Week 43 (Dunkerque)

Poisson d'avril! How did you all like that April Fools prank? What prank? You know, the one where you were expecting an email yesterday...

Anyway, besides getting to go to Bruxelles again today, it's been a good week. Long, but good. We did a lot of talking to people on the streets, but also a good amount of teaching. So a good balance.

The other day, we met a couple different people who weren't really interested, but talked to us a lot anyway. They were just trying to prove us wrong. So we listened, mostly, with some comments thrown in, as they presented their arguments. Then what did we do? We testified. They didn't want to listen, but we stood our ground anyway. And the thing about trying to argue against the truth, is that there isn't a sound argument to make. Claims against truth are either based on ignorance or plain falsehood, so they can't stand inspection for long before they start contradicting themselves. And more importantly, they can't shake someone's knowledge that's been confirmed to them by God.

This week we pretty much taught at least two people a day, which is amazing. Teaching is the best part of missionary work, it's what we're called to do. We are called to invite people to come unto Christ, and there's no better way to do so than to teach the gospel. "The study of … the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of behavior will improve behavior" (Elder Packer, 1986). It's also difficult to talk to strangers on the street sometimes, so a teaching missionary is a happy missionary!

And with Conference coming up this weekend (most likely with more changes, specifically regarding missionaries) it's an exciting time. But don't let the logistical announcements distract you from the spiritual message meant just for you. Of course, pay attention to and get excited about whatever changes are announced, but be sure to keep an ear out for what your Heavenly Father is trying to tell you through His prophets.

À la prochaine!
Elder Wood

Elder Rosales, Elder Wood, and one of their amis

New baby Owen! He is finally healthy and old enough to attend church (he was born preemie).

"Saw some friends in Belgium"

Food photo: Gaufre from Belgium.

More food: "We needed to reheat some pizza, it fit perfectly!" 

One more food photo: "We tried making pizza"

"My pant leg came unhemmed, so I fixed it"