Contention

Well, she was a very merry Christmas that's for sure! Thanks to all who sent me a thing or two for Christmas, it was a blessing for me; but more importantly, thank you for your efforts to serve and care for those around you. I've truly been blessed by each of your examples of love.

This week I was studying a wonderful general Conference talk by Marvin J. Ashton, which says "Where contention prevails, there can be no united effort in any purposeful direction." As we enter into a new year, may we ponder the following questions while setting new goals. 

Is there contention between me and my acquaintances?

Is there contention between me and my family?

Is there contention between me and myself?

As Elder Ashton said, we can't accomplish or even begin our newfound desires of we have contention clouding our path. If we truly have the intent to make personal progress, I believe it's worth the thought of healing said contention in order to find greater strength and power to change. But how do we do so? 

A quote from the apostolic document, The Living Christ, can answer such a question. "He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come." When our path becomes darkened, what better place to turn than the perfect path provided by our Savior. When we follow Him and his plan, we truly will find happiness. The light of His life will dispel the contention, and we will be able to become that which the Savior desires of us. His will provides perfect direction. 

If we do anything this coming year, may it be a greater desire to align ourselves with the mind and desire of Him who is mighty to save, even Jesus Christ.

This has been an incredibly enjoyable week!

One of the highlights of the week was taking our good friend Jerome, a recent convert, to a lesson with Marcus. They are both in their latter years, so it ended up being a solid hour of those two bantering back and forth, trying to one up each other on their life experience. I'm not sure either of them came out on top of that one. 

I guess I should mention that we had transfers this last week as well, but I'm still here in Liberty with Elder James. We're doing really well with each other and our work is really picking up. The Sisters who were double covering in our ward got transferred, so we took over all the people they were teaching. That has really helped our work pick up but definitely doesn't fill all our time. 

As we all know, this is the week of Christmas (we even have a baby tree up) but amongst all the noise and craziness of the time of year, it's wonderful to be able to worship the Savior and His birth. It was special to attend church and enjoy a wonderful Christmas program, but most importantly, partake of the Sacrament and receive a greater abundance of His spirit. 

I hope each of you has a wonderful Christmas...

Feliz Navidad!  

Let It Snow

Well, the winter is officially upon us! Yesterday we had the first snow of the year (other than on Halloween), and we only got a measly six inches. Luckily for us, that means we got to park the car and walk! It felt really great to be out hitting the pavement for a few hours.

The work continuously presses onward, and we are marching closer and closer to Christmas day. With that time approaching, I'd invite you all to check out the video I posted on Facebook and enjoy the touching story of the Nativity.

I know, like those ancient wise men, that no gift, no work, no deed could do anything to repay the price that Christ has paid for me and each and every one of us. But even though we can't do much, what we can do is love and serve those around us, focusing on doing as the Savior would if He were here.  

Well, it's been another week!

Somehow I wish I could find more ways to make these emails more interesting, but sometimes missionary work all seems to blend together. A few exciting events from the week included being able to attend a baptism, go to the temple, and got trapped into a bashing session. Sometimes you just can't trust people.

All in all, time is passing well, but the work is definitely difficult. I'm having to learn to work with a whole new type of people, and boy does that raise new challenges. Through it all, there are always little miracles that happen whether it be finding someone right before heading in, having someone text back unexpectedly, or having Moses (our investigator from the Congo) come to sacrament meeting!

Well, the work presses on and so will I!

Actually Thanksgiving

Somehow I didn't quite realize that Thanksgiving already hadn't happened last week, but we did have an eventful Thanksgiving!

It started off being your typical morning; wake up, get ready, that sorta thing, but then, after a few hours of straight responsibility type stuff, we get a call. About ten minutes before our dinner, a family called and told us one of our ward members was in Kansas ICU and that they'd like us to give her a blessing. So we hop in the car, whip over to dinner, and then tell the family feeding us that we're heading off to Kansas. Off we go, half an hour to Kansas, spend half an hour looking for the family, and finally meet them in the hospital.

After a couple minutes, they bring us back into ICU, and boy, that was something else. I've never seen so many people so close to the other side. 

Because of her condition, we weren't able to do the normal blessing procedures, but instead we each took a hand. I was the voice for the blessing.

It was one of the most interesting blessings I've ever given, but the spirit was very present. Afterward Elder James said that he knew some of the words that I would say during the blessing. 

In the end, we left and ate dinner for an hour or so and then went to meet Jerome to give him a blessing too. He'd had a nasty cough, and immediately after the blessing, he stopped coughing for the rest of the visit.

The following morning we woke up to a text letting us know that the lady in the ICU had passed away.

All in all, it was a great week, and I came to see how real the priesthood really is, and how important it is to always be prepared to use it. I love this great work, and the service I'm able to provide to my God and my fellowman!

Thanksgiving

Well, it's been quite the week!

This morning Elder James and I worked out with Title Boxing owner Danny Campbell in our ward and boy did he work us hard. It was an excellent way to start another exciting week to come. Amongst the miracles of the week, I shut down a drunk man, taught a man who has dove headfirst into the Book of Mormon, and started showing the incredible new Light the World video! I also had the opportunity to go on exchanges with the Elder Hansen (AP) and had an incredible time sharing the gospel to the YSA here in Missouri.

Boy am I excited to enter into this wonderful Christmas season! (Yes I know this week is Thanksgiving).  The Spirit of Christ is already strong and it's a blessing to simply be able to teach pure truths of Christ and His birth and ministry during this time. Soon I'll be posting on of the church's new nativity videos, and I'd encourage each of you to not only watch it but turn around and share it with friends and family. The season will always be a little brighter as we serve and love as Christ did!

