Missionary Journal – July 30, 1989
Day 61 of my full-time mission
Area: Layton, Utah (Layton Stake)
Today was a long, long day. We got up at 5 a.m. to be ready for our 6:30 a.m. meeting with the stake mission presidency. At 7:45 a.m., we helped teach the stake mission preparation class, and at 8:45 a.m., we met with the stake and mission presidencies.
I have to echo again how happy I am to be serving here. It was a real learning experience and an absolute honor for me to even be involved in such a meeting with men in higher authority as those gentlemen. I’m very impressed with how the stake is running things. They’re there to support us all the way.
As I mentioned the other day, Elder Smith and I talked a long time about missionary life. I don’t think I’ll ever learn it all. I am humbled because I know there’s just so much for a full-time missionary to do, and in fact, so many things that I don’t know how to do them or where to begin because I haven’t seen an example of all of them yet. Actually, I shouldn’t be that surprised. This whole life is a learning process. My mission is just the bouncing board for the rest of my life as a member of Christ’s church.
The talks we gave in the 7th Ward sacrament meeting went over well, from what I was told. The bishop complimented us, saying they were the best talks he had ever heard from missionaries. I told him I was flattered, and he said he meant it.
Alma 26:12 — I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things…
I have never ceased to be amazed at what the Lord has done for me already.
Tonight we saw President Benson’s 90th birthday celebration at a member’s home. You know, I was so touched by the spirit. I can’t even describe the feelings I have now.
All I want to do is what’s right. I love the Lord with all my heart. I hope and pray that I may continue to fulfill the responsibilities I am given as a missionary, as a member of this church, and as a servant of the Lord.
While President Benson was an apostle, he served as the Secretary of Agriculture for Pres. Ford in the White House. His service was to his country for eight years.
The Lord has many ways in which his followers can serve Him. I can’t help but think a performer could do so much good in the world. I often contemplate my divine calling in life. The only decision I can make is this: as long as I stay close to the Lord and continually progress spiritually, He will guide my decisions and provide for me.
Oh, how I wish I were perfect. How I wish I could easily do everything I want to so that I can become a mighty man in the sight of the Lord. I am so thankful for my older brother, Jesus Christ, in whom I may be forgiven of my sins. I am so sorry I committed them, but I’m just not perfect.
How I long to always feel of His spirit and share it with others while I’m on a mission and throughout my life is my fervent prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.