Hello Momma! How are you?! To answer your question about when I'm coming home. I'm a little nervous to set anything in stone at this point for fear that the lord may have other plans within the next month so as far as shruggin of the shoulders goes, I'm right there with you:) You just keep on shruggin and I will do the same until the lord makes me decide. Would you call that Procrastination....? More like I just don't want to think about it until I absolutely have to.
Hermana Jenny Bullock came into town on Friday. Oh my word, I missed her. She and her parents got permission from president to take me and my new companion out to lunch. What a sweet time that was. I love her dearly. She seems to be doing great! I know that she misses the mission like crazy but she has continued faithful and is no less of a missionary now than she was a couple of months ago. She's a delight and will continue to be throughout her life.
My new area! I love it! I loved it the second I hugged my companion for the first time. What a special person she is. Truly and honestly, one of thee most patient people I have ever come into contact with. What a blessing she is in my life. There have been a couple of instances where she's had to exercise that patience more than she would like I'm sure but she's handled me like a champ. We get along beautifully and just laugh and laugh. Oh my word, she is hilarious! I was rolling on the floor laughing so hard the other night as she told me a story about the MTC. Please, don't let me forget to tell you one day. Hahaha. You will die. I died! She is so excited about the work and ready to get out and baptize the world and that is just what we are going to do! We had two investigators come to church yesterday and it was a sweet experience. Hermana Casaday thrilled beyond words. She's been here six weeks and has not yet had one investigator come to church so it was a great day!
We have a few people that we are working with at the moment. Weceslao, Mina, and Jose Ortiz. They are our top 3 progressing investigators. Oh how I love them! We told Weceslao that we would come to his home on Sunday so that he could follow us to church. Sure enough, the second we pulled into his coldasac there he was, waiting in his truck, ready to go. What a sweet man with a celestial heart. I love him dearly. Turns out his battery was dead when he tried to start up the engine so we were so thrilled to be there to help him jump it with some cable cords. He loved it and I believe he will be baptized soon. Mina is a member referral and is so excited to be baptized. She is about 60 years old. She doesn't really understand that there are certain things she needs to learn before getting into the water. She doesn't have a lot of time to meet with us but that is ok. We'll figure it out! Jose Ortiz. Oh boy. Jose is just sweet. He loves his Savior Jesus Christ and think any religion that preaches his name is the right one. Its going to take a little more time with him but he is happy to have us in his home. That is a start.
I wish I had more time to email you but I'm afraid time is not on our side here on the mission. There is never enough of it. I'm so thrilled that you get to go to Nauvoo! That will be too fun. Enjoy every second of it. I too am a little nervous about Ryan. You tell him to read his scriptures and say his prayers every morning and night and he will have the armor needed to combat the temptations of Satan and his crew. Please tell him to be safe and wise. Know that he is a smart boy and wouldn't do anything to jeopardize his chances of serving a mission. Oh what a sad boy he would be.
Please have a wonderful week and know that all is well here in Houston Texas. A little hot but very very well:) I love you all and will talk to you next week!
Monday, June 27, 2011
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Lance Letter 6.24.11
HEY HEY!!
This week was a testimony builder, WE GOT OUR BIKES STOLEN!!
I'm so happy you got to meet Brandon. He's such a good kid. As well as his friends who really were the ones’ who brought him into the Gospel. They said they were going to drive through St. George, and I begged them to make a quick pit stop to the Porter home.
But yes, we had our bikes stolen. On Friday morning we parked them real quick outside the Zone Leaders apartment to give them something and just a few minutes later they were gone. We asked everyone and even reported them stolen to the police. We went home later and knelt down and said a sincere prayer. Elder Bludworth had a sweet bike too. President Jackson gave Elder Bludworth and me permission to call home and get some money for new bikes. Elder Bludworth called and got a little BMX bike. I was about to call but I just had this feeling our bikes were going to turn up so I didn’t call; but kept praying throughout the day.
The next morning the Zone Leaders called and said "Do you want your bikes back, because we're looking right at them." We bolted over to their apartment and it turns out the bikes were taken by the neighbors and put in their yard (which looks just like "the sand lot" junk yard). Anyway, they were taken apart with some of the parts still missing. So we called the cops and they came and got our bikes for us… It was a 16 year old kid and his friend who took them. We had asked both of them the day before if they saw our bikes, but they said, ‘nope’. Anyway, we got them back. I'm still missing the back wheel, but they said they'll get me a new one. Oh, and the best part . . .the Spanish Elders are now teaching the family.
I'm telling you prayer works!
