So... tomorrow is the day. Actually, tonight at 7 I'm being set apart as a missionary, so after that there's no more internet surfing, Facebook, or texting. No more TV and movies, or non-churchly music. Three Skype calls home for the whole mission. Yeah, it's hard-core. For the next 18 months I have one purpose, and that purpose is serving others and helping them live Christ's gospel. Personally, I don't think it's too much to ask for a year-and-a-half of complete focus on the Lord. Because if you believe that the gospel is true--which I do, I really do--then this mission is at the top of the list of the most important things I will do in my life. And you can't do it nearly as effectively if you are distracted by Buzzfeed quizzes, a new season of Sherlock, making career plans, or even constant phone calls home. A mission is beyond a full-time job.
I am not going to pretend that leaving everything about 'normal' life behind is easy. I have spent a majority of the past year-and-a-half feeling terrified, inadequate, and unworthy of the call. However, I can happily say that putting my trust in God and doing as He has asked has brought me reassurance and a sense of calm. It really works.
Since I am going to be so far removed from you all, I'd like to thank you for your love and support before I go. A mission requires a lot of selflessness (I'm not always good at that) in order to "Forget yourself and go to work". It is so much easier to give love when you feel it, and all the love I have felt from you as I've been preparing to leave has bolstered my desire to serve. Thank you, and may God be with you till we meet again.
I am not going to pretend that leaving everything about 'normal' life behind is easy. I have spent a majority of the past year-and-a-half feeling terrified, inadequate, and unworthy of the call. However, I can happily say that putting my trust in God and doing as He has asked has brought me reassurance and a sense of calm. It really works.
Since I am going to be so far removed from you all, I'd like to thank you for your love and support before I go. A mission requires a lot of selflessness (I'm not always good at that) in order to "Forget yourself and go to work". It is so much easier to give love when you feel it, and all the love I have felt from you as I've been preparing to leave has bolstered my desire to serve. Thank you, and may God be with you till we meet again.