A Little Bit of Fun

Who has ever played The Sims™? If you have, have you ever noted (and appreciated) the comically quirky nature of eccentric, or excitable sims? When they succeed at something, win a game, or become elated, the toss one hand in the air and exclaim, "Woohoo!"

My companion does that. We were at a Mormon Helping Hands project at the local hospital, and he succeeded in removing the lid from the paint tin. Yes, and that got him excited. And not just that, for even the littlest of things.

Not to mention him suddenly breaking out into song and dance. I don't understand. I don't. It's like President Zackrison took the most comical missionary, and the gravest, and put them together.

He's just so happy. Now, I'm not completely morbid, or depressive, but sometimes I'm just left flabbergasted. Indeed, the Lord does have a sense of humour, and so does my companion, yet I just don't seem to get it.

That being said, I do love him. It makes for an interesting companionship, and since the work is booming, it must be good. I'm curious as to what I'll learn from him persona-wise. My last companion got me saying, "Oh my days..."

As for the work, we're helping a solid intellectual quit smoking, and prepare for baptism. We'll be teaching, and baptising a dry Mormon (member at heart, just needs to enter the waters) in due course. Tackling part-member families. Declaring truths to large families with strong religious backgrounds (lots of potential there). And preparing children of record (born in the Church) whose parents are less-active (working with them as well).

My companion and I will soon be appearing in the local newspaper.

We'll grab 'em souls where we can get 'em.

Now that sounded a little bit sinister...

Uhmmm, I mean, we'll share wherever we can.

Our ward mission leader has been helping out phenomenally, telling us to work and have fun at the same time. So we'll be preparing a Friday Night, Game Night, Date Night for the young couples in the area (active, less-active, non-member alike). It sounds like fun.

And then there are the tender mercies of the Lord all around. One of the families we've been working with has been struggling, very much so. But as the Gospel penetrates their hearts, they're changing. Our last encounter showed a family happy to be together, and to do all it takes to build upon a rock solid foundation.

It's true, my brothers and sisters. It really is. The Gospel can change lives, and all for the better. It's just up to us, whether we'll accept or reject it. It's up to us to make that choice. God will never force, or coerce us to do something we don't want to do.

What does the Bible say about Prophets?

Have you ever noticed how people turn to the pages of the Bible to find answers to questions, or things they may not fully understand? Me neither. To find someone who actually reads - for understanding, to boot - is a rarity. Therefore, I have set out to find answers from the most well-known, recorded source of God's dealings with mankind. And, as a Latter-day Saint, I'll start with one of the foundations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - prophets. For such is my charge, to feed His sheep.

The Articles of Faith, written by Joseph Smith to state the official beliefs of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, state that we believe in prophets.

Articles of Faith 1:6 "We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth."

We believe these things as they have been revealed through prophets of God, both ancient (from the Bible and the Book of Mormon) and modern (called of God by the laying on of hands). Additionally, the Holy Bible supports this statement, and provides the purpose.

Ephesians 4:11-16 "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."

It is to protect the saints from the craftiness of men, and the winds of doctrine which would have us tossed to and fro. It is to be the foundation until "the unity of faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God". It also places Christ as the head of His Church, which we perpetuate as members of The Church of Jesus Christ.

So what is the purpose of a prophet?

Amos 3:7 "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."

So prophets receive revelation from God - as it is His chosen means of work with the children of men.

Luke 1:70 "As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:" (See Luke 1:68)

Prophets are the Lord's spokesman, and have been in existence since the beginning of the world.

Acts 10:43 "To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins."

And they witness of Christ, and His redeeming love. This, I believe to be of strong importance, as we are taught to try the spirits, whether they be of God.

1 John 4:1-3 "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world."

We are warned of many false prophets, so we test them to see of whom they testify.

So how do we identify a prophet?

Numbers 12:6 "And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream."

I find this verse particularly interesting, because it shows that God reveals Himself to His prophets through a vision [and speaks to them in a dream].

Joseph Smith, a prophet of God, not only testified of Christ, but saw God the Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ, in a vision, in the Spring of 1820.

Another evidence would be whether or not they have received authority to do so from God.

Articles of Faith 1:5 "We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof."

An account given in the Old Testament shows how Moses ordained Joshua, as commanded by God, by the laying on of hands.

Numbers 27:22-23 "And Moses did as the Lord commanded him: and he took Joshua, and set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation: And he laid his hands upon him, and gave him a charge, as the Lord commanded by the hand of Moses."

Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were ordained by John the Baptist and Peter, James, and John (respectively) as a part of the restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ, specifically, the restoration of the Priesthood of God.

And by their fruits, ye shall know them.

Matthew 7:20 "Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them."

Joseph Smith was the instrument of God in the bringing back of His Church in these latter days. He was the instrument used in the translation of a record recorded on golden plates, even the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ, which testifies of Christ.

2 Nephi 25:26 "And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins."

Ephesians 2:19-21 even teaches us that prophets form part of the foundation in the household of God (so prophets were not abolished in the New Testament). And Isaiah even prophecies of the restoration of these judges and counselors from the beginning (Isaiah 1:26).

This is what the Bible says. The question is, What does this mean for us?

Trials and Triumphs

The Botshabelo Elders are sick and afflicted. Yea, let me start with that. Elder Ocitti has been struck with the infamous influenza, whereas Elder Smith awoke one morning with an ailed digit. Thus making our mornings as such:

Elder Smith awakes at 04:00 with a shooting pain in his big left toe; inflamed, hypersensitive, bleeding, and with limited mobility. Elder Ocitti pulls himself out of bed ten minutes after the designated time and wraps himself in a blanket for as long as possible, looking up as much as possible; congested, sneezing, and coughing at random intervals.

