Prepared

We never know how, when, and where the Lord will need us. We can prepare ourselves so we will be ready when that time comes. The following scripture details the kinds of knowledge we should gain as part of that preparation.

 "... you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand; Of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms—" Doctrine and Covenants 88: 78-79

Here's the reason for such a deep and broad knowledge base - 

"That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again to magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you." Doctrine and Covenants 80

Joe with Sir Orville Turnquest, Governor General of The Bahamas

Through a very interesting set of "coincidences" at the beginning of our mission in The Bahamas, Joe was invited to take part in a weekly gathering of the Lunch Bunch, the leading clergy, politicians, and businessmen of The Bahamas. These were the George Washingtons, Thomas Jeffersons, and James Madisons of Bahamian independence from Great Britain in 1973. 

Joe's life experiences were well suited to mingle with these men. He could hold his own in conversations about politics and world issues. He was experienced in handling sensitive matters. He knew how to remain humble and quiet in the face of false accusations. He knew how to listen. He knew when to talk and when to remain silent. During the year he attended weekly Lunch Bunch meetings he changed perceptions about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, cleared up misunderstandings, and developed friendships. 

Joe was prepared. 

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These pictures were taken April 8, 1997 at the last Lunch Bunch meeting before we finished our mission. Governor General Turnquest did not attend many of the meetings. He came to this one to say good-bye and thank you to Elder Todd. 

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top picture - Sir Orville Turnquest, Governor General, with other members of the Lunch Bunch

note: March 29, 2014 edit - punctuation correction