tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19802753626319784632024-03-05T06:30:38.893-08:00It's A Wonderful Life Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-82971943606814581842015-09-13T20:09:00.000-07:002015-09-13T20:10:35.173-07:00<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">It’s a Long, Long Road From Here Back To Ohio<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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I never thought stepping onto that airplane would be so
difficult. 18 months of memories flooded my mind as I walked to that gate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I looked back and waved to a couple that had
shaped my life in countless ways, who become my family away from family. How
grateful I am for President and Sister Daines, and the tremendous amount of
love and service they render.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love
them and am grateful for their diligent examples. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZ7BQ-hMln-j42V2t03EK5C7Ku1R18zcelXz28oGZsCPl-o75RaQwfdlk9YVVlEJIUAo1kOb1wbM8OjJR6ou9d_tt5nLadkWEIVaLQJO0zKL5PgBH0yC1d2afXdW3W5N34ZKOV7f98AWQ/s1600/leaving+the+mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZ7BQ-hMln-j42V2t03EK5C7Ku1R18zcelXz28oGZsCPl-o75RaQwfdlk9YVVlEJIUAo1kOb1wbM8OjJR6ou9d_tt5nLadkWEIVaLQJO0zKL5PgBH0yC1d2afXdW3W5N34ZKOV7f98AWQ/s320/leaving+the+mission.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was excited to continue to share the gospel on the plane
but lo and behold I sat next to members of the church on all three of my
flights! I pondered the joy and the blessings that had come into my life from
serving a mission, I contemplated how forever changed I was because of that
incredible decision to serve. I prayed and prayed again and thanked my Heavenly
Father with tears of joy and gratitude for trusting me enough to serve Him, and
to wear His precious Son’s name. I thought about the many people who allowed me
to come into their lives and testify of the Savior to them. I thought about the
laughs we had, the feelings of complete exhaustion I faced, the times we got
caught in the pouring rain yet still joyfully shouted “hurrah for Israel!” I
thought about the times where I had to trust deeply in my Savior and His
ability to carry me or fill me with His love. I was full of complete gratitude
when I pondered how my testimony had grown and will continue to grow. I thought
about the members who welcomed us into their home where the Spirit was present,
and where I saw what I wanted to model my future family after.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So many memories, so many life changing
experiences,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>so much love for my Savior
and my Father in Heaven.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As the plane landed in Nevada I was nervous, anxious,
excited, scared, emotional, joyful, peaceful all at the same time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought about how in just moments I would
be reunited with my loving family after 18 months of being separated, but I
also thought about the family in Ohio I had just left. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I came down the escalator nothing but
pure joy filled my heart when I saw my family. I ran to my mother and father
and thanked them for allowing me to serve a mission. I was embraced in arms of
love from so many that I cherish. It was a priceless tender moment that will be
impossible to forget. <o:p></o:p></div>
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the hardest things I’ve ever done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Emotional, I took off that piece of plastic that defined who I was
everywhere I went.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That in bold letters
had the Savior’s name…and my own. How grateful I am though to forever be a
witness of our Savior Jesus Christ. Nametag or no nametag I will forever stand
by Him, represent Him, and defend Him.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The adjustment for any return missionary is never easy. Yes
sometimes I’m awkward. Yes it has been difficult, yes I miss serving all day
everyday, but this is a new chapter and I look forward to seeing how the Lord
will continue to use me as His instrument as I strive to live close to Him and
abide daily by His teachings. <o:p></o:p></div>
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To say that I loved my mission is an understatement. A piece
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There are many things I love in this life, and being a
full-time missionary easily is at the top of this list. I loved that time I
had, I loved who the Lord has helped me to become. I love missionary work, and
I love my Savior. Families truly are forever. How grateful I am for mine that continues
to grow. I sure love you all, and want you to know how very special you are to
me. You mean the world to me, and most importantly you mean the world to your
Heavenly Father. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--EndFragment--> Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-24948991050098143952015-08-20T22:29:00.001-07:002015-08-20T22:29:50.299-07:00These Are Days Never To Be Forgotten <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reunion with Emily Daines, Sister Wagstaff and Sister Ure at Stake Conference</td></tr>
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My Mission summed up in 150 words:</div>
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.699219);">Oliver Cowdery in helping Joseph Smith translate the Book Of Mormon said, "these are days never to be forgotten." There is nothing more sacred and more full of pure joy than being a set apart servant of the Lord. Your mission is full of days never to be forgotten. I love my Savior. I have come to learn of the potential I can have </span><i style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.699219);">only</i><span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.699219);"> through Him. Without Him I am weak, but with Him "I can do all things." I marvel at the amount of courage and love it took for Him to leave His royal courts above and dwell in the most humble circumstances, to be despised, spat upon, cast out, rejected and betrayed. I cannot wait for that day when I will kneel before His face with tears rushing down mine and gratitude in my heart. I think I will truly be amazed with how familiar He is to me, with the very scars He acquired for me. I look forward to that day and strive to live in a way that I can hear those uttered words "well done thy good and faithful servant....thy faith hath made the whole."<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little friend and her "Sister Mathis" Barbie </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Probably my last missionary lesson in Ohio</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hocking Hills Hike</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farewell Ohio, God Be With You Till We Meet Again.</td></tr>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-47144308084394103752015-08-10T09:07:00.001-07:002015-08-10T09:07:17.509-07:00The Good Experiences Always Out Power the Challenges Even if They Don't Outnumber Them<br />
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Hi guys! I can't believe this is probably the last email I will write as a full time missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. My heart is being torn in so many different directions at the thought of my full time missionary service coming to an end.</div>
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We had a more challenging week this last week and it's funny how grateful I have become for weeks like that throughout my mission. Many of our scheduled appointments fell through and we also invested a large portion of our time tracting trying to find people to teach which makes any day go by at the pace of an aging snail. Throughout the week though I was reminded of a quote President Daines once said. He said "the good experiences will not always <i>outnumber</i> the challenging days or the hard experiences but they will always <i>out power</i> them." </div>
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This morning as I read in the beginning of the Book Of Mormon I felt such an immense gratitude for the strong and courageous Nephi. At the beginning of the Book Of Mormon we find that Nephi and his family are faced with many trials and hardships. They are commanded to leave Jerusalem. They leave all their precious things behind and flee with nothing but faith to guide them. Later Nephi is commanded to go back and get the plates from the wicked king Laban. After two failed attempts and a long journey that he walked with two complaining brothers just to get to Laban, instead of weakening his faith Nephi with the help of the Spirit decides to put forth his best effort and try again. Finally after the third attempt and with the Power of the Lord Nephi is able to get the plates to return to his father. One might think Hurray! Now he can rest! We know this is not the case. Later during this family's journey they find themselves somewhat helpless and starving. Nephi breaks his bow and the family wonders how they will now get food. Because of the Spirit Nephi was patient in his afflictions and trusted that the Lord would deliver him, and that He did. For 8 years Nephi and his family traveled in the wilderness eating raw meat, children were born that he tended to and cared for. It was by no means an easy journey. Finally they reach the land Bountiful that is beautiful and full of fruit yet their faith is still tried as the Lord commands Nephi to build ship so that the family can sail to the promised land because they still had not reached their destination. Nephi doesn't question the Lord but immediately asks the Lord where he can go to get the materials to make the ship. Once the ship is made and they are sailing across the sea Nephi's brothers become angry with him because of his desire to be obedient to the Lord's commandments. Nephi is tied up by his very own brothers to the ship for three days. When finally released, swollen, exhausted, and injured the beloved Nephi praises the Lord and says, "Nevertheless I did look unto my God and I did praise Him all the day long and I did not murmur against the Lord because of mine afflictions." What an incredible example Nephi is to all of us. He had every reason to blame and complain, yet he stood strong in the face of adversity even if that meant at times he had to stand alone. He saw the Lord's hand and praised the Lord even and especially during times of difficulty. </div>
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As I thought about Nephi's examples I was reminded of the Savior who was so quick to be grateful in His circumstances regardless of what was going on around Him. He was one who always returned thanks to His Father.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhClfSEUekkqicN0xR_wTPmBdfNn2vspIQ1gO6UiIUyx6kdKpIyJDxZUvF2laYRBm0F5o-dNGURE1LIKJtQZtXC_uwQit84FFhmTTkuaNWt8ogKfHlBhVv5IXyUIqWS-EMheykIX2GAWlTT/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhClfSEUekkqicN0xR_wTPmBdfNn2vspIQ1gO6UiIUyx6kdKpIyJDxZUvF2laYRBm0F5o-dNGURE1LIKJtQZtXC_uwQit84FFhmTTkuaNWt8ogKfHlBhVv5IXyUIqWS-EMheykIX2GAWlTT/s320/unnamed.jpg" width="239" /></a>This last week, challenging as it may have been, I have had many opportunities to praise and thank my Heavenly Father. I praised Him when we were able to see Elfreda looking so beautiful as she entered the church building. I praised Him that although many of our plans fell through we were able to seek inspiration and direction and know where the Lord needed us. I praised Him <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_123633054" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Sunday</span></span> when I felt weak and exhausted for the strength He gave me to fast. I praised Him for the many opportunities my testimony had to be strengthened through opposition. I praised Him and will forever praise Him for the sacrifice of His only begotten Son and that because of our Savior's sacrifice we never need to walk alone. Much like Nephi and many other examples in the scriptures they had, and we have a loving Heavenly Father who hears us, a Savior who has endured anything and everything that we will ever endure, and the precious gift of the Holy Ghost which as promised will direct us where we need to be. </div>
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I cannot fully express to you guys how much I love serving the Lord. He is my loving Savior, my caring Brother, and my tender friend. He lives.</div>
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I hope you guys know how precious you are to Him and how much you mean to me. I sure love you will all my heart. This is His work. How grateful I am that He lets us be a part of it.</div>
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Love, Sister Mathis</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-43683660607411004682015-08-05T00:24:00.000-07:002015-08-05T00:31:22.512-07:00The Greatest Privilege We Have is to Share the Gospel<br />
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This week has been wonderful. I have been so amazed at the power the Spirit has in this work. I am so incredibly grateful for the powerful Mission Leadership Council we had and then the opportunity to train our zone and help them to feel the Spirit in great abundance. It was such a powerful reminder to me. This is His work and it is our sacred privilege to be a part of it. This last week Sister Rogers and I experienced many tender mercies as we tried to do everything we could to fine tune ourselves to listen and watch for the promptings from the Spirit. One example was during a day that all of our plans seemed to fall through, even our dinner appointment! After looking at our plans and reevaluating where the Lord wanted us to be, we decided to go visit an elderly couple named Bob and Joy, whom we have been somewhat teaching for the last month and a half. As we got to their house Joy was sitting outside on the porch. It was the first time we had seen her in a long time so we were grateful to catch her on the front porch. That was sign number one that we were where we needed to be. When she saw us approaching she said "I was thinking about you sisters the other day and was hoping you would come by." It was a hot day so she invited us in for a glass of water. She was talking a zillion miles an hour and barely allowed us time to say anything. We knew after listening to her for awhile that our time was far spent and we weren't being very productive and normally we would need to head out, yet neither of us felt that we could leave just yet. We didn't feel we'd be able to get a word in anytime soon yet for some reason the Spirit was telling us not to leave, that our work there was not finished. Joy during one part of the conversation teared up as she talking about some of the trials her family is facing. With tear filled eyes she said, "I know I shouldn't think like this, but sometimes I wonder if God even hears and answers my prayers." As I prayed and listened to what the Spirit wanted us to do a thought came to my mind, "Give her your Book Of Mormon." I immediately shot this idea down. The Book Of Mormon I had in my bag was a very special one. For the last few months I have been reading the Book of Mormon and marking everything in reference to faith, hope, strength, and courage. I wasn't even finished marking it! How could I give it away to someone? Not to mention I had been specifically praying about various other people I could give it to and Joy was not one of them. Yet the thought came again and this time even stronger, "Give her your Book Of Mormon." Without questioning it this time I grabbed this precious book from my bag and with tear filled eyes said, "Joy, your Heavenly Father wants you to have this book and I promise you in the name of Jesus Christ that if you read it you will find that your Heavenly Father has never left your side." She cried tears of joy and was so moved at the Spirit that touched her heart. Just yesterday we received a phone call from her saying she had not missed a day reading the Book Of Mormon. She has been reading it everyday! How grateful I am for a Heavenly Father who knows exactly what His children need and when they need it. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the Alleman Family: One of our Favorites!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sunflower Sisters</td></tr>
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I heard a quote this week that said "the greatest privilege we have in this life is to share the gospel." How grateful I am for that privilege. It is such a beautiful day to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Never forget how much the world needs your light. We are blessed beyond compare as we seek to strengthen our relationship with the Savior of the world. I am so grateful for Him. I know He lives. May we continue to find Him in our lives and help others to do the same.</div>
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I love you guys so very much! </div>
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Sister Mathis</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-83093354605876613152015-07-27T15:13:00.000-07:002015-07-27T15:13:25.922-07:00All is well, All is well.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So the funniest thing happened this week. A few weeks ago we met the Bell family. This family is hilarious, the father is always working hard doing something. The father is especially interested in learning more about the gospel. He has lots of questions and he told us that his heart is open to the LDS religion. About a week ago we tried to go over to teach the father. Instead the younger son answered the door. He said his parents were in Florida with his brother because his older brother was participating in a Nike photo shoot. With my Nike roots I proceeded to ask questions about this photo shoot. In a few brief moments we came to find out that his older brother is a starting running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers. His name is Laveon Bell. (I probably spelled that wrong). After making that sweet connection we proceeded to teach the brother about the gospel. We invited him to watch the "because He lives" video. He later texted our phone and told us how much he appreciated the video and the power it had to inspire and uplift him. Just yesterday we went back to visit the family... Turns out Laveon was here in Pickerington just the day before!! We were a day away from teaching an NFL player..it just about killed me haha. Who knows what will happen but we will continue to go over and teach the family and maybe one day Mr. Laveon Bell will hear the message of the restored gospel. I just secretly wish that day was two days ago. It would have been epic! </div>
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We had the coolest and one of the most spiritual experiences with the Kamara family, our sweet family who moved here from Liberia. We had a lesson with them <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_341638033" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Friday</span></span> night. The lesson began and the mother was the only one who was in the room ready to listen. As we prayed and invited the Spirit and began to testify of our Savior Jesus Christ, she paused us and said, "My kids need to be in here for this. Let me go get them." Our group had gone from one person to three. Then there was a knock at the door. It was Sister Kamara's sister who came to join us for the lesson. As we taught about Heavenly Father's plan of happiness, I was amazed at the words that filled my mouth. Recently I have been reflecting on the scripture that says "open you mouth and it shall be filled." I believe that God will keep His promises to us but I somewhat struggled with this scripture. I have been fasting and praying to see the fulfillment of this promise in my missionary efforts. Not every time I talk do I feel like my mouth is being filled with the words to say. In fact a lot of times I feel like I'm waiting and waiting for the perfect words to come and they don't, but during this particular lesson I felt like everything I said and relayed to them came straight from their Heavenly Father. By the end of the lesson their father had joined us and we were teaching the whole family! What a beautiful thing it was to testify of eternal families to them. At the end of the lesson they could not adequately express how they felt but they just kept saying how beautiful the plan was. The Spirit worked with them, hearts were touched and we were amazed at how much they understood. They have all grown up in church but they felt as if something was missing and finally the puzzle pieces were fitting together. Sister Rogers and I have high hopes for this family. I told President Daines in my interview this week that this was the African family I have been searching for my whole mission! </div>
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With that little story being said, I know of the power prayer has in our lives. Recently I have tried to change my prayers and make them more heartfelt. I love in the book of Enos when his soul hungers and he kneels down before His maker and cries unto Him all the day long. When I read his words I reflected on my own prayers, my personal communication with the Father and questioned if I really have this spiritual hunger to talk to Him and seek guidance and answers. </div>
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President Uchtdorf in a recent talk titled "the gift of Grace" addressed this topic and said, "When we kneel to pray, is it to replay the greatest hits of our own righteousness, or is it to confess our faults, plead for God’s mercy, and shed tears of gratitude for the amazing plan of redemption?"</div>
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I love being able to talk to my Father in Heaven, and that the omnipotent Creator of the universe delights in hearing from us, His beloved children. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bella's Baptism</td></tr>
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Lastly Bella's baptism was absolutely wonderful. As I sat there and watched her participate in such a sacred and beautiful ordinance I reflected on my Savior Jesus Christ and the immense gratitude I have for Him and the perfect example He set. He has showed us the way, He being Holy was baptized to fulfill ALL righteousness. How close we can feel to Him when those sacred ordinances take place. As Nathan offered the words of the baptismal prayer, the Spirit was incredibly moving. It was a very neat service.</div>
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I am so humbled and grateful for this precious time I have to serve. Sitting there watching Bella take a big step toward her Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ made me feel such a love for this sacred work. I have reflected with great fondness on this wonderful mission experience. There is nothing more sacred then watching those you love come to know their Savior. As Oliver Cowdery said, "these are days never to be forgotten." I love love love being a missionary. </div>
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Love Sister Mathis</div>
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<br /> Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-2294920178197527502015-07-20T17:49:00.003-07:002015-07-20T17:49:52.307-07:00Shall We Not Go On In So Great A Cause?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The View from Ohio: Sometimes it seems very close to Heaven</td></tr>
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<span style="color: rgba(0,0,0,0.701961); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Reflecting
on the beginning of my mission I distinctly remember having this view
of the missionary I wanted to be. I wanted to be this perfect, fearless,
Aaron or Ammon missionary. Let me let you in on a little secret. I'm
not perfect. Sometimes I fall. Sometimes I even struggle to get back up.
