Missionaries are spoiled at the MTC

On Tuesday, Elder Oaks gave the devotional, and it was awesome. He spoke of a lot of things, and the general overview would be how missions mature us and bless us.\

     Thanksgiving was awesome. Elder Bednar came and spoke (two apostles in one week!). He did something very unique: about 100 cell phones were passed to the audience, and we were invited to ask him any question about the gospel we wanted. This was broadcast to 14 locations throughout the world, and most had the same opportunity. It was incredible. Highlights (paraphrased):

Q: How can I have faith in something that cannot be proven by science?

A: Belief in science requires faith in the scientist. Science is not holy or objective, and can be used to "prove" whatever a scientist wants to prove. Science cannot give insight on things of the soul, the things that matter most.

Q: How can I have less repetative, more sincere prayers?

A: The more specific you are, the more your prayers will mean.

Smart words:

"I obtained my testimony of the Book of Mormon the same way you have or will."

"If you aren't getting an answer to prayers when you feel like you should have one, it could be a test of your faith."

"Whatever you learn now, make sure it is yours for the rest of your life."

"If you are teaching an investigator and your mind goes blank, bear your testimony of Joseph Smith and the Restoration"

"As you do the simple things that you know you are supposed to, I promise that your faith will be sufficient for any obstacle you will encounter."

We also had turkey dinner and a humanitarian service project where we put together 366,000 meals for people. It was awesome.

Thai missionaries used to be here for 12 weeks instead of 9. That explains the rush of information.

They turned on Christmas lights in the plaza area, and for some reason that made us all really happy.

Funny moment of the week:

One evening, an elder who loves working out was doing squats with his companion on his shoulders while his companion was studying (weird things happen here sometimes. I don't know.). At the low point of his squat, just before he started to come up, a sharp ripping sound echoed throughout the room. His face was a look of total shock as he realized that he'd split his pants right up the seam. We laughed so hard.

Until next week!

-Riley