The Sacrifices I Made to Join the Church
I gave up a lot to join the Church, but I’ve been given much in return.
The author lives in Scotland.
For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the word sacrifice means so much. When I think of sacrifice, I think of Jesus Christ in the Garden in Gethsemane or on the cross on Golgotha. But simple, daily sacrifice has been made a real endeavor for most members of the Church, myself included since I became a member.
I was born and raised in Scotland by goodly parents, and it wasn’t until I was 18 that I realized there was something better out there. I always knew there was a God, but I only recently learned that He has a personal connection to me.
When I first joined the Church, my family was fine with it. But my friends cast a lot of doubts. They had researched the Church and believed a lot of false information about it. They called the Church a cult, told me that it was filled with lies and that I was crazy for joining it. But I knew in my heart that this Church is true. I don’t think anything can change that. And when I told my friends that I knew it was true, their comments turned to ridicule.
That night, I prayed for help with my friends. I didn’t want to lose them, but I didn’t want to be the subject of their ridicule any longer. After I said my prayer, I remember getting this distinct impression: “If these people are good friends of yours, then they will stick by you. They won’t mock you.” I followed that impression, and when things didn’t change, I let those friendships go, which was hard, but since then I have found great friends in the Church—friends who will stand by me, no matter what.
Another sacrifice I was spiritually guided to make was my job. Before I joined the Church, I worked in a pub, and although no gospel teachings go against this, I didn’t feel good about it. I started searching for a new job and found one rather quickly at a restaurant that serves very little alcohol and is managed by one of the kindest families I have ever met!
So, all in all, even though our membership in the Church may require sacrifice, whether it be time, comfort, or whatever else, those sacrifices are worth it. My sacrifices may be miniscule compared to others’, but they were difficult all the same, and they’ve strengthened me—as all of our daily sacrifices and time we give to the Lord will strengthen and refine all of us.
I know that this is the one true Church of Jesus Christ. I know that we have a prophet on earth today, and for this I’m so glad. I’m thankful for the testimony I have and the revelation we can all receive through being worthy members of the Church. I know that if we try and love one another as Christ did, we will be truly blessed. I love this gospel—it has changed who I am.
Nicky is a chef de partie on a small Scottish island just off the west coast. He enjoys mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing. He is an only child and is very close with his parents, despite being the only member of the Church in his family. He was baptized at the age of 18 and hopes to serve a mission when he can!