Weeks 41 - 43: Loja

Hey friends!

It's been quite a crazy week! A highlight was being able to see our friend Jose be baptized. He took his time and wanted to make sure he was ready. He also wanted to be baptized in a river like Jesus was, so we made a trip to a little town with a clean river for his special day. 

Right after his baptism, Jose treated us to the Ecuatorian delicacy of guinea pig. Aside from having a lot of little bones, it honestly is pretty tasty. Jose was already a cool guy, but now I can truly see a change in him since his baptism. It's been pretty special to witness.

Also, I got a new comp here in Loja! His name's Elder Johnson and he's an absolute stud! It was certainly hard to say goodbye to my friend Elder Serrano, but I know me and Elder Johnson will be able to do some good here. 

Anyway, I'm having the time of my life here and I truly hope you guys are doing well. If there's anything I can do for you don't hesitate to write me up, and I can tell you what a transformative experience my mission has been for me. 

I had a thought recently. We can experiene peace by following Jesus Christ and his teachings, but peace isn't the same as comfort. Even when we're doing everything right, lots of sucky things might happen. But we can have peace because we trust in the Lord and His promises. I think that's what Isaiah means when he describes 'peace as a river'.

Have a great week and take care!

Love,

Elder Bolingbroke