Family!!!!
So... this week, we finally decided that none of our investigators are progressing... And none of them have been meeting with us. It is so sad... But we met some really cool new people!!! We are excited. Though most of the people we have been working with are less actives and recent converts. I finally don't feel super sad about not having a baptism still. I still feel sad. But I realized that keeping the recently baptized members strong and bringing back those who have already been baptized is vital to our work as well. Because we can baptize and baptize. But if they aren't taken care of... they may fall away and add to the number of less actives. And that doesn't help our ward or the kingdom of God here in Portugal. My goal is to leave our ward better than we found it. And if that means bringing back and strengthening. Then that is what I will do. For that is just as important as baptizing! :) So we are happier now. We both were pretty depressed. But it's already passed. Something I read in my studies this morning helped too! I told Steffy as well. But I was ready about Paul, and oh goodness. He went through a lot. But the pattern of missionary work is the same. Many don't want to listen. Generally a lot more want nothing to do with us, and only a few are ready to listen and feel the truthfulness of our message. It has always been that way. With all the prophets, up to Christ. And the apostles afterwards. But they always received rejection and opposition. Knowing that helps a ton in my mission. And it is so cool to make that comparison with ourselves. That we are similar to the prophets of old. Going out to other lands to preach the good message. To find those who are willing to humble themselves before the Lord and turn to him with full purpose of heart. I am so glad that I have this opportunity to be here! It is really hard at times yes, but I have never grown so much in such a short amount of time, ever. Thank you for all you do for me! I am so blessed to have you guys as my family!!! I can't thank you enough for everything over the years. I love you all sooooo much! I hope you all have a fabulous week! <3
Love Always,
Sister Amanda Stokes
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