Stake Relief Society President

Hello everyone!

You heard me right, I got transferred up to Liberty and I'm acting as the stake relief society president because I'm over two districts of sisters who work the Liberty Jail! 

I've been adjusting to Missouri and trying to get used to a higher class of people, but we've been seeing miracles every day as we've put forth our faith. This area is definitely going to be a new change for me but the people are welcoming and I've got an excellent companion as well, Elder James! He's been out just a little less than I have but he's big-time ready to work and I'm excited to just grind it out. Though I won't be teaching Spanish lessons all day long, I do know that as we trust the Spirit as best we can, miracles will follow.

Some of the sisters at the Liberty Jail Historical Sight
with Elder Henry J. Eyring

It's incredible the way that the Lord knows you personally. Simply enough, the Lord has placed a myriad of tender mercies in my path at the start of this transfer, and I know that it's due to His consciousness of me and my circumstances. I know the Lord has a personal love for each and every one of us!

Transfer Coming to a Close

Hello everyone!

It's been another great week here in Olathe. Lots of teaching, Spanish, and more snow! None of us expected this quick of a winter, but it's here for sure. High of 29 today.

This Thursday is going to be transfers, and based on how things are looking, I'm either getting transferred or I'll be staying in Olathe for 9 months. I could say that I know what'll happen but you really can never be sure. Nonetheless, Olathe has been an incredible area and a blessed opportunity to learn Spanish, but more importantly, learn to love the Spanish people! I don't quite know how it'll be not always being offered water, getting stuffed with Spanish chow, or immediately being let inside. 

I've been the witness of the gift of tongues as well as the power of testimony. There is no greater companion than the sweet spirit that accompanies those things. But how is our relationship with the Spirit? Can we feel His constant presence, or receive guidance hour to hour? Minute to minute? Do we guide our lives by His will or our will? I testify to you that doing what it takes to make the Spirit a part of your life is one of the most essential things we must accomplish in this life. I invite you to think of ways to listen closer and to draw closer to that Spirit, through that, peace and joy will flood your life.

It's the Holiday Season?!

The SNOW is already here, and that means Christmas time! The last week or so has just been great with the changing weather and just makes me happy to see the snow even though I'm not a big fan of the cold. One of the first miracles of the week was another lesson we had with Many. Normally nobody else is home when we come by, which means that we're not allowed to go inside, and with the changing weather conditions we weren't sure if she'd want to meet very long. To our surprise, she came out ready to learn and ended up braving the cold for nearly an hour! She didn't even have shoes on! Also, later in the week we were taking some time to knock around and find, and the first door we come to opens the window to talk with us. He didn't seem all too interested through our window conversation, but then I threw in a little Spanish joke which got him to come open the door. To our great surprise, it turned out he was a member who later told us that he wants to start coming back!

Short note - First Baptism!

It's been an awesome week! Not a whole lot other than GIANT MIRACLES! Especially the first branch baptism. We've been working hard and loving the work cruising around in our minivan. Not a whole lot of time to write, but I love you all and hope you have an exciting weekend. Keep reading the Book of Mormon!

Miss Me?

Hello! Sorry for missing my email last week, I had a few complications and wasn't able to get it out. Here are a few simple updates:

1. We're driving a minivan!

2. It's getting dang cold out here

3. The branch will be having its first-ever baptism this week!!!

That's right, our brand new little branch will have its first baptism of an 8-year old, and they've asked me to baptize him! That's a huge moment for our growing branch. The week before we were asked to take a picture as a branch by the Twelve Apostles that we then sent to them. Our work is going great as we continually find and teach tons of people. Though we've had a bunch of cops around us and drunks not interested, the work marches forward!

This week as I contemplated my progress as a missionary, the Spirit spoke this to my mind, "The measure of the missionary that you are is dependent upon the ways you are utilizing the gifts God has given you." I think this relates to each and every one of us, missionary or not. We've each been given gifts and abilities by our Heavenly Father in this life and He expects us to utilize them. Often times we compare ourselves either by our pride or self-criticism, both of which get us nowhere. Rather than casting our view to those around us, we have to focus on the way that we are seeing ourselves and the way that the Savior sees us. 

As you go throughout this week, I'd invite you to do some pondering upon where you're at and how you'd feel if you were to meet the Savior in the next five minutes. What'd go through your mind, what would you change? Take those thoughts and act upon them. Work to cultivate the attributes of our Savior Jesus Christ, and I know that you will find joy in making changes in where you're at now!

Conferencia Genial

As I mentioned last week, we had transfers! Also, as expected, I'll be here in Olathe at least for 6 more weeks which will make 6 months here. I don't have any complaints about that though. I'm starting to get to know people by name in apartment complexes and neighborhoods we're not teaching just because I see them so often. 

After heading up to Independence and saying goodbye to some of my most favorite friends, I found out that I'd be companions with Elder Young! He's a great Elder and he's also super excited to be here which makes the work great. We've been going pretty nonstop between appointments, though a lot of them haven't been going through as we'd like. 

Most importantly though, we had General Conference!!! It truly is a miracle and blessing to be able to hear the counsel of living prophets. This weekend I especially enjoyed the talk by Terence M. Vinson about giving your all. It made me think about my personal commitment to the Savior and what I'm willing to give up for Him. Not only do I have to sacrifice my wants and desires, I have to do so continually. This life isn't about one time events or moments of giving the Savior our hearts, especially not just every Sunday, it is a constant, joyful relationship. I want to serve and fight with all I've got out here, so that I, as Elder Vinson, will come home with a broken jaw. Working so hard that the pain is swallowed up in the joy of Jesus Christ!

