Light of the World
Light of the World
President Quinn’s Weekly Message
California Santa Rosa Mission
July 28th, 2025
It has been a busy few weeks for Sister Quinn and me. Four of our five children have been with us in the month of July, with 16 of our 20 grandchildren. We have enjoyed spending time with our children and grandchildren. It has been a challenge balancing the duties of mission leaders with those of grandparents. Thank you for your flexibility throughout this transfer.
On Friday we traveled to the Point Reyes lighthouse with our daughter, Melissa, and her family. This lighthouse was built in 1870. It sits on a high cliff above the ocean. The view is amazing – and worth the climb down and up the 313 steps to visit the lighthouse. I highly recommend making the trip when you serve in the San Rafael Zone.
During our visit, we were instructed by a park ranger that there are two main purposes for a lighthouse. First, to provide warning to mariners of rocks or land that could damage a ship. Second, to provide navigation to a mariner. Each lighthouse signals to mariners with a unique light pattern. For example, the Point Reyes lighthouse flashes a light every five seconds. Mariners sailing along the coastline were able to confirm their location by the unique light pattern emitted by each lighthouse along their route.
Since visiting the Point Reyes lighthouse, I have reflected on the importance of light in our spiritual lives. The Savior has described himself as the “light of the world.” (3 Nephi 9:18) Just as mariners received protection and direction from lighthouses during their journeys, the Savior provides us light to safely and successfully navigate our lives. The scriptures are full of examples where the Savior’s light provided guidance. One of my favorites is when Nephi tries for a third time to retrieve the brass plates from Laban:
“And it was by night; … I, Nephi, crept into the city and went forth towards the house of Laban. And I was led by the Spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which I should do. Nevertheless I went forth…” (1 Nephi 4:5-7)
Do you see how Nephi, despite working in the darkness of night, relied on light from the Spirit to guide his steps for retrieving the brass plates from Laban. Later in this chapter we read how the Spirit’s guidance allowed Nephi to obtain the plates.
The Savior has promised us His light through our obedience:
“I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” (John 8:12).
I am grateful for the light I receive from the Spirit. The Savior’s light has illuminated my mind – and the path before me. I have been able to move forward in my life with confidence knowing the path I am on is in accordance with His will.
As our world becomes darker and more unsettled – feeling, following, and sharing the Savior’s light will become more crucial for each of us. We are promised weekly in the sacramental prayers that the light of the Spirit will always sustain and strengthen us as we obey the commandments. Like a lighthouse on a dark ocean, we can have faith and courage that the Savior’s light, beaming towards us through the Spirit, can pierce any darkness. Helping us avoid the hazards of life and leading us safely home.
I invite you to always seek and follow the light offered to you by Jesus Christ. I testify that He is the “light and life” of the world.
Sister Quinn and I are grateful to serve with you. We are grateful and inspired by the dedicated service we see from you across CASRM. May the Lord bless you in His important work.
Love,
President Quinn
(630) 881-4030
