TESTIFYING

FAM and Friendzzz

This week was wonderful! We had exchanges this week. I went to Camarillo with Sister Cusick and learned so much in just one day. My goal was to declare the restoration and focus on sharing the restoration of the gospel and be bold in declaring. I had an experience that touched me.. We had a gospel discussion with three young high school boys. They asked several questions about the church and thought it fascinating that we have a prophet and that he is the prophet of the whole world, not just our church. One of them, asked me, " So you've grown up believing this? You were raised this way." I had the opportunity to bear testimony that even though I grew up surrounded by friends and family who were members of the church and have always had that foundation, I too had to find out for myself. I had to get on my knees and pray to know if Joseph Smith was a prophet and that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. I know, without a doubt, that the gospel of Jesus Christ is restored. I know that these things are true. We have to find out for ourselves, but continue to learn from each other and draw strength from each other’s testimonies! I came away from exchanges wanting to be a better missionary in general, but especially to declare the restoration :)

We have been meeting with Brother Allen every week! He is the less active member who's in his 80's. Calling him for appointments is one of mine and sister mason's favorite thing because he cracks the best jokes. Anyway, we are fighting so hard to help him get to the temple. Our lesson with him was so powerful. Discussing personal experiences and why the temple is so important to Sister Mason and I really left me pondering.. through the covenants I have made with the Lord by going through the temple, my perspective on every thing has shifted so much. I have grown so much closer to him and my understanding of the gospel. We aren't trying to get him there because it is the next step. It's because we want him to have those blessings that we enjoy!

We met with Tony this week and taught the Word of Wisdom. He Says, "I know I have to give these things up for my baptism!" He is so solid and really striving to be prepared for his baptism in every way! He came to church yesterday with his Book of Mormon in hand. He also came to the second hour.. wahooo! We will be meeting with him tonight and he has requested to receive a priesthood blessing as he commits to quit smoking by Saturday. It's been a blessing to see his growth and has really inspired me to be more faithful. He has A LOT of faith.

We had the opportunity to watch the general Women's broadcast this past weekend. It was amazing.. I didn't want it to end ha! When I saw the Salt lake temple and the conference center my heart hurt (but only a tiny tiny bit) haha :) The meeting was beautiful. It seemed to be centered on covenants and helping one other in selflessness. Henry B. Eyring's talk touched me.. God has provided us with a plan.. a path marked with covenants. He knew that the journey back home would be difficult at times and that's why he provided us with help along the way. I was thinking a lot about the great women I have in my life as examples and how they have helped me on my path back. I feel so blessed to be a covenant daughter and to feel his love through living the gospel and especially sharing it with others here in Ventura! He sees our divine potential. He loves us and he will be with us as we take our journey back to our heavenly home. I can't wait to see what is in store for general conference this weekend!! I'm sooo excited. I've been thinking about questions I want to seek answers for and challenge every one to pray to receive revelation in preparation for conference. It's gonna be gooood. Anyway, I am out of time! But I love you alll!! You're the best. Thank you for the letters/ emails!

"Those who listen to and follow the counsel of the living prophets and apostles will not go astray. The teachings of living prophets provide an anchor of eternal truth in a world of shifting values and help us avoid misery and sorrow."

 

Preach my gospel Pg. 75

Sister James

3-31-2104