Words of the Prophets

Dearest family,
My heart is very full this cool spring morning in Melbourne.  I have felt very instructed by living apostles and prophets and I recieved defininte counsel that I look forward to apply in my life. As Elder Hales said so eloquently, "the greatest blessings come after conference."  I know that the talks given were inspired and are God's word.  I hope and love that I have for Jesus has been renewed and strengthened.  I especially loved Elder Holland's talk.  It was very down to earth and heartfelt.  As he said, we must always believe in miracles and "hold fast to hope."  We are told in 1 Nephi 15 to cling to to rod of iron of the word of God.  I believe that one reason why this is so important to do, is because the word of God fills us with hope.  I give us purpose and desire to learn, a desire that lead to faith, then to even knowledge of eternal truths.  Perhaps, in our time on earth, we feel like broken vessels.  We feel that we are doing enough, or perhaps not even good enough.  I know that Elder Holland said, Christ, our Lord and Savior is the Eternal Potter.  His fingers will guide the clay to be make a beautiful vessel, a vessel that even dwell with God.  Yet, as learn each day, it is crucial to allow his gentle touch to guide the clay and trust in His counsel and plan for each of us.  I loved this talk.    

I identified several themes, but the message of hope and the healing and redemptive power of the Atonement were feelings that came most often to my mind.  I had several questions written down, as I invited, many of the people that we teach to do so also.  I saw those questions answered one by one.  It is miraculous.  I know the prophets words are a "safety" for this day, and perhaps, ultimately, the only safety, that we have in this day, as President said so eloquently. 

It was a fabulous week.  I think our lesson with our investigator, Jennifer, was the best lesson I have participated in, thus, far on the mission.  The Spirit was so strong, so very strong.  It started with a question from Elder Rafferty, a English Elder, I was on splits with for the day, who asked her, how she has seen her faith in God grow in these past couple months.  She gave the most beautiful testimony of God and His love, and the gift of prayer in her lives.  She then proceeded to tell us that she had already prayed about the Book of Mormon, and received her answer.  I love the message that we share.  It indeed transforms individuals (Mosiah 3:19).  I have seen it transform my own.  

I love you all so very much.  In my prayer last night, I had a sweet opportunity to ponder over the gifts that each of you have been in my life.  I look to your examples and love you so much. I know I am in the right place.  I am happy to be here and I feel that I able to contribute this work.  My joy is full.  May God bless each of you.  I know that the word of God can give us peace and greater love.  It fills with hope and directs to have charity.  The scriptures have become one of my closest friends on this mission.  The words of the prophets do indeed direct towards Christ's redemptive power and God's love.  I know God loves each of you and that He will bless us great, as we seek to follow Him.  I read all you emails.  I am sorry I don't always respond. 

Love,

Jonathan