Keith B. McMullin

April 2001
There is safety in being a Saint. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ today are known as Latter-day Saints. In addition to being the Lord's designation of those who belong to His Church, this appellation also serves as His invitation to a better way of life.
This became clear to me some years ago when, as a young father, I needed to purchase some temple clothing. Upon entering the store, my attention was drawn to a sign on the counter that read "For Latter-day Saints Only." The message jolted me. In my mind, an argument ensued. Why does it say "For Latter-day Saints Only"? I asked myself. Why doesn't it say something like "For Endowed Church Members"? Why does it raise this issue of being a "Latter-day Saint"?
The years since have tempered my impetuous nature. That argumentative encounter of long ago has become a treasured, defining moment. The experience taught me that just being a member of this Church is not enough. Nor is merely going through the motions of membership sufficient in this day of cynicism and unbelief. The spirituality and vigilance of a saint are required.