Sometimes I'm nervous or scared to talk to people. I've faced doubts and I've had questions. And on occasion I've had feelings of inadequacy
and wonder why Heavenly Father allowed </span><i style="color: rgba(0,0,0,0.701961); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">me</i><span style="color: rgba(0,0,0,0.701961); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"> to be one of His servants. But the other day I realized something. I didn't come out here on a mission to </span><i style="color: rgba(0,0,0,0.701961); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">become</i><span style="color: rgba(0,0,0,0.701961); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"> the person I am supposed to be. I came here to </span><i style="color: rgba(0,0,0,0.701961); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">learn</i><span style="color: rgba(0,0,0,0.701961); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"> who
I am supposed to be. Let me explain what I mean by that. Conversion
doesn't happen overnight nor does it happen fully or completely during
my 18 month portal. I haven't become some godly person during this time I
have been away, but I have changed step by step by small and simple
means and will continue to change and give anything and everything to
become more like my precious Heavenly Father. Progression in the gospel
is a lifetime pursuit and how grateful I am for that simple principle. I
came on a mission to </span><i style="color: rgba(0,0,0,0.701961); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">learn</i><span style="color: rgba(0,0,0,0.701961); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"> to
be the person I was meant to be and to plant the seeds within myself to
become that person. I am laying the foundation for my future and each
day I am molded by His hands as I work to change myself in a way that
will align myself with my older Brother. I feel closer to the Spirit, to
my Heavenly Father, and my older Brother and Savior Jesus Christ than I
ever have. I have changed in many ways and it has been the most
beautiful process of becoming. I know the gospel is true. I feel it with
everything I have and everything I am but mark
my words, my progression is not yet finished and neither is yours! What a
beautiful continuous journey called life our Heavenly Father allows us
to embark on. </span><br />
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President
Ezra Taft Benson said, "we must be careful, as we seek to become more
and more godlike that we do not become discouraged and lose hope.
Becoming Christ-like is a lifetime pursuit and very often involves
growth and change that is slow almost imperceptible. The scriptures
record dramatically in an instant, as it were: Alma the Younger, Paul on
the road to Damascus, Enos praying far into the night, King Lamoni.
Such astonishing examples of the power to change even those steeped in
sin give confidence that the atonement can reach even those deepest in
despair. But we must be cautious as we discuss these remarkable
examples. Though they are real and powerful, they are the exception more
than the rule. For every Paul, for every Enos, and for every King
Lamoni, there are hundreds and thousands of people who find the process
of repentance much more subtle, much more imperceptible. Day by day they
move closer to the Lord, little realizing they are building a Godlike
life. They live quiet lives of goodness, service and commitment...The
Lord is pleased with every effort, even the tiny daily ones in which we
strive to be more like Him. Though we may see that we have far to go on
the road to perfection, we must not give up hope." Keep on, hope on and
continually strive day by day to become more like our loving Heavenly
Father.</div>
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<div>
With that being said in one of my last
emails I invited you to share your conversion stories with me. I'd like
to take this time to share mine with you. For me my conversion story has
been a process. It's hard to pinpoint a specific time when my
"conversion" took place. </div>
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<div>
Growing up I never
really remember questioning the gospel and the many principles found
within it. I had many wonderful spiritual experiences however that
allowed my testimony to grow in the principles of the gospel and that
allowed me to become more converted to it. I have always had a love for
the gospel and a desire to become more like my Savior. Being my stubborn
self however, I knew that I could only coast off of borrowed light for
so long and realized I needed to understand more fully what I was
claiming to believe so I took action to strengthen my faith in the
gospel teachings. </div>
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I grew up in a home where
gospel principles were stressed and encouraged. I felt the love of my
parents and also very often the love of my Heavenly Father. I sang songs
at a young age that testified of who I was and of the reality of my
Heavenly Father. One of my favorite children's songs is "I am a Child of
God." The words to a part of the song read, "I am a child of God and He
has sent me here. Has given me an earthly home with parents kind and
dear. Lead me, guide me, walk beside me, help me find the way. Teach me all
that I must do, to live with Him someday." I remember knowing even as a
young girl that I could pray to my Heavenly Father for love, help, and
guidance and that my ultimate goal was to make it back home to Him. How
fortunate I was for parents who set the example for me and helped me to
know and understand that I had a Heavenly Father who loved me, who loved
me enough to send me and all of you His only begotten Son.</div>
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<div>
When
I was around 15 I had the opportunity to go to Nauvoo, IL, a
well-known church historical sight. It was there that I had the
opportunity to finish the Book Of Mormon for the first time on my own.
It was there that I prayed with my whole heart and soul to know if this
precious book was true. I hungered for an answer. I had believed it was
true, but had never fully sought that confirmation for myself. As I
sat in front of the temple and read the last few verses In Moroni I
remember opening my heart to my Heavenly Father and asking Him if the
Book of Mormon was true. I looked at the temple and at a statue of the
Prophet Joseph Smith and his beloved brother Hyrum as they were mounted
on horses and preparing to take their last fateful steps toward Cathage.
I remember an overwhelming feeling of peace and admiration for the
Prophet come over me. I knew in that moment more fully than I had before
that Joseph Smith was a chosen Prophet of the Lord and that through Him
the Book Of Mormon was brought forth. I realized that what I was holding in
my hands truly was another testament of Jesus Christ and it contained
the fullness of the everlasting gospel. How lucky I felt to hold a copy
of such a divine book in my hands, and not only hold it but feel and
know of its truthfulness. </div>
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As a junior in high school I remember receiving a painful text at a <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_470945736" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Friday</span></span>
night football game from my mother that said "you and your brother need
to come over to grandma and grandpas. It may be the last time you'll
see grandpa." I remember cherishing those last moments with my papa and
telling him how much I loved him. My sweet Grandpa, Papa Dave, passed away
early the next morning with a smile on his face. It was the first time
someone I really knew and loved passed away. As I reflected
on the plan of Salvation, the plan of happiness, I discovered great
comfort in knowing that families are forever and that if strive to do
everything I can in this life, then I can see my Grandpa again. I
gained an unwavering testimony of the Spirit World and how important
this preparatory state is. These verses in Alma 40 in the Book of Mormon gained new meaning for me as I experienced his loss:</div>
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11 Now,
concerning the state of the soul between death and the
resurrection--Behold, it has been made known unto me by an angel, that
the spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal
body, yea, the spirits of all men, whether they be good or evil, are
taken home to that God who gave them life.</div>
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12
And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of those who are
righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is called
paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace, where they shall rest from
all their troubles and from all care, and sorrow.</div>
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<div>
I understood the importance of the resurrection and how one day my grandpa along with all of us will be given a perfect body.</div>
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When
I went away to college I learned more about the pure love of God. I
remember a specific time feeling quite lost and alone. I was away from
family during a hard time and I felt there was no one I could turn to.
