Tuesday, June 5, 2012

JUNE 5, 2012 Cory's bday



That is really cool that you got to practice teaching the second lesson. I remember well that time when we practiced at the Busby's house. I remember that has become a part of my testimony too, that every time I testify of the Book of Mormon, the Spirit is there. There are a lot of people here that belong to the Pentecostal church and a lot of them don't listen to anything we say, and it seems like almost nobody can accept that there's another book of scripture, but I can always feel the Spirit bear witness of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. That has been one of the biggest things I've learned, to rely on the Spirit, not just use in a supporting role in the lesson. It sounds like our ward is going to have some prepared missionaries! That is so exciting. There are two missionaries leaving from Juncos. One just got his call to Arizona and leaves next week and one is waiting for his call. Those two went on splits with us last week and it was an awesome experience. I love seeing the missionaries who are leaving because I know what they're in for and that they have no way of knowing how much they'll learn and grow from their missions. I know I didn't understand it.
The thought hadn't even crossed my mind that I went to the temple a year ago today. I have grown to appreciate the temple so much more out here, especially learning about and teaching the Plan of Salvation, I've seen how important the temple covenants are. I especially like in Doctrine and Covenants section 84 about the oath and covenant of the priesthood and about how through the ordinances of the priesthood, the power of godliness is manifest. I was studying that today in my personal study, actually. I was in 3 Nephi when Jesus is teaching the discourse like the Sermon on the Mount and he says the pure in heart will see God, and I've made the connection recently between the priesthood ordinances of the temple and the privilege of seeing God. (there's a Topical Guide section called God, Privilege of seeing that helped me see that) anyway, I love this! I feel like every day I'm instructed from on high and I'm growing in a way I never could if I was sitting at home. Thanks for always helping me prepare for the mission. I've seen the blessings for that preparation.
Well I love you both, I'll talk more about the week in the other letter
Elder Duclos