My dear Ward Missionaries. I hope so much that this past week was wonderful for you and you family. I hope that you felt the love of Jesus Christ increase in your heart and homes.

Above is a picture of a tree that over time overcame the strength and hardness of a rock to eventually break through and flourish. It has such a wonderful message for each of us. That is what this life is all about. Planting seeds, it is our decision if we are planting good or bad, God like seeds or evil seeds throughout our lives.

Of course as we focus a little on missionary work, it is those friendships, those moments of acquaintance, the taking of a plate of cookies, helping with a project. Watching another’s kids, so many ways to plant seeds.

You might or might not be around long enough to see the fruit of these plantings. But I’m pretty sure that the day will come when those who eventually accepted the gospel will greet you with untold gratitude. What a glorious reunion that will be!!

“For a man to lay down his all, his character and reputation, his honor, and applause, his good name among men, his houses, his lands, his brothers and sisters, his wife and children, and even his own life also – counting all things but filth and dross for the excellency of the knowledge of Jesus Christ – requires more than mere belief or supposition that he is doing the will of God; but actual knowledge, realizing that, when these sufferings are ended, he will enter into eternal rest, and be a partaker of the glory of God.”

Joseph Smith  |  Lectures on Faith, 68-70

Topics: Knowledge, Sacrifice

We live in exciting times. Expect and pray for miracles. Recently I had the opportunity to give a priesthood blessing. This individual was being told that he was going to have to have his leg amputated. In the blessing the Lord told this person that he would not lose his leg !!!!! This morning I received a text from his wife. I will share some of it with you. I only acted as voice, the Lord blessed and the faith of this good brother and sister along with mine brought about the declarations of the Lord. 

“I wanted to let you know that your blessing given to … has been honored. The doctor reports that he will no longer need to amputate his leg. We are profoundly grateful to Heavenly Father for this miracle…”

Pray for miracles, pray for charity, pray for discernment, pray for wisdom. Most of all pray to develop that true conversion to Jesus Christ.

I’m grateful for each of you and your willingness to try to develop these friendships. Only 30 minutes a week and great are the rewards. Plant those seeds. As you plant in others, the Lord will plant new seeds in you also. God bless each of you. Please let me either personally, by individual text or email or phone call how you are doing. Is there anything I can do to help you. The Lord is your ultimate companion and I testify that as you go about His work, He will be with you.

Love each of you

Steve Larsen

801-380-8307

sglarsen@gmail.com