December 28, 2015

Hey mom and dad what an amazing experience to be able to talk to you guys for some time on the 25th. Really gave hope that everything is going really well over there. I really miss you guys and are happy that you guys were able to be together those days. Next year when Im there Im going to really appreciate the time we have to be with our families. I love the mission and this week i think the Lord tested me. I think he wanted to see if I was going to be loyal to him or to my desires. I feel that I've worked hard this week and helped people come unto Christ. This week we did finish with 22 baptisms, with 4 families, and with 4 hombres mayores (Older men).

We passed our goal by a lot. I feel happy with the things we have reached. Yesterday in a prayer I thanked the Lord for the blessings he has given us and I was so happy for those 22 people that had the opportunity to make covenants with the Lord. Our goal was 18/4/4. We were able to pass that and bring more unto repentance.

This week we got the opportunity to see so many fireworks and literally thought I was going to die. I cant believe it. I have never seen so many fireworks and I have never seen them so close. Literally there was one time where you couldn't hear from how many there were. I love my companions and time i had to be with them. Christmas day I had the opportunity to serve my Lord and verify with the missionaries. After I verified with them I went to sleep until 11:45 so i could see the fireworks. Then after seeing them I went back to sleep. I was so tired from all the work we have going.

We will see what happens today in changes and this P-day. Im really excited and ready to work. What ever the Lord says I will do. Yesterday I had the opportunity to teach a family that are members but are passing through some problems. It was really sad that for them Christmas was kind of like a heavy weight. With the spirit we brought some things to light. We put goals with them to complete them. THey had problems with drinking and with other friends that one starts judging then the other one. We helped them to find happiness with the light of Christ and with the atonement of Jesus Christ.

THe really terrible thing that is happening here in Peru is that their is no trust and the love is getting colder and colder. They start letting the problems get in between them. I was telling that family that because of the actions that you've done in the past are coming out to light and we have to face the consequences. I really truly love the gospel and the way it helps the families in their progress here on earth. I see situations that makes me not want to make those mistakes.

I know that the things we share are truly valuable and I will never under value it. I know that its the only way we can find true happiness and peace in our lives. I love you guys and I hope to start this coming year with a determination that I will be the best that I can be.

Something I forgot to tell you in my video chat is that Im grateful to be able represent our family and the Our author of salvation Jesus Christ. It's a true honor!

Elder Parra