Messages of sacrifice, service shared with future missionaries at devotional

Hundreds of prospective missionaries gathered in the Wilkinson Student Center ballroom, Feb. 26, to hear from guest speakers Elder W. Mark Bassett and Sister Angela Bassett.

The couple addressed false ideas regarding missionary work, the importance of temple worship and the joys of sacrifice in serving others.

Students reacted positively to the messages shared and expressed their eagerness to serve God and grow their faith in Jesus Christ.

We are both so thrilled that you have served, or are going to serve (a mission), said Elder Bassett to those in attendance. This is an exciting time!"

Elder Bassett, General Authority Seventy and executive director of the Missionary Department for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, discussed six false claims and their opposing truths, which were shared by Elder Ronald A. Rasband, from the Quorum of the Twelve, in a missionary devotional.

These statements were:

Claim 1: The rising generation of the Church has less faith and interest in Jesus Christ than previous generations.

Claim 2: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is declining as interest in organized religion decreases.

Claim 3: Baptisms might be increasing in places like Africa, but not in North America or Europe.

Claim 4: Even if we are increasing in baptisms, these new converts are not being retained.

Claim 5: More missionaries come home early than ever before.

Claim 6:  Im not good enough I cant do this. Theres just no way I can measure up

Elder and Sister Bassett relayed recent reports proving why these claims are false.

They shared that there has been an increase in the following areas: participation rates among youth in Church activities, number of baptisms around the world, member retention and individuals choosing to serve both proselyting and service missions.

Wherever you go, you will find, you will teach, you will baptize, Elder Bassett said.

Elder and Sister Bassett also spoke of the blessings that come from offering sacrifices, both big and small, to God. They shared the story of Abraham and Isaac from the Bible and a video by former president of the Church, Thomas S. Monson.

The greatest decision I ever made was to give up something I dearly loved to the God I love even more, President Monson said, recounting a story about a boy selling his violin to serve a mission.

Elder and Sister Bassett shared that miracles can occur in the life of a missionary and within the lives of those surrounding them as they choose to focus on their service to others. They recounted the Old Testament story of the man who resided at the pool of Bethesda.

You are preparing to go serve. A mighty change is about to come forth in your hearts in your lives. You'll be a miracle. You'll be a living miracle in the lives of others, Elder Bassett said. You will see change in yourself and in many people. The miracle is coming and the miracle will be one of the greatest experiences you have had in your life thus far."

Students in attendance expressed that they were moved by the messages shared in the devotional.

I think the part that impacted me the most was just how focused it was on building a relationship with the Savior, Aunaleisa Ross, a BYU student with her mission call, said. (It) gives me a lot of hope that no matter where I come up short, it's about the Savior and bringing people to him.

The devotional was recorded and is available to watch online.