Hey, how’s it going?
Sounds like everything is going great with the new office and everything. Also sounds like you have a sweet staff rolling in. Haha I’ll help you with marketing when I get back, Taiwan sure needs it BIG TIME!!!
I’m doing great. Yeah today was transfers. My new companion is Elder Gania. I’m still in the same area. He is from Cali, his dad is Philipino, and his Mom is Chinese. He's sweet! This is going to be a way fun transfer. I’m excited to work with him. I’m so grateful I’m still in this area; this area really is so amazing. I love our ward so much they are awesome; the support they give for missionary work is amazing.
But I’m so stoked to call home in 2 weeks. Yeah I think just like last time, I’ll call home or something. We'll schedule it next Monday when I email you. But I gotta figure out like when it would be best to call you. I’ll probably call you guys on my Sunday and your Saturday, so it won’t actually be Mother’s Day at home. But we'll have to coordinate it next time. But I’m so excited to talk to you guys.
This last week was a good week to end to transfer. We have a rule in the mission that in order for an investigator to get baptized they have to go to at least all 3 hours of church at least once. Brother Huang, because of his work, he's come every week to sacrament but has never made it all three hours. So yesterday when he was supposed to get baptized was his last chance to come all 3 hours or else he couldn't be baptized. So we were praying really hard, that he'd be able to stay for all 3 hours. Well he stayed and we had a wonderful baptismal service. I’ll have to send you the pics of that and new companion next week in the email. But it was awesome. That’s the second guys Wu Guan Chen our friend has found that has gotten baptized. Just think if every member in the world found 1 person a year to get baptized the church would rocket out of this world. We need more ward missionary work around the world. I didn't understand that at all when I was at home, but now I understand. Out of every 3 people that get referred by a member 1 gets baptized. That is an amazing ratio. Member work is so, so, so important. I just wish members were better about getting into the work. We have a group that love it but the others are just not there. We’re working on it though and it's improving. But the baptism was great, I love seeing people receive a remission of sins and coming out in a newness of life. Being a missionary is the coolest things ever.
I want to share an amazing miracle we had early last week. So it was a night that we had a bunch of lessons set up. But the night before none of them said they could. So we randomly had a whole night open up. We were thinking about it during planning, where should we go? We haven’t been out to Nan Gang in a while so we decided to trek our way out there in the night time. It's pretty far away so we don't get out there much because of the lessons we teach and things. So we had our plan to get out to Nan Gang. So we were sitting at dinner before we were going to head out there, I pulled out the ward list to see if there was any less actives that lived out there who we could visit. I saw a family of 5 the Lo Family. Instantly I thought them!! We are going to find them! So we looked at their address, they ended up being at the end of our huge area almost to the next area. So we started out talking to everyone. Every single person was talked to on the way, all we saw was rejection after rejection. We stopped for a minute and my companion asked me what are we doing wrong? I just had the thought maybe the Lord really wants us to get to that family so he's not allowing us to have success. I just told him have faith we'll see a miracle. So then is started pouring rain on top of everything. We had to go to the nearest 7-11 and buy a poncho. Now it was pouring rain, and we were getting rejected left and right. But I knew I absolutely knew there was a reason we were out there. We got to their house and no one was home. Man talk about a hit to the heart, we road our bikes all the way out there in the rain to find them not home. But then we looked at the sheet and there was another address. So we biked further to the 2nd address. It turns out it was their little side of the road store, where they cook noodles and things. We pulled up and we saw the 3 kids (who were in the front of the store) turn toward their parents and say mom dad the missionaries. We went into the store and sat down with the dad at one of the tables, and just started talking. Then he called his wife over and they both sat down with us. The father hasn't been to church in about 5 years and the Mom for over a year. They have been having some family problems, her brother had just died, and her mother is in terrible condition. Last night they were taking it really hard, and the Dad for the first time in 3 years called the family together to have a family prayer. So the night before they said a family prayer for the first time in a long while, and the next day we showed up. The mom was crying and so grateful for the answer to their prayers. I was able to testify of the Plan of Salvation, and my feelings toward Trey. How I know without a doubt in my heart where he is at right now, and that after this life I’ll be able to see him again. They were so grateful. It was one of the coolest miracles to be a part of. They are going to start coming back to church at the end of May because of some things they have to take care of. But the Lord led us to a family of 5 who is longing for the gospel once again in their lives. It was amazing to see all the stuff that Satan gave us to try and stop us from getting out there. But I know it was the Lord's will to meet them and see them that night, and nothing will disrupt the Lords will. I know the Lord lead and guide us that night, because if it wasn't for the Lord we wouldn't have even thought about going to the end of our area. But it was a great miracle to be a part of, and it was great to know the Lord trusted us with that task of giving hope to that family once again! I know this work is true, there is now way it's not!
so yeah those were the two highlight of the week.
I love you guys so much, can't wait to talk to you guys. Thanks for all the support, keep loading me with pictures I love them!!
Love- Elder Rasmussen
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Being Sanctified
Hey Fam,
I was studying how to truly sanctify myself so I studied all I could about it and then I wrote my own little talk on it, this is what I came up with.
“Our success as missionaries is measured primarily by our commitment to find, teach, baptize, and confirm people, and help them become more faithful members of the church," (PMG pg 10).
Also, "We show our love for the Lord and gratitude for his Atonement by bringing souls unto him." (PMG pg 11)
Sanctification is the key to both!!
First, in order to be sanctified we have to understand our personal worth. D&C 123:16-17 "A very large ship is benefited very much by a very small helm in the time of a storm, by being kept work ways with the wind and the waves."
In a foreign country where there are millions of people, just being 19+ years old, learning a new language, I'd say we are a pretty small helm on a very large boat. But our will, kept in line with the Lord's will, we will become a great benefit to this boat.
Now we know our worth, we need to figure out how to be a benefit to the boat. It's all through sanctification!
In order to understand sanctification we need to understand the ordination of baptism.
What is baptism?
The Bible dictionary says: Baptism- from a Greek word meaning immersed! Immersed means fully into, immerged, not one hair out of the water…Immersed!
What does baptism symbolize?
Bible dictionary says- symbolized death, burial, and resurrection, and can only be done by immersion. Any other method is not baptism!
Luke 12:50- We have a baptism to be baptized with and oh how straightened we have to be as missionaries to accomplish it!
This baptism to be baptized with is SANCTIFICATION!
We must be immersed in the work, fully immersed not a hair out of the water.
Like the Bible dictionary says baptism is a symbolism of death. We in essence come on our mission and give up our old life to the Savior, we need to be buried with the Savior in the work, then we shall be resurrected walking in a newness of life.
Romans 6:4- Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death. As Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in a newness of life.
