Sister Walker-- Serving Wherever the Oklahoma Wind Takes Her: Week 81

Hey Y'all

See ya soon IdaHOME!!!

I don't think it has hit me yet that I've been on a mission for 18 months. It's even more obscure to say, but I am more than thrilled to have spent every second of those months with the people of Oklahoma. I have grown to love this place with all my heart, and it hurts to leave behind what you have loved for so long. But I know it's never a good bye, always a see you later!

When people ask me what I look forward to each morning I wake up, I always say, "To see the miraculous change in people as they come closer to their Savior." I can't even describe what it does to my heart to see those I love sacrifice everything for the Gospel. Even the smallest things. That is true conversion, and the Spirit manifests the truthfulness of this Gospel each time my companion and I witness this.

It amazes me that a book, The Book of Mormon, just by reading its pages and seeking for its truth, can soften and transform a heart. The simplest acts of the Gospel truly changes lives.

Not only have I seen people like Stephanie give up old habits so she can one day be sealed to her family in the temple, I have seen a family witness the blessings of the Priesthood and gospel in their home for the first time. When the gospel is true, parent's hearts are softened, and they let their children be baptized and make those sacred promises with their Heavenly Father.

I know this gospel is true because I have been changed because of it. Coming from a fearful mindset of messing up, and not being all my Savior and Heavenly Father wants me to be, I have come to recognize the enabling power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ in my life. It has been a transforming event. I have no doubt that I have a Savior who loves me, and because of his infinite love he sacrificed his life for me, and all of you. I know as Elder Holland said, "No one can fall lower than the light of Christ shines."

I know the Book of Mormon is true. It's not just a book we are told to read, it's a life changing record of ancient prophets and individuals facing trials we may face every day. Experiences on how they came closer to their Savior. They fell many times and were able to get back up again. We have examples like Nephi who we all want to be as strong as. But then there's Alma, who persecuted the church, and then had a mighty change of heart, and became a missionary to lead many to Jesus Christ. Moroni did all he could to preserve the record and truth of the Gospel despite the crazy world around him. I don't know about you, but I can apply those things to today. But ultimately the Book of Mormon is another Testament of Jesus Christ, another divine gift God has given us as a guide in these last days.

I know Joseph Smith is a prophet called of God. He fulfilled his mission on Earth with all his heart, might, mind and strength, so that we can have the joy of the Gospel in our lives. He is just one of those I will thank in the next life for his enduring sacrifice.

I know we have a prophet today, President Russel M. Nelson who is always on the Lord's errand to lead us in these last days. I have so much confidence that he will never lead us down the wrong path. This new guidance given to us is from the Lord himself.

I am so excited to continue on this path of discipleship, continuously changing and seeking the Lord's will. I'm still reminded of this every day, but know His will is the way, and the path to our conversion. Ultimately returning back to him and becoming as he is.

I have loved every second of this journey and I'm so excited and anxious for the adventure ahead.

Oh! And for your final challenge, I encourage you to read your Patriarchal Blessing, and seek to know the path God wants you to be on, and then pray to know:) Ultimately, seek to know where God wants you to be today.

I love you all!! Thank you for your support and prayers, the last year and a half, and for the people here. They each were needed and so much appreciated. Have a great week and I'll see y'all soon!

Love, Sister Walker