14 Reasons to Serve: Hola!

Hola! Spring is on its way.

We were able to attend the Area Mission leadership conference in Uruguay the end of August. Elder Rasband and Elder Godoy along with our Area Presidency spoke to us. It was wonderful to listen to them and have them answer questions, give counsel and blessings.

Elder Rasband told us that Pres. Nelson said :

1. Tell them that I love them.

2. Tell them all thank you. Thanks for the service, diligence, for being a consecrated congregation. All have raised hands in sacred places saying, covenanting that you would sacrifice and would consecrate.

You and the missionaries are living the law of consecration now, and they are grateful.

I have really thought a lot about that since he spoke. Thinking what have we learned here on our mission and what could we share. First I would like you to know that I know that the Holy Ghost can whisper to you and help in all that you do. Each of us can receive personal revelation and our prayers are answered in many different ways. I also know that you should never compare. You need to just try and do a little better than you did before. Let others do their own thing and you focus on what you can do to be better, serve a little harder, love a little more and share and care a little more.

“Comparison is the thief of contentment”

I know that we were called to focus on members and missionaries working together. We have been blessed to help facilitate these interactions. It has strengthened our testimonies. It has made us more aware of the dedication and love of a missionary. How grateful we are for the sacrifice of these young missionaries. Again I marvel at what they accomplish and overcome. Thank you! Always remember you love those you serve.

Yesterday we spent the day at the Boca Stake Center working with CILSA and our humanitarian missionaries. We had Mike and Ron in from the States. Mike is a physical therapist and worked with this program for the past 7 years. The church sent 970 wheelchairs to the Argentine Area this year. Each year they provide 1/3 of those chairs for the center. The church has designed and had manufactured 3 different models. Adjusted to size, height and making it easier for each individual to navigate on cobblestone and dirt roads as well as be active so they can be more flexible. We helped as they measured, fit and helped 67 individuals receive a new wheelchair. Each team lovingly greeted, fit and adjusted a wheel chair for their individual needs. We saw them come in on walkers, being carried, in old chairs and leave with the biggest smile and excitement with a chair just for them. Ron got to greet and check them in and out and I got to visit and help them get breakfast and lunch. (A visit to me is a hug and a smile and hola, como esta!) This was one of the highlights of our mission - emotions were very tender. We are so grateful for the blessings and belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We love how they are so service orientated. We know that we are each children of God and He loves us.

I could go on and on but it really isn’t necessary. Just know it is a wonderful experience and that our mission has been a blessing to us and for our family.

It is hard to believe that we will be home the end of October. Where did that year go?

Our Love and Prayers.