At the Misstionary Training Center (MTC) we were told missionaries were sometimes called to certain mission presidents. We have had the privilege of serving under the visionary and inspired leadership of President and Sister Bowman, who love the Lord, their missionaries, and the people of the South. Under their direction, there has been a five-fold increase in the number of baptisms in this area (1014 new members in 2010!).
The obedience and faith of the missionaries is astounding. For example, under direction of the President they got rid of their couches, only eat for half hour per meal, and do not eat at member’s homes unless there is someone there for them to teach. These young men and women get up at 0630 and go to bed at 1030 after grueling days of tracting. Our dear district leader Elder Bradbury (left) walked holes in the gel liners he put in his shoes. The chemical burned all the callouses and skin off his feet, but he just kept right on walking regardless of the pain. That kind of dedication produces miracles e.g. a young married soldier saw our Elders riding their bikes in the hot sun and hailed them down, requesting to be baptized, so Elder Bradbury got a chance to get off his feet and teach.
We set goals, not because we have power to control outcomes, but because we want to demonstrate our willingness to do God’s will. If we are aligned with what He would have us do, He then produces the outcomes. It doesn’t take long before our belief becomes deep abiding trust and we begin to rejoice in our privilege, no matter the cost.
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