A Neighbourhood of Millionaires 8-11-14

Well what do I say about a week in paradise? Probably that is isn't what you all think it is! Oh boy! We were out street contacting a couple of days ago and we found this neighborhood of millionaires. I am not sure which was more nerve racking, at first, testifying to some of the riches, high standing people that I have perhaps talked to, or to walk down some of the most dangerous streets in the world. I tell you what though some of the most powerful moments of my mission will be when I bear testimony to someone of a high position, rich (in a  worldly aspect), and popular. I can recall several times over the last week where I have found myself of a multi-million dollar estate, actually on the porch, knocking on the door. What happens next is exhilarating and amazing. As we stand there patiently waiting, our heart somewhat quaking because some of these yards of dogs that tend to want to kill us, the Spirit seems to come over. The heart beats soften, the courage strengthens, time slows down and peace reigns. As the door will open our mouths are filled with the most amazing and wonderful news that we could ever bear, the gospel of Jesus Christ. Many times we have stood and born such strong testimony to these
people that the very earth seems to shake beneath us. Yet despite this Spirit outpouring, many of these people just turn us down and tell us to get off the premises. I have to laugh because we have been chased after by a couple of dogs. A couple of days ago, there was a gate open, and when we approacedh a pack of 7 hungry wolf-dogs came after us. We both took off tearing down the street. When I started to pull away from my comp, he stopped and grabbed a mango seed to throw at them.....hahaha. Luckily, that was what stopped the dogs from coming after us. God works in mysterious ways. 
   But, there was one guy that we met that invited us in.....I had no idea how stinking nice his house was! They have their own private canal! After talking with the man about when we could return (we got to sit in the A/C while we did thank goodness!!!!!) He invited us to take a spin on his 2 jet skis.....I was disappointed but we politely said no. He then offered to take us scuba diving......again, disappointingly I said no. Then he asked if we would feel more comfortable if his son took us......no. We explained what who we really were, and about the rules. Then I chimed in, "...but I will take you up on each offer in about a year or two with my family." The man smiled and said, when you come back bring your family. You can stay here the whole time you are in Freeport, and you may use everything I have. Cool experiences of knocking doors for you. 
   I have gotten questions about my comp so here it is: Elder Peters is an amazing missionary as well, boy if only I could learn to be as open with my feelings as he is. There are so many characteristics that I can see in him that I want, I will work hard and who knows maybe a little bit of greatness will rub off from Elder Peters to me. From day one we have gotten along very well! We have a lot more in common than I thought; especially about the part of wanting to consistently improve ourselves. Elder Peters and I have had some very powerful lessons! Just about every time we sit down to teach you can just feel the spirit starting to flood the room. I love Elder Peters. I have spent a great deal of wondering about a couple of things though. We have been very diligent on finding people to teach, in fact we have, in the last 8 days, filled up 2 (front and back) potential investigator forms. (In our planners we only have 2 pages left for those we contact). What can I say....we do work out here! 

I love you all, I hope you know that. Christ lives and so shall we.

Until next week.

