Dec. 5th

So this was my first week with Elder Marz as my companion and he is incredible! Super super kind heart, very close to people and Heavenly Father and he likes all the same things I do! I'm so very very grateful to have had so many wonderful companions and I'm even more grateful to continue having new ones. Elder Marz is very talented at fly tying, anything to do with fishing, swimming and getting along with people. Plus he's super humble.

The Lord is starting me off in this transfer with many blessings and one of those is Journal Square, Jersey City. This place is super different than my last area! There's a lot more Indians, a lot less Spanish people and a whole lot more city. Plus we're in a driving area so it's a whole new world in the way of proselyting.

I haven't quite gotten completely submerged in the culture here yet so I'll send a more thorough report back next week, but one thing is for sure the members here will fill your stomach until food starts coming out your nose 😂

Ever since Thanksgiving I've been seeing more and more of the Lord's hand in my life, especially during this Christmas season when we focus on giving rather than just receiving. I've realized that the more we turn outward the more we grow in not just our power but how to tap into the Lord's. I wish I had my study journal because there's been some amazing scriptures I've found over the past couple weeks..
Here's an awesome one!

Mosiah 24:
12 And Alma and his people did not raise their voices to the Lord their God, but did pour out their hearts to him; and he did know the thoughts of their hearts.
15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.

Afflictions are hard and often times they come even when we don't ask for them, that just happens to be how much the Lord loves us. With afflictions and trials we grow, we blossom. We gain Christlike Attributes and learn to "submit" more frequently to the point where afflictions become "cheerful" and cherished moments. "Patience" allows us not only to let the Lord bear our burdens but to also spend our energy helping others during the meantime.
I bear my testimony with all my heart and energy that it does not matter how strong your belief is. It matters how strong your heart is. Pray for trials and the Lord will answer them and help you recognize His hand. Look forward with hope for the best and the faith you gain will become a tool to strengthen the hearts of others. Let us do all we can this Christmas season to aleve the burdens of others and #LIGHTtheWORLD!


Love Ya all Tons!

Elder Lucas Michael Johnson.

Elder Johnson and Elder Marz