tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77484149720202620772024-03-08T04:32:45.577-08:00Sister Annelise RecordSister Annelise Record is serving an English speaking 18 month full-time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Texas San Antonio Mission (TSAM).Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-37662891891857474692016-02-01T14:32:00.003-08:002016-02-01T14:32:34.111-08:00Final WeekArea: Leon Valley/9th Ward<br />Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott <br /><br />Well, here it is... my final week in the mission. Who would have thought it would ever go by so fast? It's strange to think that in a couple days I'll be back in Utah where the weather is quite different than Texas. <br /><br />There are a few scriptures that come to my mind as I conclude my full-time mission.<br /><br />"So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel... For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth..."<br />Romans 1:15-16<br /><br />"...I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life."<br />3 Nephi 5:13<br /><br />"For behold, this is my work and my glory; to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man."<br />Moses 1:39<br /><br />"And I was led by the spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which I should do."<br />1 Nephi 4:6<br /><br />"...let us glory, yea, we will glory in the Lord; yea, we will rejoice, for our joy is full; yea, we will praise our God forever. Behold, who can glory too much in the Lord? Yea, who can say too much of his great power, and of his mercy, and of his long-suffering towards the children of men? Behold, I say unto you, I cannot say the smallest part of which I feel."<br />Alma 26:16<br /><br />"...I do not boast of my own strength, nor in my own wisdom; but behold, my joy is full, yea, my heart is brim with joy, and I will rejoice in my God."<br />Alma 26:11<br /><br />Indeed, my joy is full. I have served the Lord with all of my heart, might, mind, and strength. He is my God and I will continue to serve Him. I've put my hand to the plow and I am never looking back. How grateful I am for his loving hand in my life, and the lives of each of his children.<br /><br />This has been a wonderful week! {M} is progressing swiftly, despite her health challenges. The goal for her baptism right now is February 13th. =) We taught her about the law of tithing and she had already been living it. She has such incredible faith. She has always been actively involved in her church and contributed much. She will make an incredible member.<br /><br />Throughout this week I couldn't help but ponder on the love I feel for these people. I feel privileged to have tasted of God's love for them. As we sat in the dining room of a particular family, finally teaching the the restoration for the first time after many attempts, Dora spoke about the love she feels from God. They are in very humble circumstances, and are going through so much, yet she sees the hand of the Lord and recognizes his blessings. My heart swelled with an understanding of Heavenly Father's awareness of her and her family. Even though their understanding is very basic right now, the Lord is very pleased with their desire to come closer to him.<br /><br />While we were taking a restroom break in a McDonald’s one bright sunny day, I was waiting for my companion in the lobby, and an older gentleman with long grey hair and a grey beard approached me and asked, "Are you a preacher?" For a split second in my mind I thought about our responsibility to preach repentance and I responded, "Yes, sir." He lit up and said, "Oh, I could just tell. By the way to look, I could tell." He squinted as he looked at my name tag and asked, "What church are you from?" I told him. He was pleased at the reply as he remembered years ago when young men in white shirts and ties came to him and talked with him. By this time Sister Scott came out and joined me in the conversation. We briefly explained the Book of Mormon and invited him to attend church with us. It was a delightful encounter. I just love when people notice that we're different and come to us with questions. <br /><br />As I depart from the TSAM, this land and these people will always own my heart. With that said, I look forward to the next phase of life and I know that it is all a part of God's plan of progression. There is work for me to do that I cannot do here. And I am ready.<br /><br />I am a servant of God, called of Him to declare Jesus Christ, who is my shepherd. I am, because of Him! I am willing to serve Him in all regards now and throughout eternity. My heart, might, mind, and strength are His. "For many are called, but few are chosen". (My personal purpose statement)<br /><br />Love,<br />Your sister missionary, Sister Record <br /><br />P.S. See you soon!<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Photos</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3mUcqjVfLSY/Vq_cbG9T94I/AAAAAAAADiw/7UeRZB6A5fU/s1600/20160201-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3mUcqjVfLSY/Vq_cbG9T94I/AAAAAAAADiw/7UeRZB6A5fU/s320/20160201-3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Scott and I with the Rothstein's. He is one of our ward<br />
mission leaders.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZJkYoA7axU/Vq_cbCZZ8bI/AAAAAAAADi8/fdCHuzn3IMc/s1600/20160201-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZJkYoA7axU/Vq_cbCZZ8bI/AAAAAAAADi8/fdCHuzn3IMc/s320/20160201-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>She also has a really good sad face... She doesn't want me to leave. ;)</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1pk_vdFddFQ/Vq_cbNz13mI/AAAAAAAADis/7-c89e36_X4/s1600/20160201-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1pk_vdFddFQ/Vq_cbNz13mI/AAAAAAAADis/7-c89e36_X4/s320/20160201-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Fun at Chick-Fil-A. Sister Scott has a great smolder, doesn't she? Ha ha!</i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-31447555270947703172016-02-01T14:21:00.001-08:002016-02-01T14:21:35.441-08:00Because of HimArea: Leon Valley/9th Ward<br />
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott <br />
<br />
It's official, I've passed 18 months... I can hardly believe I've been on my mission this long. <br />
<br />
Words cannot express the joy I feel right now. We had the opportunity to go to {A}'s baptism last Saturday. The Johnson's took us and we brought {M} along to see it too. It was wonderful to see Valley Hi again. {A} has come so far, and has overcome so much to get to the point where she is at now. The moment we walked in, it was a joyful reunion. I could not wipe the smile off my face the entire service. <br />
<br />
What is the gate that leads to the path of eternal life? Repentance and baptism. {A} is a beautiful example of one who has "[pressed] forward, that [she] might obtain the path which led unto the tree..." (1 Nephi 8:21)<br />
<br />
After the baptism we talked about it with {M}, who also will be getting baptized soon. She told us that all her life there have been gaps that no one has been able to fill. But now as she is learning about the gospel, she recognizes that those gaps are being filled. <br />
<br />
Our purpose is to "teach repentance, and baptize converts." This is who we are and this is why we are here. I am so grateful for our Savior, Jesus Christ who paved the way for us to live in His presence again. It is only through Christ that we can be saved. It is because of him that we can become clean from our sins and enjoy his peace in this life, and the life to come. But we first must enter the gate. Repentance and baptism by one holding the priesthood authority of God. Moroni is a wonderful example of teaching repentance and baptizing converts. He said,<br />
<br />
"Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ; and if by the grace of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can in nowise deny the power of God."<br />
Moroni 10:32<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Because of Him</b></div>
<div align="center">
<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="270" id="flashObj" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=3453545792001&linkBaseURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lds.org%2Fyouth%2Fvideo%2Fbecause-of-him%3Flang%3Deng&playerID=624969307001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAkVf45-E~,pmvsVwZF3OxbkM0RYkqyMQXbVW5FlKA7&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="videoId=3453545792001&linkBaseURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lds.org%2Fyouth%2Fvideo%2Fbecause-of-him%3Flang%3Deng&playerID=624969307001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAkVf45-E~,pmvsVwZF3OxbkM0RYkqyMQXbVW5FlKA7&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="480" height="270" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" swLiveConnect="true" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object></div>
<br />
I love teaching the message of the restoration. It is true, and it fills even the most desolate heart with hope. As covenant Israel, we are the message. I felt an even deeper conviction of this when we stood outside an apartment and taught a man who we had met in passing. The power of the message sprang forth from our mouths and our hearts, and the Holy Ghost carried it into his own heart. As we stood there out in the open, listening to him and preaching repentance, we could see the light begin to grow in his eyes. I was overwhelmed with gratitude. Once again, the spirit bore witness to me of the truthfulness of these things. We then boldly declared that we are servants of God, called by a prophet to preach our unique message to the world. He understood what we were saying, and asked a few questions here and there, signifying the hunger he has for knowledge. We will continue to teach him, as he has agreed to meet with us.<br />
<br />
I never could have guessed that I would be capable of feeling such profound love for these people. It is a feeling I've never felt before. One that has changed my life, and has impacted me for eternity. I will forever be a servant of the Lord, Jesus Christ. My life is his.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Sister RecordJason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-75841095561666029502016-02-01T14:17:00.000-08:002016-02-01T14:17:00.765-08:00Where's the DumpsterArea: Leon Valley/9th Ward<br />Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott <br /><br />Dear family and friends, <br /><br />The weather here has been beautiful! The air is crisp and clear (though full of cedar, aka: allergens...) and the temperature has been fairly warm. Earlier this week on one of those bright, oddly spring-like days, we were in an apartment complex in which nobody was outside. After stopping by someone we had planned, we saw that there was a bag full of icky trash sitting outside someone's door. The clever idea to take their trash and leave a pass along card in its place popped into my head. It's fun to do spontaneous acts of service for people. The only problem was that as we entered the parking lot to find a place to dispose of the trash, we could not find a dumpster anywhere. We walked up and down and around that complex for a good 15 minutes. There was literally no dumpster to be seen. I have come to know that everything happens for a reason. I joined Sister Scott in laughing at our misfortune, but not without a suggestion that there is likely someone watching us from their window who will be touched by our efforts and seek to learn more about our church. They will open their door to the next missionaries they see. Or even simply feel the love of God and have a desire to be better. <br /><br />After searching to no avail, we finally decided to knock on a strangers door and ask where the nearest dumpster was. When a bulky, grumpy looking man opened the door we asked, "We have a really strange question to ask you. Where is the nearest dumpster?" He softened and gave us directions. We tried to slip a pass along card in too, but he wasn't interested. Even with the instructions he gave us we still couldn't find it. Luckily, another man pulled up in a work van. He got out of his car, and we asked him. He was kind and pointed directly behind us where there was a trash compactor with stairs leading up to where we're supposed to put the trash. I've never even seen one of those in my life! We thanked him, gave him a pass along card, and FINALLY disposed of the trash. <br /><br />Here is another funny experience we had: It was dark outside and we were trying to look for a house number. We couldn't find any house numbers on the two houses we were looking at. I said that I didn't know what to do. To which Sister Scott responded, "Well, we can cry, sit on the ground, and eat dirt." We chuckled. Then I added, "Or we could stand here and creepily stare at their house." Which was exactly what we were doing at the foot of their driveway. Suddenly the garage door opened and startled us both. We started walking quickly back to the car to avoid getting caught. We couldn't help but giggle as we walked. A Hispanic woman came outside and rushed purposefully across her lawn. We decided to still say hello and give her a card. She didn't speak any English though, and the only Spanish we know is what Sister Scott knows. Which is just enough to introduce ourselves and give her a card. This woman was very friendly and animated. Out of no where a red car pulled up and she got in and left, shouting to us "I love you mama!" Of course we were delighted to have briefly met her in such an awkward situation, and we had a good laugh about it in the car. <br /><br />Enjoy the journey, my friends. Everything happens for a reason and when circumstances go different then planned, just know that someone is always watching and it is our choice as to how we respond. We might as well choose to respond with love and occasional humor. <br /><br />I love the gospel, and I love to teach repentance and baptize converts. For that is who I am and why I am here. I was born to assist the Lord in his great work, and I am grateful for every minute of it. I know that the joy will only continue to grow when I move into the next phase of life. <br /><br />{M} is still doing very well. She is progressing and has a wonderful understanding and comprehension of what we teach her. <br /><br />Also, do you remember {A}? The investigator that Sister Risenmay and I met outside the church who longed to be a member? I just received news that she will be getting baptized this Saturday! I love hearing that those I took part in teaching are still doing well and progressing. <br /><br />I love you all. Make it a great week! <br /><br />Sincerely,<br />Sister RecordJason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-56367588683862521382016-02-01T14:12:00.003-08:002016-02-01T14:12:23.655-08:00Be BraveArea: Leon Valley/9th Ward<br />Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott<br /><br />My dearest family and friends,<br /><br />God is so good.<br /><br />"...In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established."<br />2 Corinthians 13:1<br /><br />"And in the mouth of three witnesses shall these things be established; and the testimony of three, and this work, in the which shall be shown forth the power of God and also his word, of which the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost bear record"<br />Ether 5:4<br /><br />We have been teaching an incredible woman named {M}. She is not from here, but came to visit her daughter. Upon arriving, she decided that she would stay for good. On her trip here, however, she lost her beloved bible on the train. The bible she had had for years, that was all marked up and pages curled from reading it in the bathtub. {M} is in her 60s and is a strong-willed, occasionally sassy baptist. She was online a couple weeks ago and saw that she could order a free bible. Of course she did, with the new found lack of God's word in her possession. That's where we come in. We received a media referral on our phone and quickly went to deliver this bible to {M}. She was delighted to meet us, and slightly surprised at the appearance of Mormon missionaries. She walked us over to the nearby park and talked to us for a good 40 minutes on the park bench. She loves to tell her life stories. The only thing we were able to get in is a copy of a Book of Mormon and an invitation for her to read it. She replied that she had read it years ago and never found interest in it, but that she was willing to try again. We asked her to read the introduction and then set up a return appointment.<br /><br />A few days later we gave her a call. She excitedly told us that she had been reading! She went on to say that she had no idea the Book of Mormon was about the native Americans, and various other details that caught her attention. She even kept reading beyond the introduction and into 1 Nephi. When we went back to teach her the restoration she was eager to learn and had her notebook out ready to take notes on everything we said. <br /><br />We asked her more about her Book of Mormon reading and she told us another story. She has been through a lot in her life. Including some serious health problems that brought her close to death a couple times. She told us that any time she went through a hard time in her life she would receive some sort of message from God in the scriptures, or from any random thing and the message always came in three. Meaning when it was something important it would be repeated three times. After reading the introduction, {M} came to the Testimony of the Three Witnesses, and was struck by the meaning that has had for her in her life. She looked up as though speaking to Heaven and told God, "Okay, you got me." She believes all of it.<br /><br />Because of that experience she has been soaking up everything we teach her. She came to church this past Sunday for the first time and loved it! There is a sister in the ward who is perfect fellowship for her. When we asked this dear sister to come with us on Saturday and to give {M} a ride to church she humbly responded that this request was an answer to her prayers. Earlier that day she felt sad that she didn't have anyone to serve and prayed in the parking lot for an opportunity to serve. That same day, we felt prompted to ask her to fellowship {M}. And she has so kindly taken her under her wing. I am grateful for the meek and humble example of this member, and hope that I will always respond to opportunities in such a way.<br /><br />The nearer I come to the end of my mission, the more I reflect on just how much I love my mission. It is something that has forever changed me. A legacy that will live on throughout eternity. One that will be instilled into the hearts of my posterity and inspire them to also serve the Lord. There is a song by Hilary Weeks called "Brave". I have changed some of the words in it to describe exactly how I feel about my life and my mission. I am grateful for my wonderful mother for instilling this message into my heart by the way she lives. <br />
<br />There were moments when I felt it and I knew,<br />Something amazing was happening within my soul,<br />And nothing could hold back what was inside me.<br /><br />I let it move me, and lead my heart,<br />I chose not to be afraid to let myself believe in who I am,<br />I have become brave.<br /><br />I am brave!<br />I let it come through and define me,<br />I was meant to be brave.<br /><br />Each day I got my shoes, grabbed my courage, opened the door<br />And saw myself in a way I'd never seen before, and<br />Heaven was there beside me.<br /><br />In the moments when the walls seemed way too high,<br />I trusted my instincts, prayed and started to climb,<br />I remembered, I have always been brave.<br /><br />I am brave!<br />I let it come through and define me,<br />I was meant to be brave...<br /><br />When I thought I couldn't<br />I was strong enough though I had fallen,<br />I remembered the words of my mother,<br />And was bold enough to stand and be... Brave.<br /><br />There are moments when I will feel it and know,<br />Something amazing is yet to happen within my soul,<br />And nothing can hold back what's inside me.<br /><br /><br />I love you all! And look forward to reuniting with you soon. But for now, Sister Scott and I have work to do. <br /><br />Love, your sister missionary,<br />Sister Record<br />Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-9699540658850118322016-01-04T13:23:00.000-08:002016-01-04T13:23:56.732-08:00So Great a Cause!Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward<br />
