Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Make your siblings your best friends. Make them the ones you go to first.

HELLO!!!
I'm teaching the kids here everything I know!
Okay, this was a crazy fast week! It was so awesome though!! I have lots to share so I'm going to jump right in! Stop me if I go too fast ;)






To all those who had the belief that Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving at our friend's house....
only exists in the North American Continent, 

THINK AGAIN! Elder Edvalson and I got invited to a family's house last Thursday. Yes, they are filipino; no, they were not raised in the Philippines. 

They lived in the states for over 40 years. They don't even speak Bisaya haha. They aren't members but they invited us over to have a real Thanksgiving dinner. Oh my goodness was I in heaven. 


I haven't had turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, deviled eggs, and Dr. Pepper IN SUCH A LONG TIME. Just stop and think about how happy I was that day. 

Yea. It was awesome.

Okay, next. We had transfer calls on Monday! I am still praying for a confirming revelation that Elder Edvalson really is supposed to leave me :( 

Haha just kidding. I know it's what needs to happen, but that doesn't change how hard it is! 

We have gotten super close this last transfer and I am so grateful for everything he has taught me. He will be transferring to Basak (in the city). 

Don't look Mom...



My new companion's name is Elder Consigna! I have met him a couple times and I know he is a great missionary! This will be his first transfer as a Zone Leader so we'll get some training in as well! 


We have two areas being whitewashed in our zone! Wow. That is crazy! 

 


On top of that, we get two brand new missionaries! I am so excited! I love working with the missionaries that just got here. It's gonna be a good transfer.







 Next, I want to just share a really quick verse I read this week that really
Wow! My amazing brother, Billy, is even famous here!!!
caused me to think back on my family and everything since I was little up until now. 

Family first is something that my parents have done an amazing job teaching me since I was born. 

I came across it as I was studying. Alma Chapter 39 was listed as a reference for the question, "How can I avoid the evils that threaten my family?" Let's read one verse. The counsel of a father to a son: 

Alma 39:10 - "And I command you to take it upon you to counsel with your elder brothers in your undertakings; for behold, thou art in thy youth, and ye stand in need to be nourished by your brothers. And give heed to their counsel."

Since before I can remember, my mom and dad have instilled this true phrase in me: "Your brothers are your best friends. They will always be there for you. Talk with them as much as possible." 

I love my brothers. Billy, Danny, and Jon are my best friends in this life. I can't relate the countless experiences that we've had together. I am so grateful for the counsel and examples that they have given. 

My only advice to all those who read this: Make your siblings your best friends. Make them the ones you go to first. 

"God gave us families to help us become what He wants us to be." I love my family. I am grateful for righteous parents who have done everything imaginable to raise their children in truth and light. Love you!






Lastly, before I close.... We have received several texts from the mission office this morning warning of an upcoming hurricane/typhoon. We are not sure the level of severity, but it is scheduled to hit somewhere around here this upcoming weekend. 

Don't worry about us; we'll be fine :) We will have 72 hour kits and everything packed so don't worry! We have a whole procedure that we follow as Zone Leaders.

But please just keep these people in your prayers. They have experienced so many hardships. I have no doubt that they can overcome anything thrown their way, but let's lift and strengthen them through prayer. Thank you! I love you all so so so much! 

Love,
Elder Jacobs