Other than that, not too many things have happened. We're trying to work with the Ward more in finding people to teach. It's moving slowly but surely. We have a lot of work to do. We're still on bikes. I've been on a bike my entire mission for which I'm grateful; but it's HOT! 97*+!!!
Everyone sounds great but busy which is good. Ryan got his own bench!!?? He's gonna be huge when I get home! We have a little weight room in our apartment with a bench and such but I have had a hard time using it. I am so weak! Ryan is going to beat me up when I get home. I'm still at like 200lbs but it’s all fat ha, ha. You'd think since I've been on a bike so long I would have at least maintained the same weight. “I say unto you nay,” being on a bike just makes me hungry! Maybe now that it's so hot, I’ll sweat it all off? Yeah, maybe that . . .
Okay, we are working and praying like mad and I know you are too. Thank you!
I love you all!
Love, LANCE
This week was a testimony builder, WE GOT OUR BIKES STOLEN!!
I'm so happy you got to meet Brandon. He's such a good kid. As well as his friends who really were the ones’ who brought him into the Gospel. They said they were going to drive through St. George, and I begged them to make a quick pit stop to the Porter home.
But yes, we had our bikes stolen. On Friday morning we parked them real quick outside the Zone Leaders apartment to give them something and just a few minutes later they were gone. We asked everyone and even reported them stolen to the police. We went home later and knelt down and said a sincere prayer. Elder Bludworth had a sweet bike too. President Jackson gave Elder Bludworth and me permission to call home and get some money for new bikes. Elder Bludworth called and got a little BMX bike. I was about to call but I just had this feeling our bikes were going to turn up so I didn’t call; but kept praying throughout the day.
The next morning the Zone Leaders called and said "Do you want your bikes back, because we're looking right at them." We bolted over to their apartment and it turns out the bikes were taken by the neighbors and put in their yard (which looks just like "the sand lot" junk yard). Anyway, they were taken apart with some of the parts still missing. So we called the cops and they came and got our bikes for us… It was a 16 year old kid and his friend who took them. We had asked both of them the day before if they saw our bikes, but they said, ‘nope’. Anyway, we got them back. I'm still missing the back wheel, but they said they'll get me a new one. Oh, and the best part . . .the Spanish Elders are now teaching the family.
I'm telling you prayer works!
Other than that, not too many things have happened. We're trying to work with the Ward more in finding people to teach. It's moving slowly but surely. We have a lot of work to do. We're still on bikes. I've been on a bike my entire mission for which I'm grateful; but it's HOT! 97*+!!!
Everyone sounds great but busy which is good. Ryan got his own bench!!?? He's gonna be huge when I get home! We have a little weight room in our apartment with a bench and such but I have had a hard time using it. I am so weak! Ryan is going to beat me up when I get home. I'm still at like 200lbs but it’s all fat ha, ha. You'd think since I've been on a bike so long I would have at least maintained the same weight. “I say unto you nay,” being on a bike just makes me hungry! Maybe now that it's so hot, I’ll sweat it all off? Yeah, maybe that . . .
Okay, we are working and praying like mad and I know you are too. Thank you!
I love you all!
Love, LANCE
Monday, June 20, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 54
Hello Hello one and all!
How has your week been? This one has been an interesting one for us. A few of our investigators dropped off the face of the earth and they all live in the same complex.... we're wondering if they got together and planned it. Hmm.... Sneaky little buggers they are. No, they really are wonderful and we're praying that they will start answering the door soon and their phone for that matter. Interesting. We are working with a DARLING girl named Miriam. She is about 18 years old and cute cute cute. She goes to the Lake Woodlands church (don't ask me what that means) I think its a Christian church and she wants to get baptized there. We pulled out the book of Mormon and read with her 2 nephi chapter 31. She sat back after we were through and said. I've never learned so much in my life! We explained the holy ghost to her and that he was teaching her. We taught her about the authority to baptize and what happened to the church when that authority was taken from the earth. We left her with a chapter to read from the book of Mormon and she is very excited to learn more. She has a twin that we hope to be teaching soon! Honestly, they are beautiful and need to get married in the temple!
I'll tell you what. I've never been happier to know how to cut hair than on my mission. It gets us in so many doors! I'm sad I didn't ask sooner if that's something I could do, but better late than never. People don't always want to know what you have to say but someone always wants a haircut! After a little act of service they are perfectly willing and content to sit and listen to what you have to say. Its a blessing. We have found many new investigators through service and I'm so glad that the lord is able to get us in through something so simple. Yeah for cutting hair!
