New calling = New blessings!

Recently I received a new calling. While this has been quite overwhelming to me (and all I can think is that I have much to learn) there are blessings I am finding along the way... and one of those occurred today.

Two or three times a year the Stake RS organizes, with a ward in the stake, a luncheon for the missionaries serving in our area for their zone conference. Today was such a day. We fed over 70 missionaries (including 2 sisters!) a nacho-style lunch with tortilla chips, chili, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, and olives. They also had brownies and ice cream for dessert! They were quite the hungry bunch! (I look forward to many more of these events!)

It seems that oftentimes blessings come in bunches, and today was just that sort. The sisters that came to serve were happily serving and worked together so very well. We left that kitchen pretty much spotless! It was a testimony to me that service indeed brings joy.

The other blessing was watching the missionaries eat, and seeing them happily clean up, assisting us in any way they could (moms, whoever you are, you did well... thank you!)

The final blessing came when they were all finished eating and had gathered in the chapel. Those in charge of the zone conference came and collected us sisters, bringing us into the chapel where the missionaries were. Those wonderful, dear, missionaries stood and sang to us (I know this is what they do all over, but I happened to be partaking today, so it was special for me.)

They smiled and they sang, "We Will Bring the World His Truth." I tried my hardest not to cry, but I just couldn't help myself. It was beautiful, and the spirit was present, strongly present. After they finished that song they then sang, "Love One Another." Again, beautiful, and teary.

I am grateful today, for the opportunity and privledge I had to witness and participate in this event. My testimony has been strengthened, and my love for the gospel enriched. As I stood before those missionaries with those other sisters so many things went through my mind. I saw a set of scriptures sitting on the front pew, and my love for the scriptures and the Savior was cemented even more. As I listened to those young men (and young women) sing, I thought of all the missionaries who have served in our family, for their positive influence in my life.

So, while I have wondered why I have been called to this position and have reconciled it is for my own benefit, I stand today quite thankful for the blessings my new position has brought to my life today. I love missionaries!!!!!