An Elect Lady

Last month, we had a special sisters meeting for all of the sister missionaries in my area. We were put into groups of four, given a woman from the scriptures along with a Christ-like attribute, and asked to give a discussion on how that woman showed that attribute.

My group was assigned Emma Smith and charity.

Emma Hale Smith: The first president of the oldest women's organization in the United States. The faithful, loving wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith. 

Charity: n. the pure love of Christ. It is the highest, noblest, and strongest kind of love and the most joyous to the soul.

Getting to study her life more in depth was such an amazing experience. She has been an amazing example to me in my life. I have always felt a curious attachment to her, so I was ecstatic to hear the assignment.

Just before her husband, Joseph Smith, was martyred at Carthage Jail, he responded to her request for a blessing. He told her if she wrote one, he would sign it when he returned home. This is some of what she wrote:

"I desire the Spirit of God to know and understand myself, that I might be able to overcome whatever of tradition or nature that would not tend to my exaltation in the eternal worlds. I desire a fruitful, active mind, that I may be able to comprehend the designs of God, when revealed through His servants without doubting. ...I desire... that I may wear a cheerful countenance... and be a blessing to all..."

Her words show such love and devotion to her Heavenly Father. In all she did, she showed charity for others, often caring for their welfare above her own. I believe that the words she wrote in that blessing from the Lord expresses the desires of my heart as well. I believe that is why I love Emma.

May we all love a little deeper, act a little kinder, and serve a little more.