It Is Not Enough...

   We all know the scripture that says "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity" (1 Tim 4:12). It is about being an example to the world. When asked why we don't have crosses in our church buildings, President Hinckley replied that the symbols of our Christian faith are “the lives of our people.” (Dallin H. Oaks, Sacrifice, Ensign May 2012). That is the way it should be. To our neighbors, our friends, coworkers, and acquaintances we are the Church. Their perception of the "mormon church" rests on what we do and say. Whether we like it or not, that is how it is.

   However, if we just simply walk around "being an example" will people flood to the church to be baptized? Probably not. If that happened, we really wouldn't need full-time missionaries, would we? But, the responsibility to preach the gospel does not rest solely on the shoulders of us full-time missionaries. God tells all of us that we need to "open our mouths." The Lord told Joseph Smith:

 " But with some I am not well pleased, for they will not open their mouths, but they hide the talent which I have given unto them, because of the fear of man. Wo unto such, for mine anger is kindled against them.

    And it shall come to pass, if they are not more faithful unto me, it shall be taken away, even that which they have." (D&C 60:2-3)

   Do we fear man more than God? When we don't tell someone about the gospel when the opportunity arises, what are we afraid of? People we know and care about that don't have the gospel are all around us Even people we may not even know. The Lord has promised us that there are people everywhere being prepared to receive the gospel. There is only so much 2 young missionaries can do. For example, Elder Vilorio and I cover an area roughly 30 miles wide. There are approximately 8500 people living within the city limits of Orange Park alone. We can't talk to 8500 people. That would take years. We need everyone's help. Opening your mouth is the 2nd step of sharing the gospel, and perhaps the most important. Being an example is just not enough...