Final Week

Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott

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.

There are a few scriptures that come to my mind as I conclude my full-time mission.

"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..."
Romans 1:15-16

"...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

"For behold, this is my work and my glory; to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man."
Moses 1:39

"And I was led by the spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which I should do."
1 Nephi 4:6

"...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."
Alma 26:16

"...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."
Alma 26:11

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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)

Love,
Your sister missionary, Sister Record

P.S. See you soon!

Photos

Sister Scott and I with the Rothstein's. He is one of our ward
mission leaders.

She also has a really good sad face... She doesn't want me to leave. ;)

Fun at Chick-Fil-A. Sister Scott has a great smolder, doesn't she? Ha ha!

Because of Him

Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott

It's official, I've passed 18 months... I can hardly believe I've been on my mission this long.

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.

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)

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.

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,

"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."
Moroni 10:32

Because of Him

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.

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.

Sincerely,
Sister Record

Where's the Dumpster

Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott

Dear family and friends,

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

{M} is still doing very well. She is progressing and has a wonderful understanding and comprehension of what we teach her.

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.

I love you all. Make it a great week!

Sincerely,
Sister Record

Be Brave

Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott

My dearest family and friends,

God is so good.

"...In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established."
2 Corinthians 13:1

"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"
Ether 5:4

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

There were moments when I felt it and I knew,
Something amazing was happening within my soul,
And nothing could hold back what was inside me.

I let it move me, and lead my heart,
I chose not to be afraid to let myself believe in who I am,
I have become brave.

I am brave!
I let it come through and define me,
I was meant to be brave.

Each day I got my shoes, grabbed my courage, opened the door
And saw myself in a way I'd never seen before, and
Heaven was there beside me.

In the moments when the walls seemed way too high,
I trusted my instincts, prayed and started to climb,
I remembered, I have always been brave.

I am brave!
I let it come through and define me,
I was meant to be brave...

When I thought I couldn't
I was strong enough though I had fallen,
I remembered the words of my mother,
And was bold enough to stand and be... Brave.

There are moments when I will feel it and know,
Something amazing is yet to happen within my soul,
And nothing can hold back what's inside me.


I love you all! And look forward to reuniting with you soon. But for now, Sister Scott and I have work to do.

Love, your sister missionary,
Sister Record

So Great a Cause!

Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott

Dear family and friends,

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 the gospel of Jesus Christ 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.

This doctrine is stated again and again in the scriptures.

"...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.
"...He that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved."
(2 Nephi 31:13, 15)

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.

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.

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 the Book of Mormon, 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.

Testimony from an Apostle of Jesus Christ

May we remember the words of the prophet Joseph Smith who said,

"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)

I am ready to preach the gospel!

Love,
Sister Record

Pictures

This was a very cold night. I think the chill is beginning to set in here in Texas. :)

 

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.

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)

Sister Pito and I

The Sister's at MLC! Sister Risenmay and I got to be companions again. :)

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott

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.

President Slaughters vision for 2015:
 1. Become fully consecrated
 2. Bury your weapons of rebellion
 3. Develop a pure heart.

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.

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)

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."

"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)

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.

I love God. It is him whom I serve. I will gladly give all that I have and am to build up his kingdom.

Sincerely,
Sister Record

Pictures

One week felt like way too long. We had a glorious reunion. The
best Christmas present I could ever imagine was to see Sister Risenmay
again.

Sister Scott and I in front of the Christmas tree. We had an amazing Christmas!

Christmas Eve at the mission home.

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!

The San Antonio missionary conference with Elder Piño. He's sitting
next to President Slaughter. I'm standing behind and between President
Slaughter and Elder Piño.

 

We had a wonderful discussion on the different names of Christ, the
doctrine of judgment, the noble and great ones, and the meaning of
Christmas. I love President and Sister Slaughter. They are so
inspired!

Final Transfer!

Area: Leon Valley/9th Ward
Companion: Sister Nicholette Scott

My dear family and friends,

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

"For many are called, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:14)

This is my deep and abiding testimony.

I am ready to sprint to the finish line now, and for eternity. All in!

Love,
Sister Record

Pictures

This is one of the cutest dogs I've met on my mission. He wasn't
annoying... most are. He randomly lifted up his paws and held them on
my hand for the longest time.

The Ayala family. Brother Ayala is one of our ward mission leaders,
and we absolutely love them!

This was one of the hardest goodbyes. We both wanted to be
companions for one more transfer, but we understand that the Lord
knows best and has another wise plan in mind.

