The Luxury of Learning

One of the very best things about our mission has been the opportunity to study and learn.  With our lives dedicated to a single purpose we have been able to carve out significant time for learning. 

                Our Mission leadership has challenged us to read the Book of Mormon. Each time they gave us a different focus.  Once, we read it and marked all the references to Jesus Christ (did you know He is referred to by more than 100 different titles?!).   Next, we were asked to read the Book of Mormon marking all the references to faith and the Holy Ghost.  We are now reading it marking all the references to repentance, baptism and love.  Each time we were looking at this precious book of scripture through a different lens gaining new insights.

                 In the MTC we learned to “scripture block” as we read.  This method of study has been informative.  It has focused our thoughts and broadened our understanding. 

                Elder Russel M. Nelson challenged the Young Single Adults to read and mark all the references to Jesus Christ in the topical guide. (did you know there are 17 ½ pages and 55 topics related to Jesus Christ?!).  We bought a brand-new set of the Standard Works for this study and have begun.  It has been a humbling experience. 

             

   It has been a great blessing to teach Institute.  We have been teaching the Cornerstone courses.  

These courses study gospel doctrines and concepts using all the standard works and the words of the prophets.  Studying this way has deepened our learning and understanding, building on years of studying the scriptures in a sequential, linear manner.  

     

      Then there are the temporal learning opportunities.  We spent months learning Dutch (an effort that was less successful than we had hoped but still helpful.  We can read some signs, some packaging at the grocery store, the important information in the ward newsletter, and understand a little occasionally!).  If pressed we can even bless the food and say a simple prayer : ).

Our temporal learning has largely been learning to cook for large groups (enough said :), and last but not least, learning to play the ukulele!  Sister Lucero left me her ukulele last transfer so I have been learning to play it.  Just wait kids….Grandma has a new trick to share with you when she gets home!!

                The time for study and learning that a mission provides has been a such a blessing.  Our knowledge, understanding and testimonies have grown and deepened.  We are grateful for our Savior, Jesus Christ and the gospel plan of which He is the central figure.  We pray that as a result of our study, learning and teaching, those we serve have felt their testimonies grow and strengthen.  That’s why we came.