A year ago, I would never have pictured myself where I am today. In October of 2012 when President Monson made his announcement, it changed my life. I think this is a good place to share my story about why I decided to go on a mission:
A few days before General Conference in October, I had been feeling like I needed to be preparing for something. Frankly, I thought I was preparing for marriage. (THANK HEAVENS I WASN'T) I kept thinking about it and being troubled so I decided to call my mom up. We discussed it for a little bit, and my mom encouraged me to write down my thoughts and feelings. I did, and prayed about them for the next few days.
Come Saturday, I was planning on watching the first session of Conference at my apartment with my roommates. But, I woke up earlier than I had expected so I decided to drive up to Farmington to surprise my family. I was sitting with my family on the couch when President Monson announced the age changes for missionary service. With tears in my eyes, I looked at my mom. We both knew that this was an answer to my prayers and feelings.
Through this preparation process, I have seen the hand of the Lord in my life in so many ways. He has helped me and strengthened me as I finished up school and prepared for Seattle. I know that the Lord blesses us in infinite ways, ways that we don't always see or acknowledge. I am so thankful for the strength that I get through the Lord.
Today I went to the temple with my mom, one last time before my mission. I picked up a triple combination and opened up to D&C 4.
1 Now behold, a marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men.
2 Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.
3 Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work;
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 perisheth not, but bringeth salvation to his soul;
5 And faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualify him for the work.
6 Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence.
7 Ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Amen.
The part of this chapter that really stuck out to me was the qualifications for the work: faith, hope, charity and love, and an eye single to the glory of God. These are attributes that I am continuously praying for and trying to develop, and I encourage you all to do the same.
I am so thankful for this opportunity to serve the people of Seattle, Washington. I know that the Lord has a purpose for me there. I know that missionary work isn't about me, but is about God and his children. I absolutely could not do this without my Savior's help. I know that this church is true, and I cannot wait to go share the truth of it with others.
Hurrah for Israel :)
