Joseph Smith. I don't know everything about this man. I know he was a prophet. I am inclined to think the best prophet the American continent has ever known.
The things Joseph did are insurmountable to really put into a single blog, but John Taylor once summarized it in a single sentence "Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it." D&C 135:3
My faith in Jesus Christ is through Joseph Smith's work and calling. I know the Lord because of Joseph Smith. That is what a prophet does; shows us the way to God. I love Joseph Smith for the persistence he showed throughout his life. John Taylor goes on-
In the short space of twenty years, he has brought forth the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and power of God, and has been the means of publishing it on two continents; has sent the fulness of the everlasting gospel, which it contained, to the four quarters of the earth; has brought forth the revelations and commandments which compose this book of Doctrine and Covenants, and many other wise documents and instructions for the benefit of the children of men; gathered many thousands of the Latter-day Saints, founded a great city, and left a fame and name that cannot be slain. D&C 135:3
He did many more acts of kindness and patience. He gave people so much hope and love toward each other and to God. He shined a light on Christianity and gave it back to God by the power of communication between God and man. I love him.
Often times Mormons are criticized for making too much of Joseph. I don't think we make enough of him. I think Joseph shows us that we can achieve so many great things if we exhibit an astounding amount of never failing faith and love for God. He was taught and humbled by God. He was murdered by a mob and died for the work of Jesus Christ.
He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. In life they were not divided, and in death they were not separated!
