Chapter 73: Beer Bison and Revelation

Hi y'all! This was a good busy week! 

We started the week off going on exchanges with the Spartanburg 2nd Sisters. Sister Bodell and I spent the exchange in my area. She's an absolute queen. We had such a good time! One thing I love about Sister Bodell is the love that she shows to everyone we talk with. 

Thursday we had a lesson with our friend Tenisha. I love her so much! She is so in touch with the Spirit. And even though we're sharing some things that are very different from what she's grown up with, she is still willing to listen to what we bring to her and to keep commitments we extend to her! I'm so excited to see her continue to grow in the Gospel.

Friday was Zone Conference! My last one! I got to conduct the meeting, do a musical number on the cello with Elder Arbizu on the violin,(he's literally so incredibly gifted), and give a departing testimony. President and Sister Hamblin gave such good Spiritual trainings. Sister Hamblins' was on Faith. She talked about how faith isn't just something we work for, it's a gift from God. We read Ether 12:27 and she said "Christ is not just asking us to go through the motions, He's asking us to become something." And that faith is "making Christ the reason for our decisions". 

President Hamblin talked all about personal revelation. I learned so much! Mostly about the importance of personal revelation and how frequently re can receive it. He talked about how conversion is the result of constant personal revelation. It's another layer to our relationship with Heavenly Father. How amazing is that? Our Father in Heaven loves us so much that He is going to give us personal direction and comfort! It takes work to receive this revelation. Just like the Sons of Mosiah; through much fasting, prayer, and scripture. Just think for a minute about this--> every prayer can lead to personal revelation. How does that change the way you view prayer? It definitely made a change for me. I've been working on being more genuine with the Lord in my prayers. Finally, one of the biggest things that stood out to me. Receiving revelation, especially for this work, brings joy. It's not a labourous task we wish would end, but something that we can find joy in and eagerly move forward. 

I also had my departing interview with President Hamblin. Best interview in the world. I am for sure going to keep emailing and bugging him when I go home. I adore the Hamblins so much! 

Y'all. I am so excited for this week. It's Holy Week. What an amazing opportunity we have to study the last week of the Saviors life leading up to His Atonement and sacrifice for us. One of my favorite things in the South is seeing all the crosses draped with a purple sash, and knowing that on Easter morning they will be changed to white. How beautiful is that? The hope that comes from Christ's resurrection. It's now one of my favorite things to read about in the Book of Mormon. And it's ALL OVER IT. The Book of Mormon has such a special place in my heart. And I would invite y'all to put as much enthusiasm into Easter this week as you would Christmas. 

Always remember God loves you, Jesus loves you, and I love you!

-Sister Ray