Christmas Rolling In - 12/16/19

 Hello friends and family!

Crazy another week has gone by. This week was so awesome I am loving this transfer already so much. Sister Haji and I have seen so many miracles! It has been both exciting and humbling. There are people who have opened up to us that never opened up with Sister Snelgrove and I. People who are actually opening their door that never have. But it helps me realize that this truly is God's work and it is all done in His timing. 

We had our ward Christmas party for the Mountain Park ward and it was a blast. They did a play with the Grinch finding Jesus and needless to say we have a return appointment with him this week. It was so creative! I seriously just love these wards so so much. There are some incredible people here.

We also had our shift at the giving machines and oh my goodness that was the actual best experience. We had so much fun talking to people and helping them donate. You cant help but feel happy when surrounded by people giving and loving others as Christ would. 

Christmas Conference was a blast for the mission on Tuesday! We ran a 5k in the morning then played sports for a few hours. Although awkward moment I was throwing a football with another Sister missionary and President came over to talk to us (he said he was extremely impressed with my ability to throw a football... thanks Dad!!) and as the other Sister threw it to me it went to the left so I jumped for it and caught it not realizing the President was right there and I totally intercepted on my Mission President... whoops! 

The talk for this week is "Our responsibility to take the gospel to the ends of the Earth" by Elder Goaslind (my mission presidents dad). It is so amazing! Here is one quote that when I read it caught my attention.

"...let me state it clearly and pointedly. Working for the salvation of others is essential for our own salvation."

Reflect on that, working for the salvation of others is ESSENTIAL for our salvation. Recognizing this truth made so many things click for me. It is so true. We cannot receive the blessings of salvation without having a natural and genuine concern for the salvation of others. This comes as we follow the example of our Savior by obtaining His attributes. As we do, we will already be looking outward. We will be following the commandment written all over the scriptures to share our testimonies. (1st Peter 3:15, D&C 18:15-16, D&C 16:6, Mosiah 18:9, Matthew 28:19... and more)

I love you all so much! I know that as you pray for a desire to fulfill this commandment you will be blessed with strength and courage to open your mouth. You will be given the words to say as promised in D&C 100.

 "5 Therefore, verily I say unto you, lift up your voices unto this people; speak the thoughts that I shall put into your hearts, and you shall not be confounded before men;

6 For it shall be given you in the very hour, yea, in the very moment, what ye shall say."

Merry Christmas (almost) !!

Sister Callister

PS be on the lookout for a TON of pictures!!