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott<br />
<br />
Dear family and friends,<br />
<br />
What does it mean to live the gospel? To answer that question allow me to pose another question. What is the gospel? We could rack our minds for the perfect definition of <a href="https://www.mormon.org/beliefs/jesus-christ" target="_blank">the gospel of Jesus Christ</a> and make it flowery and poetic. But the gospel is very simple. So simple that a young child could comprehend it. It is this: Faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end.<br />
<br />
This doctrine is stated again and again in the scriptures. <br />
<br />
"...I know that if ye shall follow the Son, with full purpose of heart, acting no hypocrisy and no deception before God, but with real intent, repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father that ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ, by baptism--yea, by following your Lord and your Savior down into the water, according to his word, behold, then shall ye receive the Holy Ghost; yea, then cometh the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost; and then can ye speak with the tongue of angels, and shout praises unto the Holy One of Israel.<br />
"...He that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved."<br />
(2 Nephi 31:13, 15)<br />
<br />
To endure to the end means to continually exercise faith in Jesus Christ, repent, renew our covenants, and choose to receive the Holy Ghost. This has become very real to me this past week. Especially the past couple days. To live the gospel means to endure to the end. As I have been studying and learning this principle for myself, it was a glorious experience to partake of the sacrament yesterday. The renewal I felt was beyond description. I now know what it means to live the gospel. And I love it.<br />
<br />
Our purpose as missionaries is to preach the gospel! Which is what has been stated above. While we were sitting outside the pharmacy a couple days ago waiting for a pharmacist to show up, a woman approached and was also waiting. We were updating some digital records at the time, but I could sense that she was curious about who we were. I was distinctly aware that she was watching us. I turned to her and began a casual conversation. I simply asked if she had had a happy new year. She smiled and said that she did. I told her we did as well and explained that we were on church missions. I went on to explain that on a mission we have the opportunity to serve people everyday and teach about Jesus Christ. She seemed sincerely touched and said, "Oh, that is very good!". I asked her if she had a faith in Christ. She replied that she did and that she was raised with a faith in him. That eventually led to us inviting her to come to church. We had a wonderful conversation with her and ended up writing the address to the church down and giving it to her. For that brief moment in the store, we were able to preach the gospel to someone "by the way". Meaning, wherever we're at and whatever people come into our path. It was so simple. There are times when it might not be appropriate to approach someone and begin teaching them the entire first lesson, but we can be friendly, lift them where they are, and invite them to come unto Christ. Such was this experience.<br />
<br />
Last Monday we met a less active member who is going through a lot. We were without a car for the time being, so we walked. We stopped by several people but none were home. Finally we got to {A}'s home. She is an older woman who has a lot on her plate right now. Shortly after we had arrived she received a phone call of sad news from her sister, who's health is failing. She hung up the phone and began to cry. We were there to comfort her. We bore our testimonies of <a href="https://www.mormon.org/beliefs/book-of-mormon" target="_blank">the Book of Mormon</a>, and the solace it brings to the storms of life. We gently discussed that more important than temporal welfare is spiritual welfare. She agreed. We boldly invited her to come back to the fold of God and attend church with us the following Sunday. Again, she agreed. It was touching to see the light grow in her eyes as the fire of the restoration burned deep in our own. It is my hope that others will always be able to warm theirs hands by my bonfire. To help illustrate the message of the Book of Mormon, we shared a video of the testimony of a special witness of Jesus Christ. It is stirring to hear this apostle, Jeffery R. Holland testify of the living reality of this book. Which is indeed the very word of God. The Book of Mormon is true and is the tool by which God is gathering his people. I have been gathered and will never turn back. Now it is my duty to assist in gathering others.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Testimony from an Apostle of Jesus Christ</h2>
<div align="center">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SHY-Y9yraR8" width="560"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
May we remember the words of the prophet Joseph Smith who said,<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
"shall we not go on in so great a cause? Go forward and not backward. Courage brethren [and sisters]; and on, on to victory! Let your hearts rejoice and be exceedingly glad... For the prisoners shall go free." (D&C 128:22)</div>
<br />
I am ready to preach the gospel!<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Sister Record<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VbjbFNGAoCY/VorYbsi2GjI/AAAAAAAADgs/HLE5R0UlQt8/s1600/20160104-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VbjbFNGAoCY/VorYbsi2GjI/AAAAAAAADgs/HLE5R0UlQt8/s320/20160104-5.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This was a very cold night. I think the chill is beginning to set in here in Texas. :)</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fo9etZPATEo/VorYbY2Sx2I/AAAAAAAADgo/TJ_PP-dxezI/s1600/20160104-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fo9etZPATEo/VorYbY2Sx2I/AAAAAAAADgo/TJ_PP-dxezI/s640/20160104-2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I feel so blessed to have been invited to attend MLC. It was incredible to discuss our vision as a mission. Even though I don't have the same kind of stewardship that I did before, it was neat to see how everything still applies.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A9jkdl6m5Hg/VorYbfTzgMI/AAAAAAAADg0/wOC_IrPxawU/s1600/20160104-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A9jkdl6m5Hg/VorYbfTzgMI/AAAAAAAADg0/wOC_IrPxawU/s320/20160104-3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The "quadpanionship". Previous south zone leadership. Let me tell you, this was a powerful team! Unbelievable miracles happened when we all were together. Interestingly enough, all four of us were unassigned. I think President Slaughter is trying to teach us something important... (Left to right: Elder MacDonald, Elder Evans, Sister Risenmay, Sister Record)</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kckSs2mUz9Y/VorYblEXlkI/AAAAAAAADgw/83tcu3ek-M0/s1600/20160104-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kckSs2mUz9Y/VorYblEXlkI/AAAAAAAADgw/83tcu3ek-M0/s320/20160104-4.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Pito and I</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-siDwZzLsYfE/VorYbQQICiI/AAAAAAAADgk/0_Aub6tSpI0/s1600/20160104-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-siDwZzLsYfE/VorYbQQICiI/AAAAAAAADgk/0_Aub6tSpI0/s320/20160104-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Sister's at MLC! Sister Risenmay and I got to be companions again. :)</i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-27998240913972606222015-12-28T13:11:00.001-08:002015-12-28T13:11:39.378-08:00Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward<br />
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott<br />
<br />
I know we passed Christmas already, and the new year is not quite here, but close enough. At the very beginning of the year, President Slaughter told us what his vision for us was.<br /><br />President Slaughters vision for 2015:<br /> 1. Become fully consecrated<br /> 2. Bury your weapons of rebellion<br /> 3. Develop a pure heart.<br /><br />In December of 2014 I had been trying to articulate what my goals for the year would be. Seeing as the entire year of 2015 would be spent on my mission, I wanted this to be special. I tried and tried to come up with something good, but it always ended up being too complicated. Then President Slaughter presented this to us. I threw out all of my ideas and plans, and simply adopted his vision as my own. It has been in the forefront of my mind ever since.<br /><br />And now 2015 is coming to a close. With the power of the spirit and a clear conscience before God, I declare to you that I have become fully consecrated, I have buried my weapons of rebellion, and I have developed a pure heart. God has shaped and molded me. I thought I was a disciple of Jesus Christ before, but I had no clue what it really meant. I now know what it means and I can testify that "I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life." (3 Nephi 5:13)<br /><br />Preach My Gospel states, "Goals reflect the desires of our hearts and our vision of what we can accomplish. Through goals and plans our hopes are transformed into action. Goal setting and planning are acts of faith."<br /><br />"The ultimate measure of success is not in achieving goals alone but in the service you render and the progress of others". (PMG ch 8, pg 146)<br /><br />Goals should be used to focus outward and not inward. As we are focused on serving others, we find much more meaning to life and become more like our Savior. Which should be the ultimate goal.<br /><br />I love God. It is him whom I serve. I will gladly give all that I have and am to build up his kingdom.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br />Sister Record<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7ghGFTEtJU/VoGiqbxYAzI/AAAAAAAADfE/VT6n47z5TnI/s1600/20151228-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7ghGFTEtJU/VoGiqbxYAzI/AAAAAAAADfE/VT6n47z5TnI/s320/20151228-3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>One week felt like way too long. We had a glorious reunion. The<br />
best Christmas present I could ever imagine was to see Sister Risenmay<br />
again.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JHAcPhXPfZE/VoGir8muwfI/AAAAAAAADfY/505a2n0VAa4/s1600/20151228-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JHAcPhXPfZE/VoGir8muwfI/AAAAAAAADfY/505a2n0VAa4/s320/20151228-4.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Scott and I in front of the Christmas tree. We had an amazing Christmas!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEXQ5-tQy74/VoGiqOJcYqI/AAAAAAAADfU/18beFH58Li0/s1600/20151228-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEXQ5-tQy74/VoGiqOJcYqI/AAAAAAAADfU/18beFH58Li0/s320/20151228-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Christmas Eve at the mission home.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ptyq5tyry9Y/VoGisfsFY7I/AAAAAAAADfc/xq87omkwShM/s1600/20151228-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ptyq5tyry9Y/VoGisfsFY7I/AAAAAAAADfc/xq87omkwShM/s320/20151228-5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Scott opening one of her Christmas packages. We both got one of those scarf things from a kind member. We weren't sure how to wear it at first... It turns out, it's not a scarf it's a shawl. Ha ha!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ziutFQrxtzk/VoGiveAU6WI/AAAAAAAADfo/AkK1WjBmu3A/s1600/20151228-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ziutFQrxtzk/VoGiveAU6WI/AAAAAAAADfo/AkK1WjBmu3A/s640/20151228-6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The San Antonio missionary conference with Elder Piño. He's sitting<br />
next to President Slaughter. I'm standing behind and between President<br />
Slaughter and Elder Piño.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TyfkY506PSk/VoGiq6rF05I/AAAAAAAADfg/Zq_q_lsly8c/s1600/20151228-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TyfkY506PSk/VoGiq6rF05I/AAAAAAAADfg/Zq_q_lsly8c/s320/20151228-2.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>We had a wonderful discussion on the different names of Christ, the<br />
doctrine of judgment, the noble and great ones, and the meaning of<br />
Christmas. I love President and Sister Slaughter. They are so<br />
inspired! </i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-76273663996094954222015-12-22T13:03:00.002-08:002015-12-22T13:03:44.214-08:00Final Transfer!Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward<br />
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott<br />
<br />
My dear family and friends,<br />
<br />I am officially in my final transfer. I feel very lucky that this transfer is a unique 7 week transfer since the last one was shortened. I have been moved to the Leon Valley and 9th wards in the west zone. Which is not too far from the south zone where I previously served. In fact, when I was with Sister Powell, we were over the sisters in this area. I got to go on an exchange with Sister Jenkins here and saw some wonderful miracles. This transfer I have been released as a sister training leader. President Slaughter is calling it operation "spread the music". I have been asked to spread the music. To help those I'm with catch the vision. I don't feel any different than I did as a sister training leader, I still feel the same. Just like when I was first called as a sister training leader I didn't feel any different than I did the day before. I've learned that there is no such thing as "ranks" in the church. I am grateful for the different opportunities the Lord gives us to serve in different ways. I am excited to learn from my sister training leaders this transfer. I am preparing for exchanges with them and will ask them all the questions I can think of. Because I know that they are pondering and praying about how they should reach out to us. They are receiving revelation on our behalf, and I'm eager to see what is in store. It is a tender mercy to have Sister Pito, my previous companion, as one of our sister training leaders. That was no accident. The Lord knows exactly what he is doing. <br /><br />It was very hard to say goodbye to Sister Risenmay and Valley Hi/Heritage, but the Lord prepared me for it in ways I would never have expected. He comforted me, and gave me the eyes to see when I've needed it most. He has heard my prayers. <br /><br />As you know, In Valley Hi we were teaching {H}. They're still teaching her, and she is preparing to be baptized very soon. I might have mentioned a while back that one night Sister Risenmay and I stopped by and she had her great-nieces and nephew over. These kids were currently living with their grandmother, {H}'s sister. But that wasn't in our area. The kids have no religious background or upbringing, so {H} kindly had them listen to everything we said. And they loved us! {H} told her sister about the experience and wanted her to also meet with the missionaries. {H} has been trying to get her sister to go to the LDS church for a long time. A few weeks after that visit, the kids wanted us to come back. We didn't live in their area, so we tried sending them off as a referral, but it never really worked out. <br /><br />Well, now I have been transferred to this area, and I realized on Friday that {H}'s sister and family live in the Leon Valley area! We went and visited them on Saturday. Come to find out, Barbara (her sister) told {H} that she didn't want to meet with any other missionaries other than the ones that had touched her grandchildren. She wanted {H}'s missionaries (Sister Risenmay and I). And the Lord sent me here for my final transfer... When the kids saw me, they were ecstatic and gave me a hug. We will begin teaching her shortly. What a miracle! I know that I have been sent here for many reasons. I have a testimony that the Lords work moves forward, unhindered by mortal limitations. We have taught several families in the last few days. Apparently the work was moving slowly before. But I see no evidence of that now. We have been finding people everywhere, around every corner. I feel very blessed to work with the ward members here as well. It's strange to know that I'll only be here for one transfer. I have never been in an area for only one transfer so I feel a sense of urgency to get things moving. And let me tell you, they are moving. Miracles are happening in many forms, and will continue to. <br /><br />I am so grateful for all that I've learned. I know that the Lord loves me. But more importantly I know that he trusts me. As he does all who are true followers of his son Jesus Christ. <br /><br />"For many are called, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:14) <br /><br />This is my deep and abiding testimony. <br /><br />I am ready to sprint to the finish line now, and for eternity. All in! <br /><br />Love,<br />Sister Record<br />
<br />
<h2>
Pictures</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--REhwaOhKAw/Vnm3VRjlqmI/AAAAAAAADdw/HiUFxu38t1I/s1600/20151221-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--REhwaOhKAw/Vnm3VRjlqmI/AAAAAAAADdw/HiUFxu38t1I/s320/20151221-1.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is one of the cutest dogs I've met on my mission. He wasn't<br />
annoying... most are. He randomly lifted up his paws and held them on<br />
my hand for the longest time.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qfgIncLjM1A/Vnm3VruWq6I/AAAAAAAADeA/ggLmSCrdAoU/s1600/20151221-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qfgIncLjM1A/Vnm3VruWq6I/AAAAAAAADeA/ggLmSCrdAoU/s320/20151221-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Ayala family. Brother Ayala is one of our ward mission leaders,<br />
and we absolutely love them!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0BTZLNm_4dc/Vnm3VNd878I/AAAAAAAADd0/MrnFC1sHUIw/s1600/20151221-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0BTZLNm_4dc/Vnm3VNd878I/AAAAAAAADd0/MrnFC1sHUIw/s320/20151221-3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CAZCu-UzI7Q/Vnm3WGox4MI/AAAAAAAADeQ/SP5pHNc-vpQ/s1600/20151221-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CAZCu-UzI7Q/Vnm3WGox4MI/AAAAAAAADeQ/SP5pHNc-vpQ/s320/20151221-4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This was one of the hardest goodbyes. We both wanted to be<br />
companions for one more transfer, but we understand that the Lord<br />
knows best and has another wise plan in mind.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DxWlUAPRM_4/Vnm3WZUmUQI/AAAAAAAADeM/yDgW2bwyeYM/s1600/20151221-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DxWlUAPRM_4/Vnm3WZUmUQI/AAAAAAAADeM/yDgW2bwyeYM/s320/20151221-5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Fullam, Sister Risenmay and I. We were a trio for three days<br />
after Sister Fullam sent Sister Bills home.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pc1U2f6VEw8/Vnm3Wd1wOAI/AAAAAAAADeI/DptCo6NetaU/s1600/20151221-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pc1U2f6VEw8/Vnm3Wd1wOAI/AAAAAAAADeI/DptCo6NetaU/s320/20151221-6.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is my new companion. Sister Nicholette Scott. She has been serving for 8 months, and is from Las Vegas, Nevada.</i></div>
<br />
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998929.4241219 -98.493628199999989 29.4241219 -98.493628199999989tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-32248266060855136512015-12-22T12:53:00.002-08:002015-12-22T12:54:03.822-08:00Miracle StreetArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay<br />
<br />
Dearest family and friends,<br />
<br />
