Monday

Hi Dad!!

Happy Fourth of July! I love Dad campouts I'm so glad she was able to go with you too. I'm learning a lot on what it means to build up the Lord's Kingdom and his expectations of us as faithful Disciples of Christ. I'm learning what the Atonement means, what our life really should be composed of and sooo many many false assumptions I have had about life.

My companion and I are riding bikes most of these days. We have met so many people from all over the world- Nigeria, Pakistan, Nicaragua, South Africa, Turkey, Vietnam, India- we are beginning to count and we have met people from over 50 different countries. I've learned conviction is nothing until it is turned to conduct. Prayers are really answered, Repentance is real and the Lord is always please but never satisfied. I've working to completely give my will over to Him. It is hard.

I would like to tell two stories since I don't have much time. Thanks for the story about Brea- I will keep her in my prayers- and don't worry no distractions- prayers are better than being there in person :)

Eric Gomez is a man from Nicaragua who was an atheist for over 10 years- he came to the u.s. to work and send money back to take care of two of his children- He was intrigued by the way the church handles themselves and (riding bikes in skirts! ha ha) I explained the restoration and unlike the cross of Christ's crucifixion held by many churches , the symbol of our belief is how we live our lives. ( I have always liked the idea that the gift I give is the way that I live) He agreed to have us come over and teach- then he came began to come to church- Fast forward three weeks to know- Eric has told us he has felt enlightened- that "something" is growing in him and he learning what faith is Jesus Christ is. He is quitting is job at illegal bar (they sell alcohol after two in the morning!) and will be looking for another job. He is completely changing his life around to come closer to our Heavenly Father and he will be baptized on my Birthday!!! If all stays on track :)

Javier is a 25 and one of his friends was murdered about three or four months ago- he thinks he knows who did it and has been struggling with understanding what Justice is and wants to take care of things himself- He didn't know who God is, or Jesus Christ, or how to pray- We taught him about the Plan of Salvation and the 10 commandments and what Heavenly Father wants from him. He said to us " I felt something when I read that scriptures- what is that?" We explained what the Holy Ghost is- he is very genuine as well- He wants to be as happy as he sees we are- he wants to change his life but admitted he was scared or wants to take care of things first " we quickly explained what Heavenly Father asks of us and what humility is"

I know this is the work of our God, and that no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing. I feel so privileged to have this opportunity to serve. I will ride my bike until it breaks, I will walk until I just fall and then crawl until i can only sit and talk to people that pass by me- I want to have the earnest zeal and determination from the Love and knowledge of Heavenly Father's plan for us. I know Joseph Smith was a prophet and that through revelation Christ has established His Church again on the earth. That we may all return to him as a family- I want our family to return to Heavenly Father again as well so you aren't alone on that one :) I know that Happiness only comes from aligning our will completely with his, complete consecration of ourselves because really...he has given us everything we have...the only thing we have to give is ourselves.

I love you so much- I pray for our family daily and I know everything will work out according the Lord's will. Thank you for teaching me about Jesus Christ.

Your favorite oldest daughter :)

Jess

P.s. Send to mom please I forgot!