. They are both shy. Maria is very cautious, but they are amazing. Susana has an incredible knowledge of true doctrine, even though some of it has never been taught to her. While we were teaching them the Plan of Salvation, we asked them what they thought happened to us after death, and she sheepishly explained what she thought was only her idea, but it was EXACTLY correct. She described Spirit Paradise perfectly, and she understood everything very well. We are still teaching them, and they will be baptized soon.
Thank you for the opportunity to share these experiences, Sister Bassett, I really appreciate it. Merry Christmas!
-Elder Gibson
Wow, that's a really catchy subject name for this email; sounds like a movie or something and I wasn't even trying. Anyways, this is Elder Gibson, Sister Bassett. I am writing in response to your request for recent miracles that have occurred. We have seen some amazing miracles with a family we have started teaching about three weeks ago. They are Maria and Susana, both sisters with 5 kids in total. Just to give you some background first, both are in their 30's or so, and Maria has a 21-year-old son. Susana is not married, but has two sons and two daughters with a boyfriend currently working in New Mexico. Anyways, Susana has been Catholic, Jehovah's Witness, "Christian," pretty much everything, but she has been less than impressed with them all. She said that she had been praying to know what the truth really was, and shortly afterwards we TTI'd (talked to her on the street) and taught Maria outside their house, and began teaching her on our second visit. She told us last week that the 1st time she came to Church she knew that it was true, and wants to get baptized.
It has been an amazing experience to teach these women. They are both shy. Maria is very cautious, but they are amazing. Susana has an incredible knowledge of true doctrine, even though some of it has never been taught to her. While we were teaching them the Plan of Salvation, we asked them what they thought happened to us after death, and she sheepishly explained what she thought was only her idea, but it was EXACTLY correct. She described Spirit Paradise perfectly, and she understood everything very well. We are still teaching them, and they will be baptized soon.
Thank you for the opportunity to share these experiences, Sister Bassett, I really appreciate it. Merry Christmas!
-Elder Gibson
Friday, November 27, 2009
Hi Sister Bassett!
This is Elder Silski serving in Payson. Here's just a quick miracle for you:
So on Sunday night, past 8:30, we were looking for someone to visit, who would let us in or talk to us. We were scrambling for names, and we decided to see a referral named Isaac. It was worth a shot, we figured, maybe we could set up a return time with him, if he was awake. So we go by, it's now 8:45, there's a dim light on and we question whether or not to knock. Sure, why not? So we knock, and a man answers and says, "Hi, come in." All right then! We were received into his home and taught him the Restoration. He's a great man who has strong faith in Christ as his personal Savior and Redeemer. But he's willing to hear us out.
How often does that happen? Someone letting missionaries into their home at 8:45 at night? He did. A tender mercy!
Elder Silski
This is Elder Silski serving in Payson. Here's just a quick miracle for you:
So on Sunday night, past 8:30, we were looking for someone to visit, who would let us in or talk to us. We were scrambling for names, and we decided to see a referral named Isaac. It was worth a shot, we figured, maybe we could set up a return time with him, if he was awake. So we go by, it's now 8:45, there's a dim light on and we question whether or not to knock. Sure, why not? So we knock, and a man answers and says, "Hi, come in." All right then! We were received into his home and taught him the Restoration. He's a great man who has strong faith in Christ as his personal Savior and Redeemer. But he's willing to hear us out.
How often does that happen? Someone letting missionaries into their home at 8:45 at night? He did. A tender mercy!
Elder Silski
Thursday, November 26, 2009
After the Trial of Your Faith
This is another account of the story from the post yesterday. Still a great story! If you have quesstions about the lds church and our beliefs-ask me! Or you can talk to missionaries via a live chat at mormon.org 
Dear Sister Basset,
Let's see... For Elder matsunaga and I, we really had a tremendous week last week due to the tender mercies of our heavenly Father. Last transfer, I waited and waited for such miracles, and they never came... well they way I was expecting. And just this last week, we saw miracle after miracle. Tuesday: We found a great family who had talked to missionaries a while back and wanted their girls in the youth program and wanted comfort in an ever-so changing world. Wednesday: We talked to ANOTHER great family of 5 that had talked to missionaries in the past and is really excited about learing about the gospel. Thursday: We found ANOTHER great family through a random TTI who is searching for guidance amongst their family. That same night we taught ANOTHER family who we had just found who had a neighbor over who was really interested. Friday: We got a referral and went to contact it and right away we were invited in to teach them, and they expressed their desire to find a true church. Saturday: We got a member referral. We taught this lady at the member's house and the Lady (Patricia) is in search for peace in her life. After the lesson she held The Book of Mormon, looked into our eyes as her's filled up with tears and said, "This is the first time I've felt this peace. I NEED this in my life". That same day we tried to contact a referral, and we read it wrong, and in so doing, we found a 16 year old boy who is really confused about all the churches and sincerely wants to know where to go to.
