I Am a Disciple of Jesus Christ - a Powerful Introduction
Saturday President Quinn and I attended Micheal’s baptism in Ukiah. A wonderful spirit prevailed as Micheal made his first covenant to follow the Savior and take upon him His name. At the end of the service Bishop Bogner spoke and welcomed Micheal into the ward. The bishop started out by saying, “Good afternoon, I am Bishop Bogner and I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.” He went on to explain that after hearing the missionaries in his ward introduce themselves as disciples of Christ, he too, wanted to introduce himself that way. He said being thought of as a disciple of the Savior is wonderful!
I wanted to jump out of my seat and high five the bishop and our missionaries! I am so proud of them. Since we arrived a year ago, President Quinn and I have encouraged our missionaries when speaking in church and in mission meetings to be like Mormon and introduce themselves as disciples of the Savior.
In 3 Nephi 5:13 Mormon says, “Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of Him to declare His word among His people that they may have everlasting life.”
Mormon who could have introduced himself as a great commander of the Nephite army, a prophet to the people, or as a scribe and compiler of the brass plates. chooses instead to introduce himself as a disciple of Christ. I am happy to hear our missionaries are doing this! There is great power in the name of our Savior!
I love what it means to be a disciple. Being a disciple is to be under the care of a teacher, to be disciplined to follow a teacher, and to be personally tutored by a leader. In this case being a disciple of the Savior is to be loved, succored, led, and taught by Jesus Christ the Son of God.
We have 18 missionaries leaving this week having served honorable missions. It has been a joyful experience to watch them deepen their discipleship to Jesus Christ while serving in the California Santa Rosa Mission. We will receive 17 new missionaries to replace our departing missionaries. We look forward to watching their spiritual growth and their devotion to Jesus Christ.
I am grateful to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. As I choose to follow Him I have gained his power and goodness in my life. Being a lifelong disciple is what brings me joy and happiness. I am blessed to introduce myself as a disciple of my Savior, Jesus Christ! - Thanks for reading, Elaine Quinn