Just another day in Modesto 2nd Ward

Theres a saying that has been coined in this area, and that is "Just another day in Modesto 2nd ward". This quote is used quite often after something absolutely crazy and dramatic happens, which is typically a daily occurrence in this area. Some brief examples. About a week ago we visited one of our recent converts in Juvenile hall. The other day a man called the police on his 11 year old daughter (who is one of our investigators) because she refused to listen to him. 2 of some of the youth that we teach just found out their parents do meth. We just got one of our recent converts a bed cause he was sleeping on the floor. The list goes on and on, but I feel like the point has been made.

I have no doubt that all of these challenges and events that keep taking place are connected to the fact that this is the most productive area I've ever been in. The lord cannot bless us unless we are willing to make a little sacrifice, and what it boils down to is a question of priority. Even using the bathroom requires sacrifice (time and effort... lots of effort sometimes....) but we are more than willing to make that sacrifice cause its definitely better than the alternative (soiled drawers). God has promised us lots of blessings that are totally worth it, and we want those blessings, but we seem totally surprised and caught off guard when it comes time for the sacrifice, when bad things start happening. There are two certainties we should always expect. Expect trials, and expect the lord to act. These are almost always certainties. So I gladly welcome the trials that are coming our way, because I can already see the blessings taking place.

I love and miss you all!