Dear Family and Friends,
Hey the summer swimming is powerful! I am glad everyone loves it. It will physically bless them. If they complain, tell them they have to do some exercise or they are breaking
Doc and Cov 88:124. Those words come straight from The Lord so don't joke. I wish I had some tri tip. That sounds pretty fantastic. I want to eat something other than soup, rice, or assorted boiled meats. Yesterday we got fed by a member and it was fresh off the fire! The banku was just taken out of the pot hot as magma and served. The soup also straight from the fire. Remember everything you eat with your hands which I could not feel afterwards.
So this week, we were hit by some interesting surprises. The Prophet and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said no longer allow stake missionaries to serve. Part time missionaries are now only ward and branch missionaries. Both my companion and Elder Larson's companion were stake missionaries. We as an effect were put together and the areas combined. The area itself is smaller than my first in Nkawkaw so it won't be a problem. Thank you for fasting for me this week. As I prayed to begin my fast I had the distinct impression to fast for you all as well. I know that you will all be well and protected.
In other news, Today we had a zone activity and it was sweet! Elder Larson and I were hailed by the Africans as the greatest players. We played defense and it was so much fun. I love playing football now more than anything. Maybe one day you will see me in the World Cup hahahahahahahahahahaha.
You know as I was reflecting this week on what I have accomplished thus far in my 9 months on mission, I was drawn to what I will be remembered as when I leave this country. For me I have had so far 7 baptisms, the names and dates of which I have memorized. One thought that came to mind was that in some eyes, that number might be viewed as small. It would be easy to get down when you compare yourself to others so I pushed out the thoughts and continued the day. Later that evening we were on our way out of a lesson we had with a recent convert. He was baptized in January by Elders I haven't met. In the lesson, we discussed the importance of the priesthood and the power that comes when you magnify your calling. The father and the firstborn are the only ones who have, and who are old enough to hold, the priesthood in the family. The son speaks not even small English. The father can understand more but can't really read it or speak very well. I had the thought in the lesson to have us set a goal that by the 3rd of July, this father son team would bless the sacrament. They accepted. As I left that lesson, my mind was drawn back to what I had pondered earlier. I myself may not be a missionary with hundreds of baptisms. I may not be one that is mission famous. The things that came to my mind as according to my accomplishments was that I will love everyone that I meet and God through me will work the miracles that need to be worked. I have seen so far that pure joy comes when you see those you love progress in the gospel. Seeing my converts receive the priesthood, pass the sacrament, give talks, and serve in callings have filled my heart with great joy. I know that God's hand is in missionary work. He will make it sweet for those who obey his prophets, keep his commandments, and strive diligently to become better. I am grateful for all my loved ones, friends and family, who have striven so far in becoming better. They are great examples to me of what the Atonement of our Lord Jesus Christ can really do. For all of my beloved family I am so so grateful!
