One Heart, One Mind

This weekend was a little different, but lots of fun. The stake had 3 days of events and such as a commemoration of the new stake center being dedicated and as an opportunity to get to know each other a little more having recently combined wards. They had a big sports conference on Friday, lots of fun little exhibitions and a culture night on Saturday, and the Korean Area Seventy came and spoke in Sacrament meeting yesterday. It was a cool opportunity to build trust with the members and especially to help our investigators get to know all the members. In a way, it was hard not to be out talking to people and teaching lessons as much as usual, but I was a neat opportunity that I think was really good for a lot of members and investigators.

Yesterday we met a new family!! They are attending another church that is kind of extreme, but they have recently felt like it's not really all right and especially that it's not really the way they want to raise their kids, so they have been looking for "better options." He prayed to know what he needs to do and our church kept coming to mind as one that is just full of good, kind people and he feels like it might be helpful for his family. So we met, gave their cute little family of 4 a tour of the building, and talked for a while. They will probably get a lot of opposition and persecution from their current church if they start coming here, so he said he needs some time to figure out what is best and how they need to act. As we spent that hour or so with him and his family, I could just feel the eternal value of families and I promised them that if they are really searching for truth, God will guide them and help them do what is needed for their family. 

I know that God really does love and watch over our families. I couldn't help but think again how important families are. Especially as a missionary, one thing I have noticed is that there is a distinct difference in the spirit and atmosphere when teaching individuals and when teaching families. There is just something inherently sacred and pure about a family, especially one seeking or prepared to receive truth. FAMILIES ARE SO IMPORTANT!!! I'm so grateful that God gave us families and I'm especially grateful for mine. I am so blessed. Thank you, I love you all!!

Have a wonderful week! 

Love, Elder Tolman