HUMILITY

hahahha i just want to laugh because im so happy today! (and everyday)

JESUS LIVES!

i've reflected the records i've kept of my mission and reflected each miracle i've seen and i want to just tell you all my humble testimony of Christ and his infinite sacrifice. "it is expedient that there should be a great and last sacrifice; yea, not a sacrifice of man, neither of beast, neither of any manner of fowl; for it shall not be a human sacrifice; but it must be an infinite and eternal sacrifice." christ is the only one who could sacrifice for us. he is the only one that allows us to have an eternal plan of redemption. "he shall bring salvation to all those who shall believe on his name; this being the intent of his last sacrifice" i've thought about how much he loved his father, so much so that he literally took his life. i'm not there yet- nor will i ever be- but i look to christ in the example of who i can become day by day. im grateful to have the records of the ancient prophets in the americas who show that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass- we come to see the miracles of Christ through studying the scriptures. its a "strict" commandment! ALMA SAID IT! man, i could go on forever. but just know that i know who my savior is. and im grateful for his infinite sacrifice that i look to daily. it gives me strength and gives me confidence every day. and i am humbled to know that it was for me.

Mission council this week was SOOO amazing!!!!!!! 1. because i saw sister ritchie and i think my heart felt a little of what Alma felt when he saw his brethren "alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy they were still his brethren in the lord; yea, and they had wazed strong in the knowledge of the truth;" man family, i love that girl. it was such a reunion!!! i love getting correction and knowledge from my Priesthood leaders. we talked a lot about Humility and Pride. isn't it crazy... President Uchtdorf said "Every mortal has at least a casual if not intimate relationship with the sin of pride. no one has avoided it; few overcome it." Christ is our perfect example of humility as in all things of course. "pride is a switch that turns off priesthood power. Humility is a switch that turns it on" we have the "holy priesthood, after the order of the son of god" there can be so much pride in that conviction we as members take-- but i know, when we seek to do the will of the father, just as the savior did, we give all glory to him. will you all read Pride and the Priesthood by Dieter F. Uchtdorf this week? its really amazing and changed the way i look at the Priesthood and how to acknowledge my savior in my successes :)

I GIVE ALL THE GLORY TO HIM!

we went on multiple exchanges this week --- man. i love being with sisters and just going so out of my comfort zone that truly feel Christ in the work. to begin every exchange, together, we call upon a miracle. and every time - its bound - we have one!! a funny one for you- i had an amazing chat with a lady at the bus stop and she was very christian and i offered to pray for her and her family and she said yes! it was short and simple. but as i said Amen, i looked up and her face was right in front of mine and she grabbed my face and said "you are a disciple." and she kissed my cheek... LIKE RIGHT BY MY LIPS GUYS!!!!!!!!!!! i died. thanks Lord, that was a miracle in my book ;)

the work is hastening- its been really busy. we are working diligently and truly strive to have the spirit everywhere we go, and in everything we do. we needed 4 new investigators yesterday and i had no idea how we were going to do it- but we prayed to let his mercy shower upon us and just did all we could calling people and inviting people to meet with us later that night and what do you know-- 4 new investigators in one night. i know the lord is real. and he is the head of this work that is for the salvation of every soul! don't ever be complacent in life-- look to christ and he will motivate your desires. i love him, and i love my heavenly father. i pray for you all every day and im SO grateful for your love and support. each of your letters mean so much to me. you bring me happiness, and i know our family is eternal- even if austin decides to get married eternally without his eternal sister there ;) ;) ;) i love T already- it's weird being ok with giving my brother away. i just know how good you are. and i want to be there with you. i love you all! have a fantastic week coming closer to Christ!

xoxo, sister ovard

p.s. i wont email till tuesday next week- canadian holidays love to be on monday!!!!!!

drum roll......... SISTER RITCHIE!

there is beauty literally all around me. it gives me greater opportunity to rejoice :)