Work!

 

Hello Everyone!

Guess what? Caleb got BAPTIZED AND IT WAS BEAUTIFUL!!! So yes that was amazing. Saturday we were going to have the baptism at 11 and so we got there at 9:30 to start filling up the font and set everything up and so we pulled up to the church in the rain and there Caleb was standing with his bag and a that sheepish smile on his face. We were all like '!' You're here early! and he was all like. 'I wanted to be here' and it was the sweetest thing ever! So Caleb helped set up for his own baptism and the look on his face when we told him we were going to fill the font and then walked right into the men's bathroom was priceless. He figured it out quickly but that initial shock was quite good. And then he was worried about all these little details and we were just so happy for him. It was beautiful! His testimony was wonderful as well. He talked about being so grateful for the example that Jesus Christ set for him so that he could know what was right and he talked about how happy he was and it was just... perfect. The next day as we watched him get up and prepare to get the holy ghost it was amazing to listen as the blessing specifically stated a temple marriage in his future and I just started tearing up. Sunday was such a blessing. Robin passed the sacrament for the first time and had his temple recommend interview, Caleb got the holy Ghost, Allen came to church and had a great time, and another blessing that made my joy just about full was that Tangier came! He was there at church and it was the most amazing thing to see my first convert sitting there side by side with Caleb and just knowing that God is looking out over them and I just... It was so... I can't even describe it. God is so real and so loving and so kind to all of His children. That doesn't mean that things are easy but they are so worth it, every time you think about quitting just know that there is something great in store in front of you.

So other highlights of this week was we got a seventy visit from Elder Arnold who in the last general conference talked about going to the rescue. Him being here and being able to hear his words was such an amazing experience. He sat us down and told us how it was and he talked about how yes... your obedient... but God needs more than obedience he needs consecration! And that means understanding and using every single tool you've got! That means asking for referrals that means talking to everyone, that means forgiving yourself! That means letting go of the past and holding on to the rod. That means helping and lifting and making cookies for your ward leaders! That means knowing when to teach a 15 minute lesson and when to teach a 45 minute lesson. And above all else it means relying on God first. Always. It was a fantastic meeting and we left just like he wanted us too. With Fire in our veins ready to do what needs to be done!

We're so excited to keep working in this area and with these people because there is so much work to be done! We can't do it alone it's going to take everyone! When they say every member a missionary they aren't just saying words. Members are so, so important and until we start working together we will never reach our full potential. This is more than a church this is the kingdom of God and every citizen in that kingdom can change the world! You are a vital part of the plan of salvation and that means something! Isn't that amazing?

I wish I could fully convey to all of you the joy that I've felt in this past week. Things weren't perfect, they never will be in this life. But things worked out. And if we keep that eternal perspective in mind they always will.

I love you all so much and I hope you know how much I pray for each and everyone of you. There is an urgency to the work and it won't ever end and THAT is a blessing beyond compare.

I know that God lives, I know Jesus is the Christ, and I know these things by the power of the Holy Ghost.

Love,

-Sister Skinner