But there is work to do, so I grab the first aid kit, and we muster up the strength to prepare ourselves and perform our labours; a prayer of faith pushing us through as the work goes on unhindered. And it is in the area we notice something awry this way come.

On Tuesday, we went into the area with the Zone Leaders to interview a candidate for baptism - Tumelo. However, things didn't go as planned. Suddenly, their attitude changed and they were completely against the idea, stating that the Book of Mormon was just too new for them, and that they needed more time. Tears streamed from his eyes, and it felt as if a dagger pierced my heart.

Immediately I thought, "We're here to interview Tumelo... the one with a testimony." I mean, the reason we have baptismal interviews is to make sure that the candidate is prepared to make the covenants he/she is about to make - that they are, in fact, ready. Moreover, if God has told him that he needs to be baptised, who are we to say no? If he was under age, I'd understand, but he's twenty.

In the end, we agreed to respect the family's wishes (especially considering he lived with them). Our goal is to work with the family to make this transition as peaceful as possible. By the end of May, he will be baptised. We were able to have a powerful lesson with his brother, in which Tumelo bore his testimony.

On Friday, we went to see a Part Member family; we're teaching and preparing the daughter for baptism and working on bringing the father and sons back into activity. As we arrived, we noted that the daughter wasn't home. We asked and found that she'd left home to stay with her grandmother. When we asked why, they said something about her wanting to go back to her old church.

Wait, what? Why would that make her leave home for good as well?

I committed her brother to visit her and to tell her that God loves her, that he loves her, and that he wants to walk with her to church on Sunday.

We started teaching a lady whose husband is a member. In fact, she tracked us down and said, "Hey! My husband's a member of your church - you need to see him." It was great. We were able to start seeing him, rededicate him to scripture study and prayer, and even bring him back to church a couple of times - he's working on a schedule with his boss and colleagues that would allow him to come to church every Sunday.

When we met with his wife, though, we were surprised that she, being a non-member, knew the restoration inside and out, even the doctrines of the church, and wasn't even opposed.

She said, "Who prayed for tate to find a place when he was moving from church to church? Who thanked God when you missionaries started teaching him? Who went to his baptism in Thaba 'Nchu? Who went out to find you and bring him back to church when he stopped going? Me! I did that. I will support him where he is, and I pray that he stays in this church until he dies. I'll even be there for him when he's ready to go to the Temple."

She even quoted 1 Corinthians 1 when Paul said "Is Christ divided?" to support her love for the Church. "But I'm too old to change churches now," she said. She's even got a strong calling in the church she's in, pulling everything together.

We even have a you lady who's been investigating the church for years already, but she keeps postponing her own baptismal date. Even a recent convert whom we asked to fellowship this young lady said, "I'm not even going to bother trying."

But all is well in Zion. Tumelo is still coming to Church. His brother even said, "Who am I to deny it?"

The Part Member family we're trying to bring back to Church actually came (they're even reading and praying). The branch even had a record attendance of 73 (it used to average 35), with 13 investigators (the members were even responsible for two of them).

The recent convert I asked to fellowship the young lady came up to me and said, "I did what you asked, and I got my answer. I'll do it." Together we were even able to chat with the young lady, and she agreed that there was no real reason for postponing her baptismal date - rescheduling for an earlier date.

And thus we see the tender mercies of the Lord. Hard work, faith, and obedience with exactness pays off. We keep working, we keep praying, and we keep believing - no matter how hard it seems to get.

And that brings me to other news. I'm losing my baba. Transfers are happening on Tuesday and my trainer is being taken to the coast to become a Zone Leader.

My new companion will be Elder Gwebu (from Johannesburg). I will need to rely on my skills of direction (yes, keep laughing, especially those of you know those skills don't exist). My new companion will also be the new District Leader.

For those of you who don't know, training is twelve weeks, so this is unusual.

Further news is that we'll be changing boardings (closer to the area). Elder Ocitti is healed. And I even found an Old Testament Manual with Elder Martin's name in it - another sign that we'll be companions some day.

This past week, according to the training package, was to focus more on Prayer and the Holy Ghost - and to most this seems really simple, but in the world we live today people don't see it as a two-way communication between God and man. We've developed a culture of recited prayers. And, frankly, that needs to stop! If you're reciting the same prayer as you recited yesterday, stop.

There is a better way. God's way.

Heavenly Father has, countless times, through the scriptures and mouths of His prophets told us that we need to pray to Him. It is a commanment - even that we do it often.

The pattern for this has been set: We address our Heavenly Father, express the feelings of our heart, ask specific and direct questions, express gratitude, and close "in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

We need to develop a culture of talking to our God, avoiding vain repetition. We need to realise, recognise, and believe that He will answer us through feelings (Galatians 5:22-23), thoughts, and ultimately a sense of knowing.

So this is my challenge for you this week, ask God. And I will be bold. If you trust God, ask Him if the Book of Mormon is true. If you don't have one, we'll get you one. And if you aren't even sure God is there, ask Him. He will answer.

Where is God in Your Life?

This past week has been an interesting one indeed. But before that, let me include a portion of the previous week I left out.

While on exchanges with Elder Brimhall, we were on the UFS (University of the Free State) campus to organise an open dialogue titled Porn: Bad or Good? with the purpose being To discuss the opinions and realities relating to porn, the industry, and addiction. We were trying to find people to help us with the formalities when, suddenly, the Student Council President walks up to me and says, "Do you need my signature for anything?"

