In the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, there's a sculpture called "The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living" by Damien Hirst. It's a simple enough concept but thinking about it, it becomes a long, long thought process.
Basically, it's a dead shark in a glass tank. But, when you look at the title and the sculpture, the very idea that the shark, in front of you, that looks like it will jump at any moment, it doesn't seem real.
"The Physical Impossibility of Going Home in the Mind of a Missionary." That's about the summary of my week. Even with everyone trying to tell me that's it's true, reminding me of how many time left, it seems like my mind hasn't been able to absorb that information. It seems that next week will be another great week as a full-time missionary, and not a moment of transition and progress to the return-missionary phase.
baptism of João
But, recognizing that at some point, this phase will change, I want to take a moment to share what I have learned and my testimony that has been gained and strengthened over these last months and years.
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the Lord, even with all of my inadequacies and shortcomings (which I assure you, are many). I have seen His hand in my life, in every day that passes. His spirit guides me and illuminates my path. I have seen the Lord's promise in Ether 12 fulfilled.
"And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them."
convert
I know and testify the this is the Savior's church, the very church that He established, with His same power and authority. Today, we are led by a living prophet of God, who reveals His will and His instructions. I know that God lives. He performs the same miracles and delivers the same blessings that He has always promised. He is our Father and He loves us. He loves me, and I feel that love in every word and every counsel that He gives me, through the words of ancient, modern and living prophets as well as through personal and sacred revelation.
I know that He answers prayers, mine as well as the humble supplication of a young 14 year-old boy seeking answers in a sacred grove. Joseph Smith was called as the prophet of the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He translated The Book of Mormon and re-established the Church of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon is the word of the Lord. It contains the perfect compliment to the Sacred Bible. Together they give us the Lord's will and help us to understand the confusions and complications of a world of men.
I know that my Redeemer lives, that He loves and watches over me. This is His work and His glory, and I am eternally grateful for the miracles and blessings that I have seen.
Thank you for you advice and help and love. It has and will continue to be a blessing in my life.
With love,
Elder Porter Young Schenewark
Brazil Campinas Mission
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