01/31/2011

Hey everyone!

I had a pretty good week. I don't have much to say about it, but I have been thinking a lot about something. Elder Sedgwick and I were talking a few nights ago about songs that touch our hearts and we talked about a song specifically. I read the words and have been thinking about them for quite some time now. They really caused me to reflect on the gratitude I have for all the blessings I have in my life, especially my faith in Jesus Christ. I hope everyone enjoys it.

O Lord, My Redeemer

And the Roman soldiers laughed

When they saw their pris’ner stumble.

He did not revile them back

And wondering I asked, who was this man so humble?

And a woman at my side

Choked on her reply

Though she struggled not to weep, the tears poured down her cheek

Her heart breaking as she cried

O Lord, my redeemer, thou hast done so much for me

O Lord, my redeemer, all my love I give to thee

And the crowd went pushing on

I felt compelled to follow.

I knew that they were wrong, how they mocked him all along

Suddenly my heart felt hollow

For they nailed him to a tree

On a hill called Calvary

While I stood there filled with wonder, the heavens roared with thunder

And again I heard the plea

O Lord, my redeemer, thou hast done so much for me

O Lord, my redeemer, all my love I give to thee

I could not forget his face

As I wandered from that place

With the questions ever burning, I put myself to learning

And each answer came with grace

And I knelt in earnest prayer

His memory still there

And the more that I’d inquire, the hotter burned the fire

I found joy beyond compare

And the day turned into three

Morning found me in a garden

Where the gentle April breeze, returned me to my knees

Pleading for a pardon

And I can’t say when or why

I opened up my eyes

But His feet were there before me, His hands were opened o’er me

And His face I recognized.

O Lord, my redeemer, thou hast done so much for me

O Lord, my redeemer, all my love I give to thee

Love you all! Hope you have a good week.
--
Elder Cabrera

01/10/2011

Family,

What a cool week! On saturday Elder Sedgwick and I went to a dairy farm owned by some members of our ward and spent most of the day "de-horning" and branding cattle. So fun! Well, sort of. It was kind of crazy...but still lots of fun. I never knew cows, even little calves, were so strong. We had to wrestle one to the ground so we could put a bandage over a wound on it's leg and it was a beast! With jeans and flannel on and surrounded by cows and farm land only one thing was missing...Clint Eastwood.

Well, we have another baptism this coming Saturday! David is a stud!! He is so intuitive when it comes to recognizing the way the Holy Ghost works in directing him. And he's already read about half of the Book of Mormon. Elder sedgwick and I are way excited for this coming Saturday...it's going to be cool to see someone who has become such a good friend make the next big step in his life.

Not much more to say...I'm a little rushed so pardon the brevity (I think that's a word...right, Jared?).


Love YA"LL :)

01/03/2011

Dear Family,

Elder Sedgwick and I had an amazing week as we finished out 2010. We have both been so privileged to see several miracles come about here in Greeley and it seems that they just keep getting better and better. I feel so grateful to have this opportunity to be here at this time-I couldn't have asked for anything better. All the elements are in place: a stellar companion (red hair included), an awesome ward, great people, and lots and lots of opportunities to serve others. It can't be anymore ideal!

I sent some pictures along with this email. They're from this past Saturday, the first of January. Patty and Steven were both baptized and it was so cool to be a part of their service. The Spirit was so strong and there was a presence of peace that pervaded throughout the entire room as we watched each of them make a big step in their life to draw nearer to God. I love both of them so much and I felt the love that God had for them as I was with them before and after their baptism. Baptismal services are the best! They really make a me feel so much gratitude for what I am doing for others. I love being a missionary!!

I don't know if there is quite the right way to verbalize how I have been feeling lately. I could use some pretty good adjectives to describe it or maybe a metaphor or simile to try and illustrate it, but it is nearly impossible to put into words. I feel so incredible. I cannot stop smiling. I feel like I have only so much room in my heart and it is full to the brim and ready to burst with joy and love. How could I not share it with others rather than let it go to waste. What a wonderful blessing it has been to be able to serve the Lord. I wouldn't trade it for anything. Thank you-each of you, for your support. It means a lot to me. I see these blessings I am receiving as a gift intended just as much for you as they are for me. I hope you feel them too!

Love you all!