Šišanje I Meekness

Bok bok!


We had a good week of lessons, service (breaking open safes and such), finding a new guy and then having a sit down talk for two hours about his sermon on the natural man, giving priesthood blessings, and getting our English classes and Halloween activity ready to go!



My favorite moment this week happened today though. We went to get a šišanje (haircut) and I sat by this man (Miroslav) whose blind autistic son was getting a haircut. We started talking about the mission and he couldn't believe how long we stay out and told us how grateful he was for the "hope we bring to the world". Then his son, Viktor, sat down by me and we started talking about music and then he wanted to hear all about our church. So I explained that Christ established it and ended up teaching the whole Restoration to this guy, his son, and the barber. They all listened so closely to every word. When I finished, it was quiet for a little. And then I invited them to come and see for themselves. The spirit was very strong, and then Viktor reached out blindly and grabbed my hand and shook it, and said "I will come." One of my favorite moments on the mission so far, I know God put us into their path and I am grateful for the opportunity I had to open my mouth and share what I know. Very special people.



I want to share something practical I learned this week about meekness. I sometimes struggle with keeping my emotions in control. The idea I learned lies in the quote "Act, rather than react." It is altogether to easy to react to something that annoys, hurts, or offends you in some way. But there is so much more power in acting, rather than reacting. Jesus Christ set the perfect example of meekness for us. He was mocked, betrayed, and crucified and yet He remained at peace and even asked forgiveness upon those at fault. I promise you that if this is something you struggle with, Christ can and will strengthen you. I will leave you with this quote about meekness: "Meekness is strong, not weak. Active, not passive. Courageous, not timid. Restrained, not excessive. Modest, not boastful. And gracious, not brash." Pray for and choose to be meek. It is and will always be worth it. 



As always feel free to shoot me an email!



Elder Neil



Pictures:

-My son Elder Childs breaking open safe

-using every last bit of change to pay for a pizza we ordered 

-Istria 






Nathan,



Awesome story.  It looks like the Lord led some who would "Let God Prevail" into your pathway.  Seriously, can't wait to share this with the children tonight since we have also been praying for this for you and Elder Childs.



Great talking to you today.  I appreciate your desire to be worthy and to feel the peace that comes with forgiveness.  I believe it becomes a matter of trust...which is faith...in Jesus Christ.  Constant improvement must include constant noticing our imperfections, but the Lord is the first one to say to be of good cheer.  It's a commandment I love.  Be of good cheer; the Lord has overcome all and the enemy of your soul is the greatest causer of our feelings of continued guilt and worthlessness.



Thank you for your exceptional example...especially of being meek and forgiving.  Especially since you and I locked horns at times.



Love you son, for the greatness of your soul!



Dad


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