Week 75: Jan 8, 2018 - 2018 well underway!

2018 is already moving really fast!

As I mentioned last week, we were able to have the baptismal service

for Sister Masako on Sunday, and it was crazy to be a part of one at

last. Because the ocean was going to be frigid (even on Ishigaki it

gets a little cold) we ended up doing it on the roof, which is a first

for me. But even with the weather, we were able to have a spiritual

experience, and it has been great to work with her and hear her

testimony grow throughout my time here so far. I think one of the most

amazing things was hearing her testimony, where she spoke from her

heart about following Christ to the end. The end is a long time away,

but really, that journey is simply one small step at a time. Little by

little we draw closer, thinking the entire time that we are making no

progress. Until one day, we look back, and realize that we're on top

of the world. As Masako quoted, the Lord promises in Ether to turn our

weaknesses into strengths, if we choose to allow Him, and then we will

improve and grow more than we ever imagined.

It reminds me of a conversation I had with Elder Arnold as we were

dendoing, about a quote from I believe President Hinkley. He said

roughly that 'we need to disagree, without being disagreeable'. We

can't compromise our standards for the world, because we want to grow

closer to the Lord. But when we are debating over the new color for

the house, be it blue or black, what is our attitude? When we meet

people that don't think as we do, possibly even don't agree with us

(and we meet a lot as missionaries), what is our reaction. I like the

question because I don't know if it has a single answer, besides draw

unto Christ. More than anything this transfer, I think that's been

something I've been able to relearn. The closer you come to Christ,

the more you try to emulate Him, the more you will be filled with

light and love in your life. It's truly an amazing time to be a part

of the hastening of the Lords work, and feel the glory and light

firsthand.

This week is also transfer week, but we don't have calls yet, so I'll

have to keep you all posted next week! Thanks for the emails!

Love,

Elder Mitchell Woodhouse