Every Child of God is Needed

First week of the new transfer went well. It has begun to snow a couple times, none of it is sticking but we're definitely in the winter months. Last year at this time I was in the middle of a Peruvian summer drinking hot coco and yeah it didn't make any sense, miss those friends I made. I am blessed to have this opportunity of experiencing different kinds of Christmas and am excited for what is to come. 

We have been focusing on members this past week and plan on maintaining this momentum through the coming weeks. One less active in particular has not been to church in many years and was questioning the existence of God. We were able to explain some principles and ask some thought-provoking questions. I pray for the spirit to touch him and be with us as we visit him again this week. Our friend José is on date for baptism and we have been working to figure out details for the difficult situation he is in. What stands out is the desire he has to change and follow the commandments of God, he just has an obstacle to get over just like we all do in our own lives. 

At district council we were able to discuss ideas on the next step for him as well as others working towards baptism. I was able to set some goals for the district with a focus on members as I already mentioned before and we plan on being more unified this transfer. I shared 1 Corinthians chapter 12 which talks about the body of Christ and the importance of each member. We all have spiritual gifts and every one is vital to the operation. 

Yesterday we had the opportunity to hear from Elder and Sister Kearon of the Seventy as they are touring our mission this coming week. Sister Kearon shared her thoughts regarding competition and comparison. "Someone else's gifts are not a threat to you... When you feel an unhealthy sense of competition, ask yourself, what is your motivation?" She included 1 Corinthians 12 as well and stressed the importance of understanding our own importance in this work. Her husband, with a classic British accent, shared some additional ideas about our thoughts, emotions, and reactions. "How do you think the Lord is feeling about coming back? He can't wait until He comes back. If you are being hard on yourself, just stop it!" No matter what your starting disposition may be you can always add and learn more attributes of and through Christ.

This week I am going to become and be the message that I teach. Learn to choose your reactions when hard things happen; as we learn in Alma 62:41, will you harden or soften your heart? We truly do thrive on opposition so attack this week with that in mind. Anyways Georgia is great and the people are greater, hope everyone's doing well. Cuidanse!!