Elder Henderson

First Week in Freeport!! 8-3-14

Wow. What can I say more than that? Things here are extremely different! The culture here reminds me a lot of back home but I think that I have gotten so used to things there in Jamaica that it has become almost forgien to me. I really like it though. haha I stepped off the plane with Elder Fitkau in Nassau and I was so intregued with the carpet. It has been a long while since I have seen that. I always will be walking with Elder Peters, street contacting or going to a lesson, and I see things like lawn mowers or no pot holes on the roads and I think it is the coolest thing ever! Everything is just so different. There differences between the two countries is incredible. Again....wow. I would have never guessed that I would ever be able to be facinated the most simple things of life back there in America. You all are truly blessed. You have no idea what you have! I didn't either until I came out and saw the poor of the poor in Jamaica, that was a humbling experience. Be grateful for what you have. Don't let a single moment go by without being grateful! In all reality we should never be not grateful because the situation every single one of you are in is just far beyond the people of Jamaica. 
   So far everything is going really well. I am adjusting, I  think, very well. I have been very impressed with our branch President, he has so much fire, so much enthusiasm, and so many things he wants accomplished before he leaves in two years. By the way, Presiden Konacoa was wondering if you could come visit. I guess it has been a while and it would really boost the branch. We really have a direction to go. I am excited I think that as we bring back, and get started key members that things will start hastening. The area here has been well taken care of and I have been very impressed with the up-to-date area book. Elder Peters has things pretty down and I am pumped to be with him. We are getting along really well, and we both want to work hard.
This will be a hard working fun time here.
   To give you what it is like to be one this wonderful peaceful island imagine the quiet time in the morning before anyone gets t of bed right before the sun comes out. That is how it is all the time here. There are about 20,000 peolple here so not even as many people as a large university. The views remind me a lot of Virginia. There are the same trees every where! There are no mountains and I guess we are slightly below sea level is what I am told. The culture is like Americans except they are a little bit behind, it is like being Americas shadow. The money they use is intermingled with the USD because the BD is the same worth as the USD. I love it here! The branch is super small even smaller than Downtown but, I love it! 
   The pic I sent is of a guy that is best friends with Bolt! He will be running in the next Olympics I convinced him that when he wins a medal or even if he doesn't to give me a shout out..."Elder Henderson my brother this is for you!" But he is a chill guy and seems to be fairly prepared. We will be teaching Ryan Thursday, keep him in your prayers. I had a humbling experience. I met a recent convert named Julian. He is 18 and a football (american football) star. He is going into his senior year of high school but he wants to go to the US to try and play college ball. I guess his family life is the most worse thing you could imagine, it reminds me of some of the Downtown members. But, as he has gotten a taste of the restored gospel he has taken off. He is clinging with all he has to the gospel! It reminds me that we too must be as this high school senior. We must do everything possible to do what is right or it will not be enough! 2 Nephi 32:3 "....feast upon the words of Christ...." Feasting is eating until your belly bulges, you have unloosened your belt, and you have packed as much in as possible! I implore all who read this email to make that your goal every single day! We are in a time and era where the Devil is gaining power every single day. How strong people were spiritually 2-3 years will not be enough for our day and time today! We must all be aboard, we must all put our shoulder to the wheel. I testify that if we will do these things then we will be able to "be still and know that I am God." He will be our God. He will not be ashamed of us but will protect us. Of these things I know for I have seen them in other peoples lives, in my own life and the Spirit of the Lord has born testimony that these things are true. Look at your feelings now, you will know what I am saying to be true. The Spirit is present with you now. I love and care about you and all of my brothers and sisters from all nations; so I shall raise my voice as Captain Moroni. I will not be silent for that is all it takes for the Devil to win. Open your mouth and share it with someone you know. Save a soul.

See you next week,

Elder Henderson

Transferred to Freeport! 7-26-14

   This was a good week. I have really enjoyed my time here in Downtown. It was strange though, last week after we dropped off Cesar Rosario and we were driving back I had the distinct impression that I had accomplished everything that I was called here to do. I started to look back over the goals and revelation that I had recieved when I first arrived and it was true, I had done everything. Those feelings were new to me. Even when I heard that my paperwork didn't go through on Monday, I had a reassuring feeling that I had still done everything asked of me in Downtown and it was my time to leave. I can show you the journal entry for last Sunday. Weird. This place, Downtown, has etched itself upon my heart. I truly do love the people here. I will always remember the sparkle in the members eyes when they finally got it, or the investigators. I will remember the hard times that we had in helping the members establish better relationships with their families and getting them to be more excited about missionary work. (We are still working on that but they have come a long ways. The youth are still the ones driving the work there. God works by the simple and humble.) I love this place! 
   On the flip side of things, I am extremely excited to be going to Freeport. I do not know the area, I hardly know my companion, but I know one thing and that is the Lord always provides a way. We will do great things out there, with the help of the Lord. I am also very excited to be able to teach all day again! YEAH! I love to teach, there is nothing really more rewarding than that. Elder Martin is also ready to take over the office. He has grown and learned alot. He has done a lot better than most would especially since he was thrown into the fire of things with the new cars coming in, etc. Elder Martin is a great missionary and he will do wonders here. I am a little sad because I won't see him until I go home but, it must be for the best because it is from the Lord so onward. 
   You told me as well to keep you updated on the basketball bunch. Well we had a chance to teach them again 3 days ago. It was another wonderful lesson. This time we had 4 of them show up, 3 of them are showing real interest. This last lesson at the end one of them asked us about Joseph Smith......oh boy I get all giddy when that question is asked. We were short on time so we gave them a brief overlook that he was a prophet of God and let them know that we would be speaking with them more about it here this coming week. All of them were excited and asked for another pamphlet. I have high expectations for them, they are being left in good hands though. I hope that something great comes out of this awesome experience.Well thanks again for all you do. I will see you......on Monday. Love you!

Well that basically sums it all up. I am off to Freeport, Bahamas. So sick!!! I am very excited. I fly out on Thursday July 31, 2014. It will be an amazing experience. Other than that this week has been quite the week. We have been looking forward too and hoping to be baptising JR today, and we are. At 6 p.m. tonight I will be dunking the 18 year old who is preparing to go on a mission. This will be the 4th baptism off of one referral ayouth gave us just over 7 months ago. The youth really drive this branch. If you think that you can't share the gospel think again. God is the one who decides if it is someone's turn to hear the gospel, share and let him do the rest.
   Something else that I should mention is that Elder Nelson left to see his family today. Elder when you read this know that I was the first to email you when you got home :) Now touch the dream of playing college ball!!!! He is a dear friend and a hero to me. Elder Nelson served 2 complete years and certainly gave his all. He will be missed, even to the point of tears, but the effect he had on the mission field and the people of Jamaica. Love you Scooter!
   Well that sums it up this week. Love you all!

