Dear Family,
Transfers are tomorrow (they moved it to Tuesday), but Elder Gemmill and I are both staying here. Actually, the whole district is staying the same, which I am glad about because we all have unfinished business here :)
Little miracles story: Our investigator, Steve Altepeter, went from having to leave church in order to smoke, to quitting smoking cold turkey! It's so great to see how one's faith can be planted, grow, and then move mountains! Right now we're just working to get him more independent with a job, car, etc... Missionary work can sure be interesting sometimes :)
Other than that, we got 2 new investigators this past week, Jacob and Jackie. They haven't grown up in real religious families, but they are very open and receptive. They accepted baptism, and we're excited to continue teaching them.
Also, yesterday we went out tracting and street contacting on our bikes and we got 5 new potentials. To answer your question, Mom, most people are very nice and respectful when they tell us they're not interested, and that doesn't bother me at all. Every once in a while we'll run into someone who is rude, which is a little disheartening, but not a big deal. It's all part of the work.
By the way, there are a lot of changes happening in the mission, which you might be interested in hearing about. I don't if I mentioned the mission conference in which Elder Grow (of the Seventy) came and taught us a couple of months ago. He made some changes which include focusing more on following the Spirit to do the work in whatever way is effective vs. focusing on getting stats like tracting and street contacting. Also he had us focus on setting baptismal goals and planning week by week, instead of month by month. He wants us all to baptize every week! He also changed it so that district leaders don't go on companion exchanges with their district anymore, just with the ZL's, so that everyone can spend more time in their own area. He also changed other things, like what key indicators we use, etc... but I can't think of them all.
But now there are a lot of new changes that are happening. District Leaders now will go on companion exchanges with their district. I'm not sure why they changed it, but I am excited about it. Also, zone conferences and interviews now only will happen every other transfer instead of every transfer. I guess they used to have a day long leadership conference every few months, where all leadership (DL's, ZL's, and AP's) get together and are trained. Now they'll be having a 3 day long leadership conference! We will be taught during the day, then go out and apply it at night. I'm really excited about that! Also, apparently the church is coming out with 8 missionary lessons as a supplement to Preach My Gospel that they'll use to train missionaries and help them become better teachers. They'll start using it in the MTC next year, but we're starting to use it in the field really soon, so that all missionaries in the field will be caught up with it when it comes out next year. This sounds pretty exciting. Also, we now have PMG DVD's that show missionaries talk about and apply principles from PMG in real situations. They use it in the MTC and we also use it in District Meetings each week. Apparently they're coming out with a whole new set!
Changes to me, mean improvements, so I'm really excited about all this. There's probably more changes happening, but this is all that I can think of right now. My excitement for missionary work has really been increasing recently. I've been receiving a lot of impressions on how I can improve, but I'm desperately running out of time to do it all! (I'm coming up on 15 months, which means 9 months left!) There's SO much good to do in this life! Especially living at this time in the history of the world, the opportunities are incredible!! It is so crucial that we stay focused on what's MOST important, what REALLY lasts, and what the Lord would have us do. There's work to be done and there's no time to waste! The Lord needs COMMITTED, DILIGENT, OBEDIENT, SUBMISSIVE, and DETERMINED servants to work in His vineyard near the end of the harvest. My prayer is that we may all rise to fulfill the callings that the Lord has foreordained each and everyone of us to do. I love you all and hope you have an outstanding week!
Love,
Elder Craft
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Monday, July 19, 2010
Faith to quit Smoking
Hi Family,
Life has been great out on the mission! We've had a great week and have been blessed with many teaching opportunities. Yesterday, our investigator Steve Altepeter came to church and we taught him the Stop Smoking Program, which he accepted! It's so exciting to see people progress in the gospel. Missionary work is awesome and the church is definitely true! I love you all and hope you have an outstanding week!
Dear Mom,
Thanks for last week's letter! I got it right after I got done emailing. It's so good to hear from you. As good as it is to hear from Dad, it's just not the same without you :) I love you so much and hope all is well for you back home.
How are the family goals and plans going? Goals and planning is such an important principle for success. I've definitely learned that on my mission.
Hey in the next package, could you send my "Go the distance" sheet music? I got an idea that I need it for. Thanks!
I love you, and I look forward to giving you a big hug next summer :)
Dear Dad,
I hear your having some interesting operations done on you. How's that working out? I'm sure you'll endure it well. You'll be in my prayers.
We've been eating corn on the cob at members' houses lately, and I couldn't help but think of you :) You always had so much fun when eating corn on the cob, and you didn't care what you looked like. I miss your wonderful sense of humor.
Lately I've been working how to better organize my goals and plans. Any ideas? Oh and by the way, if you run into any mission presidents, pick their brains for me, because they've got to be amazing. Thanks!
