This is Elder Escamilla's mom, Misty. Unfortunately, we will not get an email this week from Elder Escamilla, but instead a special message he expressed with us from his heart during his travels. Today has been a beautiful day. We've had the pleasure of receiving two phone calls from Elder Escamilla during his layover at Salt Lake City Airport and Los Angeles Airport.
He is so excited to get to Australia to share the same joy he feels with the gospel in his life. His commitment to serve a two-year mission is worth the temporary sacrifice to leave from home, our family, West Point, and friends! I could hear the joy in his voice and see his beautiful big smile! His message was loud and clear of his love for Jesus Christ, the gospel, the scriptures, and God children. As you've probably heard, he does have a strong testimony and he says it in Korean too, so please take some time to listen to it even though you may not understand. (attachment) It is beautiful.
He did want me to tell everyone "Thank you for the birthday wishes and cards!" He actually forgot it was his 21st birthday until his district reminded him with a little celebration! đ
This evening, I received a surprising text message from a total stranger who is a former Bishop from Memphis, TN. He stopped to visit with the missionaries while they were waiting at the Los Angeles Airport and bought a few missionaries hamburgers and had the opportunity to get to know them a little. He did marvel about Elder Escamilla and said he was an awesome and amazing young man, along with his journey at West Point and serving a mission. We were truly thankful he shared a picture and a video with us.
Traveling missionary companions to Australia.
God Be With You Until We Meet Again
Elder Escamilla's testimony in Korean.