Mormon 1:1. "I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard"

We, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, are often referred to as 'Mormons'.  My understanding is that this nickname started out as a derogatory term for those who believed in the Book of Mormon.  I imagine that most outside our faith have little understanding of what is behind that name ‘Mormon’.

The prophet Mormon authored, edited and compiled the Book of Mormon.  We learn in Mormon chapter 2, that, like Nephi, Mormon was large in stature.  I imagine this is likely speaking both spiritually and physically. Probably also in reputation. It is interesting that even though most everyone around him was wicked, they apparently respected and appreciated the righteousness of Mormon.  Most people who call us ‘Mormons’ likely have no idea that it is after this amazing man. I want to be more like Mormon.  He is a lower light that guides me to the Savior.  Like him, we can sometimes feel alone in our beliefs, but we can be valiant and strong.

In 3 Nephi 5:12, we learn that Mormon was named after the land of Mormon, which we learned of in Mosiah chapter 18.  In the beginning of Mosiah 18, the land of Mormon wasn't made to sound like a very desirable place.  It was in the borders of the land.  It was infested with wild beasts.  It was given its name by the wicked king who sought to kill Alma and those who believed.  However, by the end of the chapter, it became a beautiful place to the people who went there to learn of Christ.  It was the place they began to follow their Savior.  It was the place they made covenants with Him to become His children.  They loved the land of Mormon.

So when we are called ‘Mormons’, we are being called after this prophet, who was called after this place where many came to be converted to the Lord.  We are a people that also desire to be converted to the Lord, and we have authority to administer the ordinances that are associated with the covenants and the power that make this possible.  Like the land of Mormon, we may seem undesirable to some, but for those who truly desire to become like their Savior, we invite them to come and see what the Mormons have to offer!

Of course, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we do not follow Mormon, we follow Christ - thus the name of the church.  However, it is also an honor to be associated with this great prophet and this land where long ago many came unto Christ and entered into covenants to become His followers and become like Him.  When I am called a Mormon, this is what I feel it represents - that I am one that, like Mormon, Alma and the people at the waters of Mormon, seeks Christ, makes covenants with Him, and tries to be more fully converted to Him.