I love you, and I look forward to beating you at racquetball next summer :)
Love,
Elder Craft
Life has been great out on the mission! We've had a great week and have been blessed with many teaching opportunities. Yesterday, our investigator Steve Altepeter came to church and we taught him the Stop Smoking Program, which he accepted! It's so exciting to see people progress in the gospel. Missionary work is awesome and the church is definitely true! I love you all and hope you have an outstanding week!
Dear Mom,
Thanks for last week's letter! I got it right after I got done emailing. It's so good to hear from you. As good as it is to hear from Dad, it's just not the same without you :) I love you so much and hope all is well for you back home.
How are the family goals and plans going? Goals and planning is such an important principle for success. I've definitely learned that on my mission.
Hey in the next package, could you send my "Go the distance" sheet music? I got an idea that I need it for. Thanks!
I love you, and I look forward to giving you a big hug next summer :)
Dear Dad,
I hear your having some interesting operations done on you. How's that working out? I'm sure you'll endure it well. You'll be in my prayers.
We've been eating corn on the cob at members' houses lately, and I couldn't help but think of you :) You always had so much fun when eating corn on the cob, and you didn't care what you looked like. I miss your wonderful sense of humor.
Lately I've been working how to better organize my goals and plans. Any ideas? Oh and by the way, if you run into any mission presidents, pick their brains for me, because they've got to be amazing. Thanks!
I love you, and I look forward to beating you at racquetball next summer :)
Love,
Elder Craft
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Playing Basketball Miracle
Dear Family,
This past week has been busy! We've been helping this old lady move out of her house, and she has a TON of stuff! She doesn't have very much help other than us, so we've been kind of obligated to spend a lot of time with that, but that's okay. We're trying to do what the Savior would do, and hopefully we'll be blessed for it. We do have 1 solid investigator that we're working with--Steve Altepeter, who has been to church twice and has been taught the first 3 lessons. We're excited for his progress and are praying that he'll be able to be baptized in the next couple of weeks. I love you all and pray that you will continue to receive and recognize the blessings of the Lord! Have a fantastic week!
Dear Dad,
Thank you for your letters as always! Your testimony and insight is always inspiring. I testify that you are doing a great job at being a Father! Just keep up the great work. I hope you have fun with the pony, and are careful when driving the 4-wheelers :) Hey, I had a favor to ask: I was wondering if I could get some general conference talks on CD, so I could listen to them while exercising in the morning? It's no hurry; just maybe next time you guys send a package, if it's not too much trouble. Thank you! I love you tons and wish you an incredible week!
Dear Mom,
Hello my wonderful, amazing, beautiful, incredible Mother! Sorry it's been a little bit since I've been able to write a personalized note. And I can't remember if I ever thanked you for that recent package. So I do want to express how much I REALLY appreciate it! I know that even though I'm on a mission, you continue to make great sacrifices in my behalf, so thank you so much! How is everything going for you? Staying busy with your many responsibilities? How have you been feeling health-wise? I hope and pray that you feel strengthened by the Lord on a daily basis to help you accomplish the many things that you've been called and prepared to do. I love you much more than you know, and have such a profound respect for the phenomenal person that you are! Keep up the great work and have a wonderful week!
MIRACLE Stories:
Last P-day we saw a cool miracle. We were playing basketball at a public gym (all by ourselves), and this guy was peeking through the door watching us. We invited him come play and we became friends. We played for a while, then near the end, we started talking about who we are and what we do. That led us into a nice discussion about religion. At the end we invited him to learn more and he accepted! His name is Steven Richards and we're excited to teach him.
Love,
Elder Craft
This past week has been busy! We've been helping this old lady move out of her house, and she has a TON of stuff! She doesn't have very much help other than us, so we've been kind of obligated to spend a lot of time with that, but that's okay. We're trying to do what the Savior would do, and hopefully we'll be blessed for it. We do have 1 solid investigator that we're working with--Steve Altepeter, who has been to church twice and has been taught the first 3 lessons. We're excited for his progress and are praying that he'll be able to be baptized in the next couple of weeks. I love you all and pray that you will continue to receive and recognize the blessings of the Lord! Have a fantastic week!
Dear Dad,
Thank you for your letters as always! Your testimony and insight is always inspiring. I testify that you are doing a great job at being a Father! Just keep up the great work. I hope you have fun with the pony, and are careful when driving the 4-wheelers :) Hey, I had a favor to ask: I was wondering if I could get some general conference talks on CD, so I could listen to them while exercising in the morning? It's no hurry; just maybe next time you guys send a package, if it's not too much trouble. Thank you! I love you tons and wish you an incredible week!
