Elder Johnson

Email #34

November 22, 2010

Fam-
I hear it is a little cold there! Lucky... haha. I am starting to see Christmas tress and lights... it doesn’t have the same effect without the cold! But it also serves for something good; helping to keep the real focus of Christmas, something that we battle with each year. I am positive that the two Christmas days that we spend on the mission are and will always be special ones . . . when we are able to really escape from the worldly aspect a little. Say hello to the Johnson’s for me, and tell me what city in LA they are from... I tahunga? Something like that. I hope the wedding For Stacey goes well, tell her congrats for me, that is really the greatest news ever. Love each and every one of you, don't forget that. -Elder Johnson


All-
Well, I am a little short on words today, I didn't take very good notes of the week and in this moment I am at a loss. I have been full of thought this week; About how I can be a better person, a better missionary, and if I really am doing enough...doing what the Lord expects of me. We learn a lot everyday, but am I really the teacher of the gospel that the Lord expects me to be? I KNOW the gospel in my heart, and it is something that cannot be moved...do what you will, I know who I am and why I am here...but sometimes I lack the ability to transmit my burning testimony and knowledge that if people will build upon this foundation, they CAN NOT FALL. It is a foundation of rock, our redeemer, and as anyone who has tried digging through rock, it isn't easy, but once we have struggled to build that foundation through our hard work, nothing can knock it down.
I look forward everyday to be able to learn more about the gospel. I am going to dedicate more time this month to think about my savior specifically and His role in my life, for through him, I have life. I don't think I fully comprehend how dependent I am on Him, but as I study I look forward to understanding more about Him, His love, and how I can be more like Him.

Thanks for all of your prayers.

We started the legal wedding of Narcisio and Lucilene this week. . . They are AWESOME. he is the man who felt like he was in the clouds the first time he went to church. We have Family with them tonight. I know that as the seed of their faith grows and as they root themselves in this gospel, their lives will change, and gain a whole new meaning...and one day, they will be married in the temple . . . it could even be while I am on the mission : )

We also taught a medicine man who has hundreds of idols in his hows. . . he is going to be baptized next week! He is a super interesting almost Hippy-like guy and I love him. His name is José. To be simple, the spirit touched him and he knows the church is true.

Alrighty. signing off. Hope the Christmas season is starting off well for all!

Love you all- Elder Taylor Ray