December 23, 2013

 

This week has been wonderful. We have worked really hard and obtained many blessings. We've had the opportunity to do lots of service too. We have delivered things to a family in need, we have gone caroling and seen the joy that it brings. I have celebrated 9 months in the mission (WHAT?!) We have met new families who need the gospel, we have been building our faith. I have marveled at times how our coming in contact with people can pour blesses on their lives. One family with whom we have started teaching has received so many blesses and support from people...all because we stopped for directions and she accepted to hear a short message. I love this family so so sooo much.

We have two people preparing for baptism. They have accepted a date, but for health at times cannot make it to church. We have faith too that someone is going to be baptized this Saturday. What a wonderful thing is faith! 

One of the best gifts a missionary can receive is when someone helps become friends with our investigators. There is nothing more disheartening than to see people we care about and are teaching sit in the church with absolutely no one talking to them. Then, someone goes and sits next to them and talks to them...we feel such a relief and joy. Someone will help take care of them. The thing is...we have the amazing opportunity to know so many people and they are all so wonderful! I love them so much! It breaks my heart that others do not take the opportunity to know them. What they are missing! The worst is that I know I won't always be here to support and love them personally. We all NEED support. Those to whom these things are new...need support too. So, this holiday season, I exhort all of you to know someone new. Whether it's in the church or outside, seek for someone who is in need of a helping hand, who needs someone to talk to. No one wants to feel alone. Help brighten someone's world. This is the best gift a missionary can have.

 This is a rather short message, but I feel it's sufficient. It has been a wonderful week. We have felt incredible exhausted from all we've been doing, but it fills one with satisfaction and an assurity that we are doing all we can. Love being here. Love the Mission and love the Gospel! I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas! I love you all. Take care!

Love, Hermana Schultz