President's letter to missionaries- August 12, 2012

 Dear Elders and Sisters,

We are all familiar with the statement on page 2 of PMG which says, "As your understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ grows, your desire to share the gospel will increase."  This is just as true for us as it is for members and investigators.  We must constantly be deepening our understanding and appreciation for the Atonement of Jesus Christ.  As we do this we will have a greater desire to be a missionary and fulfill our purpose.  How can we increase our understanding and appreciation of the Atonement?
First, we can learn and study about the encompassing nature of the Atonement.  In your personal study this week I would encourage you to re-read your favorite passages about the Atonement.  Some of mine are 2 Ne 2, 2 Ne 9, Alma 7, D&C 19, Alma 34, Alma 42 and Alma 11.  Whatever your favorite passages are about the Atonement, please read them this week and ponder on the great power that is inherent in the Atonement.
Second, see the great changes that are occurring in your investigators and in your own life this week as you go about your teaching.  As people exercise faith they are repenting and beginning to put the Atonement to effect in their lives.  As you notice and watch this your own appreciation for the Atonement will increase.  Let me know in your letter this week some of the changes you are seeing in yourself and in your investigators.
Third, examine how you feel when taking the sacrament and as you repent in your personal prayers.  One of the greatest blessings we can have in this life is to feel the peace that comes from forgiveness.  This peace and calm can only come through the Atonement of Christ.  I have done so many baptismal interviews where the people just want to feel clean and have the burden of sin lifted from their shoulders.
Fourth, when you get discouraged or lose your desire for the work, remember and picture in your mind the Savior in the Garden of Gethsemane.  As you see that image remember that in the most difficult of all things, our Savior did not quit.  He saw the Atonement through to the end.  If we are to accept his sacrifice we must also keep going and see our mission through to the end.  Find your motivation in the Savior.
Increase your appreciation, understanding and gratitude for  the Atonement and you will want to go out and work.  You will feel motivated and inspired to invite others to come unto Christ and you will feel driven to help them receive the restored gospel and help them prepare for baptism.  This week and always, keep Jesus Christ at the center of all you do. 

We love you,
President and Sister Winn