One Year Older and Wiser!?

Dear  Family and Friends,

Tomorrow will mark one year on our mission. It's gone fast and slow.

  We've learned so much and had challenges too. All in all that's the way life works, no growth without resistance.  We are extremely privileged to be in Nauvoo and now Carthage.

We had an amazing day Saturday at Carthage. There were 74 people who came and of those 28 were nonmembers of the Church.  We placed 3 Books of Mormon with families. During one tour, a young boy was glued on every word I said.  After telling about the "First Vision" and explaining that Joseph then knew that God knows each of us by name and has a glorified body and that He and Christ are 2 separate beings, this boy was so excited he couldn't wait to talk to me.  I stepped back as the tour moved towards the jail and he said: "I knew that God had a body. The bible says we are made like Him. This stuff is true."  

After the tour, Elder Long was able to talk to the family and give them a Book of Mormon. The father said that Joseph's story was their story.  They have been looking for the right church to attend but no one was answering their questions. They gave their information so they can hear the missionaries.

During another tour, a family listened respectfully but a 15 year old young man was especially receptive. After the tour, I offered the family a Book of Mormon.  The mother declined saying she just wasn't interested.  The young man said "Well I am! This is true and we need it!"  The mom then said "Well okay! We'll read it." That young man will lead them along.  They were not ready for missionaries but one day they will.

Those are just 2 of the wonderful events of that day.  The Lord is sending families to hear the gospel and we are preparing prayerfully each day to be good missionaries for Him.  With His help, these people will receive guidance and answers.

We want so much for everyone to know that the Savior lives and loves us.  Joseph Smith is the prophet chosen to bring the truth in its fullness back to the earth for all. He is our friend.  It's hard to believe that people believed such lies about him and murdered him for just telling the truth.  Truth is hard for those who are not living the commandments, just as the Book of Mormon says.

Our Beloved Prophet, Joseph Smith, Jr.

We love each of you and are thankful for your prayers and support.

Love,

Sister and Elder Long