This is how we know if we've been sanctified and a successful missionary in the sight of God. We will literally walk in a newness of life. It won’t be easy, our faith will be tested, Satan will tempt us with all he's got, and we may sometimes feel there is no way out. But, if we remember the words from D&C 122:7, "know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good!" Also 1 Peter 1:7- "That the trial of your faith being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ."
We will be tried, but it's through those trials we will be sanctified with the Savior.
1 Peter 5: 7-10
7- "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
8- Be Sober, be Vigilant: Because your adversary the devil, as a roaring Lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
9-Whom resist steadfast in faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
10- But the God of all grace, who has called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you."
Through sanctification we will walk in a newness of life and be a true disciple of Jesus Christ.
D&C 121: 45-46- Lets join the ranks of God, be sanctified, and help our brothers and sisters through charity receive the blessing of this gospel.
As Jeffery R. Holland stated, "Welcome to the Apostolic Work"!!
I was studying how to truly sanctify myself so I studied all I could about it and then I wrote my own little talk on it, this is what I came up with.
“Our success as missionaries is measured primarily by our commitment to find, teach, baptize, and confirm people, and help them become more faithful members of the church," (PMG pg 10).
Also, "We show our love for the Lord and gratitude for his Atonement by bringing souls unto him." (PMG pg 11)
Sanctification is the key to both!!
First, in order to be sanctified we have to understand our personal worth. D&C 123:16-17 "A very large ship is benefited very much by a very small helm in the time of a storm, by being kept work ways with the wind and the waves."
In a foreign country where there are millions of people, just being 19+ years old, learning a new language, I'd say we are a pretty small helm on a very large boat. But our will, kept in line with the Lord's will, we will become a great benefit to this boat.
Now we know our worth, we need to figure out how to be a benefit to the boat. It's all through sanctification!
In order to understand sanctification we need to understand the ordination of baptism.
What is baptism?
The Bible dictionary says: Baptism- from a Greek word meaning immersed! Immersed means fully into, immerged, not one hair out of the water…Immersed!
What does baptism symbolize?
Bible dictionary says- symbolized death, burial, and resurrection, and can only be done by immersion. Any other method is not baptism!
Luke 12:50- We have a baptism to be baptized with and oh how straightened we have to be as missionaries to accomplish it!
This baptism to be baptized with is SANCTIFICATION!
We must be immersed in the work, fully immersed not a hair out of the water.
Like the Bible dictionary says baptism is a symbolism of death. We in essence come on our mission and give up our old life to the Savior, we need to be buried with the Savior in the work, then we shall be resurrected walking in a newness of life.
Romans 6:4- Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death. As Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in a newness of life.
This is how we know if we've been sanctified and a successful missionary in the sight of God. We will literally walk in a newness of life. It won’t be easy, our faith will be tested, Satan will tempt us with all he's got, and we may sometimes feel there is no way out. But, if we remember the words from D&C 122:7, "know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good!" Also 1 Peter 1:7- "That the trial of your faith being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ."
We will be tried, but it's through those trials we will be sanctified with the Savior.
1 Peter 5: 7-10
7- "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
8- Be Sober, be Vigilant: Because your adversary the devil, as a roaring Lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
9-Whom resist steadfast in faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
10- But the God of all grace, who has called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you."
Through sanctification we will walk in a newness of life and be a true disciple of Jesus Christ.
D&C 121: 45-46- Lets join the ranks of God, be sanctified, and help our brothers and sisters through charity receive the blessing of this gospel.
As Jeffery R. Holland stated, "Welcome to the Apostolic Work"!!
Monday, April 19, 2010
There is Nothing Like a Ruby!
Hey guys what’s up!!??
Wow that is amazing about the ward. This place is amazing. I love Taiwan they are going to love it too. Start studying Preach My Gospel lessons it will make learning the language a lot easier because you'll already know the lessons. But that is way cool, that's a good addition to the mission.
But our investigators… Yeah Kelly is just I don't know. Her parents won’t allow her to meet with us at all. So you know, what can you do? But yeah Huang Bike, he is a stud! He had his baptism interview last night and passed!!!!! YEAH!! So next Sunday he is getting baptized. He has such a sweet heart, and is so ready. He is in his mid 60's. But then Wu Guan Chen, his relationship with his mom is going really, really well. He is working full time from 2 in the afternoon to 2 at night and he is giving some of the money to help his family out. He is such an amazing person. Watching him pass the sacrament for the first time in church just gave me chills. Went from smoking and stuff from 14 years of age, to holding the priesthood, the Atonement truly is a wonderful thing. But yeah our other investigators are doing well, we are just working with them, and helping them develop their faith in Jesus Christ and trying to get solid progression. Our Mexican, yeah he's Mexican, not really but yeah he keeps telling us what he thinks the Church should do to make it easier for people to learn about it. It's way funny, because his suggestions are just write another Book of Mormon in simpler characters, and with like single line things. Yeah I don't think he really grasps the idea of the importance of the Book of Mormon or something!! But yeah I don't know if he's willing to progress right now, but we'll meet with him a couple more times and see if he's willing. The Lord has blessed us with a ton of investigators, too many to even list off for you guys. Just know that the Lord is blessing us, and is helping us take care of this area in the Taiwan Taipei Mission.
This week was cool! Obviously the highlight for the week was Huang bike's interview. But also on Wed, after English I have an English student whose English name is violet. I talked to her after English to see if we could come by her house and share our message with her. It turns out that her husband is in my companion's class. They are both 31 years old. So we went and visited them. They are so good. They both committed to prayer and read the scriptures. I can just picture them in white, and then getting sealed together for eternity. It's such a cool blessing for us with our wife and families to live together forever.
But this week we were on Thursday with 0 new investigators on the week. Friday we went on exchanges. I had another missionary come into our area with me. Our goal for new investigators for the week was 15. So yeah we had 3 days to get 15 new investigators which is really intense. But on our exchange, we had a couple lessons set up, but they all fell through. So we had a plain open schedule in front of us, of about 6 hours. So we just went out and talked to EVERYONE!! The Lord blessed us in our efforts. On the street we taught 5 lessons and found 4 new investigators. It was the sickest thing ever. People are so prepared, and if were just willing to open our mouths we can find them and help them hear this gospel. It's so cool to stop someone on the street, even though they are busy they are willing to sit and listen to you. Then you share the message of the restoration with them. The restoration has power behind it. God the Father and Jesus Christ appearing to a young man by the name of Joseph Smith. That is a beautiful thing. Then through the Book of Mormon, which is evidence of that experience, we can know the truth of all these things. I love pulling out the Book of Mormon in my teaching on the street. It's something about it, really you just open the book, and the power comes out of the words and surrounds you and the person you’re teaching on the street. Man I love missionary work. It's so fun to see people willing to listen to our unique message.
