Monday, March 1st

Hello to my dear family, and friends.

First off, this week, I hit my sister mark... (18 months as a missionary). It's amazing how the time continues to fly.

Things are going really well here in Zapata. Yesterday we had 25 people at church. We had 2 investigators there...well, 4, but we can't count two of them because we don't have a return appointment set. It's been amazing to see the hand of the Lord. As we do our best, he will, and does prepare the hearts of the people to receive our message.

Just last night, we found an amazing family. Father, Mother, and 3 kids. They invited us right in, and we had an amazing lesson. Unfortunately, the husband works on the oil rigs right outside of Laredo, and so he's gone every other week. We will continue to try to visit with the rest of the family while he's gone.

So, in two weeks, March 14th, we should be having a baptism. Things are still lined up, and moving along really well. She came to church again yesterday. It was so great to see them.
One of the less-actives we're working with is a part-member family. His wife is not a member. Well, they've now been to church two weeks in a row. It's been so much fun to see them there, and to see their excitement about church. They called us on Sunday morning and let us know that they were coming to church, "just so we wouldn't worry."

I continue to be tried and tested, but I continue to grow. I love this amazing opportunity that I have to be here in Zapata. The people are amazing, and it's really become one of my favorite areas.

I love the opportunity that I have to be here, and to work in the Lord's vineyard. My time is quickly passing. However, I am continuing to give it my all. I love you all, and hope that all continues to go well for each and every one of you.

Love,
Elder John