Day 3 in the MTC

Today June 27th marked 171 years to the day of the martyrdom of the prophet Joseph Smith. The 12 apostles knew it and they let us know it. Each one testified of the divinity of Joseph's calling today. Elder Nelson, Elder Uchtdorf, Elder Cook, Elder Ballard and Elder Bednar specifically taught us about Joseph's prophetic calling. 

I thought of Joseph's journal. And the prophecy that is coming to pass in this, the dispensation of the fullness of times. The last dispensation. Joseph Smith's History: He called me by name, and said unto me that he was a messenger sent from the presence of God to me, and that his name was Moroni; that God had a work for me to do; and that my name should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken of among all people. 

There have been many apostasy's. Adam, Noah, the Nephites, and even the Christians after Jesus crucifixion and the apostles were killed. There will not be another great apostasy. The Book of Mormon stands as the witness that despite Joseph the man's frailties and imperfections (of which we all have) he was the Lords chosen prophet for the latter days in preparation for the Lords 2nd coming. We are preparing by flooding the earth with the Book of Mormon (over 100 million copies printed and distributed to date) and tens of thousands of missionaries and members bearing witness of the truth. 

A few days before he died, Elder Perry recorded his testimony for the mission presidents seminar. He rejoiced in his own mission to Illinois and Ohio. He had a "remarkable" experience forming a branch in Marion Ohio. He wants us to help the missionaries (and I thought of our children) recognize the remarkable experiences happening around us all the time. Miracles are prevalent. 

I thought of Nephi's interaction with the Holy Ghost..."Look!" The spirit told Nephi and we will See. We can help others to Look and See the remarkable experiences and miracles around us. 

It was a delight to see Sister Shanti De Ruyter. She will be serving in Mongolia. She and her companion carried a magnificent spirit of light and service. She taught us a few Mongolian words. Whoa, it was complex! We know she will be excellent. 

We also visited with Elder Sitati from Africa. He visited Newbury Park in February. It was great to meet his wife. He spoke so highly of her and he treated her with so much respect and kindness. 

We love you and are praying for each of you. Pray for your missionaries, pray for opportunities to open your mouths. It is a blessing to have and to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.