Letters to Missionaries

Elders,  How are we motivated? Is it an outward motivation or an inward motivation? Are we forced to be good, to be reverent, to be obedient, to be faithful? Is it coercion and compulsion or a willing desire to obey? Do we grudgingly arise in the morning? Do we groan in following the Savior because he asks a hard thing from us? Must the law be written in stone alone or is it written in the fleshy parts of our hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3)? We are asked to be a candle light in the darkness and a city upon a hill (Luke 11:33-35; Matthew 5:14). Show gratitude for the blessing of light and knowledge that God has revealed to you. He has shown you mysteries that others yearn to know. He has no secrets. Secrets are for shame. Mysteries are to be revealed as we are ready for them. God has no secrets. Be glad for that. He wants to open your eyes and show you things that will brighten your hope, strengthen your faith, and enrich your joy, not only for you but also for those that you touch. Open...

Elders,  The resurrected Savior asked Peter, three times, Lovest thou me?"  (John 21:15 - 21:17). Here the Savior questions his trust and loyalty. Remember Elders, trust is faith and loyalty is repentance. Imagine if you will this fellow Peter, he has seen the risen Lord and broke bread with Him. He is now getting this question.  Agape thou me? (I switched out the English with the Greek). He recalls those times of healing the sick, lame, blind, leper and even seeing dead Lazarus live again. Recalls feeding the thousands. He smiles. Thousands of Jews and Samaritans praised His name. Yes Lord, thou knowest I phaleo thee. Feed my sheep. Then the Lord asks again, Agape thou me? Peter recalls the tough times. The boat that almost sank. The Pharisees and Sadducees that were a constant threat, even at the garden, yet still he was by the Savior's side. He is comforted that he was strong during those time too. Yes Lord, thou knowest I phaleo thee.  Feed my sheep, He says...

Brothers, I have been given the privilege of sending a message to both missionaries and a soldier. Truly, I am honored that both those who defend our borders and those who defend our faith enjoy my letters. It is said that both eyes and ears are important, and this was discussed in Paul's letter to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). This means that in your roles, it is important to realize that defending the faith and defending the country are of equal importance. I want you to know that doing good radiates and inspires others. You are trailblazers in your own right.  Remember that Ammon served and defended his new country, and in doing so, was able to share the gospel. Just because your life course is different does not mean that you cannot share your faith in the Savior especially during the Christmas season. During this season, please remember that Jesus' sacrifice to give us the Atonement must include his name. Do not divorce the Atonement from the Son of God who mad...