Sister Mauri Dobbs: It's the end of the world as we know it! But I feel fine!!!

Well, a lot of exciting stuff happened this week!

*We had church yesterday! After being closed for about 3 months, some areas are starting to have meetings in the chapel again! Our ward (congregation) is pretty big here, so they divided it into 3 groups, 9am, 10:30 and 12p.. We attended all 3.

*We found out how to make protein balls this week (it's like peanut butter, honey, oats, etc) and we have made them 3 times already. 3 separate batches. We're addicted. We also made baked potatoes and panko chicken this week, among other things. Truly thriving.

*We had zone conference this week, which was with like half the mission. It was super good. We talked about Facebook and our capacity to reach millions through technology. The Lord's work will continue accelerating and it's quite thrilling to be a part of that. They say this is the new wave of missionary work. We can't go back to knocking doors. It's just so much less effective.

*We went with Joselia and Marcos to the clerk's office and they got their marriage license!! It was a good time. I had to translate everything for them which was fun. They're one step closer to baptism which they've been so waiting for months!

We also had a super awesome mission devotional via Zoom with Elder and Sister Gong and Elder Christansen from the missionary department. It was soooooo good and I definitely cried at some touching things that were said.

One of my favorite parts was when they spoke about D&C 45 which lists signs of the times: earthquakes in divers places, a "scourge" and "sickness" that will cover the land (aka COVID-19) (vs. 31,33). But then it says in verse 32, "but my disciples shall stand in holy places and shall not be moved". We, as missionaries and saints, are a part of that. We are the example to the world, the ensign to the nations. Despite a world filled in commotion, we are standing steadfast, strengthened by our faith in Jesus Christ and the hope He offers for a brighter future.

For my mission friends:

President Christensen said, none of you are waiting for a Visa or to go to your original assignment. Your mission starts NOW. D&C 31:3-4 "Lift up your heart and rejoice, for the hour of your mission is come."

Another special thing I found in my study. In 3 Nephi 9, just 2 chapters before the Savior comes, it talks about the destruction the people endured, the suffering and loss. There were fires, earthquakes, whole cities drowned in the sea, and then complete darkness for 3 whole days and nights. Not even candles or torches could be lit to penetrate the utter blackness. How terrifying must it have been! We live in similar dark times. Times of commotion, confusion, and destruction. We, too, are awaiting the coming of our Lord. But, in this darkness the Lord speaks from the heavens. He says,

"Will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?

"Yea, verily I say unto you, if ye will come unto me ye shall have eternal life. Behold, mine arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me." (Vs 13-14)

I know He is the light of the world. He speaks to us in the darkness and we can learn to hear His voice. I love Him and feel Him lifting me up in the hardest moments.

Love,

Sister Dobbs