LDS youth: A standard for the nations
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"Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations" (Doctrine and Covenants 115:5).
2005 has been a monumental year for LDS youth. Thousands have participated in pageants and dance celebrations, all commemorating the 200th birthday of Joseph Smith and the 175th anniversary of the Church.
The testimonies of many young people have developed and been strengthened in the past year — a spiritual by-product of the historic anniversaries. Now general youth leaders are anxious that the enthusiasm of 2005 continues and can be shared with others. Next year's Mutual theme — "Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations" (Doctrine and Covenants 115:5) — stands as a call to young people throughout the Church to stand up, be noticed and bless the lives of others.
It was Elder Henry B. Eyring of the Quorum of the Twelve who recently warned in general conference of the "short shelf life" of spiritual matters. Things of the Spirit need constant replenishment and care.
Thanks, in part, to the events of the past year, LDS youth find themselves enjoying a high level of conversion and testimony, said Young Women General President Susan W. Tanner.
"This is a time when (the youth) are feeling something deep inside them. Something good. Something indescribable for most of them. . . . Now, in the year 2006, they can share that light," Sister Tanner said.
Young Men General President Charles W. Dahlquist said the celebrations of the past year will prove hollow unless those events can fuel the young people of the Church to do good and serve others.
"We want our youth to have that light — to be missionaries and reach out and strengthen those around them," Brother Dahlquist said.
Many issues continue to challenge LDS youth. They will need the gospel's light to help them stay safe from danger. Brother Dahlquist believes that young people, if empowered by the events of the past year, can meet such challenges.
"That light will be burning so bright that it will become second nature," he said.
Sister Tanner said there are many ways LDS youth can bring the 2006 Mutual theme to life.
"We hope there will be an emphasis on missionary work. An emphasis on being an example to your families, to your peers," she said. "Arise and shine forth, and let your light be a standard to your family, to your friends, to your community, to your school, to your nation."
Service can be a powerful form of "arising" and "shining forth."
Sister Tanner spoke of a young man who asked if LDS youth have to wait another 200 years to experience the spirit felt throughout the Church in 2005.
"Our resounding answer is no. Let's continue forth in this coming year."
