I invite each of you, young or old, to dedicate a small notebook to this theme. Write at the top of the first page the words “What my membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints means to me.” Then briefly list those things that come to mind. Over time, additional thoughts will come, which you can add to your list. ~ Richard G. Hinckley
I heard these words for the first time when I was serving as an LDS missionary in the Far East of Russia. I began keeping such a notebook at that time, and have added to it from time to time ever since. To date, I have 48 items listed in my notebook. I’d like to share a few of them.
It means the joy that comes from repentance.
This is one of the most meaningful aspects of my membership in the church. Because important and precious truths about Christ and his Atonement were restored, I know how to repent. I know how to gain greater access to the Savior’s peace and help along the road to forgiveness. I know that repentance is necessary and wonderful… it really is a miracle that by relying on the Savior to change our behavior we can become clean from our sins. This knowledge provides me with great hope, even when I make mistakes. The opportunity to repent brings joy!
It means helping others be the best they can be.
This one ties in with my previous post. By serving others, I can assist Heavenly Father in his work. One of the hardest things for me to do sometimes is to find joy in the success of others. Really, the success of others should be the source of my greatest happiness. My membership in the Mormon Church has multiplied my capacity to get over myself and reach outward.
What does your membership in the church mean to you?