We have 3 Russians that live in our complex and they are ALWAYS using the computers on Monday. Whether it be skyping their families or using the face book the computers are occupied. We've had to learn how to share but they are just the cutest things you've ever seen. They can speak a few words of English but its tough to hold a conversation with them. Last week we walked in and were not surprised to find them seated in the computer room. They just smiled and held up 10 fingers as if to say, 10 more min. As we were walking out we looked at each other and said how can we share the gospel with them?! Inspiration from above came pouring down and Hermana Coogan pulled out the Joseph Smith movie! We walked right back in and showed them the movie and one of them understood that we wanted to watch it with them. It was WONDERFUL! We had a wonderful lessons with lots of facial expressions, hand movements, and pictures. Darling boys. They'll get baptized one day:) Haha, One just came in and asked where he can find work. I told him to move to Utah! (Heather, will you pass the message onto James and Rachel that I'm sending them 3 Russians.
Ok so now for the news. I will be leaving The Woodlands. Its an interesting sensation. I don't know how happy I am about it but i don't have too much to say concerning the matter. My companion and I have had the greatest 5 weeks together and have become dear dear friends. We have seen miracles and continue to see them daily. They will come whether or not I am serving here in the Woodlands. I will see them in my new area and with my new companion Hermana Casaday. Its weird thinking that this next area may be my last. There is a lot to do and I know that the lord can use me wherever seemeth him good. Here is the exciting part. Hermana Donkin (my sweet, darling friend) will be coming up to the Woodlands to greenie break Hermana Coogan and they together will train a brand-new missionary, straight out of the MTC. Hermana Coogan is so nervous! She'll be amazing and Hermana Donkin is incredible. I'm excited to see what things the lord has in store for the Woodlands Area. These Sisters are just going to transform it and I get butterflies thinking about it! (the good kind) Isn't that exciting? I'm excited! It's all exciting! I think it's odd how ok I am with change. Bring it on! I get a little antsy when things stay the same for too long. We are here to learn and grow and to be stretched. I need it more than anyone. There are however a few things that I'm not thrilled about. #1. Loosing the Walkers. Oh boy, that will be a sad day. They have been my dearest friends while serving out here. I know that the lord allowed them to serve here because he knew I would need them. I love them and will miss them terribly. Good thing we have planes to fly around in! I don't know what I would do if there was a chance that we wouldn't see each other again. Yikes. I suppose its another good thing that this life is so short. I'm really starting to miss some people. Most of them I haven't known on this earth but I know there are many strong relationships that were formed long before I came into this life. What a blessing. #2. Losing the Hansens. Oh boy, what amazing people they are. I know that they will be replaced by another beautiful, chosen couple to come and carry the work of the lord forward in power and with the spirit. The Hansens have been an incredible influence for good and have changed many missionaries lives as well as their own I believe. I'm thrilled that they're no further than an email or a phone call away. I love them and am so thankful for the relationship that we've formed over the time that we've been able to serve together. #3. I'm losing Hermana Coogan for a time! Ah! What a blast and a special time it has been to serve along side this wonderful, sweet girl. She is a powerhouse and a light. I am thankful for the opportunities that the lord gives us. for the people that he puts in our path so that we can learn and grow and progress. So that we can enjoy our precious time on this earth. I have been surrounded by incredible people my entire life. I believe it will continue on that way. Heavenly Father has some amazing children on the earth at this time and It has been a pleasure to rub shoulders with many of them. Oh the lessons we can learn from each one. They're all so different, all have their gifts and talents, their likes and dislikes, insights and ideas. I love them all.
I'm so sorry this has become rather long but I want you to know how much I love you and miss each one of you! You're all so wonderful! I'm thrilled to hear that dad recieved his Fathers Day card. Haha. It was just silly but when my eyes spotted it I couldn't resist. You' are all so special to me and I hope that things are going well and that everyone is healthy and strong! Have an amazing week and I will talk to you soon!
How has your week been? This one has been an interesting one for us. A few of our investigators dropped off the face of the earth and they all live in the same complex.... we're wondering if they got together and planned it. Hmm.... Sneaky little buggers they are. No, they really are wonderful and we're praying that they will start answering the door soon and their phone for that matter. Interesting. We are working with a DARLING girl named Miriam. She is about 18 years old and cute cute cute. She goes to the Lake Woodlands church (don't ask me what that means) I think its a Christian church and she wants to get baptized there. We pulled out the book of Mormon and read with her 2 nephi chapter 31. She sat back after we were through and said. I've never learned so much in my life! We explained the holy ghost to her and that he was teaching her. We taught her about the authority to baptize and what happened to the church when that authority was taken from the earth. We left her with a chapter to read from the book of Mormon and she is very excited to learn more. She has a twin that we hope to be teaching soon! Honestly, they are beautiful and need to get married in the temple!
