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