I know I say his every week, but this week has been spiritually edifying and full of miracles! We had another lesson with the {C} family in which we showed "A Savior is Born" and taught the plan of salvation. We decided to go over it again with Brother {C} present because he was on call the last time. It went incredibly well! The spirit was so strong in that room as the message of Gods plan for them rang true to their hearts. Throughout the lesson, we mentioned the need for baptism by proper authority. As we taught them about inheriting the Celestial kingdom we explained that this is where our families can live together forever with God. I think everyone's heart was pounding as we extended the baptismal invitation. It seemed as though eternity stood still as the words, "Will you be baptized as a family?" left the mouth a representative of Jesus Christ. I felt a chill in my bones at the thought that these words were coming out of my mouth, but was a unified invitation from both my companion and I. We turned to Brother {C}, as the patriarch of the home, for the answer. He turned to his wife, who's eyes welled up with tears. He took her hand and quietly asked, "What do you think?" There was a moment of powerful silence. Sister {C} whispered, "I want to be forever... We have to be forever." She cried even more. He lovingly put his hand on her cheek. Then they hugged. That was perhaps one of the most tender moments on my mission. As I reflect on this moment, I can feel all the same emotions that we did when we were there. He turned back to us and nodded his head. He said yes, and that he wanted this for his family.<br />
<br />
I was also touched by the tenderness my companion showed towards them. She choked up as she described the love she has for her family, and how we have come here on our missions to help other families become eternal. Amen! I love Sister Risenmay dearly. <br />
<br />
They came to church the very next day and were welcomed by the ward. They have already changed so much since we first met them. I am eternally grateful for the ward members reaching out to them. Investigators and less active members are often very fragile when they first start coming to church, so it is essential that they are properly cared for. The ward is doing a wonderful job at taking them under their wing.<br />
<br />
We had the privilege of hearing from one of the Lords anointed, Elder Rafael E. Pino. He's of the quorum of the seventy and is one of Christ's special witnesses. I will never be same. He did a conference for the missionaries here in San Antonio and on the border, then another one for those in Austin. We also had a special leadership conference for the MLC to attend. It was a delight! He does speak English, but he chose to speak Spanish the entire time and have one of the elders interpret for him. In the San Antonio mission conference I was deeply impressed by the interpreting. Elder Piño was so patient and masterful at teaching us and his interpreter. The spirit taught me much as I watched the two of them. Elder Piño told us in English, "He is my voice. Direct your comments and questions to me." He told his interpreter to stand by him side by side, and say everything he says. He repeated the phrase "he is my voice" several times throughout.<br />
<br />
Likewise, I am the voice of Christ. As are all who have entered into the covenant of baptism. We are not perfect at mimicking him. In fact, sometimes we translate wrong. But as we align ourselves with him, watch him carefully, and learn his ways, we become more and more like him. He can then trust us to really be his voice. Let's hope that we are living to the light we've been given so as not to misuse the opportunity to be the voice of Christ. <br />
<br />
He says, "I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.<br />
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:"<br />
(John 10:14, 27)<br />
<br />
Do we know who our shepherd is? Do we truly follow him? Or do we just say that we follow him. What is a true follower of Christ? The answer is simple. Those who are are filled with charity, the pure love of Christ.<br />
<br />
"And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.<br />
"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for <b>charity never faileth</b>. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail--<br />
"But charity is the pure love of Christ, and <b>it endureth forever</b>; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.<br />
"...pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are <i><b>true followers</b></i> of his Son, Jesus Christ..."<br />
(Moroni 7:45-48, emphasis added)<br />
<br />
I know for myself that charity never fails. I have seen that again and again. It has turned stone hearts into soft clay. It has dispelled contention, and brought seemingly opposite personalities together in love and unity. Not only that, but it changes lives. I have felt him "fill me with his love, even unto the consuming of my flesh." (2 Nephi 4:21). May I say again with all of my heart, I am, because of him! He is my shepherd and I will heed his voice as well as be his voice for all to come and see.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Sister RecordJason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-26308565668752799642015-12-08T13:25:00.002-08:002015-12-08T13:25:59.861-08:00A Savior is BornArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay<br />
<br />
It has been a wonderful week! Hearts are soft this Christmas season and lives are touched like no other time of year. Christmas time is the best time to be a missionary! It's almost as though the lights and the excitement ignite in each person a desire to love God and partake of His light.<br />
<br />
Last Wednesday our district leader inspired us with this profound insight. (Paraphrasing) 'Right now, there is a Father who is on his knees begging for guidance for his family. There is a mother in tears, pleading with God for her and her children to find refuge.' We are the Lords servants, sent to find them. We are "like unto angels of God" with a divine commission. May we never forget the greatness of our call! As full times missionaries, but more importantly, as members of Christ's church and as covenant Israel, we were born to gather. That day I had an exchange with Sister Fullam. I felt in my heart that we were going to find the searching Father that very day. In the car, I looked at Sister Fullam and said, "We are going to find that Father or Mother today". The spirit bore witness to our hearts of our purpose.<br />
<br />
While we were stopping by some people, none of them were home. We began walking back to our car, but not without having our eyes, ears and hearts open to anyone else we could talk to before leaving. Across the street we saw a somewhat rough looking man walking to the bus stop. The street was a very wide street and usually bustling with traffic. This time there were no cars and we were able to cross with ease. We approached him and began talking about Christ in this Christmas season. We found out that he was going through a really hard time, and seemed to be barely hanging on, only because of his faith in Jesus Christ. We showed him "A Savior is Born" and watched as the spirit worked in him. Tears filled his eyes. He knew immediately that we were sent from God. We testified to him that God knows his circumstances and that we represent the Savior in bringing this glad message. He readily accepted a Book of Mormon and agreed to read it. He was deeply touched and could hardly contain his emotions as we offered a prayer for him. Sister Fullam and I walked away in awe of what the Lord had just done for this man. We don't know for sure if he's a Father, but I wouldn't be surprised if he was. His faith was lifted, and we hope to begin teaching him soon. <br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b>A Savior is Born</b></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="270" id="flashObj" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=4646125520001&linkBaseURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lds.org%2Fyouth%2Fvideo%2Fa-savior-is-born%3Flang%3Deng&playerID=901569084001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAA0ZXbIXk~,CUDb-EhKU-08yzcLk4G18BkZR0vh0I19&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="videoId=4646125520001&linkBaseURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lds.org%2Fyouth%2Fvideo%2Fa-savior-is-born%3Flang%3Deng&playerID=901569084001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAA0ZXbIXk~,CUDb-EhKU-08yzcLk4G18BkZR0vh0I19&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="480" height="270" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" swLiveConnect="true" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object></div>
<br />
Last week I mentioned the family of 6 that we met. The {C} family came to church yesterday! When we first met them, Brother {C} offered a beautiful prayer, pleading for understanding and ability to guide his family in this new path. We were not expecting them to come to church, so when we saw them we could barely contain our excitement. It was a miracle! Those kids have almost no religious background. So coming to church is completely new to them. We were so very grateful for the members who went out of their way to say hello and help them feel welcome. That is so very vital. I hope no one ever lets somebody go unnoticed. It is a tragedy when someone who's heart is already fragile leaves because no one would lend a hand of love. <br />
<br />
We had a lesson with them after church about the Plan of Salvation. We look forward to the day they are baptized and become some of the best kingdom builders! <br />
<br />
{H} is doing fantastic. The only thing keeping her from being baptized is that her family isn't in town until January. She is going to be baptized though. No doubt about that. {A} and {T} are doing well. We lost contact with them for almost two weeks, but finally taught them again. {A} is as excited as ever and is still reading the Book of Mormon.<br />
<br />
I am grateful for the knowledge we have of the Savior. He is our Redeemer. He was born in Bethlehem and was laid in an animals feeding trough. Also known as a manger. He is Alpha and Omega. He lives. Because he lives, I can sing the song of redeeming love.<br />
<br />
I love you all!<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Sister Record<br />
<br />
All in!<br />
<br />
<h2>
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qvEHBosXD_c/VmdKjxhzRxI/AAAAAAAADcs/kt12uBOAOk8/s1600/20151207-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qvEHBosXD_c/VmdKjxhzRxI/AAAAAAAADcs/kt12uBOAOk8/s320/20151207-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-he8acJxRkU4/VmdKoKh75yI/AAAAAAAADc4/mmw9gzbhgBY/s1600/20151207-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-he8acJxRkU4/VmdKoKh75yI/AAAAAAAADc4/mmw9gzbhgBY/s320/20151207-3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDToLMb2jiU/VmdKkTFG6UI/AAAAAAAADcw/uQgGa7vEPnc/s1600/20151207-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDToLMb2jiU/VmdKkTFG6UI/AAAAAAAADcw/uQgGa7vEPnc/s320/20151207-4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-14775923957360044642015-11-30T12:42:00.000-08:002015-11-30T12:42:42.708-08:00No Rotten LemonsArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay<br /><br />My dear family and friends,<br /><br />What happens when you squeeze an orange? Orange juice comes out. What happens when you squeeze a lemon? Lemon juice comes out. What if the fruit is rotten? Then very stinky juice will likely be squeezed out. In our most recent transfer meeting, President Slaughter counseled us that often times the Lord puts a bit of pressure on us. Just enough to try our faith, and prove our obedience. "And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them" (Abraham 3:25) He then asked a stirring question. When the pressure hits, what comes out? When we have trials, when the Lord squeezes us a little, what comes out is what's inside. Let's hope we aren't rotten fruit. The words of our President proved to be inspired as we have had a very trying couple of weeks. This week in particular.<br /><br />If there is one thing I've learned on my mission, it is the value of pleading for spiritual gifts such as charity, patience, faith, etc... I think that a common view among people is to avoid praying for patience or humility. I've heard people say many times, "Oh don't pray for patience, because the Lord will give it to you." Of course he will! He is the giver good gifts. Why would we not want to plead for the very attributes that allow us to become more Christlike. The scriptures teach us that we should seek correction. Seek light and truth. Hunger and thirst after righteousness. And ask, "What lack I yet?" So I do with a love for God and a desire to become like his son.<br /><br />The week before last, I was deeply inspired to not just pray for, but plead for greater patience, love, and humility. I felt a total submissiveness to the will of the Lord and a pure desire to grow. A couple days later I got quite sick. For almost an entire week I have been sicker than I ever have my entire mission. This past week we proselyted for a total of about an hour, besides Saturday. Saturday we were able to be out all day. This morning as Sister Risenmay and I reflected on the experience we have had we were reminded of a scripture in Mosiah 24:15 "...the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord." This scripture speaks the exact words of my heart. I will never cease pleading for gifts of the spirit and I will always strive to "submit cheerfully to all the will of the Lord".<br /><br />Saturday was miraculous. We taught several lessons, and found 7 new investigators all in one day, which is more than we've had in one week in a long time.<br /><br />Yesterday was the most interesting day. Sister Slaughter instructed me to go the the Urgent Care that morning, therefore missing our first ward. We had planned to do a musical number but had to text our pianist and postpone it. I probably couldn't have sang well anyways. After receiving the diagnosis, I was given some medication. We were able to make it to our second ward but I barely made it through. Let's just say that I couldn't stand for more than 10 minutes. We were both supposed to give the lesson in third hour, but we were afraid that I would faint... So Sister Risenmay gave the entire lesson. I learned a lot about companion unity. Even though she was the only one speaking, we were one. Her words were mine and it was the message the Lord wanted us to share. That evening I received a powerful priesthood blessing from our district leader and his companion. The spirit filled the room as they laid their hands on my head. As he gave the blessing I knew what was coming. For a moment I asked myself, do I really have the faith for that to happen? I told the lord that I did. These words followed. "In the name of Jesus Christ, we command you to be healed." I couldn't hold back the tears as the warmth of the spirit enveloped my heart. Immediately I had strength to stand. The illness left. I could breath completely normal and I was able to get up and move. I have an utmost surety that the priesthood is the power of God. It heals. I am grateful for how the Lord provided for us in so many ways. At the Urgent Care we were able to talk to 4 people, mostly workers. At the pharmacy we talked to the man standing in line behind us. We shared the gospel with them. This week we found more new investigators then we have in a long time, part of which was a family of 6. Even though we were probably out for a total of 12 hours. Most of those hours were on Saturday. We had enough miles on our car to get around without having to use our bikes. God is so good! We have never grown so much as a companionship than we have this week. And now, we made it over the mountain. <br /><br />When the pressure is on, what comes out? For us, it was a strengthening of faith, hope, and devotion to the Lords work. I have never loved the Lords work more. The fire is burning in our hearts. Our ability to stay focused was increased and we did serve with all our hearts. I can assure you that I will never stop pleading with God for patience, humility, charity, etc. "Come what may, and love it". Heavenly Father knows what he's doing and I trust him. He will not give us anything more than we can bear as we rely on the Savior Jesus Christ. This is my testimony.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br />Sister Record<br />
<br />
<h2>
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljZaSzr_zl0/Vlyd0xqFTAI/AAAAAAAADbI/XSFBHgEwdzk/s1600/20151130-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljZaSzr_zl0/Vlyd0xqFTAI/AAAAAAAADbI/XSFBHgEwdzk/s320/20151130-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>After dinner with the Thuesons. They are fantastic!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Th1Xbgo2LZs/Vlyd09MWFAI/AAAAAAAADbE/6TbkkpImjIw/s1600/20151130-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Th1Xbgo2LZs/Vlyd09MWFAI/AAAAAAAADbE/6TbkkpImjIw/s320/20151130-3.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>A beautiful Thanksgiving dinner layout at a part member families<br />
home. Yes, we had two Thanksgiving dinners. I was stuffed after the<br />
first one, and we had about an hour between that one and our next one.<br />
Luckily my stomach expanded to fit more the second time around.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F8CPeFaVARE/Vlyd0y7xU5I/AAAAAAAADbc/r5RYzkBxxGw/s1600/20151130-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F8CPeFaVARE/Vlyd0y7xU5I/AAAAAAAADbc/r5RYzkBxxGw/s320/20151130-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We had great fun visiting with Cathy on Thanksgiving day. We were<br />
given a lot of left over food, so we made a plate and shared some with<br />
her.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--m1XuPvVsIg/Vlyd1v3l2UI/AAAAAAAADbU/1C7EftLDHeA/s1600/20151130-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--m1XuPvVsIg/Vlyd1v3l2UI/AAAAAAAADbU/1C7EftLDHeA/s320/20151130-4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>It's starting to get cold here in Texas. :)</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l3RibMATXus/Vlyd1rpndXI/AAAAAAAADbg/Z2RjDSjaXVE/s1600/20151130-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l3RibMATXus/Vlyd1rpndXI/AAAAAAAADbg/Z2RjDSjaXVE/s320/20151130-5.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Record and Sister Risenmay at Urgent Care. Sister Record is doing much better.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-If9SGbTlm_Q/VlyecibQvcI/AAAAAAAADb4/w4rriNuX-JE/s1600/20151130-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-If9SGbTlm_Q/VlyecibQvcI/AAAAAAAADb4/w4rriNuX-JE/s320/20151130-6.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> Sister Record, St Nick and Sister Risenmay</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RXTRTYrzCYA/Vlyd2BQyDwI/AAAAAAAADbY/4bmmj101xI4/s1600/20151130-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RXTRTYrzCYA/Vlyd2BQyDwI/AAAAAAAADbY/4bmmj101xI4/s320/20151130-9.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Umm... St Nicks.</i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-62337284616059517232015-11-24T12:04:00.000-08:002015-11-24T12:04:20.336-08:00Anytime, Anywhere<div>
Area: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay<br /> </div>
<div>
There is nothing better than knowing that our efforts are bringing
others closer to Christ. We never know what kind of difference we're
making in the lives of those around us. As we truly live the gospel, we
let the light of Christ shine. Sometimes we touch people in ways we
would never expect.<br /><br />For example, earlier this week Sister Risenmay and I had just finished weekly planning. It was about <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_85485049" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">3:00</span></span>
when we were leaving our apartment. We were putting the bike rack on
our car and loading up our bikes, when a gentleman drove up and asked,
"Where are you going with those bikes?" We were taken aback at first.
For a moment I thought he might have been a member by the way he talked
to us, but I could see that he wasn't. He wanted to know if we knew some
biking routes because he and his wife had just gotten bikes. He
proceeded to tell us that every morning when he goes to work he sees us
after we work out in the gym. He then started asking us a lot of
questions about what we do as missionaries. We were able to share more
about the Book of Mormon with him as well as why we became missionaries.
