Mall Chino

The Church of Jesus Christ is a LIVING CHURCH.

This week, we had the opportunity to listen to messages from our church leaders who are called by God, and WOW, it is such a testimony that God, like times of old, still communicates with His earthly servants to guide us back to His presence both spiritually now and physically in the future.

I loved our living prophet's invitation at the end of the conference, which was to "think celestial" and "put Jesus Christ first."

For over 365 days, I have had the privilege to SOLELY focus on "thinking celestial" and "putting Christ first." Looking back a year ago, seeing how much I have grown is EVIDENCE of a Savior who saves us from lack of perspective, mediocrity, insecurity, and a purposeless life.

Thanks to "thinking celestial" and "putting Christ first," I can wholeheartedly say that "my JOY is full, yea, my heart is brim with JOY, and I will rejoice in my God" forever (Alma 26:11).

A big part of my JOY comes from the constant work I put in daily to become a true disciple of Christ. Our prophet, President Nelson, has said,

"There is nothing easy or automatic about becoming [a] powerful disciple. Our focus must be riveted on the Savior and His gospel. It is mentally rigorous to strive to look unto Him in every thought."

ASÍ ES!! It takes constant repentance and course correction to "think celestial" and "put Christ first"; however, as we continue to be conscientious, "treasure these things up in [our] hearts, and let the solemnities of eternity rest upon [our] minds" (Doctrine and Covenants 43:34), we will be filled with the "JOY that was set before [Christ]" to "endure the cross" (Hebrews 12:2). In other words, what motivated Christ to suffer "pains and afflictions, and temptations of every kind" was the anticipated JOY that each one of us can feel as we utilize His sacrifice through repentance. That joy CAN FILL OUR WHOLE SOULS.

I love my Savior. I love centering my life on Him. I love the profound JOY I have found through Him.

Highs:

SERGIO and KRISHNA want to get baptized.

CATALINA wants to get baptized.

Krishna responding "bueno" to every commandment we teach her.

Intercambio with the bestie for the restie, THE Hermana Santamaria #mallchino #seeyouatthetemple.

Slowly changing to summer, hallelujah.

Hiking up hills all day.

My companions protect me from scary dogs in the streets.

Playing the guitar, ukulele, and flute while singing Silent Night with my comps. Did it sound good? No. But was it fun? YES.

Decorating the whole house for the birthday of Hermana Briones.

Spoiling Hermana Briones with my purchases at Mall Chino.