 If you didn't have a chance to watch any of the General Conference, member or not, I'd invite you to listen to at least one speaker and enjoy the Spirit that can be brought by apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ!

Quien Sigue al Senor

Yet again, a wonderful week serving the Lord (Be sure to check out the new Book of Mormon videos coming out, especially if you don't know much about the book itself).

Amongst the many miracles that happened this week, a few of the highlights were being able to take Many to the Visitors Center, getting to witness someone we'd taught for a while be baptized, have someone else we'd been teaching recieve permission to be baptized, and watch as the entire Relief Society room was filled by this growing branch! Sometimes it may seem repetitious to say that we're seeing miracles happen, but when another member who hasn't been to church in 8 years decides to show up, it's hard to say that miracles aren't happening. This week will be transfers, and Elder Thompson will be heading home. Boy will I miss him. We've put in the work and seen the blessings, but more that that we've grown in our joy of serving the Lord. More than likely I'll be staying here in the branch with a new companion as they dont usually whitewash Zone Leader areas. Cheers to 6 months in Olathe!

We recently sang a song in the branch that I really loved, and it goes like this...

¿Quién sigue al Señor?
Toma tu decisión.
Clamamos sin temor:
¿Quién sigue al Señor?
La guerra es real
con el príncipe del mal,
que lucha con afán.
¿Quién sigue al Señor?

[Chorus]
¿Quién sigue al Señor?
Toma tu decisión.
Clamamos sin temor:
¿Quién sigue al Señor?

 Sigamos al Señor
y dejaremos ver
la fuerza del valor.
¿Quién sigue al Señor?
Marchemos a ganar,
sin miedo de perder,
pues Dios nos sostendrá.
¿Quién sigue al Señor?

[Chorus]

 La piedra rodará;
al mundo llenará.
¿Quién la ayudará?
¿Quién sigue al Señor?
Bandera, alta ya,
al mundo se izó;
ondea con honor.
¿Quién sigue al Señor?

[Chorus]
 La hueste infernal

sus dardos lanza ya;
nos quiere detener.
¿Quién sigue al Señor?
Verdad y libertad
de muerte y pesar
son lemas de la lid.
¿Quién sigue al Señor?

[Chorus]

There are dangers and temptations around us at all times. The world is filled with voices telling us to where we should turn our attention. Amongst the chaos, if we do not turn the the voice of the Spirit, and the quiet whisperings that guide us day by day, we will ultimately be swept up in the whirlwinds of confusion. But, if we heed to the inspiration provided through the Spirit, turn from sin and darkness to that which is pure and light, we can confidently walk in the Savior's footsteps through such perilous times.

Simply put, who'll follow the Lord Jesus Christ?

Make your decision.

Storytime

Here's a quick one for ya.

Today we went fishing as a zone. I kept trying but didn't get much at all for a couple hours. Finally, I decided it was time to catch a darn fish. All I needed was a little faith.

"Watch this... I can already see the fish on the pole!"

Cast

Reel

Bite

Fish

You never know what you can do with a little faith.

Yesterday we had a similar experience setting some big goals for the day. We woke up to do our daily planning and at the end prepared goals for the day. We wanted 20 return appointments and someone with a baptismal date. The day begins, the Lord does His work, all we had to do was literally run from place to place and do His will. The first person we met received a baptismal date, followed by 15 return appointments. We didn't do everything perfectly, but by the end of the night, we were trying to figure out how to squeeze more lessons into the week.

It's a joy to be doing the work of Jesus Christ.

This Week's Actual Email

Surprise!

The only reason I didn't get an email out last week was that my wifi wasn't functioning and I couldn't get it to send in time. So hopefully you've got that one and now we can move on to a brief one from this week.

Things took a pretty sharp turn for sure. I went from super great to having a lot of frustration with myself and where I felt I was at in a matter of hours, so that wasn't good. Luckily, we had interviews with President Love last Tuesday, so I was able to work through that quickly and get a lot of ideas as to how I can improve and grow. Rather than go too much into the here and there of what happened last week, I'd like to share a thought that comes from a lesson we taught this week.

One of the most profound stories that I love so much, is that of Moses and the Brazen Serpent. As Moses and the Children of Israel are out trodding in through the barren wilderness, murmuring, unfortunately, the Lord sent fiery serpents which bit a whole bunch of poor folks. Probably hurt pretty bad, but luckily the Lord provided Moses yet another way to perform a miracle and preserve His people. Gathering what he could, Moses fashioned a brass serpent and put it on top of a staff under the Lord's command. Now here's the good part, all anyone had to do to survive the nasty bite and relieve their pain, was look at the darn serpent. It was right there. Moses was probably shaking it around, begging people to just look. While some did (and were immediately healed by the way), others didn't listen and left their mortal existence because of it. It's a shame, huh? Now if we pull this all back to ourselves, we know that the Brazen Serpent represented Jesus Christ and His ultimate sacrifice. Moses was a prophet of God, just as we have a prophet today alongside scripture. Unfortunately, we've all been bitten by the pitiful plague of sin. There's no avoiding it entirely, but as always, our Heavenly Father has provided a way for us to ease those throbbing pains. Look unto Christ and live. He has made up the difference. He has felt our pains so we don't have to, but He doesn't force anything upon us. We've been gifted with agency, for we "are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil" (2 Nephi 2:27). Christ is begging for us to look, He sends prophets in the past, present, and future to do the same. He loves us eternally, but cannot force His Atonement upon us, nor soothe our afflictions without humbling ourselves before Him. In fine, "Behold, I say unto you, that the good shepherd doth call you; yea, and in his own name he doth call you, which is the name of Christ; and if ye will not hearken unto the voice of the good shepherd, to the name by which ye are called, behold, ye are not the sheep of the good shepherd... And now I say unto you that the good shepherd doth call after you, and if you will hearken unto his voice he will bring you into his fold, and ye are his sheep; and he commandeth you that ye suffer no ravenous wolf to enter among you, that ye may not be destroyed" (Alma 5:38,60). I know that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world and that He loves us individually, as a representative of Him, I'm waving my metaphorical stick and snake, begging for you to look. It's not that difficult, simply LOOK TO THE LORD AND LIVE.