I'll tell you what. I've never been happier to know how to cut hair than on my mission. It gets us in so many doors! I'm sad I didn't ask sooner if that's something I could do, but better late than never. People don't always want to know what you have to say but someone always wants a haircut! After a little act of service they are perfectly willing and content to sit and listen to what you have to say. Its a blessing. We have found many new investigators through service and I'm so glad that the lord is able to get us in through something so simple. Yeah for cutting hair!
We have 3 Russians that live in our complex and they are ALWAYS using the computers on Monday. Whether it be skyping their families or using the face book the computers are occupied. We've had to learn how to share but they are just the cutest things you've ever seen. They can speak a few words of English but its tough to hold a conversation with them. Last week we walked in and were not surprised to find them seated in the computer room. They just smiled and held up 10 fingers as if to say, 10 more min. As we were walking out we looked at each other and said how can we share the gospel with them?! Inspiration from above came pouring down and Hermana Coogan pulled out the Joseph Smith movie! We walked right back in and showed them the movie and one of them understood that we wanted to watch it with them. It was WONDERFUL! We had a wonderful lessons with lots of facial expressions, hand movements, and pictures. Darling boys. They'll get baptized one day:) Haha, One just came in and asked where he can find work. I told him to move to Utah! (Heather, will you pass the message onto James and Rachel that I'm sending them 3 Russians.
Ok so now for the news. I will be leaving The Woodlands. Its an interesting sensation. I don't know how happy I am about it but i don't have too much to say concerning the matter. My companion and I have had the greatest 5 weeks together and have become dear dear friends. We have seen miracles and continue to see them daily. They will come whether or not I am serving here in the Woodlands. I will see them in my new area and with my new companion Hermana Casaday. Its weird thinking that this next area may be my last. There is a lot to do and I know that the lord can use me wherever seemeth him good. Here is the exciting part. Hermana Donkin (my sweet, darling friend) will be coming up to the Woodlands to greenie break Hermana Coogan and they together will train a brand-new missionary, straight out of the MTC. Hermana Coogan is so nervous! She'll be amazing and Hermana Donkin is incredible. I'm excited to see what things the lord has in store for the Woodlands Area. These Sisters are just going to transform it and I get butterflies thinking about it! (the good kind) Isn't that exciting? I'm excited! It's all exciting! I think it's odd how ok I am with change. Bring it on! I get a little antsy when things stay the same for too long. We are here to learn and grow and to be stretched. I need it more than anyone. There are however a few things that I'm not thrilled about. #1. Loosing the Walkers. Oh boy, that will be a sad day. They have been my dearest friends while serving out here. I know that the lord allowed them to serve here because he knew I would need them. I love them and will miss them terribly. Good thing we have planes to fly around in! I don't know what I would do if there was a chance that we wouldn't see each other again. Yikes. I suppose its another good thing that this life is so short. I'm really starting to miss some people. Most of them I haven't known on this earth but I know there are many strong relationships that were formed long before I came into this life. What a blessing. #2. Losing the Hansens. Oh boy, what amazing people they are. I know that they will be replaced by another beautiful, chosen couple to come and carry the work of the lord forward in power and with the spirit. The Hansens have been an incredible influence for good and have changed many missionaries lives as well as their own I believe. I'm thrilled that they're no further than an email or a phone call away. I love them and am so thankful for the relationship that we've formed over the time that we've been able to serve together. #3. I'm losing Hermana Coogan for a time! Ah! What a blast and a special time it has been to serve along side this wonderful, sweet girl. She is a powerhouse and a light. I am thankful for the opportunities that the lord gives us. for the people that he puts in our path so that we can learn and grow and progress. So that we can enjoy our precious time on this earth. I have been surrounded by incredible people my entire life. I believe it will continue on that way. Heavenly Father has some amazing children on the earth at this time and It has been a pleasure to rub shoulders with many of them. Oh the lessons we can learn from each one. They're all so different, all have their gifts and talents, their likes and dislikes, insights and ideas. I love them all.
I'm so sorry this has become rather long but I want you to know how much I love you and miss each one of you! You're all so wonderful! I'm thrilled to hear that dad recieved his Fathers Day card. Haha. It was just silly but when my eyes spotted it I couldn't resist. You' are all so special to me and I hope that things are going well and that everyone is healthy and strong! Have an amazing week and I will talk to you soon!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Lance Letter 6.14.11
This week has been so sweet! We taught Brandon Hardesty All four lessons within a week or so and his baptism is on Thursday night (June 16). Brandon is 17 and is joining the church. He has some friends in the ward who he knows. He asked me to baptism for which i am grateful to do. Brandon's friends are leaving for a few weeks to Utah to go to EFY and brandon will go to Provo and Salt Lake City to visit the Temple and such. He didn;t make the sign up for the efy on time. And that's why we taught and baptized him so quick.