So for us, it was just a miracle after another... I was very grateful to just be a part of that week for us. There are many dates to be set this week and there's no where else I would rather be but here in the Arizona Mesa Mission.
Elder Kunz
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
The Power of Prayer
Dear Sister Bassett,I recorded this in my journal on Saturday, the 21 November: "The miracle for me today...was the lesson we had with a woman named Patricia. We met Patricia through a member that the Elders (Benson and Derochie) had met in a dinner appointment and then had referred to us. That lesson was one of the most powerful, spiritual lessons I feel that I have had in my mission. She was just so...prepared, I suppose I would say. She hungered after the message of the restoration and even told us Joseph Smith's story back to us (without invitation) after we had explained it. We invited her to pray, and even though she was nervous and anxious to do it, she did and toward the end of her prayer, began to speak with a great deal of emotion. With tears in her eyes as she closed the prayer, she said after we asked what she was feeling: 'I feel...this peace. I feel...beautiful.' She looked at us with a piercing gaze and, with The Book of Mormon outstretched toward us in her hands, said "I need this peace. I need these things. My children need to feel these things. I want to be a good mother. I want to be a good wife to my husband. I want to be a good person.'"
We left and said a prayer in the car in thanks for the miracles that God has been pouring out upon us, for that miracle is only one of thousands more that we have seen in these few short days. I am grateful for the opportunity that I have to serve again with a dear friend and fellowservant in the work, and for the time that we have to do something about the miracles that God is sending to us. I know that they are not for our benefit alone, but for us to bless the lives of others.
Elder R
*To receive your own copy of The Book of Mormon" visit mormon.org
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Heavenly Father Will Let Us Know
In this post, I'll share a letter from one of our zone leaders. Note that in the beginning he says this story isn't a 'huge miracle'. I don't know if I agree with him on that point, and I think if we were to ask 'Daivd', he wouldn't think so either. There is more to the story than Elder Mace has shared, and more than he probably even knows. It involves the softening of someone's heart and an entirely different person receiving and acting on a prompting at the right time. (What does it mean to receive a prompting? Well that's a story for another time! I'll try and post some notes about that from one of our zone conferences.) The Bible Dictionary explains that miracles are manifestations of divine or spiritual power. Who else but God know our hearts and has the power to change them? And He certainly loves us enough to send others our way when we need them. Certainly, this story fits that category. Sometimes, as missionaries we see so many miracles, we don't realize just how big they are so we look harder than we need to in order to see the Hand of God. In some ways, I believe there's no such thing as a small miracle. Let's not be shy about sharing them and giving some credit when its due. Thanks, Elder Mace, for sharing this one with me!
Sister Bassett,
This isn't a huge miracle, but to me it was neat. I thought I would share this recent one with you.
I got an impression to stop by a former investigater's house this week. His name kept coming to my mind, and I had a distinct impression that I needed to visit him. His name is David. Elder Gomez and I taught David for a long time, and he was suppose to get baptized but didn't quit smoking cigars in time. So we pushed the baptismal date back a few weeks. Then Elder Page came, and David suddenly started avoiding us. He stopped coming to church; he wouldn't answer the door for us (even when we knew he was home), and he wouldn't even answer our phone calls. In fact, he wouldn't even answer any phone calls from his friends in the church. We finally stopped trying to go by and call him because it just wasn't working.
After a while, I forgot about David. But this week I strongly felt like we needed to go back and try him again. I didn't know why, because I figured he'd still just ignore us. But Elder Seaborn and I went. Something changed, because when we knocked on his door, he warmly welcomed us and invited us in. It turns out that he will be moving to Pheonix soon because of financial problems, so it's a good thing we caught him. We can teach him a few times, get his new address, and help him find the other missionaries in Phoenix.
