Jandira: Transformation of Hearts

This week literally flew by and my companion and I are both shocked that the transfer is already coming to an end. It feels like just yesterday was the start of this transfer.

Thursday we had a big mission wide conference, which was an absolute party. When you have that many missionaries together in one room, singing hymns, or listening to trainings, the spirit is powerful. 

It seemed to me like everyone training was focused on the same thing, the transformation of hearts because of the gospel of Jesus Christ. If there is one thing that I have learned on my mission is that the gospel of Jesus Christ moves people. 

Marcelly and Victor are one example. This week we challenged them to be baptized, and they accepted. They are both 10 years old and my heart was so full the next day when they came up to us and told us they had been reading the book of Mormon together and praying. Since the time we have started teaching them I can see that they have changed as they have put into practice the principles we have taught them. I know that their decision now with have a positive influence not just on their lives, but on their whole family. The gospel has and will change their lives forever.

It also brings me so much joy to see our other recent converts so strong in the gospel. They are teaching lessons in Sunday School and in the primary, actively participating in ward activities and seeing the difference it has in their lives and in their families. They testify to us that their life's have truly changed since the minute we walked into their home.

And of course, as I said, the biggest transformation of hearts is my own. I do not know exactly how to describe it, but I am different. Of this I am certain. I am ever so grateful for my Savior, and the ability that I have to change because of Him. I know that He died for me. I know that He loves me.

For all of you that made it this far, I love you, but as my district leader would say, God loves you more. I know that Jesus Christ knows you, and He knows how to help you. 

Sister Pinkney 

This week I came across a quote by Horace Mann which says “In vain do they talk of happiness who never subdued an impulse in obedience to a principle.”