Instantly I resorted to prayer. I felt the loving arms of
my Heavenly Father embrace me as I prayed. I knew so distinctly in that
moment that on this journey we never walk alone. That our Heavenly
Father hears every desperate plea and knows every desire of our hearts. I
know That "we love Him because He first loved us." I also remember a
strengthening time when I felt the love of God In great abundance. My
mom shared scripture verses with me found in the Doctrine and Covenants, Section 50
at a time when I desperately needed to feel God's love.</div>
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40 Behold, ye are little children and ye cannot bear all things now; ye must grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth.</div>
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41 Fear not, little children, for you are mine, and I have overcome the world, and you are of them that my Father hath given me;</div>
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42 And none of them that my Father hath given me shall be lost.</div>
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As
a full time missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day
Saints I have come to know of the reality of the infinite and enabling
power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. It can and will carry us. It
will link us to the Savior and to our Father. It will provide
forgiveness for our sins, our weaknesses, and shortcomings. It will
provide the power and the strength to do His sacred work. </div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);">Elder Holland has said, "If He could come forward in the night, kneel down,
fall on His face, bleed from every pore, and cry, “Abba, Father (Papa),
if this cup can pass, let it pass,”<sup style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> <a href="https://www.lds.org/liahona/2001/10/missionary-work-and-the-atonement?lang=eng#footnote11-21990_000_010" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">11</a> </sup>then
little wonder that salvation is not an easy thing for us. If you wonder
if there isn’t an easier way, you should remember you are not the first
one to ask that. Someone a lot greater and a lot grander asked a long
time ago if there wasn’t an easier way.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);">When
you struggle, when you are rejected, when you are spit upon and cast
out, you are standing with the best life this world has ever known, the
only pure and perfect life ever lived. You have reason to stand tall and
be grateful that the Living Son of the Living God knows all about your
sorrows and afflictions. The only way to salvation is through Gethsemane
and on to Calvary. The only way to eternity is through Him—the Way, the
Truth, and the Life."</span></div>
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I
love my Savior. Words can not adequately describe how grateful I am for
the atonement and how much I have learned about it especially these
last 18 months. I have come to learn of the potential I can have <i>only</i> through
Him. I am grateful for the amount of courage it took for Him to leave
His royal courts above and dwell in the most humble of circumstances. To
be despised and rejected, to be spat upon and cast out, rejected and
betrayed. I cannot wait for that day when I will kneel before His face
with tears rushing down my face and gratitude in my heart. I think I
will truly be amazed with how familiar He feels to me, with the very
scars He acquired for me. I look forward to that day and strive to live
in a way that I can hear those uttered words "Well done thy good and
faithful servant....thy faith hath made the whole."</div>
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Wherever
you are on your road to conversion, may you press forward with courage
and great faith. Do not get discouraged. "Live like you believe. Live
like you know. There's one sure way your faith will grow."</div>
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I
absolutely love being a missionary. Nothing brings me greater and more
pure joy than being able to share what I love with others. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72he3zWIK34l0bdrvKjsi9b1o_b9TE_Io9QcxsSmhG9yf3hkQTo3-3oHMR5MoNH-2fioNZ1xWEzU6FlKz73njf0lV1ANKuaSx8BOpUopRm8-j6km734Vujc-oGgZgBu3nGhu1UxZMLshI/s1600/QQYskKXhRszjczOs3LQlMyAdoCXcvncwNI0MR7cKdTaQWUc0k3MpUvEljt1fTEjR7IWxZ149elXe_VpntcUUHs7NoRhPDC8SYC3E25YgdoYwqPRTL-plpoourNAxBU62wjznKpHNK4I5jw7USBxkoX2AwQyS5pjjfaeE_VJSupFMSX6kOnUljdJiDjpCWadD00Lt.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72he3zWIK34l0bdrvKjsi9b1o_b9TE_Io9QcxsSmhG9yf3hkQTo3-3oHMR5MoNH-2fioNZ1xWEzU6FlKz73njf0lV1ANKuaSx8BOpUopRm8-j6km734Vujc-oGgZgBu3nGhu1UxZMLshI/s320/QQYskKXhRszjczOs3LQlMyAdoCXcvncwNI0MR7cKdTaQWUc0k3MpUvEljt1fTEjR7IWxZ149elXe_VpntcUUHs7NoRhPDC8SYC3E25YgdoYwqPRTL-plpoourNAxBU62wjznKpHNK4I5jw7USBxkoX2AwQyS5pjjfaeE_VJSupFMSX6kOnUljdJiDjpCWadD00Lt.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last Ohio Columbus Mission Fireside for Sister Mathis</td></tr>
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I love you guys!</div>
<div style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Sister Mathis</div>
</div>
Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-61122292093486858892015-07-13T23:57:00.002-07:002015-07-13T23:57:52.940-07:00Happy Transfers!<br />
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Hi friends! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggL_bhstSpGVZ2dTQg2u0ZtuAK1cqyHrpGn9EAcUHGqJRTuhTgiiRGkx80kYqtrRimVbIsFto3HAjdOqBqPyBBPVGKfeX8_6iww6Xz8lELPLwKTOhsJXcfH0JL4cx8g5ajVhyYnkdI-u3/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggL_bhstSpGVZ2dTQg2u0ZtuAK1cqyHrpGn9EAcUHGqJRTuhTgiiRGkx80kYqtrRimVbIsFto3HAjdOqBqPyBBPVGKfeX8_6iww6Xz8lELPLwKTOhsJXcfH0JL4cx8g5ajVhyYnkdI-u3/s320/unnamed.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Happy transfers! We had transfers last week and guess what? Sister Rogers and I both get to stay in Pickerington! We are extremely excited for this next transfer ahead of us! </div>
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Last night we drove home to close the day in an intense Midwest rain storm. In less than a half hour I could not believe how much water was on the ground. I felt like we were driving through a lake. It was quite difficult to see where we were going. The winds were strong and the rain was continuously falling in great amounts as to allow a .5 second window for us to see clearly. When we pulled into our parking lot we discovered the beautiful pond next to us was overflowing onto the road. We stepped out of out car into what felt like a Great Lake. I always thought Lake Erie was further north. Turns out it's right in our parking lot. Upon safely entering our top floor apartment we received a text from the zone leaders "Congratulations! We baptized all of Columbus." We found that quite humorous as the Noah's ark story came alive to us. </div>
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Another humorous event of the week. We were leaving an appointment and running to our car when suddenly we heard a young man probably close to our age yell out "hey can I get your number?" My first instinct was "creeper alert! Run away" but then I decided that everyone is a Child of God and why not contact this guy. I turned around to face him and said "as a matter of fact, yes you can. We're missionaries and we love to teach people about their Savior Jesus Christ." He was sorely disappointed when he heard the word missionary. Oh well at least we tried and who knows, maybe we planted a seed?!</div>
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There is an incredible talk in the Ensign for this month titled "The Coming Forth of the Book Of Mormon." What is even cooler about it is that I was at the MTC when it was given by Elder Holland's son. I remember loving it when I heard it the first time in person but to go back and read it allowed the Spirit to come in just as strong as I reflected on my own testimony of the Book Of Mormon. There was a quote that I loved at the very end of the talk that said "You have a Brother who watches over you, ready to rescue you and advance your service with arms far stronger than your arms--far stronger, in fact, than all other arms of the flesh combined. Those arms are there to sustain and bless you, “in every time of trouble” (D&C 3:8), no matter how alone and discouraged you may feel. Therefore, as you move forward with your life, trust in those arms and “be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid … for the Lord thy God, He it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee” (Deuteronomy 31:6).</div>
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Joseph discovered this and changed the world. You can too." </div>
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I also read another talk titled "Matthew Cowley’s Mission to New Zealand." In this talk I loved what this young missionary said on his mission. Elder Cowley said "With all this work before me … you can expect me home sometime during the millennium.” I thought it was a very fitting statement for the current position I'm in.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI6Bj2YaPpFbG3PapL4A7qw4GaMIN2USqnEdCyEy4JIaxzrPjQoYJiG37i0fsoLgXLmTFGsCQJvRbxaHk-EN42eAjeP30kKkWnKyPkqZ92yDjeiKTPmgkEUOaON1RlyAnOq4fo5qQ193o/s1600/image2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI6Bj2YaPpFbG3PapL4A7qw4GaMIN2USqnEdCyEy4JIaxzrPjQoYJiG37i0fsoLgXLmTFGsCQJvRbxaHk-EN42eAjeP30kKkWnKyPkqZ92yDjeiKTPmgkEUOaON1RlyAnOq4fo5qQ193o/s320/image2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Columbus Temple with Bella</td></tr>
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<span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1697399678" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">On Saturday</span></span> we had the opportunity to go to the temple with Bella! We walked around the grounds and even went inside the front entry so she could peek in and feel the instant spirit that comes from entering the house of the Lord. What was also very spiritual was at the exact time we were there, there was a wedding going on so Bella was able to see this bride in her beautiful gown step inside the temple as she prepared to be sealed to her husband for time and all eternity. I hope it allowed Bella to see the importance of setting our sight on the temple and preparing for a temple marriage. It was the first lesson I had ever had with someone at the temple and it was a neat opportunity to testify of the blessings in my life that have come from going to the temple. Bella is so excited to be baptized on the 25th! She is wonderful and each time we meet with her I am blown away by how much she has grown. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohVNF4YJ_jVU8Cw48CjXacyDP484kgqQU_A61OK45putpcV8biUoK10LLLq2P3wtusx3I_MosacsPftB39t-KzqGqwEXtZYxbP33A4ZcecKn8jBelkwf8QWXUdGacnPNbY4AU6Y_djwxS/s1600/image3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohVNF4YJ_jVU8Cw48CjXacyDP484kgqQU_A61OK45putpcV8biUoK10LLLq2P3wtusx3I_MosacsPftB39t-KzqGqwEXtZYxbP33A4ZcecKn8jBelkwf8QWXUdGacnPNbY4AU6Y_djwxS/s320/image3.jpg" width="239" /></a>Recently I've been reflecting a lot on a question. It's a common question that we generally ask many that we come in contact with. The question is how do you feel God's love? </div>
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I have really come to know my Savior this week, and the love my Heavenly Father has not only for me but for those around me. It's hard to pinpoint God's love because it exists all around me. It existed when Sister Rogers and I felt inspired to try a lady that was not even on our plans but suddenly we felt great urgency to go and see her. She opened the door looking warn and distressed and an immediate look of relief and joy crossed her face when she saw two missionaries standing in front of her. She said to us "I was going to call you today, how did you know that I needed you?" We were shocked by that response especially because she wasn't really one we visited often. We responded, We had no idea, but Heavenly Father did." We testified to her of the great power of the Atonement and there it was again. I felt God's love in great abundance. I felt His love during this last week as it filled me and allowed me to reach out to my companion during a couple of hard days. I felt His love as I read about the Saul Paul conversion, about who Saul was and who he became as Paul. I thought about my own life and how prior to my mission I was Lauren and have now become Sister Mathis, a full time ambassador, a missionary called to proclaim to truth to my Brothers and Sisters. I felt His love as I was exhausted and He carried me. I felt His love when I was discouraged and no one wanted to listen to me. I felt his love as I looked around at this beautiful world He created for me. I felt His love when I recited the words of the first vision, or when I read His words from the scriptures. I felt it so strong when I saw someone else smile because of the message of hope and joy we gave to them. I felt His love at the end of a long day when I knew I had given all I could to Him. And yesterday I felt His love as I partook of the sacrament and contemplated the great amount of love and courage it took for Him to send down His only begotten Son to redeem and save us all. His love is all around me and if I am open to it I can feel and notice it everyday. </div>
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There's a quote I just want to end with by President Uchtdorf that says, “Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely. Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly. Though we may feel lost and without compass, God’s love encompasses us completely. …</div>
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“What this means is that, regardless of our current state, there is hope for us. No matter our distress, no matter our sorrow, no matter our mistakes, our infinitely compassionate Heavenly Father desires that we draw near to Him so that He can draw near to us [see D&C 88:63].”</div>
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Your Heavenly Father loves you. He has given us an older brother, a perfect example, a friend, a Savior. "God be thanked for His matchless gift of His divine Son." </div>
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I love you! This work is true. As we seek out to find the lost sheep I can promise you we come to know our Heavenly Father better and will feel His love in greater depths. </div>
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Love, Sister Mathis</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-42410947219019967512015-07-08T17:18:00.000-07:002015-07-08T17:18:18.431-07:0017 Months Down-1 Transfer Remaining!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zone Conference</td></tr>
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I feel really humbled and grateful for the many experiences we face throughout this mortal journey. I am so grateful for this beautiful thing called life, this beautiful opportunity we have to learn so much about who we are and who our Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ are. I have learned a great deal about my Savior Jesus Christ and about the Spirit in the last few days especially. </div>
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This last week I caught some sort of bug. I felt incredibly weak, had little to no appetite, was battling hot flashes and cold chills, and felt like my strength was gone. I knew we had a full busy day ahead of us and tearfully expressed to my Heavenly Father that I didn't know how we'd be able to accomplish it with me being so sick. There was no time to be sick! I plead with him to give me strength to go out and do His work. As <a href="" style="color: #222222;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1187363031" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: none !important; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial !important; border-left-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; border-top-style: none !important; border-width: initial !important; cursor: inherit !important; position: static !important; top: -2px; z-index: auto !important;"><span class="aQJ" style="border-bottom-style: none !important; border-color: initial !important; border-left-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; border-top-style: none !important; border-width: initial !important; cursor: inherit !important; position: static !important; top: 2px; z-index: auto !important;">10 am</span></span></a> came around and it was time to set out for the day I didn't feel much better. In fact I think I was progressively getting worse. Now I know exactly what my doctor dad is thinking reading this. "You need to take care of your body before you set out to work." Well me being a bit on the stubborn side I decided to tough it out and get to work knowing that the salvation of others rested in my hands and then the most incredible thing happened. As I was talking to people and in the midst of lessons I didn't even notice how sick I felt, but the instant we got out of a lesson all the symptoms came back. We even did service on a farm where we raked up big piles of hay and put them into buckets to then carry them to a different location. I know for a fact that the Spirit is what carried me. Exhausted and frail, the Spirit is what allowed me to go on and accomplish the work and not just any work, Hard backbreaking work. As I was anxiously engaged in His work...He carried me. It was a couple of the hardest days of my mission but I realized much like Ammon "as to my strength I am weak therefore I will not boast of myself but I will boast of my God for in his strength I CAN DO ALL THINGS!" How grateful I am for the confidence and strength the Holy Ghost can provide especially in moments of weakness. This experience also reminded me of the first presidency talk in the Ensign for this month titled "All is well." As I read this talk and reflected on my little experience, I grew an even deeper appreciation for the pioneers. President Uchtdorf said of the pioneers, </div>
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"I am very much aware that all was not well with these Saints. They were plagued by sickness, heat, fatigue, cold, fear, hunger, pain, doubt, and even death.</div>
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But despite having every reason to shout, “All is not well,” they cultivated an attitude we cannot help but admire today. They looked beyond their troubles to eternal blessings. They were grateful in their circumstances. Despite evidence to the contrary, they sang with all the conviction of their souls, “All is well!”'</div>
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I love those strong and determine pioneers and am striving to develop more of the "all is well" attitude in all that I do. </div>
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This last week we also had the opportunity to teach a lady and her family the message of the restoration. We were able to teach this precious family from Africa in the home of a member. As we started to teach the simple doctrine that God is our loving Heavenly Father, the Spirit instantly illuminated the room. I love how this particular member explained the Spirit. At the beginning of the lesson he pointed out "the Spirit is so big right now!" I loved hearing it described as being "so big" as to encompass an entire room. As we testified to her I had the privilege of reciting the first vision. The instant I started to say those beautiful and sacred words, I felt the instant truthfulness of them reaffirmed to me. I know God and His son Jesus Christ did appear to the boy Joseph Smith. After the lesson with tears in both of our eyes Sister Rogers said to me "I haven't felt the spirit that strong in a long time." It was one of the absolute best and most spiritual moments of our mission. </div>
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We got to participate as a ward in the annual Fourth of July parade. We had a float that had a pretty accurate replica of the Salt Lake temple and together as Saints and defenders of truth we marched. Sister Rogers and I had the banner at the front that said "the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints." What was neat and caught us somewhat off guard were all the young teenage girls not very modestly dressed who pointed out how much they liked our missionary outfits--Totally made our day because as a missionary you don't always feel the best dressed, sometimes you feel frumpy, but to see these young girls appreciate our modest outfits definitely helped us to remember the examples we can be even with something as simple as dressing modestly. The members of our ward marched alongside the float and handed out countless copies of the Family Proclamation to the World to the large crowds. </div>