Dear Mom,
Hello my wonderful, amazing, beautiful, incredible Mother! Sorry it's been a little bit since I've been able to write a personalized note. And I can't remember if I ever thanked you for that recent package. So I do want to express how much I REALLY appreciate it! I know that even though I'm on a mission, you continue to make great sacrifices in my behalf, so thank you so much! How is everything going for you? Staying busy with your many responsibilities? How have you been feeling health-wise? I hope and pray that you feel strengthened by the Lord on a daily basis to help you accomplish the many things that you've been called and prepared to do. I love you much more than you know, and have such a profound respect for the phenomenal person that you are! Keep up the great work and have a wonderful week!
MIRACLE Stories:
Last P-day we saw a cool miracle. We were playing basketball at a public gym (all by ourselves), and this guy was peeking through the door watching us. We invited him come play and we became friends. We played for a while, then near the end, we started talking about who we are and what we do. That led us into a nice discussion about religion. At the end we invited him to learn more and he accepted! His name is Steven Richards and we're excited to teach him.
Love,
Elder Craft
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Happy Birthday Benson!!!!
Dear Family,
MIRACLE Stories:
We saw a cool miracle this past week. We home teach a less-active family, and the mother has expressed a desire to come back to church, but she doesn't want to come until she has quit smoking. She said that she can't find the right kind of cinnamon mouthwash that really helps with quitting. Anyways, we were planning on going to see them Wednesday, so Tuesday we ran to the store to look for the mouthwash, and we found some! It had been a while since we had talked about it last, so when we went over on Wednesday, we weren't sure how to bring it up. But we didn't have to, because randomly she said that she had a favor to ask, and she again asked us to look for some cinnamon mouthwash. We both smiled, then ran out to the car and grabbed it. We brought it in and placed it in front of her and she started to cry. It clearly was an answer to her prayers. It was such a joy to be able to serve like that in the hands of the Lord.
Dear Benson,
Hey dude! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry I didn't get a letter to you in time for your birthday. I feel kind of "out of the loop" with the real world right now. I hope you'll forgive me. But I am sending a letter today, so you've got something coming. I remember my 16th birthday, and it's crazy that it was 4 years ago and now it's your turn. Something they talk a lot about on the mission is the principle of URGENCY. And the longer I live the more I realize how important it is. Although sometimes it seems like time goes by slowly, in the long run, it really does go by FAST, and when it's gone, it's gone forever. So learn at a young age to live for no regrets. There's so much for you to do in the next 3 years, but make sure that you focus on doing the most important things-the things that will really matter for you throughout this life and in the next. This is the time for you to define who you are. The decisions you make now will affect you throughout the eternities, for good or for bad. I'm not trying to creep you out, but I just want to impress upon you the importance of what you do at this time in your life. Beware of the influences that promote "instant gratification." Be disciplined. Deny yourself of ALL ungodliness, and do the things that bring LASTING happiness. But also remember to have a sense of humor and learn to love life. If you live it right, this can be the best time of your life thus far. Remember that if you want something bad enough, there is nothing you can't accomplish. I love you and know that you'll do awesome and be a great success in life. Remember to drive on the right side of the road. Eat green vegetables. Treat Mom like you plan on treating your wife. Write in your journal everyday. Read a lot (of the best books, especially the Book of Mormon). "Do a good turn daily." Don't procrastinate homework or Duty to God. Don't get too tall. Admire the right kind of girls. Practice your violin real hard. Write me once a month at least. Make your prayers meaningful. Watch Dad closely, and follow his example. Have one of your top goals to be the best big brother in the world. Be super humble. And be perfectly obedient! I love you man! Have a champion week!
Dear Jacob,
I miss you too buddy! I love you so much Jacob and I'm so excited to come home and play with you again! Keep being a good boy. Remember to share your toys, read books a lot, and take good care of the animals. You're such a cool guy! See you later. Love, Spencer
MIRACLE Stories:
We saw a cool miracle this past week. We home teach a less-active family, and the mother has expressed a desire to come back to church, but she doesn't want to come until she has quit smoking. She said that she can't find the right kind of cinnamon mouthwash that really helps with quitting. Anyways, we were planning on going to see them Wednesday, so Tuesday we ran to the store to look for the mouthwash, and we found some! It had been a while since we had talked about it last, so when we went over on Wednesday, we weren't sure how to bring it up. But we didn't have to, because randomly she said that she had a favor to ask, and she again asked us to look for some cinnamon mouthwash. We both smiled, then ran out to the car and grabbed it. We brought it in and placed it in front of her and she started to cry. It clearly was an answer to her prayers. It was such a joy to be able to serve like that in the hands of the Lord.
