Dear Mother,
We had some pretty amazing miracles this past week. As I have told you, about a month ago we were able to baptize a lady. During the week of her baptism we found out that her son was 9 years old and wanted desperately to be baptized. Well we taught him then and there and continued to teach him throughout the month. We had originally set the baptism date for April 27, but as last week progresses we decided to move his baptism to the first week in May. His mother said that was when his uncle would be in town and he would be the one to baptize him.
Friday morning rolled around and Elder Wilmott and I were holding our companionship study as normal. With about 10 minutes left we recieved a call on the phone. It was the mother. She said that the uncle was going to be in town this weekend and wanted to know if we could have the baptism on Saturady! This was Friday morning! We told her of course and started planning for the baptism right then and there. It is amazing how much the Lord has blessed us over the past few weeks.
The other part of the miracle is this--I have told you previously about our mission goals to baptize so many people every month. This is just one of the ways that the Lord is showing us the blessings of our work and the prayers of all those involved...this includes all of you! Thank you so much for the help and the prayers on the behalf of all the missionaries in the world.
SHIPPA looks so beautiful. No, that's not the word that I want to use...let me see...angelic, there we go. That one seems to fit a little better.
Well I love each of you and hope you have a good week!
Love,
Elder Hamblin
The Best Two Years
Monday, 29 April 2013
Saturday, 27 April 2013
Letter 4/22/13
Dear Family,
As this week has passed, yet again many events filled out time. From teaching to tracting and everything in between. Another p-day is graciously welcomed, yet, a drive to do more and help others grows stronger with every passing day. We have been able (hopefully) to help others recognize a little bit more of the gospel in their lives.
There were not too many "wow" or "crazy" miracles this week but we were able to have some interesting tracting experiences. I have previously told you about the Atheist man we knocked into; here I have another, similar experience.
In a small town named Carson, missionaries have knocked every door more than a few times, but we had an appointment fall through and decided to go knock some doors. The first two or three were almost general:
Us: "Hello! How are you?" :)
Them: "What do you want?" :|
Us: "We are missio..." :)
Them: "I can see that. Talked with you a month ago. Not interested." :|
Us: "Are you..."
Them: Door slam
Us:"That was louder than usual"...
By the time we got to the next door, we had "brushed off" our tracting cliches and were ready to try a new approach. We did the ole' "shave and a hair cut" and waited. A man in his 60's opened the door, said, "What do you want?" Then he stepped outside and shut the door. Before I could answer his question, he answered for me. A tirade of argumentative (and humorous) debates breathed fire form his mouth. Te poor gentleman had previously had some bad experiences with the church and was definitely not one of the immediate elect as spoken of in D&C 29:7
This man was HURT. He was SUFFERING, He (although contrary to his thoughts) was WEAK. He was those spoken of in D&C 81:5. Searching the spirit, I attempted to console this man with no avail. The more he talked, the more my heart grew to love him. I could see the hurt in his eyes, the pain that want relief. But also a CAPTOR (2 Nephi 2:27) not willing to release his prisoner. I told the man I wished him the best.
Again no miracles happened as we "undarked" his door. my soul desired the best for that man. We are called to help such persons. Mother Theresa said "Do it anyway". (Great quote, look it up)
Well, I love you...Anyway.
Love,
Elder Rex Hamblin
As this week has passed, yet again many events filled out time. From teaching to tracting and everything in between. Another p-day is graciously welcomed, yet, a drive to do more and help others grows stronger with every passing day. We have been able (hopefully) to help others recognize a little bit more of the gospel in their lives.
There were not too many "wow" or "crazy" miracles this week but we were able to have some interesting tracting experiences. I have previously told you about the Atheist man we knocked into; here I have another, similar experience.
In a small town named Carson, missionaries have knocked every door more than a few times, but we had an appointment fall through and decided to go knock some doors. The first two or three were almost general:
Us: "Hello! How are you?" :)
Them: "What do you want?" :|
Us: "We are missio..." :)
Them: "I can see that. Talked with you a month ago. Not interested." :|
Us: "Are you..."
Them: Door slam
Us:"That was louder than usual"...