Elder Shepherd

Solo Dios Hace el Hombre Feliz

What a week.

Nothing of grand import has passed this last week, but it has been grueling in the best way possible. Working from dawn to dusk in the work of the Lord is what I need to be doing. We had MLC at the start of the week which is always an uplifting experience; if President Love can't get a bunch of people excited, then no one can, for that man surely carries the name of Jesus Christ and will light up a room with it. A little highlight from the week was having dinner with a member named Brother Balderas. He is a very humble and kind man, and amongst his other skills, he collects jazz music and is writing a book about all of the interviews he has done with jazz trumpet players throughout the years. Pretty cool, huh? I took a picture of a record he has signed by Miles Davis and Dizzy Gillespie. Anyways, back to the most important part of the week, I got the opportunity to go on my first exchange with a fresh missionary named Elder Willis. Let me tell you something, he sure doesn't seem fresh, and I loved being able to just get to work and wear myself out in the Lord's work. We were talking through car windows, running to catch people, and I also had my first opportunity to practice translating for him in our lessons which went way better than I thought possible. To end that wonderful night we had a lesson with a Spanish man named Gilberto who told us he's had 10 wives and 48 children. We've met a bunch of them already so I believe him. Best of all, we were able to teach him the Restoration of Christ's gospel as I translated back and forth from English to Spanish. The Lord is good and does His work, and I surely would be nothing without Him. After our lesson, Gilberto played us a song on his guitar which I'll attach below. It's the best way I can express how I'm feeling as I serve the Almighty God.

Elder Shepherd

PS

Right out of the gate miracles distilled upon the Olathe zone as the dews from heaven today!! Too many miracles to contain we will share another tomorrow, tonight we wind the clock back a few lessons with Mini. So a few lessons in, as we started teaching mini, she talked about this problem at work she was having, as we continued meeting with her it progressively got worse. *Side note, every time we had invited mini to pray about something BOOM she got an answer by the next visit. Ask and ye shall receive, verdad? But with this concern at work got so overwhelming for her that in our lessons it became a bigger challenge to resolve. Finally, we have a lesson with her and the only thing she can think about is this trial, and it was really something nagging at her spiritually and emotionally. With all the things she prayed and got answers to, our invitation for Mini to pray for this individual that was causing her turmoil, she wouldn't do. In this lesson, the lesson plan goes out the window and our team up invites her to pray for this person. Tonight we met with her and Mini was so excited to tell us that she prayed... and the problem at work was completely fixed. Step aside, and let the Great Jehovah do His work!!!

Let'm Have It!

It's been a BUSY week!

We've seen a lot of miracles and success as we've put forth our efforts this week. Early in the week, we had an incredible Zone Conference as usual, and Elder Thompson and I got to give a training. Best of all was a quote by President Love, in reference to the powerful spirit that accompanies the Restoration, which said: "Sledgehammer blow for sledgehammer blow... let'm have it!" It's always powerful to testify of Christ as the work He is doing.

I got to go on exchanges up to Liberty with Elder Clayton which was great as always, but even better, while Elder Thompson was back in Olathe, Mini expressed her desire to be baptized at the end of this month! I freaked when he reported that to me. Mini is the absolute best.

To close of, last night we had a crazy experience. In the last 8 minutes of the night, we were trying to follow the spirit as to where we needed to place our final efforts. We turned down a dark street and parked the car, running up to the door we were feeling. No answer. Turned around and tried talking to someone walking their dog. Nada. As we continued down the street I saw someone peeking out a window. I waved and told Elder Thompson. We ran up to the house and knocked, knowing he'd either answer immediately or avoid us. He opened! 

Well, he also happened to be holding a shotgun and told us to leave. We kept explaining who we were and what we were doing. Again, he told us to leave. We continued until he gave us a final warning, to which we replied with a kindly "have a nice night" and headed on our way. We ran down the street and stopped a car driving down the road and talked for a minute before we hear a voice yelling from down the street. The man with the shotgun was coming towards us and telling us to come with him. He said he wanted to talk. We shook hands, walked to his home, and bore testimony of the Restoration of Christ's gospel. 

He said he came after us because he'd never seen anyone react to a loaded shotgun the way we had. He said we were gutsy and dedicated to what we do, and he knew that we had something he needed.

These are the types of miracles we see while sharing this glorious message. I know it's TRUE.

Let'm have it!

Elder Shepherd

Some of their crazy weather.

