Monday, December 7, 2015

Just Like Dorothy – Kansas Is My Home

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Hola!

This week we had MLC's – and on the 3-hour car ride – we decided to call some former investigators and less-actives and invite them to watch the new Christmas Initiative, “A Savior is Born.” One of the gals that we talked with was Araceli and she wanted to meet with us again. We scheduled an appointment with her and when we went over she called her whole family into the room for the discussion. It was one of the most powerful lessons that I have had on my mission and the Spirit was so strong. It is amazing to witness the Spirit that the Christmas video brings and the eternal conversations that take place afterwards. Her 15-year-old son said the prayer at the very end and that topped everything off. Araceli was in tears and there was no way that anyone could deny the special Spirit that was there.

We received a random text from Lise (gal from England) this week. She told us that she has had some experiences and tender mercies that have happened in her life and that she is ready to draw closer to God. It was such a miracle! We went over to see her and one of the first things we found out was that she had not had a cigarette in the two months that we stopped visiting her. There was one instance where she almost gave in – she went to the store and as she was walking up to the counter she saw the Elders and she knew that it was a sign from God that she shouldn’t buy the cigarettes. Even her countenance was completely changed and there was a totally different light in her eyes. But the coolest part was...SHE CAME TO CHURCH! This was her first actual Sacrament meeting and she absolutely loved it. Later that night we were able to watch the Christmas Devotional with her at her house – she loved President Uchtdorf! Such an amazing miracle and a reminder that everyone has their time and the gospel can change anyone.

Alma 12:9-10...
9 And now Alma began to expound these things unto him, saying: It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God; nevertheless they are laid under a strict command that they shall not impart only according to the portion of his word which he doth grant unto the children of men, according to the heed and diligence which they give unto him.
10 And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full.

One of the greatest things that I have learned as a missionary is the importance of covenants and promises with God. We can apply the Atonement and receive the enabling power as we make promises with Him. We receive guidance and added strength as we fulfill the promises and use the redemptive side when we don’t fulfill our part and need to repent. This gospel incorporates everything we do and who we are – and unless we submit our will – we can’t become something greater than our own. We have all of the tools necessary – and it is our responsibility to use them – and use them correctly. The Book of Mormon is the word of God – there is no other book that will bring greater peace, light, and direction. Reading and praying with a sincere heart will bring about personal revelation. Which revelation reveals the mysteries of God and His plan – the plan of which allows us to return to live with Him and be as one. Our understanding and perspective is illuminated as we keep all of the commandments, both as a collective group as Saints and also personal commandments. President Thomas S. Monson holds all of the Keys of the Priesthood and stands as a special witness that Jesus is the Christ. Jesus Christ is our Savior, he is our advocate with the Father, he is also our friend and brother. He will lift us, walk with us, and help us see our divinity within. I love my Savior – I know that he is the Christ. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the only church here on the Earth that contains the fullness of His gospel. We are God’s children and He loves each and every one of us and He wants us to return to live with Him comfortably in the highest glory. I love Kansas (and Lamar) – this is where “I grew up” and I will forever be grateful for all of these people, experiences, and adventures that I have had!

Jesucristo es nuestro Salvador, y sufrió por cada uno de nosotros individualmente. Él sabe exactamente cómo nos sentimos, y sabe exactamente cómo consolador, ascensor, y donde para guiarnos. Sé que al aplicar continuamente la Expiación cada uno y todos los días, vamos a volver a vivir con nuestro Padre Celestial, y estar cómodo en su presencia. El Libro de Mormón es la palabra de Dios, así como todas las otras Escrituras, tanto antiguas como modernas. Las familias pueden ser eternas, y vamos a ver a nuestros seres queridos de nuevo. Hay trabajo eterna para hacer aquí en la Tierra, así como en el mundo espiritual. Me encanta este evangelio, y sé que podemos tener un conocimiento perfecto de todas las cosas. En el nombre de Jesucristo, Amén.

Hebrews 12:1...
1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.

Hermana Adams
Practicing Homecoming Talk

Misionera Amor!
Siempre Una Aventura
Hermana Adams