Paperwprk passed!! 7-19-14

   Well this last time we went we retained 3 of the basketball guys. Plus we had 2 show up after we finished. It was another wonderfully powerful lesson. We felt prompted to teach on the Plan of Salvation and come to find out that one of the Brothers we were teaching just lost his grandma, he was very close. That is the Spirit in action for you. Man, without the Spirit this work truly is impossible. We are supposed to teach them later today but, one of the is out of town so I will certainly keep you posted.
   This last week there isn't much to tell about. We had a lot of fun with Cesear, also he tired us out. The 12+ hour drive all around the island was taxing on me, but all seems to be better now. The office is finally where is needs to be and I am happy to say that I have given it my all. Whether I stay or I go I know that if I were to relive the last 6 months that I wouldn't do anything different. It is funny, 6 months ago I had revelation on a few things that needed to happen here in the office as well as in our area and branch. Over the course of the last 6 months all have been accomplished. These last 2 transfers in particular have made me stretch a lot. I have grown a lot as well.
   Boy do I love this place, it will forever be etched upon my heart. Other than Cesear coming, not much else is worth reporting. The area is up and running, there is still so much to do in the area but I suppose that is how you want an area to be always having more to be done in it. We have been finding people to teach, teaching people, and helping less actives come back. Nothing compares to the joy I feel when someone finally decides to trust God. It is spectacular. Well we are just preparing for transfers, everything is in order and should go, once again, smoothly. Thanks again for all you do. Love you.
   Not a whole lot to talk about this week. We had Cesear Rosario come. On thursday we drove the whole island of Jamaica looking at all the cars. What a trip! It was beautiful especially since we took some of the ways that most people don't take, simply stunning. The drive was very taxing on my body though, I guess any time you drive 12+ hours will simply take it out of you. Overall it was a good experience. Cesear was especially pleased with how all the paperwork was done, he said "this is the best mission with all the papers and filings. Your two elders are very good, very good." (he is still learning english)
   Elder Allen, I got him talking on video so we can see if you understand him when we get home okay? Cool, yep, the area is still going very well! There is simply too much to do in my area and not enough time to do it. I wish I had more time to teach, soon come. Damain and his family are almost ready for marriage. We found out some details that the marriage certificate isn't as much as we once thought. I sure hope I get to see them get married before I leave! That would be just treat for me. Keep in your prayers Rohan. Rohan or JR is supposed to be baptised this next week. Pray that he will endure to the end, pray that he will have the desire to read from
the Book of Mormon daily. I know that God will answer your prayers in splendid ways. I see them answered on a daily basis. That is pretty much it for me this week. I love you all. Have a wonderful week!

Elder Henderson

Dirty basketball and Discussions 7-12-14

   The time seems to slip by faster and faster. Boy I am not sure where to start.....I guess I will start with an amazing experience we just had. On Tuesday Elder Martin and I had some appointments fall through, unfortunately we called everyone and no one was available so we decided to go street contacting. As we were driving to the point we agreed on we saw a huge group of people gathered around watching some guys playing some basketball. Being very interested because we were in the heart of the ghetto I pulled over and we got out. Elder Martin found someone to talk to who was watching the game, and I decided to go over to some of the players who were sitting watching waiting for their turn. I started talking to one by the name of Shaggy (I can't remember his real name right now.), and in the spur of the moment decided to challenge their best 3 basketball players to a match of 3 v 3 game the next day at 5:30 (if we win we got to teach all of them, if we lose I had to buy them a soda); well, everyone who was watching, basically the whole community laughed me to scorn. Even so we took off. The next day we called the zone leaders to come be on my team and play, for their dinner break, to which the readily agreed. At 5:30 we started, it was street ball so there were no fouls (we got the whole thing on video if you want to watch) and the other team was not going to let some white dudes just show them up. So, once they found out that were actually decent they started playing dirty. Long story short, we won by 2; 31-29. Everyone blew up when we won, haha it was awesome. Most importantly I think is we gained their respect as well as everyone who watched. Well, the second part of the story is that we went back today to teach them, and wow.....what a powerful lesson. Every single one of those players opened up, the Spirit was strong and many people joined in for the lesson. I just can't believe what a powerful experience we just had. Not only was the Spirit present but every single person there opened up, and shared some of their deeper feelings, that was something I didn't expect. 

