The Last Letter
The last baptism:
One day Jose Hernandez was fasting and praying for God's
help. The help he desired was for his family to feel the joy of the Gospel that
he feels. He being the only member of the church in his family. He joined the
church when he lived with his aunt for a couple of years in Wyoming and now he
is back in California with his family. A couple of days after this fast for
God's guidance his prayer was answered. At a service project he met Sister
Anderson, a senior missionary in our zone. Sister Anderson then Inroduced
Jose to me. I got his number and after a couple of texts he was attending the
singles ward. I had no idea that something so simple would change my mission
the way it did. We first taught his cousin Ricky, who was a less active member.
After a spiritual experience with the Book of Mormon he has been active since.
We were then introduced to Jose's Sister Anabell. A little after a month she
entered the waters of baptism and Jose was able to baptize her. Just last week
we were able to see Jr. another member of their family get baptized. What made
his baptism even more special was seeing Ricky a newly ordained priest baptize
his cousin. Miracles have abounded in that family. Not to mention that they
have been our strongest support in teaching others. The hand of the Lord is so
evident in how this all happened. I love this family and I truly believe that
they are one of the reasons I came on my mission. I am also grate
This wasn't supposed to be my last baptism. There was
supposed to be one more on Saturday. Roman was so close, but some last minute
opposition came. I feel his baptism will come soon and It will be a great day.
The Departing Devotional
It was odd seeing the missionaries I left the MTC with in
the same place. We broke our fast together on Sunday when we were preparing for
our departing devotional. I was excited to see the people who I have to come to
love. So many thoughts came to my mind as I looked at the people who I had
taught scattered throughout the chapel. I was worried about what to say. When I
got to the pulpit the words came and I felt it was what I needed to say. I
loved reuniting with two years worth of people I have come so close to. I took
pictures with most every family that came. It was an experience that gave me a
sense of closure for my mission experience.
I know that this mission is where God sent me. I do not have
a doubt of that. I also know that this truly is the Lord's work. Meaning, that
it hasn't been Elder Roos's work. As long as I gave my heart and a willing mind
I have been able to stand still and see the Salvation of God in so many lives.
I have also learned that I have many weaknesses. I have learned that those are
made strengths through the grace of God. I learned that Satan is the master
manager of my past and God is the master manager of my future. I fell short of
the glory of God. In fact I fell short of the glory of an Elder at times, but I
my mission has been made whole through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I love my
Father in heaven and I love my Savior. This mission has not only effected my
life, but it has effected my eternity and the eternity of others as well.
love always,