Hola de su Misionera aqui en Napa!

 

This week was just so wonderful! Jesus Medina is progressing more than ever (even though he didn't come to church). We taught him 5 days this week in preparing him for baptism. One of those lessons a less active member around the same age as Jesus came with us who shared powerful testimony of the direction that the Book of Mormon can give in the lives of those who not only read it, but study and apply the principles taught within. It was an amazing experience for us all. We went to the Baptism of an investigator the Elders had,9 year old child from a less active family. It was powerful, the spirit was so strong. Truly witnessing such an ordinance, godliness is manifest. We went to Calistoga for the first time in a couple weeks, its hard to go sometimes because its far and we have few miles, and that amazing family Sister Buckner and I found while on exchanges, the husband is a new investigator and wants to know more. He committed to read the Book of Mormon and seems really excited to learn more about his relationship with his Heavenly Father. So excited to go back and teach him. We also went service tracting this week and found a FAMILY! We are also stoked to go back and teach them next week!

 

Yesterday was Father's Day! Happy late Fathers Day Dad and Brett and Stephen and Nando! I love each of you. Dad & Brett! I am so lucky to have such amazing examples to me in my life. Your cards are coming late, Sorry! I promise I didn't forget just being a missionary is busy work and well yeah I guess I have never been a very timely person.

 

It being Father's Day, I had the opportunity to give a talk in our Branch about Heavenly Father. I shared a story about Dad and related it to how our heavenly Father works. It was humbling speaking in Spanish in front of those I respect and love, but the Lord helped me say what I wanted. I love speaking Spanish. Finally I have made a breakthrough and the fear of speaking to people, Spanish or English is dissolving almost gone, some days are better than others still though. This is the Last week before transfers and I am afraid that Hermana Chavez is leaving Napa. We will find out Friday what's up, but I have a feeling I will stay in Napa another transfer. I hope so, I love it here so so so much.

 

I want to end my email this week with a scripture from the Book of Mormon that explains how I feel better than I can:

 

"...Perhaps I may be an instrument in the hands of God to bring some soul to repentance; and this is my joy. And behold, when I see many of my brethren truly penitent, and coming to the Lord their God, then is my soul filled with joy; then do I remember what the Lord has done for me, yea, even that he hath heard my prayer; yea, then do I remember his merciful arm which he extended towards me." (Alma 29:9-10)

Truly I have seen the Lord's merciful hand directing my life. His extended arm never fails to lift me up and take me where I need to go. I have seen similar workings of the Lord in the lives of others. I see as the lives are changes and challenges are overcome. I have the opportunity to see hearts softened and help given to those who ask the Lord in faith. To watch as others receive light into their lives and slowly it replaces confusion and doubt. I see that change happening to me as well, and I am learning each day, more of who I am meant to be, of who I really am.

Thank you all for your support and love, you are in my prayers,

 

Hermana Christina Wise