A White Halloween

This past week Sister Wilson and I have been attempting to figure out the island. Its very confusing in that I have no clue where I am half the time... this place is a maze. But by the grace of God I'm beginning to figure my way around! I can actually drive two or three places without the GPS which I thought would never happen. There's my accomplishment for the week!

This past week we were able to witness an amazing woman enter into the sacred covenant of baptism. I had to share a little of Jesse's story with you all because its really taught me a lot.

​This is Jesse and her precious son. Jesse began learning of the restored gospel before I arrived on Bainbridge. I can't expressed how blessed I am to have been able to come serve here during the time she was being taught. Jesse is a true example of how the gospel blesses us in our lives. She is also an example of following the spirit even when you don't know why. Back in June Jesse just felt like going to church one day and so she got her son ready and walked to the building on Sunday morning. She told us she was terrified to go but knew she needed to and as soon as she walked in she just felt peace flow over her. Jesse has had a long journey that led her to where she is today and stands as an example of how the Savior helps those who truly want His help.

 

I wish there was time and words to explain the lessons I've learned from Jesse. Her unlimited love and concern for her son taught me a lot about our Father in Heaven's even more unceasing love and concern for each of us. Her desire to learn and to study the scriptures taught me that we should constantly be taking joy in the sacred word gifted to us by our Heavenly Father. There's just so many things that make this moment such a miracle. I can't begin to properly describe it. Jesse has revived my testimony in how our Heavenly Father is just waiting to reach out and help all of us as soon as we ask for it. 

Jesse is just one example of why I love this sacred work of being a missionary! I've been pondering on the scripture verses found in Doctrine and Covenants 18:15-17

"15 And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and  bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my  Father!

 16 And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the   kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me!

 17 Behold, you have my gospel before you, and my rock,and my salvation."

I seriously love these verses in the fact that they teach the only way to truly find joy. I love being a part of the work of salvation and while I know we never truly bring someone to the gospel, I have been able to experience the joy that comes in being a vessel and witness as our Father brings all who are willing home. What a gift! So here's my invitation for you this week. Pray to feel this joy. Its really like no other. Pray to have an opportunity to help someone take a step towards our Father's kingdom and pray to recognize when it comes. 

I love you all and hope you have a great week and marvel at the fact that its November. Wow... yikes. 

Take care until next week!

Love,