February 17, 2020

Joy in Christ


Hello all!

This week we had exchanges with Sister Tatlow and Arevalo in Jacaerí and it was super good! We had fun together and it was nice learning a few more good things from other Sisters.


The ward had an activity Friday night and that was really fun! Sister Mel and I were asked to give the Spiritual Thought and we gave it on David A. Bednars talk in the December Liahona on Jesus Christ- The Source of Enduring Joy. He starts with ´´What is Joy? the Guide to the Scriptures describes joy as “a condition of great happiness [that results] from righteous living.” Interestingly, our gospel perspective helps us to understand that joy is more than a fleeting feeling or emotion; rather, it is a spiritual gift and a state of being and becoming.´´ Then he asks, ´´How is Joy Obtained?´´ Joy comes from exercising faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, worthily receiving and faithfully honoring sacred ordinances and covenants, and striving to become deeply converted to the Savior and His purposes. Fun is the result of “amusement,” “playful [and] often boisterous action or speech,” or pleasurable diversion. A day on the rides at Disneyland is fun. Worthily preparing for and participating in the ordinance of the sacrament is joyful.´´ I am grateful to be learning this through the eyes of a missionary. It has been a long time away from smart phones and internet and worldly music, that when I am in the street and hear a good song, I think to myself, but this is not what has been giving me pure joy these last 14 months. The reason I feel so happy is because of my Savior Jesus Christ and His teachings that bring me pure joy to my soul and knowledge that it can last for eternity.

What things in your life bring you temporary happiness? What blessings give you pure joy for all time and eternity? Give value and time to the things that give you pure, righteous joy.

On Saturday we had a good reading and study session with our investigator Adriana who is loving the Book of Mormon! We read and discussed 1 Nephi 13 and it was super awesome to see her growing in the Book and really feeling the Spirit testify of its veracity. 

I know that the Book of Mormon is a true testimony of Christ and helps us to really know our Creator and what we need to do in this life to reach eternal life. The Restoration is still happening today and it is a wonderful time to help others taste of its joy. Have a great week! 

And hope you had a great Valentines Day!

love, Sister Giles