It's really neat to think that even at 7 in the morning, when we're all
sweaty in our work out clothes, people notice. The message we send is
not necessarily in the words we speak. It's more about who we really
are. Our actions speak louder than words.<br /><br />President and Sister
Slaughter have a member friend who's a doctor. Sister Slaughter was
telling us a story about how one of his coworkers who is not a member
noticed some sister missionaries outside pushing their bikes in the
rain. This woman was deeply touched by their devotion. Those sister
missionaries probably had no idea that someone was watching them. But
this woman was so moved, that she took a picture and sent it to the
doctor who is a member, who then sent it to Sister Slaughter. Sister
Slaughter talked to us about how we are missionaries wherever we're at. <br /><br />Are
we holding up the light of Christ? We covenanted with God at baptism
that we would "stand as witnesses of him at all times, in all things,
and in <i>all places we are in</i>." (Mosiah 18:9) Are we keeping that
covenant? Even when we're stuck in the rain, or hot and sweaty in our
workout clothes. When we are singing in the car, or buying groceries at
the grocery store. Or in the privacy of our home. What about when the
hearts of those who were once faithful fail them? Will we also falter? I
can say with all of my heart that I never will. I love the Lord, and
sustain his prophets. My heart will never fail me, because it belongs to
the Savior.</div>
<div>
<br />Lately we've had the opportunity to interact
with a deaf man. He has been coming to the church for the past several
weeks. We are not able to communicate very well with him. Even those who
know sign language struggle because he seems to have a different
dialect of ASL. After multiple attempts of trying to help him with
little success, we finally decided that there isn't a whole lot we can
do for him other than invite him in. <span style="background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);">Last Sunday one of the wards had a primary program, and he came again. </span>We
had been sitting in sacrament meeting for a while and the primary
program had already started, when a member pulled us aside and said that
there was a deaf man who wanted to talk to us. We went out, and simply
beckoned him to come in and join us. The moment he came in, the primary
was singing a song that they had learned sign language for. He sat
forward and watched intently. It was such a tender mercy for him to be
able to understand what they were saying the moment he walked in. Talk
about inspiration! I am so grateful for that wonderful primary chorister
who was inspired to teach the children sign language. She had no idea
that there was a very lonely man there that day who would possibly only
understand what those children sang/signed. To me, and to him, that was
the most powerful sermon of the entire meeting. God knows his children,
and he feeds the one. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There are so many things
to be grateful for. I am grateful for the eyes to see the miracles that
surround us. I'm grateful to be a part of the greatest work on Earth
and in Heaven. That is, to gather Israel. I know who I am. I love my
family.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am grateful for you all!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sincerely,</div>
Sister Record<br />
<br />
Pictures<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yeJ76Se1ew0/VlNf0dLvPyI/AAAAAAAADZc/xJ5KEAo-WOs/s1600/20151123-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yeJ76Se1ew0/VlNf0dLvPyI/AAAAAAAADZc/xJ5KEAo-WOs/s320/20151123-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psHv2YvnVTY/VlNf0YArUrI/AAAAAAAADZg/OsBoB7-PwT0/s1600/20151123-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psHv2YvnVTY/VlNf0YArUrI/AAAAAAAADZg/OsBoB7-PwT0/s320/20151123-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dX7QBHV2Bbg/VlS8_KH1-PI/AAAAAAAADaA/_Amh3i2StIA/s1600/20151123-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dX7QBHV2Bbg/VlS8_KH1-PI/AAAAAAAADaA/_Amh3i2StIA/s320/20151123-4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-9475284110624901022015-11-16T13:56:00.000-08:002015-11-16T13:56:05.461-08:00Hurrah for Israel!Area: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay<br /><br />Hurrah for Israel!<br /><br />Sister Risenmay and I are together for another transfer. We are very excited to have Thanksgiving together. This transfer will be a week shorter, so that the outgoing missionaries will be able to travel before the week of Christmas. And next transfer is... my final transfer. It feels like my first 12 weeks were just yesterday.<br /><br />You'll never guess who became Sister Fullam's companion. Sister Bills! She just came from Serenada so it's been great to catch up with her about everyone. I'm excited to do exchanges with them!<br /><br />After transfer meeting on Thursday we stopped by the distribution center by the temple to get some needed items. I was thrilled to run into a member from the Serenada ward! We were standing in the same isle and didn't even notice each other. She turned to us and asked if we would take a picture. I looked and saw that is was Sister Perry! As we got to talking her friend kindly asked us if the mission is hard. Sister Risenmay and I both immediately responded that it's not. There was another sister missionary with us who said that it is. That struck both my companion and I. We talked about it later and found that we both do not feel that this is hard. I can honestly say that there are no bad days, no bad areas, no bad companions, no bad feelings. Period. Yes, there are hardships. I can tell you that my heart has been broken a couple times, but that's life. Those don't even weigh a speck compared to the joy and the growth of helping others. I am confident in the power and authority of my calling and I am here to spread the good news of the gospel now and forever. I am a disciple of <a href="http://jesuschrist.lds.org/SonOfGod?lang=eng" target="_blank">Jesus Christ</a>, with a special commission to represent him and invite others to hear and accept the message of the restoration. How great is this call. It is not hard to be a servant of the Lord when we know who we are. His gospel is simple and so is his work. What is his work exactly? "...to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." (Moses 1:39) Life is supposed to be hard, but it's amazing how when we lose ourselves in the service of God "his yoke is easy and his burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)<br /><br />The call to serve is a lifelong commission. One that I have always felt and will continue to live forever. We can all serve the Lord in this great and marvelous work.<br /><br />{H} is doing very well. We had a pivotal lesson with her where she was able to recognize what is holding her back from being baptized. She is still a dry Mormon and is most definitely going to be baptized soon. She's already planning it, but is just having trouble pinning down a goal date.<br /><br />While we were teaching an older part member couple, near the end of the lesson their troubled grandson walked past. I felt we needed to invite him in, so I called after him and we invited him to join us. To his grandparents astonishment, he willingly agreed. We told him about <a href="https://www.mormon.org/beliefs/book-of-mormon" target="_blank">the Book of Mormon</a> and testified of it's divinity. As we shared with him how it came to be and what it can do for him, his countenance changed and he had genuine desire to read it. We gave him a copy and he agreed to take lessons from us. Yes! I love those little moments when we get to teach someone who is placed in our path.<br /><br />I love you all, and hope you have a great week!<br /><br />Love,<br />Sister Record<br />
<br />
<h2>
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a0Q1MjvCDS0/VkpPUYbcziI/AAAAAAAADYg/dJ9e0XGNvY8/s1600/20151116-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a0Q1MjvCDS0/VkpPUYbcziI/AAAAAAAADYg/dJ9e0XGNvY8/s320/20151116-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is a sister we visit on occassion. We love her!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-112K6aR_NFE/VkpPUVB09vI/AAAAAAAADYk/cLfg00NKR94/s1600/20151116-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-112K6aR_NFE/VkpPUVB09vI/AAAAAAAADYk/cLfg00NKR94/s320/20151116-1.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I know it's a little early for Christmas, but we saw this sign in<br />
Kneaders and thought it was cute.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vydu0vOa9M0/VkpPUeWfrbI/AAAAAAAADYc/_nkE7FkeTOE/s1600/20151116-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vydu0vOa9M0/VkpPUeWfrbI/AAAAAAAADYc/_nkE7FkeTOE/s320/20151116-3.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Oh, and do you remember the shoes I came out with? I am quite proud of<br />
their wear and tear. I still have them, and I think I'll keep them<br />
forever... (It's kind of gross if you look too closely.)</i></div>
<br />
<br />Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-72025821738740481702015-11-10T14:28:00.000-08:002015-11-10T14:28:03.530-08:00Mission PearlsArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay<br /><br />It's another bright day, here in the TSAM!<br /><br />Never underestimate the influence the light of Christ has on others. What happens when we turn a flash light on in a dark room? The light overpowers the darkness. Correct? Yes! If two people were in a dark room and one was standing on the opposite end from the one holding the flashlight, would that person be able to see the light even though they aren't holding it? Of course!<br /><br />The reason I share this is because earlier this week we were teaching {A} about the plan of salvation. At some point during the lesson she got to talking about how she has seen missionaries many times in the past. She told us that a few months ago some sister missionaries in Del Rio approached her while she was grabbing groceries. They asked if they could help. She said she didn't need help. The sisters talked a little about the gospel. Even though {A} wasn't open right then to hear much, it left an impression on her. She remembers that moment clearly and has never forgotten it. Now, a few months later, she's working towards being baptized. I asked her if one of the missionaries was tall with long dark hair. She said yes. I am almost certain that my previous companion, Sister Montclair is one of the missionaries that talked to her. That may have seemed small and insignificant to those two sister missionaries, but look where {A} is now.<br /><br />{T} and {A} both have been out of town. We hadn't seen them for a week. She told us at the beginning of the week that she would text us when she gets back. We never got a text from her so we texted her the morning after they were supposed to be back and got no response. We decided to stop by that evening anyways. When we stopped by she had barely been home an hour and would be leaving again the next day. It turns out that their phone wasn't working properly so they could receive our messages, but not respond. She was so happy that we still came. The lords timing is always perfect. She has been reading AND comprehending the Book of Mormon. It is amazing how she just soaks everything up!<br /><br />If y'all have not read about the tree of life in 1 Nephi 8 and 11 lately, I would strongly encourage you to. Without going too much into the symbolism, the rod of iron with the straight and narrow path that leads to eternal life is right in the middle of the great and spacious field. Which is the world. The path is not away from the world, it is in the midst of the world. Temptation is all around, threatening to blur our vision of the tree of life. There are many in the great and spacious field, or the world, who are "pressing forward that they might obtain the path which led to the tree..." There is a gate that one must enter to enter the path to eternal life. That is repentance and baptism by one holding the priesthood authority of God. There are others who wander instead, to the great and spacious building, which represents the pride of the world. They mock and point at those who are partaking of the fruit of the tree. Those who are in the field are not necessarily in the building. Many of them are searching for the light of the gospel.<br /><br />2 Nephi 2:8<br />"Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah..."<br /><br />There are some who, even after entering the path and partaking of the fruit of the tree of life, forsake what they once knew because they are ashamed at the mocking and pointing and pride of the world. They leave the path. There are others who simply become so overwhelmed by the mist of darkness that they sit down in despair, not knowing what to do next. It is those that we must take by the hand and say,<br />
<br />"..Be strong, fear not. Behold your God will come...<br />"Then shall [their] eyes be opened, and [their] ears shall be unstopped"<br />(Isaiah 35:3-5)<br /><br />Once again, they will see the light of the gospel. They will remember what they need to do to obtain eternal life. And what is it we must do to obtain eternal life after we have entered the path? Endure to the end.<br /><br />"And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save.<br />
<br />"Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life."<br />(2 Nephi 32:19-20 see also vs. 17-18)<br /><br />They just need a guiding hand. Don't ever give up on those whose faith is weak.<br />"...for ye know not but what they will return and repent, and come unto me with full purpose of heart, and I shall heal them; and ye shall be the means of bringing salvation unto them." (3 Nephi 18:32)<br /><br />In answer to your question about my "mission pearls", I certainly have a string of them. In fact I probably have several strings of them. But here are just a few:<br /><br />1. Charity, or the pure love of Christ, never fails. It is not something that we are capable of giving or feeling on our own. It is a gift from Heavenly Father. Not only must we gain charity for those who are difficult to love, but we must gain charity for those whom we instantly love. Love is one thing, charity is another. If we only love someone, eventually that love will die. I've learned that charity must be sought after in every relationship.<br />2. We have the power to choose. We have the responsibility to choose Christ. When we break the commandments we are bounding ourselves to the devil and limiting our agency.<br />3. Remember Ammonihah<br />4. God blesses us with weaknesses so that we may have the best chance possible to keep our covenant to remember him. Weaknesses and trials are so merciful. When we are baptized, we covenant with God that we will always remember him. When we don't, we lose his spirit. God gives us weaknesses so that we have opportunities to remember him. We overcome them though the savior.<br />5. My family is eternal. Both my current, and my future family. I will never settle for less.<br /><br />I love you all! Have a wonderful week. <br /><br />Sincerely,<br />Sister Record<br />
<br />
<br />
<h2>
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o8Dp1TSVHJU/VkD-jPbYSdI/AAAAAAAADWw/CUApzB2HiRo/s1600/20151109-01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o8Dp1TSVHJU/VkD-jPbYSdI/AAAAAAAADWw/CUApzB2HiRo/s320/20151109-01.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Last Monday we went and got shakes at Tealicious.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jetvDHouJoQ/VkD-jMXGR-I/AAAAAAAADWs/B8XjaBMoBak/s1600/20151109-02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jetvDHouJoQ/VkD-jMXGR-I/AAAAAAAADWs/B8XjaBMoBak/s320/20151109-02.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PaKJpjApd9E/VkD-jLasulI/AAAAAAAADWo/nrvVJJ7aDIY/s1600/20151109-03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PaKJpjApd9E/VkD-jLasulI/AAAAAAAADWo/nrvVJJ7aDIY/s320/20151109-03.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Before MLC us, the zone leaders, and Sister Smith went to the<br />
temple (Sister Smith was invited to come since it's her last<br />
transfer). We got up super early so that we could have time to go.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x0LHH5NYHx0/VkD-j-ivUAI/AAAAAAAADW0/jHfVzxj9Ocs/s1600/20151109-04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x0LHH5NYHx0/VkD-j-ivUAI/AAAAAAAADW0/jHfVzxj9Ocs/s320/20151109-04.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Schoen! She was the relief society president in the Converse<br />
ward when I was a brand new missionary. I see her every MLC in the<br />
institute office.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_HGuTDAUmww/VkD-kjlZ4wI/AAAAAAAADXE/bGL4WhaDFWQ/s1600/20151109-06.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_HGuTDAUmww/VkD-kjlZ4wI/AAAAAAAADXE/bGL4WhaDFWQ/s320/20151109-06.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>It was absolutely amazing to go counsel and learn at MLC (Mission Leadership Council).</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PxxdE5lHQ-o/VkD-kE6b-kI/AAAAAAAADXc/WPKzVRmffgA/s1600/20151109-05.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PxxdE5lHQ-o/VkD-kE6b-kI/AAAAAAAADXc/WPKzVRmffgA/s320/20151109-05.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>There were a lot of sisters at MLC this time because President<br />
Slaughter invited a few who are on their last transfer.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MtTliYyUPCY/VkD-k_fL-wI/AAAAAAAADXM/zWK_JV0XnOY/s1600/20151109-07.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MtTliYyUPCY/VkD-k_fL-wI/AAAAAAAADXM/zWK_JV0XnOY/s320/20151109-07.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We were all in the MTC together!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pS0IaM4JFxo/VkD-mYifYbI/AAAAAAAADXk/0pSaRPt7wZ0/s1600/20151109-09.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pS0IaM4JFxo/VkD-mYifYbI/AAAAAAAADXk/0pSaRPt7wZ0/s320/20151109-09.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Everything is definitely bigger in Texas</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Sr3flzedzw/VkD-lwa7uEI/AAAAAAAADXY/aXgVXK5ipR4/s1600/20151109-08.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Sr3flzedzw/VkD-lwa7uEI/AAAAAAAADXY/aXgVXK5ipR4/s320/20151109-08.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Spent some time at the Mercado today.</i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-33727992947250802812015-11-02T12:55:00.001-08:002015-11-02T12:55:15.908-08:00Will You Go With Me?Area: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay <br />
<br />
Dearest Family and Friends,<br />
<br />
First of all, I'd like to ease any concerns you may have for me about the weather. It has not affected the area where I'm serving at all. The only weather we've had is a little bit of rain. In fact, there isn't even any humanitarian work for us to do close by. We're safe. I do hope we have an opportunity to help out, but right now, there isn't any damage close to us. We've actually had some pretty nice days. I do admit, we had some crazy thunder in the middle of one night, but the next day was clear. <br />
<br />
Once again, my heart is full as I reflect on the past week. The miracles never cease, nor will they ever.<br />
<br />
{H} is doing very well. She made it to church yesterday and came to the ward she actually lives in for the first time. Thank goodness we're over both wards, and the ward was very welcoming to her. It was a wonderful fast and testimony meeting. About half way through she leaned over to us and said, "If I go up, will you go with me?" Um... Absolutely! We readily agreed. She went first and as she introduced herself she stated, "I'm not a member yet, but I'm a work in progress." She pointed at us, then proceeded to tell a story that not only blew us away, but the entire congregation.<br />
<br />
