Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Elder Joseph Spangler Returns

Elder Joseph Spangler, son of Jennifer and Frank Spangler, returned home last month from his Korea Seoul Mission.  Elder Spangler's family moved into our ward during his mission.


We were privileged to hear him speak to us for the first time on Sunday, the 11th, where we learned that not only was his mission, "the best two years", but the "most wonderful two years."

Elder Spangler spoke to us about the correlation between charity and missionary work. He taught that Charity it like the Swiss Army knife of the Gospel.  It gives us the ability to go, open the door and reach out to others.  He also gave several examples of how this happens throughout the scriptures and from his mission.

He taught from a message given by Elder C. Max Caldwell concerning Charity and the phrase, the "love of Christ" having several dimensions.
1.  Love for Christ. This is showing our love for Christ by looking forward to and attending our church meetings and desiring always to learn more of Him.
2.  Love from Christ.  This is the love that God shows us through the blessing of the Atonement and all other blessings we receive.
3.  Love like Christ.  This is when we work to help others achieve their love of Christ.  

We learned that Charity isn't only service.  Charity is patience, knowledge that helps others and Christlike attributes such as humility and diligence.

1 Peter 4:8 says, "And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves:  for charity shall cover the multitude of sins".  Elder Spangler pointed out that the JST for this scripture says, "for charity preventeth a multitude of sins". Not only is charity the key that builds the gospel but it helps prevent mishaps in the future.

Charity, the love for people, allows shy missionaries to open their mouths.  It prepares us to help our fellow brother.

Welcome Home and Well Done Elder Spangler!  We are grateful for your words and that you have returned home safely.  We are blessed to have you and your family in our ward.  


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