This week we ended the week with 11 new investigators. Even though we didn't hit our goal, the Lord blessed us with a bunch of miracles. Getting 11 new investigators in 3 days, it's pretty crazy. We got 3 one day then 4 then another 4. It was so cool to see person after person allowing us to sit down with them and teach them the gospel.
But yeah I discovered something yesterday at church. I don't like church. It's the most stressful 3 hours of the missionary week. Man oh Man, just sitting by the door hoping the people that said they would come will actually come. It makes me so stressed! I don't like it at all. I don't know if I’ve told you this before but I call it “What’s in the elevator?” There are categories: OK, Silver, and Ruby. We sit at the front of the chapel and watch the elevator as it comes up, hoping our investigators are inside. It's way fun, because we watch it go down to the first floor and we hope that it will stop on the 2nd floor. Then we watch it open and hope that there are Rubies (investigators) inside, but most of the time because we have a huge ward we get silvers and OKs, which are just members of the ward. Yeah we still love them too, and are more than willing to serve them. But seeing those Rubies is a feeling like none other. They come out of the elevator and into a beautiful atmosphere of a bunch of people singing. It really is a safe place from the damaging things of the world. I love being in church, it's such a good place to relax and just focus on the Lord and his teachings. You truly can leave church with a spiritual shield around you and should leave like that. So yeah that's our elevator game, we enjoy playing it every week. It's the only thing that keeps us from not getting to stressed waiting and hoping that the investigators will come!!
I’m so glad that you guys are just moving right along in the business. Just keep giving thanks to the Lord because I know it's through Him all of this is happening. I know dad is a stud and sweet at what he does, but just always have thanks in your heart. I’m glad to hear that you guys are all doing well.. Get off that game!! It ruined my life and I don't want it to keep ruining others lives. Every Monday morning I come here to email, I see lots of young kids who are playing computer games and wasting their lives. There is absolutely no point. Name one thing you gain from it...NOTHING!! If I would have played piano or golfed the amount of time that I played that stupid game then I would be a masterful pianist and a pro golfer. Now I’m on my mission, trying to learn the piano step by step in case someone needs me to help them in a meeting. Do all you can to get rid of that devil's tool called the x-box or any games at that! Man it bugs me to look back at life and see that the devil had me hooked, and I couldn't even see it at the time. He stopped me from progressing at all. And I would even say most of my problems came from being hooked on x-box. Because being hooked on that I truly believe stops us from feeling the spirit more often like we should. Man it is a tool Satan has perfected!! And the language they use on x-box live…I don't even want to start talking about that. I can't believe I accepted that man I was so desensitized before my mission. I was so wrong!!
Glad to hear that all the kids are doing great! I love having a talented good looking family. You guys are so awesome. Keep it up kids and do all you can to develop Christlike attributes every single day!!
The office looks amazing! I wish I was there to personally experience it. But who knows, maybe I’ll be able to train on the golf thing if we have it by the time I get back. But yeah thank you guys so much for being an amazing family and always blessing me and helping me in all that I do.
I know this Church is true, I have no doubt in my heart that it is Jesus Christ's true church on the earth. I also know that we can all have personal relationships with Heavenly Father if we want to. He's more than willing to talk and communicate with us, but it's up to us to start and build that relationship. I’m working on it, and have felt his love more than ever. I love this work, and am trying to give my whole will to my Savior, in hopes that I’ll find a new life and be able to be a good dad, husband, friend, and family member the rest of my life. I’m so grateful I get to serve my God and Savior!! I say this in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Thank you guys so much. Keep sending me pictures of the family I love it!!!!
Love,
Elder Rasmussen
Wow that is amazing about the ward. This place is amazing. I love Taiwan they are going to love it too. Start studying Preach My Gospel lessons it will make learning the language a lot easier because you'll already know the lessons. But that is way cool, that's a good addition to the mission.
But our investigators… Yeah Kelly is just I don't know. Her parents won’t allow her to meet with us at all. So you know, what can you do? But yeah Huang Bike, he is a stud! He had his baptism interview last night and passed!!!!! YEAH!! So next Sunday he is getting baptized. He has such a sweet heart, and is so ready. He is in his mid 60's. But then Wu Guan Chen, his relationship with his mom is going really, really well. He is working full time from 2 in the afternoon to 2 at night and he is giving some of the money to help his family out. He is such an amazing person. Watching him pass the sacrament for the first time in church just gave me chills. Went from smoking and stuff from 14 years of age, to holding the priesthood, the Atonement truly is a wonderful thing. But yeah our other investigators are doing well, we are just working with them, and helping them develop their faith in Jesus Christ and trying to get solid progression. Our Mexican, yeah he's Mexican, not really but yeah he keeps telling us what he thinks the Church should do to make it easier for people to learn about it. It's way funny, because his suggestions are just write another Book of Mormon in simpler characters, and with like single line things. Yeah I don't think he really grasps the idea of the importance of the Book of Mormon or something!! But yeah I don't know if he's willing to progress right now, but we'll meet with him a couple more times and see if he's willing. The Lord has blessed us with a ton of investigators, too many to even list off for you guys. Just know that the Lord is blessing us, and is helping us take care of this area in the Taiwan Taipei Mission.
This week was cool! Obviously the highlight for the week was Huang bike's interview. But also on Wed, after English I have an English student whose English name is violet. I talked to her after English to see if we could come by her house and share our message with her. It turns out that her husband is in my companion's class. They are both 31 years old. So we went and visited them. They are so good. They both committed to prayer and read the scriptures. I can just picture them in white, and then getting sealed together for eternity. It's such a cool blessing for us with our wife and families to live together forever.
But this week we were on Thursday with 0 new investigators on the week. Friday we went on exchanges. I had another missionary come into our area with me. Our goal for new investigators for the week was 15. So yeah we had 3 days to get 15 new investigators which is really intense. But on our exchange, we had a couple lessons set up, but they all fell through. So we had a plain open schedule in front of us, of about 6 hours. So we just went out and talked to EVERYONE!! The Lord blessed us in our efforts. On the street we taught 5 lessons and found 4 new investigators. It was the sickest thing ever. People are so prepared, and if were just willing to open our mouths we can find them and help them hear this gospel. It's so cool to stop someone on the street, even though they are busy they are willing to sit and listen to you. Then you share the message of the restoration with them. The restoration has power behind it. God the Father and Jesus Christ appearing to a young man by the name of Joseph Smith. That is a beautiful thing. Then through the Book of Mormon, which is evidence of that experience, we can know the truth of all these things. I love pulling out the Book of Mormon in my teaching on the street. It's something about it, really you just open the book, and the power comes out of the words and surrounds you and the person you’re teaching on the street. Man I love missionary work. It's so fun to see people willing to listen to our unique message.
This week we ended the week with 11 new investigators. Even though we didn't hit our goal, the Lord blessed us with a bunch of miracles. Getting 11 new investigators in 3 days, it's pretty crazy. We got 3 one day then 4 then another 4. It was so cool to see person after person allowing us to sit down with them and teach them the gospel.
