Saving the Best for Last

The sweetest ending of all.
Having the opportunity to bring not one...

I've loved my mission. I've learned a lot from it. It's interesting that two years of experiences can change an entire lifetime. I'm excited for the next stages of my life, but I'm sad to be leaving this one. 

The gospel of Jesus Christ changes people for the better. I've seen that change in myself as well as in the lives of others. Recently I've had several people tell me about the impact I've made on them. They were people that I didn't expects to have affected in any way but they were deeply touched by some of the things I did or said. I have Heavenly Father to thank for that. I'm grateful for the strengths He has given me and for the weaknesses as well. It's taught me to rely on Him and to give Him the credit. 

Serving in Winter Haven has been the best time of my mission. I was able to witness two baptisms of people that I taught just before leaving. These people's conversion stories are miracles. Each conversion story is a miracle, actually. The funnest part about serving a mission is being able to witness those miracles. I love the Lord and I love this gospel. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

...but two amazing people into the waters of baptism and start
them on a path that will lead them to true happiness.

Take It Easy? No Way!

Serving hands make happy hearts.

I think it's only fitting that I talk a little about enduring to the end. Since the beginning of my mission I made myself and God a promise that I wouldn't be one of those missionaries who slows down at the end of their mission. I would endure to the end and work faithfully. I would like to think that I've held true to that promise. Now, at the risk of sounding prideful I would like to mention that it's God who has been providing the blessings and that ultimately He has been doing all of the hard stuff. 

A couple of recently baptized people were an inspiration this week to me. One of them has been extremely sick this whole week and he's barely been able to function. However, he wanted to come to church really badly. He loaded himself up on medication and came to church. He enjoyed it a lot and he was glad he made that effort. Another recent convert was asked if she would accept a certain calling. Despite some reservations she had, she accepted and knows that the Lord will support her. Enduring faithfully is what really brings blessings. Consistency builds faith which is why I'm not going to take it easy this week. I'm excited to see what miracles happen!

More...

...and more from the zone service project.