Dear Elders and Sisters,
This past week I was powerfully reminded of how grateful I
am for the Plan of Salvation and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. When
difficulties arise it becomes essential to hold fast to the most fundamental
things in which we believe. In the words of the Apostle Paul, “Let us hold fast
the profession of our faith without wavering” (Heb. 10:23). Sister Blickenstaff
and I were shocked and saddened at the sudden loss of one of our “little sons”
(Alma 56:39). We love and miss him but our faith is sure that we will see him
again.
We have definitely felt buoyed up by the faith and prayers
of the entire Church in our behalf. We are amazed by the strength and dignity
with which the Hampton family has responded to this trial of their faith. They
have been in our prayers continually since last Tuesday. They are being blessed
by what Paul referred to as “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding”
(Phil. 4:7). It is a peace of which I can testify, as have felt it too in my
own challenging circumstances. It is the Comforter, whom Christ promised would
come to us in time of need. We invite you also to pray for the
driver and his family. They too are suffering from the unavoidable accident, and
need the healing power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
I am also grateful for [his companion], who has been remarkably
calm amidst this sudden storm. I believe through your prayers, he has also
received the sustaining influence of the Holy Ghost and perhaps even the
ministering of angels. I also believe
part of the reason he could be so at peace is that he and his companion had a
good relationship with each other, they were obedient, and they were diligently
working each day according to their purpose. I know that these are the reasons
that Sister Blickenstaff and I could be so at peace as well.
My dear elders and sisters, live each day to the fullest. Love
God and serve Him with all of your might and strength. Have charity and love
towards your fellowman, starting with your companion. Listen to the promptings
of the Holy Spirit and do not put off till tomorrow that which you should do
today. Exercise judgment and care in all that you do. Please know that Sister
Blickenstaff and I love and pray for you and would do anything we could to help
you find happiness and satisfaction in this great work of salvation. It is
difficult and requires our best effort every day, all day. There is no greater
work in which we could be engaged and no better place than Taiwan to which we
could be assigned!
Remember: More happiness awaits you than you have ever experienced
as you labor among His children (PMG, p. v).
President Blickenstaff
Mentor of Champions
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