Katelyn Elgaaen in Utica New York: March 13, 2017 4th Floor Last Door

Hello Everyone!

This week has blended together.

The time is starting to fly, and Sister Stowell agrees with me that I have indeed grown (spiritually). There are things that before coming on my mission I took for granted or thought of as silly attributes, but I know that everything that I am able to do- all the things that I have been able to share- were given to me for a reason.

When you are in an area that is wide spread with few people in between, daily planning can get a little stiff. Saturday was like that. We planned the entire day, had backup plans, and a bucket full of hope that everything would turn out. That morning even before leaving to start the day everything started to fall through the cracks. Every appointment, and every service we planned did not work out. Being the inexperienced missionary that I am, I expressed my belief that this was all a test and that we would have a "fourth floor last door" day. Sister Stowell rolled her eyes but we continued attempting to find out where the Lord wanted us. The end of the day took forever to arrive, we had been out walking for almost two hours in the 7 degree weather, and we still had not found anyone to teach. Saying a prayer in my mind I thanked Heavenly Father for the chance that I have to be on his mission, and expressed to him that I hoped during our long and exhausting day we had shown him our diligence and willingness to do whatever he asked. No sooner than I had finished my prayer, my frozen toes and body started to warm up! It was almost unbelievable, but by the time we arrive in our apartment, I was not really that cold.

The next day was amazing! all of our hard work paid off. We got two new investigators, and one of them stated before the lesson was over that he wanted to be baptized as soon as he could... It was unreal. Every lesson we set happened and were over flowing with the spirit.

I know that Heavenly Father answers prayers. I know that he is almighty and that this is His work. Our day of being 'unproductive' was really a test to see- are we willing to obey the little commands, even when the blessings are not seen. It was to prepare us for bigger tasks that laid ahead.

Life is like a puzzle. Everyone you meet brings a new piece and light to the board. I am so grateful that I am able to watch my brothers and sisters come unto Christ and add to this wonderful Gospel.

I know this church is true, those who I am teaching know it as well. Anyone who is reading this who wants to know just has to ask Heavenly Father. He Will make his love and truth known to you.

Remember, your first identity is Child of God. He wants to see you progress. ASK for his help. Ask for his forgiveness. Ask for his guidance. He WILL answer. All you have to do is be willing to ACT on what he tells you.

Have an amazing week!!

love, Sister Elgaaen