Friends and Family,
Sorry it's been a while once I've sent one of these, the past few weeks have been crazy! The past 2 weeks we've been traveling on p-day, so I didn't have much time to email. Buuuut now I'm back on my island so that's all good! Last week we had the baptism of Alejandro! He's 10 years old, and he's such a cool kid that loves the gospel. Yesterday for his confirmation, he ran to church alone so he wasn't late.
Lately, I've been studying the "War chapters" of the Book of Mormon. Many find it difficult to apply these passages of scripture tho their lives, seeing as they speak mostly of the wars between two tribes. This week, I studied a little bit from President Hunter, a past modern day prophet. He speaks to those who feel that they go unrecognized or underappreciated:
"It was said of the young and valiant Captain Moroni: “If all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, behold, the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yea, the devil would never have power over the hearts of the children of men.” (Alma 48:17.)
What a compliment to a famous and powerful man! I can’t imagine a finer tribute from one man to another. Two verses later is a statement about Helaman and his brethren, who played a less conspicuous role than Moroni: “Now behold, Helaman and his brethren were no less serviceable unto the people than was Moroni.” (Alma 48:19.)
In other words, even though Helaman was not as noticeable or conspicuous as Moroni, he was as serviceable; that is, he was as helpful or useful as Moroni.
Obviously, we could profit greatly by studying the life of Captain Moroni. He is an example of faith, service, dedication, commitment, and many other godly attributes. Rather than focusing on this magnificent man, however, I have chosen to look instead at those who are not seen in the limelight, who do not receive the attention of the world, yet who are “no less serviceable,” as the scripture phrased it.
Not all of us are going to be like Moroni, catching the acclaim of our colleagues all day every day. Most of us will be quiet, relatively unknown folks who come and go and do our work without fanfare. To those of you who may find that thought lonely or frightening or just unspectacular, I say, you are “no less serviceable” than the most spectacular of your associates."
How blessed we are to know that "God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;" (1 Corinthians 1:27). Although many of you serve in often quiet ways, your service is no less valuable than any other. I hope we can remember this lesson at this time of year, as many will remember their Savior and serve in quiet ways as He did.
Love you all!
Elder Coleman
Pic1 - Alejandro
Pic2 - Matching ties
Pic3 - Tenerife
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