How is everyone? I'm sure the weather is fantastic wherever you all
are. It's amazing here! The sun is actually up today! It's been 3 weeks
or so since I've seen the sun out. Bergen just rains, rains and rains.
Yet one neat thing I've learned, is that the Spirit supports us despite
our surroundings. "The world takes the man out of the slums, but Christ
takes
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| Chillin' before bed |
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| The Bergen Theater |
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| Voss Cathedral |
the slums out of the man." Those same supporting feelings are what
got the pioneers across the plains. A purification and sanctification
process not possible any where else. This mission is an amazing
opportunity!
However the biggest problem when you're in an
intense opportunity (such as a mission), is pride. If you think your
desires will bring you the most happiness, think again. As we heard in
the last conference (Elder Cook?), we will always be happier doing
things the Lord's way. Therefore, by being humble (willing to submit to
the Lord's will) you are therefore happy. This past week I thought I
could do things my way, and felt the reproving result. The Lord chastens
those He loves. I'm so loved! hehe
We took a train to Voss this past week. That was
beautiful! Oh my word, the fjords here will knock your socks off. And I
was also filled with gratitude for Bergen. Bergen is extremely warm
compared to other areas in Norway right now. Voss was freezing! Luckily,
as missionaries, we move around enough to keep us warm. Mom, thank you
for the smart wool - they are deliciously warm!!
Another thing I have been learning is how to have
fun despite everything around you. Being serious, sad and mopey is NOT
what this Gospel is about! And sometimes it's hard to find something to
laugh about! The gravity of the world seems to weigh down on you once in
a while. Recognize that gift God has given you, and then open up to
those around you. It really helps. One great experience was this past
week we had an old man on the city train, really drunk, and he played
the recorder for everyone! It was so sweet!
Speaking of talking with other people, I have really
recognized a strong method Satan tries to stop this work of the Gospel
from going forth: by keeping us quiet. Elder Holland this last
conference talked about how the adversary tries to stop us from opening
our mouths. This is literally applicable to the
members of the church.
When missionaries bring investigators, please talk with them and at
least get their time and say "Glad to see you at church today!" When
people don't feel accepted in our church something is seriously
seriously wrong. For me, when I feel like being quiet and just sitting
down being comfortable, I recognize that that is the adversary trying to
stop my efforts in strengthening those around me. The same goes for
each and every member of this church. And working through a language
barrier is really uncomfortable and scary! I look forward to when I can
easily understand others in this language. Everyone: please talk with
each other - the adversary is trying to stop you from opening your
mouth!! And if you feel insincere, open up to page 118 in Preach My
Gospel.
Thank you all for your love and support! (Ken, your
letter has gotten me through this week). Lara, I just received your
second letter, I'll write a response next week! Hope you got my other
letter. Your prayers are felt and appreciated. I love you all - open
those mouths!
-Eldste Bryce Thomas Johnson
-Eldste Bryce Thomas Johnson
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| Mushroom, Mushroom |