Dear Benson,
Hey dude! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry I didn't get a letter to you in time for your birthday. I feel kind of "out of the loop" with the real world right now. I hope you'll forgive me. But I am sending a letter today, so you've got something coming. I remember my 16th birthday, and it's crazy that it was 4 years ago and now it's your turn. Something they talk a lot about on the mission is the principle of URGENCY. And the longer I live the more I realize how important it is. Although sometimes it seems like time goes by slowly, in the long run, it really does go by FAST, and when it's gone, it's gone forever. So learn at a young age to live for no regrets. There's so much for you to do in the next 3 years, but make sure that you focus on doing the most important things-the things that will really matter for you throughout this life and in the next. This is the time for you to define who you are. The decisions you make now will affect you throughout the eternities, for good or for bad. I'm not trying to creep you out, but I just want to impress upon you the importance of what you do at this time in your life. Beware of the influences that promote "instant gratification." Be disciplined. Deny yourself of ALL ungodliness, and do the things that bring LASTING happiness. But also remember to have a sense of humor and learn to love life. If you live it right, this can be the best time of your life thus far. Remember that if you want something bad enough, there is nothing you can't accomplish. I love you and know that you'll do awesome and be a great success in life. Remember to drive on the right side of the road. Eat green vegetables. Treat Mom like you plan on treating your wife. Write in your journal everyday. Read a lot (of the best books, especially the Book of Mormon). "Do a good turn daily." Don't procrastinate homework or Duty to God. Don't get too tall. Admire the right kind of girls. Practice your violin real hard. Write me once a month at least. Make your prayers meaningful. Watch Dad closely, and follow his example. Have one of your top goals to be the best big brother in the world. Be super humble. And be perfectly obedient! I love you man! Have a champion week!
Dear Jacob,
I miss you too buddy! I love you so much Jacob and I'm so excited to come home and play with you again! Keep being a good boy. Remember to share your toys, read books a lot, and take good care of the animals. You're such a cool guy! See you later. Love, Spencer
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Howdy Ya'll
Dear Mamma, Pappa, and the rest of ya,
How're ya'll doin' today? Hopefully things are just dandy for all ya'll back on the farm! As fer me out in the plains, the fields are yellow already to harvest, so folks here are pretty busy! But moor spiritually speakin', we had zone conference yestaday, which was just swell. We had to worsh the car Saturday night to prepare fer it, but then Sunday we hit a dumb pigeon while drivin' on the highway (sorry Pres. Monson!). It was kinda funny, but didn't mess up the car too terribly. When we went past the same there spot on the road, the poor thing wudn't there, so someone must go around to poosh that kind of thing off into the crick. It's kind-hearted souls like that that make here Kansas a livin' beauty! Keep bein' the great folks that you are, and I look forward to seein' you next harvest!
With love,
Elder Craft
MIRACLE Stories:
Yesterday after zone conference, we did a short blitz in Scott City (a small town that's been tracted a lot). We picked an area that hasn't been worked in a couple of weeks, and the very first door we knocked on, a lady was interested but busy, so we set up an appointment for the next day! It was pretty cool, but that wasn't all. A little while later we tracted into a lady who let us in, and we got to teach her the Restoration right there on the spot! She's going on a 2 week trip, but is interested in learning more when she gets back. It's amazing how miracles come and people are a whole lot nicer and more receptive when we have the Spirit. That's why it's so important that we have the same kind of spiritual experiences like we have in zone conference each and every morning with personal and companion study. When we have the Spirit, see miracles, and teach the gospel, that's when missionary work is the most rewarding work on the earth!
I love you and promise that I'm not turning into a red-neck hillbillie! :)
How're ya'll doin' today? Hopefully things are just dandy for all ya'll back on the farm! As fer me out in the plains, the fields are yellow already to harvest, so folks here are pretty busy! But moor spiritually speakin', we had zone conference yestaday, which was just swell. We had to worsh the car Saturday night to prepare fer it, but then Sunday we hit a dumb pigeon while drivin' on the highway (sorry Pres. Monson!). It was kinda funny, but didn't mess up the car too terribly. When we went past the same there spot on the road, the poor thing wudn't there, so someone must go around to poosh that kind of thing off into the crick. It's kind-hearted souls like that that make here Kansas a livin' beauty! Keep bein' the great folks that you are, and I look forward to seein' you next harvest!
With love,
Elder Craft
MIRACLE Stories:
Yesterday after zone conference, we did a short blitz in Scott City (a small town that's been tracted a lot). We picked an area that hasn't been worked in a couple of weeks, and the very first door we knocked on, a lady was interested but busy, so we set up an appointment for the next day! It was pretty cool, but that wasn't all. A little while later we tracted into a lady who let us in, and we got to teach her the Restoration right there on the spot! She's going on a 2 week trip, but is interested in learning more when she gets back. It's amazing how miracles come and people are a whole lot nicer and more receptive when we have the Spirit. That's why it's so important that we have the same kind of spiritual experiences like we have in zone conference each and every morning with personal and companion study. When we have the Spirit, see miracles, and teach the gospel, that's when missionary work is the most rewarding work on the earth!
