Inspirations Twofold.

Two truly amazing and inspiring things happened Sunday during services that made me contemplate the courage and determination some people have and also to humble me in a way that I didn't think possible. I left church feeling honored and unworthy of the amazing gifts I had been given.

As services started, I noticed Brother Gezzell escorting an elder woman slowly up the aisle to the front row. Her pace was slow and sometimes unsteady, but her determination was evident in every single step she took. When it came time for her to bear her testimony, she was helped slowly up to the podium where she spoke in a quiet, but strong voice. She explained that she had literally died six times. That is right, in the past she had flat lined more times than most people have gone to the hospital. She spoke of how each time she just wanted to give up and how she was just so tired and wanted to rest.

Then she spoke of how she was told again and again that it wasn't her time. While her heart wasn't beating, she heard that she still had much work to do before she rested. I personally cannot imagine the amount of faith and strength it must take to come back from what lies beyond 6 times. I cannot even begin to understand the devotion it must have taken for her to leave her Heavenly home and return to the world of man and pain. As she finished her Testimony and was helped back to the pews, all I felt was honored to have witnessed such a fantastic thing. I can only pray that I have that kind of faith and strength if I am ever faced with such trials.

After Services Bishop Harding took me to one side and asked me a question that I had been hoping to hear but wasn't expecting to be asked for several more months. He asked when I would like to be ordained into the Priesthood. I think I startled him when I said, “Now!” Still he smiled and went to gather my wife and all of those who would perform the service.

As we sat in that small room with my wife beside me and people I have only known a short time but who feel like old friends, I was struck with the realization of the honor and privilege being bestowed upon me. As Brother Snyder said the words that would change my life forever, all I could do was pray to Heavenly Father that I would be worthy of this honor.

Looking at all of the things that have happened to me, it is hard for me to fathom that it has only been a few short months since I began this Trek. Only three months or so since I questioned exactly what the heck I was doing and if I was doing the right thing. Now I stand with my Brothers and Sisters nervous still, but feeling the courage and strength I need to keep going forward. I thank God and all of those who have helped me find my way.

Amen