Why Romania?

Dear Family and Friends,
Just wanted to share something with you all: As you already know Zach has been called to serve in the Romania, Bucharest Mission and he is thrilled! As many of you know this has been a long and challenging process ongoing since last fall. The paperwork was never really the issue, it was other challenges and stumbling blocks along the way. Such as; getting interviews set up, Zach trying to decide whether to go to College or not, dealing with the loss of Grandma Pat, traveling time between Burley and SLC for the interviews, Dr. appointments, etc. We always felt that there had to be something or some reason why we had so many discouraging delays and challenges. But, now we know why. I've always said, the Lord had better have something really special in store for Zach. So here's the rest of the story:
I'm not sure if you have all heard of the recent loss of two extraordinary LDS Missionaries that succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning after going to bed in their apartment on January 29th. They both died in their sleep from an accidental leak of the gas. Interestingly enough, Zach's interview with the Stake President had been delayed almost one whole month after his papers had been submitted before Christmas. Our Stake Pres, unknown to us had knee surgery the first part of January. Thus, another delay, so Zach would not be able to have his final interview with the Stake President until Thursday Jan 28th. So, finally, Zach had his interview with Pres. Sagers, and was re-assured that he would be submitting his Mission Recommendation that same night to SLC. Ironically, the two missionaries that lost their lives where serving in the Romania, Bucharest Mission. Thus, leaving an opening for two full time missionaries to fill the vacancy. We now know why Zach was reserved for this special reason, to serve in the Romania Bucharest Mission. He understands and knows that these missionaries lost their lives serving the Lord, but he is not afraid. For whatever reason, retrospectively we look back now over the past 6 months and understand why every challenge and step delayed was for this very purpose, to prepare him to handle this Mission Call, and the special circumstances that surrounded it.
We thank you for your love and support, it has been a tough year all around, but now our heart and mind's have been opened to a clearer understanding of why and how the Lord does work in mysterious ways. He has shown us that even with the great sorrow for one family comes the excitement and happiness of another family and why this special mission assignment was reserved especially for Zach. Elder Jensen is super excited, yet, anxious and nervous too, which is to be expected. He knows the Romanian Language will be his biggest challenge yet, but he is more than ready for it! We will keep you all posted as to when his Farewell is and hope that we will see you then.

Love, Linda