weekly update 4/23/2012

Mis amados hermanos tu hermanas




The lord has truly showered us with blessings. We are now teaching a new Member referral, named Tina. She has expressed a strong desire to be baptised. Right after the lesson we had some time for street contacting, as we were speaking to people we met a lady named Sophie, then taught her the day after with a member. It was definitely no coincidence that we found her at this time in her life. The week before we spoke to her she had a friend die, and previously she had a few others die, including her partner. I know that this message is what she needs, especially at this time.



We taught Tom a couple times this week. On Monday we taught him and he has expressed not only that he wants to be baptised but that he wants to go on a mission! He is 28 so he will need some permission from the stake president, but the desire is still there! On Thursday we taught him again and He told us that he was going to speak to his father to pick a date for his baptism! Exciting things are happening here in Rossendale Valley.



My companion Elder Jensen is doing really great. He is quite knowledgeable about the gospel. I enjoy discussing different things with him. I have learned a lot from him as a missionary and doctrinally. We are really enjoying the time we have together!



Recently I have been reading in the New Testament. The biggest thing that I have recognized is the nature of Jesus Christ, especially the love that he has for us. He says it quite frequently. This morning I was reading in Chapter 10 of St. John which talks about how he is the good shepherd and will lay down his life for us.



With love,

Elder Ballantyne