But yeah I discovered something yesterday at church. I don't like church. It's the most stressful 3 hours of the missionary week. Man oh Man, just sitting by the door hoping the people that said they would come will actually come. It makes me so stressed! I don't like it at all. I don't know if I’ve told you this before but I call it “What’s in the elevator?” There are categories: OK, Silver, and Ruby. We sit at the front of the chapel and watch the elevator as it comes up, hoping our investigators are inside. It's way fun, because we watch it go down to the first floor and we hope that it will stop on the 2nd floor. Then we watch it open and hope that there are Rubies (investigators) inside, but most of the time because we have a huge ward we get silvers and OKs, which are just members of the ward. Yeah we still love them too, and are more than willing to serve them. But seeing those Rubies is a feeling like none other. They come out of the elevator and into a beautiful atmosphere of a bunch of people singing. It really is a safe place from the damaging things of the world. I love being in church, it's such a good place to relax and just focus on the Lord and his teachings. You truly can leave church with a spiritual shield around you and should leave like that. So yeah that's our elevator game, we enjoy playing it every week. It's the only thing that keeps us from not getting to stressed waiting and hoping that the investigators will come!!
I’m so glad that you guys are just moving right along in the business. Just keep giving thanks to the Lord because I know it's through Him all of this is happening. I know dad is a stud and sweet at what he does, but just always have thanks in your heart. I’m glad to hear that you guys are all doing well.. Get off that game!! It ruined my life and I don't want it to keep ruining others lives. Every Monday morning I come here to email, I see lots of young kids who are playing computer games and wasting their lives. There is absolutely no point. Name one thing you gain from it...NOTHING!! If I would have played piano or golfed the amount of time that I played that stupid game then I would be a masterful pianist and a pro golfer. Now I’m on my mission, trying to learn the piano step by step in case someone needs me to help them in a meeting. Do all you can to get rid of that devil's tool called the x-box or any games at that! Man it bugs me to look back at life and see that the devil had me hooked, and I couldn't even see it at the time. He stopped me from progressing at all. And I would even say most of my problems came from being hooked on x-box. Because being hooked on that I truly believe stops us from feeling the spirit more often like we should. Man it is a tool Satan has perfected!! And the language they use on x-box live…I don't even want to start talking about that. I can't believe I accepted that man I was so desensitized before my mission. I was so wrong!!
Glad to hear that all the kids are doing great! I love having a talented good looking family. You guys are so awesome. Keep it up kids and do all you can to develop Christlike attributes every single day!!
The office looks amazing! I wish I was there to personally experience it. But who knows, maybe I’ll be able to train on the golf thing if we have it by the time I get back. But yeah thank you guys so much for being an amazing family and always blessing me and helping me in all that I do.
I know this Church is true, I have no doubt in my heart that it is Jesus Christ's true church on the earth. I also know that we can all have personal relationships with Heavenly Father if we want to. He's more than willing to talk and communicate with us, but it's up to us to start and build that relationship. I’m working on it, and have felt his love more than ever. I love this work, and am trying to give my whole will to my Savior, in hopes that I’ll find a new life and be able to be a good dad, husband, friend, and family member the rest of my life. I’m so grateful I get to serve my God and Savior!! I say this in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Thank you guys so much. Keep sending me pictures of the family I love it!!!!
Love,
Elder Rasmussen
Monday, April 12, 2010
It Literally Thrust a Dagger to my Heart!
Hey Family!!!
I know isn't that crazy that Steve comes home in a couple of months. Man time just flies by so dang fast. Angie, Angie, Angie, haha Utah is a breading place for marriage. But I guess she's just following her brother’s footsteps. Hey when does Camille Carroll go to the MTC, her picture has been up in the mission office for a while for the missionaries that are coming in July. She's going to love it, and her Chinese is probably already sick, so she'll have that much more fun.
Glad you’re doing well!! I still haven't seen pictures of the office?! But thanks for the updates and how everyone is doing. I’m doing great, still as happy as ever. It's crazy this transfer is already on its 5th week. It's flown by so fast it's amazing. But there has been some cool stuff happen.
Well to start off on a bad note, both of our investigators who were going to get baptized on the 25th of this month are having some trials. Our huang bike guy, he is smoking. He told us he wasn't, but we’re hoping he has the thought process that after he's baptized he doesn't have to smoke. But we'll see him tomorrow and lay down the law with him. Then Kelly, her parents are not allowing her to meet with us anymore. It's sad to see so many good people who want to receive the blessings of this gospel, but are denied because of their parents who have a pole in front of their faces because of traditions in the family. But here is a run down our my week
Mon
Yeah it was p-day, so I just went and we hit some golf ball, went to an all you can eat grill place it was amazing, and played a board game with the district "The Knights of Camelot" yeah I know it sounds so mature. Haha, we were freaking out literally acting like we were knights and stuff it was way funny. I was laughing pretty hard the whole time.
Tues
We had district meeting today. It was really good, we talked about using the Book of Mormon while you contact and find on the street. At the end of each district meeting we usually have a role play to practice what we learned. This time we went outside and really tried what we learned to find on the street. I said a prayer and asked Heavenly Father if there was anyone that needed to hear the gospel to allow me to run into them. So we went out, I got rejection after rejection trying to use the Book of Mormon to help people understand these things. Then at last a lady was walking down the side walk. I started talking to her and found out she had no religion. Then I started talking to her about God and how he wants us to gain happiness and peace in this life. Teaching with the scriptures I was able to have a good solid lesson with her on the street. We prayed together and she committed to start praying on her own. She lived in another area, but I set her up to meet with them. It was a cool miracle, that God was willing to put me in her path so I could help her come unto the gospel, and using the Book of Mormon teach her restored truths. Also we met a way funny guy. He lived in Mexico for like 20 years. He such a Mexican, I love it. The way he walks and talks it's so funny. We love him. He's a Math Man. He is really, really smart, and speaks perfect Mexico English. He truly is a Chinese Gangsta. But the first time we met with him we were able to set a date with him, and he's working toward that right now. Haha he's a really interesting guy, I love my mission I meet so many new people. But the cool thing is they all have one thing in common, the light of Christ somewhere inside and the need to come back to God's Fold, it's so cool being on a mission.
Wed
Today we had zone conference. It was so cool. We talked about using the Book of Mormon in finding and sanctifying ourselves as servants of the Lord. It reminded me of when I went to talk to Elder Gassin (he wrote you that little note) I asked him what I had to do to have the Lord accept my mission. He shared a bunch of scriptures that let him know that question. So after zone conference the next morning in personal study I studied sanctification and what more I could do to be completely sanctified to the Lord, and be the best tool in His hands possible. It's not hard, it's going to be a process, but it's worth it. To give my soul to the Lord, He will most definitely help me find a newness of life, that will bless the lives of all those from here on out!! I love my Savior, Jesus Christ.