   In the middle of the lesson, some man came up to us and started telling us there was no God. What is even better is the ball player who, didn't believe there was a God confounded him. God uses many different ways in silencing the wicked. At the end of the lesson, they all jumped and asked us when we would come back to teach them more. They all agreed to pray and ask god if we were telling the truth, as well as read the plan of salvation. We shared with the man who didn't believe in God, the story of Ammon. He was touched, I could see it in his eyes. He very solemnly said that he would try it for himself and see if he got the same feelings he had when we were teaching him. I just wish you were there. I learned that God uses our talents to bring forth his work, even with a silly game of basketball. 

   Everything else is still going. The office is running smoothly again and we are finishing up everything, just in time too with Cesar coming this week. We will see how that goes. Elder Martin is doing better and better everyday. He is taking the lead more and more, he knows what is going on here in the office. He is an amazing Elder. 

   Well that is it for this letter. I love you!

Fear Not! 7-5-14

   Well well well, I can't believe that summer is in full swing! Well comparatively, it is always a consistent 88 degrees here with sunshine. So, I hope you all are enjoying the warm weather that I have had the last year. I decided I'd send some up to you, you're welcome ;) By the way I hope everyone is enjoying Bear Lake. I remember last year, you read the missionary letters to everyone so I will write accordingly. 

   This week was a difficult week, yet one that I am glad I went through. It was difficult because we had to finish up all the paperwork and other stuff for the new cars. I never would have guessed that there would be so much work, but hey there have been life lessons learned. For example, I am getting a taste of what it is like to juggle a job and a church calling. It literally take all of your time, no wonder that we don't have time to waste. Along with all this car things going on we are also supposed to prepare for the area general manager for the vehicles. His name is Cesar Rosario and he decided two days ago that he is coming to Jamaica for 3 days to train Elder Martin and I how to do our job. President has asked that we spend all our time with him. I wish we had more time to teach but, what ever the Lord asks of me I will do. For I know that when we do that, no matter what the cost it will always turn out for the better. 

   Other than all of the office stuff we had a baptism on Tuesday for Sister Paulette Bailey Campbell (on her birthday the 1st). (By the way one of the pics below is where we teach her and her baptism.) What a wonderful experience. I wish I could share in words the extreme joy that it brings to my heart to see that light, even the light of Jesus Christ, enter a person. You can see it in their eyes, and their countenance. And in that moment when you see that fire start to burn from within, there have been moments when I have heard this, the angles in heaven rejoice literally. I challenge all of you within the sound of my email, (please use a stage voice when reading that) to invite someone anyone, perhaps a friend to come and partake of this joy, this happiness, this redeeming love. And watch for yourselves and see the same things I see everyday first hand, you won't regret it. 

I was reading in Galatians chapter 6 the other day verses 7-9. Which reads "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for  whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." What is it that you are sowing? Are you sowing of the Spirit? I was asked the other day if we can choose our consequences and after thinking for a minute I came to the conclusion that yes you can choose them. Only in this light though, you may choose what you want your consequences to be by choosing the correct action that leads to that consequence. Is that not exactly what this scripture is stating? As I look around the world with a new perspective on life I see that everyone wants something now! I want to be fit now! I want to loose weight now! I want to be spiritual now! I want an Xbox now! And it is  this attitude that is so prevalent that scares me. "We should never sacrifice what we want most for what we want now." (Elder Holland while he was here in Jamaica). I invite all of you, I implore all of you to take a moment to think what you want to reap? What is it that you want most in your life? Write this answer down somewhere where you will see it everyday. Keep it safe guarded in your heart and never forget that. Then, look at the choices you need to make, the seeds you need to sow to obtain that wonderful desire within your heart. You have the power to make it become a reality! Because you are powerful, and you have the most powerful being in the universe, the one who created all, is on your side. Isaiah 41:10 "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Fear not. 

   I bear you my witness that we should not fear only believe. I have walked down some of the most dangerous streets in the world and I have felt no fear for I can feel the presance of the Lord around me. He is there, he does care, he is guiding your life. Turn your life over to him and let him make you more than you could ever be. If you want better desires then give your desires to God and he will make better desires for you, even the best desires you can have, after all he is God isn't he? I know that God is ever mindful of your situation what ever it might be. I have been working with people who are on the brink of destruction. No food, no job, no way to survive. Yet God feeds them, just like he promises in Matt 6:24-34. Not only does he do so but he prospers them as they obey his commandments as he promises in Alma 36:1, 30. God is God he can do all, believe it. I love this gospel. I love seeing this gospel bless others. It is truly amazing. I love you all and I hope that you all have a wonderful Bear Lake experience! In the name of the almighty God, my Lord, Savior and Redeemer, even Jesus Christ, Amen.

