Dear Sisters and Elders –
How are things going with the Book of Mormon challenge? For me, I have already gained new insights into the Atonement of Jesus Christ and a deeper appreciation for Him. This focused study has also helped me to understand better our role as missionaries.
I am grateful for the opportunity we have to represent our Savior and Redeemer to the world. Despite our weaknesses and shortcomings, He uses us to spread His gospel to all that will listen (see 1 Cor. 1:27; D&C 35:13). He asks us to be living examples of Him (see MH, 8). He has given us the authority to represent Him and endows us with His power as we faithfully fulfill our responsibilities (see PMG, 4-5).
Our high privilege and responsibility as missionaries is described by Bruce R. McConkie (1915-1985), a former member of the Quorum of the Twelve, in a statement entitled My Missionary Commission:
“I am called of God.
“My authority is above that of kings of the earth.
“By revelation I have been selected as a personal representative of the Lord Jesus Christ.
“He is my master and He has chosen me to represent Him--to stand in His place, to say and do what He Himself would say and do if He personally were ministering to the very people to whom He has sent me.
“My voice is His voice, and my acts are His acts; my doctrine is His doctrine.
“My Commission is to do what He wants done; to say what He wants said; to be a living modern witness in word and in deed of the divinity of his great and marvelous Latter-day work.
“How great is my calling!”
Please review the above statement with your companion and discuss any insights you gain. Strive to “conduct yourself at all times in such a way that everyone who sees you will recognize you as a representative of Jesus Christ” (MH, 8).
I am grateful for your devotion to the Savior and for your consecrated efforts to serve Him effectively.
With love and gratitude,
President Pingree