I literally can't believe Christmas is in 2 days! It doesn't feel real. I am so humbled and grateful to be out here serving in Alabama. When I think of Christmas, I usually think about dessert and gifts and family and friends and scarfs and stockings and parties. But this year I don't have much of that. You could say that is sad and lonely, but it is quite the opposite. Of course I miss everyone back home, but I would not want to be anywhere else. CHRISTmas is about Christ. He is the reason for the season. He is our Savior, the man who is "greater than a king", who came into this world in the most humble of circumstances.
How would you feel if you had a birthday party, invited the whole population, and you didn't get any gifts. In fact, all your guests gave each other gifts! That would seem strange. Christmas is about remembering Christ's birthday, so what gifts can we give Him? It is obvious He isn't asking for your new I-pad or boots, so what could he possibly want from us? That is just it, He wants US! He wants us to love those around us and serve them, for "inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." (Matthew 25:40) May we try to forget about our ourselves this Christmas season. May we share a smile, help someone with their groceries, or bake some cookies for a friend.
I feel so lucky to be a missionary because that is all we do! We get to serve all day, everyday. Last night we went caroling with the 4 Elders which was a great time!!! We went door to door and sang Christmas hymns, trying to spread the cheer and love of our Savior. It was dumping rain and we were soaking wet. Yet we just laughed and danced and had a very merry time! At 4 different houses we went to people came up to the door when they heard us knock, we started singing, then they turned off their porch lights and walked away. It was rather strange. Instead of getting disappointed or offended or giving up, we had to realize they are probably struggling with something greater than we can understand. We must stay positive and love all men, no matter what! It was a memory I will forever treasure.
I love my Savior and His gospel. May we all learn to love and serve this Christmas season!!!
Love, Sister Ella Rae Madsen
Blanca-our friend who works at the yogurt shop! so yummy! she gave us Christmas gifts-SO thoughtful! Love her!
Breakfast for dinner at the Nielsen's! Sausage, bacon, hash browns, eggs, French toast! Delicious!
don't post this bc it is disgusting!!!!!! but I have self diagnosed myself with chronic sinusitis! I bought a netti pot and it is wonderful!!! but unfortunately the other day I got gnarly bloody nose-it was dripping blood for 10 minutes straight!!!!!! hahhah
gorgeous sunset at the local stadium!!
baking at paula pitmans house! she is southern Baptist and I am pretty sure she is trying to convert us. I love it! hahha
paulas gorgeous home-it was on the cover of southern living in 1985! we thought it was really cool one day and we saw some men working outside so we walked up and started talking to them! then the wife came home (paula) and she is so sweet. they even invited us over for Christmas eve (but we can't go sadly)
Christmas party with my favorite sisters!!!! sister Gustafson from the mtc and sister platt from san diego!
elder and sister hatch-the most hilarious senior couple
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