Elder Bludworth is seriously my favorite companion I've had. He knows how to work hard and effectively and also have fun at the same time. I love him. He reminds me so much of Uncle Todd. We have had a great time. Elder Bludworth goes home soon, in august, Back to New Mexico, Albuquerque.
Other than brandon getting baptized we are striving to find the elect, like another brandon.
Oh this past week we taught a famous Boxer named robert (the Ghost). He is huge in San Jose< and especially Gilroy. He has like 3 world championships and is trying to get a match set up with Paciyuo (Pac Man) also a world champ boxer. Anyways, the missionaries before just knocked on his door so we went back and taught him about the book of Mormon and Joseph smith and he said he would read and pray about the Book of Mormon. he is really religious.
I'm so grateful that Dalton and Dallon and others are going on missions now. That is great.
And Ryan getting MVP!!!!! I always new he had it in him. He is awesome.
It's true i am busy and should try to make more time for writing letters and such.
I love you all and pray for each one of you.
Love Elder Porter
Elder Bludworth is seriously my favorite companion I've had. He knows how to work hard and effectively and also have fun at the same time. I love him. He reminds me so much of Uncle Todd. We have had a great time. Elder Bludworth goes home soon, in august, Back to New Mexico, Albuquerque.
Other than brandon getting baptized we are striving to find the elect, like another brandon.
Oh this past week we taught a famous Boxer named robert (the Ghost). He is huge in San Jose< and especially Gilroy. He has like 3 world championships and is trying to get a match set up with Paciyuo (Pac Man) also a world champ boxer. Anyways, the missionaries before just knocked on his door so we went back and taught him about the book of Mormon and Joseph smith and he said he would read and pray about the Book of Mormon. he is really religious.
I'm so grateful that Dalton and Dallon and others are going on missions now. That is great.
And Ryan getting MVP!!!!! I always new he had it in him. He is awesome.
It's true i am busy and should try to make more time for writing letters and such.
I love you all and pray for each one of you.
Love Elder Porter
Monday, June 13, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 53
Good morning one and all!
This may not be very long but everything is going well! The work is moving forward. There is much to do today (as always). I get cut a few peoples hair today. Haha. Its funny but I'm thrilled to do it. What can I tell you this week. We are teaching Rosibel, Adrianna, David, Claudia, Laura, Humberto and many others but those are the ones that are progressing the most (coming to church, reading the book of Mormon, and praying,) they're not perfect at keeping their commitments but they are on their way to baptism and we couldn't be more thrilled! We are also working with many less actives and that's a tougher situation. People that have known the joy that the gospel brings and have chosen to take a step back and do their "own thing". It is beyond me how that happens but maybe that's a little closed minded on my part. I'm sure they have their stories to share about it but wow. Just come back and receive the greatest happiness that only comes in living the gospel! A lot of it is just laziness and a lack of desire to discipline themselves. Clearly, its not an easy thing to do but that is where sincere prayer and scripture study comes in. You can't do it by yourself because to be honest, yourself isn't a whole lot. In fact that attitude is serving the natural man and why would the natural man ever want to come back to church or go to the temple? He doesn't. He can't. The Natural man is an enemy to god and has been from the fall of Adam and will be forever and ever. We have got to put off the natural man and turn to the only one that makes us worth anything. Our Savior Jesus Christ gives us the strength and the capacity to overcome our weaknesses and ourselves. We don't have to be stuck to what "we" think we want to do. We CAN do what our Heavenly Father knows will make us the happiest. We not only can but we must because it is the only way back to his presence to live with our families forever. There's only one way and that is through Christ the lord. The one name given under heaven whereby man can be saved.
