2nd to Last Letter

5/16/2010

It has been a great week. One of those weeks that I will never forget- ever. It began with a wonderful zone conference. We learned some great things that will help me a lot in the work; especially here in Antwerpen. There was also a very special moment for me when I was able to give my departing testimony. As I prayed for guidance of what I should share,
I was clearly guided to bear the testimony I have developed of our Savior as a Redeemer. I talked about how I have learned and seen that because the Savior overcame physical Death, the biggest weakness we as humans possess, He overcame the biggest fault we inherited with the fall. If he overcame that fault, then His atoning, redeeming sacrifice is surely great enough to help us overcome the other faults and weaknesses that we inherited when we began our journey here on earth with our natural man, and also those we have gained along the way. There is nothing that stands between us and perfection now that Christ overcame the weaknesses of the flesh. It is one of the biggest lessons I have learned and learned to understand on my mission, and I felt so good sharing it. It was a bit difficult to give the testimony, but I didn't even cry really. It just felt right.

The highlight of the week; however; was the baptism of Heidi and Marie Therese yesterday. IT was the best baptismal service I have ever seen! The ward had organized everything so wonderfully and cared for the refreshments and lots of them stayed after the block for the service. Heidi and Marie Therese were beaming, and I was too! After missing the baptisms of the last 3 investigators that I set baptismal dates with, I was adjusted to the idea of missing this one, but I am so grateful that I was able to be here to witness it. I felt so much joy, seeing the fruits of the labor we perform here on the mission. Heidi and Marie Therese are two of my eternal friends, and I love them so much. Heidi even said that she'll come visit me in America! It was a neat experience. One I will definitely never forget. There are two new amazing members now in the Antwerpen, Belgie ward, and I am honored to be able to witness the beginning of their journey on the Gospel path. It made me want to do a little better and be a bit more proactive in honoring my own baptismal covenants. There will be another baptism next week of a young man who is prepared for baptism, and Heidi and Marie Therese will be confirmed. What a wonderful way to end my mission.

Well, its crunch time, and we've got a great week planned! I have just enough time to tackle a few more of those weaknesses and consecrate myself a little more to the work. I had a special experience yesterday where I prayed and told the Lord that I just couldn't end my mission without his help and comfort; and He blessed me with such a wonderful feeling of peace and helped me forget about the changes coming while I was working. Heavenly Father is so powerful! He really can do ANYTHING necessary to help us out. My comp is doing great. I have full confidence in her ability to take over the city and take the work even further here. While I was on exchanges this week, she even set a baptismal date with one of our investigators. She's doing great, and growing in confidence daily. I love her!

Mission life is great. I laugh, cry, feel overwhelming joy, and mostly just rejoice in this great opportunity! Everyone should go on a mission!

I love you all! Give each other hugs for me. Ik hou van jullie!

Liefs,
Zuster Cherie Gulliver