My Jesus

"I glory in plainness; I glory in truth; I glory in my Jesus, for he hath redeemed my soul from hell."

2 Nefi 33:6

Dear Friends and Family,

I am so greatful for all of you (not just because it is Thanksgiving) for all the prayers and the support--both physically and spiritually--that you provide for me. I would not and could not be here without all of you (if you are reading this email you are included in the above statement!).

This week was a roller coaster of emotions and spiritual experiences (both good and bad) but it did end on a high note!

I would like to just share with you a brief story and testimony: After all of the things that happened this week, this morning I just felt a little overwhelmed. I was frusterated with myself, with my companion, with the work, etc, etc. and finally I just sank to my knees and started to vent my frusterations to the Lord and tell Him what I really thought about myself, my companion, this area, and being a missionary. When I finished, a feeling of peace came over me and it honestly confused me. Why should I feel peace when I had just been angry with everyone, including myself? How could the Spirit be with me now? The realization came when a thought came into my mind. I don't know if it was the Spirit speaking words, or my mind just interpreted what I was feeling, but I thought to myself about my efforts to change the last week; about me taking the Sacrament and conciously promising Heavenly Father that I would try to be better this next week. I knew then in that moment, that the Lord is mindful of me and that He has been with me every step of the way.

I would like to share with you my testimony of our Savior Jesus Christ. I know that He lives. I know that He has rescued my soul from hell and that He is making something out of me that is more than I thought was possible. I know that as we take the Sacrament each week, we draw Him into our lives and let Him heal us. I know this independent from what others have shared with me or have experienced, because I have experienced it. I know that this is true and I am most greatful for Him, who loves me enough to walk with me on my sometimes difficult path. And I know He walks with all of you too.

Again, I love you all and am so greatful each and every one of you! Happy Thanksgiving!

Elder Arkoudas

Pic1- Moving crew

Pic2- Takes me back to the good ole days (my companion wouldn't take a picture of me milking it).