The Lord is indeed getting his work done. The other day we were knocking doors and came upon one that looked a little scary, (quite a few dogs outside, barking, not chained up) normally I would ask my companion if we could come back a little later but..... The spirit had a different plan, the fear was washed away as quickly as the thought came to walk away and we marched right up to the door. The second we knocked on the door a boy of about 20 years old walked out and asked if we would come in before we even said a word. We acted as if that were normal and asked how he'd been doing haha it was funny. He brought out two cold waters and told us to sit down. He continued to tell us about how the elders had knocked on his door 7 days ago and they had talked for an hour about god and the purpose of life. He didn't give them his number and ironically they didn't give him theirs. He had forgotten to what church they belonged and wanted them back. He told us what a miracle it was that we showed up on the door step. By the way the home that we knocked was not his but his aunts and he had woken up that morning and decided to come visit her. Coincidence? I think not! There are zero coincidences in this work. Any missionary can testify to that. This is the work of the lord and we are instruments in his hands being used right and left, however and whenever seemeth him good. He hears the prayers of his children, he knows their thoughts, wants, and worries. He works according to their desires and out of the love he has for us. The perfect love. I don't know that any of us can quite comprehend just what that perfect love looks like, or sounds like but I know what it feels like and there is nothing more penetrating or profound than the pure love of Christ. Its powerful and changes lives. The life of Christ was perfect in every aspect and sense of the word. If we so desire to understand and comprehend it a bit further we each have the opportunity to study his teachings, his example, and the life he lived. That will do more for us than anything we could come up with on our own.
I love you all and pray for you daily. Everything is going great and I couldn't be happier! Thank you for your love, thoughts, and prayers. The gospel is true! Love you Love you!
This may not be very long but everything is going well! The work is moving forward. There is much to do today (as always). I get cut a few peoples hair today. Haha. Its funny but I'm thrilled to do it. What can I tell you this week. We are teaching Rosibel, Adrianna, David, Claudia, Laura, Humberto and many others but those are the ones that are progressing the most (coming to church, reading the book of Mormon, and praying,) they're not perfect at keeping their commitments but they are on their way to baptism and we couldn't be more thrilled! We are also working with many less actives and that's a tougher situation. People that have known the joy that the gospel brings and have chosen to take a step back and do their "own thing". It is beyond me how that happens but maybe that's a little closed minded on my part. I'm sure they have their stories to share about it but wow. Just come back and receive the greatest happiness that only comes in living the gospel! A lot of it is just laziness and a lack of desire to discipline themselves. Clearly, its not an easy thing to do but that is where sincere prayer and scripture study comes in. You can't do it by yourself because to be honest, yourself isn't a whole lot. In fact that attitude is serving the natural man and why would the natural man ever want to come back to church or go to the temple? He doesn't. He can't. The Natural man is an enemy to god and has been from the fall of Adam and will be forever and ever. We have got to put off the natural man and turn to the only one that makes us worth anything. Our Savior Jesus Christ gives us the strength and the capacity to overcome our weaknesses and ourselves. We don't have to be stuck to what "we" think we want to do. We CAN do what our Heavenly Father knows will make us the happiest. We not only can but we must because it is the only way back to his presence to live with our families forever. There's only one way and that is through Christ the lord. The one name given under heaven whereby man can be saved.
The Lord is indeed getting his work done. The other day we were knocking doors and came upon one that looked a little scary, (quite a few dogs outside, barking, not chained up) normally I would ask my companion if we could come back a little later but..... The spirit had a different plan, the fear was washed away as quickly as the thought came to walk away and we marched right up to the door. The second we knocked on the door a boy of about 20 years old walked out and asked if we would come in before we even said a word. We acted as if that were normal and asked how he'd been doing haha it was funny. He brought out two cold waters and told us to sit down. He continued to tell us about how the elders had knocked on his door 7 days ago and they had talked for an hour about god and the purpose of life. He didn't give them his number and ironically they didn't give him theirs. He had forgotten to what church they belonged and wanted them back. He told us what a miracle it was that we showed up on the door step. By the way the home that we knocked was not his but his aunts and he had woken up that morning and decided to come visit her. Coincidence? I think not! There are zero coincidences in this work. Any missionary can testify to that. This is the work of the lord and we are instruments in his hands being used right and left, however and whenever seemeth him good. He hears the prayers of his children, he knows their thoughts, wants, and worries. He works according to their desires and out of the love he has for us. The perfect love. I don't know that any of us can quite comprehend just what that perfect love looks like, or sounds like but I know what it feels like and there is nothing more penetrating or profound than the pure love of Christ. Its powerful and changes lives. The life of Christ was perfect in every aspect and sense of the word. If we so desire to understand and comprehend it a bit further we each have the opportunity to study his teachings, his example, and the life he lived. That will do more for us than anything we could come up with on our own.
I love you all and pray for you daily. Everything is going great and I couldn't be happier! Thank you for your love, thoughts, and prayers. The gospel is true! Love you Love you!
Monday, June 6, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 52
Hello Hello to my wonderful family!
