Parable of the Sower

Amazing how the days fill up and the time flies by.  It is so great to hear from Martin and Laren each week and hear their testimonies.  Missions aren't easy, but they are rewarding.  I am so proud to have two wonderful grandsons doing their best each day as they serve. What a great example you are for me!!  You two will never regret it!

We had a short but really good FHE last night.  They talked about the parable of the sower and all the different places the seeds fell and tried to grow.

Many of the same ideas were discussed as usual, but there were two things shared that made me think a little deeper on the whole parable.  One was that the seeds were exactly the same where ever they were sowed.  There weren't better seeds sown in one area than another. So it was pretty much dependent on the soil that received the seed as to whether it did well or not.  Second, the sower wasn't partial to any particular soil, he sowed them everywhere.  Perhaps a reference for us missionaries to consider.  And oh yes, there is a third I want to add:  Verse 14, "those that fell among thorns are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection."  So they don't die off, they are still here, just not fruitful.  Think about us church members, we can get choked with cares and pleasures so much that we don't necessarily leave the church but we just are not fruitful.  As compared to those in Verse 15 that fall on good ground, have an honest and good heart and bring forth fruit with patience.   Just a few things to think about.

Dad and I helped a young girl yesterday afternoon who was getting her mission papers ready to send in.  She traveled about three hours on bus with here mother to come to our clinic.  She lives in a smaller remote area.  She and her mother dressed in their nice clothes, which they call the tipico clothing.  It is very beautiful and sturdily made and each area has their different patterns, colors and weave.  I have added a picture of them with us and the new dentist, Elder Harris from Idaho Falls.  This young lady was so sweet, she will be a wonderful missionary. We meet so many like her.  Another young  20 year old girl came in yesterday for the second time so we could finish up her dental work.  She brought us all a little candy bar with a scripture attached and a thank you for the service we give each day.  She too will add a lot to the mission she is assigned too.

At a museum last weekend I spotted this flower on a tree in the yard. It had only about 4 or 5 blossoms, but they were so unique and pretty I just had to share.  

Dad and I took a selfie from our roof top the other day, thought you might like to see the view from one side of our apartment building.  Pretty green, huh?  And it isn't even the rainy season yet.  

The other picture is of a group of missionaries from the MTC here after we have finished their dental work.  All great kids, from a variety of backgrounds.  

Yes,  I agree with Martin and Laren...The gospel is true.  Heavenly Father hears and answers each and every prayer.  He knows each of us, our challenges and successes and loves us no matter what.  

    Our prayers are with each of you!!

I hear you have more snow.  Enjoy every bit of it for us!  Spring is coming.

    Love to all,  MOM,  Grammy,  Shaun