Experiences this week

You too can preach the Gospel. 

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This week I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in many wonderful mission type experiences. I would like to share some with you briefly.

First, my family had the opportunity to have the full time Elder missionaries at our house for dinner and a short message. It was a wonderful experience for my family and I to be able to ask questions and learn more about the things I will be doing in only a few short weeks. The Spirit that we felt with them in our home was great. I was so happy that I was able to have them over so that my family could see what things I will be doing when I go out to Cleveland Ohio.

Second, one of my good friends was baptized, and today will be confirmed a member of the Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints. Yesterday I had the opportunity to watch and experience his baptism with him, and oh what a joy it was. The Holy Ghost was present and I felt the Savior's love for my friend. Watching my friend grow and change has been absolutely amazing; I know that his example has strengthened my testimony and faith.

Third, I was able to spend time with family and friends as we helped prepare for Christmas. The Spirit that I feel when I am with family and friends and we are serving others is the best feeling in the whole world! Being able to serve those around us with those I love is awesome. When we are serving others, we are really serving our Heavenly Father. (Mosiah 2:17)

Fourth, I had the opportunity to go to the temple with a great friend of mine. We had the opportunity to do work for those who have passed on without their temple work being completed. I love being in the temple to do this work for those who cannot do it without our help. These people are counting on us and all we have to do is give of ourselves a little time each month, or week (however much you can give) and go to the temple and do their work. They are waiting and only we can do this for them. This work is the difference between paradise and prison for these people.

In conclusion, I just want to say that I am so thankful for this time of year and that I have been so fortunate to spend it with those I hold most dear. I know the Lord has a plan for each and every one of us and His timing is perfect. The timing of the beautiful experiences I got to participate in this week are heaven sent; they are happening now for a reason. I am so thankful for the restored Gospel and I know that it is true, and I cannot wait to share it with the people of Ohio.

I want you to know that your participation in this the Latter Days is crucial. What are you doing to help the Lord further His divine work, and how can you do better? We need to be actively engaged in this great cause, especially at this Christmas season. I want to invite each of you to think of a person or family that needs you this Christmas, and give them your love and service this season. Be a friend to all, and not just now but every day of the year. Heavenly Father needs you to be His missionary too, full time or not: we can all be missionaries today. What will you do? I have shared some of my simple experiences. Be not afraid, open your mouth and it shall be filled if you are continually feasting upon His words. You will be prepared, and the Lord will be able to count on you.

Of this I bear testimony, In the name of Jesus Christ,
Amen

Love,
Samantha