Austin's Madagascar Mission

Monday, June 20, 2016

I can't believe how fast these last two years went. Now it's over. I'm very grateful that I was able to serve God's children in this part of His vineyard. The gospel is great. It is the only way to lasting happiness. Denying ourselves of ungodliness is the only way that we can find lasting joy in our lives. I know that is true. I've seen it happen in the lives of so many people here. It really does change lives for the better. It allows us to return to our Father in Heaven once again. I am sad that I have to leave these people that I love so dearly but I've done my part. I've changed. Others have changed. Life goes on. But what matters most is that we keep changing and keep progressing. I know that enduring to the end is the most important thing we can do in our lives as disciples of Christ and if we aren't disciples quite yet, we can become one. I promise that is the best decision you could make. He died for you and for me so that we can change. We can become new people and we will through His sacrifice. I love Him and I am excited to continue to serve him in other ways that He sees fit that I should serve. I know with all my heart that the church of Jesus Christ was lost for centuries and was restored through the prophet Joseph Smith. I know he is a prophet of God. We are directed by a living prophet today, Thomas S Monsen. The Book of Mormon is true. It is the word of God and combined with the Bible, proves that Jesus is the Christ and Savior of us all. I know that not because I was taught or because I was "raised Mormon" but because I asked God. I distinctly remember that feeling, that witness, of the Spirit speaking to my soul that it is true. I would not have given up 2 years of my life to live in an African country if I didn't know that for a fact. I know that families can be sealed together forever in holy temples through the power and authority of God that has been restored to the Earth. God loves his children and desires their salvation. Our job is to help. I love you all and will see you on the flip side. See y'all on Thursday.

Am-pitiavana,

Elder Coleman