This has been a week full of little miracles. One does not stand out to me more than another, but they have added together to make a fantastic week. Let me tell you about some of them.
Some of Elder Bosewell’s parting words were, “Success is a gift.” This week we have been rather blessed. We had three investigators at church yesterday—Cyr, Lee and Amir. Both Cyr and Lee are looking forward to baptism. I am excited for what lies ahead and know that Heavenly Father is blessing us with this gift of success.
Cyr grew up in France, and I shared about him last week. Cyr has such a love for the scriptures. He reads The Book of Mormon between each of our visits, and then likes to teach us about what he has learned. It is clear that he has a desire not only to learn, but also to teach. I think we all know that we learn a whole lot more when we teach, so his progress is coming along well. I will be sure to report more as we continue to teach him.
We have had amazing member work. After six weeks, I know the members fairly well and have pinpointed on the map where they live. As a result, it makes it rather easy to know who to call for fellowshipping, and we have had amazing success! The ward is willing to serve; we just need to be willing to ask. One specific miracle was Sister Poole. I noticed that she lived fairly close to an appointment we had on Sunday evening and needed a fellowshipper for. During church, I asked her if she would be available to come and she said yes. It was an answer to prayers and was so easy I almost thought she misunderstood what I was asking.
Then at zone conference, I am beginning to relearn the things I have learned. I once again was taught to open my heart and to remember Elder Blackburn’s advice “To be willing to put our heart on the line.” I will continue to remember what I have learned and apply it in my daily work.
Furthermore, I was struck by the assistant’s comments about desires, thoughts and actions. I recently have been pondering what increases desire to share the gospel. We learn from Preach My Gospel, Chapter 1: "What is My Purpose as a Missionary?" that studying the Atonement of Jesus Christ will increase that desire. Furthermore, Elder Bosewell and Elder Smart invited us to study charity, promising an increased desire. I would add that increased understanding or excitement about gospel doctrine increases our desire. But what else increases our desire? This is something I will continue to ponder and ask others about, so I can find out how to increase my personal desire to do missionary work.
Lastly, I am impressed by the leader’s trust in their missionaries. This week we were supposed to have an exchange with the Manchester South sisters, but unfortunately, one of the other sisters was a bit poorly. When I called the zone leaders to ask about what we should do, rather than being given an answer, Elder Deliabitiki asked, “Well what do you think we should do Sister Jack?” I will admit he caught me a bit off-guard. At the same time, I was grateful he values my suggestions enough to ask for them and consider them. When leaders demonstrate trust in those they serve, it attributes to positive growth and increased faith of missionaries and their individual significance/impact on missionary efforts.
Hope all is well and everyone enjoyed their time together this weekend! I send my love to you all and hope you have a wonderful week!
Love, Becca
p.s. The first picture is of my companion, Sister Howes, and me.
The next is a day after my umbrella broke...they usually turn inside out or something, but this one just broke. Oh, umbrellas get some serious use as a missionary in Manchester.
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