How are you all doing this week? I won't lie, this day has been a long time coming. It's been quite a week. Full of emotions and miracles. Ha I honestly think you will all just die when I tell you the stories of the mission. You'll laugh and cry and just shake your heads at some of the stuff that goes down here. Wow. It is one giant roller coaster ride and we all just hang on for dear life! Never is it one straight shot. You will go from the highest of the highs to the lowest of the lows all in one hour. And then it continues throughout the week. Sometimes the day... I may be stretching it a little bit but my goodness. It definitely keeps you on your toes. So exciting!!
Fun news from home! How great that Tim is going to be taking the big test! He will pass he will pass he will pass!! Even with flying colors:) He and Carlee both will be in my prayers. Congrats to Kenz! That's so fun! Baby number two! Yeah yeah yeah for babies! I hope Ryan does well at basketball camp and that his ankle isn't bothering him too much.
We went fishing this morning with Elder Esplin, Elder Hill (our zone leaders) and then Elder Stringham and Elder Simpson. I caught TWO turtles! haha that was scary. They were not happy! Lots of snapping going on. Haha, poor things.
I feel like I have sooo much to talk about. I don't even know where to start. We have many new investigators and are confident that they will each grab hold of the iron rod and continue onward. They will be baptized hopefully within the next month. That is the prayer. Its weird feeling like you only have a short time left with your mission president. I didn't think I would get so attached but what a blessing to be able to continue that relationship with them throughout my life. Obviously they won't be so readily available but I'm so thankful to my heavenly father for allowing me to serve so closely to such celestial people. The Hansens, the Hammond's (all of you), the Porters (all of you) my sweet family, HEATHER. I am overcome with the love that he has for me, the love that he has for each of his children. Isn't it remarkable. It becomes more and more apparent as you serve your brothers and sisters that are all around you. I'm so happy! The gospel makes people happy! Plain and simple as that. True happiness comes in knowing the plan of our heavenly father and then sticking to that. Not a complicated thing to figure out. Now, clearly when you toss Satan into the mix he tends to make things harder than they need to be but he plays a very significant role in it all as well so being aware of it all is the safest, most secure way back to our heavenly father and we become aware through a consistent study of the book of Mormon, praying both day and night and in between, going to the temple as often as time permits, and service! Serve serve serve. There are so many people that just need to be loved and hugged and listened to. Pray for an opportunity to serve and it won't be long until you find yourself being drawn to someone without you really knowing why, you'll find out as soon as you offer that help that we are all so capable of giving.
I love you all and I'm well aware that I am preaching to the choir. You're all so wonderful and my greatest example of Christ like living. Thank you for keeping your testimonies burning bright and avoid the tarnish that comes as we neglect those small and simple things that are essential in coming to understand the plan that has been prepared, Christ being the center core of it. He is the one true way to happiness. It is only in and through our Savior that we can gain eternal life. I know that is true. I love you I love you I do I do! You're just the very greatest and pray for your safety and happiness. Stay True!
How are you all doing this week? I won't lie, this day has been a long time coming. It's been quite a week. Full of emotions and miracles. Ha I honestly think you will all just die when I tell you the stories of the mission. You'll laugh and cry and just shake your heads at some of the stuff that goes down here. Wow. It is one giant roller coaster ride and we all just hang on for dear life! Never is it one straight shot. You will go from the highest of the highs to the lowest of the lows all in one hour. And then it continues throughout the week. Sometimes the day... I may be stretching it a little bit but my goodness. It definitely keeps you on your toes. So exciting!!
Fun news from home! How great that Tim is going to be taking the big test! He will pass he will pass he will pass!! Even with flying colors:) He and Carlee both will be in my prayers. Congrats to Kenz! That's so fun! Baby number two! Yeah yeah yeah for babies! I hope Ryan does well at basketball camp and that his ankle isn't bothering him too much.
We went fishing this morning with Elder Esplin, Elder Hill (our zone leaders) and then Elder Stringham and Elder Simpson. I caught TWO turtles! haha that was scary. They were not happy! Lots of snapping going on. Haha, poor things.
I feel like I have sooo much to talk about. I don't even know where to start. We have many new investigators and are confident that they will each grab hold of the iron rod and continue onward. They will be baptized hopefully within the next month. That is the prayer. Its weird feeling like you only have a short time left with your mission president. I didn't think I would get so attached but what a blessing to be able to continue that relationship with them throughout my life. Obviously they won't be so readily available but I'm so thankful to my heavenly father for allowing me to serve so closely to such celestial people. The Hansens, the Hammond's (all of you), the Porters (all of you) my sweet family, HEATHER. I am overcome with the love that he has for me, the love that he has for each of his children. Isn't it remarkable. It becomes more and more apparent as you serve your brothers and sisters that are all around you. I'm so happy! The gospel makes people happy! Plain and simple as that. True happiness comes in knowing the plan of our heavenly father and then sticking to that. Not a complicated thing to figure out. Now, clearly when you toss Satan into the mix he tends to make things harder than they need to be but he plays a very significant role in it all as well so being aware of it all is the safest, most secure way back to our heavenly father and we become aware through a consistent study of the book of Mormon, praying both day and night and in between, going to the temple as often as time permits, and service! Serve serve serve. There are so many people that just need to be loved and hugged and listened to. Pray for an opportunity to serve and it won't be long until you find yourself being drawn to someone without you really knowing why, you'll find out as soon as you offer that help that we are all so capable of giving.