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Something neat that Sister Rogers and I realized this last week is that both Elder Packer and Elder Perry in the recent conference (their last conference addresses in this mortal journal) talked about the importance of marriage and family. I know the prophet and his apostles are so divinely inspired. I know how inspired their messages were especially after the great attack we have seen on the family recently. I am so grateful that with all that is uncertain in this world I am able to put my trust in inspired leaders who seek clear and direct revelation for our day. What a neat opportunity the other day it was to teach a lady about our belief in a modern day prophet. She felt complete comfort when she heard that truth. </div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">There's a quote that I love from sweet Elder Packer that I would like to share in memory of him.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“It had become critically important,” he remembered, “to establish this intention between me and the Lord so that I knew that He knew which way I had committed my agency. I went before Him and said, ‘I’m not neutral, and you can do with me what you want. If you need my vote, it’s there. I don’t care what you do with me and you don’t have to take anything from me because I give it to you—everything, all I own, all I am.’"</span></div>
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I too am striving to give everything I own and everything I am to Him who first loved me. A man asked me the other day how long I had been out on my mission. I panicked for a minute as I realized that very day I had been out on my mission for 17 months. It makes me feel sick that my precious days in the full time service of the Lord are winding down. I was emotional as I told him in all honesty that this experience has been the best experience of my life. There are not adequate words to describe this experience. I never want it to end. Shall we not go on in so great a cause? Courage!</div>
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I love you guys! </div>
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Love Sister Mathis</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-26642408795257541042015-06-29T15:21:00.000-07:002015-06-29T15:21:26.710-07:00The Beautiful Service of the Lord<br />
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What an incredible week it was in the beautiful service of the Lord!</div>
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We have been so busy especially this last week. Sister Rogers and I joked the other day about how we never even see each other and we are companions! In between all the exchanges and having mini missionaries I have hardly even seen my companion and this transfer is already almost over! This last week I had the opportunity to go on two exchanges: one in Columbus and the other was all the way out in Jackson. It is a rewarding thing to go into our other sisters' areas and learn so much from them. Although I'm supposed to be the one training, I always feel like I come out learning more from them. One of my favorite moments on one of these exchanges was getting to drive a pickup truck! The Sisters in Jackson are driving the only truck in the mission and being there on exchanges, I got to drive it! It was a good time. On a more serious note the best moment of one of these exchanges was entering the home of a sweet little 92 year old African American. She was frail and had a hard time hearing. She had recently lost a loved one and was going through a difficult time. She expressed how we could not even begin to understand what she was going through. I said to her, "You are right. We cannot even being to feel what you are feeling. But there is one who can. One who has already felt that pain before." Her comment at the end to us was priceless, "I think Jesus sent you guys to me." There is nothing that can trump the priceless joy of being a missionary and having tender moments like that. </div>
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That experience reminded me of a quote by our beloved Prophet Thomas S. Monson. He said, "The sweetest feeling is to feel a prompting and then act on it and later come to know it was an answer to someone's prayer" May we be more open to the Spirit and be more willing to act. That prompting could in a very real sense be a direct answer to someone else's prayer. </div>
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We had dinner with the cutest family yesterday. I fell in love with their little boy, who is an even bigger Lebron fan than I am. He knows all the moves and studies his skills. His parents told us he would often ask the question "What would Lebron do?" They jokingly said they wished they could replace Lebron's name with "What would Jesus do?" This sweet little boy struggles with some health concerns and is a little behind other kids his age. For a spiritual thought we had an idea of taking the whole family outside and using the basketball hoop for our lesson since we knew it was something he loved and he'd be able to pay close attention to. We had this cute little boy stand as far back as we could go. I asked him "do you think you can make this shot from here." He responded that he didn't think he'd be able to. So we exercised faith and took a step closer and taught about repentance. As we repent we come closer to our goal our destination. Then we taught about how repentance makes us want to come even closer to Jesus Christ so we are baptized. After we are baptized we receive the divine gift of the Holy Ghost, and then we must endure to the end. With each principle of the doctrine of Christ we took a step closer and closer to the basket. Well needless to say this little boy was a mini Lebron. He has so much faith he made the shot on his first try after we had only taught about repentance! Luckily the other kids helped us to be able to teach the rest of the principles as they kept taking steps forward to make the big shot. After this fun little lesson the little boy said "Wow that was the best lesson ever!" Teaching the gospel can be fun! Get creative. Find something that someone likes and make a parallel back to the gospel. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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This last week we also had the beautiful opportunity to attend the temple. I was fortunate to take one of my own family names and be able to perform the work for one of my dear ancestors. It was a powerful moment sitting in the Celestial room as I looked around and saw an army of missionaries all dressed in white. In my studies I have been reading about the stripling warriors and as I saw this precious scene I reflected on these young warriors in the Book Of Mormon entering the battle front. Their fearless leader Helaman is telling Captain Moroni in reference to his soldiers, "Never had he seen so great courage." In Alma 56 verse 56 we read of the miracle that not a single one of these Strippling Warriors had fallen to the earth. "They had fought as if with the strength of God; yea never were men known to have fought with such miraculous strength and such miraculous power." That is what I saw as I looked at all the missionaries I was surrounded by. I saw the strength and power of the Lord beaming through them. I saw servants of the Lord carrying His power and His authority. I saw courage and faith and a determined sense to defend truth. </div>
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"We are as the armies of Helaman. We have been taught in our youth. And we will be the Lord's missionaries to bring the world His truth."</div>
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<b>Conference talk of the week- </b>With all that is going on around us in the world, it is easy to be fearful. Evil in the world is being accepted as good and good for evil. Remember whom it is that we should fear and how. Be bold, stand up for what's right, and defend you faith even if you stand alone. I invite you to read this conference talk from Elder Bednar. "Therefore they hushed their fears.<br />
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"Godly fear is loving and trusting in Him. As we fear God more completely, we love Him more perfectly. And “perfect love casteth out all fear” (Moroni <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1142968253" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">8:16</span></span>). I promise the bright light of godly fear will chase away the dark shadows of mortal fears (see D&C 50:25) as we look to the Savior, build upon Him as our foundation, and press forward on His covenant path with consecrated commitment.</div>
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We are so fortunate to live in the dispensation of the fullness of times, the last dispensation. We know with certainty that Christ is coming. There are signs all around us to illustrate how close that coming truly can be. May we trust in Him, lean on Him, and prepare ourselves to one day stand before His glorified and perfected face and feel of His perfect and complete love for us.</div>
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It's a beautiful day to share the gospel. Yesterday we had a missionary musical fireside. I felt such power as I stood with a group of missionaries and together we sang "glory glory hallelujah His truth is marching on!" The truth will go forth it is up to us to share it. The world needs YOUR light! Shall we not go on in so great a cause? COURAGE!</div>
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Love you bunches and bunches,</div>
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Sister Mathis</div>
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Also each of you has a conversion story. I love hearing others conversion to the gospel and I have recently made a book full of people conversion stories. If you have some spare time this week I would love if you wrote down your story and sent it to me!</div>
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<b>Joke of the week</b>- We need to be like lions. A family that <i>prays</i> together stays together - Brother Frericks </div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-54491497079075354942015-06-22T11:00:00.002-07:002015-06-22T11:00:32.895-07:00Hello, Hello!<br />
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I thought I'd start this email off with the funniest comment of the week made by a random citizen whom we had just approached and had not yet said anything to.</div>
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His comment- "Stop asking me if I've found Jesus. I never lost Him. Ya'll keep losing Him!" </div>
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I am so grateful to have my own personal testimony of the Savior, to have "found" Him and to have a deep and abiding knowledge that He lives. I am grateful that beautiful knowledge in my life has never been lost, that I grew up singing the words "I'm trying to be like Jesus" and even at a young age I saw who I was striving to become. As a missionary that desire has only increased each day as I put on my name badge that boldly contains my name and the Savior's name. How honored I feel to go out each day and represent Him as I continually better myself to become like Him.</div>
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This last couple of days as I have reflected on the importance of Fathers and the many father figures that have shaped my life, I have felt an abundance of gratitude for how my Heavenly Father has reached out to bless me. In our dinner appointment last night for Father's Day we asked each of the kids why they are grateful for their Earthly father and then followed up by asking why they were grateful for their Heavenly Father. When it was my turn to respond I told the family I am incredibly grateful for my earthy father because he is my number one fan. He supports me in all that I do and is rooting for me every step of the way. I told them for that for the same reason I am grateful for my Heavenly Father. Our Heavenly Father is a proud Father who delights when we strive to follow Him. His is the one fan that will never leave our side regardless of our performance. He supports us as we have righteous goals and ambitions and walks with us through the challenges and trials we face along the way. I remember a particular race in high school. It was the track state meet. We had prepared all season to let our talents shine. I stepped onto the line, the race began and I prayed that Heavenly Father would help to carry me after the hard work, the many practices, and the mental and physical preparation I had put in. At the end of the race I felt a sense of joy and satisfaction in the race I had just run. I looked up into the stands. Standing up amidst the sea of people with his hands in the air cheering loud for all to hear was my Father. Right there on the finish line tears began to fill my eyes as I looked into the smiling face of a proud father. As I have reflected on this tender moment I am continually drawn to my Father in Heaven who is much the same. I imagine as we take steps toward Him and make and keep sacred covenants with Him we can feel the loving hands of a proud Father raised up I'm the air saying the precious words "this is my beloved son/daughter in whom I am well pleased." How grateful I am for my Heavenly Father and also for my wonderful earthly Father that my Heavenly Father blessed me with. </div>
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We met an amazing family that has recently moved from Africa. Sister Rogers and I despite the rain felt prompted to walk to the street we were going to tract instead of drive. Because we walked we were able to find this precious family along the way! This lovely couple has an older son who moved from Ohio to West Virginia. He used to meet with the missionaries frequently but when he moved he somehow had lost contact. Luckily he was in town visiting his parents and we were able to reach out to him and his family. The son testified of a time when the missionaries he was meeting with gave him a blessing and through his faith and the power of the priesthood he was healed. He spoke positively of his experiences of attending church. He also was able to teach his parents practically the first lesson as we were there to teach and testify with him. We were able to get his information and send it to the office so that missionaries can come in and continue to teach him and also were able to leave the door open to come back to his parents home to teach them. What a neat opportunity it was to be guided by the Holy Ghost to one of our Heavenly Father's children that had fallen through the cracks. A few days ago after a long somewhat discouraging day of little to no doors opening, we humbly prayed to our Heavenly Father to ask Him where He wanted us to be. It was a little after <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_618548772" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">8 o'clock</span></span> and the time was winding down. We felt impressed to go try this family again. We drove to their house and once again offered a prayer to confirm with Heavenly Father that we were where we needed to be. We went up to knock on their door and waited for awhile...no answer. Luckily we saw a note on the door that said, "we're in the backyard." It was as if they were waiting for us and expecting us. We were able to teach them about the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Father was deeply moved as we taught him about faith, repentance, baptism, the gift of the Holy Ghost and the importance of enduring to the end." He asked us to write down the the things the spirit had just helped us to teach him so that he could in turn teach his family. The mother was pleading for her own copy of the Book of Mormon. I testify that just as the scriptures say there are people prepared to receive the message we are so fortunate to bring to them. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Rogers and I with Dan at His Baptism</td></tr>
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I had the opportunity to return to Delaware to watch one of Heavenly Father's precious sons enter into the sacred covenant of baptism. I was picked up with my companion by the one and only wonderful Clarence and his beautiful daughter Tina and together we drove to Clarence's stepson's baptism. How tender it was to spend time with them as we drove and reflected on the blessings the gospel brings us. As we entered Delaware I felt such a sense of peace and gratitude for the time Heavenly Father allowed me to labor among His children there. I began to get teary eyed as I reflected on the growth that occurred within me there and the privilege I had to meet so many wonderful people. The spiritI felt moved me as I knew I had entered into one of the specific parts of the vineyard the Lord had placed me in for a point and time. That Delaware is a blessed land and I wish I could adequately describe how I felt and how all the memories returned as I was there.<br /></div>
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Thank you all for your love and prayers. I sure love this work. Shall we not go on in so great a cause? Courage!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With some of my beloved Delaware Family: Dan, Tina and Clarence</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sam Beck performed the musical number </td></tr>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-43336470855998190802015-06-16T19:02:00.002-07:002015-06-16T19:02:55.178-07:00Everything I Am and Hope to Be I Owe to This Mission<br />
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Hello my good friends and family!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating Sister Rogers Birthday June 11th*</td></tr>
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Have I told you recently how much I love being a missionary?! As Elder Holland once said, and I'm totally paraphrasing "everything I am and hope to be I owe to this 18 month mission." Yesterday during studies I went and found the conference talk from our beloved Prophet President Monson when he announced the exciting news about the missionary age change. </div>
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"I am pleased to announce that effective immediately all worthy and able young men who have graduated from high school or its equivalent, regardless of where they live, will have the option of being recommended for missionary service beginning at the age of 18, instead of age 19. I am not suggesting that all young men will--or should--serve at this earlier age. Rather, based on individual circumstances as well as upon a determination by priesthood leaders, this option is now available. </div>
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As we have prayerfully pondered the age at which young men may begin their missionary service, we have also given consideration to the age at which a young woman might serve. Today I am pleased to announce that able, worthy young women who have the desire to serve may be recommended for missionary service beginning at age 19, instead of age 21.</div>
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We affirm that missionary work is a priesthood duty--and we encourage all young men who are worthy and who are physically able and mentally capable to respond to the call to serve. Many young women also serve, but they are not under the same mandate to serve as are the young men. We assure the young sisters of the Church, however, that they make a valuable contribution as missionaries, and we welcome their service."</div>
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I remember I was sleeping through that particular session and my mom came running into the bedroom and said "Lauren you can go on a mission at age 19!" In all honesty I wasn't beaming full of excitement like most of the 18 going on 19 girls were. I had always wanted to serve but when the opportunity was closer than I thought it was, I became uncertain of if it was right for me. Yesterday morning as I read these inspired words from our prophet I felt such a confirmation of how well our leaders and our Heavenly Father know us. As I read that statement I couldn't imagine my life without this decision I made to serve a mission. It has been the absolute greatest blessing in the world and I thank my Heavenly Father each day for the precious days He lends me in His service. </div>
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I love the change that occurs as a missionary, uncomfortable as it may be at times. It is a beautiful feeling to grow and become more like our Precious Savior Jesus Christ each day. He is molding me daily and helping me see the potential that He sees in me. I have realized especially this week, that weak as I am, Heavenly Father is not. He is strong, He is powerful, and He is omnipotent and He has the divine ability to work through me as one of His servants. </div>
