On Tuesday, May 16, at 11:30 a.m. in the BYU-Idaho Center, Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared his devotional talk, which centered on succession in both a modern and biblical sense.
He began by sharing a passage from the Old Testament, in 2 Kings when Elisha succeeded Elijah as a prophet. He explained that Elisha followed Elijah’s powerful example in being a strong leader and related this to President Henry J. Eyring as he announced the end of his service as president of BYU-Idaho.
“President Eyring has lifted those around him with his leadership, deep commitment to you students, and ongoing efforts to preserve and strengthen the culture and spirit of this great university,” Elder Christofferson said. “I express deep gratitude and love to President Henry J. and Sister Kelly Eyring for their exceptional service.”
Elder Christofferson then announced Elder Alvin F. Meredith III as the new president of BYU-I, specifying that President Eyring would continue in the role until August 1. President and Sister Eyring then gave brief messages, then President and Sister Meredith followed suit.
Continuing the theme of succession, Elder Christofferson shared the story of Moses and Joshua in the Bible and emphasized the moment when Moses set Joshua apart as a leader of Israel. He mentioned to students that each of them are successors of Moses and Joshua in the covenants they have made with Heavenly Father. These covenants, as he explained, help individuals to open and close chapters throughout their lives.
“Each of you is living your own ‘new chapter’,” Elder Christofferson said. “Other chapters and challenges await in the future. What does it mean to you day by day to be bound in covenant with the Father and the Son?”
In closing, Elder Christofferson shared his gratitude for President and Sister Eyring’s leadership and promised blessings to President and Sister Meredith. He also promised blessings to those who would continue to put their faith in Christ and follow Heavenly Father’s commandments and covenants.
“Above all, I rejoice in your growing covenant relationship with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ,” Elder Christofferson said. “I know that They are living, glorious Beings; I know that with His Atonement, all power has been given to Jesus Christ in Heaven and in Earth.”