week 48 . think celestial

Hello Everyone!
 
It’s been a fun week in the Philippines. As the months turn towards Christmas, the rain is getting stronger. Some of the locals speculate that a large storm will hit in December. I'm not too keen on getting flooded out and having that affect our work, but it is certainly a possibility.
 
This week we were able to extend baptism to one of our investigators and they accepted! Since we have taught them, they have come to church every single week. They have truly been prepared by the Lord for us. She has told us many times that she had prayed someone from our church would come and tell her more about it. It is amazing to be a part of an answered prayer. 
 
Last week I also had the opportunity to go on exchanges in San Isidro. This area is in the middle of nowhere which means a lot of biking through the mountains. This area also speaks Bisaya, so I had the opportunity to switch languages for a day. They speak slightly differently than in my previous areas, but I was thankfully to still be able to understand. The views are stunning there and we hiked to houses where there was almost no trail. It was truly an adventure.
 
In my mission we do a lot of hiking. Sometimes many miles accumulate before we reach our destination. We hike through mountains, across rivers, into valleys, along the beach, wherever is needed. There used to be timed when my mental state would deteriorate by the end of the day. I would begin to think about my feet, my legs, or I would question my ability to do it again tomorrow. I discovered, however, a simple solution to correct my worrisome thoughts. That is, to remember the purpose of my actions.
 
In the most recent general conference, the prophet, Russel M. Nelson, told us to "Think Celestial". Think with the highest point of heaven in mind and don't let your actions or thoughts waver from that goal. Keeping your eye on the goal is important, but it is also important to remember why it is your goal in the first place. When we keep our eyes on coming closer to the Savior, remember that it is through Him that we receive eternal happiness. That by His grace, we receive a forgiveness for our sins. That His love is promised to accompany us for eternity. 
 
Growing your testimony is seeing the progress you attain by following Him. It is seeing His help in attaining the goal of eternal exaltation. When we see His hand and recognize his power, all fear washes away. We understand that it is only through His grace that our nature truly changes. My feet don't bother me when I walk anymore. I know my purpose in being here and my eyes are on the goal. I encourage all of you to "Think Celestial" and remember your purposes for having that as your goal. 
 
I know Russel M. Nelson is a prophet of a God, and I know that if we follow his council, we will draw closer to the Savior. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
 
Elder Wilhelm 
 
Also, if you have not watched President Nelsons talk, I would highly recommend it.