Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." -- Heb. 13:2
It was a cool November afternoon in 1996. I was standing at my kitchen window washing dishes when I saw two young men in dark suits walking up to my neighbor's front door. I knew they were missionaries of some kind and that they would come to my house next. I debated whether or not to answer my door because I had always turned away missionaries of any kind.However, for the last 11 months I had been searching intently for truth, which had begun with my first sincere prayer to God for understanding and help. For 11 months I had fervently prayed and studied the Bible daily, thirstily seeking answers to my deepest questions.
So while debating whether or not to answer my door, I prayed to know what I should do. I recalled Hebrews 13:2 and a vow I had previously made to myself to act upon that verse the next time missionaries of any kind came to my door. I decided I would answer the door and listen.
They were missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a church of which I knew nothing. They spoke with me for a few minutes and gave me a Book of Mormon. After they departed I read the passages they marked, then knelt at my bedside and prayed to know if it was true. I felt a peacefulness and a desire to read more.
Six weeks later my husband and I were baptized and a year after our baptism, we and our children were sealed in the Los Angeles Temple.
Looking back, I can see that acting upon the scripture in Hebrews was a pivotal turning point in my eternal destiny. -- Paige Johnson, Ojai, Calif.
"Living by the Scriptures" is another in a series of Church News reader-response articles. Was there a time when a particular scripture touched you, when it offered comfort, guidance and much-needed support? If so, please describe your experience in 250-300 words, giving the scripture reference and telling how it affected you. Send your submission to Church News, P.O. Box 1257, Salt Lake City, Utah 84110. Fax No. (801) 237-2524. Internet e-mail: churchnews@desnews.com.