Brownies

Another wonderful week comes to a close... yesterday I suppose. Oh shoot, I didn't even realize that rhymed. Anyways, we've had a great week, and for some reason or another, it has been filled with all kinds of food. For the first time ever, I had pupusas from Iris, one of the people we are teaching. She's from El Salvador, and she and her kids are just the greatest! The pupusas were incredible too. Not only that, by later in the week we had pupusas again from the Lyons in the branch. Sister Lyons is the branch Relief Society President and is a huge help in the missionary work, as well as from El Salvador. We also stopped by a member from Laos who gave us a couple dang hot peppers. He told us not to eat them because they'd send us to the hospital. I don't know if I fully believe that, but I'm also not super interested in finding out. Last but not least, we made brownies and banana blueberry bread for people as well and brought them to a bunch of people that we are teaching. 

Other than all that, we had some great lessons and teaching experiences. We had a member named Brother Chun come with us to a lesson, and I think it was the most powerfully and lovingly way I'd ever heard someone teach. The spirit was so strong and gave us a great example of how we should be teaching others. We were also blessed to have a new couple we've been teaching come to church! Things are going well, and despite getting hit by a hurricane of sorts this morning, the Lord's light is shining down upon little Bendito Olathe.

Elder Shepherd

High Voice "Huge!"

Yet again, it's been another good week here in Bendito Olathe. Elder Thomspon and I have been busy day in and day out. We've even caught each other talking in our sleep. Whenever we catch the other talking we try and write it down for in the morning. There was a big thunderstorm the other night and I woke up only to hear Elder Thompson say "HUGE!" in a really high voice. To say the least, we've been having a good time together as well as in the work. 

While things have been going well especially with the work and my overall enjoyment of my time here, I've definitely had a couple really tough moments. It's hard to get out of a lesson and feel that I didn't contribute what I should've or that in general my level of effort is below my potential. Whether it's smart or not, my general response to these situations is simply to try and work harder and faster. When He says to work with all your "heart, might, mind, and strength," I don't think to take that lightly. Recently we were reading about the faith and obedience of Nephi, and we talked about a phrase that I definitely find inspiring. 2 Nephi 33:15 "The Lord commanded me, and I must obey." There is no simpler way to put it.

This Sunday I had a marvelous experience. Or two, I suppose. One of which was the opportunity to watch the Restoration video with Michael Paynter, one of the people we are teaching. Not only was he physically and spiritually touched by the video, I too received a renewed and reconfirmed testimony of the reality of the prophetic call of Joseph Smith. He was called of God just as prophets of old. Also, an inactive family, the Paisano's (they are a huge Spanish family in Olathe that we're always trying to help get to church) came to church! I watched as this wonderful family came through the doors of our small meeting room and enjoy the spirit of the Sacrament beside them. How great will be your joy doesn't describe the emotion the accompanies helping God's family grow closer to Him. This is the work of the Lord Jesus Christ, He is the only one that can make it happen, and by golly, He's doing it.

Elder Shepherd

Here's a picture of Mini, oh... and one of Elder Thompson and I.

Es Mi Pobre Casa

We've had another good week, and we've been tremendously blessed. I think it'd be best to share some of those blessings through the people were teaching. As an update for Mini, she has continued to progress and read in the Book of Mormon. She did tell us that she is too scared to drive on the freeway. We also meet multiple times a week, and she'll even set up lessons with us, as well as always plans on coming to church. She loves the people at church. The other day she was talking about the Book of Mormon and said that "this book is real, it changes people. This isn't just like a Mario game, just words, it actually means something. You don't just put this book in the garage." That was a sweet powerful testimony that came in broken English
. The other day we had a huge miracle after stopping by a member home. After meeting the father briefly, we came back to the car and asked, "what does say spirit we need us to do?" Right after, we hear "Hey!" The spirit was talking to us!!!

Actually, there was a man down the street named Ismael who was waving us down. We introduced ourselves, to which he replied with a desire to change his life and he felt that we could help him. He's made great progress and truly desires to redirect his life towards Christ. We've also been teaching a lady named Iris and her family. They are the sweetest and humblest little family and read the Book of Mormon every day together even though they have a hard time reading. They came this Saturday night to breakfast and movie night and got to meet lots of the wonderful members of the branch. It was wonderful to be able to see them enjoy themselves and see their growth in the gospel.

I love being a missionary. Yes, there are tough days. Yes, the language is tough. Yes, I'm imperfect and always will be. But at the end of the day, when I account for my labors with the Lord, I feel the love of my Heavenly Father. You can never go wrong with falling onto your pillow at night, exhausted from a day of giving the Lord all you've got.

Elder Shepherd

Lo Siento Hermanos

This has been an up and down week for sure. I've had about three meetings and lots of other responsibilities to take care of, so there have some stressful days. That's not too normal for me, but the ways I've gotten through it is by literally talking to everyone. We got someone's number while driving the other day. Not just stopped, but literally out on the road. Through our efforts, the Lord has blessed us with three people who have literally asked us to teach them. The work is great, the Lord loves you, and I'll be back next week!

Elder Shepherd

Sushi and Gyoza Lunch with Brother Sanner

This week had been great! We had Zone Conference again this week, and guess who got called upon to conduct the meeting? You guessed it... ME! Though it was a little stressful and I wasn't really sure what in the world I was doing, everyone told me I did really well, some even said it was the best they'd seen. I don't know that I'd agree with that but it was enjoyable and an all-around uplifting Zone Conference. 

