I can't believe that this time has come! Today will be my last weekly email as a full time missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints! These past two years have been the most spiritually uplifting time of my life. There have been a lot of trials and heartaches but the Lord has been able to show forth His love and power within my mission and has helped me so much. I'm eternally grateful for the opportunity I've had to serve our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.
We got to do a lot of things this last week I felt were like pre pandemic...
I was able to go on exchanges with Elder Brown in his area in Compton. Compton is such an amazing place and has a lot of prepared souls to receive the gospel in their lives. We were able to go street contacting at the projects and talk to many different people. It was motivating to talk to more random people on the street about Jesus Christ.
We spoke with this one guy who was a hard-core atheist. He wasn't shy about sharing his beliefs. It saddened my heart as he told us that he knew he wouldn't see his son who has passed away. He knew he wasn't going to see any of his loved ones who have also passed away. Elder Brown and I talked to each other after that. We were so grateful to know of the Plan of Salvation. Because Heavenly Father loves us we will see all our family again and as we trust in His plan we will become happy! Overall it was a great exchange!
Throughout the week we were able to do some lessons with our friends either at the church or at their homes. My last week here is when most of the restrictions were getting lifted including the mask mandate! I wish this would've been lifted early but I'm glad we were able to meet with people in their houses and in the church building for at least a week.
I've really enjoyed serving in the Centinela 1st ward. The people I've met are amazing and I'm so happy I was able to share my testimony with them. I will miss everyone I've met on my mission. The people and this area will always have a place in my heart.
During a Visitors Center tour this week we saw two guys walk in as Elder Christensen and I were leaving. One of them was pointing at me and I didn't think much of it. Then I saw the other guy who was behind him and I recognized them both immediately! They were some missionaries that served in the Philippines! One of them was my last companion before I returned to the U.S.. That was a blessing to see them! It helped me recognize that I've been able to serve around such amazing people. I've created a lot of friendships that I know I wouldn't have made if I wasn't on a mission!
I've loved my mission with my whole heart. Being able to testify of Jesus Christ every day has changed my life forever. Jesus Christ and His atonement has changed me into a better person and I know He's always going to help me even more after my mission.
I love you all and I'm so grateful for all your prayers and support. Going on a mission has been the best decision I've ever made in my entire life! I love Jesus Christ and I know He loves every single one of you. See you all soon!
Elder Espiritu
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