Can't believe we're already half-way through another transfer! Time at times goes at a snail's pace, but at other times it flies!
This week was one in which I really had some great opportunities to feel the Spirit and teach from the heart. All of our investigators are progressing and showing a willingness to keep commitments and do what is right, but there seems to be some obstacle that is keeping them from exercising their faith further.
We met with our elderly couple, as per usual, again this week, and took the opportunity to teach from a conference talk, "But If Not" by Dennis E. Simmons. Elder Simmons talks about how when we express our faith in the Lord, we can have confidence that miracles will happen, but that there is always a possibility that they may not happen the exact way we think. Blessings truly come to the faithful, "but if not," we must continue to have faith in the Lord that whatever happens is for our good and is what needs to happen. It was an eye-opening experience for me studying that talk and sharing my feelings about it in a lesson with them. What's better, is that Elder Tung and I experienced the same lesson that we were trying to teach them. After challenging them to be baptized and use their faith to overcome their challenges, our investigators again declined, putting it off until their lives in America are more secure. That was my "but if not." We had done everything right; we had fasted all day, prayed, and done extensive planning, but our desired outcome was still not achieved. I now can choose whether or not to let this one experience cripple my faith, or continue to strive to work and use my faith that one day, the outcomes we desire will be achieved. It made for a great day! A blessing that came from our effort; all three of them showed up to church! YAY!
We were also able to meet with one of our less active members as well, and challenged him to use his faith as well. We also talked to him about the blessings we receive upon fasting for specific purposes. We wish Jerry the best of luck this week, as he is about to take his massive Accounting CPA exam! Monday night had us taking a MASSIVE bike ride into Fremont, the south of our area, to meet up with another less-active. After he told us he no longer wanted to be contacted, we walked home and enjoyed the night. It was pleasant!
On Thursday, I went on exchanges with one of our Zone Leaders, Elder Tu'ua, a great missionary. We spent most of the day doing service, first scrubbing the wooden balcony of an elderly woman, and then helping one of the Union City 1st members move (his house smelled SO BAD, and his mattress was heavy and disgusting.....but I didn't tell you that, ok?). We also taught English class, and our students began learning "The Star-Spangled Banner" at their own request. That should make for a pretty fun 4th of July week for us! Its probably the most patriotic thing we will get to do all day!
Elder Tung has also been teaching me some more magic in the kitchen. He taught me to make Congee, a rice porridge, which is now one of my favorite foods! Looks like I'll be eating Chinese for the 4th (still can't believetomorrow is the 4th. Holidays practically don't exist for missionaries...)
Have a fantastic day tomorrow, and remember our Heavenly Father and all the amazing things He does for us and our country! I also challenge each of you to do your best and have faith, even when the "but if nots" come up!
Love,
Elder Butters (Bao ZhangLao)
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