Elder Henderson

Sister Campbell Baptised!! 7-5-14

   This week was amazing! We watched, once again, another one of God's children take a step toward home. Sister Campbell was baptised on Tuesday, and boy oh boy what a treat that was. On her birthday as well! I can't think of a better birthday present, can you? The area in all is doing very well especially since we don't have as much time as we would normally, with the new cars and Caesar and all. I sure hope we will have time to teach while Caesar is here. We have had several less actives become active: Demain, Terrisa, Sister Grant, and there are others who are right there on the border.President Brown told us recently that we needed to drop Demain, When went to drop him though, the first thing that exited his mouth, before we said anything is, "Elders it is time I come back. After all the studying you have put me through it has helped me see that I am the one in the way of my own progression not anyone else." 

   Since that point in time Demain and his family have come back to activity. They are working now to become married. It is funny they are out of the job, both of them (I think that is part of the reason they were humbled) but even so we had them get a can and told them to pick up the dollars they saw laying on the ground when they would walk from place to place. That that jar was not to be touched no matter what, and I am happy to report that they haven't touched the jar even though they are in a serious financial struggle. They have been faithful and have kept picking up dollars, one by one. All in all, after Demain said those words the Spirit hit us both very strongly saying to stay with him a little longer. And I am glad we have, he is turning his life around, and his families. The Lord is blessing him, I am grateful that I can watch it first hand. The Lord is very merciful to everyone.

   Well we are finishing up the last details of us buying the new trucks. I can't tell you what a relief it will be to finally have those things done. I had no idea the kind of paperwork, and work all around, it takes to get new vehicles. At least I know now, something to help me in the future. We are now in full preparation for Caesar's arrival. I am not sure what to expect, I am excited and nervous. I am excited because it is all ways fun to learn more about our job as office elders, and more about cars in general. I am nervous because I am worried we did something wrong with the files and we will have to do it all over again. I really really really don't want to do all that work over again, but we have prepared the best we can so now we must just wait and see. 

   Elder Hall seems to be putting a working in the office. He knows what he is doing. He is changing things around and making the expenses go down, it is actually really interesting to hear how he thinks I will certainly be applying the principles he is teaching me about business. 

   Elder Martin and I are still just peachy. For real though, we are very good friends. We get along with one another, we teach well, we work well, the whole 9 yards. He is a great elder, an amazing one. I have a lot of respect and admiration for him and all he does. It has been fun to see his gradual progression since day one of getting here to the office. Especially his memory is improving! 

   Over all the work is going forth. I love being apart of it! Even in the hard times I still can find joy in watching that light grow in others eyes. I do sometimes struggle to see if I am growing though. Do you think I am growing? I think I am but, I grow in such small intervals I just don't see it because I am always around myself. I give my all everyday and I have from day one. I really do love this work and I am grateful for the chance to serve here in the office. 

Elder Henderson

Lots of Progress 6-28-14

Man, where do I start with this week?! I guess I will start with Sunday. Sunday, Elder Martin and I walked to church with Sister Paulett Bailey Campbell, Demain, Terrisa, and Ja (3 year old boy of Demain and Terrisa). But get this Sister Campbell 2 days earlier had a heart attack! And she still walked the hour and a half to church. That is simply faith, I wish others could act in such faith as her she is truly coming to understand the power that we receive from the atonement when we ask for it. The best part about her coming to church is the fact that she felt the spirit so strongly, she couldn't stop smiling. Man she is just so awesome! Demain and his family (Terrisa and Ja) also had a wonderful experience. The best part about it that they are finally active! On top of that they were in the worst of circumstances and to watch them come out of those circumstances on by the way of God's ever merciful hand is just amazing. We went by to speak with him and his family and he was just so grateful for everything, especially us (I don't know why we didn't do anything). And now he is coming back this Sunday as well. Oh boy that was fun!

   Well for the rest of the week I have been busier than I have ever been! We have been getting out later than I ever have before here in the office because of all the paperwork for the new vehicles. I am pretty sure that is a huge reason that I have been sent here to the office. We order and sorted files of past accident (which we are still doing), old truck documents and such. I spent a whole 12-14 hours yesterday alone doing that......and I am not quite 1/2 way done! Past office Elders just threw papers in the wrong files and such it is a pain in the butt! But yeah that is what my week has been so far. 

   Oh, funny story for everyone: Elder and Sister Hall (this new office couple) took us to dinner at a fancy chinese restaurant. While we were there Elder Hall said "okay everyone get one thing and we will just share and try a couple of things" Well long story short Sister Hall kept ordering and ordering saying "The Elders need to take something home...." I felt so bad. I didn't want to cause a pain to Elder Hall but his face was so funny! Later in the conversation Sister Hall started talking about how she just loves the ATM. "You just put in a plastic card and out pops a whole heap of cash! I just love it it never runs out of money...." I thought Elder Hall's first face was funny but the one after she said that I almost died of laughing! Oh man I felt so bad for that amazing Elder. I love those two.

