God’s word abounds with references to the eternal blessings promised for standing firm and enduring to the end. Abraham received great promises, but only after patiently waiting (Hebrews 6:15).

In the parable of the sower, Jesus warned against those who receive the word with gladness, but last only briefly, lacking sufficient depth to allow seeds of faith to take root (Mark 4:16-17).

Jesus Himself said: “He that endureth to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 10:22).

Recently we have lost (and heaven has gained) two giants of faith: Billy Graham, known as “America’s Preacher” and “Pastor to Presidents,” who died Feb. 21 at age 99; and Thomas S. Monson, 16th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who passed away Jan. 2 at age 90. Despite health challenges, both were devout disciples who persevered faithfully to the end.

Throughout his lifetime, the Rev. Graham preached to thousands celebrating Christ. President Monson oversaw exponential increases in the number of missionaries and efforts to plant Gospel seeds beyond the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. Yet what impresses me most about both men is how they ministered to individuals. Billy Graham was known for living humbly and prayerfully, and for treating hotel maids, restaurant waiters, and airport staff with the same kindness and respect that he showed heads of state. Returning from East Germany, Thomas S. Monson could be seen walking through airports in a pair of house slippers, having given away shirts, suits, and shoes to those in need.

Likewise, we don’t have to travel the world to demonstrate our discipleship. We can do that every day in the Heart of Virginia. Among our brothers and sisters, there are hungry to feed, weak hands to strengthen and feeble knees to support (Isaiah 35:3). Whether preparing and distributing food through FACES, spending time with the lonely in a care facility, or walking across the street to help a neighbor, we can each do our part to ease others’ burdens and help them know they are children of God. The ultimate example of standing firm is Jesus Christ. He blessed the sick, raised the dead and “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38).

As we persist patiently and endure to the end, may the words of the hymn ring in our hearts: Patient, firm and persevering No event nor danger fearing, Pains nor toils nor trials heeding, And in heaven’s good time succeeding, Godspeed the Right!

BRENT ROBERTS is the Branch Presidency First Counselor in the Sandy River Branch, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and also Dean of Greenwood Library at Longwood University. He can be reached at brentsroberts@hotmail.com.