Thomas S. Monson is an amazing world leader. He has been the prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints since February 2008. He was prepared for his lifetime commitment to service in the church as he was taught by his parents to live the gospel and as he studied its teachings often. His efforts over the years strengthened his relationship with Jesus Christ. He proved to be capable beyond his years because he was called as a bishop at age 22, he was in the stake presidency at age 27, served as a mission president of the Canadian mission at age 31, was called as an apostle at the age of 36, and eventually became prophet at age 80. He was the youngest man called to the quorum of the 12 apostles in 53 years and was 17 years younger than the next youngest member, Gordon B. Hinckley. The tasks put before him at such early periods of life were surely intimidating, but he put his faith in God and was able to fulfill his duties.
His whole life has been dedicated to service and he has helped the members of the church grow immensely. Every April and October since he has been an apostle, he gives one or more speeches in General Conference and admonishes those who listen to strive to live a more virtuous life. As a prophet, he teaches from scripture and revelation from God and warns about the evils and temptations of the world. He tells members what to do in order to be happy and receive exaltation. During the most recent conference he gave an especially inspirational talk, but not in the way he had planned. Towards the end of his talk named “Be an Example and a Light”, his 88-year old body weakened and he was visibly struggling to stand upright. However, he was determined to finish and as he relied heavily on the podium for support, he completed the message he had prepared to give. This was powerful to me because he has truly given up his life to the service of God and all who saw him struggling that early October day witnessed how his old age and hard work over the years are taking a toll on him.
In 2008, the inspirational film “On The Lord’s Errand: The Life Of Thomas S. Monson” was produced which depicts key events and experiences of Monson’s busy life. He was a very likable man and everyone who knew him loved him for his kindness and uplifting personality. He helped people one by one and was sincere to all he came in contact with. His willingness to serve God and and follow the spirit is amazing.
Throughout his ministry in the church, many changes have been made to strengthen its members and help more people world wide. Among them, more opportunities to serve were made possible for young adults when the mission age was lowered, a more interactive church youth curriculum was implemented, 33 new temples have been announced, and major humanitarian efforts for natural disasters in Haiti, Japan, and Thailand have been made. The world has certainly been enriched under the leadership of Thomas S. Monson.
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