   Well we are also saying goodbye to some of my favorite people ever. The Mortenson's (the old office couple) leave tomorrow. And you know they have become really good friends, teachers, and like mission parents to me. Man I am going to miss them, but change is put to us so we can grow, even if I don't want too sometimes. I will miss them.

   I thank you all for the emails! They are a blast to read and very uplifting when I am struggling. Thank you. Grandpa I love you! Grandma I love you too! Mom and Dad I love and admire you both. Carter I hope you enjoy your first date.....weird I am old. Joshua I can't wait to hear more about all of your adventures you are amazing keep it up! You and I are the best of friends and I love you will all my heart and soul. Nikayle you are simply amazing. I want to be like you on day. Siri you make me smile everyday when I look at your picture you drew me thanks! I love you. Brixen I can't wait till we can catch some more ducks before I enter the MTC.....I love you too miss beautiful. Keep your heads up time will pass and the things will become better I promise they always do. Hold on with all you have to that iron rod. Hello, and thanks for the letter Aunt Carolyn and Grandma.

Elder Henderson

P.S.Mom I saw this spider come inside my house last night.......I tripped out. I was a bit nervous because I think they are poisonous but I can't remember. Either way I smashed it with my shoe. Love you.

WOW. 6-14-14

My letter to President Brown this week:

Wow. I don't know if I can say more about this week than that. The feelings that I felt this last weekend are indescribable. Those feeling shall never be forgotten, feelings of immense joy, that God's kingdom is finally established here in Jamaica, feelings of peace for the future, I also got a very distinct impression that there were a multitude of people on the other side of the veil that were present as well. I recorded this in my journal " (Sunday 8, June, 2014) As I sat back and listened to the choir sing the closing hymn, I closed my eyes to enjoy the moment, and as I did it was as though I heard many more saints singing than those present or on the screen. Although I didn't see those extra voices when I opened my eyes...." God is pleased with the work that has gone on here, but there is yet more to do far more to do. We shall not stop until every person here has heard the Redeemers message to all the world. I have been excited to note, as well, that all the members in our branch are stepping up. Especially in the youth of the branch. In the last week, the youth have given us around 5 people to teach of their friends and committed one of them to be baptized before we ever even spoke to the person!!! (Yes he accepted for July 13). I was in a stupor when we received this amazing and glorious news. So, you can be assured that people are finally seeing the full picture, but there is still work that needs to be done in helping the members see exactly how they should go about doing things. I am even more excited for the future because I know that the future hold everything for us, we shall not look back but continue onward, ever onward. Thanks again for all you do. You are the best.

   As for the office everything is finally getting just about done....until next transfer but, hey that's how it goes! Elder Martin and I  are still getting along like the best of friends. I really love my companion. He is also getting a grasp on everything that is expected of him here, what is going on, and where things are located in Kingston. I am pleased with his progress to date. Yesterday while I was working on sending a couple of things to the insurance company, Elder Martin found some papers in the cabinet that really is going to help the work around here go smoother. Papers that I didn't even know existed. Just wait until our next vehicle coordination meeting! I think you will be happy. But overall everything is going smoothly. We are set and ready for transfers. Is there anything else we can do? Is there anything you feel like we need to change? Is there anything you have noticed that I need to change personally? I am doing my best to fix and work on my weaknesses as well as my strengths everyday, I know that the Lord is pleased with my progress to date but expects me to continue. I love you President, see you Monday.

I thought I would start off with that. I can't explain how I feel much more than that. This week was truly amazing! I loved every moment of it. I even got to shake Elder Holland's hand, that was super fun. I had to push my companion to the door immediately after the prayer ended because I knew they would try to get out of there asap. But we got there in time. Let's just say that Elder Holland is much shorter than I, much much - like 6 inches or more. I always thought he was a huge man. Weird. Anyway I hope you all had a fantastic week! I love you all.

Elder Henderson

 p.s. Mom I took videos instead of pics so those will be coming in the weeks to come. Love you!

The TIme Has Come! 6-7-14

Well that time has come for the apostle of the Lord to make the first stake here on Jam rock! I can honestly say that this last week has been one of the longest weeks of my mission, as I had to wait a whole week for Elder Holland to step foot in Jamaica. Man. But he is finally here!!!! WAHOOO!!!!!!! Elder Martin and I are headed to the adult session tonight at 7 p.m. I am a little more than excited and ecstatic. What is even better is that today is our p-day and we will be showing up pretty early so we can FINALLY shake his hand. As excited as I am though it doesn't compare with how excited the Jamaicans are. They have toiled way longer than I and have put many petitions unto the Lord for this day. President Brown will cry anytime he mentions that there will be a stake here, even in his prayers. (I may cry a bit too....but no one sees it.) The Lord's work is moving forward, ever onward. 