This week we've had a lot of success. A few of the wonderful people we've been working with are Martin, Mini, and Carla. Martin is just down to earth and comfortable with us and it's great. He's really opened up to us and whenever we have a lesson with him the lesson is extremely strong. We discuss chapters we read in-depth and he desires to know if this truly is the exact church that Christ Himself established when He was on the earth. I know he'll find his answer soon. Mini is a lady from Laos and she doesn't speak a ton of English, but we can communicate well and also use Google Translate and try and say things in Lao. She's already read to Jacob in  ພຣະ​ຄຳ​ພີ​ມໍມອນ and still going. She even came to church on Sunday with us and she'll call to set up or cancel appointments. When we go over it's like hanging out with a good friend and we just laugh and teach. Lastly, Carla has had some experiences with missionaries and we've been able to meet with her a few times. I went over on exchanges and taught her all alone in Spanish and read from el Libro de Mormón with her and her son Eddie in Mosiah 3. She had read by herself in the last two weeks to there, and then her son Eddie asked if he could have a Book of Mormon too. 

Overall, things are going great. Miracles are constantly showered upon us as we work diligently and focus our faith in Christ. We had a lesson with Iris and her family on a whim as we followed the spirit to visit her, and that's just a small example of how the spirit guides every aspect of the work.

A couple things I would suggest reading would be 3 Nephi 11 as well as Mosiah 3 if you have any desire to know more about who Jesus Christ is and grow closer to Him. I know that the Spirit always accompanies as we read truth about Him, and I can promise an enlightening experience in reading those!

Love,

Elder Shepherd 

P.S. We ate lunch with the absolute best member, Brother Sanner, today. He made a bunch of Gyoza and bought some sushi and we had a great time. I'm truly just feeling happy. I laugh everyday, not due to lack of struggles, but simply because I'm finding joy in the work and in finding myself more and more.

Two Week Report

I'm back, and here to write a generally goodish sized email this week! With the transfer hit and the Royals game things were definitely off a little bit, but things are going great! As of now, I'm companions with Elder Thompson which has been absolutely fantastic. He was in my first area just a little while before I came into the mission, so I heard all the legendary stories about Elder Thompson, but never did I think I'd have the chance to serve around him. We've been absolutely putting ourselves to work these last two weeks as well, and the Lord is pouring out His blessings upon us. It's always incredible to see how the Lord opens up the way to opportunities we don't even see ourselves to help us remember that it truly is His work. We see literally miracles every day, and not just simple joys like having a good lesson, but having people come home at the exact time, meeting people we've been trying to find for months, and so much more.

Though things have been going so well with the work and in our companionship, I have had a little relapse in terms of my Spanish confidence. I see myself struggling more and more especially as Elder Thompson is able to excel in all we do. As I had been expecting, the Lord is beginning to truly humble me and help me realize the importance of the little things I should be doing every day to improve my progression. I read a talk last week titled "I Testify" by Ezra Taft Benson I believe. It was a simple, brief talk, yet portrayed the power that the Spirit can have when testimonies are shared. I would encourage you to read it and feel the same Spirit I did and do now. I know Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of the world and that He always blesses us through our diligence and heed to His example. He truly did appear to Joseph Smith in order to fully reestablish His promised gospel back to the families of the earth, and today stands firmly and ever-growing, preparing for the great coming of the Savior yet again.

Love you, 

Elder Shepherd

Kansas City Royals Game

Missionaries Sing the National Anthem!

Gotta Love TIWI

Well, thank goodness I got some extra time this week to make up for the email I sent last week. Quick note, next week the mission will be singing the Star Spangled Banner at the Royals game, so watch for me on Monday. Hopefully, I get all my other P-Day things done before then. 

Wow, let me tell you, boy does it feel good to have an old kindly Spanish man compliment my language skills. Elias is an elderly Spanish fellow who we helped out the other day by translating some important information from English to Spanish to him, and then we came back a few days later, met him at the pool, and got to know him a little better. He's lived around the missionaries for a long time, so it's great to be comfortable with him and be able to talk openly and joyfully together. Though my Spanish is getting better, I wouldn't say that I can necessarily do a whole lot with it until I can joke in Spanish, so I'll get back to everyone when I'm able to hit the hispanas with a chiste or two. 

Early in the week, we had MLC, which is basically where the Zone Leaders from our 9 zones plus the Sister Training Leaders meet at the mission home with President and Sister Love and give and receive training. Although this was only my second MLC and my first transfer as a Zone Leader, Elder Fenton and I were selected to give one of these trainings. Luckily it went really well and we had a lot of fun doing it, at least I did. As for our individual area, things have started to pick up and our days have started to fill up. I've had a couple miracles happen as I run to stop people who are pulling away in their cars and then find out that they're people we've been looking for for weeks.

I had exchanges again this week with the Elders down in Ottawa, but I was lucky enough to get to being Elder Earl up to Olathe 1st this time. Elder Earl was actually in my first zone and one of the missionaries I've really looked up to this far in my mission, so it was great to be able to work with him for a day the week before he goes home. Even though it was the 4th, it was missionary work as usual, and to make it even better, President Love said that we could stay out until 9:15 to get extra contacting in with everyone who was out and about. We first exchanged down in Ottawa and stayed for their district council which ended up running late and therefore made us late for the other district council I was trying to get to. We also were out of gas. So we filled up and started booking it across Kansas as fast as good ole TIWI would let me go. We made it to the other council about 45 minutes late, but, you do what you can do. 

