Sandra Rogers, VP of International Students at BYU in Provo, Utah, counseled the BYU-Hawaii 'ohana on our individual responsibilities as members of the Church to participate in the rolling forth of the Kingdom of God to fill the earth.
After recounting the humble yet inspired beginnings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Rogers referenced prophecies that proclaim "the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear."
"The Church has made great progress since its humble beginnings," Rogers said, citing the proliferation of the Book of Mormon in 104 languages, 119 temples in operation and other significant achievements of recent years. "We live in a glorious time when prophecy is being fulfilled in every land.
"And with the blessing and opportunity of being members of the Church during this last and glorious of all dispensations, come important responsibilities for us," she reminded listeners. In addition to the far reaching work of Church leaders, "we as simple, regular members of the Church, also have the assignment to assist in this great work in the latter days."
Some suggested three ways members of the Church can participate in this great work: prepare for and accept mission calls, magnify Church callings, and live according to our covenants and commitments as an example for others.
She proceeded to share examples of saints who lived the principles of the gospel under some trying circumstances. One was of the Anti-Nephi-Lehis from the Book of Mormon. Despite a savage attack of the wicked Lamanites, they kept their covenant to the Lord that they would "stain our swords no more" with the blood of their brethren.
Another example was that of the Saints in post-war East Germany. The communist regime made it difficult for them to live certain aspects of their, but they persevered. In time, government leaders recognized them as "upright and honest citizens," granting them more religious freedom.