The Warnes in the Chile Rancagua Mission: Tender mercies

This week I wanted to start by thanking those who comment. This is embarrassing but I haven’t figured out how to respond to them privately so I’m doing it now—thanks!

I would like to share with you a few thoughts from the talk I gave at the Christmas zone conferences, as well as the challenge I gave them. I based my talk on one by Elder David A. Bednar called “The Tender Mercies of the Lord”. It is a great talk and well worth your time if you would care to read it.

Elder Bednar quotes part of a scripture, 1 Nephi 1:20, which talks about tender mercies and how the Lord is anxious to grant them. I gave some examples of tender mercies from my own life, for example, my calling before the mission was as Relief Society pianist which has been a huge blessing as I often play for various branches or baptisms. Another example is the help I have had in learning Spanish; even though it still isn’t great, I am way better than I was when we came to Chile.

Then I asked the missionaries to volunteer examples from their own lives or missions and it was wonderful to hear them. A few talked about their companions and how blessed they feel to have had them. Others mentioned events that helped them with an investigator or other teaching opportunities.

At the end I asked the missionaries to find ways to be a tender mercy for someone during this holiday season as they listen to the Spirit to know what they should do. I know they are dedicated to serving every day, but I know also that they will have a memorable Christmas time as they find special ways to serve their companions, investigators, recent converts and the members. I’d like to leave you with that same challenge: you too can make a difference this season. It doesn’t take money or need to be complicated but you can be a tender mercy for someone in your life.