Missionary Moment: Planted in the Gospel
Contributed By S. Ann Nebeker, Church News contributor
When we are “planted” in the gospel, it brings us the strength to remain true as followers of Christ.
“Fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail.” —D&C 6:34
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In a sacrament meeting recently, I was touched by the Spirit as we sang a line from Bruce R. McConkie’s hymn “I Believe in Christ” (Hymns, no. 134): “My feet he plants on gospel sod.” This phrase describes a principle that has been important in my life as a follower of Christ.
An inspired flat tire
Years ago, before we joined the Church, my husband and I lived in an upstairs apartment in an old house in Glendale, California.
I was a young 22-year-old bride expecting our first child, but already I knew enough about life to know that a Christ-centered home would be best.
One evening as we ate our dinner, I suggested to my husband that we could try going to different churches each Sunday until we found one that we liked.
He agreed, but as it turned out, we wouldn’t have to wait that long for an answer.
When we had finished eating dinner and were taking our dishes into our little kitchen, the doorbell rang.
It was stake missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and they had a flat tire out front.
They needed to use a phone, and they had come to the only place with a light on. And so, our journey began.
Blessing beyond measure
Fifty-four years later, my husband and I have been sealed together in the holy temple; we have seven children, 33 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren.
We have been blessed beyond measure, but our life has not always been smooth and perfect.
As with all of God’s children, we have had our challenges, tears, and disappointments, but we have had the blessing of having our feet planted on gospel sod.
This “planting” gave us strength and gave us many things to rely upon during these hard times: knowledge from the scriptures and prophets; support and teachings from innumerable teachers and leaders; love and helping hands from wonderful brothers and sisters, no matter where we lived; and a faith in Jesus Christ that gives us peace and helps us continue as we strive to endure to the end.
As the Savior Himself once instructed the Saints, “Fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail” (D&C 6:34).