By the time we got to the next door, we had "brushed off" our tracting cliches and were ready to try a new approach. We did the ole' "shave and a hair cut" and waited. A man in his 60's opened the door, said, "What do you want?" Then he stepped outside and shut the door. Before I could answer his question, he answered for me. A tirade of argumentative (and humorous) debates breathed fire form his mouth. Te poor gentleman had previously had some bad experiences with the church and was definitely not one of the immediate elect as spoken of in D&C 29:7
This man was HURT. He was SUFFERING, He (although contrary to his thoughts) was WEAK. He was those spoken of in D&C 81:5. Searching the spirit, I attempted to console this man with no avail. The more he talked, the more my heart grew to love him. I could see the hurt in his eyes, the pain that want relief. But also a CAPTOR (2 Nephi 2:27) not willing to release his prisoner. I told the man I wished him the best.
Again no miracles happened as we "undarked" his door. my soul desired the best for that man. We are called to help such persons. Mother Theresa said "Do it anyway". (Great quote, look it up)
Well, I love you...Anyway.
Love,
Elder Rex Hamblin
Monday, 22 April 2013
Email 4/22/13
Dear Mother,
Well it is good to hear that everyone is doing well. What an exciting time this is for the Eagar, AZ Stake. It will be sad to see Pres. Hunt released; he has been such a great influence not only to our stake, but also to our community and, if I am not mistaken, I do not think there has been a family in the community that has not been affected for the better because of Pres. and Sis. Hunt (even though they are a bunch a Utah fans...that might not be quite so forgiveble). I think that whoever is the next stake president has big shoes to fill.
This week has been like every other week, just too much to do and not enough time slots in our planners to do it all in. I will admit this week has been a little slower, but it has been a good week nonetheless. I just hope that you all are doing well.
This week I had an opportunity to go on an exchange with a young Elder in my district (Elder Burk is training him). We went out tracting and ran into a couple different characters. One of the men that we knocked into opened the door, saw who we were, and said "I know who you are, but if you want to come in and sit for a minute I will explain to you my theory." Of course we accepted...who would turn that down? We entered into his home and sat down. He asked us why we were there. I blatently told him that I was there for him. Confused at my response he again restated his question and I readily repeated my answer. Still confused he asked me if I was there for God or for morals, and again I told him that I was there because I knew I had a message that would change his life and again restated my answer that I was there for HIM (he did not seem to get it...). This gentleman then told me that I was there to make him conform to our morals and proceeded into a well thoughtout discouse on the "history" of religion and how it is nothing more than a pety attempt to govern people. He was not angry, in fact he encouraged what we are doing. He believes that we can spread good to people but he believes that "God" is within us. No matter what he said or how satisfied he is with his life, he needed God. We both were able to bear testimony to him that what we know is true.
This story ends there. He did not have a revelation in that moment that told him that what we said is true. We were not able to get a return appointment. I will probably never see this gentleman again, but the "moral" of my story is this--when we do all that we can, when the mighty storms beat against us, and when the devil attempts to drag us down, we must be founded upon the first and second laws of heaven. "Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men" (2 Nephi 31:20). I love you!
Love,
Elder Hamblin
Well it is good to hear that everyone is doing well. What an exciting time this is for the Eagar, AZ Stake. It will be sad to see Pres. Hunt released; he has been such a great influence not only to our stake, but also to our community and, if I am not mistaken, I do not think there has been a family in the community that has not been affected for the better because of Pres. and Sis. Hunt (even though they are a bunch a Utah fans...that might not be quite so forgiveble). I think that whoever is the next stake president has big shoes to fill.
This week has been like every other week, just too much to do and not enough time slots in our planners to do it all in. I will admit this week has been a little slower, but it has been a good week nonetheless. I just hope that you all are doing well.
This week I had an opportunity to go on an exchange with a young Elder in my district (Elder Burk is training him). We went out tracting and ran into a couple different characters. One of the men that we knocked into opened the door, saw who we were, and said "I know who you are, but if you want to come in and sit for a minute I will explain to you my theory." Of course we accepted...who would turn that down? We entered into his home and sat down. He asked us why we were there. I blatently told him that I was there for him. Confused at my response he again restated his question and I readily repeated my answer. Still confused he asked me if I was there for God or for morals, and again I told him that I was there because I knew I had a message that would change his life and again restated my answer that I was there for HIM (he did not seem to get it...). This gentleman then told me that I was there to make him conform to our morals and proceeded into a well thoughtout discouse on the "history" of religion and how it is nothing more than a pety attempt to govern people. He was not angry, in fact he encouraged what we are doing. He believes that we can spread good to people but he believes that "God" is within us. No matter what he said or how satisfied he is with his life, he needed God. We both were able to bear testimony to him that what we know is true.
