Seasons greetings toute la monde! In a day when postage costs are steep and letter writing time is sparse, a simple Christmas blog post will have to serve in the place of a traditional card. I had every good intention to make a Christmas Card with ample time to send them off. As is the case with almost every missionary action, the Lord seemed to think there were more important things to do. It is my testimony that this is truly His work, and I am happy to comply with his plans, for they are always better than whatever I have devised myself. Although that means that perhaps letting go of my "control" I have learned to respond as Nephi did to the angel when he was asked, "knowest thou the condescension of God?" He answered, "I know that he loveth his children: nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things" (1 Nephi 11:16-17).
The most profound doctrine I learn and re-learn everyday is the most basic doctrine we have. God is our loving Heavenly Father. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved (John 3:16-17). As a set-apart representative of Jesus Christ I have the pleasure of bringing these "good tidings of great joy" (Luke 2:10) to the good people of Quebec and Ontario Canada. I am seeing people transform and lives change as they exercise faith in the divine mission of the Redeemer, Jesus Christ. In this I do not exclude myself. Over the course of nearly eleven months my conversion to the Gospel has grown deeper with every day. I witness to the reality of the birth of the baby boy to Mary. He is my Savior. Among all of the extravagant Christmas decorations, I am proud that I get to wear the most meaningful ornament on my heart every day.
I have never loved anything as much as I love being a missionary. The Gospel is precious, and to be trusted to share that is a great calling. I thank the Lord for the confidence He has placed in us. He knows us perfectly, and through His grace and mercy we can live with our Father again. His plan is perfect. His plan is happiness. I invite you to find the joy that awaits you in sharing it with others.
Cheers,
Soeur Sydnie Landeen
This is Sister Landeen & Sister Laurent (from France)
The first snow fall of Montreal
This is Sister Landeen and her previous companion Sister Smith
