Week 97

THE LAST RIDE

This is the time. The sprint to the end of the finish line. I cannot believe that it is here. I ran track in high school, and I remember that last lap, putting all of my energy into it. I was at a dead sprint, trying to cross that finish line with all my effort put in. My mission isn't any different! I have been focusing my efforts on these people in Reno, NV for my last few weeks here on my mission, so that I can say that I sprinted to the end. It is not easy, let me tell you, but I know it will be just as rewarding.

This week, we talked to our friend Austin who randomly texted us, saying he wanted to be baptized by our Bishop this Sunday. We, of course, said that is amazing and we will help him get there, but he has to learn more first. We went over and talked to him about the commandments and such, and he was totally on-board. Then, we talked about the Book of Mormon. He immediately denies that it is true and begins to ask us where we have evidence of the Book of Mormon. I said, "You have me, my companion, and God to tell you that it's true!" He then laughs and asks again for a reference from the New Testament where the Book of Mormon is mentioned. He still wants to be baptized into our church specifically though...? I am not complaining; I love to teach, so this gives me some more opportunities to do so.

Just last night, we stopped by our Recent Convert Hilda's house to talk to her daughter Crystal. The lesson began with a prayer, and in that prayer, she says that she is grateful for her family to be there and that us missionaries are a part of her family. My eyes began to get watery, and I am not sure if it is because I am so tired or that really just touched my heart. It is hard on a mission to feel like people really know me. I have moved away for 2 years, and I have only spent 4-6 months with one single person. Now, with my Mission President being gone, I really feel like nobody knows me. However, when she said that I was a part of that family, I felt so included. My heart swells for them, and I want nothing more than to serve them. Kind of cool how God will put that type of love in your heart for others. I am so grateful for these tender moments that come after many days of hard work. My Heavenly Father knows me so personally, and that could not be more of a witness.

This past week, we had a Zone Conference, and I was able to give what we call a Departing Testimony. I never thought that I would get to the point where I would stand in front of these missionaries and tell them where my testimony is at this point in my life. I bore a simple witness of the Divinity of the Savior and the role He has played in my life. I truly can say that the Atonement has had an effect on me in my life, and I want nothing more than to share it with others. I love being a missionary and dedicating myself to this work has been one of the things I have been most passionate about. As I closed my testimony, my heart hurt knowing that I won't be able to be a full-time missionary in this capacity again in my earthly life. However, I will never stop being a missionary, and that will forever bring me comfort.

It is hot here in Nevada, but the work must go on. As said above, "THE LAST RIDE" is termed after one of my companion's goals he set right before ending his mission. It is go-time. No stopping now. No breaks. No relaxing. I am ready to finish strong. I am excited to see these next few weeks that are in store for me, and I hope that you all enjoy the warm summer! Stay safe out there, and don't forget that you are loved by God!

D&C 4:4 - For behold, the field is white already to harvest; and lo, he that thrusteth in his sickle with his might, the same layeth up in store that he perishes not, but bringeth salvation to his soul;