Elder Zachary Gehring: My Purpose

Dear Family,

This week it got really really cold in Tarija. Like really cold. Also, I played a trumpet for the first time in about a year and a half. Also I got to go on exchanges with the Asistants. Elder Carabajal is from Argentina and I learned a lot from him. Then the next day we had zone conference. President asked me to direct the meeting. Also a lady in our ward cooked for the conference. She made keperí. It was sooo good. With arroz con queso and yuca. Way way good. Mom and dad, you have to learn how to make it. Sí o Sí. Thats what Im going to want to eat when I get home.

As I studied chapter 1 of Preach my Gospel before and after the zone conference this week, my studies led me to study my covenants I have made. I realized that as people become converted, their only desire is to follow the Savior. As they do this, they realize that covenants are the only way to promise to follow Him. I made a list of all the covenants I have made in my life.

I started with Baptism, confirmation, receiving the Priesthood, going through the temple, and even the covenant I made as I sent my letter of acceptance to the First Presidency.

I studied the things I promised, the blessings I am entitled to, and also what is means in the long run. I was reminded of the importance of Baptism. I am a witness of Baptism. I have been baptized, I have been able to baptize others, and I have helped many people progress toward baptism. I realized that My Purpose is help people make covenants.

By realizing this, I realized that My Purpose is an eternal purpose. I will never stop making covenants with God and as I do, I have to help others do the same as part of my covenant to follow the Savior. I love the Gospel. It makes me happy. When we were in the Council on Friday and you asked me if I received revelation, I did!! I was told by the Holy Ghost (for the millionth time I think) that I was truly happy. Sometimes I forget it but as I keep covenants, I receive a fullness of joy. I am a happy missionary. I love making other people happy. I love baptism.

I now also have a brother in law. Cuñado se dice en español. I am sad I couldnt be there during the whole wedding process. Oh well, good thing Chelsea got married for the eternites and not just for this life. Im grateful for the covenants we can make in the Temple and for the sealing power here on earth.

I love you all,

Hurrah for Temple Weddings!

Elder Gehring

ps. These fotos are of me playing an instrument called la caña. Also of the Sossa Family. They are going to be baptized on the 18 de Agosto.

pss. Send me lots more fotos of the wedding!!!!!!!!

Psss. Im going to send you all more fotos