Light of the gospel
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A young man bears his testimony in the Nagano, Japan Branch and mentions the light of the famous Olympic torch.
People from all over the world, of course, came to Nagano in February for the 18th Olympic Winter Games. The Games were intended to foster good will and peace among nations. That thousands of worldwide visitors rubbed shoulders and shared ideas - and that they were treated so kindly by their Japanese hosts - is a testament to at least some success of the Olympic effort.The Olympic torch is a symbol of that effort.
In his testimony, the young man in the Nagano Branch suggests that, while the flame is a significant worldwide symbol, another light shines far brighter to the world.
"I am the light and the life of the world. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end." (3 Ne. 9:18.)
"And behold, I am the light and the life of the world; and I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me, and have glorified the Father in taking upon me the sins of the world, in the which I have suffered the will of the Father in all things from the beginning." (3 Ne. 11:11.)
A few days later and halfway around the world, President Gordon B. Hinckley announces plans to build a temple in the city of Accra in the west African nation of Ghana.
Church members there - and throughout the world - are thrilled.
In making the announcement, President Hinckley admonished Church members to fellowship new converts.
"Put your arms around them, make them feel at home. Teach them the doctrines of the kingdom. Befriend them and help them in every way possible. I make you a promise that if you will do that you will be blessed with a temple in your midst. . . .
"You've gone a long time without a temple. . . . When it's completed you won't have to travel all the way to London, or all the way to Johannesburg, to have the blessings of the Lord." He encouraged members, in the meantime, to ready themselves by obtaining temple recommends. (Church News, Feb. 21, 1998, p. 3.)
The light of the gospel continues to spread.
Jesus, before completing His ministry on earth, commissioned His apostles to take the gospel into all the earth:
"Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat. . . .
"And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." (Mark 16:14-15.)
In this dispensation, the Lord has further commanded that we make the gospel message available to all.
"And this gospel shall be preached unto every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.
"And the servants of God shall go forth, saying with a loud voice: Fear God and give glory to him, . . . " (D&C 133:37-38.)
Even when given in this dispensation, the admonition must have seemed overwhelming to early members of the Church. How, when it took several months just to get from Nauvoo to Salt Lake City, could they possibly take the gospel to Africa, Asia or even Alaska?
One need only travel to realize that this world is a huge place. Yet one need only tinker with technology to realize that the world is getting smaller each day.
News of Nagano's Olympics or west Africa's temple is available - to all the world - instantaneously at the mere touch of a few key strokes.
It is inspiring to watch - and thrilling to participate - as the gospel is literally spread to the four corners of the earth.
In one sense, the technological advancements of humankind are helping. And, properly used, that can be a great blessing.
But despite all the advancements, the work of spreading the gospel remains largely a person-to-person undertaking. Certainly, we can beam the message off strategically positioned satellites to virtually anywhere in the world. But more certain is the testimony of a loving neighbor who lives what he teaches.
Live the gospel. Be a good example. Show love. Be Christlike. Lift your voice. Have charity. And don't be afraid to share that which has brought such great joy to you. Then will the Spirit respond to our invitation and touch the hearts of God's children.
Man's advancements are great. But they hold no candle to the influence of the Spirit.