As she read our proposal she seemed really interested and took her to her office to gain contacts to form a panel on the day. She gave us ideas for venues on campus and times most students would be available. Elder Brimhall and I then spent quite some time chatting to persons, students, staff and professors, from various departments regarding the dialogue - with some good expose on the Church.

It was a good experience - and reminded me just how much I miss being on campus. But we were there for work - and work we did.

During this week, however, I have noticed a concern we are having with many of our investigators - one we need to address creatively. When we teach, we feel the Spirit. When we teach, the people respond really well. But the moment we leave, and then return, we see that things they have committed to, they failed to follow through with.

And I began thinking, how can we get people to actually take the time out to read their scriptures? How can we get people to take time out for God? In this materialistic world, we see that many people are putting God third place. There is work and school, then their is family and social life, and then there is God. And it isn't right.

Fortunately, there are the few hopefuls who remind us exactly why we are doing the work. Like Tumelo, an investigator who bore testimony at Church yesterday, who is preparing to be baptised next week Sunday. His enthusiasm is inspiring.

My invitation to you this week is to see where God is in your life. Is He first place? Or is He third?

I love you, brothers and sisters. God loves you - remember that. Whatever you do, remember that.

In the Field

I am out in the field... no longer training at the School of Prophets (Mission Training Center). Rather, spreading the word in South Africa Durban; more specifically, Botshabelo.

Yes, I am not in KwaZulu-Natal; I am in the Free State, serving in a township west of Lesotho. My companion, Elder Ocitti (hitherto referred to as my Father, a.k.a my Trainer), is from Uganda. And we, he and I, are the only two missionaries in the Botshabelo area (consisting of approximately two million people).

 Let me get started. Our boarding is actually in Bloemfontein, which means we drive out to the area every morning (about 45km). So that means I'm driving. First area, driving a Nissan Hardbody 2.5 in area with potholes. Yea, I'll call them that. Even though there is often a gap in the middle of the road - literally. More sand than road, more holes than landfill. But it's great!

Elder Ocitti is DLT (District Leader and Trainer) for our four man district - which includes Thaba-Nchu. The Elders serving that side are Elders Payne and Agabu (who served with me in the MTC).

So far, much has happened. From the MTC to the airport (meeting a musician from Brazil and an electrical engineer from Italy - Elder Martin and I tracted them). From the airport to the mission home in Durban. President Zackrison and his wife are great. An interview longer than any before and a driving test two hours after arriving. Let me say, waking up at 04:00 and driving an automatic car for the first time as a sudden and unexpected test - not fun. At least I have the experience now, and the authorization to be designated driver now. Which includes daily reports and servicing every 15 000km. We drive 100km a day.

From Durban, I boarded a bus to Bloemfontein. Nine hours on a bus, staying awake until 04:00, only to start working at 06:30 that same day.

And boy, what a journey it's been. We have five baptisms on date, 35 lessons each week, and we still find time to contact, and get home before 09:00. That means a solid seven lessons each day. Fortunately, people in Botshabelo are hospitable. We knock on their door and the first thing they say is, "Dumelang ntati, you can sit down." Often followed with a glass of something to drink.

One of our investigators, whom my companion and I invited to be baptized last week, reminded me so much of when I was investigating. His name is Tumelo, and he'd been taught by missionaries for quite some time. We were teaching him the Restoration, and he expressed that he didn't actually want to join because he noticed that being a member of the Church meant keeping commitments - specifically, covenants made with God. I was prompted to share my experience of only finding out, with certainty, after laying aside all distractions, prepared to follow through with any answer God gave me - and only then did I receive my answer.

We shared with him the first vision, an answer to Joseph Smith's prayer and told him that he would find no answer until he got committed. The Spirit was strong in that lesson - and we asked him, what was he willing to do when God answered. It rained that night - as it did when I received my answer - and I just knew. When we returned two days later he said, "I want to be baptized. I know this is God's Church." My heart was filled with so much joy. And I must say, he's been learning and understanding so much since that decision - participating as if he were already a member.

Getting to know the people has been great - with other powerful experiences along the way.

And then there are also those moments that you would never expect. Like praying in Afrikaans because the only two languages many people understand are Sotho and Afrikaans. Like tracting into Jehovah Witnesses - in Afrikaans - only to find them desiring to Bible bash with their Sotho scriptures... Right, because that's why we're here.

But all in all, it has been great. I found some time to read letters my friends and family left for me - and how grateful I am for the support (even though many expressed not quite understanding why). I am blessed to have people who love me anyway.

Now, a question I shared with family and friends:

What does it mean to us that the Savior has suffered "pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind" (e.g, Alma 7:11), has "descended below all things" (e.g., D&C 88:5), and was "in all points tempted like as we" (e.g., Hebrews 4:15)?

Alma 7:11 teaches us that Christ suffered pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind. D&C 88:5 teaches us that He descended below all things. And Hebrews 4:15 teaches us that He was tempted just as we were.

This tells us that He came down from above, from being King of kings, to be human just as we are. He descended below all things - he had no money, no home, no worldly possessions. The Creator of Heaven and earth came to the world with nothing, being born in a manger, and was tempted with all manner of temptations. Still, He persevered. Still, He never gave in.

For me, this means He truly knows us and everything we could ever go through. For me, this means that He loves and cares for us more than we could ever imagine. For me, this means more than words can describe. And, for me, this means that I owe Him all that I am - even though I can never repay Him for what He has done.

