Week 30 Nothin but Blue Skies

Queridos irmãos e irmãs,

This week Elder Duarte turned 19, so some celebration was necessary, see the photos! We also met and taught some cool people!

Paulo Sérgio and his brothers are all named Paulo, and his sister is named Paula, which I find hilarious. He was a little tipsy when he first called out to us on the street, not all that uncommon. But when we talked to him later he not only remembered (less common) us but was sober and seems serious about leaving drinking behind. He also loved singing the hymns with us on Sunday.

Hannah, and Francisca (mom) and Lina (aunt). Hannah previously solicited a missionary visit. When looking for her, we met Francisca and Lina, who told us they are inactive members, even pulling out their baptism certificates from 30 years ago. The spirit was so strong talking to them, re-reading the promise of The Book of Mormon.

This week, I gave the spiritual thought at our weekly Thursday night activity. We focused on one of my favorite church videos, "The Music of the Gospel". The message reminds us of not only of following the "dance" of the gospel but also hearing the music, the swelling joy that comes from following the commandments.

"when we add music to the dance steps, the sometimes complicated rhythms of marriage and family life tend to move toward a harmonious balance. Even our most difficult challenges will add rich plaintive tones and moving motifs."

The purposes of God and His commands, the Gift of His Son, are unto redemption and joy. If we know only the steps of discipleship, and not the song of redeeming love, the dance becomes dry and awkward. We find the music when we come to Christ with not just an open heart, but a broken heart.

Elder Pinkney