It was a neat experience to me, because Heavenly Father knows when His children are prepared. And He'll let us know.
Thanks,
Elder Jason Mace
Sister Bassett,
This isn't a huge miracle, but to me it was neat. I thought I would share this recent one with you.
I got an impression to stop by a former investigater's house this week. His name kept coming to my mind, and I had a distinct impression that I needed to visit him. His name is David. Elder Gomez and I taught David for a long time, and he was suppose to get baptized but didn't quit smoking cigars in time. So we pushed the baptismal date back a few weeks. Then Elder Page came, and David suddenly started avoiding us. He stopped coming to church; he wouldn't answer the door for us (even when we knew he was home), and he wouldn't even answer our phone calls. In fact, he wouldn't even answer any phone calls from his friends in the church. We finally stopped trying to go by and call him because it just wasn't working.
After a while, I forgot about David. But this week I strongly felt like we needed to go back and try him again. I didn't know why, because I figured he'd still just ignore us. But Elder Seaborn and I went. Something changed, because when we knocked on his door, he warmly welcomed us and invited us in. It turns out that he will be moving to Pheonix soon because of financial problems, so it's a good thing we caught him. We can teach him a few times, get his new address, and help him find the other missionaries in Phoenix.
It was a neat experience to me, because Heavenly Father knows when His children are prepared. And He'll let us know.
Thanks,
Elder Jason Mace
I could tell God has been working in their lives
From Elder Neil Crook:
I wanted to share some miracles I've seen since I've been on my mission, at least one in particular. In Maricopa Stake we found out that the young women have been bringing their friend out to church for a while. We got the ok from her mom to teach her. Well, she was baptized just shortly afterwards. So we invited her mom as well to hear the lessons, and she was open to it after her daughter's baptism.
The miracle was while we were teaching her, we didn't know what to do. It just seemed like whenever we brought up baptism, she would shy away. During the time of teaching, they went from going to a place with no eletricity and water to a save-the-family-organization where she got a job. So we were hoping to see her recognize God's hand in blessing her so much.
One night, we dropped by without her daughter home. She just expressed to us that she wants to be baptized, but that her daughter wanted this to be her thing. Her daughter meant everything to her. Well, we decided to have a lesson about families in a member's home. We brought our family calendars with us. We shared this and asked the daughter what she could do to help her mom. Then she said, "Mom, I think you should get baptized." It was awesome, and I could tell God has been working in their lives and they are still active and have callings now. :D But yeah, thanks Sister Bassett for the inspiration about recording our miracles. Hope more will continue to come!!!
I wanted to share some miracles I've seen since I've been on my mission, at least one in particular. In Maricopa Stake we found out that the young women have been bringing their friend out to church for a while. We got the ok from her mom to teach her. Well, she was baptized just shortly afterwards. So we invited her mom as well to hear the lessons, and she was open to it after her daughter's baptism.
The miracle was while we were teaching her, we didn't know what to do. It just seemed like whenever we brought up baptism, she would shy away. During the time of teaching, they went from going to a place with no eletricity and water to a save-the-family-organization where she got a job. So we were hoping to see her recognize God's hand in blessing her so much.
One night, we dropped by without her daughter home. She just expressed to us that she wants to be baptized, but that her daughter wanted this to be her thing. Her daughter meant everything to her. Well, we decided to have a lesson about families in a member's home. We brought our family calendars with us. We shared this and asked the daughter what she could do to help her mom. Then she said, "Mom, I think you should get baptized." It was awesome, and I could tell God has been working in their lives and they are still active and have callings now. :D But yeah, thanks Sister Bassett for the inspiration about recording our miracles. Hope more will continue to come!!!
Monday, November 23, 2009
The Power of Godliness is Manifest
Doctrine and Covenants 84:20 "Therefore, in the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest." It is a miracle when the spirit touches someone's heart and confirms to them the truthfulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Often this happens when people are present during priesthood ordinances like blessings, baptisms, the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and during the blessing and passing of the Sacrament.
