April 29, 2013

Hey you all!
Well, thanks for all the people who told me I am 8 months in the mission now, it made me real sad knowing I only have 16 more months to go. Just kidding, I was just a little sad. It is nuts how fast time is going by. I honestly feel like I just got off the plane and arrived in the Philippines... but that was 6 months ago! Anyway, enough about how fast time is flying by. This week was awesome! We got to have a lot of successful work this week. A family we are teaching right now is really getting ready for baptism. They are really excited to get baptized especially as a family! They have really gained a testimony of the gospel of Christ and I can really see it in them. The have changed so much since the first time I taught them which was only a few weeks ago, and I can just imagine the change from when they were first taught. I know that the gospel has the power to change our lives for the better. We really do become more Christ-like as we follow His example and follow His plan for us. I am so grateful for the Paller family and all they do. It  has been a testimony builder for me to see them come unto Christ and it just reminds me of the changes I have made in my life which have brought me closer unto my Savior. Last Sunday, I was asked to give a talk in sacrament meeting which was a great experience. I just talked on the gospel of Jesus Christ and how we need to follow it in order to be happy in this life and even more happy in the life to come. All Heavenly Father asked of us is to follow His plan. Which is to have faith in Jesus Christ , repent, be baptized, receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, and endure to the end. It is "beautifully simply, and simply beautiful." I know the gospel is true, I know it can change our lives for the better and draw us closer unto Christ. I am especially grateful for the opportunity I have as a full-time missionary to share the gospel to the wonderful people int he Philippines. Even though I'm still new and only have 8 months out with a long time to go, I have seen so many miracles happen and I have seen the gospel strengthen families. I love this gospel and I love the people here in the Philippines. Next week sana!

Elder Stephens