Big Plays - June 3, 2019

Our zone motto this transfer is No MOBP'S. That stands for, "missed out on a big play". Like in sports the plays that change the game, the big ones, require the most involvement and dedication. In the grand contest of missionary work, we are privileged to participate in many big plays, and this week has been full of those. 

Brothers and Sisters, I can honestly say that there is no more rewarding experience than working for the salvation of others and finding yourself in the right place at the right time, as God calls a play that will change someones entire life. What an honor to be a part of this great work of Salvation. I am so thankful for the opportunity to be a missionary, I love it more than anything in the world.

That all being said, this week was great! We did have some crazy weather at the beginning of the week, flash flooding particularly, but all is well. 

We had an amazing district council on Thursday (s/o to Elder Webb). He talked about the difference between the Titanic and the barges built by the brother of Jared, and how our lives are so much more secure as we build them the way the Lord would have us do, rather than to build them ourselves, or as the world would have us do.

That training, coupled with my personal studies, and an inspired thought from a close friend serving in Georgia about miracles, served to prepare me for the work we needed to do throughout this weekend. I learned a lot about faith, and the power that it really has to work wonders in the name of Jesus Christ. It truly is through faith in the name, character, and Atonement of Jesus Christ that all good things are brought to pass. 

So Friday hits. We've been teaching this lady named Jane for a long time. We've tried and tried to get her to come to a church tour, having been distinctly impressed that once that happened she would make it to Sacrament Meeting. But she'd always bailed at the last minute. So we were planning on telling her that we would have to stop meeting with her if she wouldn't keep commitments. 

But 10 minutes before the lesson she calls and tells us that she is ready to come to a tour. So we scrambled and got her a ride, and it was a beautiful lesson. Turns out she had some very special spiritual experiences that had motivated her to act on what she had been taught. The next day she experienced some of the worst persecution of her life because of her involvement with the church. Despite that, and after lots of work and prayers, she did make it to church yesterday just as we knew she would. 

In addition, Shirley is progressing so well, John was baptized and confirmed, and Shirley even came to the baptism. What's more, she is already sharing the gospel, and in helping an older member to return to church by giving him a ride. God is so good brothers and sisters. He really does love all of his children, and if we will do our part to place ourselves in the right places at the right times, by our faith in Christ, we will be able to participate in those big plays that will impact the eternities. If you've read this far you're a saint, and I'd just invite you to pray for understanding of what you can do to participate in the game. Our coach needs us all on the field, so find out how you can be a part of the next play He needs you in. 

Anyway, I love you all! Keep the faith!
Godspeed.

Elder Housholder

Pics: 
1. John's Baptism! 
2. Another squadron photograph
3. More Baptism! 
4. The District. (S/o to Elders Harvath, Stoddard, Koyle, Barker, and Webb)





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