First, let me tell you our side of the story. Thursday night Sister Risenmay and I felt that we needed to stop by her house. It wasn't a solid plan, just a thought. One of our appointments fell through, so we went right over to {H}'s. She welcomed us in with her usual kindness. She happened to be babysitting her great-nieces and nephew (ages 14, 8, and 6). She gathered them around to hear what we had to say. We shared the <a href="https://www.mormonchannel.org/watch/series/mormon-messages" target="_blank">Mormon message</a>, "Our True Identity" by Pres. Uchtdorf and talked about how God is our loving Heavenly Father. We testified that we are all children of God. {H} was very touched by that message and thanked us. She asked the children some questions to check for their understanding. We gave them each a picture of <a href="http://jesuschrist.lds.org/SonOfGod?lang=eng" target="_blank">Jesus Christ</a> with the children, and she told them to keep it in their backpack where they could always have it. Before leaving we gave them each a hug. We knew it was spirit led and it was good to talk to {H} in person again. In the car after that visit, we both felt very peaceful and happy.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Our True Identity</b></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="270" id="flashObj" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=1070815426001&linkBaseURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lds.org%2Fyouth%2Fvideo%2Four-true-identity%3Flang%3Deng&playerID=901569084001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAA0ZXbIXk~,CUDb-EhKU-08yzcLk4G18BkZR0vh0I19&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="videoId=1070815426001&linkBaseURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lds.org%2Fyouth%2Fvideo%2Four-true-identity%3Flang%3Deng&playerID=901569084001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAA0ZXbIXk~,CUDb-EhKU-08yzcLk4G18BkZR0vh0I19&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="480" height="270" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" swLiveConnect="true" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object>
</div>
<br />
Now, here is {H}'s side of the story as told over the pulpit. I'm paraphrasing, of course. That morning was a rough morning for her. She wasn't feeling well, and then her niece called and asked her to babysit the children. She already had plans for the evening, but she didn't know what else to tell her because of the situation, so she took them in. These kids have very little spiritual foundation and have a hard life. When we came, it was an answer to {H}'s prayer because she was trying to figure out how she could help them. The 14 year old in particular needed that message and was truly touched by the spirit as we were there and as we gave her a hug. {H} was moved to tears as she was describing her observation of her niece. She then declared, "I know that this church is true". She bore a beautiful testimony of the gospel. You would think she was already a member.<br />
<br />
After she bore her testimony, Sister Risenmay and I bore ours. Almost everyone was in tears. The spirit in that meeting was so pure and penetrating.<br />
<br />
We had a sweet, well-intentioned member of the ward approach us and say, "You have had so much success lately". Her kind words were appreciated. However, we are not the ones who made all these things happen. The Lord is. We were simply there, acting as his instruments. We just showed up. He is using us all to accomplish his purposes. Success is not always seen. I know more than ever that success in the natural man's eyes is very different than success in the Lord eyes.<br />
<br />
I am grateful beyond words for the opportunity to serve in the Lord's vineyard. It is a privilege and a blessing. It's hard to believe that I'm approaching the end of my mission. I want you to know that my testimony in a bonfire that cannot waver. "I'll never, no never, no never forsake!" (<a href="https://www.lds.org/music/library/hymns/how-firm-a-foundation?lang=eng" target="_blank">How Firm a Foundation</a>, Hymn 86, verse 7) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has been restored. It is the very organization that Christ established on the Earth with each of his prophets. Of this I testify and give my life, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Sister Record<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Pictures</b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eP0K2g9iWes/VjfE_XUaBiI/AAAAAAAADVk/2-rrr1snkWs/s1600/20151102-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eP0K2g9iWes/VjfE_XUaBiI/AAAAAAAADVk/2-rrr1snkWs/s320/20151102-01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We volunteer at the food bank every week as a zone. It's really fun!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQbFbW0SDng/VjfFArEHOtI/AAAAAAAADVc/LRwIuaSS3Ug/s1600/20151102-07.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQbFbW0SDng/VjfFArEHOtI/AAAAAAAADVc/LRwIuaSS3Ug/s320/20151102-07.JPG" width="239" /> </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We went shopping at members home who is part of a modest clothing company created by a member of the church. It was perfect! She gave us an amazing discount since we're missionaries. That's where I got my cute new flower dress.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOFvF7XI0Io/VjfE_fzR8CI/AAAAAAAADVo/I2abAF41z8Y/s1600/20151102-03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOFvF7XI0Io/VjfE_fzR8CI/AAAAAAAADVo/I2abAF41z8Y/s320/20151102-03.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Left to right: Sister Risenmay, me, President Slaughter, Sister Slaughter, Sister Smith, and Sister Fullam. Sister Fullam asked President Slaughter if they could do a question-answer session with us. He was more than happy to. They both drove down to our church building and we discussed the gospel and marriage stuff for an hour and a half. Sister Slaughter even brought pie. It was great!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XI37DXQlXOQ/VjfFABJyTPI/AAAAAAAADVg/KzF1-cR6KbE/s1600/20151102-06.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XI37DXQlXOQ/VjfFABJyTPI/AAAAAAAADVg/KzF1-cR6KbE/s320/20151102-06.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The district.. :) Ha ha.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-naSEiOgg8yA/VjfE_ZYC2rI/AAAAAAAADVw/z8Hmm6FPrz8/s1600/20151102-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-naSEiOgg8yA/VjfE_ZYC2rI/AAAAAAAADVw/z8Hmm6FPrz8/s320/20151102-02.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I got to go on an exchange with Sister Winn! She's my "step-sister". Meaning, she was trained by Sister Felix and then Sister Felix finished my training. It was a fantastic exchange!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kckryMKG5G8/VjfFAtZB54I/AAAAAAAADVY/rY6mIZh2LEc/s1600/20151102-08.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kckryMKG5G8/VjfFAtZB54I/AAAAAAAADVY/rY6mIZh2LEc/s320/20151102-08.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OyIp2U1GOxg/VjfFBAExneI/AAAAAAAADVs/RTzE9y9HsNw/s1600/20151102-09.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OyIp2U1GOxg/VjfFBAExneI/AAAAAAAADVs/RTzE9y9HsNw/s320/20151102-09.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Record and Sister Risenmay: It's Halloween, and a beautiful day for bikes!</i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-75034432482903096652015-10-26T15:01:00.002-07:002015-10-26T15:01:52.959-07:00Miracle of the Day... Every DayArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay <br /><br />You will not believe the miracles that have transpired! Let me just say that the Lord IS gathering his children from the four corners of the Earth. And he is gathering his children here, in the Texas San Antonio mission. To be even more specific, here in our area. I am not kidding when I say that EVERY DAY we are seeing miracles. We have so many investigators right now. <br /><br />On Saturday morning (two days ago) at 11am, one of our Bishops called us and said that he had a referral for us. He told us that this young man had gotten in contact with some sister missionaries at the <a href="https://www.lds.org/locations/independence-visitors-center" target="_blank">Independence, Missouri visitors center</a> via <a href="http://mormon.org/">Mormon.org</a>. He is not from Texas, but has been here for several weeks for military training. He has took all of the lessons in his home town and he wanted to be baptized as soon as possible. We told the Bishop we were on it. You can imagine our excitement after receiving that phone call. We called this young man, right away. When he answered the phone we said, "We heard that you have taken lessons from missionaries before and that you would like to be baptized as soon as possible. Is that correct?" His response: "Yes ma'am." We set up an appointment to meet with him at 2:00 that day at the church. Sister Risenmay and I were aware of the possibility of him being baptized the next day, but we figured it would probably take a week. We had no way of knowing until after meeting him. Sure enough, at 2:00 we met him and his fiancé. The spirit immediately filled the room and we both received a witness that it was time for him to be baptized soon. We talked for a little bit and found out that he had received and interview to be baptized before coming to boot camp, but it wasn't quite time. He still had some questions about prophets. But while he was away he felt a witness of the truthfulness of the gospel. We had a bit of a lesson on the sabbath day, and asked him the baptismal interview questions to see where he was at. By the end, we asked him, "So when do you want to get baptized?" His response: "Today." There was no way to arrange it any other way. We couldn't do it on Sunday because he needed to be back on base by a certain time. We called up the district leader to come interview him, called President Slaughter, and moved forward. We excused ourselves to another room. We now had one hour to organize and plan a baptism. The first thing we did was kneel in prayer. Everything was moving so fast. It was not humanly possible for us to do what we were doing in the time we were doing it. Plus we were unsure about whether it was the right thing to do. After praying, we got up and called the Bishop. Amazingly it all came together. We were able to call the zone leaders to come help us, Bishop gathered some people, we called people and created the program on spot. Our district leader and his companion told us that they were available any time during the day to help us, except for 4:00. Which was when it would be happening. Right after the interview however, their appointment cancelled. It just so happens that Elder Reimsheusul already had a talk prepared on baptism, and his companion, Elder Atagi, had been studying the Holy Ghost. Two talks, done. We had some ward missionaries help with the prayers, and a few ward members were able to drop everything and be there. It was a small, but powerful service. We both had a very peaceful feeling that this was right. Our Bishop just got back from being away, and was able to share with them some things they really needed to hear. It was perfect, and so miraculous. I have to say, I have never experienced meeting someone then planning their baptism in less than an hour. I have seen the majesty of our almighty God parting the Red Sea to allow this young man to be baptized right when he needed to be. He leaves in a week or so because he's being transferred. There was literally no other way, and it happened! It was incredible! <br /><br />
{T} and {A} are doing amazing. We taught them three times this week and they are really progressing. I don't know if I've ever seen someone so prepared. They came to church on Sunday, which was huge. {A} loved it so much, that she went up and met the Bishop afterwards. This was the perfect sacrament meeting to have investigators at. Which is a blessing, because an entire pew and more was filled with people that we have been teaching over the past week. Both less active, and investigators. {K} was confirmed by the Bishop on Sunday. Getting people to church is usually a struggle. So that, in and of itself was incredible. <br /><br />To put it simply, my jaw is no longer dropping each day when someone incredibly prepared approaches us. I have simply decided to be grateful for the trust God has placed in us, and get to work baptizing all these people. We are here to baptize, and baptize we will. Because the lord has blessed us with multiple miraculous opportunities literally each day. There is no doubt in my mind that his work is moving forward full speed. We are preparing for the second coming of the Savior, and he is gathering his people. I am humbled to be an instrument in his hands, and will accomplish all that he asks us to do, whatever it may be. <br /><br />Sincerely,<br />Sister Record <br /><br />P.S. I've been studying the tree of life in depth for a couple weeks. It has everything to do with the gathering of Israel. I was going to go into depth about what I've learned with that, but I do not have time. Hopefully I'll get to share that with y'all soon. Here's one thought: In <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/rev/22?lang=eng" target="_blank">Revelation 22</a> John sees the vision of the tree of life. It so amazing!! You should read it with that in mind. :) <br /><br />I love you all! <br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Jc6GeE4to8/Vi6eYJqVTqI/AAAAAAAADTY/4ryzCgqpdDE/s1600/20151026-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Jc6GeE4to8/Vi6eYJqVTqI/AAAAAAAADTY/4ryzCgqpdDE/s320/20151026-2.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n1M9QOwXP4o/Vi6eYc4KQ9I/AAAAAAAADTU/eglrFxm-6Cc/s1600/20151026-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n1M9QOwXP4o/Vi6eYc4KQ9I/AAAAAAAADTU/eglrFxm-6Cc/s320/20151026-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>At the church after our first evening of bike riding. Sister<br />
Risenmay hasn't ridden her bike yet on her mission. It was so great!<br />
(Don't worry, we do not bike at night. The church is home base for our<br />
car when we put up our bikes and go home.)</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FvcQLL4GuDw/Vi6eZWB76_I/AAAAAAAADTg/VA5I4zjgzgA/s1600/20151026-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FvcQLL4GuDw/Vi6eZWB76_I/AAAAAAAADTg/VA5I4zjgzgA/s320/20151026-3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Risenmay and Sister Record: More bike riding. This is right after a meeting with one of our ward mission leaders. He took a few pictures. </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9_UAngizSmk/Vi6eeVRnFiI/AAAAAAAADT0/jrTylY9Kezg/s1600/20151026-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9_UAngizSmk/Vi6eeVRnFiI/AAAAAAAADT0/jrTylY9Kezg/s320/20151026-6.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OWwWTIuZnnU/Vi6efjIuAHI/AAAAAAAADUE/kDdJGjQObho/s1600/20151026-7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OWwWTIuZnnU/Vi6efjIuAHI/AAAAAAAADUE/kDdJGjQObho/s320/20151026-7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Risenmay and Sister Record: At the ward party, 1 hour after the baptism.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pms4HYyYFHY/Vi6egyzr7mI/AAAAAAAADUQ/eCxIjivrqRQ/s1600/20151026-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pms4HYyYFHY/Vi6egyzr7mI/AAAAAAAADUQ/eCxIjivrqRQ/s320/20151026-9.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We were also exhausted. Completely wiped out. Ha ha.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--IxUYObAsRo/Vi6egfpmLEI/AAAAAAAADUM/ZRMBXCq3w4c/s1600/20151026-8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--IxUYObAsRo/Vi6egfpmLEI/AAAAAAAADUM/ZRMBXCq3w4c/s320/20151026-8.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>After nightly planning, we were so happy from the miraculous day!</i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-22111597137175085352015-10-20T12:12:00.002-07:002015-10-20T12:12:10.362-07:00Walk Out the DoorArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay<br />
<br />
Dearest family and friends,<br />
<br />
My heart is overjoyed as I reflect on this past week we've had. The miracles have been overwhelming. Every day we meet people who are so prepared and who recognize us as servants of the Lord. Almost every single person we meet is looking for a church and desires more. I wish I could share with you each miracle we have seen, but there is way too many. Sister Risenmay and I have focused on and discussed three main things this transfer:<br />
<br />
1. Creating a culture of consecration. Or in other words, to love God.<br />
2. Inspiring, rather than simply motivating or dictating<br />
3. The power of unity<br />
<br />
I have learned much about companionship unity on my mission. I can honestly say that every single one of my companions and I have become unified, and I love each of them dearly. What does it mean to be unified?<br />
<br />
The Lord so beautifully instructs us in D&C 38:27, "...be one; and if ye are not one, ye are not mine."<br />
<br />
That is pretty straight forward. If we are not one as disciples of Christ, we are not his. How can we properly represent <a href="http://jesuschrist.lds.org/SonOfGod?lang=eng" target="_blank">Jesus Christ</a> if we are not one? It doesn't work very well. The solution to any such struggle is this. We have <a href="https://www.mormon.org/values/choice" target="_blank">the power to choose</a>. Choose to love God and his children. Choose to be unified with those whom we serve with. Whether it be a spouse, a family member, a companion, etc. God has instilled in each of us a power that can be used to inherit all that he has, or abused to lead us into spiritual bondage. We are agents, not objects.<br />
<br />
I have never experienced unity to the extent that I have with Sister Risenmay. I don't know what it is about Sister Risenmay, but we literally share the same vision in everything we do.<br />
<br />
Yesterday we had three different classes to teach between the two wards we cover. As we set our stuff down in the gospel principles class after our second sacrament meeting, we needed to take a restroom break before teaching. We did not have a chance to get to the restroom because a member of the ward called from the other direction and told us that there were some people outside who weren't members that wanted to talk to us. We followed him outside and met a couple who were dressed in regular clothes. The woman, {A} was overwhelmed. She told us that she needed to be here. The man, {T}, was standing close behind and seemed very supportive. As we got to talking with them we found out that they had never been to our church before. They have both been going through a lot, and somehow just knew that this was where they needed to be. We looked at them and assured them that they had been led here by God. The moments those words left my mouth, {A} broke into tears and Sister Risenmay hugged her for a long time. {T} piped in and said that they just wanted to be a part of a good community and that he felt this is where they could find it. They explained that they're looking for a place to raise there family. {A} emphatically stated that she knows this is where they need to be because she could feel it. She was very adamant when she said, "I want to be here every single Sunday!" They didn't want to go inside right then because they felt uncomfortable with how they were dressed. We talked with them for a good 10 or 15 minutes. We are very excited to start teaching them tonight. They are incredibly prepared! When we walked inside we could barely contain our excitement. We looked at each other and whispered with a big smile, "What just happened??" and gave each other a big hug. Ha ha! Sister Risenmay and I were quite late to gospel principles. The regular teacher went ahead and got started.<br />
<br />
Needless to say, we shared with our gospel principles class the miracle that had just occurred and testified that the Lord is truly preparing his people to receive the gospel. All we did was WALK OUT THE DOOR, and they were there. We shared that with the Elders quorum as well.<br />
<br />
{H} is doing amazing. She has had some trials, but she isn't letting that stop her. It's been hard to set up appointments because of all that's been going on. So we just pop in on her and we're able to have a lesson that way. She is so ready. Her family who are the members are coming into town today. She's going to talk to them about a date for her to get baptized. She wants them to be there. They have no idea yet. We are planning to have a lesson with her while they're there, and we're thrilled to meet them. We just know that they will be thrilled to hear that {H} is finally ready to take that step! Despite some arthritic pain, she made it to church on Sunday, and was deeply touched during the sacrament, as we had left her with the sacrament prayers in Moroni 4 and 5 to read before coming. She told us just before they started passing the bread that she read the chapters.<br />
<br />
There have been countless moments every single day that we just look at each other and stand amazed at the Lords hand guiding us. At one point last night we both wondered why there are so many miracles. Through the inspired words of our mission President this morning in his weekly email, we now know that it is very much a direct result of our unity and faithfulness to God that is opening the windows of Heaven in such a powerful way. There is indeed power in unity.<br />
<br />
I love the Lord. I know that my companion loves the Lord. And I couldn't be more happy.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Sister Record<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nbix_cVHJRY/ViU4pJzca5I/AAAAAAAADSU/LlNOCA-2MVY/s1600/20151019-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nbix_cVHJRY/ViU4pJzca5I/AAAAAAAADSU/LlNOCA-2MVY/s320/20151019-1.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is after an exchange with Sister Gagon, one of the new lead<br />