Sister Fullam, Sister Risenmay and I. We were a trio for three days
after Sister Fullam sent Sister Bills home.

This is my new companion. Sister Nicholette Scott. She has been serving for 8 months, and is from Las Vegas, Nevada.

Miracle Street

Area: Valley Hi/Heritage
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay

Dearest family and friends,

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

He says, "I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:"
(John 10:14, 27)

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.

"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.
"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail--
"But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.
"...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 true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ..."
(Moroni 7:45-48, emphasis added)

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.

Love,
Sister Record

A Savior is Born

Area: Valley Hi/Heritage
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay

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.

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.

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.

A Savior is Born

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.

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!

{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.

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.

I love you all!

Sincerely,
Sister Record

All in!

Pictures

No Rotten Lemons

Area: Valley Hi/Heritage
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay

My dear family and friends,

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.

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.

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".

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.

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.

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.

Sincerely,
Sister Record

Pictures

After dinner with the Thuesons. They are fantastic!

A beautiful Thanksgiving dinner layout at a part member families
home. Yes, we had two Thanksgiving dinners. I was stuffed after the
first one, and we had about an hour between that one and our next one.
Luckily my stomach expanded to fit more the second time around.

We had great fun visiting with Cathy on Thanksgiving day. We were
given a lot of left over food, so we made a plate and shared some with
her.

It's starting to get cold here in Texas. :)

Sister Record and Sister Risenmay at Urgent Care. Sister Record is doing much better.

 Sister Record, St Nick and Sister Risenmay

Umm... St Nicks.

Anytime, Anywhere

Area: Valley Hi/Heritage
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay
 

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.

For example, earlier this week Sister Risenmay and I had just finished weekly planning. It was about 3:00 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.

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.

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 all places we are in." (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.

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. Last Sunday one of the wards had a primary program, and he came again. 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. 

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.

I am grateful for you all!

Sincerely,

Sister Record

Pictures

Hurrah for Israel!

Area: Valley Hi/Heritage
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay

Hurrah for Israel!

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.

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!

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 Jesus Christ, 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)

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.

{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.

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 the Book of Mormon 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.

I love you all, and hope you have a great week!

Love,
Sister Record

Pictures

This is a sister we visit on occassion. We love her!

I know it's a little early for Christmas, but we saw this sign in
Kneaders and thought it was cute.

Oh, and do you remember the shoes I came out with? I am quite proud of
their wear and tear. I still have them, and I think I'll keep them
forever... (It's kind of gross if you look too closely.)

Mission Pearls

Area: Valley Hi/Heritage
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay

It's another bright day, here in the TSAM!

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!

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.

{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!

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.

2 Nephi 2:8
"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..."

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,

"..Be strong, fear not. Behold your God will come...
"Then shall [their] eyes be opened, and [their] ears shall be unstopped"
(Isaiah 35:3-5)

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.

"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.

"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."
(2 Nephi 32:19-20 see also vs. 17-18)

They just need a guiding hand. Don't ever give up on those whose faith is weak.
"...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)

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:

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.
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.
3. Remember Ammonihah
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.
5. My family is eternal. Both my current, and my future family. I will never settle for less.

I love you all! Have a wonderful week.

Sincerely,
Sister Record

Pictures

Last Monday we went and got shakes at Tealicious.

Before MLC us, the zone leaders, and Sister Smith went to the
temple (Sister Smith was invited to come since it's her last
transfer). We got up super early so that we could have time to go.

Sister Schoen! She was the relief society president in the Converse
ward when I was a brand new missionary. I see her every MLC in the
institute office.

It was absolutely amazing to go counsel and learn at MLC (Mission Leadership Council).

There were a lot of sisters at MLC this time because President
Slaughter invited a few who are on their last transfer.

We were all in the MTC together!

Everything is definitely bigger in Texas

Spent some time at the Mercado today.

Will You Go With Me?

Area: Valley Hi/Heritage
Companion: Sister Sara Risenmay

Dearest Family and Friends,

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.

Once again, my heart is full as I reflect on the past week. The miracles never cease, nor will they ever.

{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.

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 Mormon message, "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 Jesus Christ 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.

Our True Identity

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.

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.

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.

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!" (How Firm a Foundation, 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.

Sincerely,
Sister Record

Pictures

We volunteer at the food bank every week as a zone. It's really fun!

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.

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!

The district.. :) Ha ha.

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!

Sister Record and Sister Risenmay: It's Halloween, and a beautiful day for bikes!