At a missionary conference in Billings, MT, we were visited by Elder Craig Zwick of the Seventy. Having already hosted one other missionary conference for the other half of the mission in Helena on Tuesday, Elder Zwick finished his tour of the mission by addressing us on a very somber note.
We were told that two missionaries, an Elder Strong from Utah and an Elder Walker from Idaho, had been killed in a head on collision while riding their bikes in Donna, Texas the night before. He also added that one of the Elders had already completed his twenty-four months of service yet had chosen to extend his time.
I thought of those two missionaries who would not be seeing their families again while in this life. My heart yearned for their families loss because I know how much my family is looking forward to that day when we will see each other again. My hope is that I will have such an opportunity. Yet I realize that I am not exempt from the pains of mortality - none of us are, even those serving as missionaries for God. And so, my thoughts continued.
Elder Strong and Walker will not be greeting their family at an airport where friends and family will have gathered to welcome them home. No, nor will those Elders be able continue on their education, find a wife, marry in God's temple, have children, develop a career, and enjoy the blessings of living life.
As we think of all that they will not be able to do, Elder Quentin L. Cook's words come to mind:
"Whenever tragedy occurs, we mourn and strive to bear one another’s burdens. We lament the things that will not be accomplished and the songs that will not be sung ... A unique challenge for those who have lost loved ones is to avoid dwelling on the lost opportunities in this life. Often those who die early have demonstrated significant capabilities, interests, and talents."
It appears that the lives of Elder Strong and Walker have been cut short. There are songs they can no longer sing, and potential they cannot fulfill in this mortal life.
"But when we look through the wide and clear lens of the gospel instead of the limited lens of mere mortal existence, we know of the great eternal reward promised by a loving Father in His plan. As the Apostle Paul taught, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” A line from a beloved hymn provides comfort, solace, and the clear lens: 'And Jesus listening can hear the songs I cannot sing.'"
We have the promise from God that those who faithfully keep the covenants that they have made with Him will be able to "receive all promised blessings in the eternities", whether its done in this life or the next. (Elder Anderson)
As for Elder Strong and Elder Walker, I know where they have gone and I am content with a verse I found from the Doctrine & Covenants, which in its context spoke of elders adminstering blessings to the sick. However, this is what my eyes caught hold of when I read:
"And the elders of the church, two or more, shall be called ... and if they die they shall die unto me". (D&C 42:44)
God be with you brothers till we meet again!
Elder Strong and Walker will not be greeting their family at an airport where friends and family will have gathered to welcome them home. No, nor will those Elders be able continue on their education, find a wife, marry in God's temple, have children, develop a career, and enjoy the blessings of living life.
As we think of all that they will not be able to do, Elder Quentin L. Cook's words come to mind:
"Whenever tragedy occurs, we mourn and strive to bear one another’s burdens. We lament the things that will not be accomplished and the songs that will not be sung ... A unique challenge for those who have lost loved ones is to avoid dwelling on the lost opportunities in this life. Often those who die early have demonstrated significant capabilities, interests, and talents."
It appears that the lives of Elder Strong and Walker have been cut short. There are songs they can no longer sing, and potential they cannot fulfill in this mortal life.
"But when we look through the wide and clear lens of the gospel instead of the limited lens of mere mortal existence, we know of the great eternal reward promised by a loving Father in His plan. As the Apostle Paul taught, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” A line from a beloved hymn provides comfort, solace, and the clear lens: 'And Jesus listening can hear the songs I cannot sing.'"
We have the promise from God that those who faithfully keep the covenants that they have made with Him will be able to "receive all promised blessings in the eternities", whether its done in this life or the next. (Elder Anderson)
As for Elder Strong and Elder Walker, I know where they have gone and I am content with a verse I found from the Doctrine & Covenants, which in its context spoke of elders adminstering blessings to the sick. However, this is what my eyes caught hold of when I read:
"And the elders of the church, two or more, shall be called ... and if they die they shall die unto me". (D&C 42:44)
God be with you brothers till we meet again!
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