Isaiah 52:7: How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!
I was grateful for the challenge, since one my nieces, Rachel, just left to serve a mission a couple of months ago, to North Carolina. And a nephew, Tanner, just left last week to serve in Argentina. They are the first niece and nephew to go, and many more will follow--including some of my own children, I'm sure. (For those of you not as familiar with missionary work within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you can read more HERE.) As my wife and I, along with my kids, have started to pray for Rachel and Tanner, we're daily reminded of the importance of missionary work and how wonderful it is that we can all be missionaries and let others know of the teachings of Jesus Christ through our words and daily actions. We're grateful to share something that means so much to us, and has truly helped us be happy.
At my parents' home, there's a map of the world on the wall with pin-on banners showing various locations. And under that map is a listing of who has served full-time missions thus far, starting with my mom and dad who, before they were married, both had the opportunity to serve in Germany. It's been fun to look at each time the family gathers--to think about who will be next to leave, and to be reminded of how important it is to share truth with others.
While my mission to Japan was an extremely humbling experience (particularly learning the language), I am grateful that I was able to share important truths with the people of Japan. I'm very grateful, too, that I was blessed with other missionary opportunities afterwards: to be a part of the Hill Cumorah Pageant and to be a performing missionary in Nauvoo, Illinois. These were certainly some of my life's highlights, including now being able to sing in the Choir. But my greatest missionary moments have come as my wife and I have been able to teach and love our children. These are opportunities and experiences I wouldn't trade for anything.
The great thing is, that regardless of who we are, we can all be a positive and uplifting influence on others, sharing truths we've learned within our families and with everyone in our sphere of influence.
The world needs more light. So be a light!
Until next time, God be with you.
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