The Newest Prophet

It occurred to me today, as I was reading the Ensign dedicated to last GC that the manner in which President Monson was called as a prophet is somewhat unclear to me.

In most organizations, to elect a new President, a board will vote or already have a method for inducting a new President into his role.

In our church, a Prophet is called of God. And I believe this and I'm not questioning it but I'm merely looking at the logistics of all this in a way I never have before. And it's become clear to me why it is so important for each member to hit their knees to have their own revelation that the new Prophet is indeed the one called of God.

President Monson likely received his own revelation but it would be a little presumptuous for him to stand up and say, "Hey you guys, I've been called of God - believe it!". All of the members of the First Presidency would have all had to have their own revelations, and then come together to compare notes to ensure that they were all on the same page.

I marvel at the faith this must take in order to make such a big decision! And I am feeling now that I should receive my own revelation; something I haven't done yet because I merely took for granted that they were right. But that's not the point, is it? All of the members of the church need to know - or else no one knows.

I appreciate that so much! Now if only would could elect our nations' leaders like that perhaps we'd have less conflicts. I might be on to something there!