Those are really some of the highlights for the week, and because I've been so poor at leaving very good thoughts, I'll share one that I sent to President Love as well. I recently came across a scripture in D&C 121 that I really like. Right before the wonderful paralleling of being unable to stop the Missouri river in its decreed course with the inevitable blessing and knowledge of heaven, it says "How long can rolling waters remain unpure?" This struck me, for just as simply as stagnant water becomes unclean and infested, we too will become impure when our progression stagnates. Yet, if we will put our faith in Christ, continually push ourselves forward in our progression, we will roll forth, becoming purified and sanctified to the point "that when He shall appear we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He as He is; that we may have this hope, that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen." I know that we should apply this to every aspect of our lives, spiritually or physically, for if we become content with where we're at, our progression ceases and the Adversary can have greater hold of us. So let us continually strive to hold tight to the Savior, for He is always there awaiting us.

Love, 

Elder Shepherd

I Know This One's Short

This week was pretty simple as the rest, yet I was able to go on exchanges in probably the toughest area in our zone. Its got a lot of rich people, including players for the chiefs. I think Patrick Mahomes goes to the gym there or something. Anyways, we had a great day of finding by the spirit, and after a long day of hard work, we found one person to set a return appointment with. Despite it being a seemingly unproductive day, we were super excited about the miracles we saw. Later in the week, we had an interesting experience with a man named Marlo. We came into his home to try and teach the Restoration, where he proceeded to talk a lot and eventually took his shirt off to show us all his tattoos. The only good part of that visit was him and I bonded over his picture of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. We also went back to try a Spanish man we had met, and when we got to his home someone opened the door, wherein were probably like ten or more kids. They looked at us and then turned around and took pictures for about five minutes... yes, we were just patiently waiting outside. Finally, he came to the door, and let us know he was busy. It was nice of him to let us know. Lastly, and on the best note. We had a pass off lesson with some sisters who'd been teaching a girl who was baptized, so we went and met the parents and have started teaching them. All in all, things are looking up for our area, and I'm feeling really great about where I am, what I'm accomplishing, and who I'm developing into. I'm blessed to have such a life-changing opportunity to develop into the talents I've been blessed with and use them to make other's lives happy too.

Pongase Las Pilas

This has been a really great week for me. I think my favorite moment was being able to go on exchanges with my dad, or my first trainer who is now the district leader. So basically my responsibility was to go and train my trainer on all the things he trained me on, but it went really well and had a great time. We even made more hot Kool-Aid! I was out in Ottawa with him which is way out in the boonies of Kansas. We taught some great lessons in some run down trailers and drove through miles of fields. As for our own area, we have been working a lot with less active members because the people we were teaching all kind of dropped off the face of the planet.... but we found most of them all again this week which is great! Some of my favorite moments this week were meeting with some of our Spanish members. I don't know if I've said this before, but the Hispanic culture is incredible, and now that I can pretty casually just converse with people,  I love just getting to know people and laughing together. Spanish is definitely a far better language than English, and I feel like it's starting to come really quickly. I know carry around a little notebook to write down vocabulary and phrases I learn or need to learn, and it helps to just love the language and love the people. We also had a great Stake Conference this Sunday, and Elder Sexton of the 70 spoke about avoiding the deception of the world, and to head the guidance of the prophet in order to keep ourselves safe from danger. Afterwards, I was able to have an interview with President Love which always fires me up. The biggest things I've taken away personally is just wanting to increase my joy even more, not to simply be happy myself, but to show that love and light to others. Not to "light a candle, and put it under a bushel," but to "giveth light unto all that are in the house"(Matthew 5:15). Speaking of candles, I recently reread the devotional by Boyd K Packer "The Candle of the Lord," and as a missionary, it seemed to mean even more. Heeding the promptings of the spirit and being led in all that we do is truly what brings the most joy. I'm excited for the week ahead and to see the ways the Lord guides me in order to spread the light of the gospel. Pongase las pilas!

Elder Shepherd 

P.S. This is a picture of me contacting while we waited for a train.

Getting Unstuck

Somehow my emails seem to be continually getting more similar and similar. It'd probably be a good lesson for me to learn and start making these things slightly more interesting. The work is starting to pick up for me. I went on exchanges with the AP's on Saturday, and Elder Clayton and I just got down and got to work. He truly helped me to get unstuck from a rough patch I'd been dealing with, and simply did so by imploring me to yield "to the enticings of the Holy Spirit." Through following his example, and heeding those simple yet powerful promptings, I can't believe some of the things I do as a missionary trying to talk to people; whether it's talking to people between cars at stoplights, stopping cars in the middle of the street, or just normal ole door knocking. One thing is for sure, I won't be having social issues when I get home... at least I think. But here's the beauty of it, the mission isn't just an opportunity to share the joy of the gospel and be able to learn so much about it, it's also an opportunity to learn simply how to live life and build skills and relationships. I'm just learning a lot, loving it, and crossing my fingers I don't get overwhelmed. Last week we had the privilege of having a member of the 70, Elder Ringwood (the son-in-law to the prophet), at our Zone Conference as well as at our MLC. Something he taught that will forever stick with me, is that the mission is preparing us the be able to endure the end and stick to the "strait" and "narrow" (Matthew 7:14). I'm learning simple study habits, how to minister to others, and how to look to Christ's example for all things. Having the opportunity to serve truly is a blessing.

