"And still it stands" (Jeffrey R. Holland) - June 28, 2022

Spiritual Thought 

When we as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints introduce our friends and neighbors to the wonders of this gospel such an introduction almost inevitably begins with an exposure to the Book of Mormon.  We are eager to invite all to "Come unto Christ" through the source by which such a testimony can most readily be received.  The Book of Mormon stands as a pillar of light and knowledge against the canvas of the restoration begun by Joseph Smith.  Through its capacity as "Another witness of Jesus Christ" this book has forever changed the lives of millions of readers spread throughout the world.  As Joseph translated this sacred record I wonder if even he fully comprehended the impact this text would have on the world collectively and countless sons and daughters of God individually.  The Book of Mormon and the latter-day work initiated by it can only be reasonably described as miraculous.

One of the great truths of eternity is that their must be opposition in all things.  Perhaps in no other example is this more true or apparent than the Book of Mormon.  Since the moment when Joseph first saw the plates he would later translate all the forces of darkness have combined to hinder the power of this book.  A book possessing such incomparable power for righteousness must terrify Satan and his followers.  However, in the words of Brigham Young, "let the devil rage...for he knows he is eternally subdued".  This work and the sacred book which accompanies it have constantly been attacked and diminished "and still it stands" (Jeffrey R. Holland)  

This is the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.  The Book of Mormon is truly God's word to man.  No force can or will stop this work from progressing.  

Of this I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

 

Weekly Update

Hello everyone,

Another week as come and gone.  I love the assignment I have right now but it is totally exhausting.  So far we have been up by five every day, out of the house no later than six, don't step foot in our apartment until 10-10:30, and aren't in bed until 11:30 or midnight.  It's busy but I would rather do that then sit around doing nothing.

I was able to go back to my last area twice this week.  Elder Underwood is still there and was very sick for a few days.  His new companion, Elder Johnson, called and asked if I could go teach with him for a couple days while the other Elder Johnson (my new companion) stayed with Elder Underwood.  It was fun to be back in my old area for a little while.

I'm now essentially one week away from leaving.  I am very excited to serve in my original assignment.  I'm grateful for all of the experiences I have been able to have here in Layton and the people I have been able to meet.  Here's to one more week with first-world comforts!

I hope you all have a great week!

Elder Payne

 

Brian the Zone Duck.  Since I almost don't have a companion right now he sat on the chair next to me.

Elder Underwood was very sick for a few days and I ended up staying with him so he would have a companion for a little while.  It was actually really relaxing!

Solo missionary is the way to go, let me tell you!

Somebody put egg shells in a pot.  I think they're a little confused because I'm pretty sure that's not where eggs come from.

Elder Johnson stole a Batman mask from his last apartment and now walks into people's apartments in it.  It's actually hilarious when we wake someone up by shaking their bed and yelling like Batman.  We're on our way to do just that in this picture.

There was an airshow and the Thunderbirds drew a heart in the sky.  

With Elders Southwick and Tolman, in height order, of course, because why not? 

Edgar received the priesthood on Sunday.  I was able to go to his ward for that.  I brought him a gift that I hope will help him remember his entire conversion process.  I told him that I want him to use these scriptures to teach people on his own mission. 

A machete on somebody's front porch.  The people we're very likely high which made everything more adrenaline charged.

A sexy Sienna in a trailer park.  Just a little secret, if you want to know the secret to my heart, here it is: park a minivan in a trailer park surrounded by Mariachi music and work trucks.  I'll be running to that.

I let Elder Johnson drive and, let me tell you, I can now testify the Lord protects his missionaries because I survived the trip to North Salt Lake with only moderate mental trauma.