And I, Moroni, having heard these words, was comforted and said: O Lord, thy righteous will be done, for I know thou workest unto the children of men according to their faith. - Ether 12:29.
In 1982 my calling as a regional representative coincided to the day with my developing stomach problems which, by Feburary, 1983, despite a blessing and medical attention, had intensified. One of my sons, who was serving in the Germany Munich Mission at the time, wrote quoting Ether 12:27 which in effect states that with humility and faith, weak things will become strong.
On the following Sunday, I was feeling very ill but I attended Church meetings. During a moment of quiet I referred to Ether 12:27, but then read on to the lovely words in verse 29. I felt so inspired, and said to the Lord as I gave a personal commitment: "If it takes this illness to make me into the sort of person you want me to be, then I accept it." I knew the illness was to help me to develop patience, understanding and fulfill a commitment whatever the challenges.
In 1983, regional representatives conducted stake conferences. Despite continuing struggles which continued for two years, I was able to fulfill my calling. In 1985 my illness departed within a day, as if to confirm approval by a loving Heavenly Father. This was followed by a call to be the England London Mission president and it was a busy period of time. I would stuff down a sandwich within two minutes, prior to conducting 20 or more interviews with missionaries, following a strenuous but beautifully spiritual zone conference. There were miles of travel with long days and sometimes long nights! I had no further problems with my stomach. Indeed the Lord had made strong that which was weak but only after commitment, faith and trial.
