so what's the reason...

I feel as though I have always understood that missionary calls are divinely inspired. I understand that each missionary is assigned to the mission that they are truly meant to be in. In a talk given in the 2010 General Conference Priesthood session, Elder Rasband spoke on the process in which calls are made.

"I joined Elder Eyring early one morning in a room where several large computer screens had been prepared for the session. There was also a staff member from the Missionary Department who had been assigned to assist us that day.

First, we knelt together in prayer. I remember Elder Eyring using very sincere words, asking the Lord to bless him to know “perfectly” where the missionaries should be assigned. The word “perfectly” said much about the faith that Elder Eyring exhibited that day.

As the process began, a picture of the missionary to be assigned would come up on one of the computer screens. As each picture appeared, to me it was as if the missionary were in the room with us. Elder Eyring would then greet the missionary with his kind and endearing voice: “Good morning, Elder Reier or Sister Yang. How are you today?”

He told me that in his own mind he liked to think of where the missionaries would conclude their mission. This would aid him to know where they were to be assigned. Elder Eyring would then study the comments from the bishops and stake presidents, medical notes, and other issues relating to each missionary.

He then referred to another screen which displayed areas and missions across the world. Finally, as he was prompted by the Spirit, he would assign the missionary to his or her field of labor.

From others of the Twelve, I have learned that this general method is typical each week as Apostles of the Lord assign scores of missionaries to serve throughout the world." (The Divine Call of a Missionary Ronald A. Rasband)


This quote only served to reiterate what I have always known: Each and every call is divinely inspired from God.

Now having said that, I was completely caught off guard by my own emotions towards my mission call. Don't get me wrong, I felt the spirit so strong and I know that my assignment to serve in New Zealand is truly from God. However, I have to ask myself  "Why am I supposed to go to New Zealand?" and "What do I have to offer to the people of Auckland?". I guess its not that I am questioning whether or not this call is from God, but I am trying to figure out the reason behind it. There is a reason or a person that is responsible for my assignment to New Zealand, I just need to be prepared so when the moment comes I can fulfill my purpose. Wow that is a lot of pressure! It's a good thing I guess that I have FOREVER to prepare. :)