Language of the Missionaries

Language of the Missionaries

“For it shall come to pass in that day, that every man shall hear the fulness of the gospel in his own tongue, and in his own language, through those who are ordained unto this power, by the administration of the Comforter, shed forth upon them for the revelation of Jesus Christ”  (D&C 90: 11).  I am about to enter the Provo Missionary Training Center, a school famous for teaching languages.  Yet, the instructions I received require me to bring scriptures in my native language, a four generation pedigree chart, and stories of my ancestors.  The reason of course, is that I need to hear the gospel in my own language in order to have the understanding that invites the comforter.  When I am converted, then I can “set in order the churches, and study and learn, and become acquainted with all good books, and with languages, tongues, and people.” (D&C 90: 11, 15).

If the Lord requires me to be as Ammon and go to a people of another language, “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded” for I know He will prepare a way for me to do it.  If it is Spanish, “Iré y haré lo que el Señor ha mandado”.  If it is Kichwa, “Rishpa Apunchik-Taytapak nishkata rurashami”.

The people we teach can be like the Sons of Mosiah:  “And he caused that they should be taught in all the language of his fathers, that thereby they might become men of understanding; and that they might know concerning the prophecies which had been spoken by the mouths of their fathers, which were delivered them by the hand of the Lord” (Mosiah 1: 2).

Acceptance letter

Since serving in South America as a young missionary 1967-1970, I have continued to develop my language skills and serve the latino and indigenous people.  I am pleased that the Lord has accepted our sacrifices and deemed us prepared for a new opportunity to serve full time.

I have been impressed with the good example of my brother Nathan and JoAnn in serving a series of temple missions.  We felt the Spirit strongly during our visit with them in Nauvoo.  We realized then that we had already been called.  We are glad to receive the letter from President Monson indicating that we are chosen.

My God hath been my support, he hath led me through mine afflictions.  I have learned to trust in the Lord, not in the arm of flesh.  I know, like my father and my ancestors back five generations, that Joseph Smith did receive the priesthood and the covenants of Abraham.  I know that President Monson is a true prophet of the living God.  I know that the temple teachings, ordinances, and covenants bless the individuals and families who participate in them.

Our time in Ecuador will uplift many people, and also bring blessings to our children and grandchildren.

Called to serve

23 February 2010 (received 26 Feb)"You are hereby called to serve as missionaries of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Your primary assignment is to labor in the Guayaquil Ecuador Temple as temple missionaries... for 18 months.  Report to the Provo Missionary Training Center on Monday, May 3, 2010."  Signed by Thomas S. Monson

We are humbled and feel full of the Spirit, confirming that this is where the Lord needs us at this time.  We are excited for the opportunity to be of service.  We recognize the hand of the Lord in preparing us, and removing barriers along the way.

Pendiente

We have applied for full time service in the temple in Guayaquil.  We are standing by to see if we are approved for this assignment, and trying to raise money for the extra expenses we have this month.  Please sign up as a follower so you will know when there is a new posting.