Sorry this weeks post was a little delayed, I was out of town and away from any internet access. I was super excited to get Zachs letter this week because it is his last letter from the Mexico CCM. I know, crazy. That means that he is leaving for Chile this Monday at 8:25 AM, it is an 8-10 hour flight so pray for his safe arrival and guidance as he becomes a full fledged missionary. Phase one, check! Now just less than 23 short months until we see his awesome smile and hear him singing the Beach Boys to us. Of course, that is not how Zach feels. He communicated that it is going by too fast and he wants it to slow down. I cursed him under my breath with a hex when I read that sentence.
Zach had a super spiritual week from what I can tell from his letter. He has crammed in a lot of studying to prepare for his departure to Chile. I guess our dad got Zach a book before he left called "Serve With Honor". He read a chapter that particularly stood out to him on keeping your eyes single to the glory of God. He likened it unto himself, found that it has helped him to more fully focus on his mission, and to keep both eyes fixed on the glory of God.
He received an extra boost this week with a letter from our Grandma Bradford. He has really appreciated the handwritten messages he has received throughout the week, and this one was just as special coming from such a wonderful lady who has been such an incredible influence in our family. She truly does know exactly what to say and when to say it and he really appreciated that this week.
Language wise, Elder Van Pelt has struggled a little bit with his grammar, but knows that if he just keeps studying and doing what he is supposed to, God will prepare a way for him to communicate with the people of Chile. He had an experience in which he saw an elder at the CCM whom he went to high school with and he didn't really get along with. When these thoughts came to mind he thought of his calling as a missionary, walked up to him and shook his hand. The Elder was shocked to see Zach reach out to him, but Zach felt awesome and knew that the gospel of Jesus Christ can help everyone become more like our Savior.
Elder Van Pelt has started to think about some things after his mission, about what he wants to do with his life. He always planned on going to business school and becoming a millionaire, but he is now wanting to dedicate more of his life to the Lord. I have always personally thought that Zach would be an EXCELLENT seminary teacher. It also sounds a little more like the Zach I know, rather the rich businessman (although I wouldn't mind it if he shared some of his money with his awesome big sister).
Zachs spiritual thought for the week if anyone would care to read, is Alma 43:19. It is about Moroni preparing the Nephites to fight for their land and their freedom. He mentioned that it is very important to prepare ourselves spiritually for whatever might come our way. There are some difficult challenges in life that will hit us unexpectedly, but we can all turn to the Lord. Prepare yourselves for a spiritual battle and to clear the way for the Savior to return to the earth.
Anyways Zach loves you all and misses everyone, but is having a blast doing what he truly has always loved, sharing his love for the only true church of God. I will also have Elder Van Pelts new address posted as soon as I have it available.
Hasta luego!
No comments:
Post a Comment