MLK Day‏

email dated 1/19/10
Yesterday was Martin Luther King Jr. day, and as a result, all the libraries were closed and we didn't have a computer to email. Our president gave us permission to do our email today, so I don't have much time, but I'm glad to hear that everyone is doing well and is healthy.

I just love my companion, Elder Beals. We are both pretty young missionaries (This is his 2nd transfer and this is my 3rd), but we are both strong willed and determined to do our best. We grow together, learn from one another, and lift each other up on one of us is down. I have a long time before I can even think of marriage, but I imagine that that's one of the beautiful things about having a 'companion': you have someone to turn to, to share everything with, and to rely on.

I continue to see daily miracles out here. Some days it can be something small, and some days I see very grand miracles. Whatever the case, I'm convinced that our lives are full of miracles and tender mercies that often go unnoticed by us. We don't realize how involved God really is in our personal lives and in many intimate ways. How many times have we prayed after an activity that everyone would go home safely and they did? That's an answer to a prayer, a miracle, even if it is a small thing. I've seen how God has answered my prayers in very big ways too, like my decision to serve a mission, go to college, select a career or friends, etc. That's the wonderful thing about our Heavenly Father, no matter how insignificant our problems our individual struggles may seem, He cares and desires with ALL His heart to bless and help us and see us succeed. How many things has He blessed you with that you didn't even specifically pray or work for? I know I've been richly blessed with so many things that I can't attribute to my own abilities. I have things that I can't merit, things that I don't even deserve, but things that a loving Father in Heaven has bestowed upon His son. Take some time to reflect on the 'tender mercies' of the Lord, and take a good look at what you have. You've been blessed with many things that you can't merit to your own goodness. Does your Father in Heaven not deserve your love or devotion? Will you find the time to pray and thank Him, and go to His church, and serve His other children? We are so blessed, and so loved. Love Him back.I don't have much more time, but I love you all. I wouldn't be spending my time out here in Connecticut if this church wasn't true, and I didn't know it with all my heart.

-Elder Shepherd