Thurs
Yeah today stunk just because of the Kelly situation. We had her scheduled at 7 pm to come to the church. It hit 7:15 and we gave her a call because she wasn't there yet. She said she talked to her parents and they don't want her to come to church or meet with us anymore. When I found that out, it literally thrust a dagger to my heart and cut it into a million pieces. It's sad to see a bunch of people that their salvation is put on hold because of other family member’s decisions. But she will be coming to English class on Wed. So we'll sit down with her and hopefully help her through this. But man it's sad; I don't know what to say when it comes to this stuff. Because it's not my choice, I’m not their parents. It really is not cool that they make decisions for their kids, even though their kids have found the truth, and the others aren't willing to search it out. But we'll try to keep working with her and helping her along.
Fri
We met a way funny guy tonight. Yesterday in front of a bike shop, a random guy walked by me. I told him we want to help him know Jesus Christ. He said OK, and set up a time for today. Haha it was funny. He came and he is the funniest guy I’ve ever met. He was a little drunk but still way funny. He kept speaking Taiwanese so obviously I didn't understand. Our members that were with us were translating into Mandarin. It was funny, we were all just laughing the whole time together, it was a grand old time. He said he wants to learn more about Jesus, so yeah we'll work with him, and I bet he'll come along. It's going to be rough everything in the word of wisdom you can break he pretty much does, because he's a blue collared worker and they all do. So it shall be interesting.
Sat
Well the start of conference. Jeffery R. Holland is a stud. But I loved conference it's so uplifting to see our righteous loving amazing leaders in a world that ever so needs their guidance and counsel. I noticed the main theme was family. How grateful I am for you guys, my family, and the love and support you give me. I’m so grateful for the opportunity I have to communicate and be with every single one of you. You guys are my world, and I’m so grateful I have you guys. Just always get along, be strong together, and work hard with each other to resist temptations of the evil one. But something tonight that happened was sweet. We had to split lessons at 8. So my companion was teaching two guys, and I was teaching a girl. They were both good lessons. My lesson, she is already Christian. I explained the restoration and the power of the priesthood. She then asked me, so what you’re saying is this is the only true and whole church. I kinda hesitated for a minute and thought in my head I was like that's a bold statement, then I thought back to conference. This is the most important message any will hear. So I looked her in the eyes and told her YES. Then she asked about the priesthood power, she said can I heal. I said if it’s God’s will. Then she said who has this power. I explained who can have it, and I boldly proclaimed that I hold that power of the priesthood given from God by the laying on of hands. I felt the spirit rush through me as I told of the power given to me from God. She set a baptismal date and is really good. Then after my companion came in and told me that both of the guys he sat down with also set baptismal dates. Haha so in less than an hour we had 3 new baptismal dates. It was a really cool thing, we were so excited. It was a huge blessing from God. God really is watching over us and guiding us in this work.
Sun
Today we continued with conference. It was sweet once again like always. But a cool thing happened; on the bus to conference there was a70+ year old lady that had a Christian cross on a necklace. She asked my companion what church we are. We started talking and found out that she joined a Christian church like 1 year ago, and she was going to church. We had a member on the bus with us, so the member talked allot of Taiwanese with her. She ended up coming with us to church. Haha, we had her do a church tour, and then she stayed for about 40 minutes of conference. She really liked it. That was way cool. But then on the way back from conference later that day, we were on the bus, and guess who got on again. Yeah it was the same lady. She was talking to us, and really liked what she saw in conference, so she asked how she could watch the rest of it. Haha, we have her number and address and will be meeting with her soon, and hopefully we can help her understand the truthfulness of this beautiful message.
Well family…things are going great!! I know this work is true and God's Work. I know he leads and guides us every day. These days are getting worse and worse, read the scriptures, understand them, and build a spiritual shield around you so that Satan can't touch you. I know without a doubt in my heart that Christ lives. He is our savior and through his atoning sacrifice we are saved and cleansed from sins. I love communicating with my Heavenly Father through prayer and I know that he hears my prayers and answers them. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to serve Him, and share this gospel with everyone. This gospel is true there is no way it's not. Joseph Smith restored this Church, there is no way he didn't. I love this Church, and will do all I can to share its message with the world.
Keep working hard and doing all you can to be righteous followers of our Savior Jesus Christ.
Love Elder Rasmussen
"Just have Faith and Go Do"
I know isn't that crazy that Steve comes home in a couple of months. Man time just flies by so dang fast. Angie, Angie, Angie, haha Utah is a breading place for marriage. But I guess she's just following her brother’s footsteps. Hey when does Camille Carroll go to the MTC, her picture has been up in the mission office for a while for the missionaries that are coming in July. She's going to love it, and her Chinese is probably already sick, so she'll have that much more fun.
Glad you’re doing well!! I still haven't seen pictures of the office?! But thanks for the updates and how everyone is doing. I’m doing great, still as happy as ever. It's crazy this transfer is already on its 5th week. It's flown by so fast it's amazing. But there has been some cool stuff happen.
Well to start off on a bad note, both of our investigators who were going to get baptized on the 25th of this month are having some trials. Our huang bike guy, he is smoking. He told us he wasn't, but we’re hoping he has the thought process that after he's baptized he doesn't have to smoke. But we'll see him tomorrow and lay down the law with him. Then Kelly, her parents are not allowing her to meet with us anymore. It's sad to see so many good people who want to receive the blessings of this gospel, but are denied because of their parents who have a pole in front of their faces because of traditions in the family. But here is a run down our my week
Mon
Yeah it was p-day, so I just went and we hit some golf ball, went to an all you can eat grill place it was amazing, and played a board game with the district "The Knights of Camelot" yeah I know it sounds so mature. Haha, we were freaking out literally acting like we were knights and stuff it was way funny. I was laughing pretty hard the whole time.
Tues
We had district meeting today. It was really good, we talked about using the Book of Mormon while you contact and find on the street. At the end of each district meeting we usually have a role play to practice what we learned. This time we went outside and really tried what we learned to find on the street. I said a prayer and asked Heavenly Father if there was anyone that needed to hear the gospel to allow me to run into them. So we went out, I got rejection after rejection trying to use the Book of Mormon to help people understand these things. Then at last a lady was walking down the side walk. I started talking to her and found out she had no religion. Then I started talking to her about God and how he wants us to gain happiness and peace in this life. Teaching with the scriptures I was able to have a good solid lesson with her on the street. We prayed together and she committed to start praying on her own. She lived in another area, but I set her up to meet with them. It was a cool miracle, that God was willing to put me in her path so I could help her come unto the gospel, and using the Book of Mormon teach her restored truths. Also we met a way funny guy. He lived in Mexico for like 20 years. He such a Mexican, I love it. The way he walks and talks it's so funny. We love him. He's a Math Man. He is really, really smart, and speaks perfect Mexico English. He truly is a Chinese Gangsta. But the first time we met with him we were able to set a date with him, and he's working toward that right now. Haha he's a really interesting guy, I love my mission I meet so many new people. But the cool thing is they all have one thing in common, the light of Christ somewhere inside and the need to come back to God's Fold, it's so cool being on a mission.
