There's just something
about being a full time servant of the Lord, especially around Christmas, that
makes the season unforgettable for sure! This week I just couldn't wipe a smile
off my face! It just gradually got bigger and bigger as the week progressed.
Even the littlest things brought so much joy to me. Here are some highlights:
- Sister Thorson and I
went tracting and OYMing (knocking doors and opening our mouth to anyone who passed
us by) and we didn't have too great of success BUT I did notice a few people
walk away with a smile instead of a frown so hey, progress!! We saw this mother
near her last straw with her rowdy, disheveled children and we walked up
and talked to them and her kids asked for candy-canes. I think they thought we
looked like Santa or something ;) ha, ha, but we had little chocolates to save the
day!
- We had a great time
celebrating Christmas together as missionaries with many families in the wards.
We spent Christmas Eve with a less active member named Alice. She was a hoot!! I love
that the Lord knows exactly where we all are on this journey of life and
places people in our path for a reason. Alice may have thought she needed us to
brighten the season but truly she put the cherry on top for us!
- I felt such
overwhelming love from loved ones at home that sent cards, letters, presents
and love and prayers my way. I'll be honest it was tough being away from family
during Christmas but the Lord sure comforted me more than ever and you all
helped to lift my spirits so thank you so much! I love and appreciate you
all. :)
- I GOT TO SEE MY
FAMILYYYYYY!! :) This really should've been first but, best for last
right? ;) he, he! Guys, I don't think you can fully realize how HARD it is to be
away from the people I love the most, geez Louise! I can't even fully put it
into words myself. But seeing their sweet smiling faces and hearing about
what's new and exciting to them.. And them letting me PA-ramble on... Seeing
friends who mean the world to me... I was filled with the reassurance that I'm
where I need to be. I know that Jesus Christ was born, lived and went through
all He did so that when we face our hardest, best, lowest or any time
in-between He is right there to comfort! We are NEVER alone. I am so grateful
for the plan of happiness that we know because of the restoration of the
fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the very same things Christ taught when
He was on the earth, all restored. I do not know everything but this much I do
know- He loves me, He loves you, He cares about us and wants us to be happy, to
find peace and achieve our full potential! He has never and will never leave us
alone. This Christmas season I really truly realized that more than ever that
when we put other's first, we are blessed beyond measure! May we continue to
keep the spirit of CHRISTmas with us. I love you all! Have a happy and blessed
new year!
~Sister McDonald
Ponderize: "yea,
he was swallowed up in the joy of his God, even to the exhausting of his
strength!" Alma 27:17 I hope to be even more diligent this week!:)
Quote: " Are we doing what matters most? Press forward even amid
affliction!" ~Elder Bednar (Sun Afternoon Session)
I love her! What a testimony! Kimber couldn't be any more beautiful as when her testimony is shining through those beautiful eyes of hers. Love that girl.
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