This story ends there. He did not have a revelation in that moment that told him that what we said is true. We were not able to get a return appointment. I will probably never see this gentleman again, but the "moral" of my story is this--when we do all that we can, when the mighty storms beat against us, and when the devil attempts to drag us down, we must be founded upon the first and second laws of heaven. "Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men" (2 Nephi 31:20). I love you!
Love,
Elder Hamblin
Saturday, 20 April 2013
Letter 4/15/13
Dear Family,
As the week has passed, it's namy ups and downs of a roller coaster have come with it. We saw many people this week, and many of them are looking for the truth, have it RIGHT in front of them, but are not willing to take the steps to know it's true. Personally, for me, it was quite the eye opener. I thought to myself, "Now that I know it's true, do I show it's true?" Yes, I am out everyday, knocking on doors and spreading the gospel, but that is not what I am talking about. I am talking about those moments in all of our lives where we are to fend for ourselves.
With zeal we do all we can to serve others, for "How great will be our joy if we should bring may souls unto Him" (D&C 18:16). With courage we face much opposition to our calling here on earth. But, in the quiet time given to us, what do we do? In the time given to all men to "ponder the things that He has said...and prepare our minds for the morrow" (3 Nephi 17:3), how do we prepare? I realized that peoples' commitment to me is primarily based on my commitment to them. Now, I am not saying that they should commit to me for my sake, but rather I hope they commit to repent. I have to be more invested into their lives and desire eternal salvation for them more than they must want it. In short, I have to desire to keep my commitments if I ever want to hope for them to keep theirs.
This was quite the eye opener to me. I learned of the Spirit that "my investigators are only as committed as I am". Much more goes into this statement than just the surface scratch, but that is left for all of you to decide. I love you all and hope you have a great week!
Love,
Elder Rex Hamblin
As the week has passed, it's namy ups and downs of a roller coaster have come with it. We saw many people this week, and many of them are looking for the truth, have it RIGHT in front of them, but are not willing to take the steps to know it's true. Personally, for me, it was quite the eye opener. I thought to myself, "Now that I know it's true, do I show it's true?" Yes, I am out everyday, knocking on doors and spreading the gospel, but that is not what I am talking about. I am talking about those moments in all of our lives where we are to fend for ourselves.
With zeal we do all we can to serve others, for "How great will be our joy if we should bring may souls unto Him" (D&C 18:16). With courage we face much opposition to our calling here on earth. But, in the quiet time given to us, what do we do? In the time given to all men to "ponder the things that He has said...and prepare our minds for the morrow" (3 Nephi 17:3), how do we prepare? I realized that peoples' commitment to me is primarily based on my commitment to them. Now, I am not saying that they should commit to me for my sake, but rather I hope they commit to repent. I have to be more invested into their lives and desire eternal salvation for them more than they must want it. In short, I have to desire to keep my commitments if I ever want to hope for them to keep theirs.
This was quite the eye opener to me. I learned of the Spirit that "my investigators are only as committed as I am". Much more goes into this statement than just the surface scratch, but that is left for all of you to decide. I love you all and hope you have a great week!
Love,
Elder Rex Hamblin
Monday, 15 April 2013
Email 04/15/13
Dear mother,
I have not been able to see those videos yet! The computers here won't let me! Hopefully they will start to work though! Well, I am not training any more, my greenie left me. I have a new companion whom I came out with. He is 26 years old and is from Australia! Yeah, I am going to be extra nice to him so that after the mission he will fly me to his home:) It is good to see that all of my friends are leaving on a mission; it is simply the most wonderful time of the year...everyday! (If that makes any sense whatsoever...)
HURRAY FOR SHIPPA! CONGRADULATIONS! I HAVE TO GET A GRADUATION INVITATION...OR ELSE!! I am super excited for her, and for Uncle Guy. We really do have the best family in the entire world.
I am still sick of ice cream and dog hair. I honestly think that dogs should not be allowed to shed hair, it makes our members house all hairy, and they don't like that.
This week was a little slower, but it was still a good week. We found out that the lady that was recently baptized is moving to New Port, which is really good. She did not have a whole lot going for her over here, except the fact that her brother lives here. Most of her family and friends live in New Port, so that will be good for her.
