WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:07.350 align:middle line:90% 00:00:07.350 --> 00:00:10.650 align:middle line:84% From the Conference Center at Temple Square in Salt Lake 00:00:10.650 --> 00:00:14.140 align:middle line:84% City, this is the Saturday afternoon session 00:00:14.140 --> 00:00:18.360 align:middle line:84% of the 188th Semiannual General Conference 00:00:18.360 --> 00:00:21.980 align:middle line:84% of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 00:00:21.980 --> 00:00:25.800 align:middle line:84% with speakers selected from the General Authorities and General 00:00:25.800 --> 00:00:27.480 align:middle line:90% Officers of the Church. 00:00:27.480 --> 00:00:30.090 align:middle line:84% The music for this session is provided 00:00:30.090 --> 00:00:32.470 align:middle line:84% by a combined choir of missionaries 00:00:32.470 --> 00:00:35.670 align:middle line:84% from the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah. 00:00:35.670 --> 00:00:38.330 align:middle line:90% 00:00:38.330 --> 00:00:40.990 align:middle line:84% This broadcast is furnished as a public service 00:00:40.990 --> 00:00:42.670 align:middle line:90% by Bonneville Distribution. 00:00:42.670 --> 00:00:45.640 align:middle line:84% Any reproduction, recording, transcription, 00:00:45.640 --> 00:00:48.937 align:middle line:84% or other use of this program without written consent 00:00:48.937 --> 00:00:49.520 align:middle line:90% is prohibited. 00:00:49.520 --> 00:00:53.280 align:middle line:90% 00:00:53.280 --> 00:00:56.460 align:middle line:84% President Dallin H. Oaks, First Counselor 00:00:56.460 --> 00:00:58.520 align:middle line:84% in the First Presidency of the Church, 00:00:58.520 --> 00:01:00.050 align:middle line:90% will conduct this session. 00:01:00.050 --> 00:01:11.840 align:middle line:90% 00:01:11.840 --> 00:01:14.680 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, we welcome you 00:01:14.680 --> 00:01:19.880 align:middle line:84% to the Saturday afternoon session of the 188th Semiannual 00:01:19.880 --> 00:01:23.460 align:middle line:84% General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 00:01:23.460 --> 00:01:24.690 align:middle line:90% Saints. 00:01:24.690 --> 00:01:29.180 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson, who presides at this conference, 00:01:29.180 --> 00:01:33.040 align:middle line:84% has asked that I conduct this session. 00:01:33.040 --> 00:01:35.360 align:middle line:84% We extend our greetings to all who 00:01:35.360 --> 00:01:38.620 align:middle line:84% are in attendance or who are participating 00:01:38.620 --> 00:01:42.790 align:middle line:84% by means of television, radio, or the internet. 00:01:42.790 --> 00:01:45.510 align:middle line:84% We also welcome those who are viewing 00:01:45.510 --> 00:01:49.880 align:middle line:84% the proceedings in stake centers in various parts of the world 00:01:49.880 --> 00:01:52.120 align:middle line:84% where the conference is being carried 00:01:52.120 --> 00:01:55.970 align:middle line:90% by satellite transmission. 00:01:55.970 --> 00:01:58.380 align:middle line:84% The music for this session will be 00:01:58.380 --> 00:02:01.910 align:middle line:84% provided by a combined choir of missionaries 00:02:01.910 --> 00:02:05.590 align:middle line:84% from the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah, 00:02:05.590 --> 00:02:10.030 align:middle line:84% under the direction of Ryan Eggett and Elmo Keck, 00:02:10.030 --> 00:02:14.720 align:middle line:84% with Linda Margetts and Bonnie Goodliffe at the organ. 00:02:14.720 --> 00:02:17.360 align:middle line:84% The choir will open this meeting by singing 00:02:17.360 --> 00:02:19.590 align:middle line:90% "Hark, All Ye Nations!" 00:02:19.590 --> 00:02:24.070 align:middle line:84% The invocation will then be offered by Sister Sharon L. 00:02:24.070 --> 00:02:29.250 align:middle line:84% Eubank, who serves as First Counselor in the Relief Society 00:02:29.250 --> 00:02:30.135 align:middle line:90% General Presidency. 