August 5, 2010

Hello Everyone!

      Today is my first prep. day so it's the first chance I've had to send out an e-mail. I'm absolutely loving the MTC. There is such a special spirit here, it most closely resembles the spirit felt within the walls of the Temple. The first week has gone perfectly smooth and I haven't had any trouble adjusting to life in the MTC. The food just plain rocks. Luckily for me, I have the opportunity to work out almost every day, which I gladly take advantage of in attempts to offset the intake of alarming quantities of MTC food. I have an awesome district and Elder Johnson is a better companion than I could ever have picked for myself.

      I had the wonderful opportunity to go through a session in the recently re-opened Provo Temple this morning. It was exactly the awesome experience that I have come to expect from going to the Temple. I've grown so much in such a short amount of time, it is amazing to me.I've developed such a stronger testimony already, and I have grown so much closer to the Savior. I get more out of my study than ever before, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ has come alive for me in a way I never knew was possible. It never ceases to amaze me how much the Lord is willing to bless us if we but follow simple commandments.

      As much as I love being here at the MTC, I am quite anxious to get out to the mission field. I'm so excited to get involved the work I can hardly stand it.The time has passed at a blistering pace, but at the same time, each day is so full that it feels as though it goes on forever. At times it is becoming very hard to tell one day from the next! I feel as though I just got here, and already my short stay at the MTC is more than 1/3 completed. Every day brings a new realization and better understanding of the sacred significance of my calling as a missionary and of the mantle that accompanies that calling.

      I have thoroughly enjoyed all the letters and goodies from everyone and want to express my love and appreciation to each of you for your kind words and especially for your prayers. I look forward to hearing more from each of you. I pray that you all remain safe and well as you strive to invite others to come unto Christ through your faithful examples of those living the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. Be good and stay safe!

Love,

Elder Michael Preston Lyman