Hmmm...well, i ahve run out of thoughts for this week, and I know that you hate that, but my brain is in "off" for the moment. SORRY! Well I love you all!
Love,
Elder Hamblin
I have not been able to see those videos yet! The computers here won't let me! Hopefully they will start to work though! Well, I am not training any more, my greenie left me. I have a new companion whom I came out with. He is 26 years old and is from Australia! Yeah, I am going to be extra nice to him so that after the mission he will fly me to his home:) It is good to see that all of my friends are leaving on a mission; it is simply the most wonderful time of the year...everyday! (If that makes any sense whatsoever...)
HURRAY FOR SHIPPA! CONGRADULATIONS! I HAVE TO GET A GRADUATION INVITATION...OR ELSE!! I am super excited for her, and for Uncle Guy. We really do have the best family in the entire world.
I am still sick of ice cream and dog hair. I honestly think that dogs should not be allowed to shed hair, it makes our members house all hairy, and they don't like that.
This week was a little slower, but it was still a good week. We found out that the lady that was recently baptized is moving to New Port, which is really good. She did not have a whole lot going for her over here, except the fact that her brother lives here. Most of her family and friends live in New Port, so that will be good for her.
Hmmm...well, i ahve run out of thoughts for this week, and I know that you hate that, but my brain is in "off" for the moment. SORRY! Well I love you all!
Love,
Elder Hamblin
Friday, 12 April 2013
Letter 04/08/13
Dear Family,
This past week has been crazy! But it has been one full of miracles and blessings. We had exchanges, miracles, and a POUND of ice cream! Oh yeah, and GENERAL CONFERENCE! (Yeah, its kind of a big deal)!
I just hope you all enjoyed the best weekend of the year as much as I did. We had the chance to listen to a prophet of God, plus we found out that he is human, just like the rest of us. But, he has chosen to use his agency to follow more closely the Spirit, then I think, most of us do.
But, to start off, I will tell you of the Ice Cream. In Cascade Locks (a small town on the Oregon side of our area) there is a small hamburger joint called the "Eastwind", where the portions are MUCH more than the price. Apparently there is a tradition in this district that everyone HAS to have a large cone from afretomentioned joint. The cone is 1 lb. of ice cream. I don't really feel inclined to eat much ice cream for a couple of weeks...it was fun though. Elders Rothwell, Burk, and myself all did it. Elder Heldt has already achieved said feat, and was disinclined to do it again.
While we were eating our mountainous ice cream, we called one of our investigators, Shirley. We have been teaching her for awhile, and we both thought it necessary for an "intermission".
Rewind to Sunday. We, (Elder Rothwell and I) decided to have our fast be for her. We knew she needed all the help (both physically and spiritually) she could get. She has expressed her desires to be baptized, but said she DOES NOT want to quit coffee. We have prayed, and now fasted, for Shirley to have the desire to quit.
FASTING WORKS, PRAYER WORKS! not only did she say she had quit coffee, but she had read 10 chapters in the Book of Mormon. Miracles are evident everywhere.
Anyway, I am being split from Elder Rothwell. He has been a great companion. I am staying here in White Salmon and Stevenson until further notice. I LOVE IT HERE! :)
I love you all,
Love, Elder Rex Hamblin
P.S. Thank you for all the packages. They are very much appreciated and needed. They let me know how much you all care. Thank-you! But, if you send any more packages PLEASE no more candy. As much as I LOVE it, it is starting to really pile up and we are giving most of it away. I REALLY appreciate the love though. YOU ARE THE BEST!
Dear Family,
This past week has been crazy! But it has been one full of miracles and blessings. We had exchanges, miracles, and a POUND of ice cream! Oh yeah, and GENERAL CONFERENCE! (Yeah, its kind of a big deal)!
I just hope you all enjoyed the best weekend of the year as much as I did. We had the chance to listen to a prophet of God, plus we found out that he is human, just like the rest of us. But, he has chosen to use his agency to follow more closely the Spirit, then I think, most of us do.
But, to start off, I will tell you of the Ice Cream. In Cascade Locks (a small town on the Oregon side of our area) there is a small hamburger joint called the "Eastwind", where the portions are MUCH more than the price. Apparently there is a tradition in this district that everyone HAS to have a large cone from afretomentioned joint. The cone is 1 lb. of ice cream. I don't really feel inclined to eat much ice cream for a couple of weeks...it was fun though. Elders Rothwell, Burk, and myself all did it. Elder Heldt has already achieved said feat, and was disinclined to do it again.