Wed
Today we had zone conference. It was so cool. We talked about using the Book of Mormon in finding and sanctifying ourselves as servants of the Lord. It reminded me of when I went to talk to Elder Gassin (he wrote you that little note) I asked him what I had to do to have the Lord accept my mission. He shared a bunch of scriptures that let him know that question. So after zone conference the next morning in personal study I studied sanctification and what more I could do to be completely sanctified to the Lord, and be the best tool in His hands possible. It's not hard, it's going to be a process, but it's worth it. To give my soul to the Lord, He will most definitely help me find a newness of life, that will bless the lives of all those from here on out!! I love my Savior, Jesus Christ.
Thurs
Yeah today stunk just because of the Kelly situation. We had her scheduled at 7 pm to come to the church. It hit 7:15 and we gave her a call because she wasn't there yet. She said she talked to her parents and they don't want her to come to church or meet with us anymore. When I found that out, it literally thrust a dagger to my heart and cut it into a million pieces. It's sad to see a bunch of people that their salvation is put on hold because of other family member’s decisions. But she will be coming to English class on Wed. So we'll sit down with her and hopefully help her through this. But man it's sad; I don't know what to say when it comes to this stuff. Because it's not my choice, I’m not their parents. It really is not cool that they make decisions for their kids, even though their kids have found the truth, and the others aren't willing to search it out. But we'll try to keep working with her and helping her along.
Fri
We met a way funny guy tonight. Yesterday in front of a bike shop, a random guy walked by me. I told him we want to help him know Jesus Christ. He said OK, and set up a time for today. Haha it was funny. He came and he is the funniest guy I’ve ever met. He was a little drunk but still way funny. He kept speaking Taiwanese so obviously I didn't understand. Our members that were with us were translating into Mandarin. It was funny, we were all just laughing the whole time together, it was a grand old time. He said he wants to learn more about Jesus, so yeah we'll work with him, and I bet he'll come along. It's going to be rough everything in the word of wisdom you can break he pretty much does, because he's a blue collared worker and they all do. So it shall be interesting.
Sat
Well the start of conference. Jeffery R. Holland is a stud. But I loved conference it's so uplifting to see our righteous loving amazing leaders in a world that ever so needs their guidance and counsel. I noticed the main theme was family. How grateful I am for you guys, my family, and the love and support you give me. I’m so grateful for the opportunity I have to communicate and be with every single one of you. You guys are my world, and I’m so grateful I have you guys. Just always get along, be strong together, and work hard with each other to resist temptations of the evil one. But something tonight that happened was sweet. We had to split lessons at 8. So my companion was teaching two guys, and I was teaching a girl. They were both good lessons. My lesson, she is already Christian. I explained the restoration and the power of the priesthood. She then asked me, so what you’re saying is this is the only true and whole church. I kinda hesitated for a minute and thought in my head I was like that's a bold statement, then I thought back to conference. This is the most important message any will hear. So I looked her in the eyes and told her YES. Then she asked about the priesthood power, she said can I heal. I said if it’s God’s will. Then she said who has this power. I explained who can have it, and I boldly proclaimed that I hold that power of the priesthood given from God by the laying on of hands. I felt the spirit rush through me as I told of the power given to me from God. She set a baptismal date and is really good. Then after my companion came in and told me that both of the guys he sat down with also set baptismal dates. Haha so in less than an hour we had 3 new baptismal dates. It was a really cool thing, we were so excited. It was a huge blessing from God. God really is watching over us and guiding us in this work.
Sun
Today we continued with conference. It was sweet once again like always. But a cool thing happened; on the bus to conference there was a70+ year old lady that had a Christian cross on a necklace. She asked my companion what church we are. We started talking and found out that she joined a Christian church like 1 year ago, and she was going to church. We had a member on the bus with us, so the member talked allot of Taiwanese with her. She ended up coming with us to church. Haha, we had her do a church tour, and then she stayed for about 40 minutes of conference. She really liked it. That was way cool. But then on the way back from conference later that day, we were on the bus, and guess who got on again. Yeah it was the same lady. She was talking to us, and really liked what she saw in conference, so she asked how she could watch the rest of it. Haha, we have her number and address and will be meeting with her soon, and hopefully we can help her understand the truthfulness of this beautiful message.
Well family…things are going great!! I know this work is true and God's Work. I know he leads and guides us every day. These days are getting worse and worse, read the scriptures, understand them, and build a spiritual shield around you so that Satan can't touch you. I know without a doubt in my heart that Christ lives. He is our savior and through his atoning sacrifice we are saved and cleansed from sins. I love communicating with my Heavenly Father through prayer and I know that he hears my prayers and answers them. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to serve Him, and share this gospel with everyone. This gospel is true there is no way it's not. Joseph Smith restored this Church, there is no way he didn't. I love this Church, and will do all I can to share its message with the world.
Keep working hard and doing all you can to be righteous followers of our Savior Jesus Christ.
Love Elder Rasmussen
"Just have Faith and Go Do"
Monday, April 5, 2010
A Sweet Miracle!
Hey Family!!!
Well I’m glad to hear that you guys had a great week. Everyone is looking great and looks like you guys are having a fun life. I’m glad to see that. Josh looks like a stud in that picture with the air soft gun, looks likes he changed his hair it looks good. Cade is huge, haha what a stud. Britton just looks like a pure gansta. And Abby yeah she's just amazing little Abby.
But my week was an amazing week. Full of miracles. It was awesome to be a part of so many miracles and see that Lords hands in all of this.
First of all our investigators rundown. We have 2 set up for the 25th of April. One is looking more promising than the other. But we have faith and hope and will try to help both of them reach that goal. Then we have about 5 others for the 2nd of May. So things are looking good. We’re just trying to keep on top of things and get them prepared to be baptized and to gain a testimony of the truthfulness of these things. Wu Guan Chen, yeah he just keeps getting in more and more trouble. He wanted to go on a mission for 3 weeks because the mission needed someone for that long. But he was to scared to ask his mom, so he had is brother tell his mom a lie. Yeah well she found out and is really mad, and now she knows he got baptized behind her back also. So yeah yesterday she wouldn't let him go to church. He's really sad right now, he's in a huge cross roads and hope he can trust the Lord to help him out of it. But it's sad to see him not as happy because all this stuff has been happening.