00:02:30.135 --> 00:02:36.039 align:middle line:90% 00:02:36.039 --> 00:05:50.865 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "HARK, ALL YE NATIONS!"] 00:05:50.865 --> 00:06:00.270 align:middle line:90% 00:06:00.270 --> 00:06:02.763 align:middle line:84% Our Father in Heaven, it's with deep gratitude 00:06:02.763 --> 00:06:05.880 align:middle line:84% that we gather together in a great general conference, 00:06:05.880 --> 00:06:08.210 align:middle line:84% the family of God all over the world. 00:06:08.210 --> 00:06:12.510 align:middle line:84% We're so thankful to be presided over by President Russell M. 00:06:12.510 --> 00:06:13.010 align:middle line:90% Nelson. 00:06:13.010 --> 00:06:15.650 align:middle line:84% We pray Thy blessings upon him and the First Presidency 00:06:15.650 --> 00:06:17.030 align:middle line:90% and the Twelve. 00:06:17.030 --> 00:06:20.270 align:middle line:84% We're mindful of President Ballard and his family. 00:06:20.270 --> 00:06:23.580 align:middle line:84% We're so thankful for Sister Ballard, her contribution 00:06:23.580 --> 00:06:27.804 align:middle line:84% and example, and we extend our love to them. 00:06:27.804 --> 00:06:30.220 align:middle line:84% Father in Heaven, wilt Thou be with us at this conference? 00:06:30.220 --> 00:06:32.320 align:middle line:90% Wilt Thou send Thy Spirit? 00:06:32.320 --> 00:06:36.000 align:middle line:84% And may we call it forth also from the faith and the devotion 00:06:36.000 --> 00:06:39.510 align:middle line:84% that's in our hearts, that an abundant feast might 00:06:39.510 --> 00:06:40.830 align:middle line:90% be with us. 00:06:40.830 --> 00:06:42.866 align:middle line:90% We're thankful to be Christians. 00:06:42.866 --> 00:06:44.990 align:middle line:84% We're thankful to be members of The Church of Jesus 00:06:44.990 --> 00:06:47.650 align:middle line:84% Christ of Latter-day Saints and pray that we might stand 00:06:47.650 --> 00:06:49.000 align:middle line:90% as witnesses in the world. 00:06:49.000 --> 00:06:52.310 align:middle line:84% Be with us this day, we pray, in the name of our Savior, Jesus 00:06:52.310 --> 00:06:53.310 align:middle line:90% Christ, amen. 00:06:53.310 --> 00:07:02.610 align:middle line:90% 00:07:02.610 --> 00:07:05.270 align:middle line:84% President Henry B. Eyring, Second Counselor 00:07:05.270 --> 00:07:07.570 align:middle line:84% in the First Presidency, will now 00:07:07.570 --> 00:07:11.740 align:middle line:84% present the General Officers and Area Seventies of the Church 00:07:11.740 --> 00:07:13.260 align:middle line:90% for sustaining vote. 00:07:13.260 --> 00:07:21.980 align:middle line:90% 00:07:21.980 --> 00:07:25.270 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, I will now present to you 00:07:25.270 --> 00:07:28.690 align:middle line:84% the General Authorities, Area Seventies, 00:07:28.690 --> 00:07:32.480 align:middle line:84% and General Auxiliary Presidencies of the Church 00:07:32.480 --> 00:07:35.690 align:middle line:90% for your sustaining vote. 00:07:35.690 --> 00:07:39.650 align:middle line:84% It is proposed that we sustain Russell Marion 00:07:39.650 --> 00:07:45.000 align:middle line:84% Nelson as prophet, seer, and revelator and President 00:07:45.000 --> 00:07:49.080 align:middle line:84% of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; 00:07:49.080 --> 00:07:53.450 align:middle line:84% Dallin Harris Oaks as First Counselor in the First 00:07:53.450 --> 00:07:57.920 align:middle line:84% Presidency; and Henry Bennion Eyring as Second Counselor 00:07:57.920 --> 00:08:00.060 align:middle line:90% in the First Presidency. 