And as I close today, I'd just like to say, in two weeks I've seen more witnesses to God's love and mercy than ever before. I've felt His love and seen His work - and I know, without a doubt, that this Gospel is true. We learn from history that prior to 1820, the Christian world had grown to a place where they feared God more than they trusted in Him - where they prayed because of commandment, while some were taught not to pray at all. And it was only after the restoration that people were reminded that prayer is a two-way communication.

I reiterate, only after the restoration did people (from various sects and creeds of Christianity) begin praying to God for answers. Only after the restoration did people once again begin believing in the power of God and His love for man. Only after the restoration, did people begin praying to develop a relationship with our God. Now I don't know about you, but a religion that reminded the world that God still cares is one I'm willing to take a chance on.

Day One at the MTC

First day at the Mission Training Center; it has finally arrived. I am safe, I am well, and I am happy.

Let me start with the day. Basic morning packing and a drive down to Roodepoort, where I was welcomed by President and Sister Collins. I received my name tags, only to find that I am not the only Elder Smith at the MTC.

Yes, there is another Smith. Shocker! His name is Christian Scott Smith from Washington, USA. Fortunately, I guess, he's not serving in South Africa Durban, rather, in Ugandah, and he's confidently loud (unlike myself).

I was the first to arrive at the room I'll be sleeping, so I got to choose my bed (room 8). The place is really nice. Clean.

We filled out a personal history questionnaire and did our medical history, just for admin purposes. And then I had an interview with President Collins. Guess what? I forgot my suit jacket. You see, I said I'd forget something. They were, however, kind enough to lend me a spare they had in one of the garages.

The interview went well. We did Doctrine and Covenants 4:2:

"Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day."

So this is my invitation to you, take these words to heart. Serve the Lord, our God, with all your heart; love the work, love the people, and care for them. Then with all your might; be determined, and give a concerted effort. Study in your mind, think of the Lord and all His blessing; "let your thoughts be garnished with virtue". And never forget to labour with your strength, propelled by might and determination, to do the Lord's work wherever ye may be.

We just had lunch; meat pie, chips and veggies. I'm getting to know the people slowly and look forward to what the MTC has to offer.

Oh, and before I forget, the setting apart was amazing. I met with Bishop Kirchmann and President Msiza at Alberton Chapel with my mother and sister. The blessing was powerful, the Spirit was felt, and I'm truly looking forward to the fulfilling of these words.

May the Lord bless you, and may your days be filled with opportunities.

Called to Serve

If missionaries found me, then why wouldn’t I do the same for another?

You’ve got it! I have received my call to labour in the Lord’s vineyard, to gather the wheat from amidst the tares. Yes, I know, cheesy reference, but brilliant hymn.

On the second of December 2014, I entered into President Msiza’s office to have my interview with him regarding my desire to serve. I was ill at the time, so our conversation was short, and the interview quick. Two days later, on the fourth of December 2014, he handed in my recommend to the Area Office here in South East Africa.

I remember the contemplations with others regarding how long it’d be before I received my call (and where I would go). President Msiza said, “Three to six weeks.” Others commented, “That’s quick.” But I didn’t realise exactly how quick until I actually received my call, exactly three weeks after entering the Area Office. That’s right; I received my mission call on Christmas day.

I remember waking up relatively early, especially considering how late I went to bed. I know, early to bed early to rise. I’m working on it. I was still chatting to a few return missionaries over Facebook. My mom was still in bed and my sister’s door was closed. My phone started to ring at 06:15. Who’d be calling at this hour? I asked. I left it.

After about an hour had passed, I had a look at LDS Tools, which informed me that I’d received a missed call from, dun dun dun, President Msiza. I phoned back immediately and felt my heart stop mere seconds before he said, “I have a present for you. Come pick it up at Alberton chapel at 09:00.”

I was excited, but in the cringe, screaming on the inside, silent kind of way. I walked up to my mom and she said, “What?!”

“My mission call is here!” I exclaimed.

I jumped into the shower, scavenged for clothes to wear. Slacks, slacks, slacks, where are you? White shirt, white shirt, white shir- I need an iron. Tie, tie, tie, where are all the ties?! Oh, wait, what?! Fine, I’ll wear that one. Socks, odd as usual, but no one will see that. Mommy, can I use the car?

And I was off. I arrived at the chapel exactly fifteen minutes early, ready to crawl out of my skin. And then he arrived, three minutes late. Shhh, leave me, I’m paranoid about time.

We gave our season’s greetings and departed almost as soon as he arrived. He was on his way to Centurion to spend the day with family.

I had my mission call! Greatest present ever! I messaged the missionaries to organise them coming over and spoke to my mom about the most appropriate time. 18:00 it was. I had to wait until 18:00 before I could do anything.

We went to my aunt’s house for the day and had Christmas lunch with her and my cousin. We caught up, chatted about stuff, chatted about the gospel. I got my cousin to download Gospel Library! So excited. Nobody in my family is a member, and very few are happy about it. It was great.

The not so great part was saying goodbye to my aunt. She was crying, and it almost made me rethink my mission, but we were able to reassure her that I wouldn’t be gone for too long, and that I will be back.

We went home, and found the missionaries right behind us. Perfectly on time! That never happens.

We got inside, cameras came out and I opened my call.

Durban South Africa Mission.