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A few days ago we we having a lesson with our awesome investigators. The spirit was strong as we discussed important truths that would bless their lives. One of our investigators named Sean, an older gentleman, turned to me and asked "What are you going to do for your 21st birthday?" I promptly responded "Preach the gospel." He then chuckled and said, "Wow you don't hear that everyday!" I wouldn't trade where I am for the world. I love being a missionary. There's truly nothing greater than sharing something you know and love with someone else.</div>
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On the topic of Prophets I also want you to know how grateful I am for our modern day prophet, for the service and love he so patiently renders. There was a conference talk a little while back where a member of the church was talking to her next door neighbor. The member was telling this particular neighbor about how there was a prophet on the earth today! The neighbor then excitedly responded, "Well what is he saying?" The member then froze and had to honestly say that she didn't quite know and couldn't formulate a sufficient answer as to what the prophet on the earth had recently told the people. Brothers and Sisters, may we all be a little more aware of the Prophet's counsel. In the last nine months the Prophet has guided us and has taught: </div>
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1. Look heavenward</div>
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2. Our decisions determine our destiny</div>
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3. We will find peace in the temple</div>
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4. We are commanded to be a light to the world. To love and serve others</div>
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5. Be prepared for all that lies ahead</div>
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President Uchdorf once said, "I am grateful (President Monson) focuses on the one, but has a heart for the whole world." How grateful I am to feel of his individual love for me </div>
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and the great love he has for all those in the world. I know He walks with God and that God leads and guides us through Him.</div>
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The work has been great here. We love the ward and are very grateful for their enthusiastic missionary attitudes. Yesterday was such a good <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_711779631" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Sunday</span></span> as we had a missionary in the ward return and give his homecoming address and also have a cute little Sister in the ward give her farewell. This last week we have spent a majority of our time riding our bikes, out in the hot humid sun, or in the pouring rain, and talking to everyone. We have put a lot of effort into finding and have seen many blessing and tender mercies as we give more of ourselves. We are also working with such an incredible 23 year old girl who is working to be baptized at the end of the month. We are excited for her and we know even more importantly her Heavenly Father is excited and proud of her.</div>
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Shall we not go on in so great a cause? </div>
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I love you guys! I hope you know how often I pray for you and for your own missionary efforts. </div>
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Love Sister Mathis</div>
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*It's Lauren's birthday Thursday, June 18th. She'd love an email or a letter from any one of you!</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-7018883560279805632015-06-08T14:46:00.000-07:002015-06-08T14:46:05.211-07:00Sent From My iPad!!<br />
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What an exciting week! I am writing this very email from my new missionary i-pad! Hurray! I will admit, believe it or not, that I am technologically challenged after being away from these fancy gadgets for a few days...and by a few days I mean 16 months. The last few days I have been sharing the gospel with my cute little mini missionary companion Sister Davis. She just had her 16th birthday and is a convert to the church. Sister Rogers and I were given two mini missionaries <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1091299668" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Saturday</span></span> and we will have them <a href="" style="color: #222222;">until <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1091299669" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: none !important; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial !important; border-left-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; border-top-style: none !important; border-width: initial !important; cursor: inherit !important; position: static !important; top: -2px; z-index: auto !important;"><span class="aQJ" style="border-bottom-style: none !important; border-color: initial !important; border-left-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; border-top-style: none !important; border-width: initial !important; cursor: inherit !important; position: static !important; top: 2px; z-index: auto !important;">next Saturday</span></span></a>. It has been a blast! We also had our first <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1091299670" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Sunday</span></span> in our new ward. They are amazing. It is a young ward with people so fired up to do missionary work. Here was my favorite story of yesterday, the beautiful sabbath day. A little 6 year old girl in the ward came up to me and stated, "I don't want to serve a mission because what if I have to eat food I don't like?" I looked at her and told her how exciting a mission is. I told her it was the best thing in the whole wide world and then told her how I was a picky eater before my mission but Heavenly Father helped me to love the food others make me. I told her that Heavenly Father would help her too. She then gave the cutest little grin and walked away. Her dad later reported back to us and said, "I don't know what you said to her, but she has been talking about serving a mission all day!" It warmed my little missionary heart. </div>
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One of the highlights this week was going on an exchange with a sister in the Reynoldsburg area. She had only been there for a week and so both of us, not knowing the area, had to rely completely on the spirit. During the day we had about 10 minutes before our next appointment and had a potential to try before we went to it. We sat and questioned if we would be able to make it to the appointment on time if we tried the potential. As we were deciding what to do the spirit softy whispered to me "go try that potential." As the minutes were fading quickly and we were frantically searching for the house of this potential, the Spirit once again was there to lead and guide us. Miraculously we made it to this little hidden apartment. We knocked on the door...no answer. I was beginning to feel a little discouraged and I even thought to myself "but Heavenly Father-- we followed a prompting!" We decided to walk out of this apartment hallway a different way from the way we came in. As we were just approaching the door out we saw an Orkin exterminator on the job. We felt impressed to talk to him and give him a card. As we conversed we found out that just the night before he had watched a documentary on the church and was led to <a href="http://Mormon.org/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Mormon.org</a> to find out more. He was deeply interested and desired to learn more, and then lo and behold the missionaries cross paths with him the very next day. I know he was the reason Heavenly Father led us to those apartments. I also learned the importance of following promptings and not second guessing the Lord's hand. " All things are done in the wisdom of Him who knoweth all things."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxpVVYoR-_rP_gkhm9O3o_woFc02QVO8AYxyJMMstunWG64o1bwGVY69pmB2PUea-70mm-Kj8oH9dqauoRRK50Lec05WfwVsxlenQv1itwVajs2Yn3sx-9Aqf0c0jqz13XrcmoulVEXNa/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxpVVYoR-_rP_gkhm9O3o_woFc02QVO8AYxyJMMstunWG64o1bwGVY69pmB2PUea-70mm-Kj8oH9dqauoRRK50Lec05WfwVsxlenQv1itwVajs2Yn3sx-9Aqf0c0jqz13XrcmoulVEXNa/s320/unnamed.jpg" width="239" /></a>Something I have come to know on my mission is the Important truth that we can feel the love of Christ for anyone. It is something He will grant us so long as we earnestly pray for it and desire to come unto Him. We were out tracking one day and we saw a man with a big picket fence outside his house that says "Jesus Saves." We decided we couldn't pass up such an opportunity so we decided to knock on his door. He came out and we told him how much we admired his faith and courage to put up such a sign. We proceeded to try and tell him the "good news" and testify of the restoration. He didn't agree with out beliefs and made that very known to us. As we stood and listened to this man express his opinions, oddly enough I started to get emotional as Christ lent me some of His love for this man who disagreed with us. I knew without a doubt that Heavenly Father knew and loved him. I felt like Moses when it was said in the scriptures that "his heart swelled wide as eternity." I testify of the pure and beautiful love the Savior has for us and that we can help to carry to those around the world.</div>
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There's a quote I came across this week that I loved! It's by Lucy Mack Smith and says, "We must cherish one another, watch over one another, comfort one another, and gain instruction that we may all sit down in Heaven together."</div>
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"I glory in plainess, I glory in truth, I glory in my Jesus." Shall we not go on In so great a cause? </div>
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Love you bunches and bunches! </div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-22667225030628145712015-06-01T15:39:00.000-07:002015-06-01T15:39:07.082-07:00There's no comfort in the growth zone, and no growth in the comfort zone."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parting is such sweet sorrow: With Terri Huang, Sister Ure and Ellen</td></tr>
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Greetings from the blessed land of Pickerington, Ohio!<br />
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When I decided to serve a mission I don't think I fully realized how hard it would be to let go and move onto a new area and leave those you love dearly behind. It wasn't easy to say goodbye to many of my dear Ohio family members. One of my favorites was telling Dakota goodbye. I kept my composure until he came up and put his arm around me. Tears started to fill my eyes as I knew I would be leaving my little brother for a period of time. His response when he saw the tears, "welp see ya!" Gotta love little 10 year old boys! They sure do make sentimental tender times not as hard. </div>
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So here's the latest news in the life of Sister Mathis! My new companion has been out for about 9 months. Her name is Sister Rogers and she is from Utah. I wasn't released from being a Sister Training leader, and now will train Sister Rogers as she is a new Sister Training Leader! We were doubled into our new area, meaning we both are brand new to the area. So we have been running around like chickens with our heads cut off for the last few days. It's been a blast. I have to be careful what I ask for. A few nights before transfers I was telling Sister Ure, "It would be fun to be doubled in. It's part of the mission experience." Well wish granted and here we are! The members of the ward we have met so far are incredible and we had the opportunity to attend Stake Conference yesterday. There has been a lot of changes in the last couple of days and we are still trying to get used to new things. I love the quote though that says, "there's no comfort in the growth zone, and no growth in the comfort zone." I know that change can bring out the best in us and that this will be an awesome opportunity to learn and grown closer to my Savior. </div>
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We had a neat experience with a lesson Sister Ure and I had our last night in Newark. We were teaching a man named Kent. Remember the guy I talked about a few weeks ago, who called us back from our scripture text? Well we finally had a lesson with him. In between his traveling time he set up an appointment to meet with us. He showed great urgency and understood the importance of what the gospel could do for him. Well during the lesson we brought a wonderful member and Kent and this member completely connected. Before long our time was up and we had to get home for curfew. My companion and I didn't say much during the lesson, it was mostly Kent talking about some strengthening spiritual experiences he had, but as we got up to leave, Kent said, "I cannot believe the spirit you carry. I felt it the second you walked in the door and it remained here the whole time." I probably said two sentences during that whole lesson but the amazing thing about this lesson was the ability Kent had to recognize the Spirit without us even teaching. It reminded me of the power and the gift we as members of the Church carry. I love the quote from one of the apostles that says, "preach the gospel always, if necessary use words." Others can feel the Holy Ghost you carry, they can feel the power and the love of their Savior through YOU. Never forget that and strive constantly to be worthy of the beautiful gift of the Holy Ghost. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Sister Rogers bound for Pickerington<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
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In honor of one of our modern day hero's Elder L. Tom Perry, here is one of my favorite stories he shared.</div>
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<span style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px;">“I was assigned to serve in Columbus, Ohio, just after I had arrived in the mission field. I knew absolutely nothing about missionary work and my senior companion, who had been out only three months, knew little more than I did. I had always been strong in the Church, and though my testimony had never been tested, I surely thought that it could never waiver.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px;">“Well, my first full day of proselyting was spent going from house to house. We didn’t have much success until a kind Southern Baptist lady invited us into her home. She had a profound knowledge of the scriptures, and I’m afraid that my companion and I could not counter her persuasive arguments. I went home that day a converted Southern Baptist.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px;">“The following day was not much better. I went home a converted Methodist. And the next day I was swayed toward the Lutheran faith. I finally decided that this kind of thing should not be happening to a Mormon missionary. I decided that before I could teach and bear testimony about the gospel it was first necessary that I know something about it myself.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px;">“My companion and I lived on the top floor of a four-story rooming house. The landlady had granted us the privilege of using the kitchen, which was in the basement. I decided that each night I would go down to the kitchen after my companion had retired to bed and prepare a talk, beginning with the first four principles and ordinances of the gospel.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px;">“The first night I studied and prepared a talk on faith that I presented to my audience: a mouse that I had coaxed out of his hole with a cracker. He stared at me for a minute, picked up the cracker, and went back into his hole.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px;">“The following night the subject was repentance. The mouse came out and listened to me for some time longer than the night before, and then returned to his hole. I was making progress.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px;">“The third night I came down and filled the dishpan with water and washed some dishes before I prepared my talk on baptism. Again, my friend the mouse came out of his hole to hear my presentation. He stood there and stared at me the whole time, and when I was finally finished he walked back to his hole in deep thought. I was a bit proud of myself as I walked upstairs, knowing I had really impressed my audience.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: #e7e6e2; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.8999996185303px;">“The next morning my companion and I went downstairs to prepare breakfast and I noticed that I had not emptied the dishpan of water I had used the night before. I was greatly surprised when, at the bottom of the pan, I found my friend, the mouse. My little talk had really made an impression. In his stupor of thought he must have crawled into the pan: baptism by immersion!”</span> </div>
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Elder L. Tom Perry passed away May 30, 2015</div>
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I love you guys from Ohio, to Reno, to Newark, To Delaware, To Columbus, to Heaven and back!</div>
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Love, Sister Mathis<br />
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-55490095632278884812015-05-26T20:50:00.000-07:002015-05-26T20:50:14.550-07:00It's a Great Day to be a Missionary!<br />
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Funnies of a mission</div>
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<span style="color: #ff9900;">Missionaries-"Christ's original church began to crumble."</span></div>
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<span style="color: #ff9900;">Little girl- "Well they should have used bricks!"</span></div>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Neighbor- "I have a niece named felony. </span></li>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Missionaries- "Is that spelled with an f?"</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Neighbor-"No with a PH"</span><br />
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">Dakota- "I don't want kids right now I can't take care of them."</span></li>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">Tammey- "Well that's good seeing as how you're 10!"</span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: black;">I absolutely love my mission. I cannot fully express the joy I feel for this sacred work. It has been another eventful week! A couple of highlights from the week included...an I-PAD training! It really was one of my favorite trainings ever. Elder Watson from church headquarters came and spoke to us and I was impressed at how spiritual the meeting was. It wasn't so much about i-pads as it was about helping us to not lose focus of our purpose and the emphasis the Quorum of the 12 Apostles is providing on the use of technology and also protecting us from the "wiles of the devil."</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: black;">In other news my best friend, Sister Ure, finishes her mission this week. I am incredibly sad to lose my partner in crime, my companion, my teacher, and my guide. I feel much like Alma and the Sons of the Mosiah and the love and brotherhood they developed as they were united in the service of the Lord. She is a powerful ambassador for the Lord and I know we will be friends forever. I am grateful everyday that we had the opportunity to serve and grow together.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: black;">We had zone conference this last week and a major theme of the conference was the power of the atonement. Our loving Savior Jesus Christ, both holds power and extends power to us. In the book of Matthew, Christ says, "</span></span>All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." What are the powers we can receive from the atonement?</div>
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-cleansing</div>
