Monday night we met with the lady who came to church last week and had a terrific lesson. She is so sincere and wants to be closer to God. And she has decided to be baptized at the end of this month! She's a single mother with 4 daughters and she is trying to put her life in order. It is a thrill to see the Spirit work within others and help them progress toward eternal life. We saw that again powerfully on Saturday with a couple who are have been faithful members of their Christian church for 7 years. It was a very interesting lesson, about our 3rd or 4th time with them. They have been reading parts of the Book of Mormon and comparing it with the Bible and are seeing that the Book of Mormon is true. The wife actually said, "I know the Book of Mormon is true, I'm sure of that. I know your church is true, I'm sure of that. I know my church is true, I'm sure of that." So we helped them see all the implications if the Book of Mormon really is true, and that Joseph Smith is a prophet, and that the church of Jesus Christ has been restored. We clarified it for them and made it very simple, and then invited them to find out the truth. Really, what we want is for others to have a strong enough desire to find out the truth, that they commit themselves to study and prayer, pleading a confirmation from God to know if this is His church. I am seeing the importance of teaching it clearly so they understand, and then helping them foster the desire to know. Because this is the most important message in the world. As part of forming the desire, I've thought quite a bit this week about the role of the Holy Ghost. He is the only one that can work within them and teach them intimately what is right. In all we do, I believe that the most important thing is that we work by the Spirit. It matters less what we say, or what we do. If they feel and recognize the Spirit, our purpose is accomplished. And success will come.
Fourth of July went well here. It was one of the nicest days so far this summer. It rained in the morning, which brought temperatures in the 80s. We had to be in by 8pm so we didn't see any fireworks. But it was a good day, and I have a tie that was perfect for the day.
We got permission to go on Saturday morning with our ward to a temple session in Spanish. It was my first time hearing it all in Spanish. I still prefer English but it was a neat experience and very uplifting, as always.
I'm excited that Mom will finally get the house the way she wants :) And enjoy your time in Utah, Mom. I'll take care of the loan info and I'll be praying for Rachel. Congratulations, Erin, on your acting award. That's exciting. I hope everyone is enjoying the summer and soaking it up. Our week passed really well and we found several new individuals and a couple. We feel that our companionship is strengthening and we're becoming better missionaries. The Lord lives and loves us. Don't forget to live the first principles of the Gospel. I love you all!
Elder Joshua Gathro
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