I love you and promise that I'm not turning into a red-neck hillbillie! :)
Monday, June 21, 2010
Don't miss the movies
Dear Family,
I've done a ton of driving this past week (transfers and trips to towns around our area), but it's been a good week anyway. I'm glad to hear that Dad and Benson survived the escaping 4-wheelers! I'm sure you're all plenty busy with all the work that needs to be done on the farm.
The more I'm away from all the wordly entertainment that I was exposed to before before, the more I realize how I really don't need all that stuff. It will be nice to sit down to a good movie every once in a while, but not as much as most people do. There's so much more to do that is of such greater importance, and is much more fulfilling. There's so much to learn, so much service to do, and so many good causes to pursue. I bet you all enjoy the added peace and quiet that comes from living on a farm. Well, I guess peace from the world, but I can't imagine with all those animals, it being too quiet!
Anyways, I love you all more than I can express. I pray for your happiness and well-being. Keep being the wonderful, faithful people that you are and I know that the Lord will coninue to bless you. Have a week worth remembering!
Love,
Elder Craft
I've done a ton of driving this past week (transfers and trips to towns around our area), but it's been a good week anyway. I'm glad to hear that Dad and Benson survived the escaping 4-wheelers! I'm sure you're all plenty busy with all the work that needs to be done on the farm.
The more I'm away from all the wordly entertainment that I was exposed to before before, the more I realize how I really don't need all that stuff. It will be nice to sit down to a good movie every once in a while, but not as much as most people do. There's so much more to do that is of such greater importance, and is much more fulfilling. There's so much to learn, so much service to do, and so many good causes to pursue. I bet you all enjoy the added peace and quiet that comes from living on a farm. Well, I guess peace from the world, but I can't imagine with all those animals, it being too quiet!
Anyways, I love you all more than I can express. I pray for your happiness and well-being. Keep being the wonderful, faithful people that you are and I know that the Lord will coninue to bless you. Have a week worth remembering!
Love,
Elder Craft
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Jehovah Witness Encounter
Dear Family,
The farther I get on my mission, the more I realize: there's so much work to do, and so little time to do it! However, I really love being a missionary, and I'm enjoying my current area and companion. Recently there's been a change in the mission, so that there's less of an emphasis on stats and more of a emphasis of results and following the Spirit, which is pretty cool. I'm so grateful for the chance to experience revelation in behalf of others because of my calling a missionary.
By the way, transfers are tomorrow, and guess what? .......... I'm staying here!!! I'm staying with Elder Gemmill too, which is totally fine with me.
Dear Mom,
Thank you a head of time for the upcoming letter and package! I really appreciate those sacrifices you make in my behalf. As for other package items, an extra bike tube would be nice. It's kind of hard to find the kind I need out here in Kansas. I use a 29" tube. It's no rush, but if you happen to be around a bike shop, it be nice to have an extra one. Also, if you could get a thick one with slime, that'd be awesome! Other than that, I can't think of anything. I'm doing great and really appreciate all that you do for me!
Interesting story: yesterday evening we tracted into a couple who were really friendly and invited us in. They said they really admired what we were doing and had talked to missionaries before. They were from South Africa and had cool accents. The guy jumped right into a discussion of the Bible. He had me pull out mine and made all his points right out of my Bible, which was cool. He knew A TON of scriptures, which was also very impressive. Elder Gemmill asked them near the beginning what church they went to and the guy said he'd answer that later and just kept going with his discussion. After a little bit, he showed us some scriptures talking about a chosen 144,000, which made me guess they were Jehovah's Witnesses. Later that was confirmed. But anyways, we talked for about an hour and a half, and I enjoyed it very much. It was the first deep discussion I've had with Jehovah's Witnesses, so it was very interesting. I gained more respect and admiration for them and their beliefs, and we were able to find many things that we agreed on, but there were some things that I had trouble with. They were all about using the Bible, and the scriptures they used were good, but some of their conclusions seemed to go against other Bible teachings. Some of the issues were: God's image, how many can make it to heaven, pre-existence, the Holy Ghost, military, the eternal nature of the soul, and others. It did inspire me to want to know the Bible better, which is very important, but also, I definitely gained a greater appreciation for my testimony of the restored gospel and the other scriptures we have! It's so wonderful to have the truth, and to have it in it's fullness. Joseph Smith did the searching for the truth, so we don't have to. Now it's up to us to learn it and live it! It's such a blessing to have prophets on the earth today, who represent the Lord. I absolutely know, without a doubt in my mind, that this church is true! Thank you for all of your testimonies and examples! Each of you has made a great impact in my life, for which, I'll be forever grateful. I love you all! Have a great week!
Love,
Elder Craft
The farther I get on my mission, the more I realize: there's so much work to do, and so little time to do it! However, I really love being a missionary, and I'm enjoying my current area and companion. Recently there's been a change in the mission, so that there's less of an emphasis on stats and more of a emphasis of results and following the Spirit, which is pretty cool. I'm so grateful for the chance to experience revelation in behalf of others because of my calling a missionary.