This is a letter from Elder Chance Pebley about one of these types of miracles:
So this last Tuesday, a lady was baptized. She is the sister of Melinda Powell who used to be heavily involved with the Calvary Baptist Church. She even started the Awana program for those guys. I am pretty sure that is like a mutual thing-only for all ages. Anyways, she met with Elder Johnson and I when I first came here in June. She had always taught about Christ, but she told us she always also taught to stay away from the Mormons and their church.
So after we taught her she felt bad, because she knew she was leading people away from the truth and didn't feel she could be forgiven of doing those things. So we bore testimony to her about the atonement and left her with Alma 36 to read. She came back the next week on fire and willing to do whatever it took to get baptized. She knew that The Book of Mormon was true. There are more miracles in that story that I could talk about, too! Anyways she was baptized and her sister who attended Calvary with her attended her baptism. She hadn't yet read from The Book of Mormon or met with missionaries. Anyways, she was present for her baptism and felt the spirit there. Then this Tuesday she was baptized. From the single experience of being present at Melinda's baptism, she felt the spirit so powerfully that she couldn't deny that what her sister was doing was true and right. At her baptism, I asked her what her experience was like meeting with the missionaries and reading The Book of Mormon. She related back to Melinda's baptism and said, "I knew it was true before I even opened The Book of Mormon." She has two daughters that she wants the missionaries to start teaching in Taylor and to get baptized when they know it is true.
They too, go to Calvary just like their mom and aunt did.
Here are some pics of Melinda and her sister Kristine. Melinda is the one with Elder Coffman and I.
The onyl time I had seen Kristine was at Melinda's baptism, and I didn't have a chance to talk to her because she was surrounded by members, but she asked me to baptize her. It was an INCREDIBLE experience! Have a great week!
This is a letter from Elder Chance Pebley about one of these types of miracles:
So this last Tuesday, a lady was baptized. She is the sister of Melinda Powell who used to be heavily involved with the Calvary Baptist Church. She even started the Awana program for those guys. I am pretty sure that is like a mutual thing-only for all ages. Anyways, she met with Elder Johnson and I when I first came here in June. She had always taught about Christ, but she told us she always also taught to stay away from the Mormons and their church.
So after we taught her she felt bad, because she knew she was leading people away from the truth and didn't feel she could be forgiven of doing those things. So we bore testimony to her about the atonement and left her with Alma 36 to read. She came back the next week on fire and willing to do whatever it took to get baptized. She knew that The Book of Mormon was true. There are more miracles in that story that I could talk about, too! Anyways she was baptized and her sister who attended Calvary with her attended her baptism. She hadn't yet read from The Book of Mormon or met with missionaries. Anyways, she was present for her baptism and felt the spirit there. Then this Tuesday she was baptized. From the single experience of being present at Melinda's baptism, she felt the spirit so powerfully that she couldn't deny that what her sister was doing was true and right. At her baptism, I asked her what her experience was like meeting with the missionaries and reading The Book of Mormon. She related back to Melinda's baptism and said, "I knew it was true before I even opened The Book of Mormon." She has two daughters that she wants the missionaries to start teaching in Taylor and to get baptized when they know it is true.
They too, go to Calvary just like their mom and aunt did.
Here are some pics of Melinda and her sister Kristine. Melinda is the one with Elder Coffman and I.
The other is Kristine and her two daughters.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Miracle-It's Raining!
(An email from Elder Jeffrey Gomez)
No, but really this week's miracle comes from my first transfer on the mission.
Crystal and Jason had felt the spirit and were eager to join the church. Because there were some setbacks, they had to wait. During their wait, Crystal ran out of medications she had been taking for a mental disorder that had plagued her since she was four years old. The prescription couldn't be filled because of limited supplies. She stayed strong for a few days, but later had to be hospitalized. She spent several days in the hospital, and we regularly kept in contact with Jason to see how she was doing. The time came when her prescription was filled and she returned to their apartment. She immediately had my companion and I head on over to give her a priesthood blessing. I performed the anointing and my companion promised her that if she would remain faithful, her ailments would leave her and she would return to full health. Time passed and she remained healthy. My companion was transferred out of the area. A couple of months went by, and we continued to visit Jason and Crystal. One day Crystal decided to tell us what actually happened as she recieved the blessing. She felt a warm feeling come over her, and she knew that God had healed her. Five days passed, and she realized that she'd forgotten to take her medication. She took the medication, but it made her feel sick. She was overwhelmed with joy when she realized that she didn't need the medication anymore! The priesthood of God is very real and has the power to heal according to God's will and according to the faith of those involved.