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Brothers and Sisters, family and friends, let the beautiful powers of the atonement come into your life. Let them heal you and comfort you. We are better than settling for anything less than living with Him in a royal court prepared on high. Don't compare yourself to anyone. Compare yourself to your best- who you are through Him because of the power of His atonement. I invite you to take one of these powers or add one of your own to the list and study it deeply for a week. Look for scriptures or words from modern prophets to see how the atonement is able to provide these gateways. Each of us may wonder, how is it done?<br />
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I testify that although I do not know all the answers, I know one thing for certain, my Savior lives, and loves me and each of you deeply. His atonement is real, and through the irony of it our garments can be made white and pure through His atoning sacrifice. While Christ was on the earth He performed miracles, He healed the blind and raised the dead, but in the words of President Daines, "All that would not have mattered if He did not drink of the bitter cup." That was His whole purpose in coming to earth. He was foreordained and willing in the preexistence. Others could have performed miracles, there were many that went before Him and that followed Him that did just that, but there was no other person who could fully and completely carry out the atonement save it was, the Prince of Peace, The Only Begotten of the Father, our Savior and Redeemer, even Jesus the Christ.</div>
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I love you guys so so much, but more importantly your Savior loves you. The good Shepherd calls out to all who will hear His voice. May we listen a little more intently to Him.</div>
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It's a beautiful day to be a missionary!</div>
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Love, Sister Mathis<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To Teach and Preach and <u>Play</u> as Missionaries Do?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A member of the Zanesville Ward went to the NBA Playoffs and brought Lauren and her companion souvenirs knowing what a Lebron fan she is. These two are spoiled:)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-25890289990928152102015-05-18T21:22:00.000-07:002015-05-18T21:22:12.549-07:00Teach and Preach and Work as Missionaries Do!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It seems that Lauren was too busy<br />this week running into things to take any pictures <br />so thanks Ellen for posting this one.</td></tr>
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Well first things first. We are alive! We survived some severe tornado warnings. During our preparation day last week the tornado sirens were going off like crazy and the weather was a bit daunting. We were held captive in Target as the workers tried to make sure we were safe. Luckily everyone was safe, it rained cats and dogs and we saw a couple of trees that had fallen down on the drive back to our apartment, but no sighting of a tornado. Darn! It would have been pretty neat to see one! The rainy humid summer season is upon us! We have been walking to as many appointments as we can. One particular day it was rather warm and and we were sweating buckets. We finally reached our destination. Upon our arrival one of the little kids in the home of the family we were visiting said, "what's all over your shirt!?" We both looked down at our shirts and Sister Ure promptly responded, "that my dear is sweat." Don't worry Dad- we are staying hydrated, after all water is the driving force of nature.</div>
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Well, let's just say another embarrassing thing happened in the life of Sister Mathis this last week. We discovered a new ice cream place called Dairy Isle. It is amazing. After talking one of our favorite members out teaching with us we decided to stop at the ice cream place for our dinner. After we ordered, the cutest family approached the counter to order their own ice cream. The spirit prompted me to give them a <a href="http://mormon.org/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">mormon.org</a> pass along card. I was all giddy about meeting a cool new family and was oblivious to what would happen next. As I turned to talk away, two ice creams in hand, I came face to face with a cement pillar and ran smack dab into it-completely crunching the ice creams. Within seconds a goose-egg formed and tears of laughter and slightly tears of public humiliation escaped. What is up with me running into things?!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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This week I have really tried to focus on the Christ-like attribute of humility. After going on an exchange with a new missionary I was able to think back to the beginning of my mission. I remember being scared and feeling completely inadequate, but the beauty of being a new missionary is the ability you have to rely completely on the Savior. You don't yet know your own skills and capabilities as a missionary. You don't know what works best for an area and you don't fall into a rut of doing things your own way instead of the Lord's way. I think naturally as a missionary the longer you've been out you develop the "I've got this attitude. I know what I'm doing" when in reality we don't have it at all. I was deeply humbled this week as I was once again reminded how this is Heavenly Father's work, not mine. As I reflected on this exchange I longed to be as dependent on the Savior as I was at the beginning of my mission. Throughout this last week especially I tried to turn to my Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ for every decision. I tried to follow any prompting that came regardless of how small. </div>
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A huge highlight of the week was watching the beautiful and incredible Arnott family all walk into the church together. Dakota's older brother came and it was honestly hard to hold back tears at the joy I felt to watch them enter such a sacred and special place, a place of refuge, a place that unites families and builds them stronger. I also learned an important truth at church yesterday. The missionaries are the first to call up to the stand when the speaker doesn't show up.</div>
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We had a couple incredible miracles this last week as we turned to the Savior and our Father in Heaven and let them lead this work. One morning during studies we had a feeling we should send out a scripture text to some people in our phone contacts that we did not yet know. I love having such an inspired companion. She had the idea to send these verses in Corinthians.<br /><br />"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will Irather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1980275362631978463" name="14d6a3f6a284a4a0_10" style="color: #222222;"> </a>Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when Iam weak, then am I strong."</div>
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A few days later we received a call from an older gentleman who had recently lost his wife. He just kept saying over and over on the phone how amazed he was by the timing of the text message we sent. In our phone he was marked as an investigator, but we had no record or information about him. We had no idea the suffering he has been enduring with the loss of his sweet wife, but Heavenly Father did. With all the gratitude in his genuine heart he thanked us for sending that scripture in a time when he desperately needed it. He kept repeating how amazed he was by the timing of it. He is out of town for the funeral, but will return at the end of the week and we will meet up to teach him a lesson about our Heavenly Father's beautiful plan of happiness.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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Last night was a beautiful night and we decided to park the car and walk the rest of the night. We made a goal to talk to everyone we saw. As time was running short and we were making our way back to our apartment we saw a precious family outside. The father was playing catch with the daughter and the mother was sitting on the porch watching the two play and holding the most adorable baby I have ever seen. We knew time was short but something told us "do not let this opportunity pass you by" and so we walked up and started talking to them. We found out that they have 5 little kids that are all tremendous athletes, but what was even more impressive than the athletic aspect was the family's love for the Savior. They read the bible and pray daily as a family and are a wholesome family established on good principles and values. Truly you could see their love for the Savior and others in the way they treated us. They live their religion. We are so excited to go back next week and bring them a copy of the Book Of Mormon. We were immediately blessed for following that prompting in many ways. The funniest part was since we had spent time talking to them we knew were were going to be late back to our apartment because we still had to walk the rest of the way home. Well literally right after we left this family's home we received a call from one of the sweetest members. She asked us what we were doing and where we were. We told her we were out walking and immediately she responded, "stay where you are. I'm coming to pick you up." I love love love this work and the Spirit that works in unity with us.</div>
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It's a beautiful day to be a missionary! Go out and share with others what makes you so happy! Love you guys!</div>
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Love, Sister Mathis</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-26395988441483100382015-05-11T20:43:00.001-07:002015-05-11T20:43:36.020-07:00Prayer-Our Direct Line to Heaven!<blockquote style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" type="cite">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't worry Mom, I won't try to sneak one home!</td></tr>
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Hey beautiful people!</div>
This is going to be a short email this week, but I want you all to know how much I love and appreciate you. It was wonderful to be able to skype my family yesterday. We laughed as we relayed funny stories to each other and for a moment it felt like we had never even been apart. I love how the spirit works and although I am far from home the spirit allows me to feel complete comfort and peace. At the end I loved being able to bear my testimony to my family. My testimony has become one of my most cherished and precious things. Daily I am working to build upon that testimony. It is something that no one can take from me. A testimony is something that is never finished, but is quite the opposite. It is growing each day, line upon line, precept upon precept, both through experiences and through study.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgWk4pJhnReA7RPXXnkOVdeyqkETHIquF4TFQK6zxsNixJH8mJ4lLTQXcgz4Cc-KUWh8dvQTDHg2A6sq2Fe5n4xZnwDI1tiMaZlDQ2Go6c8s-JIlHobttQzazrjml5eP5FQyGo3HgaYUMV/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgWk4pJhnReA7RPXXnkOVdeyqkETHIquF4TFQK6zxsNixJH8mJ4lLTQXcgz4Cc-KUWh8dvQTDHg2A6sq2Fe5n4xZnwDI1tiMaZlDQ2Go6c8s-JIlHobttQzazrjml5eP5FQyGo3HgaYUMV/s320/unnamed.jpg" width="320" /></a>This last week we had an exciting holiday for a missionary. Well actually two...Mother's Day, and National Day of Prayer!! We are working to put together a video where we interview random people on the street and ask them what prayer means to them. I have been so inspired and impressed from some of the responses we have seen. Prayer is as the young woman of the Newark Ward said "our direct phone line to Heaven." My testimony was strengthened as I heard both those of our faith and those who are not bear testimony of the power of prayer and how it has changed them. We have seen the broken-hearted, those who are battling cancer, those who are carrying the weight of their sins, those looking for a source of help and guidance, and those wanting to feel loved turn to their Father in Heaven and beckon Him in prayer. Prayer is not a last resort, it is the only option. When we call upon the powers of Heaven, hearts are touched and lives are changed.</div>
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I love you guys so very much! Go make today great and remember you are so worth it to our Father in Heaven. He is not waiting to love you until you are perfect. He loves you perfectly now. Reach out to Him. I encourage you to get on your knees and talk to Him. Now is the time and will forever be the time to talk to your Father in Heaven.</div>
Love Sister Mathis</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-8421181106828700342015-05-05T23:11:00.000-07:002015-05-05T23:11:35.797-07:00Is Lauren in Heaven?<br />
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My cute little cousin must have known there is something "heavenly" about serving a mission and often times as I share the gospel I think I get a little glimpse of what Heaven is truly like. I'm not to Heaven yet, but I am grateful to have opportunities as a missionary that let me feel a little piece of Heaven on earth.<br /></div>
This week has been such an exciting week! Here's a couple of stories that I hope will warm your heart, I know they warmed mine.<br /></div>
The other day we were sitting on our back patio eating our dinner when two cute neighborhood kids road their bikes over to us. They began talking to us and showing us sweet tricks on their bikes like the infamous bunny hop. When they recognized who we were and what apartment we lived in they excitedly said, "We love your picture of Jesus in the front window!" Sister Ure ran into the apartment and grabbed them their own picture of the Savior. They graciously thanked us. The next morning as we set out for the day we happened to glance at our neighbors windows and saw the pictures of the Savior posted just like ours in the front windows of the two apartments of the little boys. It made our day seeing the pictures of the Savior around the apartment complex and to see other believers. I don't think our apartment manager will mind too much seeing as how he is a member too! Hopefully the other neighbors don't think we have some sort of secret combination going on, ha ha!<br /></div>
We had the opportunity to go to a care center for disabled adults in Utica, Ohio and bring a little bit of sunshine to the patients there. What a neat opportunity it was to see and know of God's love for them. They are faced with different struggles and mountains to climb in this life, but God does not love them any less then He loves you and me. They were handcrafted and perfectly made by the One who knows all. One of the ladies we talked to for awhile seemed to be best friends with everyone in the center. When it was time for their pizza party we journeyed up to the dining area to talk to more people there. When we saw her she was sitting at a table surrounded by men. We kind of teased her and said, "Wow,are these all your boyfriends?!" She promptly responded back, "Oh no! One is enough!" <br /></div>
There was a quote from conference that I really have been reflecting on. I can't remember who said it but he said, "Don't let those things you do not understand unravel the things you know to be true." This gospel is amazing. It is beautiful in many ways. The gospel is true and it only gets truer. Hold to what you know. Defend what you believe in and don't compromise the precious truth you have.<br /></div>
Lastly I just want to give a little shout-out to all the mothers around the world and especially to my angel mother. Yesterday my companion said to me, "Your mother seems wonderful. I can't wait to meet her one day." I couldn't ask for a better mother who has supported me since day one. Who carries the spirit with her and follows the promptings she receives. She knows no strangers and is constantly doing something to serve someone else. She emulates charity and truly is my best friend. "Who can put a price tag on the worth of a mother?" I love my mother and I also love all those here in Ohio who have adopted me as their daughter while I have been away from my family. Happy Mothers Day to all the wonderful mothers around the world! We would not be here if it weren't for you!<br /></div>
Love you guys!<br /></div>
Love, Sister Mathis<br />
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-48716741354787032952015-04-27T16:26:00.004-07:002015-04-27T16:26:57.135-07:00There's No Where Else I'd Rather Be!<br />
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This last week I came to the conclusion that I really, really love my mission. I cannot sum up in a short email pressed for time the emotion and love I feel for this sacred work. Nothing can compare, and nothing can trump the pure joy I feel each day as I lose myself a little more in this beautiful work. This last week was one of the best weeks of my mission and it was a good reminder to me of why this work is so vital.</div>
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The week started with a wonderful lesson with our investigators, the Smith family. I haven't shared much of their story and I will just briefly explain the miracles we have seen with this beautiful family. We were out walking one day and walked right past their house. Sister Ure commented to me "maybe we should try that house." I told her that I definitely felt like we should as well. So we turned around and make our way back to their house. We knocked on their door and talked to the husband for awhile about the Book of Mormon. We set up a time to come back and teach them together. During that first lesson we learned that just a week prior the wife had been praying for direction, and for truth and then lo and behold who came a knockin' on the door? The missionaries! That first lesson, as we taught about the restoration of Christ's church and the reality of God's love, was powerful. We invited the Smith family to pray and ask if Joseph Smith was truly one our Heavenly Father's chosen prophets. We also invited them to ask God if this was the true and living church. We went back for our next lesson and followed up on how their praying had been going. Sister Smith began to get emotional and said immediately after they had prayed together and asked the question about Joseph Smith, they felt "overwhelming joy and peace." I know our Heavenly Father answers prayers and I know it is through those fruits of the spirit we can seek spiritual confirmation. The Smith family has read all of first Nephi and has jumped right into Second Nephi. They came to church <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_125294022" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Sunday</span></span> and commented after that "we will definitely be back." I adore this family already. Sister Ure and I were laughing yesterday as we calculated that we have only known them for 13 days but we feel like we have known them forever!</div>
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We had interviews with President and Sister Daines this last week. Can I just say how inspired and how needed Mission Presidents are. Ray and Cindy, I am so excited for you to be such an inspiration and a beacon to your young missionaries. You will excel and make such an impact on your missionaries. I know my mission President and his sweet wife have made such a lasting impact on me. I have been praying and debating for some time now what to do about school and the end of my mission. I get home from my mission just days before school starts and have been a bit stressed about what to do. I have thought about going home mid-transfer to have a week more to prepare for school in the fall. As I met with President Daines, I felt the spirit confirm to me that I needed to stay until the very end. I told him I had never been one to quit a race before the last lap. He then told me "and if you know running techniques, you know you are supposed to run <strong>through</strong> the finish line. Not just <strong>to</strong> the finish line." He then with tears in his eyes promised me that I would feel such peace in my decision and the Lord world bless me tremendously for finishing the race I had entered to the fullest. I felt so much comfort and somehow knew that everything will work out when that time comes and until then I don't have to worry about it anymore!</div>
