The Reason for the Season

Hi Family and Friends!

This week has been another stellar week!

Here's a few highlights!

Caroling

We decided to go out caroling to the houses around us singing hymns. It was really great! We were able to talk to a few people about the Savior and our purpose as missionaries. And, they seemed to enjoy the hymns! We did too. I also found that I have zero lung capacity! Haha! But, the Spirit was so strong! It was so wonderful!

Surprise Gifts

First off, gifts are not the reason for the season. However, as a missionary you really like getting mail. (Especially packages) That being said, we had a long day and when we got home, to our surprise there was a bag full of little packages. We were amazed. At first I thought, "Did someone drop this off to the right house?" However, it was for Sister DeGraw and I! We were happy about that. We brought them in and found that there was a package per day until Christmas. We scavenged for a senders name but couldn't find it. So, we still don't know who the little gifts are from. However, they sure brightened our day. (Thanks as well to everyone for their letters, gifts, love and support! I sure appreciate it!)

Ward Christmas Party

We also had our ward Christmas party this week! It was so great! We had 2 people we're teaching come and we also met at least 8 people that weren't members or were returning members. It was a lovely evening full of remembering the Savior through scripture, song and good conversation. 

Thought this week.

One thing I've been reminded of, is that life is hard. But, that's how it is supposed to be. If it wasn't hard, we wouldn't learn anything. It's like Elder Holland says, "We can't expect this life to be easy. As it wasn't easy for Him. Salvation is not a cheap experience. " That was paraphrased. But, Elder Holland is absolutely right. The work is hard. Life is not easy. Why would it be easy if there's so much on the line? We have to be on our best game all the time as Satan doesn't take breaks. I took a moment this week to reflect on this. I found there were a few things I really could do better to keep Satan behind and help me come closer to my Heavenly Father. And, with the holidays here I've truly been reminded of how grateful I am to my Savior, Jesus Christ. It is because of Him that I am able to learn and grow in this life. It is because of Him that I can keep Satan out of my life and truly find eternal joy in the journey. It is because of Him that after all I do, I can live with my Heavenly Father again. I know this gospel is true. I would invite y'all to share your testimony of the Savior with those around you. We all need Him. We can help others come to know Him better through the gospel of Jesus Christ. As we share our testimony with others, ours will grow as well. 

I love y'all! Have a very Merry Christmas! 

Love,

Sister Stone

1. The surprise gifts

2. Car Selfie