President Russell M. Nelson lived in my home ward for several years during his time as an Apostle. Due to his travel schedule, he attended our ward about once a month, sometimes more in the summer or around the holidays.
When President Nelson presided, I noticed that he was generous with sharing his testimony and encouraging ward members personally. For example, the first Sunday that my dad conducted as the second counselor in the bishopric with President Nelson in attendance, he remembers the Apostle looking him in the eye after he finished conducting, patting his knee, and saying, “I’m proud of you.”
After another sacrament meeting, he once went out of his way to thank my sister and me for playing a violin duet as a musical number. It was an intimidating performance, especially knowing that President Nelson has perfect pitch and loves music deeply. Still, he made sure to greet us by name and express heartfelt gratitude for our contributions to the meeting.
Among all these memories, however, one particular sacrament meeting stands out in my mind.
A Sacred Meeting
January 7, 2018, was no typical Sunday in my home ward.
I took my seat in the chapel pews with my family, listening to the organ playing the melodies of familiar hymns. After a few minutes, the low rumble of voices chatting in the congregation diminished to a reverent hush as we collectively stood and looked toward the door to the right of the stand.
President Nelson, then President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, walked into the chapel with Sister Wendy W. Nelson and a security officer.
President Thomas S. Monson had passed away only five days earlier, and the Church was in an apostolic interregnum—the period of time after the death of a prophet before the reorganization of the First Presidency.
I can’t point to a distinct visual change in how he walked or held himself. But I could sense, and almost see, a change in President Nelson.
Even though he hadn’t been set apart as the prophet yet, I felt a powerful assurance from the Spirit as I watched him take his seat on the stand. I knew, deep in my heart and soul, that the Lord truly leads and organizes His Church.
Toward the end of the meeting, President Nelson shared his testimony as the final speaker. I don’t remember the exact words he spoke that day, but I cannot forget how I felt as he testified of the Savior and His gospel. The Spirit witnessed powerfully to my core that the Lord calls living prophets and apostles today, just as He revealed the gospel anciently to prophets like Adam, Noah, Abraham, and Moses.
An Example of the Savior’s Love
Interacting with President Nelson—even briefly—has given me a glimpse of the Savior’s deep and abiding love. The prophet’s example has inspired me to strive to be more loving with people at church, thank others by name for their contributions, and help those outside my circle feel comfortable and genuinely appreciated.
While his prophetic influence is almost beyond words, I think President Nelson’s Christlike leadership is best summarized by the last four lines of a verse he wrote, which he shared once when receiving an award:
“The Lord is my Light.
His endless truth, my law.
My joy is in service to others.
My message is, my life.”
The way that President Nelson lives his life is truly his message—and you can’t help but want to know Christ better after seeing, hearing, or speaking with him.
As we celebrate the prophet’s 101st birthday this week, may we follow his lead in helping others recognize the Savior’s light and love through our service. Like President Nelson, we can be forces for good and messengers for Christ, the true source of joy and meaning.
More articles for you:
▶ 10 ways Pres. Nelson has invited you to prepare for the Second Coming
▶ 101 facts about President Nelson for his 101st birthday
▶ What Pres. Nelson shared with the world on his 101st birthday