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I cannot even express to you guys how amazing little Dakota's baptism was. It was the most spiritual baptism I have ever been to, and it was for a 10 year old kid. He was beaming. This whole last week he had been counting down the days until his special day where his life would change forever. When the day finally came he was grinning from ear to ear. He invited anyone and everyone he saw to his baptism and was such a powerful missionary. One of the most tender parts of the whole baptismal service was watching Dakota look up at Bishop with adorning eyes as the Bishop recited the baptismal prayer in the font. You could see in Dakota's eyes how important his baptism was to him. He did not treat it lightly but understood the promise he was making with his Father in Heaven. After his baptism we had a chance to ask him how he felt. He said with all the excitement of a ten year old boy, "I feel so much better!" His mom and Grammy gave beautiful talks and the spirit was ever present the entire meeting. I feel so privileged to be a part of this family's life and to have had the sacred opportunity to work with Dakota. As Sister Ure and I have taught him I have learned more about my Savior. I think that it's little wonder the Savior spent so much time with the little children. Dakota has taught me more then anyone about my Savior and his love for me. They have been such examples to me and I can't imagine my life not knowing them.</div>
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We had an North American/ North East conference yesterday. It was a broadcast and we were delighted to hear from Neil L. Anderson along with other righteous leaders. One thing Elder Anderson said that I loved was, "We should not be afraid to share those things that have helped us to become who we are."</div>
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Shall we not go on in so great a cause?</div>
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I love you guys. I LOVE BEING A MISSIONARY!</div>
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Love, Sister Mathis</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-58132547053139686122015-04-20T20:37:00.001-07:002015-04-20T20:37:29.061-07:00The Light, Life and Hope of this missionary<br />
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Hi guys! I can't believe another week has flown by. Time is the strangest thing as a missionary. The days feel like weeks, and the weeks fly on by like days. I am grateful for each precious day in the Lord's service, in this amazingly beautiful and sacred work.</div>
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We had a neat experience this week with Ellen. We knew in order for us to accompany her to the temple we had to help her find a family file name she could take to the temple. We had done a little bit of her family history together and miraculously found that many of the members of her family have had their temple work done already. This created a slight challenge in helping her find a name she could take to the temple. I am no family history expert, and if you want the honest truth I really have no idea what I'm doing, but the following day we went over to help her find a name. I prayed that Heavenly Father would guide my fingers as I searched on the computer for one of her ancestors who had been waiting for her work to be done. Within moments we found a great great great grandmother named Mary and when we came across her name the Spirit completely filled the room. It was as if sweet Mary was there with us, and saying reverently to us, "I have been waiting for you." Ellen was able to take her name to the temple and provide the sacred ordinance of baptism for her deceased ancestor.</div>
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I love the temple. There is nothing like it. It is where earth and Heaven meet and we are able to feel a portion of what Heaven is like. It is full of peace and purity, it truly is the House of the Lord. We were so fortunate to have 4 recent converts from the Newark ward together in the temple. Seeing them dressed in white and glowing brought so much joy to my soul and I can't even imagine how happy our Heavenly Father, and also their ancestors must have felt in that moment for them. Two of the recent converts commented after the temple that being there was the best night of their lives. If you have not been to the temple I would strongly recommend that you set goals to get there. Allow the atonement to come into your life and do everything you can to be temple worthy. There are so many blessings that come from going to the temple.</div>
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Dakota is doing so so well. The other day we went over for a lesson and he was outside playing with a neighborhood friend. He went up and tapped his friend on the shoulder and then stood there and paused shyly for a minute. He then said with all the excitement of a 10 year old boy..."ummm <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1689725143" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">this Saturday</span></span> the 25th I'm getting baptized, and you're invited. Will you come?" He continues to teach me how easy and simple it can be to share the gospel. He was eager to pay his tithing <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1689725144" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Sunday</span></span> after our tithing lesson and is a true follower of Jesus Christ. I love him and the strides his family is making together.</div>
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I had the opportunity to finish the Book of Mormon again this last week and finish the challenge we had as a mission to read the Book of Mormon and highlight names and personal pronouns in reference to the Savior. Our Savior Jesus Christ, and His titles and personal pronouns appear over 5,000 times in the Book of Mormon. I believe not just because of this literal evidence, but because of the spiritual evidence I have received that the Book Of Mormon is another Testament of Jesus Christ. The Savior and His teaching fill literally almost every page. I have read this divine book 8 times on my mission. I do not say that to boast or to brag I say that because each and every time I have read it, I have desperately needed it. Each time I have read it, I have felt one step closer to my Savior and my Heavenly Father. They know us, they love us, and they are willing to do anything for us if we will only allow them to come into our lives and follow their council. There is nothing more powerful in missionary work then your testimony of the Book of Mormon and Jesus Christ combined with the Spirit.</div>
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My understanding of the atonement as I read it this time around deepened. I have recognized how enabling it is as I have prayed and allowed Christ's beautiful sacrifice to come into my life. I realized the atonement doesn't just cover sin, it covers any imperfection or shortcoming. It covers anger, frustration, or even pain. It covers heartache, disappointment or loneliness. It covers what I feel at the end of a long day when I question if I have done enough. Often times as I was reading and highlighting His words I felt as if He was talking directly to me. Our loving Savior emulatesplain humility. He was prepared and willing for the great and daunting task. He was and is a leader full of light, love, intelligence, grace, and perfect faith. He is meek, courageous, and obedient. He listened and continues to listen to the will of the Father and was diligent in following all of His commandments. He demonstrated in the most humble of ways great power and strength. He is honest, pure, a true leader, teacher, minister, brother, and example. He is beautiful and glorious and His radiant countenance "smiles" upon the righteous. He is constant, never changing, full of promise and perfect faith. He rose above all temptation and became a determined conqueror of truth. He is clothed in a white robe, and on His palms we are engraved never to be removed. I cannot fully express the deep and abiding love I have for my older brother. I add my testimony to that of the apostles,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 30px;">We bear testimony, as His duly ordained Apostles—that Jesus is the Living Christ, the immortal Son of God. He is the great King Immanuel, who stands today on the right hand of His Father. He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come. God be thanked for the matchless gift of His divine Son.</span></div>
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My invitation for all of you remains the same, continue to find Him, to truly come to know Him, to discover how personal His atonement and His teaching can be to you. I promise you it will bring everlasting happiness.</div>
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I love you guys!</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-50372935028544937222015-04-13T22:03:00.001-07:002015-04-13T22:03:37.603-07:00The Good, The Bad, The Ugly<br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Good- <span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span><span style="color: black;">We had a wonderful week. Here are a couple of highlights!</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span><span style="color: black;">1)We are proud new drivers of a 2015 Subaru. We switched cars with the Elders because we have so many exchanges, we needed a car that would allow us to travel more miles. The Elders were pretty bummed to give up their new car. We were thrilled. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span><span style="color: black;">2) I didn't get transferred!! I feel so blessed to be able to stay here in Newark with Sister Ure for at least one more transfer. What a tremendous miracle especially because I didn't want to miss sweet Dakota's baptism, and I know there is still work for me to do here and I am humbled and extremely grateful to continue to labor among the people here in Newark. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span><span style="color: black;">3)Fasting is powerful. Yesterday it was a beautiful hot Ohio spring day. We decided to have a special fast as a companionship. Although we were feeling physically weary we were feeling spiritually strong and ready to share the gospel with the world. Sister Ure and I also decided that instead of driving to our appointments we would walk around town. We ended up spending quite a bit of time in a newly discovered neighborhood and seeing so many tender mercies as we tracted around there. We met some incredible people full of faith and willing to hear more. We met a mother with a brand new baby who has been searching for truth so that she can teach her children. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span><span style="color: black;">4) The Elder's investigator George was baptized. It was a beautiful baptismal service. I love the spirit that can be felt instantly when you walk into a church building. Worries, concerns, and uncertainty are left at the door and instead peace, comfort and love can be felt. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span><span style="color: black;">5)Instead of us teaching Ellen this last week, she taught us! She used preach my gospel, scriptures, and personal experiences to teach us about keeping the Sabbath Day Holy. I was moved by the spirit at her growth and as she taught, she taught with great power. You could easily see the tremendous and beautiful power of the spirit work directly through her. This week we have the divine opportunity to attend the temple with her and do work for her ancestors. I cannot tell you how excited I am to see her in the temple dressed in white, pure and beautiful, and doing what she can to hasten the work. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span><span style="color: black;">5) Dakota and his parents all came to church <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_605475810" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Sunday</span></span>! I almost cried when I watched them all walk in looking so beautiful. Dakota was so excited to have them there with him. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Bad-<br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">1) <span style="color: black;">We moved out of our Taj Mahal of missionary apartments and into a new apartment. We had some cleaning to do, but have made our apartment a home. It's a bit of a change of scenery where we now live and a prime and perfect place to share the gospel</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">2) I now cannot leave the house without my SPF. The hot and humid Ohio summer is fast approaching. I acquired my first intense sunburn of the season #gingerprobs</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: blue;">The Ugly</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">- I said goodbye to three of my previous companions as they finished their missionary service. It has been incredible to have served alongside them and I know I have grown from their faithful and diligent examples. Saying goodbye to them was like saying goodbye to my family all over again. So proud of all of them and I know how proud our Heavenly Father is of them. This work goes by way too fast. My advice to all your future missionaries, make everyday count." One day you'll look back and wonder where all the time went. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saying Goodbye to Sister Wagstaff who we both had as a companion</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><br />As you can see the good always outweighs the bad. Everyday is a GREAT day in the life of a missionary! </span></span></div>
<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;">A scripture that I loved this week from the Book Of Mormon:</span><br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;">In third Nephi the Lord is teaching the Nephite people. I have always loved the scripture in the Doctrine and Covenants that reads, "Draw near unto me, and I will draw near unto you." As I was reading in 3 Nephi however I came across the Lord's uplifting and hope filled words, "Return unto me and I will return unto you." Remember you are never too far from the Lord's help. His hand is continuously outstretched. Return to Him, do everything you can to draw closer to Him. Remember that one day a long time ago, you were already with Him. You lept for joy when He courageously volunteered to come to earth to redeem you and me from the fall, from our wordly inperfections. Return to Him, He is waiting for you.</span><br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;">I love you guys! Make this week great!</span><br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;">Love, Sister Mathis</span></div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-40284608804509652632015-04-06T22:52:00.000-07:002015-04-06T22:52:43.974-07:00Happy Easter!<br />
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Okay now that<em> </em>I have bragged about this special place, I have to say Ohio is pretty well known for its road kill. In fact a little over a year ago when I first entered this magical place one of the first things I noticed was all the road-kill that decorated the streets. Well the other day I had the opportunity to go on an exchange in Mount Vernon. We were walking to a lesson and it was pouring rain. Fun fact when it rains here-- it pours! We were drenched and trying to walk as quickly as we could to our destination. I wasn't paying much attention to where I was stepping until suddenly I felt I should look down. My foot was in mid air ready to land back safely on the ground when I notice right beneath my foot was a rather large raccoon...only in Ohio would you almost step on a raccoon. That poor little guy.</div>
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Well this week was incredible. Here's a couple highlights of being a missionary. Because our exchange was in Mount Vernon we decided on the way home to Newark to take our lunch break and stop at a famous Amish bakery. What was even better about this bakery was that it is owned by an Amish family who joined the church close to three years ago. They are incredible examples and we loved every precious moment we had with them. We easily were touched by the faithful light they illuminated despite the intense trials and struggles they continue to face. We sang with the children and prayed with them, and my testimony was strengthened tremendously by this beautiful family. And of course we couldn't leave the Bakery without tasting one of their homemade delicious treats. It was a tender moment that I will never forget as I spent it with faithful Latter-Day Saints who have sacrificed so much to be where they are.</div>
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We had two super fun lessons this last week. One of which was with Ellen. We taught the importance of the commandments and how they are set in place to lead us to a happier life. As we taught each commandment we added an ingredient to our desired cake. Needless to say a recipe for a happier and safer life, a life that will lead us directly to the Savior of the world is to follow the commandments and remember our covenants we have made with the Father. The outcome of the cake was far sweeter than we even intended. I testify that is exactly how the outcome of our future can be if we put our trust in the One who knows us perfectly. We also had a lesson with cute little Dakota and taught him the importance of missionary work. We made him his own missionary badge and gave him some pass-along cards to hand out to friends or strangers who may need to know how much they are loved. He is continuing to grow and become molded by the perfect hand of our divine Savior. He is continuously more and more excited for his special baptismal day!</div>
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We had an wonderful family join us for conference. We have recently started teaching them, and are excited for the steps they have already taken toward their Savior Jesus Christ. They have a two year old son who is adorable! We are grateful for this family and hope and pray they can see the importance of the gospel and the ability it has to bless anyone's life regardless of their background.</div>
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We had our monthly Mission Leadership Council Meeting at the mission home and while we were there I felt the spirit and the love our my Savior literally penetrate my heart the moment the meeting started. It was an answer to my prayers. During my mission I have struggled at times. I have felt that I am doing all I can to help others feel the love of Christ, but sometimes lack feeling it in my own life. I have seen the Savior's love illuminate those around me but sometimes I get so caught up and forget to notice it filling me. We picked a different seat to sit in during this particular meeting, further back than normal and we began the meeting by singing "I Believe in Christ." As I looked to my right, hanging on the wall was a remarkable picture of the Savior. I couldn't believe how realistic the picture was. I started to get emotional. I felt as if I was singing these words directly to Him.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liz Lemon Swindle's beautiful portrait of the Savior</td></tr>
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I believe in Christ; he is my King!<div>
With all my heart to him I'll sing;</div>
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I'll raise my voice in praise and joy,</div>
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In grand amens my tongue employ.</div>
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I believe in Christ; he is God's Son.</div>
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On earth to dwell his soul did come.</div>
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He healed the sick; the dead he raised.</div>
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Good works were his; his name be praised.</div>
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It was as if I was saying directly to Him in two simple words...thank you, and in the picture tears were also filling His loving eyes. I felt the reality of His sacrifice. I felt loved and important in His eyes even though at times I fall short. I was grateful to sing the words of that song and bear my humble testimony that I know He lives.</div>
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We had the opportunity to watch a session of conference with the other Sister training leaders at the mission home with President and Sister Daines. During the <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1714531471" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Saturday</span></span> session of conference President joked with the missionaries and said "well there really should be no question about what you should do when you go home." Oh my goodness gracious we missionaries, with locked hearts, could not believe how many talks there were about marriage and family. Grateful for the importance of the family and how essential it is especially in God's plan but we somewhat had to laugh about the theme. One of my favorite take aways from conference was from Quentin L. Cook. He said with all the surety of his heart, "The Church has never been stronger!" Often times we wonder if our efforts are enough, we feel more people are going less active, and less people are joining the church. We worry about our leaders and the uncertainty of the world. How grateful I was for this comforting quote. The church has never been stronger. Let us all continue to fight for what's right and defend His sacred name. Let us do our part to strengthen our families and our friends! Our Heavenly Father needs you on His team today. It is a wonderful time to be a member of the Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.</div>
