The Third Verse

I'm trying to be like Jesus;
I'm following in His ways.
I'm trying to love as He did, in all that I do and say.
At times I am tempted to make a wrong choice,
But I try to listen as the still small voice whispers,
"Love one another as Jesus loves you.
Try to show kindness in all that you do.
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought,
For these are the things Jesus taught."


I'm trying to love my neighbor;
I'm learning to serve my friends.
I watch for the day of gladness when Jesus will come again.
I try to remember the lessons He taught.
Then the Holy Spirit enters into my thoughts, saying:
"Love one another as Jesus loves you.
Try to show kindness in all that you do.
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought,
For these are the things Jesus taught."


I'm trying to serve my Savior.
I'm sharing His gospel true.
I'm seeking the friends and family that once before life I knew.
And when I return and I take off my tag,
May I ever cherish the Canadian flag, singing:
Love, serve, obey wherever you may be.
Try to always be a missionary.
Remember Vancouver, your work to convert
With President and Sister Burt.


The first two verses were written by Janice Kapp Perry, and remains one of the most cherished children's songs in the church. The third verse I wrote this week. I was asked to coordinate the musical number for the departing missionary meeting, so I wrote this for the departing missionaries.


I've decided to pattern my final days as a missionary off of the final days of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ was a missionary that was never homesick. He never allowed His work to be hindered by thoughts of the end. At the same time, He never tried to hide how much time He had left. He never tried to deny that His end was soon, nor did He ever feel awkward when talking about the little time He had left. He went about His Father's business until the very end. I find that to be a very fitting example to try to follow.


-Elder Reynolds