sister training leaders. The sun was super bright...</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aZAeHuSFZhs/ViU4p6p5kGI/AAAAAAAADSA/TEak2O1rYXU/s1600/20151019-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aZAeHuSFZhs/ViU4p6p5kGI/AAAAAAAADSA/TEak2O1rYXU/s320/20151019-4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>After we went on exchanges with the Palo Alto Sisters, who live with us, Sister Risenmay and Sister Fullum (far left) made us a delicious breakfast of German pancakes and fruit.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4y9D3PjnMx8/ViU4o2r2zCI/AAAAAAAADRo/moYAhj7q4RI/s1600/20151019-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4y9D3PjnMx8/ViU4o2r2zCI/AAAAAAAADRo/moYAhj7q4RI/s320/20151019-3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>We finished inputting one of our area books in the area book planner app. It is a lot of work. We celebrated with Sonic ice cream. Yum!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GbOHXQ7nfpE/ViU4ql4hAUI/AAAAAAAADSc/ZEJ2b9cbYEc/s1600/20151019-6.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GbOHXQ7nfpE/ViU4ql4hAUI/AAAAAAAADSc/ZEJ2b9cbYEc/s320/20151019-6.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Miracles of technology! We were able to be present at Sister Risenmay's investigators baptism. He lives up past Austin, while we're here in San Antonio. It was wonderful.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-89fgj1qWw2Q/ViU4o269ojI/AAAAAAAADR4/x72FXbNDPQ4/s1600/20151019-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-89fgj1qWw2Q/ViU4o269ojI/AAAAAAAADR4/x72FXbNDPQ4/s320/20151019-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Risenmay and I shortly after MLC the week before last.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TUfKfe23EeM/ViU4q6KElzI/AAAAAAAADSE/IE1oCWLOZLA/s1600/20151019-7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TUfKfe23EeM/ViU4q6KElzI/AAAAAAAADSE/IE1oCWLOZLA/s320/20151019-7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-usobhp1pPG8/ViU4rfimGVI/AAAAAAAADSM/BNKqln6OYRE/s1600/20151019-8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-usobhp1pPG8/ViU4rfimGVI/AAAAAAAADSM/BNKqln6OYRE/s320/20151019-8.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Look at what my hair did, naturally! It looks like I curled it with a<br />
curling iron, but it did that all by itself. I must have wrapped the<br />
towel around my head just right or something... I wish it would do<br />
that every day.</i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-91728258058150654382015-10-12T13:01:00.000-07:002015-10-12T13:01:10.254-07:00God Invites and Entices UsArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay<br />
<br />
My dearest family and friends, <br />
<br />
What a delight it is to serve God! He lives! The Spirit is very much at work in this part of the Lords vineyard. There are miracles happening left and right, every moment of every day. <br />
<br />
The other day we were going to visit a less active couple. Bishop asked us to go see them a couple weeks ago but we were unable to access their neighborhood until we had passes to get in. Sister Risenmay and I got the passes and finally went by. As we were looking up the address she looked at me and said that there was a woman named {C} that she taught at the beginning of her mission who got baptized. And she married a man with the last name we were looking at. They moved, but no one rally knew where. Come to find out when we arrived, it was them! This woman was one of Sister Risenmay's first recent converts. They were so happy to see each other. They ran and gave each other a big hug. The power of the original missionary is real. What a tender mercy for Sister Risenmay to be here to help {C} regain that spark for the gospel again. <br />
<br />
One night we were driving with a young couple in the ward because we are saving on miles for our car, and they came with us to {SR}'s home. They have been investigating for a long time, and would be baptized by now if it weren't for something they're working towards. We haven't seen them in a while, and decided to at least try and set up a return appointment. Luckily, the couple who came out with us have been fellowshipping {SR}. They're pretty good friends. When we knocked on their door, no one was home. So we wrote a note on a sticky note. As I was about to finish the note, they pulled up. It was perfect timing. They had been gone all day, and {S} just felt like they needed to go check up on the house. Rudy was initially resisting, but {S} kept thinking about it, so they came and we were their. They let us right in and we had a great lesson. {S} offered the opening prayer and said something to the effect of, "Thank you for sending the Watsons and the missionaries. I find it strange that the Watson's came and I've been thinking about them. I've been thinking about the Book of Mormon and want to get back..." Etc... Talk about a miracle!! First of all, we asked the Watsons two hours in advance if they could come, and they did. Two of our appointments fell through that evening, and the timing was perfect for us to be there right when they pulled up. And they both want to be more diligent in learning and accepting the gospel! Amazing! The miracles have been countless this week. There has been so much progress in such a short amount of time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iKwZC0Ia3f4/Vhv0FiHFa3I/AAAAAAAADQ4/ZsJv4Gg60jI/s1600/20151012-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iKwZC0Ia3f4/Vhv0FiHFa3I/AAAAAAAADQ4/ZsJv4Gg60jI/s640/20151012-1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is right after MLC. We have a lot of Sister training leaders this transfer. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We also had the wonderful opportunity to attend MLC and learn from our leaders. We talked a lot about creating the culture of the mission. The culture that has been established by leaders before us and the culture we are striving to nurture and grow is that of steadiness, obedience, and love for God. In one word, consecration. This transfer Sister Risenmay and I are focused on helping our sisters establish that culture not just now for the mission, but for the rest of their lives. We have come in contact with too many return missionaries who forget the message that they once bore, and rather than trusting God, put their trust in the arm of flesh, and completely set aside what they once knew. It does not matter how far along we are on the straight and narrow path. Once we lose sight of the tree of life, which is Christ, we are no longer clinging to the rod of Iron., but lost in darkness. We want our sisters to understand the great importance of being obedient, steady and loving God forever. While remaining focused on our purpose here, there is also a greater purpose as to why we are here. A mission prepares us for life. We want our sisters to start thinking about life, and choose now whom they will serve. With all that is going on in this world, they cannot afford to forget who they serve. <br />
<br />
To love God above man is true humility. When the time comes for me to find my own eternal companion, he must love God above me and above all things. For example, quite some time before I came on a mission I was reading a book that I was very drawn into. It was an exciting fantasy novel. I couldn't put it down. When I realized that I wanted to read that book more than my gospel study of the scriptures I knew immediately that it wasn't of God. Everything that is of God invites and entices us to love and serve him. Well, this book was actually drawing me away from studying the scriptures. Therefore, it was drawing me away from Christ. So I sent it back to the library without finishing it. The spirit taught me a powerful lesson from that experience that I will never forget. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7.13?lang=eng#12" target="_blank">Moroni 7:13</a><br />
"But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God." <br />
<br />
It brings me great comfort to know that as we rely on Christ and we are sound in his doctrine, we can have a perfect knowledge between good and evil. That is the righteous use of agency. Ultimate freedom comes from keeping Gods commandments and living in such a way that we have perfect agency. Or, perfect freedom to act for ourselves and not be acted upon. When we choose to sin rather then obey, we are actually limiting <a href="https://www.mormon.org/values/choice" target="_blank">our own agency</a>. That is abuse of the gift God has given us. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/10.23-24?lang=eng#22" target="_blank">2 Nephi 10:23-24</a><br />
"Therefore, cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves--to choose the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life.<br />
"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, reconcile yourselves to the will of God, and not to the will of the devil and the flesh; and remember, after ye are reconciled unto God, that it is only in and through the grace of God that ye are saved." <br />
<br />
We have the power to choose. I choose Christ. <br />
<br />
In the name of <a href="http://jesuschrist.lds.org/SonOfGod?lang=eng" target="_blank">Jesus Christ</a>, Amen. <br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Sister Record <br />
<br />
All in! Now, and forever. :)Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-63497242334907756612015-10-05T11:48:00.000-07:002015-10-05T11:48:01.273-07:00New CompanionArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay <br /><br />This has been quite an eventful week. I have had five companions in one week. We sent Sister Powell home on Tuesday. It was really sad to say goodbye to her. But the sadness was short lived. I got to be companions with Sister Smith and Sister Martin for two days. It was delightful! Luckily they live with us so I didn't have to pack things up. We had some wonderful studies and had some great lessons. <br /><br />I was anxious to see who my new companion would be. On Thursday was our transfer meeting. I was thrilled to find out that Sister Risenmay would be coming from Austin to be my companion. We served near each other before I came here. Since she was coming down from Austin I stayed with Sister Angulo who was also waiting for her companion to come from Austin. <br /><br />Sister Risenmay and I are seriously almost the same person. Her and I are so much alike. In 24 hours we were already finishing each other's sentences. Ha ha. <br /><br />The moment we arrived together in Valley Hi we had dinner with our investigator, {H}. She is the most prepared person I have ever met. She's the one who we invited to be baptized after the general woman's meeting. She is currently preparing for that day. <br /><br />Watching General conference this weekend was a spiritually exhilarating experience. What blew my mind is that Sister Risenmay and I were having the exact same impressions. We felt so deeply of the need to be all in, all our lives. This mission is not just about now. We as daughters of God are preparing to be mothers. We must cling to the word of God. Because if we do not, we will not survive the storms of the world. As we cling to the rod of iron, we will be able to be the righteous mothers that the church needs. I am not afraid to raise my children in these last days, because I know in whom I have trusted. As was so beautifully taught in word and song, "All is well!" My trust and confidence in the Lord and his message has deepened. I will be faithful to him no matter what storm comes. I will not fear, only hope in eternal life. I will be a righteous mother. As Sister Risenmay and I talked in the car between sessions we were on fire. We realized that it's not just about now, it's about eternity. "Moments are the molecules that make up eternity". Neil A. Maxwell. <br /><br />How grateful I am for the restored gospel. I know it's true. <br /><br />In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. <br /><br />Love,<br />Sister Record <br />
<br />
<h2>
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1UszJSMU7aI/VhKuorOLy5I/AAAAAAAADP0/DTxblOn7Qdg/s1600/20151005-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1UszJSMU7aI/VhKuorOLy5I/AAAAAAAADP0/DTxblOn7Qdg/s320/20151005-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Sister Powell and Sister Record: <i>The day before Sister Powell left. Orange leaf selfies!</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YcRgzSAtrIo/VhKuoqh7w7I/AAAAAAAADP4/POhhal-QsaM/s1600/20151005-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YcRgzSAtrIo/VhKuoqh7w7I/AAAAAAAADP4/POhhal-QsaM/s320/20151005-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Sister Record, Sister Martin, Sister Smith: <i>In a temporary trio with Sister Martin and Sister Smith. After dropping Sister Powell off I stayed with them for two days before receiving my new companion. Sister Smith didn't know we were taking a picture. Ha ha! </i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OE87aZqLCqg/VhKuonvhbdI/AAAAAAAADP8/Mt58LbZsFow/s1600/20151005-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OE87aZqLCqg/VhKuonvhbdI/AAAAAAAADP8/Mt58LbZsFow/s320/20151005-3.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
Sister Record and Sister Risenmay: <i>My new companion! Sister Sara Risenmay. Her and I are practically the same person. She was companions with Sister Powell a while back. :)</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-15u-Si_jihQ/VhKupeuFeYI/AAAAAAAADQE/J7fm9WnACoE/s1600/20151005-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-15u-Si_jihQ/VhKupeuFeYI/AAAAAAAADQE/J7fm9WnACoE/s320/20151005-4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Sister Risenmay, Sister Fullam, Sister Smith, and Sister RecordJason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-67788991112551348872015-09-28T14:32:00.000-07:002015-09-28T14:32:09.270-07:00Strengthen Ye The Weak HandsArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Riley Powell<br />
<br />
Dearest family and friends, <br />
<br />
I'm not sure words can express the love and gratitude that I feel right now. It is so evident how the Lord divinely formulates and plans our lives. With every companion I've had it is evident that we were supposed to be together. There is something special about the companionship I'm in now. Before I was transferred and before I knew who my companion would be I knew that it was going to be important. Sister Powell is incredible. We have both grown tremendously in these past six weeks. We have truly become one. <br />
<br />
This weekend we had the marvellous opportunity to see the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2015/10?lang=eng" target="_blank">General Women's broadcast</a> at the church. The whole stake came to watch together. It was truly inspiring and uplifting to hear the words of the Lords chosen servants concerning the family, virtue, and charity. I loved the different talks that were given and the music shared. <br />
<br />
I definitely came away filled with the power of the Holy Ghost. But not just because it was great to receive divine instruction. There is a woman named {H} who is not a member, though her daughter's family are members in another area. When her grandsons visit, she takes them to church. Lately she has been attending on her own. We have never taught her, but she knows so much. She has spoken with missionaries in the past. She interacts easily with others. Last Sunday we invited her to attend the broadcast with us, and were thrilled to see her on Saturday when we arrived. As she sat with us it was easy to see that she was feeling the spirit and believed what was being spoken. During President Uchtdorf's talk I had a very distinct impression to ask her why she was not yet a member, then to invite her to be baptized. The impression grew as the talk continued. At the conclusion of the meeting I leaned over to her and asked her why she was not yet a member. She was overcome with emotion as she explained that she desired to be baptized, but felt inadequate. Sister Powell joined in. We invited her to prepare to be baptized now and she accepted. We testified that now is the time and that she is indeed ready. She affirmed that she also knew it was time. Again, we have never taught her. I don't know the last time she took lessons. But it was plain to see that she was ready for the invitation and the step into his gait. She committed to meet with us so that she can prepare to be baptized. We had a powerful conversation with her. We read Mosiah 18:9-10 <br />
<br />
"[You] are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life-- Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?" <br />
<br />
As we talked she seemed to gain greater courage to continue on this path. What an incredible moment! We parted ways after setting an appointment, but before she left she told us that we are strengthening her. We gave her a big hug. She is so elect! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KjyF_7ZYUF8/VgmwcxPDXkI/AAAAAAAADPM/lVGDrvE3V2E/s1600/20150928-4b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="337" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KjyF_7ZYUF8/VgmwcxPDXkI/AAAAAAAADPM/lVGDrvE3V2E/s400/20150928-4b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Record and Sister Jenkins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We had a couple exchanges this week. It was very rewarding to go with Sister Jenkins in her area and be led to so many people there. Things have been a little slower in that area, but we had several lessons and met some great people. It was a tender mercy for her to see such a spark. We both learned a lot and had some great talks about confidence in Christ. One lesson in particular was with a part member couple. We started off by testifying of Gods love. {A}, the one who isn't a member, began crying. She opened up to us about some things that have been hard for her, and how she doesn't know how to recognize answers to her prayers. We promised her that if she would open her ears and her heart, that God would answer her prayers right then in that lesson. She was genuine in her desire to listen and did so with real intent. It was amazing to watch the light go on in her eyes as we taught the restoration. By the end it was plain to see that she had received confirmation and now wanted to learn more. It was incredible. The Lord knows his children. I am in awe every day of how he uses us as his instruments to reach the hearts of those who's hands hang low. <br />
<br />
May I once again, share my favorite scripture. Isaiah 35:3-5 <br />
<br />
"Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; he will come and save you. Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped." <br />
<br />
May this be our mission, for the rest of our lives is my prayer. <br />
<br />
I know that the righteous have no need to fear. God lives. He loves us. He is omnipotent, and omniscient. Nothing else matters. As our faith is firmly rooted in Christ, we will not be moved by the heavy winds of the world. I love God and I love his work. I am forever faithful to him. <br />
<br />
In the name of <a href="http://jesuschrist.lds.org/SonOfGod?lang=eng" target="_blank">Jesus Christ</a>, amen. <br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Sister Record<br />
<br />
<h2>
</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GisF4M1NzA/VgmFRVrod4I/AAAAAAAADOQ/iw_BEYwoACo/s1600/20150928-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GisF4M1NzA/VgmFRVrod4I/AAAAAAAADOQ/iw_BEYwoACo/s320/20150928-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> Ha ha. I don't remember what was funny. But something was.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74iqaxuIPSg/VgmFRRfrf4I/AAAAAAAADOM/Bbouyho7Les/s1600/20150928-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74iqaxuIPSg/VgmFRRfrf4I/AAAAAAAADOM/Bbouyho7Les/s320/20150928-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Here is our tiny district after our district meeting last week. Left to right: Elder Trammel, Elder Reimschussel (Rhyme-shoe-soul), Sister Powell, Me, Sister Martin, Sister Smith.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sPJXB4_Jupk/VgmFRWmF3JI/AAAAAAAADOU/GiBZWWDdFsM/s1600/20150928-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sPJXB4_Jupk/VgmFRWmF3JI/AAAAAAAADOU/GiBZWWDdFsM/s320/20150928-3.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>After an incredible exchange with Sister Jenkins. There were so many miracles, and she is so sweet. It was neat to see her grow in such a short amount of time.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cTtyHLle_Ck/Vgmj1YT0uFI/AAAAAAAADOw/fLVEur2fILQ/s1600/20150928-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cTtyHLle_Ck/Vgmj1YT0uFI/AAAAAAAADOw/fLVEur2fILQ/s320/20150928-4.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Powell and I with Chelse. She was recently baptized and we had dinner with her last night. It was fantastic. :)</i></div>