While we were eating our mountainous ice cream, we called one of our investigators, Shirley. We have been teaching her for awhile, and we both thought it necessary for an "intermission".
Rewind to Sunday. We, (Elder Rothwell and I) decided to have our fast be for her. We knew she needed all the help (both physically and spiritually) she could get. She has expressed her desires to be baptized, but said she DOES NOT want to quit coffee. We have prayed, and now fasted, for Shirley to have the desire to quit.
FASTING WORKS, PRAYER WORKS! not only did she say she had quit coffee, but she had read 10 chapters in the Book of Mormon. Miracles are evident everywhere.
Anyway, I am being split from Elder Rothwell. He has been a great companion. I am staying here in White Salmon and Stevenson until further notice. I LOVE IT HERE! :)
I love you all,
Love, Elder Rex Hamblin
P.S. Thank you for all the packages. They are very much appreciated and needed. They let me know how much you all care. Thank-you! But, if you send any more packages PLEASE no more candy. As much as I LOVE it, it is starting to really pile up and we are giving most of it away. I REALLY appreciate the love though. YOU ARE THE BEST!
Email 4/08/13
Dear Mother,
This past week has been very rewarding. I was able to go on an exchange with Elder Burk again. It is amazing to see the progress he has made. We were able to witness miracles as the week went on. Just for one; the missionaries here in Stevenson have been working with an investigator since November--Shirley. She has been such an amazing person to work with, but does NOT want to give up coffee. Elder Rothwell and I have thought of just dropping her for a few week to let her soothe things over. Last Sunday we decided to fast for her though. The week wore on and finally we had the chance to go and see her. We called her up on Friday to set up an appointment and she told us that she had been off coffee for the past 5 days! She said that with the start of the new month, she "just decided to do it." We also could not get her to read the Book of Mormon and when we came on Friday she said that she had read 10 chapters! Christ said it best: "This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting."
So what mission do you think that I will be in? Vancouver or Kennewick? Ask the fam!
And yes I am recieving a new companion. I would usually train for 6 weeks, but Elder Rothwell is leaving. I am recieving Elder Wilmott, the Australian. This is going to be fun.
Love you all,
Elder Hamblin
This past week has been very rewarding. I was able to go on an exchange with Elder Burk again. It is amazing to see the progress he has made. We were able to witness miracles as the week went on. Just for one; the missionaries here in Stevenson have been working with an investigator since November--Shirley. She has been such an amazing person to work with, but does NOT want to give up coffee. Elder Rothwell and I have thought of just dropping her for a few week to let her soothe things over. Last Sunday we decided to fast for her though. The week wore on and finally we had the chance to go and see her. We called her up on Friday to set up an appointment and she told us that she had been off coffee for the past 5 days! She said that with the start of the new month, she "just decided to do it." We also could not get her to read the Book of Mormon and when we came on Friday she said that she had read 10 chapters! Christ said it best: "This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting."
So what mission do you think that I will be in? Vancouver or Kennewick? Ask the fam!
And yes I am recieving a new companion. I would usually train for 6 weeks, but Elder Rothwell is leaving. I am recieving Elder Wilmott, the Australian. This is going to be fun.
Love you all,
Elder Hamblin
Letter 4/01/13
Dear Family,
All chaos filled this week as we had many plans and goals to fulfill. (Again, writing this in a car). A strong wind blew in a flurry of baptisms for our district. With mriacles and answered prayers workiing in our favor, eyes enlightened by the gratitude fo God filled our minds and humility is all that could be seen. Elder Heldt and Elder burk were able to get their miracle family married and baptized this week as we, too, were able to see one of our investigators get baptized.
Tuesday begins the crazy week. I was on an exchange with Elder Heldt in White Salmon, and we did service for a potential investigator named Dana. We cleaned out his house and set up an appointment for later that evening. We did something between our two appointments, and then returned for our appointment. As we talked with him it became very evident how the gospel could bless his life. With dips into drugs, alcohol, and other "worldly things" he decided to change his life. A couple of years ago he quit drugs and has been clean for about two years. As he began to tackle all of his other indulgences, he recognized the need for God in his life. with the passing of his girlfriend, he decided he needed religion now more than ever.
