Elder Joseph Hicken: The Missionary: Joseph's Last Letter

Monday, February 10, 2014

Joseph's Last Letter

Dear Family and friends,

So I guess this is my last letter. I don't really like to think about that. I'm going to miss so many things. As I go through the last week on my mission I'm trying to soak up every second because I know I'm not going to get this opportunity again for a LONG time, if ever.

I don't think I could have asked for a better last transfer though. We've been so busy every single second, doing all sorts of different things. It’s been great. I've had many opportunities to serve in various ways. For example, we've been getting home-teaching going in the ward for the first time ever! This week we spent a lot of time planning a Temple Trip for recent converts. I’ve also done some other things the mission wanted me to do before going home. This week Elder Fowler and I prepared two convert baptisms, gave trainings, helped some struggling missionaries in the zone, and somehow we’ve been able to squeeze in time to write letters to recent converts on top of all the regular everyday missionary stuff we do. It's been awesome! I feel like I might just go home on a stretcher though, which is perfect. I feel like that’s the way it's supposed to be. We serve with all our heart might mind and strength right? I've really found joy and satisfaction in working hard every day, going home knowing that you're making a difference because of your work.

Hey, those two baptisms we prepared happened this weekend!! It was amazing. I got the privilege of baptizing both these ladies. They are going to be great additions to our ward and strong members. Can't wait to introduce them to you guys! I can't wait for you to meet all these amazing people I've been working with over the past two years! See you soon!

Love, Elder Hicken

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Testimony of Christ and Missionary Work

I often think of the hymn, “I Know That My Redeemer Lives.” I love that song. We actually sing it a lot here in my mission because it's one of the only ones we have in Cambodian. I can honestly say that when I sing that song, I really mean what I'm singing. I know that He lives. As I do what He wants me to do, I can feel His spirit and His influence often. With His help I am able to overcome obstacles and other challenges. How grateful I am for that. I know that He knows and loves each and every one of us individually. I’ve come to realize that He knows us even better than we know ourselves, and so He knows what's best for us. Sometimes what's best for us means that we need to be pushed a little. It's times when I'm feeling especially down and times when I feel like I'm on my own that He literally picks me up and helps me see that I can keep going. He helps me know that everything is going to be okay. It's been in those times when I can feel His love the most. He can bless all of us in our lives if we will but believe in him and try and do what He asks us to do. That's why it's such a privilege serving as a missionary right now. I get to share this special message with others every day so other people can enjoy the peace and incredible blessings that come as we all try to follow Jesus Christ.