For the last 6 months, I have served in Bennett Valley, Santa Rosa area. That is typically a long time to serve in one area so I knew I was soon due for a move. When President Bunker told me that he has prayerfully selected Shiloh Park, Santa Rosa to be my new area, I was immediately excited. I love Santa Rosa so I knew it would be nice to stay in the city. But that's not what its about...
I recognize my purpose as a missionary of the Lord which is to bring others unto Christ through baptism. So the call to go to Shiloh park means nothing to me if I am not fulfilling my assignment. That night I prayed earnestly to God that he would prepare souls for me to find, teach, and baptize. For the next week, that same cry was made to my Lord. I believe in the promise given in Matthew 7:7 "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:".
Sure enough, it was given to me...
Our very first dinner/appointment in Shiloh Park was with the Ritter family. Sis. Ritter joined the church in 1976. Her husband, Bob Ritter, grew up with no religion. As we sat across the dinner table there was no doubt that this family had been prepared by the Lord to be taught by us. Later on that evening, we invited Bro. Ritter to follow the example of Jesus Christ and be baptized. Bro. Ritter will be baptized December 5th.
"And whoso reciveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up." (Doctrine and Covenants 84:88)
This is a great story, so uplifting. It reminds me of our first visit, how far I have come from that day and now waiting for the 28th. Your talk on baptism will earn you another jar of apple butter. We are also being confirmed that evening too! Look at all the people you have taught...
ReplyDeleteElder. Not only is your mission to bring others unto Christ through baptism, but you help those who were lost, and bring them back to the True Church. I wish you could have heard my Talk this past Sunday. Oh BTW...I gave a talk, and You were a big part of that talk, YOU and Elder Bush. Thank You for all you have done for Me and my boys. I am now attending Temple Classes.
ReplyDeleteGreat and marvelous work happens when a dedicated Elder is on a mission.I love you and the missionary work that is being done.
ReplyDeleteKaty- Your story is out of this world... Ive been counting down the days till the 28th for months now
ReplyDeleteSis. Grant- Elder Donaldson told me how great your talk was. Let me know when you are going through the temple
Bunnyhoptsa- I LOVE YOU TOO MOM