MTC at Home

MTC at Home - Day #1


March 17th was the day that Jake was scheduled to leave for the South African MTC in Johannesburg. That didn't happen. COVID-19 happened instead. On March 13th we were informed that he would be doing "remote" MTC training and not going to South Africa, just yet. He was supposed to have his "farewell" talk on March 15th, but church was canceled and so he didn't have to speak. We had a get together anyway with a sanitation station and hopes of not spreading disease. So far, so good. On Monday, March 16th, South Africa revoked all Visa's for travelers from the United States, so we aren't sure what that means or how he will be issued a new one. To get that Visa he had to travel to LA and interview with the SA consulate, will he have to do that again? On March 17th he was set apart as a full-time missionary. On March 18th, 2020, he entered the MTC........at home, basically, he came downstairs. 

He had a free morning but then was in class for much of the day this afternoon. He's figuring out the schedule as he goes and has a "remote" companion for companion study and such. I think this is what his life is going to look like for the next several weeks. We're catching up on the BOM videos. His mom is his in-person companion and is definitely a sketchy missionary companion. I think the food is better than it would be in the real MTC. Just saying. 

The president of the U.S. announced that all gatherings over 10 should be canceled. Schools are closed for the next three weeks and many are working from home. We are in a state of Social Distancing. The dogs don't understand that concept. 

There was an earthquake in the Salt Lake area today. Angel Moroni on the SLC temple lost his trumpet. 

What does all this mean? I don't really know, but as I sit here listening (eavesdropping!) on the MTC that is happening in my dining room right now, what I do know is that our Heavenly Father is aware of us. He knows our struggles right now. That might be staying home to do your MTC learning, struggling to keep your business afloat while everyone is staying home, or just overcoming the fear that all this uncertainty is bringing. Whatever it is, he KNOWS us and he's there to comfort and help us. I'm listening to testimonies of missionaries whos mission experience is not what they expected and yet they are steadfast and strong. They are building their firm foundations. My favorite song - How Firm a Foundation. We need a firm foundation and testimony right now. Heavenly Father has got this. It's time we all trust Him. A message I need to hear right now.

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