This has been a memorable one, for more reasons other than that I turned 21 years old!
Our investigator Kai is progressing GREAT! We were able to meet with him twice this week. In our first visit, we primarily focused on the doctrine of Repentance as a crucial part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, it seems like before Thursday he was under the impression that he had to be "perfect" after his baptism...thank goodness that is not the case! We would all be DOOMED if it weren't for the ability we had to repent of our sins, and he was most grateful to hear that it was possible to be forgiven. He has a great desire to change. Later, on Sunday, we went through the baptism interview questions with him. He told us he feels his faith growing, and that he is beginning to see the blessings of God in his life. He has a firm conviction in Prophets already, and shows great faith. His current concern is in tithing; he wants to make sure that the money given is used in good ways. His family doesn't quite approve of the idea of "churches asking for money" either. His father was previously scammed by a church in China. We told him that he will be blessed for his obedience. Elder McKean also used his great ability to teach by the Spirit and share heartfelt testimony. We are excited to teach him again next week!
We also had the chance to meet with one of our Less-Actives this week. Bro Li was baptized a few years ago, and asked us for a blessing. We were able to give him a blessing of comfort and peace on Tuesday. He also told us of many of the trials he is currently facing in his life, both in his work and emotionally. We promised him that he would be able to find strength in the Book of Mormon and by daily reading it, his faith would be strengthened to help him to overcome his trials.
I am very proud of my District! We have found nine new investigators this week, which is a HUGE miracle! We are hoping to continue to see results with a focus on a finding for this transfer.
I've been a little stressed out this week, but studies and talking with Elder McKean have helped me to get through it. My studies have focused on a "Why?" journal: I take each line of "Preach My Gospel" and ask "Why?" to it. For example "Why is God our Heavenly Father?" "Why does he Love us?" Why does obedience help to fulfill His Plan?" Its been fascinating, and I've found myself more invested in my studies then I've been in in a while.
Our investigator Kai is progressing GREAT! We were able to meet with him twice this week. In our first visit, we primarily focused on the doctrine of Repentance as a crucial part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, it seems like before Thursday he was under the impression that he had to be "perfect" after his baptism...thank goodness that is not the case! We would all be DOOMED if it weren't for the ability we had to repent of our sins, and he was most grateful to hear that it was possible to be forgiven. He has a great desire to change. Later, on Sunday, we went through the baptism interview questions with him. He told us he feels his faith growing, and that he is beginning to see the blessings of God in his life. He has a firm conviction in Prophets already, and shows great faith. His current concern is in tithing; he wants to make sure that the money given is used in good ways. His family doesn't quite approve of the idea of "churches asking for money" either. His father was previously scammed by a church in China. We told him that he will be blessed for his obedience. Elder McKean also used his great ability to teach by the Spirit and share heartfelt testimony. We are excited to teach him again next week!
We also had the chance to meet with one of our Less-Actives this week. Bro Li was baptized a few years ago, and asked us for a blessing. We were able to give him a blessing of comfort and peace on Tuesday. He also told us of many of the trials he is currently facing in his life, both in his work and emotionally. We promised him that he would be able to find strength in the Book of Mormon and by daily reading it, his faith would be strengthened to help him to overcome his trials.
I am very proud of my District! We have found nine new investigators this week, which is a HUGE miracle! We are hoping to continue to see results with a focus on a finding for this transfer.
I've been a little stressed out this week, but studies and talking with Elder McKean have helped me to get through it. My studies have focused on a "Why?" journal: I take each line of "Preach My Gospel" and ask "Why?" to it. For example "Why is God our Heavenly Father?" "Why does he Love us?" Why does obedience help to fulfill His Plan?" Its been fascinating, and I've found myself more invested in my studies then I've been in in a while.
The HIGHLIGHT of my week was giving a concert at the Buena Vista Manor. Our former Stake President's wife knew of some well-known LDS singers who were in town giving a concert, and she invited me to participate. I got to sing some of my favorites from before the mission along side a Grammy-winning artist, which was a true honor. I never thought I would get the chance to do something like that as a missionary! It made for a very memorable birthday weekend.
Speaking of which, thank you to all those who wished me Happy Birthday and thought of me this past week! It meant so much to have so much love sent my way. I am so grateful for all of your support and confidence. Thank you for being my rock!
I love you all!
Elder Butters/Bao ZhangLao
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