Week 16, Apopka - Transfers and a visit from an Apostle (Elder Rasband)


Well, my first area ended quickly...

That's right I'm getting transferred to a new area called Apopka (still in the Orlando Mission). I will be in a trio and I'm super stoked to go there and to find the elect and invite them to come unto Christ.

I've loved all the people I've met here in Valencia, I've had such a cool district and so many cool families that I was able to meet as well. I was able to teach and baptize 2 people who I love so much and hope they can continue to stay on the covenant path. Despite all that I'm leaving behind I'm super excited to be going to a new area.

I also had the incredible opportunity to have an Apostle, Elder Ronald A Rasband, give a short devotional and Q&A for our mission as a Christmas gift to his granddaughter who is in the Orlando mission. He (and his granddaughter) talked about being flexible and pliable in the hands of the Lord. Sister Chade (the granddaughter) struck me with her phrase "But if not". This can apply to all things we ask for or hope for, and implies and understanding and humility before God that his plan for us is better than anything we could want. Elder Rasband closed the meeting by exhorting us and committing us to strive to hold a current temple recommend for the rest of our lives, which is something I'll definitely be trying to accomplish.

While saying goodbye to one of the best families ever, I was able to make Shrimp and grits with the man, the myth, the fisherman (kind of) Kurt. They tasted good. 

Adios,
Elder Ethan Walbom



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