Monday, July 12, 2021

Letters From My Parents

Hello Dear Elder Dudley!!!


Happy last day of your full-time mission! You have served with your whole heart and have given your all to share the wonderful message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.


We know you’ll be sad to leave your work as a full-time missionary, but we also know that the Lord has great things in store for you as you enter this next chapter of your life. You’ll be happy as you serve others and grow in so many additional areas in your life.


We are praying for your safety and peacefulness of spirit as you travel home today. I hope you’ll find comfort in the following verses:


D&C 78:17-19
Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye are little children, and ye have not as yet understood how great blessings the Father hath in his own hands and prepared for you; And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours, and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours. And he who receives all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more.


We love you more than you can imagine.


Love always…and see you soon!!!
Momma
xoxoxo
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Dear Elder Dudley,


My heart fills with joy for you as you transition into the next opportunity of discipleship of Jesus Christ.  We have prayed since you were a young boy that you would be blessed with remarkable experiences as a full-time missionary.  We prayed for a valiant trainer, great teaching experiences, wonderful mission president couples, and more.  Heavenly Father has answered our prayers beyond our greatest hopes. 


You have heard me say often to you as you were growing up that I hoped and expected you to not be just a good missionary but a great missionary.  Oh, Elder Dudley, you are so much more than a great missionary!  Your faith, humility, dedication, discipline, hard work, singular focus, meekness and so much more have taught me beyond measure how a true disciple of Jesus Christ loves Him and serves Him.  You represent everything that is good and great about serving the Lord as a full-time missionary.  I honor you for your wonderful service.


As you complete this formal assignment as a full-time missionary, it is now your opportunity and responsibility to make sure this legacy of discipleship blesses your family - those you know now but more importantly those who will be blessed to be your posterity.  Continue following the covenant path, seek to hear His voice always through personal prayers, scripture study, and covenant keeping, and your legacy of discipleship - that you served and how you served - will bless you and your family for generations to come.  The blessings of your missionary service are just beginning.


For now, know how much true joy you have given mom and me.  You are our friend, our example, and our hero in every way.  We will continue to pray for your happiness and your eternal progress in the gospel of Jesus Christ.  We will continue to support and love you and celebrate every triumph and support in every challenge.  We love you!


Love,
Dad