peace, love, and happiness

Family,

Looking back on the week I feel that there were several instances when we were especially guided by the Spirit. None were extraordinary but still neat and faith-building experiences. Tuesday night we went to teach a less-active member from Puerto Rico the lesson of the Restoration. It was it bit odd because we had never met her and had no idea what her situation was like, but she was invited to hear the discussions again and said yes. So we visited her in another member's home and had a fantastic lesson. My companion and I both felt that we were being guided in certain directions and that in the end it was what she needed. And I felt that Spirit was blessing me with a greater ability to speak in Spanish. During that lesson I was saying everything I wanted to with zero problems. But after the lesson I was back to my normal sub-fluent speaking level. I learned that God will bless us with more gifts when we are seeking to use those gifts for the blessing of others.

Last night we biked down a road and the only lady we saw was just getting out of her car. She shot us down before we could say more than "Good evening." Then we looked across the street and another lady was in her garage and upon seeing us said, "Hi boys, I haven't seen you in a while." She is LDS but hasn't been to church in a long time and never receives visits from the ward. She was so sweet and glad to see us. We asked her about her reading of the scriptures, gave her a new copy of the Book of Mormon, and she has new resolves to start again living the gospel. It was an interesting contrast to the encounter moments before. And the Spirit led us to her, as well as to other places this week. Those promptings came as simple but sure thoughts. I know that the Spirit will work with us to the measure that we are worthy and are seeking to serve. I know that service to others will identify us as disciples of Jesus Christ and will help us to become more like Him.

We had a really good week. Things are going well. Best of luck with the house construction and the new residents on Claudia Drive. I love you all!! Happy Decker Day!

Yours truly, 

Elder Joshua Gathro