Tuesday December 11, 2007

Natasha Antoniak
December 11, 2007
Tuesday the 11th was out of control with writing our New Testament paper. The computer lab was in a furious frenzy from the moment class finished at 8:20 am, continuing through lunch, and tense with urgency until 5pm when they were due in your office.
The scene was mad pandemonium as you recall seeing scriptures strown about everywhere, Bible Dictionary terms being avidly recited, and Brother Draper walking in and out saying, “Yup. Smells like burnt brain cells!”
By the time dinner rolled around, a lot of us were hastily getting ready for the much-anticipated concert which was the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra! They were playing Mahler’s “Resurrection” accompanied by a full-out-dressed-in-black choir as well as two very distinguished and talented Vocal Soloists. Performing together, all musicians created a very astounding performance in which the height of the music was moving, inspiriational and stunning.
We attributed this electrifying rendition to the virtuoso, 26 year old Conductor whose long, crazy, black hair was swaying back and forth as he jumped around on stage. It was absolutely exceptional to watch brilliance in action.
Favorite New Testament Moment:
I thoroughly am grateful for the testimony meeting we had in the Tiberias Branch while visitng the Galilee for 9 days. The spirit of love, revelation, and faith were there in each testimony shared. I think we all learned a lot from each other’s experiences and admonitions. There seemed to be a common theme of knowing Heavenly Father has led us here as to prepare us for even greater opportunity in sharing the gospel. He is teaching us to truly become disciples of Christ.
As we had concentrated time at the Galilee, reading of the Savior in the New Testament taught us of other people’s witness of His healings, miracles, and doctrine. It was encouraged that we write our own, so that we, too, may share and invite others to come to the knowledge of His goodness and prepare to further enter into His presence. It was a poweful meeting that meant a lot to me personally. I will look back on that meeting with gratitude for everyone’s spiritual preparation and readiness to uplift and unite each other and our experience here.