By the way, transfers are tomorrow, and guess what? .......... I'm staying here!!! I'm staying with Elder Gemmill too, which is totally fine with me.
Dear Mom,
Thank you a head of time for the upcoming letter and package! I really appreciate those sacrifices you make in my behalf. As for other package items, an extra bike tube would be nice. It's kind of hard to find the kind I need out here in Kansas. I use a 29" tube. It's no rush, but if you happen to be around a bike shop, it be nice to have an extra one. Also, if you could get a thick one with slime, that'd be awesome! Other than that, I can't think of anything. I'm doing great and really appreciate all that you do for me!
Interesting story: yesterday evening we tracted into a couple who were really friendly and invited us in. They said they really admired what we were doing and had talked to missionaries before. They were from South Africa and had cool accents. The guy jumped right into a discussion of the Bible. He had me pull out mine and made all his points right out of my Bible, which was cool. He knew A TON of scriptures, which was also very impressive. Elder Gemmill asked them near the beginning what church they went to and the guy said he'd answer that later and just kept going with his discussion. After a little bit, he showed us some scriptures talking about a chosen 144,000, which made me guess they were Jehovah's Witnesses. Later that was confirmed. But anyways, we talked for about an hour and a half, and I enjoyed it very much. It was the first deep discussion I've had with Jehovah's Witnesses, so it was very interesting. I gained more respect and admiration for them and their beliefs, and we were able to find many things that we agreed on, but there were some things that I had trouble with. They were all about using the Bible, and the scriptures they used were good, but some of their conclusions seemed to go against other Bible teachings. Some of the issues were: God's image, how many can make it to heaven, pre-existence, the Holy Ghost, military, the eternal nature of the soul, and others. It did inspire me to want to know the Bible better, which is very important, but also, I definitely gained a greater appreciation for my testimony of the restored gospel and the other scriptures we have! It's so wonderful to have the truth, and to have it in it's fullness. Joseph Smith did the searching for the truth, so we don't have to. Now it's up to us to learn it and live it! It's such a blessing to have prophets on the earth today, who represent the Lord. I absolutely know, without a doubt in my mind, that this church is true! Thank you for all of your testimonies and examples! Each of you has made a great impact in my life, for which, I'll be forever grateful. I love you all! Have a great week!
Love,
Elder Craft
Monday, June 7, 2010
I went to the Temple this week
Dear Family,
How's it going back in Utah? I hope all of you are doing okay. As for me, I had a great week! Since I hit my year mark, my group got to go to the temple this past week. It took about 2 days out of the week, but was totally worth it! It was a long drive down to Garden City then up through Pueblo, Springs, and then on to Denver. I got to do a couple new things at the temple. I got to perform baptisms and confirmations and witness both of them--somethings I haven't done before. Then we concluded with a session. It was a remarkable experience! We stayed at President's house Thursday night after the temple (after a nice steak dinner in the cafeteria), and we got to talk to President and Sister Pfile a lot. It was very laid back, but also very spiritual. I just loved being in their company. They're truly wonderful people. Going to the temple is one thing that I really miss being out here on a mission. But I'm doing what the Lord wants me to do. Then when I get back, I can go as much as I want. Anyways, I guess I'd just like to encourage all of you to make the most of the opportunity you have to attend the temple. There is no place on earth that compares to it!
I love you all and testify that the church is true!
Have an amazing week!
--Elder Craft
How's it going back in Utah? I hope all of you are doing okay. As for me, I had a great week! Since I hit my year mark, my group got to go to the temple this past week. It took about 2 days out of the week, but was totally worth it! It was a long drive down to Garden City then up through Pueblo, Springs, and then on to Denver. I got to do a couple new things at the temple. I got to perform baptisms and confirmations and witness both of them--somethings I haven't done before. Then we concluded with a session. It was a remarkable experience! We stayed at President's house Thursday night after the temple (after a nice steak dinner in the cafeteria), and we got to talk to President and Sister Pfile a lot. It was very laid back, but also very spiritual. I just loved being in their company. They're truly wonderful people. Going to the temple is one thing that I really miss being out here on a mission. But I'm doing what the Lord wants me to do. Then when I get back, I can go as much as I want. Anyways, I guess I'd just like to encourage all of you to make the most of the opportunity you have to attend the temple. There is no place on earth that compares to it!
I love you all and testify that the church is true!
Have an amazing week!
--Elder Craft
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
A really important message
Dear Family,
I love you all tons!!!!
