12/27/21: Christmas has come

Christmas is the mission is really something interesting. All of the day I really missed my family and home but could see many blessings from the Lord. It's interesting because up to this point in my life Christmas has been a somewhat self center experience. It was interesting to look outward and serve other on this day. The best part of Christmas was dropping of different treats and candy to kids in different families we were teaching. Some of which probably didn't get much more gifts that day and so they were super grateful which was blessing to be a part of. It also rained all day, and believe me that's a Christmas miracle for missionaries here in Bolivia.


Another way I've felt blessed is to see some change for the better in my companion. President stopped by for a surprise interview with my companion but before the interview start we had a mini companionship study between the three of us. We all shared a scripture and the scripture President shared was out of John 5 which is the story of the man healed at the pool of Bethesda. Jesus asks a question to the man "Quieres ser sano" (Wilt tho be healed?), President the asked the same question to my companion in a direct and powerful way. I was excused at the point and they had an interview. After the interview my companion told me he wants to improve and have more enthusiasm for the work. It was great to hear him tell me that but better to see that hes followed through with action. A really spiritual moment was in a lesson with a less active member we've been working with for a while. He's see a lot in his life as he's lost a child, his wife had left him and become strongly addicted to alcohol. He fighting to improve but he doesn't know how. In the lesson my companion shared the same scripture with him and asked him "Quieres ser sano?" The spirts was felt strongly by everyone, and it was great to see him come to church the next day for the first time in a long time.

It's been a week of small improvements but I feel theres hope for this next transfer as I'll be in the same are with my current companion. We're good friends and we want to help each other improve. I also have confidence that the Lord will help us in every moment. But overall this Christmas is definitely one I've learned a lot from.

Thanks for all your prayers and support!! And merry Christmas!!

Elder Allen




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