Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Labourers In His Vineyard -


I know at times that I feel tired and wonder if all that I labor to do is of any worth. Sometimes, I get so busy with everyday concerns that I neglect the better things. I wonder sometimes if I am going in the right direction. Am I giving my all to my husband, family and the gospel of Jesus Christ? Am I serving my fellowmen the way the Savior would have me do? Am I enduring to the end?
 Luke 10: 2; Jesus taught the following:  Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.  

Doctrine and Covenants 33: 3; For behold, the field is white already to harvest; and it is the eleventh hour, and the last time that I shall call laborers into my vineyard.

This is our day, are we worthy of his hire? Are we prepared to serve him with all of our heart, might, mind and strength? This is the last time he will send labourers into his vineyard.
During a recent Temple preparation meeting one of the sisters told a parable that I would like to share. 

The Parable of the Stake President
A Stake President had been released after 10 years of service. He had faithfully served through the years in several leadership positions such as Scout Master, Young Men's President, High Priest Group Leader and a Bishop. His life had been one of service.
After his release he said to his wife; "I think I would like to take a fishing trip." This was something he had always loved to do; but hadn't been able to do very often. He soon went out and bought himself a new boat and trailer.
General Conference was scheduled for the next week end; so he rationalized that this would be the best time to go. He told his wife that he would listen to the conference sessions on the radio while fishing. He also stated that he would relax on the Sabbath day and enjoy listening to the sessions and enjoy his surroundings. He asked his wife if she would like to go with him; which she declined.
He got up early on Friday and headed out to his favorite fishing spot. When he arrived he set up his camp, took his boat down to the lake and started fishing. He really enjoyed the evening and the next morning he again left his camp to go down and fish. He was having so much fun that he continued to fish all day both Saturday and Sunday. He was so busy relaxing as he fished that he didn't take the time to listen to the conference sessions on his radio. He thought to himself he could always read the conference messages later. 
As he prepared to go home on Monday he was feeling so good and had really enjoyed this break away from his usual everyday life.
The drive back towards his home was pleasant and he enjoyed the scenery.
As he came over the hill towards his home; he looked down and all he could see was a gigantic hole in the ground and the only home standing was his own. He raced forward to his home and there taped to  the door was a note that said: Sorry, we couldn't wait any longer; we had to leave; signed Enoch.
We all chuckled of course, but there is a message there. We must endure to the end and never give up doing good works. I have pondered on this message and know that I want to be a good labourer in the kingdom of God.
Just a side note; my husband and I have received a call to be part -time Intercity Missionaries. We are excited to have this opportunity and look forward serving in this area. I will keep you updated on our experiences while serving in this calling.

Here is a link for an article that I submitted to the Mormon Women site; entitled A Mormon Grandmother's Thoughts -
http://mormonwoman.org/2011/05/10/motherhood-matters-day-9-learning-from-other-mothers/


10 comments:

The Adventurer said...

HI LeAnn
How fun you are going to do missionary work. I have not been able to do that yet in my life but I hope to one day. I read your article on the Mormon site:) I have several cousins who have join the Mormon faith:)

Susan Anderson said...

Great post! I'll go over and read your article at MW.

=)

Ardith Haws said...

Thanks for the great reminder. I enjoy reading your blog.

Stephanie Cozzens said...

I am really enjoying raising children, but my husband and I are sure looking forward to the missionary phase of our lives.

Your mission sounds very interesting - can't wait to read about your experiences!

Marie Rayner said...

Lovely post as always Leann! I always enjoy your thoughts and stories. Congratulations on your new calling. I just know you will be a wonderful missionary!!! Off to read your article now! xxoo

singing/granny said...

Thanks LeAnn! You do so much to lift and inspire others! I am excited for you to have a missionary calling. Blessings and good warm feelings to you and yours! Melody

Grammy Staffy said...

What a nice post LeAnn. I often wonder the same things you do. Now that I must be down for months....and can't work in the temple or even go to church right now...I wonder what Heavenly Father wants me to learn? I hope I can be in tune with His spirit enough to figure out what I am suppose to do while I am healing. I feel quite useless but surely there are ways I can serve in spite of my condition.

Congrats on your missionary calling. I wish you well.
Thanks again for your inspiring post. Have a great week. Hugs, Lura

noreen said...

Hi LeeAnn, I found your link from NOBH and came over to say hello. I enjoyed your post today of the Parable of the Stake President. Your call to be an intercity missionary will bring much hope and love to those you encounter. God Bless you in this new phase of your life.

asliceofsmithlife said...

Thank you for sharing the parable and this post on NOBH! Congrats on your intercity missionary work! You will be a blessing to many!

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