To illustrate why I chose that title.
If I haven't mentioned it already, we often do service at this warehouse called
"Soles 4 Souls", a non-profit organization that donates shoes around the globe. We help organize the warehouse, and sort shoes. Because we volunteer there so much, some missionaries have traded their shoes in for some other shoes. I decided to do the same and found some very good work boots, in addition to some new basketball shoes. I later came to find out I had 2 new pairs of shoes that cost roughly $150 each! I did not know they were expensive, I just thought they looked cool and now I'm very glad I traded my shoes in!
If I haven't mentioned it already, we often do service at this warehouse called
"Soles 4 Souls", a non-profit organization that donates shoes around the globe. We help organize the warehouse, and sort shoes. Because we volunteer there so much, some missionaries have traded their shoes in for some other shoes. I decided to do the same and found some very good work boots, in addition to some new basketball shoes. I later came to find out I had 2 new pairs of shoes that cost roughly $150 each! I did not know they were expensive, I just thought they looked cool and now I'm very glad I traded my shoes in!
Prior to my entering the MTC, I made a goal to understand my Savior more. I would study books about his life and ministry, and hopefully grow to understand him and feel closer to him in the process. I have been studying "Jesus the Christ" by James Talmage in addition to "The Infinite Atonement" by Tad R. Callister. Both are exceptional books written by very well versed authors. However, it was the Book of Mormon that has thus far offered my greatest insight. While studying 4th Nephi, I came across a rather profound verse.
4 Nephi 1:31
"Nevertheless, and notwithstanding all these miracles, the people did harden their hearts, and did seek to kill them, even as the Jews at Jerusalem sought to kill Jesus, according to his word"
Luckily there is no one trying to kill me (I hope), but there are people who attempt to scare me and/or discourage me from the work of the Father.
As I go out and share the message of the restoration and of the Plan of Salvation, I am experiencing a very slight glimpse of what Christ Experienced.
If I truly want to learn more about Christ, I must follow his example and do the things he did, to share the truth and love the people. Even in rejection am I drawing closer to my Savior, for then I know the sadness he must have felt.
The bottom line is, if you want to learn and draw closer to Jesus Christ, follow his example!
For example, many LDS stakes have "Pioneer Trek" to give the youth an appreciation of what the Pioneers went through. Similarly we have 2 year missions, where we go throughout the world and try to share the Joy we have felt by living the Gospel.
I am in no way claiming to have the same experiences as Jesus did, but I am saying that we can all begin to understand him by going about our Father's work, just as he did.
You really don't need a calling or a name tag to do the work. The only things you need are a broken heart and Contrite spirit. You must be willing to listen to the Holy Ghost, and his guidance.
D&C 4:3
"Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work;"
Don't wait for the call. You already have it
The mission field has been very enlightening and I hope my ramblings somehow help people to have the motivation to share truth.
I love you all!! Thanks for the letters and Emails! 🤟
-Elder Vance