00:08:00.060 --> 00:08:04.550 align:middle line:90% Those in favor may manifest it. 00:08:04.550 --> 00:08:08.690 align:middle line:84% Those opposed, if any, may manifest it. 00:08:08.690 --> 00:08:13.140 align:middle line:84% It is proposed that we sustain Dallin H. Oaks as President 00:08:13.140 --> 00:08:17.820 align:middle line:84% of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and M. Russell Ballard 00:08:17.820 --> 00:08:22.000 align:middle line:84% as Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 00:08:22.000 --> 00:08:24.783 align:middle line:90% Those in favor, please signify. 00:08:24.783 --> 00:08:27.390 align:middle line:90% 00:08:27.390 --> 00:08:30.090 align:middle line:90% Any opposed may manifest it. 00:08:30.090 --> 00:08:33.409 align:middle line:84% It is proposed that we sustain the following as members 00:08:33.409 --> 00:08:37.740 align:middle line:84% of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: M. Russell 00:08:37.740 --> 00:08:44.910 align:middle line:84% Ballard, Jeffrey R. Holland, Dieter F. Uchtdorf, David A. 00:08:44.910 --> 00:08:51.830 align:middle line:84% Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Christofferson, Neil L. 00:08:51.830 --> 00:08:58.980 align:middle line:84% Andersen, Ronald A. Rasband, Gary E. Stevenson, Dale G. 00:08:58.980 --> 00:09:05.090 align:middle line:84% Renlund, Gerrit W. Gong, and Ulisses Soares. 00:09:05.090 --> 00:09:09.310 align:middle line:84% Those in favor, please manifest it. 00:09:09.310 --> 00:09:12.870 align:middle line:90% Any opposed may so indicate. 00:09:12.870 --> 00:09:16.270 align:middle line:84% It is proposed that we sustain the counselors in the First 00:09:16.270 --> 00:09:20.250 align:middle line:84% Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles 00:09:20.250 --> 00:09:24.060 align:middle line:84% as prophets, seers, and revelators. 00:09:24.060 --> 00:09:27.730 align:middle line:84% All in favor, please manifest it. 00:09:27.730 --> 00:09:31.730 align:middle line:84% Contrary, if there be any, by the same sign. 00:09:31.730 --> 00:09:35.160 align:middle line:84% It is proposed that we sustain Brook P. 00:09:35.160 --> 00:09:39.810 align:middle line:84% Hales, who has been called to serve as a General Authority 00:09:39.810 --> 00:09:41.330 align:middle line:90% Seventy. 00:09:41.330 --> 00:09:45.140 align:middle line:84% Those in favor, please manifest it. 00:09:45.140 --> 00:09:49.840 align:middle line:84% Those opposed, if any, may so manifest. 00:09:49.840 --> 00:09:52.230 align:middle line:84% It is proposed that we release with appreciation 00:09:52.230 --> 00:09:58.980 align:middle line:84% for their devoted service Elders Mervyn B. Arnold, Craig A. 00:09:58.980 --> 00:10:07.540 align:middle line:84% Cardon, Larry J. Echo Hawk, C. Scott Grow, Allan F. Packer, 00:10:07.540 --> 00:10:11.290 align:middle line:84% Gregory A. Schwitzer, and Claudio D. 00:10:11.290 --> 00:10:16.120 align:middle line:84% Zivic as General Authorities and grant them emeritus status. 00:10:16.120 --> 00:10:19.290 align:middle line:84% Those who wish to join with us in expressing gratitude 00:10:19.290 --> 00:10:22.460 align:middle line:84% to these Brethren for their remarkable service, 00:10:22.460 --> 00:10:23.490 align:middle line:90% please so manifest. 00:10:23.490 --> 00:10:26.130 align:middle line:90% 00:10:26.130 --> 00:10:30.380 align:middle line:84% It is proposed that we release the following as Area 00:10:30.380 --> 00:10:39.780 align:middle line:84% Seventies: B. Sergio Antunes, Alan C. Batt, R. Randall Bluth, 00:10:39.780 --> 00:10:48.790 align:middle line:84% Hans T. Boom, Fernando E. Calderon, H. Marcelo Cardus, 00:10:48.790 --> 00:10:55.370 align:middle line:84% Paul R. Coward, Marion B. De Antunano, Robert A. Dryden, 00:10:55.370 --> 00:11:01.610 align:middle line:84% Daniel F. Dunnigan, Jeffrey D. Erekson, Mervyn C. Giddey, 00:11:01.610 --> 00:11:08.970 align:middle line:84% Joao Roberto Grahl, Richard K. Hansen, Todd B. Hansen, 00:11:08.970 --> 00:11:16.580 align:middle