On October 5, Elder Jonathan Tsai returned home after serving two years in the Australia Melbourne Chinese Speaking Mission. His family were so excited to meet him that they canceled all of their prior engagements that night, so that they could pick him up at the airport. Dinner was happily eaten in the car on the way to the home of President Harrison, where Elder Tsai was finally released by the same person who set him apart him as a full-time missionary two years ago. Although it was a difficult transition to accept for the diligent missionary, all good things must come to an end. On the other hand, after one door is closed, God opens another door. The new prospects are ahead for Elder Tsai.
The following Sunday, Elder Tsai reported on his mission to the stake council in front of the stake presidency. That afternoon, after church services, a branch homecoming fireside was held in his honor. At 4pm, members came into the cultural hall, enjoyed some crackers and cheese, talked with Elder Tsai, and enjoyed a slideshow of photos from Elder Tsai's missionary experience. Our branch mission leader, Peng Lin, conducted the missionary fireside. After Elder Tsai's parents said a few words, President Shen made some remarks and presented Elder Tsai with a plaque for his mission. Then Elder Tsai shared thoughts about his mission with everyone. After a closing hymn and prayer, the fireside was adjourned. The branch provided a beautiful cake to celebrate the return of Elder Tsai.
Looking at Elder Tsai, one would not notice anything different from before. In fact, he kept wearing the same missionary outfit for a few days. His demeanor and disposition are about the same as before. His speech and actions appear to the same Jonathan before his mission. But a closer inspection will reveal that Elder Tsai indeed has changed on the inside where it really counts. His knowledge of the gospel and understanding of life and other people have improved significantly. Elder Tsai's return resembles that of the sons of Mosiah. "What added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God. But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God." (Alma 17:2-3)
Well done, and welcome come back, Jonathan!
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