The One To Follow

Standing in a synagogue in Capernaum, Jesus is teaching about being the true bread from heaven. His comments evidently add to what he said to the people who returned from the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee, just previous to this scene, those being who ate from the loaves and fish provided there.  He states, "He that believeth on me hath everlasting life. I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." (John 6:47-51) Confused, some of the listeners quip to themselves, "This is an hard saying; who can hear it?" In response to these feelings, the Savior Jesus Christ then says, "Doth this offend you? For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him." With one final teaching before the multitude, Christ taught, "Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me except he doeth the will of my Father who hath sent me." The writings of John record what followed this teaching, "From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him." Christ, then turning to His own Apostles and fellow disciples asks, "Will ye also go away?" In response, the Chief Apostle of them all, Peter, responds, "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life."

What a remarkable story and teaching for us all!  As I reflect over my mission, as its coming to a close, I am reminded of the tender mercies and miracles which the Lord so mercifully allowed me to witness. I know and testify that the Priesthood Authority has been restored to the Earth, and when that Authority is accessed with an equal power and worthiness on the part of the Priesthood Holder, the very course of a life, a sickness, or even the very weather of the day, can change in an instant. I testify that the Book of Mormon is true and the most correct of any book on the Earth. It teaches us our origin, our path, and our ultimate destination home. I know it clearly states the Doctrine of Christ as the only way to be Saved. I know that President Nelson is a Prophet of God, and know that Joseph Smith was the Prophet of the last dispensation. I do know, that the Savior Jesus Christ, died for me, and all people, and that through Him I can someday return to my Father. 

In reflecting on my experiences, my testimony, and increased conversion, I feel the words of Jacob summarize it best: "O how great the plan of our God! O how great the holiness of our God!" (2 Nephi 9:13, 20) Although my daily life might be changing when I return home, the One I follow will not. In the words of Peter to Christ, "Lord, to whom shall we go?" 

Thank you for all your love and support throughout the duration of my mission.

Elder Robb