It's been another busy but wonderful week in Chicago. The work is definitely hastening. At least the pace is either picking up or I am just getting older.
As Pioneer day (July 24), came and went without any fanfare here, I couldn't help but think of the many who have gone before me to pave the way and leave a legacy of faith and devotion. I am humbled and impressed by the pioneers today both here and around the world who because they are humble, have faith and recognize truth are laying the groundwork for future generations in their families.
As I get to know the young missionaries and learn of their story, I am humbled by their faith and humility. On Monday I had two Elders come into the office to get supplies. I always ask them how the work is going and what their teaching pool is like. As we talked, amidst their excitement of having a family of 7 on date for baptism and 7 other progressing investigators, they mentioned that they haven't been able to sleep because it has been so hot and muggy. Last week there were several heat-related deaths here. When I found out they have never had air conditioning in their apartment, I decided to take them to Costco to buy them a window unit. On our drive to and from, I learned more about their circumstances and personal lives. Neither of them has a father who is a member nor who is very involved in their life. Their excitement for the work was so evident as they talked about those they are teaching. Both said they hoped their dads would soften and join the church while they are here serving.
While at Costco I asked them if they had eaten lunch yet. They indicated that due to an emergency transfer they were involved in, they only had $20 to last them the last two weeks of the month. I bought them lunch and while we ate, we had a wonderful discussion with 4 people at the next table. They were Seventh Day Adventists. They noticed our black badges and started asking us questions about the Church. One of them was a sweet little 84 year old lady. She said that she had been through the Chicago temple before it was dedicated. She had also been to SLC and seen Temple Square. Watching these two young Elders ask questions and share a message was inspiring. We didn't realize until we were ready to leave that one of these people just happened to be their pastor. As we left, he and the older lady both thanked us for the conversation and also thanked us for the good we were doing. I have no idea if any of them will ever join the Church, but it is so easy to talk about the gospel and invite others if you are unafraid to strike up a conversation.
The two young men called me the next morning to tell me they had a good night's sleep for the first time in weeks.
On Friday, the president had a training meeting for those who had been out for 3-9 weeks plus their trainers. Sister Taggart had the responsibility to provide lunch for the 75 of them. On the budget she was given she knew we couldn't do Subway, KFC, etc. so she orchestrated a spaghetti feed. It included spaghetti with meatballs and Italian sausage, tossed salad, garlic bread and homemade brownies that she made the night before. Three of us cooked everything at the mission home and then took it to the stake center they were meeting at just a mile away. It was a hit. Numerous missionaries told her it was the best lunch they have had at a meeting.
During lunch I was able to take care of 3 car problems and 4 phone problems plus have conversation with many wonderful young people. Being the 'car czar' and the phone guru gives me many opportunities to talk to missionaries. I live the privilege of rubbing shoulders with this mighty army. They are amazing.
Speaking of cars, SLC told me this week that we will double the fleet of vehicles here by the end of the year. I approved $11,500 in gas receipts for the mission for the month this week. I am supposed to look at each receipt and sign off on them.
I met with the two region managers of Pep Boys this week. I don't recall there being any of their locations out West. They are auto service centers. The church is their oldest and largest account nationally. That is where we get all of the cars serviced unless it is warranty work. As we met, these two men asked me questions about the church and what the missionaries do for over 45 minutes. At one point, one of them said that he has a 19 year old son who should be doing what the young missionaries are doing because it would really be good for him. I told him we could help make that possible if he would like to learn more. He has called me twice since then, so who knows what the possibilities might be.
Have I said how much I love my companion? She is doing an amazing job! You all know how she hates computers but you would be amazed at what she is doing with them. She is learning a ton about technology and will do a great work. We are in the same office 9-10 hours a day but really don't get to spend much time together until we leave the office.
We went on a teaching appointment this week with the sisters serving in our ward. We visited Leta Cabrera who joined the church in 2007 but hasn't been to church for years and is very shallow in gospel knowledge. She also has a tobacco addiction. She has had one leg amputated so she has some mobility challenges. We had a great visit. Before we left we asked her if we could pick her up for church. She is coming to church with us today but she said she could only stay for sacrament meeting because it hurts to sit too long. We hope to be able to make a difference in her life while we are here. More to come.
I have rambled on for too long now and must go get ready for church. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ and testify that the only way to lasting happiness is being living it. I am grateful for my Savior and His redeeming love. I am also very grateful to be part of this great work. Catch the wave; it is exciting. I love and miss each of you.
Elder Taggart
Mom reading her scriptures.
No comments:
Post a Comment