19 February 2015.

I didn’t even have my expected 120 days. Not even half that. The Lord truly does want me out on the mission field, as Elder Tew always said. Oh, and Elder Zulu was right. We sat one day before I was even baptised and Elder Zulu said that I’d be serving in his home area (Durban). Kuddos to him for receiving revelation on my behalf. It was probably a good guess.

Anyway, stay in touch! See Called to Serve. Sorry I don’t have a video for you to see; when Elders Broadhead or Wegrowski go home they’ll upload it to YouTube and I’ll have someone link it to LDS Smith. Can’t wait!

I, Finally, Did It: I Went to the Temple

Early 2013, it was an interesting Sunday--a curious one indeed. I had just come to the realisation that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints existed and stumbled upon inklings of the Temple I’d soon come to haunt over… I had just met missionaries (of any sort) for the first time. I emphasise met, because it recently occurred to me that I had, in fact, seen missionaries once before - but that’s another story; one for another time.

Today’s story is more about the Temple, otherwise known as the House of the Lord, and my long waited journey to - finally - enter in. Yes, on the 10th of January 2015, this longwinded, overly analytical, secretly critical (okay, maybe not so much secretly, says my sister’s laughs; “Tell me another one,” she’d banter), research obsessed Latter-day Saint took his first steps into rooms otherwise restricted and felt the touch of the delicate holy garments for the first time. It was a morn to be remembered.

Let’s see, the day started out quite early - well, not really. I woke up at 05:00, jumped into the shower, suited up and waited for the missionaries to arrive at 06:00. I had scheduled for the nine o’clock session and needed to be in the Temple by 07:30 (and the Distribution Centre opened at 07:00). The plan was that I’d drive the three of us to the Temple to save on petrol (or gas, as the Americans call it), but for one reason or another they decided to follow in their car (something about the APs). Oh, and they weren’t allowed to give me a lift. Shrug. So I put the address for the Johannesburg South Africa Temple into the GPS and they (Elders Broadhead and Wegrowski) followed.

It took us down a route neither of us had been before and we arrived twenty three minutes later - as opposed to forty five minutes later, as expected. “Sometimes GPSs do come in handy,” I remarked, not realising the fatality to come (stay tuned).

And we were there. Myself… and the Elders, who were kind enough to escort me through the Temple my first time ‘round. See the minio-- I mean, men on the right.

We made our venture through the Temple grounds - with Elder Wegrowski’s continued comments on how small ‘twas - and took pictures along the way. I decided, since so many pictures of me existed (of which, I had practically none), to have the Elders take a couple of shots using my phone… I still don’t have any photos from that morning. The reason? Spoilers. Suffice to say, the Elders have pictures from that morning and I do not.

We went to the Distribution Centre as it opened and entered into the Temple earlier than arranged. I was greeted by a few Priesthood Holders and the Sister with whom I had made arrangements with. Don’t ask me about names-- that’s foreign territory. I remember their faces and our conversations, but names, now that’s something I’ve never been good at.

I gave Elder Broadhead his Escort tag, which I’m not entirely certain he wanted, but I wanted him there and he didn’t exactly say no; and, from there, we headed into my initiatories (a little early). My mind was blown. I sat there, as I waited, with the image before me of Moses giving blessings at an ancient Temple. Everything made sense.

“The Old Testament means something,” I said.

Elder Broadhead smiled. He and his companion were conversing over Utahan names with another American whose name eludes me now. They were well in their comfort zone, which was good, because my mind was racing. Everything I had read, everything I had studied, came pouring through. I saw, in my mind’s eye, the Tabernacle of Moses construct itself around us with the ancient prophets themselves walking through.

The awkward candid shot.

I think of the specifics, and how detailed they are, as the words echo through my mind once again. I felt the Spirit testify and truth resound. I felt the room fill as I moved along. One after the other, I was blown away.

Isaiah 62:2 was now mine - the meaning was clear and I felt new. As Meghan (a fellow YSA from my home ward) said, “It felt like Eragon. I finally have it.”

We went on to discuss other things which I cannot discuss, but I do remember - as it ended - Elder Broadhead taking the Doctrine & Covenants, showing me his favourite verse therein.

D&C 38:32 “Wherefore, for this cause I gave unto you the commandment that ye should go to the Ohio; and there I will give unto you my law; and there you shall be endowed with power from on high;”

Good verse. I also pointed out, “This isn’t Ohio.” and showed him my favourite.

D&C 95:8 “Yea, verily I say unto you, I gave unto you a commandment that you should build a house, in the which house I design to endow those whom I have chosen with power from on high;”

We moved to the Chapel where we went through hymns from a white hymn book and then read
scriptures as we waited. That was when Brother Farquharson came in. After some time I rose to greet Sister Farquharson. I was filled with glee. The only one missing was Dylan.

And then came the Endowment session. Never have I ever cried for a movie before, but this wasn’t just a movie. I felt touched by every word and questions I’d debated with missionaries, ones from other churches as well, were finally answered. EVERYTHING MADE SENSE. Everything fit in. My mind was whirling and my soul was soaring. I was blessed. I am blessed. I had the Farquharsons on my left and the missionaries on my right.

As I walked into the Celestial Room, I was greeted by Brother Farquharson (Kev) and Sister Farquharson (Shan). My soul was filled with so much joy. My spiritual family was there.

I won’t say much more, because it was a sacred, beautiful experience, but know that it has been on my mind every day (and night) since.

We went out onto Temple Grounds and began taking photos (as is tradition with Kev).