line:84% Michael R. Jensen, Daniel W. Jones, Steven O. Laing, Axel H. 00:11:16.580 --> 00:11:27.970 align:middle line:84% Leimer, Tasara Makasi, Alvin F. Meredith III, Adonay S. Obando, 00:11:27.970 --> 00:11:36.790 align:middle line:84% Katsuyuki Otahara, Fred A. Parker, Jose C. Pineda, Gary S. 00:11:36.790 --> 00:11:42.690 align:middle line:84% Price, Miguel A. Reyes, Alfredo L. Salas, 00:11:42.690 --> 00:11:49.280 align:middle line:84% Netzahualcoyotl Salinas, Michael L. Southward, G. 00:11:49.280 --> 00:11:54.920 align:middle line:84% Lawrence Spackman, William H. Stoddard, Stephen E. Thompson, 00:11:54.920 --> 00:12:01.770 align:middle line:84% David J. Thomson, George J. Tobias, Jacques A. Van Reenen, 00:12:01.770 --> 00:12:11.230 align:middle line:84% Raul Edgardo Vicencio, Keith P. Walker, Daniel Yirenya-Tawiah. 00:12:11.230 --> 00:12:14.160 align:middle line:84% Those who wish to join us in expressing appreciation 00:12:14.160 --> 00:12:19.520 align:middle line:84% for their excellent service, please manifest it. 00:12:19.520 --> 00:12:22.350 align:middle line:84% It is proposed that we sustain the other General Authorities, 00:12:22.350 --> 00:12:25.890 align:middle line:84% Area Seventies, and General Auxiliary Presidencies 00:12:25.890 --> 00:12:28.220 align:middle line:90% as presently constituted. 00:12:28.220 --> 00:12:31.900 align:middle line:84% All in favor, please manifest it. 00:12:31.900 --> 00:12:35.480 align:middle line:84% Contrary, if there be any, by the same sign. 00:12:35.480 --> 00:12:38.810 align:middle line:84% Those who opposed any of the proposals should contact 00:12:38.810 --> 00:12:40.610 align:middle line:90% their stake president. 00:12:40.610 --> 00:12:43.990 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, we are grateful for your continued 00:12:43.990 --> 00:12:48.680 align:middle line:84% faith and prayers in behalf of the leaders of the Church. 00:12:48.680 --> 00:12:56.740 align:middle line:90% 00:12:56.740 --> 00:13:01.260 align:middle line:84% The choir will now favor us with a medley of "I Will Be Valiant" 00:13:01.260 --> 00:13:04.250 align:middle line:84% and "The Church of Jesus Christ." 00:13:04.250 --> 00:13:07.550 align:middle line:84% Following the singing, we will hear from Elder D. 00:13:07.550 --> 00:13:11.570 align:middle line:84% Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 00:13:11.570 --> 00:13:15.350 align:middle line:84% He will be followed by Bishop Dean M. Davies, 00:13:15.350 --> 00:13:19.700 align:middle line:84% who serves as First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric. 00:13:19.700 --> 00:13:23.960 align:middle line:84% Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles 00:13:23.960 --> 00:13:25.280 align:middle line:90% will then address us. 00:13:25.280 --> 00:13:31.754 align:middle line:90% 00:13:31.754 --> 00:16:55.257 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "I WILL BE VALIANT--THE CHURCH OF JESUS 00:16:55.257 --> 00:16:55.757 align:middle line:90% CHRIST"] 00:16:55.757 --> 00:17:03.866 align:middle line:90% 00:17:03.866 --> 00:17:05.780 align:middle line:90% Thank you, sisters and elders. 00:17:05.780 --> 00:17:08.690 align:middle line:90% We are with you. 00:17:08.690 --> 00:17:13.240 align:middle line:84% In Old Testament history, we read of successive periods when 00:17:13.240 --> 00:17:16.130 align:middle line:84% the children of Israel honored their covenant with Jehovah 00:17:16.130 --> 00:17:20.800 align:middle line:84% and worshipped Him and other times when they ignored that 00:17:20.800 --> 00:17:24.980 align:middle line:84% covenant and worshipped idols or Baalim. 00:17:24.980 --> 00:17:28.390 align:middle line:84% The reign of Ahab was one of the periods of apostasy 00:17:28.390 --> 00:17:30.530 align:middle line:84% in the northern kingdom of Israel. 