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!