But on the street I got 2 scooters to pull over. They were both way sweet people. Both didn't live in our area, but it was really cool to "Teach when you find and Find when you teach" They both were very receptive and I was able to teach them about our living prophet to guide us and lead us to follow God. They both also set up for the other missionaries to meet with them. So that was way cool. I really feel like over the last few weeks as I’ve been studying charity and trying to prayer and do to develop charity. I really feel like that Lord has helped me develop my charity a little bit more. It's been cool to see the change of my contacting and teaching when you have more love for the people.
A sweet Miracle- I was on exchanges with the zone leaders. One of them came to my area. Elder Jensen. So we had an hour to go out and contact. So we sat on the bench to say a prayer and figure out who specifically we wanted to find. Before we started praying I had a really cool feeling come over me and say a dad with 2 kids. So I told elder Jensen my feeling then we prayed about it and felt good about it. So we set out to the area we had previously picked the night before in planning. We spent 40 minutes talking to everyone and no success. I bent over my handle bars again and said another prayer pleading that I could find that dad with 2 kids. As I finished my prayer a man and women passed me. I started to talk to them and they were really friendly. I was just being myself with them which is having fun and messing around with them. Then he said my daughter is 19 in college right now. I was like really I’m 19 too, that's cool. Then I was like wait, how many kids do you have. He looked at me held up 2 fingers and said 2. one is 19 and the other is 17. My heart leaped with joy, A MIRACLE!! It was so amazing to be a part of a miracle that there is no way could have happened without the hand of the Lord. I was so happy, I was filled with joy. He showed us around his huge building he was going to buy for his business (he's the boss) and set up for the next night to meet with us. Well the next night comes around and he never comes. I was so bummed, I thought our miracle guy was gone. But then that night in planning we planned and said, you know what I want to find a lesson at 3 o'clock. So we wrote down on our plan, find a lesson. The next day at about 1 we were out contacting and I had a feeling to call him. So I called him while we were out tracting. He was way happy to talk to me on the phone. Then guess what time he set up for. 2 hours later at 3!! Haha so there was 2 miracles in 2 days that were obviously led by the Lord. The cool thing was, when me and Elder Jensen first found him elder Jensen didn't connect that's who we prayed for. then as I said the gratitude prayer for us after we found him and thanked the Lord for allowing us to see that miracle and find that dad, it finally clicked that we found exactly what we were looking for. It was a really cool experience to be apart of. Then when we scheduled the lesson for 3 then after the dad said OK 3 I’ll come. My real companion Elder Youd was like see we are going to get a lesson at 3. Then I finally realized that another miracle had just happened. Haha it was sweet. I love being an advocate in the hands of the Lord. He truly does lead this work and allow us to see miracles according to our faith and diligence. We don't see miracles to build our faith, but we see miracles according to our faith.
Wu Family- So my old companion Elder Daniels. He found a family with a dad that wants his family to join a Christian church. But together we didn't have a chance to meet with him. so Elder Youd and I finally got the chance to meet with him. Oh my gosh they are so Golden. The dad is 25 years old with two kids. 2 girls 4 and 2 years old. They all payed attention the whole time. And the dad and mom were asking question the whole time. The dad connected that his old baptism wasn't good because the person didn't have the authority. So that is way cool to realize on a first lesson. Also they set a baptism date as a family on the 2nd of May. They are such a cute little family. They have a great family relationship and will really make a great family in the ward. So that was way cool to be able to teach them. We used a lot of pictures to try and keep the kids involved and the dad loved the restoration and they really understood it very good. It was an awesome lesson, and this week on Friday we are having a family night with them and other families int he ward. So I’m way excited for that.
Bella- Yeah she is way cool. This was the 2nd time we've sat down with her. She brought a friend this time because she wants her to listen to the gospel too. She also set a baptismal date. We taught the 1st lesson again because of her friend not hearing anything yet. She understood it a lot more the 2nd time which is really good. She is doing great, she loves reading and praying and is progressing really good. She's going to be a great member too when she is baptized.
Kelly- She is on the 4-25-2010. She is doing great she had some concerns, but we sat down with her and helped her solve them. She is reading, praying and repenting. She is awesome. She's growing a lot. I remember the first day she came in she was sweating and way nervous to meet with us. But now she's just like our friend, it's amazing to see the change the gospel brings about in people. So I’m loving this it's so awesome!!!
Then we had a kid the other week who is 23 years old. Outside he came up to us and was like I want to learn English. So we set him up for Saturday night. So we met with him, he brought his friend along with him. We didn't end up teaching much English, but taught them the first lesson. They are both way good, and will be good in the future. They were both asking a lot of questions and understanding it well. The lesson started pretty sketchy but it ended very good. They both committed to prayer and read. They are going to be really, really good. But something really cool happened in the lesson.. When we were explaining the Book of Mormon we were flipping through he pictures in the front of it. We got to the picture with Nephi and his family, holding the Liahona. All of a sudden he was like wait a minute. We all paused and looked at him. He was like about 2 weeks ago I had a dream about that picture. We were like are you sure. Yup he knew it was that picture. Haha that was sweet, that he had seen that same picture in a dream, can you say being in the right place that the Lord wants you to be in. He thought that was way cool, haha we had one member with us that didn't believe him. Haha it was a funny situation!!
But yeah, I’m loving my life. I’m really so happy, I don't even know man. Being close to the Lord, working hard every day, and doing what the Lord would have me do. Doesn't get much better than that. But I know without a doubt that Jesus Christ lives. He will come again to rule over us, and redeem us from death and sin. Then we will return to live with Him who gave us life our Heavenly Father. I can't wait for the day to see my Savior Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father again. I don't that right now we must live worthy and be obedient to have the spirit with us, in order to stay as close as we can to them!! I know that Joseph Smith restored this gospel, and the keys of the priesthood were given to him. Through these keys, we can live together forever as a family. I love my family so much, so I’m grateful for this amazing perfect gift. I love our living prophet Thomas S. Monson and the leadership he gives from the Lord. This church is true, there’s no way it couldn't be!! Hold tight to the words of God, and we'll all receive a life of happiness and peace!! This gospel is truly the only way to achieve happiness.
Well I’m glad to hear that you guys had a great week. Everyone is looking great and looks like you guys are having a fun life. I’m glad to see that. Josh looks like a stud in that picture with the air soft gun, looks likes he changed his hair it looks good. Cade is huge, haha what a stud. Britton just looks like a pure gansta. And Abby yeah she's just amazing little Abby.
But my week was an amazing week. Full of miracles. It was awesome to be a part of so many miracles and see that Lords hands in all of this.
