November 25, 2013

Hola hola from the country down south!

It has been an interesting week for sure. We've had a LOT of our planned lessons fall through and we have been unable to teach. But, at the same time, we've had a lot of miracles and perfectly timed visits. It's been amazing. First off, we ended up stopping by a member's house on a whim and she was feeling really down, emotionally and spiritually. We were able to help her with an incredibly spiritual, impromptu message. Then also, we found a new family to teach! We knocked on their door but obviously no one was home. Just as we were getting ready to leave a family comes up the stairs and opens that exact door. We had seen this family a few minutes prior in the street but didn't know they were THIS family.

We're also filling our time with searching for something called 'The Lost Sheep' or 'Ovejas Perdidas'. These are people who were baptized about 15 years ago and the church at this time isn't sure where they are. So...we ask neighbors if they live here, but it's interesting because in this area there are two obstacles. The first is that it's mostly factories, so 15 years ago it was actually residential-ish. Not anymore. Also, the directions changed. So 41st avenida is now 13 avenida. UGH!!! But, we've managed to find out that many don't live here.

Also, we found someone who is super excited to get baptized! She told us the first visit that she feels this is the right path. WOW! That was so incredibly amazing!

Some downers have been that we have lost investigators this week. One of our favorites left suddenly because she was having problems with her daughter. We're incredibly sad, but we know that if she really wants to continue in her learning about the gospel, the Lord will make it happen. We have her new address, so we're going to pass it along to the missionaries in her area.

 We had a Stake Conference this week and that was wonderful too. There were so many people that came from different local areas. It's a little mind blowing to see so many Mormons in one place after Laguna Seca and Cuilapa. The messages were given by Apostle Richard G Scott (who speaks Spanish!) and Elder Henry B Eyering. They were great messages and specifically intended for Guatemala only! My favorite part was that Elder Richard G Scott talked about modesty for women, the divine role of women and how the men MUST treat their wives with respect. It is something SO needed for Guatemala to hear.

All and all, it has been a great week. Although we didn't get to teach much, I was very grateful for the blessings and miracles we were able to see this week. I had to cheer my companion up a little on this and help her recognize those miracles in our week. But, we're pressing on and look forward to seeing the Lord's hand more and more in this area. DyC 3:3 (I think) The plans of men can be destroyed, but Lord's plans never can be. Love it! I love the mission and, as odd as it sounds, I love being forced to depend on the Lord for direction and being molded to what He needs me to become.

 :) Ok family and friends. That's about all I have time for today. I hope you all enjoy this larger installment. I know I've stalled a bit with the cultural aspects of life in Guatemala, but I'll try to include more next time. Love you all! Cuidense!

 Love,

Hermana Schultz