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The Blessings of Missionary Service
Many people have helped me arrive at the place where I am today, serving as a missionary in the India New Delhi Mission. I was not born a member of the Church or even a Christian. It was a childhood friend who introduced me to the gospel.
After I was baptized, I had an institute teacher who nourished me with the word of God every week and he helped me to always have a desire to go on a mission. Whenever I didn’t attend institute class, he came to my home to find out why and to be sure I was at the next class. I also had a bishop who always kept me busy with a calling and with Church activities. Back then, I felt they were little pushy, but because of them, today I am happy, gaining a lot of experience helping many people to come unto Christ as a missionary!
President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910-2008) said: “We must make an increasingly substantial effort to assist [new members] as they find their way. Every one of them needs three things: a friend, a responsibility, and nurturing with ‘the good word of God’”.1
This was true in my life. I had all three of those things. It was very easy to stay active even though I was the only member in my family. I never felt alone. My ward members took care of me. It’s been six years since I started following Jesus Christ. He has always helped me very much through my ward members.
It’s been 21 months since I have been on my mission and time is just flying by! The other night I was reading my journal entries for this time last year. I was in Lajpat Nagar and I was going through some experiences that I viewed as problems. I have realized that problems are always with me but now I have changed. I remember complaining about life and some of the people around me but now those things don’t bother me anymore. My mission is shaping me to become a better person in life. I am glad that I made a choice to come on a mission. I can really see how it has blessed my life.
Another great blessing which I received after coming on a mission is a better understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. As I have relied upon the Atonement, I have received strength to face life’s challenges.
I know that the Book of Mormon is true, and I know that the Church is true. I love the work that I am doing, and I love Jesus Christ.
Remember, hard is always good because hard makes you become strong!