The Joyful Burden of Discipleship

When Elder Rasband asked President Monson what he should do when he was visiting an area that had experienced a natural disaster President Monson asked him to telly the people that the property loved them, that the prophet was praying for them, and that the prophet appreciated the work of those who were helping in the recovery efforts.

Just a week after the massive storm struck, I was assigned to visit the area where homes and belongings were strewn across the flattened, ravaged neighborhoods.

Before I left, I spoke with our beloved prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, who relishes such errands for the Lord. With respect borne not only of his office but also of his goodness, I asked, “What do you want me to do? What do you want me to say?”

He tenderly took my hand, as he would have done with each one of the victims and each of those helping with the devastation had he been there, and said:

“First, tell them I love them.

“Second, tell them I am praying for them.

“Third, please thank all those who are helping.”

This afternoon each of us will raise our right arm to the square and sustain the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is not a mere formality, nor is it reserved for those called to general service. To sustain our leaders is a privilege; it comes coupled with a personal responsibility to share their burden and to be disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Will we respond with love when an opportunity is before us to make a visit or a phone call, write a note, or spend a day meeting the needs of someone else?

To follow His perfect example is to recognize and honor the Savior, who has borne all of our burdens through His sacred and saving Atonement, the ultimate act of service. What He asks of each one of us is to be able and willing to take up the joyful “burden” of discipleship.…

Reaching out to rescue one another, under any condition, is an eternal measure of love.

May we all find the joy that comes from the sacred service of bearing one another’s burdens, even those simple and small, is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.