I’d just like to say, the Temple is a blessing. It has opened my eyes to so much more - and I know that there is still so much more to learn. Granted, I now know all the doctrines of the Church and it’s phenomenal. I could never have expected this, through all the Anti-Mormon research, from that heart-wrenching, sickening video of the Temple I saw mere moments after discovering the Church, and in all my scepticism, heard-heartedness, critique and stubbornness.

I’ve come a long way. Brave young men taught me in all my defences, but persisted, as did the Spirit. I can honestly and truly say that the Gospel has changed my life. I’m not the same as I was before, and I won’t be the same today as I am tomorrow, and how beautiful it is that it is so. How beautiful is it that persons can grow and progress.

And, when I think about it, the Temple is one of the main reasons I’ve continued. I could have stopped seeing the missionaries. I could have stopped reading the Book of Mormon. I could’ve stopped asking questions and doing research. Especially since I was convinced that it wasn’t true, or rather, not of God. But I didn’t. I wanted to know more. No, I needed to know more. Because, deep down, I knew the things I read about the Temple weren’t true. I knew that something was inside there and I needed to find it. The missionaries were quiet – they didn’t say a word. The journey was mine. And now I can say, I’ve found it. I know what’s inside the Temple and the answer is truth. The answer is God. The answer is purpose. The answer is meaning.

It is exactly as Sister Shan said, “No other Church answers the questions ‘Where do I come from?’, ‘Why am I here?’, and ‘Where do I go after?’ as well as the restored gospel.” In fact, no other Church comes close.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints truly is God’s Church once again established on the earth. Joseph Smith did a mighty work in bringing it back as God’s chosen Prophet. God loves us. And He has given us Temples. Let us keep our eyes set on them. For they truly are the House of the Lord.

“How far is Heaven? Not very far. In the House of the Lord, it is right where you are.”

I'm still a new-blood, of a year and roughly a month, so there's still much to learn, much to understand-- questions eating away. I'll be patient, I'll be diligent, but I still need help. I'll be zealous at times and confused at others. I need to be tried, reproofed and corrected. I am a convert-- and mainstream Christianity is not nearly the same as restorative Christianity, much less Mormonism. Even though, my sights are set; the Spirit is my compass and the Temple is my North.

Priest's Mission Experience

Now, I've mentioned the Priest's mission experience a couple of times already, so here's a post all about it. Yes, this time, there will be pictures.

It was on the 12th of April 2014. Brother Kevin Farquharson and other stake leaders organised a day for Priests to pair off with missionaries for the day. My companion was Elder Deichman.

Meet Elder Deichman

The day started off... okay, the night started out at the MTC (Mission Training Centre) - now this wasn't my first time at the MTC, but that's another story. We were supposed to start at 6:30pm, but this is Mormon time and African time combined, so we started at 7:30pm instead. New missionaries taught us as we pretended to be investigators (this is what the MTC is for - to train young men and women to preach the gospel to strangers in two short weeks).

We moved on to Kempton Park Ward where families kindly agreed to let us stay for the night - we were treated as missionaries from get go. With greetings and preparations set, i wrote in my journal, said my prayers amd we were off to bed.

It was an "early" morning as we followed the missionary schedule. I say that because 6am is still quite reasonable. We said our prayers, had our showers, cleaned up and left the family with a prayer.

At the chapel, many young men found enjoyment throwing balls at one another. The excitement continued as breakfast arrived and the seminar began. We learnt of mission and the secret of missionary work, which isn't - or really, shouldn't - be a secret. That secret is work. We went over PMG (Preach My Gospel) and then moved on to be paired off with a missionary.

Now we're all caught up. We sang hymns, had people talk and then had lunch.

Lunch!

I didn't know if the food had been blessed, or not, so we did so just in case.

Yes, I'm wearing tekkies. Don't judge me.

We then moved out to our areas. Elder Deichman and I had Birchacres where he'd been serving for the past seven months. He had appointments set up (only one of which pulled through). It was a young lady (still in high school) who met missionaries elsewhere. We discussed the Bible and the Book of Mormon, just getting to know her and her sister. She had a powerful testimony of Jesus Christ already, which was phenomenal since nobody in her family taught her or even believed themselves. She told us about her own missionary efforts at school which was great.

The not so great part was how her dog peed on my bag and she gave us coke which I drank. The first and only time I drank coke as a member (and yes, I know, it's not technically against the Word of Wisdom).

We tracted a great deal and handed out pass along cards. There were many drunk people and quite a few rude people, but it was a great experience in the end. We met another Jonathan which was great.

Elder Deichman and I discussed many things and, as it turns out, we share a great deal of common interest in music. He wants to be a psychologist. He has a strong testimony, especially considering how his brothers did not. FYI, he was born in covenant.

Once the walking was over, we returned to report what we had done, sang and heard people bear their testimonies. It was great.

IDK

Brother Kevin wanted a funny photo of us, but - as it turns out - Elder Deichman was just as indecisive as I was.

What do you think?

We really don't know.

So we settled on this.

We then took group photos. This was funny; I was standing right behind Elder Deichman when he said, "I need to find my conpanion. Jonothan!"

Elder Pulley! On the right.

The group of Priests and Missionaries

Don't ask me what's happening here.

So that was it. A day I'll never forget. With moments I'll all always cherish. Who knows? I may just run in to Elder Deichman again one of these days.

One Year and Counting

Exactly one year ago, as of 08:22 CAT this morning (15 December 2014), I was confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. One year, exactly, and what a year it’s been.

