More Baptisms and Fear of the Future, March 23, 2015

Hey Mamma,

Haha sorry I didn't mean to freak you out. But yes, I  would say that you are right in that I feel like I am facing more temptation and doubt the closer I get to the end of the mission. Two companions ago, my comp felt like he was going through the same thing. There is so much anxiety and stress that comes with knowing that these two years are almost over! The unknown of my future can be frightening. 

But I have also come to realize that it all comes back to choice. What kind of life do I want to live after the mission? Which path do I want to take? I had to make this same decision before my mission, and now I need to recommit myself to serving the Lord. I've realized that I can't continue forward in happiness without God's help. Cameron sent me a quote that has really helped me. It says, "We never apologize to anyone for depending upon our Creator. We can laugh at those who think spirituality is the way of weakness. Paradoxically, it is the way of strength. We never apologize for God". 

So, although I may not know what the future holds for me, I am committed to relying on the Savior for strength. It worked for me before the mission and during the mission, so I know that it will work for me after the mission. The world may mock my dependence upon the Creator, but I have found great peace in my life from studying scriptures, attending church, and prayer. 

But anywho, this past week was amazing. We had the baptisms of Joseph, Valeria, and Juan just two days ago. It was awesome. This family is so joyful. I love being in their home and being a part of their family. They were so excited on their day of baptism and they carry that excitement with them through the entire week. Also on Sunday Johnny and Anthony (who were baptized last week) received the Aaronic Priesthood! Woo Hoo! It was such a great Sunday. 

This weekend was especially neat because we had two "Mini-missionaries" with us from the Higley Stake. Brother Fabiano and Brother Mulleneaux are both still in high school, but they spent the weekend with us to see what a mission is really like. These guys were awesome! Brother Fabiano came with me to a lesson on Saturday with our investigators Bridgette, Jeremiah, and Jessica and he did an awesome job. He is going to be a stud missionary. And Brother Mulleneaux is a little more socially-awkward, but we had an awesome time together talking to drunk people, Spanish people, and grumpy old men. It was a great weekend!

I especially enjoyed the testimony meeting on Sunday night from all of the mini-missionaries. There experiences were so vast and different, it was incredible to see the miracles that they witnessed in just 2 and a half days. I always feel the Spirit at meetings such as this. 

Mom, thank you for all of your love and support. I am working to finish strong! 

love,

Elder Lambert

In back, left to right: Elder Olkjer, Elder Greener, Elder Lillywhite, Joseph, Valeria, Sister Esplin, Elder Esplin, and me.

In front: Juan