<br />
<br />Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-75677864351523218432015-09-23T08:50:00.001-07:002015-09-23T08:50:25.478-07:00Preach My Gospel MissionaryArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />Companion: Sister Riley Powell<br /><br />What does it mean to be a <a href="https://www.lds.org/manual/preach-my-gospel-a-guide-to-missionary-service?lang=eng" target="_blank">Preach My Gospel</a> missionary? I have been learning so much about that recently. I remember studying <a href="https://www.lds.org/manual/preach-my-gospel-a-guide-to-missionary-service/what-do-i-study-and-teach?lang=eng" target="_blank">chapter 3</a> before my mission and attempting to teach the lessons in family home evening and struggling through it. I think I barely made it through one principle. I had known these truths all my life, yet I had no idea how to explain and articulate them. I felt as though my words were rocks. I didn't know how to teach things simply. I was grateful for those family home evenings where I was taught much more than I was actually teaching. Mom and Dad gently gave me some pointers on how I might explain that concept to someone who had never heard it before. My brothers powered through with amazing patience. They were probably itching to get out and do something else. I know I was. Those painful practices helped set a foundation for me that I have never forgotten.<br /><br />During that time I received a priesthood blessing. I was told that I would be able to teach <a href="https://www.mormon.org/beliefs/restoration" target="_blank">the message of the restoration</a> with power. That was a comforting reassurance. I still felt it was somewhat far-reaching. Now, more than a year later, I have felt the power of the restoration again and again coming out of the mouths of my companion and I. It now comes out like silky sand, rather than rocks. Going back to the question I started with, what does it mean to be a preach my gospel missionary? Maybe we can answer that with another question. What does it mean to be a disciple of Christ?<br /><br />It means that we follow him with all of our hearts. We are obedient to his commandments, and trust his promises. By trusting his promises, we are trusting the words of his chosen servants. Their words are within the scriptures, and we receive continued guidance through living prophets. Preach My Gospel is from living prophets. The reason I can now speak with power is because they are not my words.<br /><br />D&C 68:4-5<br />"And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation. Behold, this is the promise of the Lord unto you, O ye my servants."<br /><br />That is an amazing promise! I have been studying chapter 3 of Preach My Gospel more in depth with the intent of seeing how the chosen servants of God have phrased the teachings in each principle. I often quote phrases from chapter 3 of Preach My Gospel in teaching, and it has proven to be very powerful. To learn and know the doctrine is to follow Christ. I just cannot believe that it has taken me up to this point in my mission to fully trust Preach My Gospel. To do the study activities knowing that I will learn what it says I'll learn, and being willing to immediately apply it in companion study and throughout the day. Studying is one thing, but applying it is a much more important part of the equation. The conclusion That has sunk deep into my heart is to trust what is written, and allow what it to become written on my heart. That is faithfulness to God.<br /><br />Yesterday we had the opportunity to teach a fantastic family of 6. The Dad is not a member, and the older son was baptized about a year ago. We opened by asking them what evidence they have seen of Gods love. It sparked a great discussion. The 8 year old had some profound answers. It was amazing how powerful the spirit was there. The spirit taught the message of the restoration on such an individual level for that family. In the middle of our lesson we asked the Dad if he has ever considered being baptized by one holding <a href="https://www.mormon.org/faq/purpose-of-priesthood" target="_blank">the priesthood of God</a>. His response was somewhat surprising. He said that he has thought about it quite a bit. The one thing holding him back is that his parents are devout in their faith and he's afraid of what they might think. We talked about the end goal of having an eternal family and how that could be a reality for them as they become united in the restored gospel. We already love them!<br /><br />Also this week I had the privilege of going on an exchange with Sister Greenwood. They live in the same apartment as Sister Pito and her companion, so we loved seeing each other again and had so many things to laugh about. The exchange was incredible. I learned so much about inspiring rather than merely motivating, or dictating. We met a man who is well acquainted with members of our church and had a lot of questions. When we approached him he excitedly said, "Are you Mormons?". We affirmed that we are. He had a lot of questions about things like why we don't drink coffee, etc. Ha ha. He was really nice, and of a very inquiring nature. He claimed to be a scientist. We taught about the restoration as much as we could with his questions. At one point he asked a question about why bad things happen. A scripture from the Book of Mormon came to mind. The moment I pulled it out, he stopped me and said that he wants to hear what I really thought. He wanted to know what my opinion was, not just what someone told me. I started looking at the scripture again, but he stopped me again saying, "Is that what you think?" The spirit confirmed to me that I know the Book of Mormon is the word of God and I trust in its words with all my heart, because they are the words of God. I did not back down. I stated with confidence that this is exactly what I know and believe and that is how I will answer his question. He listened, and seemed to feel the sincerity. I had no response of my own, just the words of the prophets in The Book of Mormon. Which is more correct than any opinion on Earth. How grateful I am for this holy volume of scripture that is the convincing evidence that Joseph Smith is a true prophet. If one wants to be sure that he is not a false prophet, read <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm?lang=eng" target="_blank">the Boom of Mormon</a> with a sincere heart and real intent. (See <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/10.3-5?lang=eng#2" target="_blank">Moroni 10:3-5</a>)<br /><br />Sister Powell departs a week from Wednesday. This week is going to be an amazing week of miracles. I am so grateful for Sister Powell. Her and I have become great friends. We have become very unified.<br /><br />I love you all. I love this work. All in! <br /><br />Sincerely, <br />Sister Record<br />
<br />
<h2>
Pictures</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVvdMe1x6-k/VgA7H44fmdI/AAAAAAAADMs/_NVu5OyUXtQ/s1600/20150921-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVvdMe1x6-k/VgA7H44fmdI/AAAAAAAADMs/_NVu5OyUXtQ/s320/20150921-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I have discovered Chik-Fi-le. We all went spontaneously last Monday for some frozen lemonade. Left to right: Sister Powell, Sister Smith, me, Sister Martin</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p0jI2toGuzE/VgA7HwViF-I/AAAAAAAADMw/LXvF-tV9XD8/s1600/20150921-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p0jI2toGuzE/VgA7HwViF-I/AAAAAAAADMw/LXvF-tV9XD8/s320/20150921-1.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is after an exchange with Sister Greenwood. She is one of those<br />
people that I just became best friends with the moment we met. I don't<br />
know how we never knew each other on the mission until recently. She<br />
and Sister Clawson (the one photo bombing in the back) are the lead<br />
Sister training leaders, which is much like an assistant to the<br />
President. It was an AMAZING exchange!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rXrKAAeZZcw/VgA7H7l4lyI/AAAAAAAADMo/mlWyNsXGCNU/s1600/20150921-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rXrKAAeZZcw/VgA7H7l4lyI/AAAAAAAADMo/mlWyNsXGCNU/s320/20150921-3.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Clawson and Sister Powell after exchanges. :)</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tet4DMQUp94/VgCcnHKSWRI/AAAAAAAADNY/yvkuz-Jvhmc/s1600/20150921-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tet4DMQUp94/VgCcnHKSWRI/AAAAAAAADNY/yvkuz-Jvhmc/s320/20150921-5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I must face the fact that I am horrible at awkward angle selfies. But I had to share this picture. Sister Powell is getting her hair dyed at a members home today and this is our silly attempt at washing her hair in the bath tub. She did great! :) (Sister Powell and Sister Record)</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tpG_XxiLVew/VgCcnDVkZXI/AAAAAAAADNU/b8r3bw2oQzs/s1600/20150921-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tpG_XxiLVew/VgCcnDVkZXI/AAAAAAAADNU/b8r3bw2oQzs/s320/20150921-6.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is a much better one. Taken by Sister Powell. Ha ha!</i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-80698599798132531512015-09-14T12:18:00.000-07:002015-09-14T12:18:23.703-07:00I Am, Because of Him!Area: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Riley Powell<br />
<br />
I am a witness of the wounds in the hands and feet of Christ. Not because I have seen him physically, but because I know that he has graven me upon the palms of his hands. <i>I am</i>, because of <i>him</i>! The power of the Holy Ghost has born witness to my heart of the reality of <a href="https://www.mormon.org/beliefs/jesus-christ" target="_blank">the Savior</a> and his love. I do not need to see him with my eyes to know that he is the way to eternal life. I can feel the prints of the nails in my very being. I know that he lives, and that through him I have changed and can continue to change to draw closer to Heavenly Father. I bear witness that I am not the same person who left home a year and two months ago. That is all the evidence I need. <br />
<br />
"Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me." (1 Nephi 21:16)<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fHaMkWPJWv0/VfcRxCXI-YI/AAAAAAAADL4/XzmykXV_vDE/s1600/20150914-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fHaMkWPJWv0/VfcRxCXI-YI/AAAAAAAADL4/XzmykXV_vDE/s400/20150914-1.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Record and Sister Johnson</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had the opportunity to go on an exchange with Sister Johnson. She happens to be Sister Rowley's MTC companion. She came here to our area and we did not have a single appointment. Somehow we just knew that it was going to be a day full of miracles. I told her at the beginning of the exchange that this day was going to be a day of finding. It sure was! Everywhere we went we did not see a single person we had planned. None of them were home. The miracles came in "preaching by the way". We went to several apartment complexes that day, and we gave out more copies of <a href="https://www.mormon.org/beliefs/book-of-mormon" target="_blank">the Book of Mormon</a> than we have in several weeks. In one of the apartment complexes we saw a woman getting out of her car. We approached her and ended up teaching her the entire restoration, standing at the bottom of the stairs to her apartment. She was so open. As we asked her questions throughout, she said that she felt like we were sent to her by God and that he was trying to tell her something... That is right. We were sent by God, and he knows her heart. The spirit was very strong as we testified and as she accepted the invitation to act.<br />
<br />
We met so many people that day. All of them were preaching by the way miracles. If we are not careful, we can easily miss such opportunities. That night we met and taught a member who hasn't been to church in a while. He was very kind and assured us immediately before we said much that he still had a testimony. Since that seemed to be an important topic for him, we went with it. He told us how he had converted because of the influence of his wife. One night, he needed to know for himself if the church is true. He knelt in prayer and offered up the desires of his heart. At this point in the story, he choked up. The witness he had gained was something he could never deny. The feeling of the spirit entered into every feeling of his heart. The visit with him was powerful, and spirit filled. I hope that we all can stand firm in what we know, and never let the troubles of the world distract us from continuing in the truth. <br />
<br />
On Saturday we met a man across the street from where we were at. He had some neat hippie vans. We commented on them and he told us all about how he got them and where he's lived. It was fascinating. As we got to talking, we learned that he lived in Germany for quite a while and recently came here. He didn't have much of a concept of who God is, so we taught him about God. It is always a delight to teach someone about God. Here in Texas, most people have a strong belief in God. Texas is full of devoted Christians, which I love. It felt kind of like when Ammon was <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/18?lang=eng" target="_blank">teaching King Lamoni about God</a>. This man we talked with believed that there was a higher power. We testified that this higher power is God, our eternal Father and that we are his children. The conversation naturally flowed into <a href="https://www.mormon.org/beliefs/plan-of-salvation" target="_blank">the plan of salvation</a>, which he was very intrigued by. It never ceases to amaze me how the Lord leads us to those who are prepared to receive the gospel. We just have to act. Even if that means walking clear across the street to talk to someone who is in their car with their window rolled down. <br />
<br />
Just as I said in <a href="http://sister-record-tsam.blogspot.com/2015/09/we-have-power-to-choose.html" target="_blank">my last letter</a>, we truly have <a href="https://www.mormon.org/values/choice" target="_blank">the power to choose</a>. We have the power to choose to seek opportunities to share our testimonies, we have the power to choose to be happy, and to see the good despite whatever whirlwinds may be around us. Love is a choice. Confidence in Christ is a choice. Everything is a choice. And the power is within us to choose the right. This is called agency. Or the ability to know right from wrong and to choose for ourselves.<br />
<br />
I love God. I love His work. If there is one thing I want people to know when I interact with them, it is that I love God. Obedience is how we show our love to Him.<br />
<br />
Mom, Dad, Lorielle, Jason, Chris, Eric, Grandma and Grandpa Record, and other family members, I don't know if you know how dear you are to me. Words cannot begin to express it. I simply pray that the spirit will manifest to you what you mean to me. I am so grateful that we are family. I promise you that I will continue to stand for truth, and return with honor. Not just when I return to you, but when I return to my Father in Heaven. I am now and forever, all in!<br />
<br />
Sincerely, <br />
Sister RecordJason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-51758703661688258092015-09-08T13:49:00.001-07:002015-09-08T13:49:46.133-07:00We Have the Power to ChooseArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Riley Powell<br />
<br />
<i>Circumstances do not determine our destiny</i>. Our decisions determine our destiny. This week we have seen miracles occur in the midst of trying circumstances. There is power in choosing to serve and follow Christ despite difficulties.<br />
<br />
Something I've learned while running and exercising every morning is that a lot of the time, I'm really tired when I wake up and don't want to do it. Each morning I have a decision to make. Will I sweat, or will I be lazy? As I consistently choose to sweat, I reap the rewards of higher endorphin levels, more productive studies, greater energy to serve Gods children, clearer focus to serve my companion, and health and strength that keeps me going strong in this labor of love. Which is physical, emotional, and spiritual work. The decision has to be made every day. And it is a conscious decision. It is not necessarily easier the longer I do it, but my capacity to resist the temptation to quit increases. Every now and then there is a morning where I am pumped and energetic to get moving, but generally motivation follows action. Without out fail, every time I choose to work out I feel great and don't regret it in the slightest. The feeling it leaves me with is what gives me motivation to do it the next day.<br />
<br />
That is an illustration of how everything is in life. When we read the scriptures, are we choosing to learn? It has been a precious discovery for me to see that learning is a choice. When ever we back down from a difficult concept, that is our choice. Acquiring gospel knowledge is up to us.<br />
<br />
I am grateful for the gift of agency, which is the ability to choose right from wrong. We know what's right and have the power to choose and act according.<br />
<br />
It can be tempting at times to get down. But as "Preach My Gospel" says, "You should not become discouraged; discouragement will weaken your faith. If you lower your expectations, your effectiveness will decrease, your desire will weaken, and you will have greater difficulty following the Spirit." <br />
<br />
There were some moments this week where I could have been discouraged, but I chose not to be. In all honesty this was a fantastic week, full of miracles! And looking back I literally do not care about the moments that were trying. I'm actually grateful for them. The miracles we saw as a result of working hard with smiles on our faces and love for God and his children overpower and hint of selfishness, or possible discouragement. I know that the Lord is preparing his children to receive the gospel. I don't just believe it, I know it. We are here to find them. And find them we will.<br />
<br />
We have had many preaching by the way miracles. This area is beginning to bloom in such a beautiful way. There is so much work to be done and it has been incredible to see the hand of the Lord lead us to so many. In our area book we had the name of a man who had not been contacted in years. We decided to give him a try. When we went over the man who we asked for did not live there. He introduced himself as Jerry. It turns out that he had become hardened through life experiences, particularly the death of a loved one. He had almost given up on God. But as we read from the Book of Mormon and testified of Gods plan for us and our families he brightened a bit. It seemed that hope entered into his soul for the first time in a long time. He wasn't quite open enough to commit to a return appointment, but he accepted a Book of Mormon and we prayed with him. It was after the prayer that the spirit was so strong. We were maybe there for five minutes. But let me tell you, that was a molecule of eternity. It seemed that whole world stopped just for his moment. God hears the quiet pleadings of our hearts. He sent us to this man at just the right time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K2ToPRXG3kU/Ve9JFvhDtII/AAAAAAAADLE/DXN7JaJMIdU/s1600/20150907-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K2ToPRXG3kU/Ve9JFvhDtII/AAAAAAAADLE/DXN7JaJMIdU/s320/20150907-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Melissa Rowley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Look at Sister Rowley! Isn't she beautiful? I am so proud of all that she is becoming, she has grown so much!<br />
<br />
I love you all! Sorry this is so short. We don't have a whole lot of time today... :)<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Sister Record<br />
<br />
All in!Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-80559063253850093572015-08-31T17:05:00.000-07:002015-08-31T17:05:49.048-07:00A Beautiful Day!Area: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Riley Powell<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p1GMgZW10Ys/VeTko6z3qsI/AAAAAAAADKM/9PZxaZoAjRw/s1600/20150831_01a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p1GMgZW10Ys/VeTko6z3qsI/AAAAAAAADKM/9PZxaZoAjRw/s320/20150831_01a.jpg" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Record and Sister Mary Harker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What a beautiful day to be alive!<br />