   There has been a lot of work that has gone on here in the office the last few weeks, a whole heap a stuff! We haven't been out teaching like we normally would be at 2:30 but we are pulling out later because of the stuff we have been asked to complete. The problem is that with the buying of the new vehicles we will have even more paperwork to do, which means that we will not be slowing down the office work any time soon. But if that is what the Lord wants me to do, I'll do it. God will shall be done. 

   We got to do something really cool this week! I will write my journal entry for the day:

6/4/2014      (Assistant Assassins)

   As you can see we put into play our plan today. We woke up at 5:15 to make it over to the Ap's house. We parked down a street so we could see them leave for basketball, and once they did we jumped out and ran a .5 a block to their house so they wouldn't see our car on the way back. We used the Ap's keys we took from their car yesterday, to break into their house. Once we did, we cooked them breakfust borritos and kept watch for them to return. When the AP's returned they opened the door (which we locked so they wouldn't know we were there), Elder Bateman froze as he saw us, and raised his hand to strike us (he thought we were thieves) then ran out. Elder Martin, Dawkins, Campbell and I then chased and ambushed them with a whole heap of water and retreated in to the house, but we were followed and the AP's soaked us with water as well soaking the house. It was a blast...."

I really love those Elders, we have way too much fun together. Mom I recorded our plan, so i will send it to you soon. :)

  

   Later we had a very spiritually powerful lesson with the Simpson family. When we went over there there was a cousin who was present. We asked if she would like to join the lesson to which she promptly said yes. As we said the prayer the Spirit immediately came in (you know that when that happens it will be a powerful lesson!). We started to talk about why we need to repent. As the lesson went along this girl, aka Shaundiena, started asking about how we learned all of this, and where she could learn about it. The Spirit prompted us to change the lesson plan and we went right into the restoration. Diena asked many questions! She was engaged in every way, vocally, mentally, and her body language showed it. At the end of the lesson we gave her a restoration pamphlet and she said that wasnt' enough. So, we gave her 5 restoration pamphlet and she said it was a start. She wanted to give them all to her friends and family. Long story short we came back the next day and she had read the whole thing, prayed about it, and was answering the questions in the back of the book!!! You very seldom get people like that who will put forth the effort in that way, especially in this culture. I thank God for answering my prayers. I have prayed for a long time for us to meet someone who is prepared to be baptised. God a God.

   Well that is all today. Oh! ELDER NATHAN BOYD ALLEN would you please answer me. Did you get that letter? I wish I had time to tell you all more. Maybe I will ship this journal home so Mom can put it all on the blog. (I think this is my 3 journal. I have yet to miss a day). By the way I have gotten may questions about the pic of me on the spire on the church. We were cleaning the roof of the church that is why I was up there. It was a project the whole branch was doing. I love you all! 

Elder Henderson

Last Week without a Stake!!!! 5-31-14

Man this transfer has yet to slow down!!!!! Usually in the past 2 transfers, here in the office, things slow down. We don't have to take many trips around the island, or really anything too pressing, but this week we had to drive a total of 20 some odd hours as we took a trip to Ochi and a trip to Junction to fix the sisters' trucks because they don't know how to do it i guess. It was a lot of fun but we didn't have much time to teach. I wish we had more time to teach because I love watching peoples eyes as they glow right when they understand something, oh well.......

   So, I will start off by telling you a funny story we had yesterday. Elder Martin and I got a call from the Hopeton sisters last night, explaining to us that their light was not working. (FYI that is over 2 hours away from where we live). After a good 15 minute conversation the sisters finally asked if we could come help them in this dire circumstance...Personally I couldn't believe the request because all that needed to be done was change a light bulb. After recovering from my initial shock we kindly explained that to fix the situation they needed to 1. purchase a new light bulb at any store. 2. come back to apartment with light bulb. 3. turn light off so that it will not burn you, and use a towel just in case to unscrew light bulb. 4. replace old light bulb with new light bulb. 5 turn on switch. 6. record your experience in your journal so that when you have another dire circumstance you can look back at your notes and be able to change another light bulb. Never thought I would run into that one. haha. At least they learned for the future. Once this situation was taken care of we immediately got another phone call from some more sisters telling us that they had conveniently locked their keys in their car. (FYI they are 1.5 hours away from where we live) They wanted us to come up there and help them out of their situation. Well, we told them to call a lock smith to help them out. 10 minutes later they were in their car. Man we work miracles in the office!!!!!! :D

   Well this is it! Last week without a stake. Next week when I email you all it will literally be just hours before Jamaica receives their first stake!!!!!!!! So cool! i am thankful for all of your prayers, they mean a lot to me! Joshua, did you make the soccer team? Nikayla how is the summer going? Siri any fun lemonade stands recently? Brixen did you figure out who was grandpa? Carter how is the shooting going? Mom thanks for all you do, you are truly the best. Dad thanks for the thoughts I really appreciate them. They help me to think and understand more fully. Elder Allen, are you dead?!?!? I haven't heard from you in a while? Did you receive my letter? Until next week, I love you all.

