Facing Opposition

What I am about to say is pretty obvious, but it would seem that Satan hates what we are doing. And when I mention this, I am not just talking about our specific area--I am referring to all that is taking place with us, and then the missionaries in the Des Moines 5th Spanish Branch (the other two sets that are in our branch). Many people we have been trying to talk to on the street or at doorsteps deny the chance to listen before we can invite them, and then of course all of us are having trouble contacting current investigators. It's frustrating, but then again, it's all part of missionary life. 

We had to do an emergency clean-up job for some of the stake center's bathrooms on Saturday night. It was fun, though!

As it is in all things we face in life, we have some weeks that simply aren't as great as others. What do we do when we face such times, though? Well, I would say that the first thing we should do is not complain. We shouldn't feel afraid to admit that we are going through hard times, but amidst opposition we should look for ways to improve, not excuses that hinder our progression. It is much better to be a creator of circumstances, not a creature of them. So with that, Elder Homer and I have talked a lot with each other about not only improving the ways we find people to teach, but also how we can set better expectations with investigators when we do find them. I can't say that this will guarantee better times since people always have their agency, but at least it's better to look for ways to improve circumstances instead of wallowing in them. We have faith that all will be well, and that as we continue to work, we will be successful.

Hooray for wooden dragons!!

I do have a couple of great things to report on though, one of them being on how much Moses has already progressed since officially becoming a member of the Church. First of all, there was quite literally a greater light about him, which we noticed at his home and then at Church yesterday. Then of course we learned that he has been doing further research on his own time online (Church websites, of course), and he has also borne his testimony to various people he talked to throughout the week. To be quite frank, Elder Homer and I were astonished. We often take for granted how powerful the gift of the Holy Ghost is since plenty of us have received it many years ago, but it really does change hearts when one has a sincere desire to serve God. So yes, that was quite amazing to see in him, and I can't wait to see how he progresses in the upcoming week. We also made contact with the Miller family, the five Catholics we taught a week ago, and they are doing good. We haven't had a second chance to teach them quite yet but we hope to do so before the week is through.

Tracting with Kevin is the best!

The Lord is with us, and I really do feel like this will be a blessed week. Also, to make one last announcement, this time we will actually be receiving transfer calls on Halloween since the next transfer meeting has been bumped up to next Tuesday. Don't ask me why because I don't know, but I hope it will suffice to say that I will know for sure what is going on with us by next Monday. Stay tuned!

Well hello, sir.

I LOVE YOU ALL!! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

Scripture of the Week: Alma 41:12-15 (Karma is a real thing, you know. Always keep in mind that your thoughts, words, actions and desires all play a role in how God sees you.)

Missionary Advice: The newest Mormon Message, "Reflections," has a simple but powerful message about the importance of ridding pride from your heart. Share this with everyone, for it is really good! You never know whose heart it will touch.