Week #73 - Esperanza

Hello everyone!!!

The time is winding down... I can hardly believe it!  I don´t feel ready, but I feel more prepared than before to go home. 4 more weeks!

Finally, Angel will be getting baptized this week and he´s so excited!!

It has been so great seeing Hector working as the secretary in the bishopric after being baptize only a few months ago. What a blessing it is to see him working so close alongside other members and LOVING IT. His love for others and his desire to serve has grown so much and I feel so much joy for him and his progress. It reminds me of the verse in Alma 26 when Ammon is explaining all the success they have had preaching the gospel to his brothers: “Now behold, we can look forth and see the fruits of our labors; and are they few? I say unto you, Nay, they are many; yea, and we can witness of their sincerity, because of their love towards their brethren and also towards us.” Hector is a testimony to me of this and in the moments when I ask myself if I have done all I can, I´m comforted remembering how the Savior´s grace has helped others be converted and receive the gospel. The fruits of our labors are never few, because thousands, even millions will be blessed for the love new converts will have for others, thanks to the Savior´s Atonement. 

A few districts are practicing singing Peace in Christ (Paz en Cristo) for a mission conference we will be having soon with Élder José L. Alonso, a member of the seventy. I´ll be playing the piano so that´ll be really fun!

I was thinking about what a privilege it is to take the Sacrament every week and what we are promising to the Lord when we participate in it. During the week, we face temptations, heartache, physical and emotional pain. Do our minds turn to Christ during these times? Or do we easily forget that He suffered for us, give into Satan´s traps to feel discouraged lonely, or afraid? Let me tell you something. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. As we take the Sacrament, we promise to God that we have always been thinking about His son, Jesus Christ, during these moments. I know I can always do better to think of Him in every moment of the day and not let myself get frustrated or impatient with myself or with others. Commit yourself to do a little better every day, and you be a little bit happier every day!! 

LOVE YOU ALL!!

-Hermana Doney

p.s. the fruit is granadilla.... it´s good but a lil weird! you eat the seeds!