If nothing changes...nothing changes
I love when we learn from children because they are direct and open hearted. With in seconds of Grandpa being asked to come sit on the stand as a counselor in the Ponta Delgada Branch Presidency, sweet Laura, age 9, came to sit in his empty chair next to me. And her simple act of love changed my busy morning mode and made me want to be present and kind to others all day as well.
I think Heavenly Father knows that we all need to see the world through new eyes and so He gives us families. There is something about being a grandparent that is impossible to describe...but it changes your heart forever. It makes sense that we must become as a child, learn to listen to Him, and learn to love like Him.
Paulo and Laura invited us to come to their home for a visit. Paulo, studied to become a minister, but in searching for truth he joined the church and now works with hotels as does Laura, who is an excellent cook. Their daughter is studying Humanities in high school and is now taking the missionary lessons. Their kind generous preparations were delicious!
We miss all of you very much. So thankful for the times you can all get together and the kind and varied ways you support each other. We feel that we are where we need to be right now and hope to learn what we need to know and to serve the best we can with the time we have left.
The invitation we are giving to people is very simple. We want to invite everyone to feel the love of our Heavenly Father. The Eternal kindness of our Savior is something we love to share as it can change lives and we can see happiness grow in the eyes of those who learn of and live His Gospel. At times people say they believe but they don't want to change. It can become discouraging when we think of the many blessings they are giving up... and for what? And we look at our own lives and what is formost in our hearts to make sure we are trying to put Our Savior in first place as well.
The scripture that gives us peace is in John 10: 27-28. So, ours is a little part...we must find those who want to hear His voice. Though we want the whole world to partake...it will be those who come with a sincere heart, with real intent, who have faith in Christ that are looking for and wanting to be found that will actually partake. And they become an example and inspiration for all of us! Que Maravilhosa!
Rosaria(pink apron top) makes lunch for the missionaries on Wednesdays at noon. Arnaldo and Rosaria are such quiet and kind people. Lucia (left) joined in this day. She was called as the new Relief Society President as Rosaria was just released. Such sweet women. Arnaldo and Rosaria always start with Prayer and a Missionary message and then another prayer to bless the delicious food.
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Our Popcorn balls and Krispy treats were a hit at the branch activity. We showed the movie: "The Fighting Preacher'. It was well received by all and we had a good attendance! Its a show well worth watching! Thursday nights we have an activity and many of the sisters bring some refreshment. Fun!
Ruben and his boys came to church this past Sunday. If we desire to change...each of us can. As we learn more about our Savior and His life, we long to change ours. And He will help us...if we ask.
Grandpa and I love His Gospel Plan.
Please give each other hugs. Read your scriptures. Be kind to everyone you see and to those you don't.
We Love YOU!