No, but really this week's miracle comes from my first transfer on the mission.
Crystal and Jason had felt the spirit and were eager to join the church. Because there were some setbacks, they had to wait. During their wait, Crystal ran out of medications she had been taking for a mental disorder that had plagued her since she was four years old. The prescription couldn't be filled because of limited supplies. She stayed strong for a few days, but later had to be hospitalized. She spent several days in the hospital, and we regularly kept in contact with Jason to see how she was doing. The time came when her prescription was filled and she returned to their apartment. She immediately had my companion and I head on over to give her a priesthood blessing. I performed the anointing and my companion promised her that if she would remain faithful, her ailments would leave her and she would return to full health. Time passed and she remained healthy. My companion was transferred out of the area. A couple of months went by, and we continued to visit Jason and Crystal. One day Crystal decided to tell us what actually happened as she recieved the blessing. She felt a warm feeling come over her, and she knew that God had healed her. Five days passed, and she realized that she'd forgotten to take her medication. She took the medication, but it made her feel sick. She was overwhelmed with joy when she realized that she didn't need the medication anymore! The priesthood of God is very real and has the power to heal according to God's will and according to the faith of those involved.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Trunk or Treat Missionary style
I don't know how many trunk or treat parties there were throughout the valley, but I do know most of them had some pretty great displays. Some missionaries decorated their trunks, 'borrowed' a trunk from a member, or decorated a couple of chairs in between their bikes. They were so creative! Elder Woolf and Elder Diaz used sidewalk chalk to draw the plan of salvation out in front of their trunk. They also had a DVD playing. They worked hard to invite the neighborhood to come, and they came.
I'm hoping the missionaries will send in some more pictures.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Is it a revelation? Or just me!?
I had a pretty cool missionary experience today. I always carry a blue Book of Mormon with me in my back pack and in my car. When I am waiting for a bus, or whenever I have extra time, I just grab it and start reading it. This has two purposes: 1, It helps me do more scripture study. 2. I want to give it to someone and it is a good conversation starter for that purpose! I got on the "wrong" bus today when trying to go to class. This bus took me ALL OVER! While I was sitting there, I thought "I should take out the Book and start reading. Maybe the girl next to me will want to know more." It seemed silly, since I THOUGHT I was going to be getting off momentarily. I figured it was just a thought, not revelation. But then I thought about all the great talks on receiving revelation at conference and decided it wouldn't hurt to try. I noticed that my bus driver kept reading from her book at every stop light. Every time we were stopped for one reason or another she pulled out that book and started reading. That's when the spirit spoke to me and said "she really enjoys reading and is almost done with that book. You should give her a NEW book to read." As I was getting off of the bus, I told her that I noticed how much she liked reading and that I wanted to give her MY favorite book to read. This poor, sad, crusty copy of the Book of Mormon had survived a rainstorm with me a few weeks ago and has been read a lot... I apologized for the condition of the book and told her that it was very loved! She was TOTALLY excited and asked me a little more about it. I shared a little more, then gave her a pass along card as a book mark. I missed my class (it was a VERY long bus route). But i think I caught the "right" bus according to the Lord, not the "wrong" one that I thought originally. Gotta love it!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Competition Put to Good Use
Elder (Christian) Johnson gave a training about using the calendar to help people reach their baptismal date. Here's a visual of his object lesson.
Ingredients: 2 competitive missionaries (thanks elder moffitt & pasenelli),
tootsie rolls, 9 X 13 pan, and a crowd to cheer them on
The concept: You want to be a focused missionary and keep your eyes faced downward on the pan. Elder Johnson will call out a point of progress for your investigator (setting a date, reading, going to church, praying...). Then he will drop a tootsie toll. The focused missionary wants to be the first to grab it-but only after it has touched the pan.
It was getting a little fierce. They each had a stack of tootsie rolls, but Elder Pasenelli was edging Elder Moffitt out.
I was paying more attention to my camera and trying to get a good angle, so I was as surprised as they were when...
...the next point of progress for the investigator was, "You find out your investigator hasn't quit smoking 2 days before his date," and instead of grabbing a tootsie toll,
...they grabbed an egg.
