November 20, 2015 - Friday in Nauvoo

The weather kind of turned a little against us this afternoon as we began to get some cold misty rain.  It is supposed to snow tomorrow and that is not very good timing!  We have the missionary dinner for the Nauvoo Stake and we really need some dry weather with no wind and preferably mid 40 degree temperatures.  

Is that too much to ask for this event tomorrow?  We are attempting to have a fun day for members of the Nauvoo Stake who are recent converts, less active and even investigating the Church.  I am still hoping that the weather, tomorrow, will cooperate!  Like "Facing the Giants"; 'we have prepared our fields'  and now we need the Lord to intervene!

We were up early this morning and had our morning prayers and devotional before going out for our morning walk.  Even this morning it was cold with a slight breeze, but it was very tolerable as we enjoyed the morning sunrise.... take a look!

This was the scene this morning at about 6:30am

Our shift today was back at the Visitor's Center where we continued to prepare the Christmas displays for the season.  I even had some Christmas music playing over the P.A. system.  Here are some action shots of the 16 foot tree in the middle of the Visitor's Center lobby;

All the ornaments were made by senior missionaries over the years!

A little blurry but the star was being placed on the top of the tree

And, this afternoon, we made the final purchases for the dinner tomorrow.  We had such a great response to helping prepare the meal tomorrow.  We had great support when folks stepped up and not only ask how they could help, but jumped in and lent that help...  We are cooking for about 175 now and that includes six 20 to 22 pound turkeys, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, gravy and cranberries, and a huge assortment of pies and extra creamy Cool Whip!  I even bought all the ingredients for 12 Gobbler Sandwiches for the committee!   It's going to be a great day tomorrow!

I am reminded of the Scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 121; starting with verse 34;

 34 Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen? .... 

First of all, the wonderful missionaries we serve with are both, "called and chosen", simple because they are so willing to let go of the things of the world, and they want to help and serve without seeking the accolades and honors of men.  I have come to see many of those we serve with who know who they are, and I can see that their lives are forever attached to the principles of righteousness.    

Working with these missionaries makes me want to be better and do better as we strive to prepare for the Second Coming of our Savior Jesus Christ!   I want to be "called and chosen", and I know mom wants the same.  As we continue to work with such good people, it becomes easier to improve on who we are, and better recognize who we can become!

Thank you for checking in with us tonight, and here's to a great day tomorrow!