A prophet for all time
The accomplishments of the 15th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are remarkable and could fill volumes. His influence for good spanned borders, race and religious creeds — but he never lost touch with his pioneer roots or his family. Those influences — combined with an unshakable faith in the Lord Jesus Christ — were ever his lodestar.
Someone once asked him in paying tribute: "How can the world ever measure the good, the blessings, the benefits bestowed on the people of the world by you?" The answer is simple: It cannot. Yet President Hinckley would never have claimed such. He would be the first to deflect credit for his accomplishments to a higher source of spiritual power he came to understand and draw upon early in life.
He also was exposed to his father's library, with more than 1,000 volumes, including many traditional literary classics. It was a natural thing for President Hinckley to later major in English at the University of Utah. This helped form a foundation for his excellence as a writer and orator and his effectiveness with mass media.
As a young missionary departing to England, he received a note from his father imploring him to "be not afraid, only believe." The New Testament reference became a favorite admonition during a challenging mission and throughout President Hinckley's subsequent lifetime of service.
His vision may only have been matched by his vigor, which sparked an untiring work ethic that included a rigorous travel schedule. Upon fulfilling his mission to England and returning home, he told his father he was through touring and would be content to remain close to Salt Lake City forever. Divine providence dictated otherwise, to the benefit of millions who partook in person of his love, graciousness, engaging sense of humor and prophetic testimony.
President Hinckley's ability to retain self-effacing perspective and demeanor in spite of widespread personal acclaim endeared him to the masses and put people of all stations and stature at ease in his presence. When questioned about what went through his mind when the beloved LDS hymn "We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet" was sung in his presence, he responded that his thoughts turned toward the prophet Joseph Smith and centered on gratitude for his sacrifices in establishing The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Recent comments
Thank you Brian for publishing that comment. I am currently transcribing...
Natalie Shaw | March 24, 2008 at 12:20 p.m.
In response to Elder Van Alexei Ballesteros. From the article published...
Brian Armstrong | Feb. 14, 2008 at 9:28 a.m.
A Wonderful Prophet and Servant of our Heavenly Father. President...
Donna Gaskins | Jan. 31, 2008 at 12:10 a.m.
