Upping the Antey with Member Missionaries

 Hola!

Stopped by a lovely family this week who shared their beautiful conversion story — both to the Lord and to each other.  

They expressed that the missionaries in their area haven’t really pushed them to become the member missionaries they know they can be. They told us, “We NEED an assignment and want to be more involved.” We were thrilled to hear that, and we’ll definitely be putting them to work soon :)  

This week, Día de los Muertos was combined with the local farmers market, and I finally got to buy an El Salvador jersey from a little tienda and wear it downtown. There was a beautiful section where you could write a note to someone who has passed on, it was such a touching opportunity to think about Lucas Hirchi during my "Lucas Month." I continue to miss him deeply. I also want to give a special shoutout to his mother, who has so graciously allowed me to take part in remembering him in this way.  

My mission isn’t like most...I’m often asked to reach out to members who feel forgotten and to fellowship those who are lost. This wasn’t always something I felt confident in, but through experiences with companions and trainees, I’ve learned how to better find The One.

Lucas was especially gifted at this. During Lucas Month, I’ve felt his influence helping me recognize those who need to be seen. It’s reminded me of the Savior’s words:

“What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine… and go after that which is lost, until he find it?”

— Luke 15:4

I’m learning that seeing people is one of the holiest parts of this work.

Love you all — choose good, eternal friends. Have a wonderful week!  

Sincerely, Elder Lucas Witte

AYO New Translated Beings Just Dropped

 Had another beautiful week, (aka) it was fairly rough but the trials fire is refining for sure...

I had the chance to reread some talks recently, and the chills I got reading Elder Holland again were so fire. My testimony has grown so much through those still, small voices and confirmations. It's becoming reasonably undeniable, and it's invited me to keep digging, searching for more light and knowledge, and trying to understand things more deeply.

I found this wacky, unfoldable book that folds out like 15 FEET—it had an insanely detailed church and scripture timeline. I saw it in a church building (don’t worry, it’s not officially Church-made, so it’s not like it’s stealing from the Church). Anyway, it talked about Melchizedek in JST Genesis 14… but that’s kind of beside the point.

This week was hard. It felt MAD LONG. I felt pretty alone and had to pray a lot about some college stuff. But yesterday—probably the hardest day—I rolled up on this little statue of Jesus that so wonderfully reminded me of Lucas Hirschi. (And this is my Lucas Month) We would talk about school and the future a lot in our classes my senior year. It was as if he was telling me to "chill." May he rest in peace. I'm glad I’ll get to see him again someday... 

I know Jesus saves and his grace is free, he puts people in the right place (even in your mind) for a reason...

Sincerely, 

Elder Lucas Witte

Da Jesus (RIP and Miss you Lucas!)

W book

Mormonism book WWWWW

Does every one normally tear up like that???

 Wow, what a week—Supa Mega Fire!

We watched General Conference in a few different places: at the church (casting on the TV), at President Pulsipher’s house (gunning!), and with some members. The Spirit was so strong. So many powerful testimonies were shared, every time someone teared up, not gonna lie, I did too. The Spirit really confirmed to me the truth of their callings and the reality of their experiences.

We also had Spanish Zone Conference this week, and we just so happened to read right where I am in my personal study of the Doctrine and Covenants. This verse hit deep:

D&C 117:13

"Therefore, let him contend earnestly for the redemption of the First Presidency of my Church, saith the Lord; and when he falls he shall rise again, for his sacrifice shall be more sacred unto me than his increase, saith the Lord."

I testify that as you continue to sacrifice for the Lord giving everything up that only “profits” temporarily—you will be blessed. I’ve seen it over and over on my mission. I want to keep living a consecrated life after the mission, too.

Oh, and of course, I wanted to mention that it’s my Lucas Month. Sacrificing and remembering him has been emotional and yes, sometimes sad, but also so enriching. I know he’s here, walking every step with me. I have been given so many Soccer Jerseys on my mission and every time I wear one, I think of him. 

Love you all!

Sincerely, 

Elder Lucas Witte

New Couch installed (Lucas H is here)

Me and my new snorlax fr (next week il dropped a pic)

Back to court?? (Nah almost had to but its just for our housing coordinator)