cool beans

Family,

That's a great story about a bb lodged in your chest. It's a much better alternative to cancer. Carrie, happy late birthday! Dad, my companion loves saying "cool beans" haha.

Well my impression from this week is honestly just how much more I need to work on. It's been a good and trying time. I realize that there are a lot of areas where I can focus to be a better missionary and a better trainer. I thought I was pretty patient before, but now I'm finding out how impatient I really am. And even though it's hard to swallow the truth, I feel the importance of having those things brought to light in proper timing. God's purpose is to help us become the very best we can be and the most happy that we can. I remember reading once in the church handbook that the purpose of every calling in the church is (1) to become a more faithful disciple of Christ, and (2) to help others become more faithful disciples of Christ. My branch president in the MTC said that the way to accomplish the first purpose is by forgetting it and focusing on purpose number 2. That is something I believe but it is difficult to apply 100%. In my personal study this morning I thought about the missionary purpose of "inviting others to come unto Christ." In part, that includes providing others the example of someone who serves as Christ did, and helping others develop the desire to change. Someone that impressed me a little more strongly this morning is how inviting others to come unto Christ is not exclusive of our investigators. It applies to our family, friends, ward members, everyone. 

Well we have been working hard. I'm still here in Chandler and suppose I will be until the end of the 12 week training for my companion. Our investigators right now are giving us some disappointments but we have an investigator who came to the church yesterday for her first time and she loved it. Her sister is already a member and came with her to church. It's a thrill to see her desire to learn. She is so sincere and is understanding things well. We're excited for her progress.

I better sign out now. I love you all! Thank you for your prayers. I pray for you all as well. Have a great week!!

Elder Joshua Gathro