August 19th, 2013

Familia..

Another week in Austin! It's been a crazy one. We've had lots of great lessons and met lots of new people. As I have been pondering about what to write home this week, my thoughts are constantly turned to service. I was reading in Preach My Gospel the other day and for some reason, when i read the line, "You have been called to serve.." it hit me. I have been called to SERVE. Serving others doesn't always mean painting your neighbors fence, or carrying groceries in for the lady next door. You can serve by sharing your testimony. That is one of the greatest ways I have been able to "lose myself" in the service of our Savior. 
As times continues on, I have found more and more struggles and disappointments with our investigators, with the work, but i have also found more and more opportunities to serve others. I was having a rough day this week, we were invited to a birthday party for Judy Meza. Her dad is completely active, her mom comes about 60% of the time and her younger sister hasn't been in years. This family is so loving and always has us over for dinner. She calls us everyday to make sure we have somewhere to eat. Judy (the daughter) has many health difficulties and can't talk. but she uses sign language to communicate. It's been a neat experience to be able to sign with her, as i try to remember what I learned in my ASL class in 7th grade. We went to the party and were the first ones to arrive. Their daughter Nancy was there. We've been trying to meet with her my whole time i've been here in Austin and haven't been able to do it. We noticed something was different as soon as we walked it. Nancy immediately asked us about the Plan of Salvation. Her cousin had passed away the day before and she wanted to know where he was and what was going to happen. After we read a few scriptures, I finally just opened my mouth, praying that the Spirit would lead me what to say. She started crying, the spirit filled the room and I realized my problems that were making me sad, weren't problems at all. I know that our families can live together forever. I know that this time away from home, though it may be hard at times, is so short compared to the eternities. I am so grateful for the knowledge of this Gospel and the opportunity I have to help others live with their families forever. 
I am so thankful that Baby McCrae made it safely to Marielle and Conner! I know that he was just with our Father in Heaven. What a blessing it is to have a newborn in your arms and to be able to feel of their sweet spirits. 
Family, you truly are what keeps me going. I am so grateful for you and your examples. I pray everyday that we can each come closer to Christ. Our brother. So that we can be worthy to live with Him again. As an eternal family. It is my prayer that we will all do our part. That we will serve others, and in doing so, we will be serving God. 
I know this Church is true. I know that the only way to happiness is through this gospel. Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. The Book of Mormon is true! I love it. I love my mission. Have a great week!

Con Amor,
Hermana Egbert

lovely sweat after walking to the capitol

Judy and hermana rodriguez and i :)

Abacuc.. one of our investigators he has a date for the 7th of September. He's the funniest old man. We always teach him at Hermana Paulson's house :)

Hermana Meza and Judy (on the left)

best surprise ever!! we're HOPEFULLY going to move to new apartments thanks to Brother Turner! It was so nice to see a familiar face.. not to mention receive a hand delivered package. :)