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I love my Savior. I love how merciful and loving He is. I have been reading in the Book Of Mormon in 3 Nephi about His ministry among the Nephities. I love picturing Him praying and weeping over these people whom He loves with His whole heart. I know everything He did was out of love. He would not have accomplished the atonement if it were not for His powerful and motivating, all encompassing amount of love. </div>
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Sister Mathis</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-66996667094400716662015-03-30T09:08:00.000-07:002015-03-30T09:08:14.431-07:00Converted and Comfortable<br />
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"The more converted we become the more comfortable we are with our religion, and we begin to feel an increasing desire for others to enjoy the blessings of the gospel." -from an Ensign article September 2012</div>
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Yesterday in fast and testimony meeting I felt compelled by Spirit to bear my testimony. I stood up in front of the crowd and declared the important truths I have come to know. At the end of my testimony I was overcome with emotion and I began to weep. I testified of how grateful I was to be a missionary, and to wear our Savior's name. I believe with my whole heart there is no greater calling then that of sharing the gospel with those we love. </div>
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This week was incredible and I think I began to feel more of how special of a calling it is to be a servant of the Lord. It was a stressful week where we were anxiously praying for things to fall into place.</div>
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I had the opportunity to go on an exchange with a sweet Sister from New Albany. We had a busy day and were working hard. We received a phone call about halfway through the day saying that our dinner appointment for the evening was canceled. We thought to ourselves of alternative possibilities for dinner. We thought of going home, and also debated going to a restaurant close by. At this point you're probably wondering why in the world I am telling you this pointless story. Well stay tuned, because this story became one of the most powerful and inspiring times of my mission and I can assure you that these little details matter. After some deliberation and prayer we both felt inspired to go to Olive Garden. I know our Heavenly Father works in mysterious ways, and I thought to myself what a funny prompting to go to Olive Garden. I didn't mind it one bit though since I love that place. Well Sister Preston and I enjoyed a nice dinner and had the sweetest waitress. We left a pass-along card on the table and started to make our way to the door. Right before we reached the doors our waitress came running up to us and said "Wait! I noticed your badges, and I was wondering what church you guys went to. My family and I have really been searching for a new church to attend." Sister Preston and I stood there for a moment awe-struck. We started to tell her our basic beliefs. We testified of Heavenly Father's plan and allowed the Spirit to come in. The Spirit was so strong right there in the middle of the restaurant and I know she felt it. She began to tear up as she told us that her 5 year old daughter had just lost her father to cancer and it had been a trying time for her family. We invited her to come to church to feel peace and love. Well guess what! This amazing lady with her 5 year old daughter showed up to church yesterday. It was a complete miracle from a small and simple prompting. I know how perfectly our Heavenly Father works. I love how He is involved in every detail, great or small. I know He led us to this precious and prepared daughter of His.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Ure, Harlee and me</td></tr>
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Our beautiful Sister Harlee entered the waters of baptism this weekend and was confirmed the following <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_648683086" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Sunday</span></span>. It was a very spiritual baptism. One of her best friends who introduced her to the church spoke and gave a beautiful talk. Her father and her sister both were able to come and her sister even stayed after for the Relief Society Broadcast. We are so proud of Harlee. We know the journey will be rocky and there is a long road ahead, but we know how much her Heavenly Father, that she now has a personal relationship, will help her as she continues to build upon her testimony. She also has an incredible ward family to stay by her side. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harlee surrounded by her beautiful and faithful Young Women Friends</td></tr>
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Okay one more exciting event of the week. Ahhh I can hardly contain myself!!!!!!!! Dakota is going to be baptized at the end of April!!!! We are so proud of this little 10 year old boy. He has probably taught me the most while I have been out on my mission. Together with his family he had been praying for a baptismal date and yesterday we received such a tender text from his mother saying he was ready.</div>
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If you can't tell. I LOVE THIS WORK! The stressful moments, the beautiful moments and everything in between.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harlee with Bishop Watt</td></tr>
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There is an amazing new Easter Mormon message and I invite you all to watch it. I add my testimony that I know He lives. How comforting that scripture is in the New Testament, "He is not here, for He has risen. My challenge is the same to all of you. Find him. Strengthen your relationship. He loves you perfectly and infinitely.</div>
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Happy Easter and enjoy General Conference!</div>
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<a href="http://www.mormon.org/easter" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">http://www.mormon.org/easter</a></div>
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Love,<br />
Sister Mathis<br />
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-29793360950950386112015-03-23T08:54:00.000-07:002015-03-23T08:54:37.914-07:00Hello Friends!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look who's now an official mormon missionary!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sign said free so we took them and now we are missionaries on bikes!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Sister King, Sister Schauers, Clarence and his stepson Dan</td></tr>
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I thought I would start this email by explaining three random yet somewhat humorous things that occurred this week.</div>
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1) As we were driving to a good ol appointment going down main street we saw a man with an eloquent ponytail and some stunner shades walking two nicely groomed goats on a leash. I thought to myself..well if this doesn't say Newark, I don't know what does. So what did we do. We found a nice parking spot for the car ran up to the man took a picture with his lovely goats and then tried to teach him about the restoration of Christ's original church.</div>
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2)As we were driving down an old country road running slightly a bit behind for our meeting we saw two bikes nicely nestled on the side of the road with two beautiful beaming signs that said "free." That was music to poor missionaries ears! So we now have two bicycles to cruise around town on!</div>
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3)We got a text from some other missionaries asking us when St Patrick's day was. Their message went something like this, "we figured out of all the missionaries in the mission, Sister Mathis would be the one to know when St. Patrick's day was." I thought to myself ha ha very funny let's all laugh at the red-head.</div>
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This week was incredible. I have specifically gained a stronger testimony of the power of fasting. <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_2085322989" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">On Saturday</span></span> night our zone-leaders called us and said, "is there anyone that could be baptized <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_2085322990" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Saturday</span></span> the 28th, the last Saturday of March?" They explained to us how every zone in the mission had reached their zone goals for the month of March except our zone. Sister Ure and I looked at each other and said, "well no pressure!" We have been working with Harlee and had previously extended two dates for her to pray about. Up until this point she had been leaning toward the <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_2085322991" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">April 11th</span></span> date. We decided to join together as a companionship and fast for our sweet sister to be baptized the 28th. We planned on having a lesson with Harlee after church. We got together to start our planned lesson on the commandments and Harlee very subtly mentioned, "Oh Sisters guess what...I'm getting baptized on the 28!" We both just sat there in utter amazement at the Lord's hand. The spirit had worked on her and encouraged her to move her baptismal date. I know how mindful our Heavenly Father is of us. I know there comes a divine power when we call upon the powers of Heaven and pray and fast for a specific reason. I know that Heavenly Father was ready for this beautiful daughter of His to make this sacred promise with Him.</div>
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We also had a wonderful lesson with Dakota. He impressed me as we talked about the atonement and the enabling power it contains, by saying a prayer at the end of the lesson and apologizing for the little things he had done wrong. I loved how quick he was to act on the principles of the gospel. I love working with children. They carry a special spirit with them and they are eager and excited to follow their Savior.</div>
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The Easter musical fireside was wonderful! I loved seeing families and people who have impacted my life from all of the different area's I have served. Watching Clarence and Dan walk in, hugging sweet Sam, seeing Ellen surrounded by friends and family makes every single day of this work absolutely worth it. I love with my whole heart being a missionary.</div>
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I know our Savior lives. My invitation to you is to find Him. I love you guys!</div>
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Love Sister Mathis</div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-7887610360578812912015-03-16T15:40:00.001-07:002015-03-16T15:40:29.983-07:00There is Sunshine in My Soul<br />
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"Oh there's sunshine blessed sunshine </div>
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When the peaceful happy moments roll.</div>
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When Jesus shows his smiling face,</div>
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There is sunshine in the soul....and outside!" </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happiness is just happening to run into Sister George at the temple.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We're outside, without jackets or tights!!</td></tr>
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It has been a beautiful week here in Nerk Ahia! We have seen the sun! We even went a whole day without tights for the first time in months! We are celebrating this happy weather. Missionary work is great all the time, but it's really great when it's beautiful outside. We have been able to talk to more people as they also have been outside enjoying the wonderful weather, and we have noticed how much happier people are because of the simple change in weather.<br /></div>
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We were able to contact an amazing referral this last week. It was a referral that for some reason we were supposed to receive weeks ago, but never did. It was for a sweet lady from Ghana who put her information online in hopes of receiving a copy of the bible. When we finally got all the information weeks later we decided to contact her immediately. I know the Lord's timing is completely perfect. When we showed up to meet her she had just walked in the door from picking her daughter up from school, and it just so happened to be her day off from work. She was beginning to lose hope that someone would come to bring her bible, and then there we were with bright smiling faces standing on her front porch eager to meet her. I have a great knowledge that just when we are willing to give up the fight, our Heavenly Father will send us aid. I know He did so with His only begotten Son. When Christ was in the garden of Gethsemane, and He was suffering and bleeding from every pore our Heavenly Father sent Him an angel to strengthen Him and to encourage Him to keep fighting and endure to the end. I know our Heavenly Father answers prayers and I know that when we follow the Spirit we are blessed. I know that because we acted immediately we were able to find this precious daughter of our Heavenly Father and share the gospel with her. She is so prepared to hear the message of the restored gospel and we are delighted to have met her.<br /></div>
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Our stellar 17 year old investigator is thriving. She has read almost through 2 Nephi in the Book of Mormon. She claims, "I really have no idea what Isaiah is talking about." I told her that's okay no one really does. She was excited to read 2 Nephi 31 about the gospel of Jesus Christ. She was so thrilled when she said, "I actually understood what it was talking about!" As we had a spiritual lesson with her outside in the beautiful Ohio spring weather we extended baptism to her again. This time we received a more definite response. She knows it is the next step and she can now better understand that baptism is not the end but merely the beginning to a new pathway and a new life.<br /></div>
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Elder Uchtdorf gave a wonderful talk titled "Forget Me Not." I would encourage you all to read it. But I want to reiterate his important 5 points that we are never to forget.<br /><br />1) forget not to be patient with yourself.<br />2) forget not the difference between a good sacrifice and a foolish sacrifice<br />3) forget not to be happy now<br />4) forget not the “why” of the gospel<br />5) forget not that the Lord loves you<br /></div>
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Forget not how much I love you guys!!<br /></div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1980275362631978463.post-46025159578400235022015-03-09T10:18:00.002-07:002015-03-09T10:18:33.092-07:00"Be still and Know that I am God." -Psalm 46:10 <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;">I have felt so much comfort and peace in this last week and I am so grateful for how mindful our Heavenly Father is of us. I love this sacred and special work. This morning as I got onto email, I had many emails telling me of a surgery my mom had this past week. That was news to me. Immediately I felt worried, but as I read her sweet email and the faith and trust she has in our Heavenly Father I felt such a dramatic sense of peace. The scripture came to mind "be still, and know that I am God." Although I am far from home, I know there is someone close by watching over my mom. I know my Heavenly Father has been with her and because of the power of the Priesthood and prayer, her recovery has been incredible. I know through this trial that my mom and I too have felt the love of God and His hand in all that we do. I love how omniscient, all-knowing, and all-powerful He is, and no matter where we are He is mindful of us.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Chadburn, Ellen, Sister Watt and me</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Ellen and me at the Columbus Temple</td></tr>
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This last week was bittersweet as I said goodbye to my dear friend and companion Sister Chadburn. Before we went to the transfer meeting we had the opportunity to walk around the temple grounds and the foyer of the temple with our sweet sister Ellen. Almost instantaneously as she stepped on the grounds, tears began to flow from her eyes. She was humbled and she knew she was walking on sacred ground. She felt the spirit and the love of our Heavenly Father stronger then ever. We had that special moment with Ellen, Sister Chadburn, and sweet Sister Watt to simply be still and allow the spirit to touch our hearts. I love moments like that! And I know it is one that I will remember forever and I was able to spend it with so many that I love. We also are so fortunate to be able to attend the temple <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1970588473" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">tomorrow</span></span> as a zone. It has been too long. I absolutely love the temple and the sacred work we can participate in.<br /></div>
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I have loved doing my family history work and keep searching for a precious name I can take to the temple. I was able to connect to my Grandpa's brother Norman Watts through <a href="http://ancestry.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">ancestry.com</a>. What a neat opportunity that was to find his tree and compare it to mine. Family history work has never been so easy and so accessible. Take advantage of it! Prepare those names for your ancestors so that you can help them receive the many blessings you now enjoy.<br /><br /><br />We had stake conference this last week and had the privilege of having Elder Gordon Smith of the seventy in attendance. One thing he said that really stuck out to me was, "it is a huge blessing to participate in the rescue of souls." Our stake president also challenged us during the conference to make the atonement of Christ meaningful and personal to me personally. He said, "The Savior looks at you and sees someone worth saving, someone worth loving and sacrificing for." I testify to you of how real and personal that love is. </div>
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I am still serving in the blessed land of Newark. I am going on 6 months here and I am so grateful for each precious minute I have had to labor in this part of the Lord's vineyard. My new companion Sister Ure is a phenomenal missionary. She is filled with joy and instantly we became great friends. I am grateful for this time I have to serve alongside her. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sisters King, Mathis, Ure and Thomas</td></tr>
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Charlie Chaplin once said, "a day without laughter is a day wasted" so with that being said, here's a bit of a funny story. Sister Ure and I both love to run so we have been waking up at 6 to get a good workout in. One morning in particular it was probably a solid -10 degrees with a wind chill of 100 miles per hour. We enjoyed our run though as we made our way back to the apartment we noticed a nice frosty layer of ice on our eyelashes that looked much like we had a thick covering of white mascara on. Our eyebrows were also completely frosted over. I have never felt such a sensation of having your eyelashes stick to each other. It was pretty safe to say we looked like Jack Frost. Well on a bright note (pun intended) it is warming up and spring is right around the corner! We are loving this weather that has been over 20 degrees:)</div>
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I love you guys so very much!<br /></div>
Sister Mathis<br /><div>
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Lauren Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13753135934272172881noreply@blogger.com0