7-14-24 Mini MTC

Aloha mai kākou! Another beautiful week in Philippines nei! A very busy week, filled with countless opportunities to grow, and hand of the Lord moments, in which I am thankful for the Lord, for his constant companionship in this beautiful work. This last Saturday, we had the opportunity to hold a Mini MTC experience for the youth! In which we had activities and lessons in the beginning of the day, and headed out to teach in the afternoon, using the skills learned from the workshops. As we headed out, these very eager youth, were so excited to walk down the streets to testify. They smiled and laughed, opening their mouth to everyone, and simply being great missionaries. Of course with a few challenges arising, they remained driven and motivated. While we taught, they bore beautiful testimonies, and even taught a few messages. I was very very impressed by the way they held themselves, and the class that these young men and women held while sharing the gospel. My thoughts continue to stay with the question, what is it worth? A runner will run miles, for a medal, cash prize, or even simply recognition from others! A student will study, until early in the morning, to simply at the end of graduation, recieve a paper! If our prize, is a family for eternity, and everlasting happiness, what is this worth it to us? And what are we willing to do to obtain such? Of course its not easy, but its worth the run, and early mornings. Two years seems too quick, and even a lifetime of service to the Lord, feels like its still short of the price, of such a prize. The prize continues to become increasingly more valuable, as we come closer to the Lord, and realize the true worth and extent of it. So we will continue and endure to the end no? For such, we will do what it takes. Because thats the worth. These youth were a testimony, that even with their age, they started the race. Theyre still studying, and will continue to, because they are coming to know the worth. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a missionary, to show others the way, to such a prize. Matthew 13:45-46 Alam ko na totoo ang simbahan na ito. At sa pamamagitan niya, at nitong ebanghelyo, magkakaroon po tayo ng pagkakataon upang mabuhay, kasama ang mga pamilya po natin, para sa walang hanggang. Para sa akin, sulit po yan talaga. Siyempre, mahirap po lahat, napakaraming pinagdadaanan po noon nakaraan linggo, pero sulit siya, pag iniisip natin patungkol sa layunin. Please keep my companion, Elder Pampelon in your prayers! That his surgery will go well today! Love you guys choken, but love this work moa! Aaaaaloha. ELDER ISHIBASHI