Fire in the complex!! Actually happened about 20 feet from our appartment, but the firetrucks came right up to our door!
Well, definitely a week of miracles! We've been more blessed as we've been really putting an emphasis on obedience than I've ever seen at any other time in my mission!
Starting at the beginning of the week, we had a very good lesson of the Doctrine of Christ with a family we found as they were out walking. The miracle actually began, though, when we realized that their apartment complex wasn't far away, as the name implied, but right around the corner! We had a wonderful lesson with them, and then that Saturday, and amazing tour of the Church. The husband said he really liked the emphasis that the Church has on returning to heaven as a family, and said that he has never heard or felt that before in any other church: Salvation is an individual operation, but we should enjoy it with those we love. They didn't come to church this past Sunday, but we still have great faith that they will continue to learn and grow in the Gospel!! We think they're married as well, which is another miracle! We just need to keep up that faith, and if they're prepared, the Lord will help us know what they need to do to progress and receive all of the blessings of the Gospel.
Later, we "mixed it up" as our Zone Leaders suggested, and had a tour of the church with a family that was walking by outside. We were in the church building, with an appointment that had just fallen through. We looked outside and saw this family walking by, and decided to invite them on a tour of the church. At least the husband really enjoyed it! They speak more of a language that we won't be teaching in (AKA: Chinese), but the husband has friends who are members, and he gave us his address to pass on to missionaries who will teach in his language!
And I think one of the greatest miracles that we saw this past week was Flora and her daughter. We found them in a complex that we hadn't visited very often, just because the people there don't seem very ready or receptive. But as we made our way through, Elder Rodriguez had the thought to go back and talk to someone. We both know now that that thought was inspired of the Spirit, because she, as well as one of her daughters, has been so prepared for the gospel. They have both been to a baptism, church tour, church meetings (all 3 hours), and the charla fogonera, and both are preparing for baptism on the 23rd, if all goes well. When we asked her if she would offer the closing prayer, she was so excited! I've NEVER seen anyone so excited to say a prayer as she was!! And she gave thanks to Heavenly Father for the opportunity to prepare for baptism in her prayer!! We're so excited to work with her!
We've really been blessed with these experiences here! I know it has a connection to the change in focus to trying to be exactly obedient. There are still times that we realize that we could have done more, and that we're lacking in some areas, but repentance is a wonderful thing! We really are trying to give our best effort, and the Lord has blessed us and led us those who are prepared.
Well, I also wanted to send some pictures, so I think I'll start working on that right now! It's definitely warm here! We hear throughout the week that it's been in the 100's, and I think one of the highest is around 107, with the humidity rolling in, too.
It sounds like the week has been great! I love hearing about all your stories, and seeing how much everyone is growing! I love y'all!!!
This truly is the best thing we can have - the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our lives, and to be a part of His Church. This work is true, and He leads and guides it.
I love you!! Have a great week!!
Con mucho amor, a infinidad - y mas alla!!
Elder Devin Collins (El Devinator)
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