As we continued our conversation, he told us that he had met with missionaries before. he knew it was the right thing to do, but felt ashamed because of his worldly influences. He felt as if he could no longer meet with missionaries. So, as we talked, we told him about baptism, something he greatly desired. When we told him the Joseph Smith story, he basically recited the First Vision back to us! It was an amazing experience.
As Saturday rolled around, we prepared for the baptism. when Jenny & her brother got to the church, He (Alex) was more excited than she was. He exclaimed, "Finally! after 15 years! Finally!" He was baptized when he was 19, and has been waiting for his twin sister to do the same. As Alex baptized Jenny, the burden seemed to be lifted off of HIS shoulders. It was amazing to see how the Doctrine of Jesus Christ was at work with this family, How the gospel unified these siblings!
Well, I have to go, but I love you all!
Love,
Elder Rex Hamblin
All chaos filled this week as we had many plans and goals to fulfill. (Again, writing this in a car). A strong wind blew in a flurry of baptisms for our district. With mriacles and answered prayers workiing in our favor, eyes enlightened by the gratitude fo God filled our minds and humility is all that could be seen. Elder Heldt and Elder burk were able to get their miracle family married and baptized this week as we, too, were able to see one of our investigators get baptized.
Tuesday begins the crazy week. I was on an exchange with Elder Heldt in White Salmon, and we did service for a potential investigator named Dana. We cleaned out his house and set up an appointment for later that evening. We did something between our two appointments, and then returned for our appointment. As we talked with him it became very evident how the gospel could bless his life. With dips into drugs, alcohol, and other "worldly things" he decided to change his life. A couple of years ago he quit drugs and has been clean for about two years. As he began to tackle all of his other indulgences, he recognized the need for God in his life. with the passing of his girlfriend, he decided he needed religion now more than ever.
As we continued our conversation, he told us that he had met with missionaries before. he knew it was the right thing to do, but felt ashamed because of his worldly influences. He felt as if he could no longer meet with missionaries. So, as we talked, we told him about baptism, something he greatly desired. When we told him the Joseph Smith story, he basically recited the First Vision back to us! It was an amazing experience.
As Saturday rolled around, we prepared for the baptism. when Jenny & her brother got to the church, He (Alex) was more excited than she was. He exclaimed, "Finally! after 15 years! Finally!" He was baptized when he was 19, and has been waiting for his twin sister to do the same. As Alex baptized Jenny, the burden seemed to be lifted off of HIS shoulders. It was amazing to see how the Doctrine of Jesus Christ was at work with this family, How the gospel unified these siblings!
Well, I have to go, but I love you all!
Love,
Elder Rex Hamblin
Monday, 1 April 2013
Email 4/01/13
Dear Mother,
This past week has been busy and miracle. As a mission we set a "Rolling Three" goal. This is something that the General Authorities put out to missions to help them succeed their goals. We take a look at the investigators we have and decide how many we can get to baptism in the current month and in the next two months. We also do the same for how many we will find and baptize and how many we think the ward will bring in. This has been on the companionship level, but at the beginning of the year, Pres. Greer decided to do it as a mission. This month we had a goal of 55 baptisms; upto last week we had only 35. In the e-mail to the mission Pres. & Sis. Greer asked us all to pray in every prayer for our mission goal. We just got an e-mail this morning saying that we did it! Everyone has worked so hard in our mission and we were able to accomplish our goals. Now we have the goal of 50 for April and 64 for May. Pray for us!
Elder Rothwell and I were able to help in that goal and were able to help someone come into the waters of baptism. It was awesome! Our district had 3 baptisms this week! That has never been done before in this district! everyone is working hard, and I am grateful to be part of the work here in White Salmon and Stevenson. I would tell you about it now, but then I would have nothing to write to you in my letter! We also were blessed to find someone who is ready for the gospel. We met with him and were able to put him on-date in the first lesson. The work is really progressing. I love you and hope that you have a great week!
Love,
Elder Hamblin
This past week has been busy and miracle. As a mission we set a "Rolling Three" goal. This is something that the General Authorities put out to missions to help them succeed their goals. We take a look at the investigators we have and decide how many we can get to baptism in the current month and in the next two months. We also do the same for how many we will find and baptize and how many we think the ward will bring in. This has been on the companionship level, but at the beginning of the year, Pres. Greer decided to do it as a mission. This month we had a goal of 55 baptisms; upto last week we had only 35. In the e-mail to the mission Pres. & Sis. Greer asked us all to pray in every prayer for our mission goal. We just got an e-mail this morning saying that we did it! Everyone has worked so hard in our mission and we were able to accomplish our goals. Now we have the goal of 50 for April and 64 for May. Pray for us!
