Week Nine: The Macko Children

Hiya! This week was a rollercoaster. I had a mix of difficult and incredible moments.

Andy, a new convert from a nearby area rented out a room at the top of a hotel and bought us lunch

On Wednesday a recent convert named Andy took our entire district to lunch. Because he isn't a fan of crowds, he rented out a section of the Hilton Hotel restaurant. It was awesome. I ate a classic British meal: Chicken Leek pie, mash, and veggies with a lemon tart for dessert.

Chicken and Leek Pie

Andy shared his conversion story and the effect that one of the Elders in our district, Elder Seno, had on him. His life completely changed after he met the missionaries. It's encouraging to see real people, first hand, with their experiences like that. It reassured me that the Lord has people in England prepared for me to help.

I am counting my blessings because we found a new place to run! It's called Sheffield and Tinsely Canal if you wanna go find it on google maps. Every morning we run alongside it as the sun is rising... loads better than running in circles by a busy street. It's the little things, HA!

Worked out so hard

Me, Honey and Sister Mottlova

The middle of the week was a bit harder for me. I felt discouraged because missions are SUCH HARD WORK and I felt like I wasn't going to see my family again. I have only been out 2 months and I won't see them for another 16. But, despite the difficulty, I have been able to turn to the Lord and rely on him more than I ever have in my life. I am starting to discover how to apply Christ's Atonement in my life EVERY SINGLE DAY! I feel like I am running a marathon and I've just about burnt out, but somehow I still have energy. I know that that energy is from a higher source.

Kids writing their testimonies

Distplay at the Baptism of the Macko children

Preparing for the Baptism

Picture display for the baptism

Nikolas, Anna Maria and Geiza Macko

This past Saturday was the baptism of Geiza, Nikolas, and Anna Maria Macko! It was such a special day. After they were baptized, they bore their sweet testimonies. The ward was so touched and I believe they have found a new spark of excitement for missionary work! We will continue to teach the Macko family in hopes to help them get sealed in the temple. They will always have a special place in my heart.

Sacrament meeting was extra special as the children were given the Gift of the Holy Ghost. I felt the spirit overwhelmingly strong. In that moment, I know of surety the power of the Spirit. It was incredible.

Anna Marie wrote her prayer

In my personal study this week I discovered something. All of our "scripture heros": Alma, Nephi, King Benjamin, Abinidi, etc, always acknowledge the Lord in the GOOD times. They talk about how they are able to do things through the Lord's power and and how it's by his hand that they were delivered. They are examples of humility. This reminded me that I shouldn't only be remembering and relying on God when times are hard, but I should be acknowledging him when things are going well in my life. This week, I want you to read Mosiah 2:9-41 (write that down so you don't forget). King Benjamin is a wonderful example of acknowledging the Lord in ALL things. Also look for the promised blessings when we choose to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ.