Just a quick little post this week. A lot happened - many events, a really busy schedule, a bunch of meetings. But what stands out form the last week are the people - this week, specifically, a person; Eugene.
I wrote a little post about Eugene four months ago. Back then, he was very argumentative. We would teach him and he would disagree. But he came to church every Sunday, he participated in study groups, he seemed excited about the gospel. He is brilliant - he knows Hebrew, Greek, and Arabic very well, and can quote the Koran and Bible like the back of his hand. If you misquote a scripture or its location, he will call you out and correct you. Trust me, I know because it’s happened. :) If I could describe the look in his eyes? Cold and calculating. Cunning. Conniving. Eh, maybe that’s a little too much but whatever.
Anyway, that look is gone. He’s just as intense, but there’s peace and love in his eyes. Eugene was baptized last Saturday. The change of heart that he had in the three months that I was gone from this area is unbelievable. He has read, prayed, and come to church more sincerely. As a result, the Spirit has worked on him and softened his heart. He’s become more willing to change. He now has such a desire to serve in the church. He showed up two hours before a special session of church yesterday to park cars. Who does that? I sure wouldn’t have, before my mission!
I’m grateful for how the gospel softens hearts and changes people’s hearts. I love Eugene. It makes me so glad to see him accept the gospel. Watching people change for the better is so fun.
Love you all! Have a great week preparing for this holiday season!
Elder McMullin
 |
| At Eugene's baptism on Saturday |
And ... a few pictures from last week.:
 |
| Our zone pre-transfers. |
 |
| I love this District. I will really miss the missionaries who are leaving Gainesville! They’re all so fun, unique, and quirky. They love being themselves. |
 |
| Leaving a baptism church. We saw this while out biking and had to take the opportunity. It was the last night of the transfer. I’ll really miss elder Butterfield, but I’m glad that we’re both still in Gainesville! |
