Section 32

A mission call came to four faithful elders to go to the “Lamanites.”  This term means Children of Lehi: his posterity.  Most native North, Central, and South American people fit into this category if they have a portion of Lehi’s blood.  There are, undoubtedly, people who are more directly related to Lehi than others.  Nevertheless, at the time of Joseph Smith, the call came from the Lord to go into Indian Country and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. My own mission call was to the “Lamanites” in Arizona and New Mexico.  I was invited to learn the Navajo language, thus opening one of the most spectacularly poignant experiences of my life!  I lived and preached among these choice people for two years.  I loved the language and the people loved to hear me try to speak it.  It almost always got a chuckle when I made my attempts, but the people were patient and helpful.  The children were especially good at teaching me new words and phrases.  I dearly love the Navajo and hope someday to have another opportunity to live among them.

Section 31

This section is a mission call for Thomas Marsh.  There are several wonderful words and phrases the Lord uses that we can apply to ourselves:

“Blessed are you”

“I will bless you and your family”

“Lift up your heart and rejoice”

“Your sins are forgiven you”

“Be patient in afflictions”

“Revile not against those who revile”

“Govern your house in meekness”

“Be steadfast”

“It shall be given you by the Comforter, what you shall do and whither you shall go”

“Be faithful unto the end”

“I am with you”

God is a loving God.  His Son, Jesus Christ is our friend and helper.  They are all knowing and all powerful. Let’s join with them and partake of their blessings.