Elder Rothwell and I were able to help in that goal and were able to help someone come into the waters of baptism. It was awesome! Our district had 3 baptisms this week! That has never been done before in this district! everyone is working hard, and I am grateful to be part of the work here in White Salmon and Stevenson. I would tell you about it now, but then I would have nothing to write to you in my letter! We also were blessed to find someone who is ready for the gospel. We met with him and were able to put him on-date in the first lesson. The work is really progressing. I love you and hope that you have a great week!
Love,
Elder Hamblin
Letter 3/25/13
Dear Family
This past week has been full of trainings. To start last Sunday we met with Elder Risenmay of the 70's. Then Tuesday was our P-day and we got a special trip to the Portland Temple. It always is good to be in the Lord's Holy Home. We, as missionaries get to feel this sacred Spirit as we enter into many homes. Wednesday we also had the chance to go to another training in Vancouver. The training didn't start until 10:00 in the afternoon (haha). We had about 1 1/2 hours between studies and when we needed to leave. We have been teaching a lady who is about 75 and recently broke her femur. We helped her re-plant one of her trees and then went to teach her. We have taught her many times but she just never quite "got it". For this lesson in particular we were teaching her about the Atonement.
In preparation for General Conference, President and Sister Greer have asked us to read certain chapters in the Book of Mormon on the Atonement. On this particular day I had read Alma 7: 11-13 which meant a little bit more that day. Not only was she suffering physically, but also spiritually and mentally with family issues. How great was my joy when I had the ability from God to share with her those scriptures! I don't think they meant much to her, but they took on a whole new meaning for me.
Thursday rolled around with another training in Vancouver. It was a wonderfully insightful training which inspired me to change many things in my missionary efforts. Along with all the other trainings that I had throughout the week, i found many things I could be doing better. I found that the Atonemet is central for this purpose.
The "good, better, best" principle is only capable through the atonement of Christ. With Eternal progression dependent on the opposition we receive, we are able to "put one foot in front of the other" and learn from each step. The harder the opposition, the greater the opportunity to learn. WE change, we grow. What is the definition of repentance? Changing and becoming. Even without sinning we are dependent on the Atonement to help us change; Thus repentance is so much deeper than asking for forgiveness.
I love you all and hope you have a great week!
Love,
Elder Rex Hamblin
This past week has been full of trainings. To start last Sunday we met with Elder Risenmay of the 70's. Then Tuesday was our P-day and we got a special trip to the Portland Temple. It always is good to be in the Lord's Holy Home. We, as missionaries get to feel this sacred Spirit as we enter into many homes. Wednesday we also had the chance to go to another training in Vancouver. The training didn't start until 10:00 in the afternoon (haha). We had about 1 1/2 hours between studies and when we needed to leave. We have been teaching a lady who is about 75 and recently broke her femur. We helped her re-plant one of her trees and then went to teach her. We have taught her many times but she just never quite "got it". For this lesson in particular we were teaching her about the Atonement.
In preparation for General Conference, President and Sister Greer have asked us to read certain chapters in the Book of Mormon on the Atonement. On this particular day I had read Alma 7: 11-13 which meant a little bit more that day. Not only was she suffering physically, but also spiritually and mentally with family issues. How great was my joy when I had the ability from God to share with her those scriptures! I don't think they meant much to her, but they took on a whole new meaning for me.
Thursday rolled around with another training in Vancouver. It was a wonderfully insightful training which inspired me to change many things in my missionary efforts. Along with all the other trainings that I had throughout the week, i found many things I could be doing better. I found that the Atonemet is central for this purpose.
The "good, better, best" principle is only capable through the atonement of Christ. With Eternal progression dependent on the opposition we receive, we are able to "put one foot in front of the other" and learn from each step. The harder the opposition, the greater the opportunity to learn. WE change, we grow. What is the definition of repentance? Changing and becoming. Even without sinning we are dependent on the Atonement to help us change; Thus repentance is so much deeper than asking for forgiveness.
I love you all and hope you have a great week!
Love,
Elder Rex Hamblin
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