<br />
Guess what! Mary Harker, Aunt Juanita's Sister is in one of the wards I'm serving in. We were at the church for a correlation meeting and she was in the hall. I walked up to her to meet her just like I've been doing with all the other members, when she said in a tone that made my mind halt to a stop, "Sister Record, long time no see." I looked at her and thought for a split second that she might have been my cousin Stephanie. I know that's silly because their age is quite different, but that's what I thought for a moment. I replied after some thought, "Wait. Do I know you?" She responded that I do, and she knew my mother, Sheri very well and had grown up with her. She explained who she was and that she has been to our home in Salem before. That was very exciting to meet her and realize who she is. Though I only have a vague memory of her visit. She has those characteristic eyes that all of Juanita's family has. Her daughter is about Eric's age and we're kind of like cousins since we have the same Uncle. Ha ha! Small world!<br />
<br />
Mom, Happy, happy Birthday last week. I wish I could have sent you a picture like I did Dad. I sure did think about you this week and hope you had a good one. :) Chris, I can't BELIEVE you're 18! Happy Birthday yesterday. I hope you haven't died from sky diving yet. ;) I love you both!<br />
<br />
This week we had a Sister's Conference. It lasted all day and was for each Sister missionary in the mission. It was an absolutely delightful experience. President Slaughter spoke first. He got up and told us we're beautiful. After making his point, he told us to stand up if we're beautiful. Each of us did. This moment was powerful. The one time I have ever seen my mission President cry is when he looked at us standing and said, "That is right... You are beautiful". He doesn't like us to quote him, but he said with power and authority that this is one thing we can quote from him. "I am beautiful because my mission President said." Not only that, but my Dad said so too. :)<br />
<br />
After the amazing conference we got to go to the temple. It was so glorious to step inside and do a session there. I haven't been for almost a year. I went at the beginning of my mission. It was so refreshing to go back. I love the temple so much.<br />
<br />
I had a touching experience in giving a talk this Sunday. A beautiful young woman about 13 years old gave what must have been her first talk. I was deeply moved as I listened to her read the words of an apostle with nerves in her voice. At the end she bore a simple testimony. I watched the expression of her Mother which was fixed, confident and unmoving. When it was my turn to speak I felt impressed to thank this young woman for her beautiful testimony and to express how touched I was by the eyes of her Mother, who then began to cry as I said that. I too got emotional as I said how grateful I am for the Mothers who teach us to be stripling warriors. Some day that young woman will truly understand who she is and her testimony will be sure and certain. I yearn for all the youth to see their divine potential as covenant Israel. As members of Christ's church, sometimes we don't fully realize the power of knowing what we know. The Lord is gathering his people, and we have a part to play in that.<br />
<br />
This week a profound realization sunk deep into my heart. All of the miracles I have seen, all the personal growth and change I have experienced, and the things I have learned are not a result of my mission. They are not a result of my family or my companions. Nor have I changed because of inspiring leaders. All these influences have been wonderful, and are very dear to me. They have surely impacted my life. But they are not what has changed me. The Savior has changed me. Yes, this mission is perfect for me. But I could be anywhere in the world and learn just as much and change just as much because it is only through the Savior that I have grown. It's all a choice. Just as Sister Slaughter taught us a few transfers ago that it's more about "I'll be what you want me to be" than "I'll go where you want me to go". A change of behavior is not enough. It will not last.<br />
<br />
With all the surety of my heart, I declare that my steadiness, faithfulness to God, my love for Him and His work, and the change of heart that I have felt is not dependent upon my mission. Though coming on a mission is the best choice I've ever made and I wouldn't trade it for the world. I know without a shadow of a doubt that if for whatever reason, my family were to fall off the deep end, (which I know you won't) I would not and could not be swayed. The attitude of my companion does not influence my obedience to the Lord. If an admired leader in the church were to slip up it would not bother me. I know who I am. I know who God is. Through Jesus Christ, I am saved. He has redeemed my soul from hell. I give glory to him forever and know that my spiritual growth is a choice to follow the Savior and rely completely on him.<br />
<br />
I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is His kingdom on the Earth. It is true and perfect. Jesus Christ stands at the head of it. My testimony cannot be moved by the imperfections of man. He lives. I am, because of him.<br />
<br />
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Sister Record<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Pictures</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd1nadwC2PI/VeTjSyNYUII/AAAAAAAADJo/ZP8ANh17cmU/s1600/20150831_07.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd1nadwC2PI/VeTjSyNYUII/AAAAAAAADJo/ZP8ANh17cmU/s320/20150831_07.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>All of the Sister Missionaries in the Texas San Antonio mission</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-etgGZqlTFTY/VeTjQ_66-YI/AAAAAAAADJc/RoabWZ2KQT8/s1600/20150831_06.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-etgGZqlTFTY/VeTjQ_66-YI/AAAAAAAADJc/RoabWZ2KQT8/s320/20150831_06.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Powell and I. She is a fantastic leader!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fb4eP5Wfe4I/VeTjKkQLL1I/AAAAAAAADJE/hULeGHaPt4k/s1600/20150831_03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fb4eP5Wfe4I/VeTjKkQLL1I/AAAAAAAADJE/hULeGHaPt4k/s320/20150831_03.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Powell and I in front of the San Antonio temple; and Sister "Master-Photo-Bomber" in the background (Sister Pito) Ha ha!</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f7qC06rdV0w/VeTjOiIVA-I/AAAAAAAADJU/_-wPPbYTNGY/s1600/20150831_05.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f7qC06rdV0w/VeTjOiIVA-I/AAAAAAAADJU/_-wPPbYTNGY/s320/20150831_05.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Just before the camera shot I made a weird face at Sister Pito. She made one back, but we busted up laughing after 2 seconds.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EZpciJRtDYQ/VeTjMjwJmVI/AAAAAAAADJM/N0MSH0UY25U/s1600/20150831_04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EZpciJRtDYQ/VeTjMjwJmVI/AAAAAAAADJM/N0MSH0UY25U/s320/20150831_04.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sister Pito and I! I'm pretty sure we're actual sisters. Or maybe
cousins? Yes, I have a Samoan cousin. As she always says, I've just lost
color.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LnBqefQ7-9U/VeTjTsTMraI/AAAAAAAADJs/Jw-mXgtcnMc/s1600/20150831_08.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LnBqefQ7-9U/VeTjTsTMraI/AAAAAAAADJs/Jw-mXgtcnMc/s320/20150831_08.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>A bigger view of the San Antonio temple. Sister Record and Sister Powell</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T2oshnfULY8/VeTjHNajRpI/AAAAAAAADI0/oEdhcJBAjHY/s1600/20150831_02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T2oshnfULY8/VeTjHNajRpI/AAAAAAAADI0/oEdhcJBAjHY/s320/20150831_02.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>All the San Antonio Sister missionaries at the end of the Sister's conference</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mkQVakPjTWw/VeTjIngpTMI/AAAAAAAADI8/__oaDRIV928/s1600/20150831_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mkQVakPjTWw/VeTjIngpTMI/AAAAAAAADI8/__oaDRIV928/s320/20150831_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Mary Harker and I (She's practically my Aunt)</i></div>
Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-39944459162163529152015-08-25T07:10:00.003-07:002015-08-25T07:10:50.916-07:00Transfer to San AntonioArea: Valley Hi/Heritage<br />
Companion: Sister Riley Powell<br />
<br />
I have officially been transferred away from Georgetown. It will forever own a piece of my heart, but I know that this is where I need to be. I am back in San Antonio covering two wards again. Valley Hi and Heritage. Interestingly enough I came to Valley Hi on an exchange in my second transfer when I was still in training. It is completely different than where I just came from. I have grown to love the Austin area, but I'm growing to love it here too. The moment I got here, it was reminded me of Converse, my first area. My new companion is Sister Riley Powell, and we are both serving as sister training leaders.<br />
<br />
We live with some other sisters. Sister Smith, who I lived with before in Converse, and her companion Sister Martin. :)<br />
<br />
This week has been wonderful. I love sharing the gospel, and I love telling people about the Book of Mormon! <a href="https://www.mormon.org/beliefs/book-of-mormon" target="_blank">The Book of Mormon</a> is the tool by which Israel is being gathered. While Sister Powell and I were in a smaller neighborhood we came across a man who has Christian roots and is very firm in where he stands. As we shared with him the Book of Mormon my heart sang with joy at declaring these glad tidings. This son of God had the opportunity to accept one of the most precious gifts from our Heavenly Father, another testament of his son Jesus Christ, untainted by the apostasy. He did not accept the Book, nor the invitation to learn more. But someday he may. I LOVE testifying of the restored gospel and of Jesus Christ. It doesn't phase me in the slightest when one chooses to reject the offer. Yes, it does make me sad to know what they are truly rejecting, but my love for God and for his work overpowers any hint of discouragement. I know that our divine commission is to find those who are prepared.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Gathering of Israel</b></div>
<div align="center">
<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="270" id="flashObj" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=1777236909001&linkBaseURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lds.org%2Fmedia-library%2Fvideo%2F2011-03-101-gathering-of-israel%3Flang%3Deng&playerID=710849472001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAApYNoccE~,xDmRWfqDlPhbhwoOkZ1F_TSoe20nAtRQ&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="videoId=1777236909001&linkBaseURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lds.org%2Fmedia-library%2Fvideo%2F2011-03-101-gathering-of-israel%3Flang%3Deng&playerID=710849472001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAApYNoccE~,xDmRWfqDlPhbhwoOkZ1F_TSoe20nAtRQ&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="480" height="270" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" swLiveConnect="true" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object></div>
<br />
The Lord is gathering his elect from the four corners of the Earth. I know that to be true as I have seen some of his most elect come into the waters of baptism and change their lives.<br />
<br />
I have seen it in more subtle ways. Such as 20 copies of the Book of Mormon lasting us for six weeks when we must have passed out 4 a day. I have seen it in the eyes of a child as their perspective of Heavenly Father changes. Others may not have come all the way, but their lives were touched in one way or another. I've seen it in the growth and change of my companions and the things we learn together.<br />
<br />
I loved meeting the people in the wards we're serving. I've learned that it is silly to sit back and wait for people to come get to know us. It is much more proactive to get up and go get to know them. I will forever live by that. I will not wait to be acted upon, I will act. "And men are instructed sufficiently that they know good from evil... Wherefore, the Lord gave unto man that he should act for himself..." (2 Nephi 2:5, 16) There are wonderful people here whom I feel privileged to serve and work in harmony with. The work of salvation is for all of us. Members are missionaries too.<br />
<br />
In our mission we do mission studies. Meaning that occasionally President Slaughter asks us to study a particular set of scriptures, or a particular subject. He'll usually give a time frame, and ask questions throughout. It is always very enlightening. Our most recent mission study has been on the <a href="https://www.lds.org/youth/for-the-strength-of-youth?cid=YS-M-youthstrength&lang=eng" target="_blank">"For the strength of Youth"</a> pamphlet. He invited us to highlight words that refer to agency and to notice the emphasis the brethren place in standing alone. I really gained a lot out of this study. Here are some thoughts I have had:<br />
<br />
"Though the world is getting more and more tumultuous with the adversary working in the hearts of man, righteousness is growing. The light of <a href="http://jesuschrist.lds.org/SonOfGod?lang=eng" target="_blank">the gospel of Jesus Christ</a> is stronger than it has ever been. Members of the church will cease holding the iron rod, preferring the great and spacious building, and allowing themselves to be blinded by the philosophies of men. But Jesus Christ's Church is perfect and will never fall. The priesthood will never be taken from the Earth again.<br />
<br />
How will we be an influence for good not just in the world, but within the church? It begins with the strength of youth. As children of the covenant we have a divine and sacred responsibility to assist in gathering lost Israel. We were chosen before the world began to be members of Christ's church and to spread the gospel to the world. The Lord has great trust in the youth and often calls upon them to carry out his great work.<br />
<br />
If I had understood this when I was a teenager I would have looked at myself, others, and the world much differently. I'm grateful for parents and leaders who helped me learn who I am. We have a responsibility to help the youth see their divine nature. Many of them do not understand who they are as covenant Israel. They are learning and trying to grow in a complex world. One way that we can be an influence for good within the church is by teaching the youth that they are noble and great. We must show them through example how to gain a testimony for themselves. Through this study, my vision of the youth of Zion has changed. I know who I am. I can see the divine nature of who we are. I feel a great responsibility to encourage and strengthen the youth in word and deed. To shine bright, so that they too can be gathered themselves, then assist in gathering the rest of lost Israel. Because that is what we were born to do."<br />
<br />
There are three things I want y'all to never forget.<br />
<br />
<b>One:</b> The success is in the invitation. <b> </b><br />
<b>Two:</b> There are <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/84.88?lang=eng#87" target="_blank">angels among us</a>. <b> </b><br />
<b>Three:</b> <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/come-join-with-us?lang=eng" target="_blank">Doubt your doubts</a> before you doubt your faith.<br />
<br />
I love you all!<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Sister RecordJason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0San Antonio, TX, USA29.4241219 -98.49362819999998928.5394974 -99.784521699999985 30.3087464 -97.2027347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7748414972020262077.post-26489794385588568152015-08-19T08:45:00.002-07:002015-08-19T08:45:51.844-07:00Angels Among UsArea: Serenada/Georgetown<br />Companion: Sister Jessy Montclair<br />Companion: Sister Rachel Bills<br /><br />It's good to be in a trio again! It feels like Sister Bills never left. :D She is amazing! Somehow I knew at the end of last transfer that we weren't done being companions. Now, four weeks later, she came back to Serenada, and it feels like she's been here the whole transfer.<br /><br />This has been a beautiful tender week as Sister Montclair prepares to depart. She is handling it so well! It's neat to hear all the words of wisdom she has for us. It's almost like she is sharing her dying words with us... ;) Very profound!<br /><br />If there is one thing I've learned on my mission, it is that Angels are among us. I have always been somewhat aware of the angels in my life. I learned that if we look close enough, we see angels everyday. Perhaps not physically, but in each blessing we acknowledge, in each breath we take, in the strength we receive to do what is beyond our own capacity. We can miss it if we're not being grateful. As a missionary I am acutely aware of the Heavenly help we receive day to day. The Lord is so aware of his children and truly does lead us to them.<br /><br />Several transfers ago when I was with Sister Rowley, we were driving and felt distinctly impressed to go to a street that we hadn't planned. We didn't even really know where we were. We just drove there, parked in front of a house, saw a man outside and talked to him. He had really sad eyes, and said he wasn't interested. He was somewhat bitter towards God. We looked him in the eyes and with power told him that we had been sent from God, who is aware of him and his circumstances. We expressed to him the love God has for him and left him a card. His eyes changed a little. We felt no reason to stay on that street, so we got back in our car and left. I have pondered on that experience again and again. How that man must have needed a confirmation that Heavenly Father is aware of him. I can only wonder about the pleadings of his heart.<br /><br />We are instruments in the Lords hands. If we look at a violin, we see that there are many elements to the instrument. There's a bridge, the strings, the bow, etc. All of these combine to give it the ability to create something amazing. However, a violin cannot play itself. In order for it to produce the music it is inwardly capable of producing, there must be a master musician. This master musician has the power and ability to fine-tune us, polish and dust our surfaces, and fix when we break. As an authorized servant of the Lord, the music in me is the music of the restoration. We are the message, we are the music. Jesus Christ is the master musician. He is my strength and the author of my faith. As we lose ourselves in the service of God, we find ourselves.<br /><br />At the end of a lesson we were teaching a woman named {D}, she recognized the spirit and wanted to understand it better. We asked her if she believes that we were sent by God. She thought for a moment then said "Yes I do." She proceeded to explain that she believes there are angels on Earth. She looked at us and said, "You never know what form they'll appear in". I found that very interesting that she would say that. It's true, you never know what form they'll appear in. My mother is an angel in my life. She valiantly raised an army of stripling warriors. She painfully watched when at times, we were injured or lost, but never ceased to teach us that "if [we] did not doubt God would deliver [us]" (Alma 56:47) Without her Heavenly wisdom that she has acquired through much prayer, I would not be who I am today.<br /><br />Another angel in my life is my Grandmother Rowley who gave me some of the most meaningful advice before my mission. "Don't be afraid". Those words come to my mind often.<br /><br />It is a humbling thing to bear the mantle of a missionary, who's calling is literally "to declare [his] word like unto angels of God." (D&C 42:6) I love this work, and wouldn't trade it for the world. I took upon myself his name when I was baptized, I put his name on my chest when I became a missionary, and on my heart his name will remain forevermore. I love the Lord. Someday I may not be a full-time missionary, but I will always be an instrument in his hands in gathering Israel. Because that's what I was born to do.<br /><br />This is my testimony and my witness. I witness that God lives and loves us. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.<br /><br />Love,<br />Sister Record<br />Jason A Recordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00652089932748664779noreply@blogger.com0Georgetown, TX, USA30.6332618 -97.67798419999996930.6332618 -97.677984199999969 30.6332618 -97.677984199999969