The familiarity that Church brings for me is always comforting. There have only been a few Sundays where I've been caught off guard (like when my Uncle Luke was randomly called at Bishop) but the past Sacrament service in the Douglas, GA II ward was definitely on up there.
I might be a broken record, but here we go: Acey will become Elder Mizell extremely soon! 6 days from today, to be exact. What an exciting time in his life. There have been many trials that have popped up, there's been extra stress, but last Sunday was such a poignant moment for our family.
Acey's farewell address was given September 27th. Mama was in charge of arranging the speakers, though each had a similar topic. As I sat on the stand that morning I felt so at peace. This Sabbath morning was completely centered around my own family, and how the gospel of Jesus Christ had affected us.
It began when my father gave the opening prayer. I leaned over to see the Sacrament being blessed by Graham. I was asked to bare my testimony (which I focused on missionary work, including member missionaries). My youngest brother Granger then gave a talk, his shared the story of Sid Going (ironically a New Zealander) who was so devout and successful in his craft that he changed the day the league played Rugby. My mother was the second speaker, she read several letters from Listi who shared how missionary work changed her attitude and testimony. Then lastly Acey spoke. As nervous as he was, I could have burst when he bore his testimony. I can't wait for it to grow tenfold while he's gone. Then the meeting was closed when my Grandma Marilyn gave the benediction.
I missed Listi's farewell last year, there was too much going on. It was extremely special for me to 1) witness this Sacrament meeting and 2) be asked to be apart of it. As times are dwindling I'm trying to cherish all of these moments.
That meeting was one of the most Spiritual I have ever experienced. I felt the Holy Ghost as strong as ever when the congregation sung "Called To Serve" with such vigor. I am here to say that the Gospel changes lives! Jesus Christ is real! His word is true! And an 18 year old from a tiny little podunk town in Georgia is leaving to preach that in a far off country.
I can only imagine how proud Heavenly Father must be when missionaries leave in His name. I know that I'm beaming from ear to ear. I love my family more than life. And trust me, I'll be back to write up his leaving in just a few days!
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