A former investigator who left for a
trip to Gabon returned this week and explained that he was excited to talk with
us. He had kept his testimony even though it has been 3 months since we saw
him. That got us pretty excited as well. He then relayed to us that his dad told him he
would never have a son who was Mormon, and threw out all the scriptures,
magazines, dvds, and other church related materials. His dad gave him two
options; One - stay in Point Noire and be
baptized and lose all monetary support from his father which would leave him
homeless and without a job as a student; or Two - go out to live in a village
where the Gospel is not yet and get everything he has ever wanted - including a
visa to America and an all-expense paid trip. (I should let you know that his
dad definitely has the money and could have followed through on that promise). He
called us Thursday and explained that he will stay in Pointe Noire! I will keep you updated.
Steven,
from Ghana, his house was broken into and burned down. He lost everything. His
wife was at the hospital, his daughter was at school, and he was at work. He
told the branch (church congregation) yesterday that when he came home he saw
his wife and daughter who were safe and said, "I am ok". It’s difficult as a missionary in Africa
because we all wish we could help people monetarily and physically. But we are
here for spiritual aid. The most we can offer is prayers and spiritual thoughts
(and also service, but not in this sort of problem). It takes a lot of faith
that God will take care of them, and that the Branch members who can help
physically, will do their part. I
learned that this is why everyone needs to lift where they stand.
Fun
story, I took a bucket shower yesterday for the first time! Our power was out
all day and so it was necessary. And actually it’s not that bad. Maybe I’ll
continue to take them when I get home! All is well in Africa and I am enjoying
the work here. I would be lying if I said there aren’t occasionally doubts and
negative feelings, but it is all going well and I will keep going. 5 months
have gone by very fast!
To
answer your question for clarification - So baptisms shouldn’t be in the cow
trough because we actually have a real font at the other church owned building
- so it makes the occasion a little more special.
I’m
happy all is going well for you at home. All those prayers seem to be paying
off. Keep pressing forward because all
is truly well in Zion!
Love,
Elder JohnsonTo view pics of Julius and see what life is like in the Congo - click on the Senior Couples Blog Link on the right side of this page.