1/4

Isn't it crazy that it's already been six months? I find it even crazier to think about how quickly the rest will go because everyone says it just gets going faster and faster. This has been a bit of a dragging week though. Responsibilities are hefty and the work is not easy. Like a whole 78% of our lessons are straight Spanish, and although I'm learning quickly, that doesn't mean I'm in any way able to perfectly express the intents of my heart. That there is what I'm learning though, and have learned this week. There is a lot we can stress about, get frustrated over, and feel uncomfortable, yet the only way I've been able to avoid those things is by having for love for those around me. Spanish people are incredible. I can go locations around our area and feel as I'm sitting in the middle of a Latino community. Many are kind, receptive, and so much more willing to talk to us. I love coming to a Spanish home, having them excitedly invite us in and then proceed to simply have an enjoyable visit where we are able to teach and share the happiness we enjoy. The same goes for my zone, companion, and ward members. Building loving relationships comes very first in everything. Though I'm in a bit of a pickle at the moment, I can only imagine what things will turn out like on the other side. I love this scripture from Mosiah 24:15 which says and "the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord." Obviously,

things aren't meant to be easy, but I'm truly learning how to share my burdens with the Lord, yet joyfully hoist the load he has me to carry and learn from.

Elder Shepherd

See Ya Later OP2, I Wont Miss You... Actually, I'll Probably Miss You a Lot

Okay, I'm sure you can tell from the title of this email that I have been transferred. I'm now serving about 20 minutes south in the Olathe 1st ward. Here are a few important notes on this area:

1. It is Spanish. We have a Spanish branch being established next week.

2. It is the ZL's area. Yes, that means I have been called to be a zone leader.

Okay, now that that's aside... well that's just about it really. I'm now serving as a zone leader in a completely new area full of Latinos and I finally get to use Spanish for literally 95% of the work I'm doing here, and I'm going to finally be able to exponentially improve my language skills. My new companion, Elder Fenton, and I are at about the same place with our Spanish skills, meaning we're both going to go through the refiner's fire to get to where we really need to be. Elder Fenton is from North Ogden and we have been getting along well so far, and we're even more excited for the work. I don't really have a whole lot more outside of those things going on, just a whole lot of talking to seemingly endless Spanish people in the streets. If there's one thing I'm sure of, it's the fact that I will be stretched to the absolute limit physically and spiritually. With the Lord's help though, I know that even more important than being stretched, I'll begin to truly be molded into who the Lord needs me to be as a missionary, and fully develop my skills and abilities. Be ready for some exciting updates, I can feel them coming!

Elder Shepherd 

Oh yeah, there was a tornado about 15 minutes from me too

Goodbye Lenexa!

   May 31, 2019

Dear Elder Dean Kendall Shepherd,

After prayerful consideration, I am pleased to extend to you the calling of Zone Leader. This special calling is a position of trust. This calling has come to you because of your faithfulness and diligence in the Lord’s service.

Your actions in word and deed will be followed and emulated by the missionaries in your Zone. Be ever mindful of your influence on the other missionaries.

You will serve on the Mission Leadership Council. You will be responsible to train with exactness that which you are taught at those special meetings.

You become an extension of the Mission President to look after, correct, uplift, teach and love the missionaries in your Zone. You will be required to travel with this assignment. Drive carefully and obey and honor the traffic laws.

To effectively serve in this special calling, you must always be worthy and an example of obedience. Your influence will have a profound effect on the missionaries in your Zone.

Be prayerful and humble. The Lord is mindful of you and will watch over you.

Sister Love and I extend to you our love and trust.

May the Lord be with you always,

                                               

Grit

Missionary work is tough. I mean tough, yet it's the small miracles that I can see that get me through day to day. We happen to have a really interesting set of people we are teaching, and because of that, we weren't able to have a lesson with anyone we've been teaching I don't think. Maybe one, but besides that, all we've been doing is walking, and knocking, and talking. Like I said, it's tough, and when the weather is jumping from sunny, eighty degrees, and ninety percent humidity to thunder and lightning storms with tornados within 10 miles, you could say that finding people is tough.

Despite these challenges, the joy of putting yourself out there and serving the Lord Jesus Christ carries away all doubt and frustration. "Perfect love casteth out all fear" Moroni 8:16.

Early in the week, Elder Berry and I were out at a park talking with people for about an hour, and we were just being flat out rejected, culminating with a confrontation with a couple people who just really didn't agree with us, and they sure made it known. After such an experience, I felt the need to simply go and study the scriptures. We went and sat at a park bench for an hour and just started studying. I was reading in 2 Nephi 29 and Galatians 1, just as a side note. Anyways, as we were sitting there, a man came down and sat a couple benches down. I felt firm to continue studying, despite the common response of getting up and talking to him immediately. This continued for at least half an hour before he got up, walked passed us, and stopped. He looked around for a second, and then turned back and began talking to us about what we were studying and what we believed. I've never had any sort of interaction like that. The Lord truly will provide us with opportunities and experiences if we but dedicate ourselves to heeding the spirit and aligning ourselves with the will of the Lord.

A couple days ago Elder Clayton got called to be one of the new AP's, so now I'm stuck without a Spanish buddy and one of my favorite elders to be around. The last few days I've truly realized the growth I need to be continually making, that I haven't even come close to the missionary I can be, and becoming stagnant or comfortable with where I'm at won't bring me the joy or success I desire for the Lord. I think this can apply in any and every stage of our lives. We cannot become casual in our work, school, friendships, family, or whatever else. To truly find joy, it takes constant effort and growth on our part. So take the time to evaluate where you are at, and find out where you want to be because we all have much greater potentials than we know, being sons and daughters of God.

Elder Shepherd.