October 8th, 2012

FAMILY!!

First things first.  General conference was amazing. I bet you're all wondering what my reaction was when President Monson announced the new age for missionaries. Well first he announced the guys and I thought "well that's cool..I like it." and then he started leading up to the sisters. And I thought "....no way....nooooooo.." and then he did it. Announced 19 year old girls can go on their missions. "WHAT?!!?" I completely freaked out. Thank goodness we were at a member's home...yet they still looked at me weird but I'm use to that.  I prayed FOREVER that they'd change the age and they finally do it!!! WHEN I'M ON MY MISSION! I'm not bitter....haha. Ok I'm imperfect, don't judge me. I'm trying not to be bitter!! But it really was a testimony to me that God trusts the rising generation.  That He needs them because "the work is hastening" as Elder Holland said.  They haven't changed the age requirement since the 1960's!! History just happened.  So weird to think that I'm in the "old" generation of missionaries now.  The church is true. His Gospel is being spread everywhere.  Did you notice they mentioned alot the scripture in John 21: 15-17 where Christ asks Peter if he loves Him?  Elder Christensen (who also spoke in GC) gave a talk to us when he came with Elder Cook for the mission tour.  He talked about that scripture.  He talked about why would Christ ask Peter, not once or twice but three times if he loved Him.  And everytime he responded yes and Christ would say "feed my sheep."  Bottom line...what we learn is Christ is saying "it's not about YOU, Peter, It's about my sheep." It's something so important for us missionaries to know. I'm still trying to fully apply it but I'm not gonna lie. It's hard.  Every morning is SO hard to get up..sometimes I don't feel like talking to people...I still struggle with Spanish...sometimes I don't feel like getting ready or wearing a skirt etc.  But then I think...those are all selfish things keeping me from doing what the Lord wants me to do.  "It's not about YOU Hermana Ruiz...it's about my sheep." As a human being the concept of time is so distorted.  Sometimes I really do think I'll be a full time missionary forever but I know I won't be and I need to take advantage.  It's what keeps me going. Every morning I try to wake up at the thought "What can I do for someone today?".  It's helped alot.  Like Elder Hales recently mentioned "feed my sheep" is a call to every christian.  And as Elder Holland so beautifully taught that "the crowning characteristic of love is loyalty."  Are we loyal to God?  Are we following his greatest commandment which is to love Him?  How are we showing we love God? By following Him.  By feeding His sheep.  You don't have to be a full time missionary to do that.  God gives us the opportunity to serve everyday. You'll be happier if you do it. I can promise you that. I love the work. I'm grateful He chose me to be part of it. I'll forever be indebt to Him with the many blessings I've received on my mission.  My heart aches of the idea of not wearing a tag that bears His name...but for the mean time I'll gladly and proudly wear it. God and His Son Jesus Christ live. They love us. Just look at your blessings...it's evidence of that.  Now show your love For them by feeding His sheep.  I love you all. I feel your prayers everyday. I hope you feel mine.