First of all our investigators rundown. We have 2 set up for the 25th of April. One is looking more promising than the other. But we have faith and hope and will try to help both of them reach that goal. Then we have about 5 others for the 2nd of May. So things are looking good. We’re just trying to keep on top of things and get them prepared to be baptized and to gain a testimony of the truthfulness of these things. Wu Guan Chen, yeah he just keeps getting in more and more trouble. He wanted to go on a mission for 3 weeks because the mission needed someone for that long. But he was to scared to ask his mom, so he had is brother tell his mom a lie. Yeah well she found out and is really mad, and now she knows he got baptized behind her back also. So yeah yesterday she wouldn't let him go to church. He's really sad right now, he's in a huge cross roads and hope he can trust the Lord to help him out of it. But it's sad to see him not as happy because all this stuff has been happening.
But on the street I got 2 scooters to pull over. They were both way sweet people. Both didn't live in our area, but it was really cool to "Teach when you find and Find when you teach" They both were very receptive and I was able to teach them about our living prophet to guide us and lead us to follow God. They both also set up for the other missionaries to meet with them. So that was way cool. I really feel like over the last few weeks as I’ve been studying charity and trying to prayer and do to develop charity. I really feel like that Lord has helped me develop my charity a little bit more. It's been cool to see the change of my contacting and teaching when you have more love for the people.
A sweet Miracle- I was on exchanges with the zone leaders. One of them came to my area. Elder Jensen. So we had an hour to go out and contact. So we sat on the bench to say a prayer and figure out who specifically we wanted to find. Before we started praying I had a really cool feeling come over me and say a dad with 2 kids. So I told elder Jensen my feeling then we prayed about it and felt good about it. So we set out to the area we had previously picked the night before in planning. We spent 40 minutes talking to everyone and no success. I bent over my handle bars again and said another prayer pleading that I could find that dad with 2 kids. As I finished my prayer a man and women passed me. I started to talk to them and they were really friendly. I was just being myself with them which is having fun and messing around with them. Then he said my daughter is 19 in college right now. I was like really I’m 19 too, that's cool. Then I was like wait, how many kids do you have. He looked at me held up 2 fingers and said 2. one is 19 and the other is 17. My heart leaped with joy, A MIRACLE!! It was so amazing to be a part of a miracle that there is no way could have happened without the hand of the Lord. I was so happy, I was filled with joy. He showed us around his huge building he was going to buy for his business (he's the boss) and set up for the next night to meet with us. Well the next night comes around and he never comes. I was so bummed, I thought our miracle guy was gone. But then that night in planning we planned and said, you know what I want to find a lesson at 3 o'clock. So we wrote down on our plan, find a lesson. The next day at about 1 we were out contacting and I had a feeling to call him. So I called him while we were out tracting. He was way happy to talk to me on the phone. Then guess what time he set up for. 2 hours later at 3!! Haha so there was 2 miracles in 2 days that were obviously led by the Lord. The cool thing was, when me and Elder Jensen first found him elder Jensen didn't connect that's who we prayed for. then as I said the gratitude prayer for us after we found him and thanked the Lord for allowing us to see that miracle and find that dad, it finally clicked that we found exactly what we were looking for. It was a really cool experience to be apart of. Then when we scheduled the lesson for 3 then after the dad said OK 3 I’ll come. My real companion Elder Youd was like see we are going to get a lesson at 3. Then I finally realized that another miracle had just happened. Haha it was sweet. I love being an advocate in the hands of the Lord. He truly does lead this work and allow us to see miracles according to our faith and diligence. We don't see miracles to build our faith, but we see miracles according to our faith.
Wu Family- So my old companion Elder Daniels. He found a family with a dad that wants his family to join a Christian church. But together we didn't have a chance to meet with him. so Elder Youd and I finally got the chance to meet with him. Oh my gosh they are so Golden. The dad is 25 years old with two kids. 2 girls 4 and 2 years old. They all payed attention the whole time. And the dad and mom were asking question the whole time. The dad connected that his old baptism wasn't good because the person didn't have the authority. So that is way cool to realize on a first lesson. Also they set a baptism date as a family on the 2nd of May. They are such a cute little family. They have a great family relationship and will really make a great family in the ward. So that was way cool to be able to teach them. We used a lot of pictures to try and keep the kids involved and the dad loved the restoration and they really understood it very good. It was an awesome lesson, and this week on Friday we are having a family night with them and other families int he ward. So I’m way excited for that.
Bella- Yeah she is way cool. This was the 2nd time we've sat down with her. She brought a friend this time because she wants her to listen to the gospel too. She also set a baptismal date. We taught the 1st lesson again because of her friend not hearing anything yet. She understood it a lot more the 2nd time which is really good. She is doing great, she loves reading and praying and is progressing really good. She's going to be a great member too when she is baptized.
Kelly- She is on the 4-25-2010. She is doing great she had some concerns, but we sat down with her and helped her solve them. She is reading, praying and repenting. She is awesome. She's growing a lot. I remember the first day she came in she was sweating and way nervous to meet with us. But now she's just like our friend, it's amazing to see the change the gospel brings about in people. So I’m loving this it's so awesome!!!
Then we had a kid the other week who is 23 years old. Outside he came up to us and was like I want to learn English. So we set him up for Saturday night. So we met with him, he brought his friend along with him. We didn't end up teaching much English, but taught them the first lesson. They are both way good, and will be good in the future. They were both asking a lot of questions and understanding it well. The lesson started pretty sketchy but it ended very good. They both committed to prayer and read. They are going to be really, really good. But something really cool happened in the lesson.. When we were explaining the Book of Mormon we were flipping through he pictures in the front of it. We got to the picture with Nephi and his family, holding the Liahona. All of a sudden he was like wait a minute. We all paused and looked at him. He was like about 2 weeks ago I had a dream about that picture. We were like are you sure. Yup he knew it was that picture. Haha that was sweet, that he had seen that same picture in a dream, can you say being in the right place that the Lord wants you to be in. He thought that was way cool, haha we had one member with us that didn't believe him. Haha it was a funny situation!!
But yeah, I’m loving my life. I’m really so happy, I don't even know man. Being close to the Lord, working hard every day, and doing what the Lord would have me do. Doesn't get much better than that. But I know without a doubt that Jesus Christ lives. He will come again to rule over us, and redeem us from death and sin. Then we will return to live with Him who gave us life our Heavenly Father. I can't wait for the day to see my Savior Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father again. I don't that right now we must live worthy and be obedient to have the spirit with us, in order to stay as close as we can to them!! I know that Joseph Smith restored this gospel, and the keys of the priesthood were given to him. Through these keys, we can live together forever as a family. I love my family so much, so I’m grateful for this amazing perfect gift. I love our living prophet Thomas S. Monson and the leadership he gives from the Lord. This church is true, there’s no way it couldn't be!! Hold tight to the words of God, and we'll all receive a life of happiness and peace!! This gospel is truly the only way to achieve happiness.
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