Dear Mom,
Sorry about the PMG thing. I'm really glad you didn't pay $300 for it! You're right, I'd rather not do it illegally :)
So Benson uses the pullup bar? Because I could just buy one here for $20. I got that other one for about $40. And it'll probably save on shipping. So if you haven't sent it already, don't worry about it; but if you have, then thank you anyways! I'm sorry to hear about your health challenges :( I definitely will be praying for you! Just yesterday though we were teaching a young man, Jaylyn, about the Resurrection and it just hit me how awesome it is that no matter what we suffer in this life, we'll all be blessed with a perfect glorified body in the next life. The gospel is truly wonderful! I will be forever in your debt for what you have done for me by teaching me the gospel and showing me how to live to be worthy of all the blessings that are available to us. I love you much, much more that you know! Have a great week!
The work here in Colby is going well. Here's a miracle that I told President about:
We had an incredible miracle this past week! After 6 hours of tracting on Saturday, we tracted into a guy named Jaylyn. We was very friendly and invited us in. We had a very short (15-20 min) and powerful visit, and when it came time to invite him to be baptized, he enthusiastically said that he would! We were so excited. Then yesterday we went back for a return appointment and had another great lesson. We taught the plan of salvation, and talked about the Book of Mormon, and he was saying things like, "This is a really important message. More people need to know about this." Also, we talked briefly about the temple and he really wants to go and do baptisms for his ancestors. At the end of the plan of salvation, we asked him what his purpose in life was and he said, "To get to the Celestial Kingdom!" He believes the church is true. He read and prayed for us. He wants to come to church, even though it's 30 minutes away. And he's excited to be baptized; the only problem is that he is having trouble getting work off on Sundays. So that's the roadblock that will test our faith, but we're going to pray fervently and do everything we can to see a miracle take place. Jaylyn is an awesome guy and has truly been prepared by the Lord. I'm so grateful for the chance I have to be a part of this living miracle.
Dear Dad,
Thank you so much for your faithful example and support. You probably noticed I had to use the debit card a few times recently. I hope that was okay. My regular MSF card was having a little bit of trouble, but should be good now.
I'm glad to hear that you're having fun on the farm :)
Congratulations on the new calling. How's it going? And how's work going? I'm guessing it can't be too bad if you bought a pony and also have a little driver to take you around :)
Even though I'm young I still have had the feelings of time going too fast. It's crazy to think that I'm coming up on my 13 month mark!
Also, just a random thought: I hope that even though I'm away from home on a mission, you still feel comfortable correcting me in any way that you feel is needed. No matter how far away I get or how independent I become, I will always look to you as my father, and I will honor your authority and counsel as such. So please, feel free to be completely open with me if you ever think there's anything that I could improve on, in any way. I'm always in need of and grateful for advice. One of the greatest turning points for Pres. Hinckley was because of a correction by his father while he was on his mission. I surely do not see myself as serving a perfect mission, which is to be expected, so I am anxious for any critiques you are impressed to give me. I believe that you are still entitled to revelation on how to guide me. That's not at all to say that you haven't been doing that, because you have given me an abundance of incredible counsel, so thank you! But just it sometimes seems that you're too nice and too complimentary, moreso than I deserve. I thank you anyways. I wish you well in everything that you're engaged in. I love you so much more than I can express! Have a champion week!
See you in a short, wonderful year!
Love,
Elder Craft
I love you all tons!!!!
Dear Mom,
Sorry about the PMG thing. I'm really glad you didn't pay $300 for it! You're right, I'd rather not do it illegally :)
So Benson uses the pullup bar? Because I could just buy one here for $20. I got that other one for about $40. And it'll probably save on shipping. So if you haven't sent it already, don't worry about it; but if you have, then thank you anyways! I'm sorry to hear about your health challenges :( I definitely will be praying for you! Just yesterday though we were teaching a young man, Jaylyn, about the Resurrection and it just hit me how awesome it is that no matter what we suffer in this life, we'll all be blessed with a perfect glorified body in the next life. The gospel is truly wonderful! I will be forever in your debt for what you have done for me by teaching me the gospel and showing me how to live to be worthy of all the blessings that are available to us. I love you much, much more that you know! Have a great week!
The work here in Colby is going well. Here's a miracle that I told President about:
We had an incredible miracle this past week! After 6 hours of tracting on Saturday, we tracted into a guy named Jaylyn. We was very friendly and invited us in. We had a very short (15-20 min) and powerful visit, and when it came time to invite him to be baptized, he enthusiastically said that he would! We were so excited. Then yesterday we went back for a return appointment and had another great lesson. We taught the plan of salvation, and talked about the Book of Mormon, and he was saying things like, "This is a really important message. More people need to know about this." Also, we talked briefly about the temple and he really wants to go and do baptisms for his ancestors. At the end of the plan of salvation, we asked him what his purpose in life was and he said, "To get to the Celestial Kingdom!" He believes the church is true. He read and prayed for us. He wants to come to church, even though it's 30 minutes away. And he's excited to be baptized; the only problem is that he is having trouble getting work off on Sundays. So that's the roadblock that will test our faith, but we're going to pray fervently and do everything we can to see a miracle take place. Jaylyn is an awesome guy and has truly been prepared by the Lord. I'm so grateful for the chance I have to be a part of this living miracle.
