MR says: Just the encouragement every missionary needs to hear--whether a member missionary or one in the field.
For more on how to prepare for the mission field, click here.
If you’re preparing to go on a mission, it’s quite normal to have some feelings of fear, inadequacy, or nervousness about the task that is ahead. Sometimes these feelings simply mean that you have a realistic understanding that it will sometimes be very hard work that stretches you to your limits.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf reassures future missionaries with these words: “Consider the example of the Apostle Peter, who overcame his fears and became a courageous missionary and leader of the Church… We can learn not only from Peter, we can learn from all missionaries who have the same kind of commitment and dedication—missionaries like the many you find in all missions around the globe—missionaries like those who will serve with you. Each day, let us remind ourselves that we are disciples of the Savior Jesus Christ. And because He is with us, we do not fear.”
Family Concerns
Missionaries, especially seniors with grown children and grandchildren, may worry about how their absence will effect their families. Elder Robert D. Hales offered this counsel on the subject: “The Lord will send special blessings to your family as you serve. ‘I, the Lord, give unto them a promise that I will provide for their families’ (D&C 118:3). Couples are sometimes concerned that in their absence they will miss weddings, births, family reunions, and other family events. We have learned that the impact on families while grandparents are on missions is worth a thousand sermons. Families are greatly strengthened as they pray for their parents and grandparents and read letters sent home which share their testimonies and the contribution they are making in the mission field.”