తల్లి ప్రేమ: మరణం నుండి కాపాడిన ఉత్తరం

Latter-day Saint Families , Latter-day Saint Missionaries , Russell M. Nelson

3 min read

In a general conference, President Russell M. Nelson shared a story that exemplifies the miracles that can occur through the influence of a mother.

Image: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

“Give thanks to the Lord for these sisters who, like our Heavenly Father, love us not only for who we are, but for who we can become.”

President Nelson recounted:

“The influence of their mother will bless them throughout their lives, especially when they serve as missionaries.

Many years ago, Elder Frank Croft was serving in the state of Alabama. While preaching to the people, he was forcibly kidnapped by a violent gang and subjected to flogging and whipping with his back exposed.

He was ordered to remove his coat and shirt before being tied to a tree. As he did so, a letter he had recently received from his mother fell out of his pocket.

“The abominable gang leader took the letter; Elder Croft closed his eyes and said a silent prayer. The assailant read the letter from Elder Croft’s mother. I quote a portion of a copy of the letter:

'My beloved child, … remember the words of the Savior when He said: 'Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for my sake. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.'

It also recalls the Savior on the cross suffering for the sins of the world when He uttered these immortal words: 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'"

"Truly, my son, those who mistreat you... do not know what they are doing, otherwise they would not do it."

Someday, somewhere, they will understand and repent of their actions and honor you for the glorious work you are doing.

Be patient, my son, love those who mistreat you and say all kinds of evil against you, and the Lord will bless you and magnify you… Remember, also, my son, that your mother prays night and day for you.'

Elder Croft looked at the man, who was filled with hatred, as he studied the letter. He would read a line or two… then sit and ponder. He stood to face his captive and said:

'You must have a wonderful mother. You know, I had one once too.'

"Then, turning to the gang, he said, 'Men, after reading this Mormon's mother's letter, I can't go through with what we were going to do. I think we'd better let him go.'"

Elder Croft was freed without a scratch.

We are immensely grateful for the faithful mothers and fathers of our wonderful missionaries. The love they have for their children is sublime.”

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