But I do not joy in my own success alone, but my joy is more full because of the success of my brethren, who have been up to the land of Nephi.
Behold, they have labored exceedingly, and have brought forth much fruit; and how great shall be their reward! Now, when I think of the success of these my brethren my soul is carried away, even to the separation of it from the body, as it were, so great is my joy.” -Alma 29:13-16
During the past 15 months, God has given me much success and joy as a full-time missionary. I have witness many souls brought to the waters of baptism, return to their faith and grow greater faith in their Savior. I too have developed a stronger relationship with my older Brother- Jesus Christ, the Holy Messiah- whom I LOVE. It has brought me joy beyond expression and comprehension, but I find even greater joy in seeing the success of others. Each week I read letters from other missionaries: Sister Leach, Reeve, Park, Daines, Hernandez, Nicoll, Bromley Elder Crandell, Andersen, Reed, Burt, McKinlay and so many others. I hear the experiences of the elders in our ward and sisters in our zone, of past companions and many others who have seen miracles flow into their lives and it fills my heart! I rejoice with them in seeing souls reconciled with God.
This past week has been incredible. We were able to get permission to blitz a couple sets of sisters after exchanges, so we spent a Thursday and Friday in Delmar! It was wonderful to work their areas with them and find the elect! We saw massive blessings and were able to find many new people who were prepared for the restored gospel. One of the highlights there was walking up to a womans door just as she and her son pulled up! She allowed us to come in and explained she hadn’t gone to church in years, neither had her 2 sons. Earlier this week she had been thinking about coming back, and she felt we were an answer to her prayer! Her husband is not a member of the church, but several years ago was preparing for baptism and things fell through last minute. She expressed her desire to go to the temple with her family one day and we said, with grins on our face, “We are here to help with that!” It was a beautiful experience.
We were also able to attend the baptism of Lorilie a few weeks ago, James last week and will be attending George’s this coming week! We have 6 elders in the ward and they are seeing many blessings! I am SO thrilled for them and for the wonderful new members of the Lords kingdom!
When I think about the great number of Saints being gathered into the house of Israel, I feel such gratitude towards God! The truth is rolling forth and filling the earth, touching and changing lives forever. It is incredible to see the great number of people joining the church of Christ and seeing prophesies fulfilled!
This week I invite you to rejoice in others success! Be happy for other people and find joy in their joy! Comparison is the thief of joy, you cannot do it! When you see others succeed, pat them on the back and give them a big grin. Tell them how pleased you are and how joyful you are to see their joy! Let that joy spread like the sun, shedding light to ALL!
I am grateful for my Savior and I know He is the way the truth and the LIGHT! He finds great joy in your achievements and desires to always bless and keep you!
Sister Rebekah Ruth Folkman 