McClain Mission Part 2-Costa Rica

Homecoming Talk Elder McClain Easton 14/08/22 Prompt: Will you speak on how obedience brought you and those you taught closer to Christ? What do I want them to know? ● We come to be like the Savior by way of obedience. ● The Savior lives, leads his church, can transform us, and transformed me by way of obedience. I. Introduction A. Elder Easton B. The Costa Rica San Jose Oeste Mission y la misión de Bakersfield en California C. DO NOT SAY “I WAS ASKED TO SPEAK ABOUT...” II. First night of the mission A. I remember the first night of the mission as if it were yesterday. Upon arriving in Bakersfield, we walked out of the airport and saw the mission president. He took us back to the mission office, sat us down, and began the orientation. The first day of a mission is remarkably difficult from an emotional standpoint. Leaving the family behind, leaving home behind, and the unknown of the future makes it pretty hard to focus on what lies ahead. I clearly remember when the president changed...

Last one. Thanks to everyone who has been reading and keeping up with my missionary service over the last 2 years. It has been an incredible journey. Emotional to be leaving behind the people of Costa Rica. They will always have a special place in my heart. The Ticos have taught me to love what is most important in life, to be happy in any circumstances, and to make sacrifices to prioritize the gospel of Jesus Christ. Will always be grateful for them. In these past 2 years I have grown to know my savior in a way far more personal than before. I have learned that he lives because he walked with me, taught with me, contacted with me, and lifted me up in the most difficult of circumstances. I know he lives because he inspired the writing of the book of Mormon and because he appeared to the prophet Joseph Smith to bring his church once again to the earth. I know he lives because of the way he touched the Costa Ricans, and because of the way be touched me. Cannot believe it has come to a...

Happy Wednesday! Things have been great here as far as the missionary work goes. Aside from that it was one long week. Our preparation day got moved to today so we can go to the temple, and I never expected so much would happen in our 9 day week. Had a leadership conference last Wednesday. Special experience. Last one of the mission, and a super spiritual experience. Lots of trainings about focusing on our purpose and raising expectations. Good time to reflect on how I leave it all on the table in these last few days out here. Wednesday night headed on exchanges to heredia. Some members gave us a pretty traditional Costa Rican soup called Olla de carne. Usually all good. But just for a few more good stories to finish off the mission made me sick for days. Really the first time in the mission I had gotten sick. Made it so far but the luck ran out. Good weekend, gave a talk in church for the last time. Spoke about how there is so much more to being a faithful member of the church ...