The Consecrated Missionary

One of the articles we are encouraged to read every transfer is titled 'Becoming a Consecrated Missionary' by Tad R. Callister.  I would recommend to everyone to read this paper and consider how they can endure as missionaries as well.

Callister says a consecrated missionary is willing to "give every ounce of energy, every conscious thought, and every drop of passion to this work."  Parley P. Pratt had served as a missionary for over 25 years and had just returned home when President Brigham Young called him to another mission.  Instead of complaining or thinking, 'haven't I done enough?' he accepted.  He said "when the spirit of God is upon me, I think it matters but very little what I suffer, what I sacrificed - whether I secure the honor or dishonor of men, or where I die, if it so be that I can keep the faith, fight the good fight, and finish my course with joy.  I have all eternity before me, in which to enjoy myself."

I want to be like Parley P. Pratt.  I want to have that much desire and give the Lord every drop of passion to serving him.  The scripture that drove me into the mission field is about that desire.  Alma and the sons of Mosiah were possibly the best missionaries in the Book of Mormon.  They endured being stoned, thrown into prison, tied up, and beat, yet they continued on and changed thousands of hearts.  In Mosiah 28 they gave the reason for their endurance.  "Now they were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature, for they could not bear that any human soul should perish; yea, even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble."  When I read that verse I felt it.  I thought about the people in the world who don't have this happiness only because they don't know where to look.  This scripture propelled me forward.  I knew I had to try, even if I didn't baptize anyone.  I knew that my small sacrifice would help at least one person.

I know you all know someone who isn't experiencing the gospel right now.  Let the missionaries know.  They can help!  Introduce them to the missionaries.  Have them over for a Family Home Evening.  Give them a copy of the Book of Mormon.  Try to imagine this person in white.  When you do that desire will spark.  I can promise you that.  I promise the Lord will strengthen you as you invite others to come unto Christ.  He has done it for me, and I know he can do it for you.  Who do you know that needs the gospel?