I’ve been to the Temple (baptisms only) and distribution centre, completed this year’s Institute modules, done Home Teaching, received both the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthood, given talks, taught lessons, blessed and passed the Sacrament, given blessings, gone out teaching with the missionaries, been called as a Ward Missionary, attended PEC and coordination meetings, handed in my mission papers, completed tithing settlement, attended firesides (spoke to Elder Hamilton) and went to activities (ward, stake and multi-stake), participated in Helping Hands projects and the Stake Fair, and even experienced mission life as a Priest through a coordinated Centurion Stake activity.

And to think, just over a year ago I tried to prove the Church wrong.

This is my life now. I have people waiting to talk to me in places almost too far to schedule, daily conversations over WhatsApp and Facebook and intense discussions with friends and family – all because, “I want to hear Jonothan’s explanation first.”

It can be frustrating at times, though. Often, I find that me teaching them goes well, but the moment I involve missionaries everything seems to go awry. They talk to me, but not to them (and this goes both ways – missionaries and informal investigators).

I have a friend who asks me, and only me, questions about the scriptures and gospel doctrine and principles. I have an inactive member just hanging on a thread, making excuses every time I mention the word missionary, but openly discusses with me and constantly requests that I visit. I have a family friend waiting for me to tell him about the Church, but won’t see the missionaries, listen to anyone else or read anything related until such time as I find a chance to visit (which may very well be good with regards to Anti-Mormon literature).

I’ve had had positive and enthusiastic referrals who simply fell off the radar after meeting with (or trying to meet with) missionaries. I’ve had missionaries stand up investigators and investigators stand up missionaries. I’ve had cancelled appointments and wrong addresses and all no-shows.

But the change I see in my friends and family since I joined the Church has been remarkable. My immediate family sees the missionaries every other Sunday. My friends are constantly on my case about when I leave for mission and my best friend (who happens to be agnostic) witnessed my ordination to Elder out of his own free will; seriously, he asked me if he could come.

Beyond that, I’ve made friends trying to preach the gospel and planted seeds wherever I could.

As bad as the response often is, beauty almost always shines through.

It feels like a decade has passed, but it’s only been a year. And I am grateful for all the people who came into my life to make a difference. I’m grateful for the missionaries from the start, even though I often complain. It is thanks to them that I am on the path I am on; for they guided me towards truth and, in all their patience, I finally accepted.

So I felt like making a list of all the people who helped make me the Latter-day Saint I am today.

• Kevin Farquharson, who I knew before the world was.
• Shan Farquharson, who sussed me out from the start.
• Dylan Farquharson, who invited me over the night I met the missionaries.
• Elder Beenfield (Daniel Beenfield), the first missionary I ever met.
• Elder Black (Jordan Black), who lied about not being American.
• Elder Dalton (Dakota Dalton), who owes me a photo – now that I think about it.
• Elder Baker (Alex Baker), who I taught about John’s tarrying.
• Elder Zulu (Siyabonga Armstrong Zulu), the first non-American missionary I ever met.
• Elder Tew (David Tew), who I saw as an older brother.
• Elder Mukarati (Alphaa Alphanum Mukarati), the first foreign, non-American missionary I met.
• Elder Day (Brandon Day), who I’ll meet at Tribulation.
• Elder Deichman, my first unofficial companion (Priest's mission experience).
• Elder Carpenter, who made me shake my head more than twice.
• Elder Pulley, who sang me a generic song I swear he plagiarised.
• Elder McAllister, who took me teaching everywhere (most of the time).
• Elder Martin, who loves Diablo III – as well.
• Elder Broadhead, who hugged me without my permission.

So this is my journey thus far. Missionary work seems to be the focus, but soon I’ll be doing my dad’s work and have my chaotic family tree up and running on the genealogy site. Then comes my endowments and then I’m off to mission. I hope I at least get to experience a couple of Institute lessons – it is Doctrine & Covenants, after all.

From Aaron to Melchizedek

To quote the much acclaimed Isaiah,

"For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:" (Isaiah 28:10)

For every step becomes a journey and every line a story. From infant to elder, child to parent, and scholar to teacher; we're always learning, constantly growing. And the Lord would have it no other way.

Today, on the 23rd of November 2014, I took another step; from Priest to Elder - from Aaron to Melchizedek. And, oh, how glorious 'twas.

I woke this morning to find it raining - another confirmation from our Heavenly Father - and recalled the rain the day I was baptised and the day I was confirmed (and ordained and set apart as Priest) and the day I was set apart as Ward Missionary. In fact, it rained the night I decided to get baptised - how grateful I am to see that Heavenly Father would choose to use the same signs to confirm that this is His path for me.

Sustained at Stake Conference with fellow friends and Saints and family. My mom was there, my sister was there, my best friend was there, my sister's friend was there, and my other family (Brother Kevin and Sister Shan) was there. Unfortunately, Dylan was unable to make it.

Words of a hymn we sang (Onward, Christian Soldiers) emanates still:

"One in hope and doctrine
One in Charity"

The only thing that could've made this day better... Elder Tew (David Tew). Sadly, he's in America and it was 3am for him when the ordination took place. Speaking of which, I didn't record it for him. I should have. I wanted to. Shoust.

I can only remember some of what was mentioned as Brother Kevin acted as spokesperson (with a High Councillor and Elder Broadhead in the circle). Fortunately, there were witnesses, and together we can remember the Lord's council to me. I do remember that I need to council with my mom, family and Church leaders and that the Lord expects, also, that I be a missionary here, now, and when I serve a full time mission.

I'm grateful that I've been entrusted with the Priesthood which belongs to the Saviour Himself. I know that I need to keep the high standards set and that I need to magnify my callings and serve others to the best of my ability (the Lord will take care of the rest). I want to, and I know it is possible.

