"Make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19) - November 29, 2021

 Spiritual Thought 

Each of us are familiar with the great commission issued by the Savior prior to his ascension into heaven.  On this occasion the Redeemer appeared to his disciples and directed them to "go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."  The common translation given for this verse is the one quoted above.  However, another correct translation would be "go ye therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."  I feel that this translation sheds significant light onto the true nature of the commission which we have been given.

Our purpose in preaching the gospel is not merely to increase the membership of the church or to convince others to join a new self-help organization.  Rather, our purpose and Supreme intention is to "make disciples" of all who will answer the invitation of the Master.  Baptism is the first of many steps which must be taken on the path of discipleship.  Our invitation to each individual and to the world collectively is to "Come unto Christ and be perfected in Him".  My invitation to all is to accept the sobering and significant responsibility to truly become a disciple of Jesus Christ.  Such a commitment requires undeviating devotion to "every word which proceeded forth out of the mouth of God."  As we make this commitment I promise that we will receive divine help along the path of discipleship we tread.  I testify of the source of such aid, the Savior Jesus Christ, and promise that his assisting hand is eternally extended to each person.

In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Weekly Update

Hello everyone,

Phoenix was baptized on Monday.  I was very disappointed when I was transferred because it meant that I would not be able to attend the baptism.  When I said something about missing the baptism Elder Arce asked why I was not going to go.  I responded that it was outside of the zone so I wouldn't be able to.  He then told me to ask President Johnson for permission and he would most likely say yes.  I am so thankful that I was able to attend this important occasion.  Micah and Phoenix are both so prepared and spiritually mature.  I am excited that Phoenix was able to make this important covenant.

After we were given permission to go to the baptism the only problem was how we were going to make it down to Woods Cross.  Elder Gray and Elder Arce thought they would be able to give us a ride but had something come up Monday afternoon.  Elder Ditto and I were trying to think of other options when I remembered which area I'm in.  Some of my families good friends, the Johnsons, live in this area.  In fact, we are currently only living about two minutes away from each other.  I called Sis. Johnson to see if there was any way they could help and she was more than willing to.  I am so grateful for Bro. and Sis. Johnson's kindness and for making it possible for me to attend this baptism. 

All of the zones in the mission were supposed to have some sort of service project on Thanksgiving.  The logic behind this decision is entirely lost on me but for some reason my zone leaders felt that it would be wise to hold a free car wash and hot chocolate stand for our service project.  Please bear in mind that Thanksgiving occurs in late November.  Additionally, I am currently living in Northern Utah, an area whose weather is traditionally rather brisk by the time the 25th of November arrives.  The simple fact that we also distributed hot chocolate should have been an indication of how illogical it is to hold a car wash in November.  As the zone leaders were planning the logistics for this activity they were debating whether or not the water would freeze inside of the hose.  Nevertheless, we witnessed a veritable miracle when rather than the thermometer reach that fateful temperature of 32 degrees we sat comfortably at 34 or even a balmy 35 for about an hour.

We were also able to eat dinner with our Bishop's family.  It was great to be with them to celebrate Thanksgiving.

I hope you all have a great week,

Elder Payne

The Syracuse temple site at sunset.

We were visiting someone and he showed us his Corvette.  It was pretty neat to see.  He told us that he without even pushing it he can be going at least 80 mph by the end of an average freeway on ramp.  

With Micah and Phoenix.

With Bro. and Sis. Johnson

At the illogical sub-freezing car wash.  In this picture I'm at the hot chocolate stand (note: hot chocolate not lemonade, which is normally what should be served at a car wash) with Elder Kolberg and Elder Harmon.