The rain is unrelenting, the winds are fierce, and, just as the tune goes, the floods have certainly "come up." Our apartment complex lost power for a short time earlier in the week, which now seems inconsequential compared to the outage endured in the middle of our sacrament meeting on the Sabbath. And yet, the Saints faithfully gathered in the dark to engage in that sacred ordinance. Their actions show their devotion to and understanding of their covenantal relationship with Christ. This unique display of faith strengthened mine. All in all, the proceedings of the week, at least pertaining to the unusual weather, have left me feeling particularly empathetic towards the people of Noah…
This end of this week also marks the dawn of a new transfer. Sadly, my dear companion Elder Prestwich will be transferred away. In his stead I will receive Elder Barrus. Change is challenging, but my feelings are generally optimistic.
From the start to the end of this transfer I have come to understand why the Lord likens His work unto laboring in a vineyard (Jacob 5). The ambiance of the area when I first arrived, as far as the work was concerned, could certainly be described as decaying. There was nothing too promising going on and the work was far from flourishing. But because I knew this piece of the ground was loved by the Master of the Vineyard I set out to nourish it to health and fruitfulness.
I must say, the work did often feel as arduous as pruning and digging about a tree. But because we labored with our might, full of love for God and His children, we have seen miracles. We have found those who are prepared and who desire to be grafted into the "true vine" that they might "[bring] forth much fruit." (John 15:1-5). I am happy to report that the diligent effort expended this transfer resulted in three of our friends, Wayne, Robert, and Matthew choosing this week to begin preparations for baptism on February 11th. We are overjoyed at their choice and delighted for them to join the Lord's fold and taste more completely of His love.
I testify that the Lord's "work and [His] glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man" (Moses 1:39), is purely a labor of love, "for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw all men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation" (2 Nephi 26:24).
I also testify that in His matchless love for us, He also has provided us the opportunity and privilege to be a part of His marvelous work. And His simple instruction of how we might join Him has trickled through the centuries to our day: "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another" (John 13:33).
I echo the admonition of John, Christ's beloved, who taught, "if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another" (1 John 4:11). I know this is how the Lord would have us serve with and alongside Him. Afterall, do we not sing, "Where love is, there God is also?"
I promise that all who will choose to love in every situation, no matter how divisive and regardless of the stakes, will find truth, fulfillment, and joy in this life and throughout eternity.
Songs
Low Tide Love—Tipling Rock
If you made it this far, or if you didn't, I love you.
See you,
Elder Winegar
P.S.
You may recall some, shall we say, artistic choices in last week's email. Should that become the new normal? Let me know what you think…
P.P.S
I had some 
razy dreams all last week, if you want to know if you were in them, hit me up.
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