Days Never to be Forgotten

Dear Family and Loved Ones,

      Happy Easter!  We had a wonderful day here in Long Beach.  The weather was Spring-like, cool and overcast with a gentle sea breeze.  Our Sunday meetings were extra special, the music was outstanding (there is a lot of musical talent here), the talks were all centered on the Savior’s Atonement and Resurrection and the classes were also very uplifting.  It was a great way to spend Easter Sunday.

    We have been saving a leg of lamb that John hand delivered from Utah for our Easter lunch (thanks John and Dad). It was delicious.  Ben thought it was cruel to eat a cute little lamb for Easter.  We had a great visit around the dinner table about the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ and the symbolism of sacrificing a lamb for Passover.   I remember my Dad telling us he would often look for a male lamb, white and without blemish each Spring during lambing season.  It was rare, if not impossible to find a perfect lamb, one that would have qualified to be sacrificed.  He shared with us his tender feelings about the Savior, he knows, as do we, that there was no one else who was perfect enough to give his life for us.  He was the only one without blemish.  How grateful we are for His Atonement and Resurrection!

    Ted and I were able to spend three days in training meetings this week at the Stake Center in Irvine (about 25 minutes from Long Beach).  All of the Mission Presidents and their wives from California and Hawaii were gathered there. We were joined by our Area Seventies (including our dear friends the Trythalls).  Instruction was given by Elder Rasband, Elder Clayton, Elder Bowen, Elder Kearon, Elder Allen (new Area Seventy Authority) and their wives.  It was AMAZING!  It made me think of the words of Oliver Cowdery describing the time he spent with the Prophet Joseph Smith as, “days never to be forgotten”.  We were well fed, spiritually and physically!  Here are a few of the power statements from our Seminar:

 “The only way to get to eternal life is through the Atonement.”

“Choose to be chosen.”

“Covenants protect and strengthen us.”

“We need to help our missionaries become men and women who match our message.”

“Be the message.”

“Finding starts with Spirit guided planning.”

“Member missionary work doesn’t need to take more of our time.  We should invite friends and family to the Church activities we are already participating in.”

“Obedience brings blessings, exact obedience brings miracles.”

   
Spending time with these amazing leaders is so inspiring.  They are consecrated to building the Lord’s Kingdom and preparing the world for the Savior’s return.  We are so blessed to have a small part in this great work, our Father’s work.

   
We love you all and thank you for your faith and prayers!

The Long Beach Buberts