I'm grateful that my family was there. Yes, everyone that was with me today is my family. Their support and encouragement is truly appreciated and I love them - even though I may not say or express it as often as I should.

This is the Lord's plan for all His children; that they come nearer to Him and experience the blessings the Priesthood has to offer. And through this, we can all experience true joy and happiness. I know this, and I know that God knows this, and I cannot deny it. (To paraphrase Joseph Smith - God's chosen prophet in these Latter-days).

What is a Missionary?

Merriam-Webster defines being a missionary as follows:

“1mis·sion·ary noun \ˈmi-shə-ˌner-ē\
: a person who is sent to a foreign country to do religious work (such as to convince people to join a religion or to help people who are sick, poor, etc.)”

I find this answer somewhat curious. Even in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, people think that the missionaries are the people who go from door-to-door, finding people to preach to, teaching them, and baptising them. Yes, it does fulfil a role, but this (predominantly) is the role of a Full-time Missionary.

Let’s get nit-picky with words and their definitions. A Full-time Missionary is someone who spends his/her time teaching the Gospel, exclusively. Usually, they are sent to a foreign country, but sometimes not. These are the people who go knocking on doors, handing out Scriptures, teach the Gospel, and encourage baptism. This is what most people see when they think of missionary work.

A famous Baptist preacher said, “Every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter.”

How does this influence our understanding of what a missionary is? Does this mean that it is every Christian’s responsibility to spread the word of God? Does this mean that every Christian needs to go on a mission “to a foreign country to do religious work”?

Let’s consider 1 Peter 3:15 (KJV):

“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:”

A Church publication, True to the Faith, states:

“Missionary work includes helping and supporting those who join the Church.”

So what does this mean? It means we need to be ready to answer for our beliefs at all time; our testimony needs to be intact. It means that we spread the Gospel most effectively when sharing our testimonies with others. We become missionaries by so doing, and helping those who join the Church. So, no, we don’t need to go on a mission “to a foreign country to do religious work” to be a missionary. We can do this at home. In fact, we should be doing this at home.

Joseph Smith once said, “After all that has been said, the greatest and most important duty is to preach the Gospel.”

The Church has been continuously reminded, “Every member a missionary.”

“The Lord's Church has always been a missionary church.”

I mean, it’s the first promise we make as we enter into the waters of baptism; to take upon us the name of Jesus Christ. We, therefore, are all missionaries – if we hold true to our covenants… if we truly love Jesus Christ.

In the Church there are various missionary titles, all working towards the same common goal – to build the Kingdom of God. We have the Full-time Missionaries (who serve for 18 to 24 months where service is actually key), as previously mention, but we also have Member Missionaries. What are Member Missionaries? This is everyone who has been baptised and confirmed as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Our duty is make friends, look after, look out for, share with and teach. We assist the missionaries as best as we can and share our testimonies with our friends. We do Family History and then go to the Temple to do work for our dead. We visit the sick, the poor, and the orphans. We teach our children and live as righteous examples for others to follow. We keep the commandments. And this makes us missionaries, even Member Missionaries.

In addition to the Church’s Full-time Missionary program is the Church-Service Missionary program. This is a part-time effort for a period of 6 to 24 months wherein assistance is given to many Church departments and operations such as media, employment, mission offices, addiction recovery, family history, and much much more. This requires more work to assisting secular and spiritual wellbeing.

Then we have Ward Missionaries. They do what Member Missionaries should be doing, prepare investigators for the missionaries, assist missionaries when requested with service, tracting and teaching, encourage members to seek out missionary opportunities, and fellowship. They’re basically ragdolls for the Ward Mission Leader, Full-time Missionaries, Bishop and Ward in general. Act under directions and forgo requests.

This brings you to me. I am a Member Missionary and a Ward Missionary. I, personally, don’t see the difference, as I continued doing the exact same thing when I was called and set apart… except maybe a few extra meetings. But hey, I love it. I get to spend time with missionaries and members, teach new people, live some of the missionary life at home, and do the Lord’s work. I am grateful to have been chosen, even if I’m the only Ward Missionary doing anything.

I will always remember the times out with Elder Tew, Elder Mukurati, Elder Day, Elder Carpenter, Elder Pulley, Elder Mead, Elder McAllister, Elder Harmaans, Elder McNeish, Elder Melese, Elder Martin, Elder Broadhead, and all the other missionaries whose names I’ve forgotten; I remember the lessons, I remember the discussions.

It is my testimony that the Lord expects us to live His Gospel and share His message. It is my testimony that we are all missionaries, and oh what joy that brings. Our Heavenly Father loves us all and, if we love Him, why not share His message and do His work? This Gospel brings us such joy, so it is only natural that we are willing to share it with all those around us.

If you are ever Iinterested in meeting with missionaries, you can visit www.mormon.org/missionaries. There you are able to find missionaries near you and uncover answers to questions you may have.

References
Merriam-Webster, 2014. missionary. [Online] Available at: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/missionary

Mormon.org, n.d. A Missionary Church. [Online] Available at: http://www.mormon.org/values/missionary-work [Accessed 12 November 2014].

2011. Chapter 28: Missionary Service: A Holy Calling, a Glorious Work. In: Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith. Salt Lake City, Utah: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, p. 327.

Spurgeon, C. H., 1873. A Sermon and a Reminiscence. s.l., Sword and Trowel.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2004. True to the Faith. Salt Lake City, Utah: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.