I love you all and I'm well aware that I am preaching to the choir. You're all so wonderful and my greatest example of Christ like living. Thank you for keeping your testimonies burning bright and avoid the tarnish that comes as we neglect those small and simple things that are essential in coming to understand the plan that has been prepared, Christ being the center core of it. He is the one true way to happiness. It is only in and through our Savior that we can gain eternal life. I know that is true. I love you I love you I do I do! You're just the very greatest and pray for your safety and happiness. Stay True!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Lance Letter 5.31.11
Thank you for every one's love and letters.
Dang, 20 years old...........it does not feel like it. The way my body is and the stamina i have one might think i was 65. I'm beginning to question.
Mom ye need not fear, your son is in good hands. Jimmy (drug dealer) Is the nicest person in the world, Just a little miss understood. We taught him the Plan Of Salvation last night and he said "it makes sense" and that he "believes it". "Of course it makes sense!" I said to him. He said It seemed familiar.
Well next week is transfers and its like 50/50 if i go or stay. There truly is not a better area in the mission. I wish i could stay here the rest of my time, but the Lord might have other plans. I have found such a great need to be in a hurry and to do everything you can to build the kingdom of God where you are, because there is just no time to just sit and do nothing!! That is how the Jackson's have been from day one since they've been here and i hope the missionaries will stay purpose driven and spirit directed as the transitions from different presidents will take place.
We had a Baptism scheduled for the 11th of June with an investigator who we tracted into a few weeks ago. Her name is Devina Castio, she's 18 and has a 1 year old son. We taught her and her brother the Restoration. The lesson was awesome. but she didn't come to church last week. So it might take a Little bit longer. We supposed to teach several referrals this week and will hopefully get some baptism dates from them. The Work continues, But not as rapidly as a we would like.
That's cool that Ryan got to go play some ball with some friends of mine. To bad about his ankle. He's tough.
Time is flying by, and i feel like a just started. So much needs to be done and i only have a year to do it! YIKES!!
Fathers day is coming up, The second since I've been out here. I never seem to recognize how great my parents have been in my life, and for the impact that my mom and dad have made upon me. Thank you so much, can't say it enough. I love you all
Thank you for the many prayers and know that i pray for you as welll
Love Elder Porter
Ps. Thank you so much for the package!
Dang, 20 years old...........it does not feel like it. The way my body is and the stamina i have one might think i was 65. I'm beginning to question.
Mom ye need not fear, your son is in good hands. Jimmy (drug dealer) Is the nicest person in the world, Just a little miss understood. We taught him the Plan Of Salvation last night and he said "it makes sense" and that he "believes it". "Of course it makes sense!" I said to him. He said It seemed familiar.
Well next week is transfers and its like 50/50 if i go or stay. There truly is not a better area in the mission. I wish i could stay here the rest of my time, but the Lord might have other plans. I have found such a great need to be in a hurry and to do everything you can to build the kingdom of God where you are, because there is just no time to just sit and do nothing!! That is how the Jackson's have been from day one since they've been here and i hope the missionaries will stay purpose driven and spirit directed as the transitions from different presidents will take place.
We had a Baptism scheduled for the 11th of June with an investigator who we tracted into a few weeks ago. Her name is Devina Castio, she's 18 and has a 1 year old son. We taught her and her brother the Restoration. The lesson was awesome. but she didn't come to church last week. So it might take a Little bit longer. We supposed to teach several referrals this week and will hopefully get some baptism dates from them. The Work continues, But not as rapidly as a we would like.
That's cool that Ryan got to go play some ball with some friends of mine. To bad about his ankle. He's tough.
Time is flying by, and i feel like a just started. So much needs to be done and i only have a year to do it! YIKES!!
Fathers day is coming up, The second since I've been out here. I never seem to recognize how great my parents have been in my life, and for the impact that my mom and dad have made upon me. Thank you so much, can't say it enough. I love you all
Thank you for the many prayers and know that i pray for you as welll
Love Elder Porter
Ps. Thank you so much for the package!
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