A Day to Become a New Creature in Christ

Everyone!
As you can see in the picture, Brother Poe covenanted with Heavenly Father this weekend to follow his son, Jesus Christ, to stand as a witness of him at all times, to bear others burdens, to comfort those in need, and to faithfully keep the commandments. Brother Poe has lived in Pocatello with his wonderful wife (second marriage) for around 30 years. He has become acquainted with many members through his wife, who is a member, and through co-workers. About 3 months ago, Brother Poe was talking to one of his good friends, who is a bishop, and realized that he needed to "get his life in order" as he puts it. He was never a man that didn't live as Christ would, but he was a man who had never chosen to follow Christ's example of baptism.

Soon after this conversation with his friend, he called up the missionaries and we started to teach him. It has been a delight. Brother Poe has been attending sacrament meeting with his wife over the 30 years they have been married. He knew the basics of what we taught already, but what was different this time was his intent to act on the promptings he was receiving from the Holy Ghost.

No less than 80 people were in attendance at his baptism. There were 12 men that he asked to be in his confirmation circle. The crowd was so big at the baptism that we had to move it into the chapel. I cannot tell you how many people came up to us and said something to the effect of, "We never thought this would happen," and, "wow this was 30 years in the making."

I am reminded each day, as I sit in a used-to-be stranger's home, of the love Heavenly Father has for each of his children. He doesn't care out background, our social class, or even our age. He cares about the desires of our hearts and our willingness to act on the plans he has for us.

This fast-Sunday was one to remember. When I came into this area, the sisters were already teaching this wonderful 83-year-old lady named Joyce. As a matter of fact, Joyce has been taught for about 2 years now. Recently, we have been getting closer and closer to resolving all of her concerns. In our fast, we asked that Joyce would be able to come to church and feel of the goodness of the members. Never before has Joyce come to church. We get to church and there is Joyce, talking to some other elderly ladies with her oxygen concoction on her shoulder. She loved sacrament and felt the spirit comfort her. I know my prayers were answered.

I don't know all that the Lord has in store for me in these next couple of months, but I am determined to bring as many souls unto Christ as he sees fit. I am searching with eyes that see beyond the shortcomings of the natural man. I know that miracles happen every day. I know that miracles are just a confirmation of the presence of the Messiah. We can each witness miracles if we simply chose to.

I am grateful for the change of perspective I have gained in these short, oh so short, 15 months. Each day is a day to change, a day to become a new creature in Christ.

Love,
Sister Fredrick