I have been blessed in my life to have had some wonderful examples, leaders, and friends. As I have thought today about someone who exemplifies Christlike service, my mission president, now an Apostle, Neil L. Andersen, has been on my mind.
He was called at a young age to be a mission president. He still had small children. The whole family became our family in Bordeaux, France. He dedicated those 3 years, laboring along our sides as missionaries, probably thinking that he would go back to his regular life afterwards. He was soon after called as a General Authority, and was again assigned to Europe and Brazil. Later in 2009 he was called as an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ.
As a Servant of Jesus Christ, he has dedicated his life to the Lord. Elder Andersen now spends his days ministering to those around the globe. He testifies of the birth, life, and mission of Jesus Christ so powerfully that the Spirit witnesses the truthfulness of his words.
My faith in Jesus Christ has been strengthened time and again as I have listened and learned from Elder Andersen. When we have had mission reunions, despite it being a busy weekend with General Conference and other meetings, he always takes the time to meet each member of every former missionary’s family and shake their hand. I know that he is called of God to be a special witness of the Savior.
While others end their careers in their 60’s and 70’s and retire, modern-day apostles work steadfastly to prepare the world for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. I’ve watched as Elder Andersen leads such a very busy schedule. Rather than slowing down, playing more golf, spending unlimited time with grandchildren, etc., he continues to serve the Lord tirelessly. There is no retirement from being an Apostle.
As I feel that my life is so busy at times, I look to him and the other Apostles and First Presidency and see their example of being anxiously engaged in a good cause every day. This helps me to know that I can do more. Elder Andersen and his wife Sister Andersen are so kind and thoughtful. They truly represent Jesus Christ and our Savior’s love for us all.
#LightTheWorld
Rocky Mountain Sunshine 