We have done all we can the last couple of weeks to find people to teach! We have spent a lot of time being out and about with the people and knocking a lot of doors. That's how most of Tuesday went, until later on we had dinner with a recent convert and her family, and then a meeting with the stake high councilor.
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| A super nice lady made us lemonade on a hot day. |
Wednesday was much of the same as well. In the evening, we had a lesson with one of our friends and we're helping him recognize and understand the Spirit in his life. That is one of my favorite things to teach people and help people with. I have loved the experiences I've had feeling the Spirit and the influence that it has been in my mission- it truly is one of the greatest gifts God has given us.
On Thursday we had mission conference. A lot of it was on the use of smart phones and the safeguards using them and such, but President Henrie gave a bomb training on the little things and how they can make a huge difference. We watched some clips of President Oak's talk from General Conference titled, "Small and Simple Things". One thing that was emphasized is how lives can be changed by these small and seemingly insignificant choices. President Oak's says "The only preparation for that one profound decision which can change a life, or even a nation, is those hundreds and thousands of half-conscious, self defining, seemingly insignificant decisions made in private." I've seen how these small decisions can make big differences! I also got to see some missionaries for the last time before hitting the pavement. It was good to catch up a little bit with some old companions and mission friends.
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| Mission Conference |
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| Car inspections |
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| Elder Howell and Elder Martin (Mijo #3) |
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| Elder Kerr and Elder Martin (Mijo #1) |
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| Elder Maynes, Elder Martin, and Elder Hadley |
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| Elder Leishman and Elder Martin |
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| Elder Martin and Elder Mekhaeil |
We were able to have a quick little lesson with Priscilla and Samira as well, and they're still on track for their baptisms!
On Friday we did some more morning and early afternoon knocking, before doing an exchange with the assistants. I went with Elder Maynes in Stevenson Ranch and Castaic. It was a good little exchange with him. We had a good knockout and talked to some good people and picked up an investigator on the way. It started to sprinkle a little bit as well which is weird. This weather is as bipolar as Utah's. We saw a guy broke down in a left turn lane, so we went to help him push, and he just asked us to give him a jump start start, so we did. He told us since we were the only ones to stop and help, he was gonna come to the Mormon church. We drove off, and thought the car he had might not make it, so we turned back around and found him broke down again at the next light. We jumped him again, and he said "Next time you see me, I'll be a Mormon!" Haha, it was hilarious. It was good to learn from Elder Maynes as well, he's a good Elder!
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| On exchanges with Elder Maynes |
Saturday was yet another full day of knocking. In the evening we had a really good lesson with Samira and Priscilla. They asked a lot of questions which is good, because it shows their intent and seeking of truth! We had dinner with good ol' Sister Wallace. I can't even describe how...awesome it was. She is an elderly lady who cooks all day for us. She's so kind. And then she takes food to her neighbors and when we offer to do anything, she won't let us because she doesn't want to inconvenience us. She's so nice. Apparently something happens every time the missionaries come over, and this time, her stove top was ticking and gas was coming out, she wouldn't let us help her, but she had us eating while she tried to fix it. What a lady.
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| Sister Wallace, fixing her stove |
Sunday was really good. Church was awesome! Unfortunately, none of our friends were able to make it to church. The speakers were awesome and so was Sunday school. In priesthood quorum, the talk by President Oak's was emphasized again. It must be important to do the little, seemingly insignificant things. Another favorite part of the talk is this: "Those seemingly insignificant private decisions include how we use our time, what we view on television and the internet, what we read, the art and music with which we surround ourselves at work and at home, what we seek for entertainment, and how we apply our commitment to be honest and truthful. Another seemingly small and simple thing is being civil and cheerful in our personal interactions. None of these desirable small and simple things will lift us to great things unless they are practiced consistently and continuously."
I know that as we do these things, we can make a big difference, as we do them consistently!
We had the time to Skype our moms as well, which was awesome to do! It's always great seeing my momma, I sure do lover her!
I hope you all have a great week! I love you all!
Elder Martin
"Our lives are made up of little, simple circumstances that amount to a great deal when they are brought together, and sum up the whole life of the man or woman."
President Brigham Young
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