12/15/14
Can
hardly believe it, but the time has come! I'm transferring home. This past week
has been filled with the most amazing things; a lot of reflecting and a
profound sense of gratitude. I'm convinced I've gotten the best last week of my
mission possible!
I was able to have two
trips to the LA temple--one as a whole mission, and one with all of the
departing missionaries. Then to top it off, I am going to the temple again this
Tuesday, the last night of my mission, to be there as my recent convert Glenn
goes through the temple for the first time! I am sooo thrilled and blessed.
Words can't even begin to express it.
This past weekend we
had Stake Conference in Canoga Park. Elder Neil L Anderson of the Quorum of the
Twelve Apostles came and spoke Saturday and Sunday, as well as a
YSA fireside Sunday evening. He is absolutely amazing and I know
without a doubt that he is an Apostle of the Lord! I was able to shake his
hand, and he thanked me for my service (: Such a kind man. Filled with the
Spirit. His words and testimony had a deep impact on me.
We had a ward Christmas program yesterday, with a little pie party after as a farewell for me. This is the best ward ever, I love each person so much and they have treated me well! I've found lifelong friends here.
There are so many
things I could say, and so much I feel in my heart, it's overwhelming! But the
main thing is my love of the Savior. I have become more on my mission than I
ever thought possible. I know without a doubt that Jesus Christ is my personal
Savior, and that He is the only way to
ultimate happiness and joy. I know the gospel is a gospel of transformation. It
truly shapes us into the people God knows we can become, and outlines for us
how to receive all the blessings God wants us to have. I'm grateful to have had
this time to really allow the gospel to seep into me, and become a part of my
very core. It means everything to me. I am nothing without it.
I have come to know of
the reality of a living Father in Heaven who's love is vast and deep and
all-encompassing. He knows me--and each of us. Our fears, inadequacies,
concerns, mistakes, short-comings, strengths, aspirations, everything! And He
is there to help, no matter where we are at. No matter what. He answers
prayers. He really does communicate with us.
I know that as we are
faithful, all things work together for our good. The reason we are here is to
learn and be tutored and shaped. As we allow ourselves to be molded by God
through our experiences, we are fulfilling our purpose. We just need to hold to
Him, no matter what.
The peace, direction,
purpose, clarity, love, and all things good that come from living a life
consecrated to God is priceless. There is great power that comes from
establishing a pattern of prayer, serious scripture study, and active
participation in church. It is real. I know it.
I could go on and on!
But just know that this really, truly has been the best experience of my entire
life. I have had the BEST mission in the world. I wouldn't trade it for
anything, and I am going home with no regrets. I am completely indebted to my
God. I love Him and the Savior with all my heart!
With much love,
Sister Bishop
Mission temple trip
with my favorites. (L2)
Our
Christmas booth at CSUN!
Departing temple trip
<3
Last Sunday with
Bishop and Sister Patton
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