October 21, 2012

Hello again. Time goes so fast when working for the Lord. We continue to marvel at the changes in those that are attending our Daily Dose classes. Those that were once reserve, shy and even non-committal to us are now very friendly, supportive and eager to learn more. Recently in one of the classes that we teach in someone's home there were five people in attendance and they were all non-members of our faith. We were teaching the subject on how to give a prayer. Again, we are talking about people who speak limited English and haven't been very religious in their lives. At the conclusion we asked if anyone would give the closing prayer, and one fellow said he would, and in his simple prayer he stated how grateful he was for us to teach him English. A simple prayer but very much from the heart. Today that man and his wife and children showed up at church today and attended all the meetings! What a joy to see how much he has changed. Then earlier this week we met in another person's home for an evening meal. He had invited some non-member friends over to fellowship with and talk about having The Lord in all of our lives. One of those individuals showed up at church today also! The Spanish, Chinese and Mien groups we helped set up in Daily Dose are going well now also.

Last Friday night Sherrie and I needed a little more culture in our lives so we attended the Sacramento Ballet Company's performance of Romeo and Juliet. It even brought tears to old John's eyes, or was that from me imagining the pain in my toes if I was standing on them in ballet shoes!! Tonight the Fall rainy season is starting. It hasn't rained here since last February, but then that's why everything is connected to a sprinkler system!

We have several friends back in Jefferson City who are recovering from painful surgeries or have other trials in their lives right now. Our hearts in prayers go out to them all.

Until next time,

Elder (John) Downs