Elder Henderson

A Week to Remember 5-17-14

Sorry I don't have much time to type this week. So, I'll send a whole bunch of Pics. 

This week was one of the most spiritual weeks of my life. I had the chance to go and teach all the missionaries about safety, more in specific patience. I am so grateful that the Spirit was present, he did all the teaching and the presentation because of it turned out really well! But more than that the time Elder Martin and I got to drive all over the island we got the chance to talk, which in a very short time brought us close together making it possible for us to teach really powerfully with the spirit. Team unity huh? It was fun to see all the beauty as well. Did anyone know this but I am on an island in the middle of the Caribbean! I think I saw Jack Sparrow this last week. 

   The lessons have been something else as well. We have met many people who seem to be very prepared, which always makes it easier to bring in the Spirit strongly. It has been fun to watch that with everything going on, even us losing two days of teaching because of the Zone Conferences, we are teaching more lessons than I ever have before in the office. I know that God is running this work, he is preforming miracles just look at our area now. It seems to be coming to life with new people to teach and progressing investigators. Well I hope you all had a lovely Mother's day! I love you all!

Elder Henderson

These pics are at the beach this morning at 4:30.

New companion 5-10-14

   Transfers, aka the most stressful week.....every six weeks. Elder Martin is finally in the office! Nathan do you know a Austin Martin? He went to your school and he says he knows you and Gregg. But Elder Martin and I are getting along quite well as we both are learning what the heck is going on here in the office. 

   There isn't much to report on this week, just transfer stuff, but we did go on an amazing run this last Monday. Wow. We got up at 4:45 and drove to this narrow strip of land, the ocean is on both sides of us, and ran for a good 30 minutes. It was the funnest run I have ever been on. We watched the sun peak over the mountains and strike the turquoise water. There was a slight breeze that brought the sea smell into your nose as well, it was just a blast. And the worst part about it is I think I realized that I have gotten so used to being tired that 5 hours of sleep really didn't affect me. I am either on a mission or I am really old.

    I was reading this morning in Alma chapter 36, I was studying on how the Book of Mormon answers the questions of the soul (PMG). And as I was reading the intro to the section the word hope stood out to me for some reason. I just kind of put the idea to the side because I was studding for investigators, but as I started to read I was astounded by what I learned about hope.

   If you would like to open to Alma 36: 3. In this verse we learn why hope is so important "....whosoever shall put their trust (hope) in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day....." But what happens when we lose all hope? Well that very thing happened to Alma later in the chapter as he recounts this story. Verse 9-11 and 15. In these verses we learn that when all hope is lost that we lose the direction or foresight to put our labors or faith toward. And when that happens we are just wasting a lot of energy not going anywhere or accomplishing anything. When Alma loses that hope he doesn't know what to do, he just wants to be destroyed because he doesn't believe that he can become like God or even live with him. Now when we go into verse 17, Alma gets hope back almost instantly and thus shows the stark contrast between hopelessness and one who is full of hope. "....I remembered also to have heard my father prophesy unto the people concerning the coming of one Jesus Christ, a Son of God, to atone for the sings of the world. Now, as my mind caught hold upon this thought, I cried......." The moment Alma retains his hope in Christ all his energy (faith) and driving force (faith) was put into making this hope a reality. As Alma continues we see in verse 20 the kind of feelings  that go along with that hope. The scripture continues in verse 22: that Alma's hope grew even more when God showed him what he could become and as that happens his natural instinct in to invite others and give them the hope he has received. (verse 24 and 26). 

   What ever your circumstance there is hope. You have more potential than you realize! And if you don't believe so then you don't have a hope in Christ and I would invite you to spend some time on your knees begging with the all mighty God to give you a vision of what you can be. I promise you if you do that God will give you a glimpse and when you receive that you will start to see your actions fulfill that foresight/hope that you have and you will once again feel those feelings of love, joy, peace, etc. I promise.

    Well, that is my thought for you today. It is an interesting chapter. There are many more things I wish to share with you all that I have learned in this chapter but I don't have time so this will suffice. I love you all. Happy Mother's DAY! 

Elder Henderson