As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and as someone who is what we call a "priesthood holder", I feel that it is my sacred duty to help as much people as I can to come closer to the Savior. And as I also fill my responsibility as a Missionary Training Center teacher, I would like to a few thoughts on what it is like become a missionary, how it feels like to be in the mission, and share a few advise how to make the most of your missionary experience. And since there seems to be some surge that I feel that is happening as what the prophets have seen in our days: "hastening the work".
This may sound pretty generic as per many return missionaries would almost say the exact thing that a lot of them would advise. But I would like to make a focus more on what does it mean to have a purpose when you are actually set apart as a full-time representative of Jesus Christ.
"My Purpose- the Doctrine of Christ"
As an MTC teacher, it is very essential for all the missionaries to truly understand their purpose. Within all the things we train the missionaries for, it is always related with the "Doctrine of Christ". Some may ask; "What is the Doctrine of Christ?" Well, the answer is pretty simple. Let me site you the purpose of a missionary:
"Our purpose is to invite others to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ & His atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, & enduring to the end." - Preach My Gospel, p.1
Basically, the Doctrine of Christ is also known as the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is comprised of the 5 basic principles of the gospel. First, faith in Jesus Christ, second repentance, then baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and lastly, endure to the end.
But there is something more than to teaching and preaching the gospel. It's actually learning how to love people that you come along with. The Savior has said that as we have love Him, we should love one another.(John 15:12) And the moving force for this work is basically that love you have for the Lord and for others.
"Therefore, what?"
We live in a world where we want to learn so many things in life. But very seldom do we utilize those knowledge to become wisdom by putting things into actions. And many things we learn are not being used. Even if it is used, it's done for the right reason. Nevertheless, the doctrine of Christ is used to help others open heaven's blessings to be poured to them by keeping commandments, making covenants, and living a righteous life.
"Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh.." And with that freedom, it gives us so much opportunity to know what are the consequences as we try to choose the correct choices that we get to see in our lives. "For behold, this is my work and my glory; to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of men."
Conclusion
I don't want to make anyone feel that there are too many things that would make you want to give up or back out on anyone's desire to go on a mission. But let me make this sure: You never go on a mission for you, for your family, your friends, or even your ward. You go on a mission because first, you love the Lord. Second, you love "your neighbor as thyself" that you want what is best for you. And with all honesty, a mission is hard. But having the regrets on not serving because of petty reasons is even harder, And with much preparation, fasting and prayer, scripture study, and acting in so much faith, you are called to the work.
