What a special day it was yesterday at Church. We talked about the Savior, I heard one of my favorite Christmas carols, "O Holy Night" sung by a ward member, and had lots of time to ponder about the season.
As I pondered, I thought about this blog I do daily. Once my boss asked me why wanted to go on a mission. I told him I just wanted to serve, I love missionary work, and I am looking forward to serving with my companion. But after yesterday, I want to add a few more answers to the question, "Why a mission?"
Ringing in my mind is the discourse Elder Holland gave in Priesthood Meeting in October, pleading for more Senior Missionaries. Since he has always been a favorite of mine and since I can also recall the Prophet asking for more Senior Missionaries, I guess you could say that wanting to serve a mission would be an act of obedience.
Another reason is what I was reminded of yesterday in Gospel Doctrine class. We talked about the Savior and the atonement and how it influences our lives. I paused and pondered his actions, the events surrounding the atonement, and then felt a bit teary eyed. I cannot realize my fondest dream of the Celestial Kingdom with those I love without His Atonement. He did it for me. He had pain for my weaknesses. He suffered because I am a sinner. So, I feel serving a mission may, in a tiny way, help to repay my Savior for the many things He has done for me.
The feelings of joy is another reason I want to serve with Bonnie. I remember fondly the joy I felt as I saw people entering the waters of baptism in Mexico long ago. I tenderly recall the feelings of joy as I have the opportunity of serving in the Kingdom. I remember teaching my children the joys of service and now all of them know of what I speak. Joy comes from sacrificing, and what better sacrifice than to sacrifice for my Savior and my Father. Joy brings it's own reward, and I guess I am selfish when I desire that feeling surrounding me.
One last reason for wanting to serve a mission is getting to know brothers and sisters I do not know now. I may have known them efore, probably did know them before this life and this will be a sort of reunion meeting them again in this mortality.
I find it scary thinking about a mission, for the exact way to be able to serve is not clear to me as yet. I am afraid I will get excited to the point of celebrating and then have that opportunity be withheld from us for a time. Thus I cautiously look forward to serving as a missionary in the coming months for many reasons. Bottom line is I believe Father wants us both to serve a mission in about 173 days.
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