Dear Dad,
Thank you so much for your faithful example and support. You probably noticed I had to use the debit card a few times recently. I hope that was okay. My regular MSF card was having a little bit of trouble, but should be good now.
I'm glad to hear that you're having fun on the farm :)
Congratulations on the new calling. How's it going? And how's work going? I'm guessing it can't be too bad if you bought a pony and also have a little driver to take you around :)
Even though I'm young I still have had the feelings of time going too fast. It's crazy to think that I'm coming up on my 13 month mark!
Also, just a random thought: I hope that even though I'm away from home on a mission, you still feel comfortable correcting me in any way that you feel is needed. No matter how far away I get or how independent I become, I will always look to you as my father, and I will honor your authority and counsel as such. So please, feel free to be completely open with me if you ever think there's anything that I could improve on, in any way. I'm always in need of and grateful for advice. One of the greatest turning points for Pres. Hinckley was because of a correction by his father while he was on his mission. I surely do not see myself as serving a perfect mission, which is to be expected, so I am anxious for any critiques you are impressed to give me. I believe that you are still entitled to revelation on how to guide me. That's not at all to say that you haven't been doing that, because you have given me an abundance of incredible counsel, so thank you! But just it sometimes seems that you're too nice and too complimentary, moreso than I deserve. I thank you anyways. I wish you well in everything that you're engaged in. I love you so much more than I can express! Have a champion week!
See you in a short, wonderful year!
Love,
Elder Craft
Monday, May 24, 2010
A Star Thrower
Dear Family,
It sounds like the Craft family is going to be about 10 times as big when I get back. My childhood Christmas list is finally be answered--just not exactly at the time I had hoped. Good luck training the pony. :)
Elder Gemmill highly recommended a movie that we watch: Encino Man. Apparently it's the movie he would choose if he was stranded on an island and could only watch one movie. You should look it up. It's a comedy with "Rudy" in it.
I have a question: How easy would it be to send my pullup bar in a package? It's not a big deal; I was just curious if it would be easy.
Here's a little story that I found in our apartment. It's a good spiritual thought for the week:
The Star Thrower
by Loren Eiseley
Once upon a time, there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing.
He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work.
One day, as he was walking along the shore, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled at the thought of someone who would dance to the day, and so, he walked faster to catch up.
As he got closer, he noticed that the figure was that of a young man, and that what he was doing was not dancing at all. The young man was reaching down to the shore, picking up small objects, and throwing them into the ocean.
He came closer still and called out "Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?"
The young man paused, looked up, and replied "Throwing starfish into the ocean."
"I must ask, then, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?" asked the somewhat startled wise man.
To this, the young man replied, "The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them in, they'll die."
Upon hearing this, the wise man commented,"But, young man, do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach and there are starfish all along every mile? You can't possibly make a difference!"
At this, the young man bent down, picked up yet another starfish, and threw it into the ocean. As it met the water, he said, "It made a difference for that one."
It is my testimony that every small act of service is significant in God's eyes, and we will be blessed for all of it. I love you all so very much, and pray for your happiness, success, and well-being. Have an awesome week!
Love,
Elder Craft
It sounds like the Craft family is going to be about 10 times as big when I get back. My childhood Christmas list is finally be answered--just not exactly at the time I had hoped. Good luck training the pony. :)
Elder Gemmill highly recommended a movie that we watch: Encino Man. Apparently it's the movie he would choose if he was stranded on an island and could only watch one movie. You should look it up. It's a comedy with "Rudy" in it.
I have a question: How easy would it be to send my pullup bar in a package? It's not a big deal; I was just curious if it would be easy.
Here's a little story that I found in our apartment. It's a good spiritual thought for the week:
The Star Thrower
by Loren Eiseley
Once upon a time, there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing.
He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work.
One day, as he was walking along the shore, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled at the thought of someone who would dance to the day, and so, he walked faster to catch up.
As he got closer, he noticed that the figure was that of a young man, and that what he was doing was not dancing at all. The young man was reaching down to the shore, picking up small objects, and throwing them into the ocean.
He came closer still and called out "Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?"
The young man paused, looked up, and replied "Throwing starfish into the ocean."
"I must ask, then, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?" asked the somewhat startled wise man.
To this, the young man replied, "The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them in, they'll die."
Upon hearing this, the wise man commented,"But, young man, do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach and there are starfish all along every mile? You can't possibly make a difference!"
At this, the young man bent down, picked up yet another starfish, and threw it into the ocean. As it met the water, he said, "It made a difference for that one."
It is my testimony that every small act of service is significant in God's eyes, and we will be blessed for all of it. I love you all so very much, and pray for your happiness, success, and well-being. Have an awesome week!
Love,
Elder Craft
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