The Laborer in the Vineyard: Exact Obedience is the Key

Elder Kelley really understands the key to being a successful missionary.

"I feel like I am learning something here at the MTC. The difference between a good missionary and a great missionary is their obedience to the "small" rules. A lot of elders will read letters during study time, be loud and rambunctious at 10:15pm, or leave class early. I am striving for 100% obedience to all rules. It is easy to get caught in the gray area if you let yourself."

The only way a missionary will get the most out of his/her mission is by being 100% obedient. I am so grateful, and I know the Lord is, that Jordan understands this concept at the start of the mission and not near the end. So many blessings will come from being obedient with EXACTNESS.

"I watched Elder Holland's talk 'Missions are Forever' and man did he light into us! His point was to obey all the rules, don't waste time, and go home without regrets. He also said if you go home and feel like you can just go back to the way things were when you left then you've failed. You've missed the while thing. He talked about how Peter went back to fishing after the Savior's death. Elder Holland said we'd better not go and grab our nets again when we go home. We are tomorrow's leaders and we must begin learning the lessons required of us to lead the church in the future. Pretty powerful stuff!"

I cannot express how grateful I am that Elder Kelley is learning such vital missionary lessons at the start of his mission. I am certain he will come home a change person - a better servant of the Lord.

Also, in Jordan's letter to Mom this week, he mentioned something very unexpected:

"Elder Hadfield [Jordan's Companion] got a letter and was reading it during class and he started breathing really hard and I heard him say, "NO!" I looked up from studying and he had tears going down his face. I put my arm on his shoulder and asked him what was wrong. He couldn't speak so I told him to come out into the hallway and talk to me. I looked him in the eyes and put my hand on his shoulder and he told me his dad was diagnosed with throat cancer and was going to be getting surgery that could prevent him from speaking. I was at a loss for words. I just gave him a hug and offered to give him a priesthood blessing. What horrible news to get! I can't even imagine!   He has been improving since then, but it's tough for him. His dad can still write letters, so there is still communication from him. It is so sad."

We, too, were at loss of words when Elder Kelley sent this email to us. Life moves on while missionaries are away, but the amount of blessings that pour down upon the families of missionaries is amazing! I hope Elder Hadfield chooses to stay out on the mission. His family, especially his dad, need those blessings from having a child selflessly serve the Lord.

On a happier note, Elder Kelley and Elder Hadfield are doing great on their lessons!

"I have taught 6 lessons and committed one person to baptism already. But it was pretty pityful haha. I basically just read from a card when I teach. It's tough to memorize the language. So far, I have been getting up 10-15 minutes before the alarm goes off and getting a head-start each day. I always feel energized in the morning and dead tired at night. That is definitely a testament to the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood. (D&C 84:33)."

I might need to remind him to read his white handbook ;) If I remember correctly, I am pretty sure getting up before your companion isn't recommended . . . hummm. Anyway, they are doing great!

We received pictures this week as well!! Enjoy!!

Until next week . . .