In the book of Joshua, a powerful declaration resonates through the ages: “And Joshua said unto all the people [of Israel], … choose you this day whom ye will serve; … but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Josh. 24:15). This verse is not just a historical statement; it’s a timeless principle that holds profound meaning for individuals and families striving to live a life dedicated to God. Just as it was a pivotal moment for the Israelites, this declaration serves as a guiding light for us today, particularly in how we raise and guide our children in their spiritual journey.
The challenge Joshua presented to the Israelites is strikingly relevant to modern parents. We are constantly faced with choices about what values and priorities we instill in our homes. One significant decision, particularly within faith-based communities, is whether to prepare our young sons to dedicate a period of their lives to full-time missionary service. This commitment echoes Joshua’s resolve, signifying a family’s collective dedication to serving the Lord.
The importance of this principle has been consistently emphasized by religious leaders. President Howard W. Hunter powerfully stated, “Earlier prophets have taught that every able, worthy young man should serve a full-time mission. I emphasize this need today” (”Follow the Son of God,” Ensign, Nov. 1994, 88). President Gordon B. Hinckley further reinforced this, saying, “I say what has been said before, that missionary work is essentially a priesthood responsibility. As such, our young men must carry the major burden. This is their responsibility and their obligation” (”Some Thoughts on Temples, Retention of Converts, and Missionary Service,” Ensign, Nov. 1997, 52). These pronouncements highlight the significant role missionary service plays in the lives of young men and the broader community of faith.
As parents, we are entrusted with the sacred stewardship of our children. Part of this stewardship involves nurturing their spiritual growth and preparing them to serve the Lord. We are accountable for guiding them towards righteousness, and one of the most impactful blessings we can provide is preparing our sons to willingly and worthily serve missions. This preparation is not just about religious duty; it’s about fostering a lifelong commitment to faith and service, embodying the spirit of “for me and my house will serve the lord.”
The Book of Mormon provides a powerful example of parental influence in shaping young men’s commitment to righteous service. The story of the 2,060 stripling warriors, led by Helaman, demonstrates the profound impact of mothers’ teachings. These young men fought valiantly, and miraculously, “there was not one soul of them who did perish; yea, and neither was there one soul among them who had not received many wounds” (Alma 57:25). Their remarkable preservation was attributed to their unwavering obedience and faith, rooted in the teachings of their mothers. Helaman recounted, “I did remember the words which they said unto me that their mothers had taught them” (Alma 57:21). These mothers had instilled in their sons the unwavering belief “that there was a just God, and whosoever did not doubt, that they should be preserved by his marvelous power” (Alma 57:26).
This account underscores the immense power parents, particularly mothers, wield in the spiritual development of their sons. When parents teach their children about a just God and inspire them to answer the call to serve, they cultivate the faith necessary for their sons to embrace missionary service and live lives dedicated to the Lord. This echoes the sentiment of Joshua’s declaration, “for me and my house will serve the lord,” starting with the foundational teachings within the home.
Church leaders, like bishops, also play a vital role in preparing young men for missions. They are encouraged to start early, helping young men understand the principles of faith and service. Introducing concepts like Alma’s experiment – planting the seed of faith – can be instrumental. By nurturing this seed, bishops and leaders can help young men develop a personal desire to serve a mission, transforming the idea into a deeply held personal aspiration.
The journey of preparing young men for missionary service is a collaborative effort. Parents, church leaders, and mentors all contribute to fostering a culture of service and faith. Sister Richards, bishops, and priesthood leaders, as mentioned in the original text, serve as examples of those who effectively guided and prepared young men for missions. Their dedication highlights the collective responsibility within a faith community to nurture future generations of servants of the Lord.
To significantly increase the number of young men serving missions, a fundamental shift in understanding is required. Parents must fully grasp their responsibility in preparing their sons. This begins with seeking divine guidance from Heavenly Father, asking for insight into how to best nurture their sons’ spiritual growth and inspire them to serve. This call to action is not limited by geography or nationality; it extends to every able and worthy young man within the global community of faith. Bishops and church leaders are likewise called to actively engage in this preparatory process.
President Boyd K. Packer wisely stated, “True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior” (”Little Children,” Ensign, Nov. 1986, 17). The core doctrine that can transform young men’s perspectives on missionary service is understanding the immeasurable worth of a single soul. The Atonement of Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice, underscores the infinite value of each individual and the profound importance of sharing the Gospel. When parents, leaders, and young men deeply comprehend this doctrine, the desire to serve and share this precious gift naturally blossoms, reflecting the commitment, “for me and my house will serve the lord,” in action.
Elder Joe J. Christensen emphasized the urgency and importance of this call to serve, stating, “The Lord did not say, ‘Go on a mission if it fits your schedule, or if you happen to feel like it, or if it doesn’t interfere with your scholarship, your romance, or your educational plans.’ Preaching the gospel is a commandment and not merely a suggestion. It is a blessing and a privilege. … Remember, … the Lord and his prophets are counting on you” (”The Savior Is Counting on You,” Ensign, Nov. 1996, 41). Missionary service is not merely an option; it is a vital opportunity for young men to make a profound and eternal impact.
Indeed, there is perhaps no greater undertaking for a young man than serving a full-time mission. The positive influence they exert as representatives of Jesus Christ extends far beyond their mission years, rippling through eternity. Today’s missionary force is unprecedented in size and dedication, a testament to the growing commitment to spreading the Gospel. Young men who choose to serve are not ordinary; they are, as described in the original text, “choice spirits that have been held in reserve to come forth in this day.” Their potential is immense, and their contribution to the world is invaluable.
As we contemplate the divine mandate to share the Gospel globally, let us, both individually and as families, earnestly pray that every young man within our faith communities will cultivate the desire and live worthily to serve a full-time mission. May we strive to create homes and communities where the declaration “for me and my house will serve the lord” is not just a statement, but a lived reality.
May divine blessings guide us in preparing our young men for service. May they emulate the sons of Helaman, diligently following the Lord’s guidance with precision and faith. May they become beacons of light, proclaiming to the world, like Joshua of old, their unwavering resolve to serve the Lord. This is my prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