Gross
Monday, September 7, 2009
An Encore Performance
Does this look familiar?
President did the focus training again and it was great. If I have more time tomorrow, I'll post a little more about it.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
'the Lamanites... are the principal ancestors of the American Indians'
Dear Sister Bassett,
I wanted to let you know of some of the miracles that we've seen as we have been using The Book of Mormon more. My goal has been to have a give-a-way copy of the Book of Mormon in my hands at all times. Through doing this, I've been able to use it in TTIs and see peoples' hearts soften and agree to meet with us.
Two days ago, we had dinner with a recent convert from another area who just moved into our area. During dinner, her son's fiancee said she was Navajo. For our after dinner message we read the introduction to The Book of Mormon. I asked her to read the second paragraph in which it says, "...the Lamanites, and they are the principal ancestors of the American Indians."
She was visibly touched and had a great sense of urgency in learning more about this book. She said she had grown up in a small, primarily LDS town in Southern Utah and no one had ever told her that. We invited her to learn more and to attend a Stake Missionary Fireside with Signa (the recent convert) that evening. She came to the fireside, and we taught her the first lesson yesterday. When she gave the closing prayer, she prayed that her fiancee and Signa's husband would "open themselves to this, because she was really into it."
The Book of Mormon truly is God's chosen tool for us to know of the truthfulness of the Gospel and the Restoration.
Thank you for your message and testimony at last Zone Conference.
Love,
Sister Tomoser
I wanted to let you know of some of the miracles that we've seen as we have been using The Book of Mormon more. My goal has been to have a give-a-way copy of the Book of Mormon in my hands at all times. Through doing this, I've been able to use it in TTIs and see peoples' hearts soften and agree to meet with us.
Two days ago, we had dinner with a recent convert from another area who just moved into our area. During dinner, her son's fiancee said she was Navajo. For our after dinner message we read the introduction to The Book of Mormon. I asked her to read the second paragraph in which it says, "...the Lamanites, and they are the principal ancestors of the American Indians."
She was visibly touched and had a great sense of urgency in learning more about this book. She said she had grown up in a small, primarily LDS town in Southern Utah and no one had ever told her that. We invited her to learn more and to attend a Stake Missionary Fireside with Signa (the recent convert) that evening. She came to the fireside, and we taught her the first lesson yesterday. When she gave the closing prayer, she prayed that her fiancee and Signa's husband would "open themselves to this, because she was really into it."
The Book of Mormon truly is God's chosen tool for us to know of the truthfulness of the Gospel and the Restoration.
Thank you for your message and testimony at last Zone Conference.
Love,
Sister Tomoser
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Fact or Fiction
Dogs hate mailmen and missionaries.
Fact or Fiction?
You decide.
OK, so my foot wasn't actually in the shoe while the dog was chewing on it. Still, it was a HUGE dog. It looked like a pony; a big, black, shaggy pony with the head of a bear. (New Foundling maybe?) I also used to think that Beethoven-type dog slobber was a movie stunt, but this dog proved that wrong, too. Gross.
So, what is your best dog story from the mission?
Friday, August 14, 2009
All You Have to Do is Ask
I hadn't seen my friend Nicole since before the mission. She had moved to Jacksonville, FL and I hadn't even talked to her since I returned. This Sunday we were able to meet up for about an hour while she was in town. She asked me about the mission and we had a great time, as if I had never left. I had really been praying for missionary experiences that week, and two days after seeing Nicole she popped into my head during my scripture study. I sent her a simple text message that said "I feel like a horrible friend for never giving you the opportunity to learn about why I left for 18 months. It would mean so much to me if you would allow me to send the missionaries by to share with you the most precious thing that I have. Would that be ok?" She replied "That would be fine :-)" Nicole is someone who had boldly enforced the idea that "God is just not for me". But trusting in our friendship, she allowed me to send the missionaries by. I called in the referral (she lives 1.5 hours away from me) and I can't wait to hear how it goes. It just goes to show you that all you have to do is ask. Ask the Lord for the opportunity, then ask the person when the opportunity is presented.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Stay Focused...no distractions!
Remember this one?
Clicking on the link should take you to the slide
show on Picasa where you can download individual pictures.
If it doesn't work, let me know.
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