00:17:30.530 --> 00:17:35.160 align:middle line:84% The prophet Elijah on one occasion told King Ahab 00:17:35.160 --> 00:17:39.160 align:middle line:84% to gather the people of Israel as well as the prophets 00:17:39.160 --> 00:17:42.880 align:middle line:84% or priests of Baal at Mount Carmel. 00:17:42.880 --> 00:17:45.600 align:middle line:84% When the people had come together, 00:17:45.600 --> 00:17:51.360 align:middle line:84% Elijah said unto them: "How long halt ye between two opinions? 00:17:51.360 --> 00:17:56.030 align:middle line:84% [Or in other words, "When will you decide once and for all?"] 00:17:56.030 --> 00:18:02.910 align:middle line:84% if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. 00:18:02.910 --> 00:18:06.520 align:middle line:84% And the people answered him not a word." 00:18:06.520 --> 00:18:11.910 align:middle line:84% So Elijah directed that both he and Baal's prophets cut up 00:18:11.910 --> 00:18:16.340 align:middle line:84% a young bull and place it on a bed of wood on their respective 00:18:16.340 --> 00:18:20.090 align:middle line:90% altars, but "put no fire under." 00:18:20.090 --> 00:18:24.260 align:middle line:84% Then, "Call ye on the name of your gods, 00:18:24.260 --> 00:18:27.200 align:middle line:84% and I will call on the name of the Lord: 00:18:27.200 --> 00:18:31.280 align:middle line:84% and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. 00:18:31.280 --> 00:18:37.270 align:middle line:84% And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken." 00:18:37.270 --> 00:18:40.300 align:middle line:84% You will recall that the priests of Baal clamored 00:18:40.300 --> 00:18:45.000 align:middle line:84% to their nonexistent god for hours to send down fire, 00:18:45.000 --> 00:18:48.530 align:middle line:84% but "there was neither voice, nor any to answer, 00:18:48.530 --> 00:18:50.640 align:middle line:90% nor any that regarded." 00:18:50.640 --> 00:18:54.930 align:middle line:84% When it was Elijah's turn, he repaired the broken-down altar 00:18:54.930 --> 00:18:59.650 align:middle line:84% of the Lord, laid the wood and the offering upon it, 00:18:59.650 --> 00:19:04.760 align:middle line:84% and then ordered that it all be doused with water, 00:19:04.760 --> 00:19:07.290 align:middle line:90% not once but three times. 00:19:07.290 --> 00:19:11.400 align:middle line:84% There was no doubt that neither he nor any other human power 00:19:11.400 --> 00:19:13.830 align:middle line:90% could light the fire. 00:19:13.830 --> 00:19:16.850 align:middle line:84% "And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening 00:19:16.850 --> 00:19:21.070 align:middle line:84% sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, 00:19:21.070 --> 00:19:24.720 align:middle line:84% Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, 00:19:24.720 --> 00:19:29.660 align:middle line:84% let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, 00:19:29.660 --> 00:19:32.900 align:middle line:84% and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these 00:19:32.900 --> 00:19:35.900 align:middle line:90% things at thy word. ... 00:19:35.900 --> 00:19:39.000 align:middle line:84% "Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt 00:19:39.000 --> 00:19:42.630 align:middle line:84% sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, 00:19:42.630 --> 00:19:46.320 align:middle line:84% and licked up the water that was in the trench. 00:19:46.320 --> 00:19:48.940 align:middle line:84% "And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: 00:19:48.940 --> 00:19:53.790 align:middle line:84% and they said, The Lord, he is the God; the Lord, 00:19:53.790 --> 00:19:56.870 align:middle line:90% he is the God." 00:19:56.870 --> 00:19:59.830 align:middle line:90% Today Elijah might say: 00:19:59.830 --> 00:20:02.970 align:middle line:84% Either God, our Heavenly Father, exists or He does not, 00:20:02.970 --> 00:20:07.070 align:middle line:90% but if He exists, worship Him. 00:20:07.070 --> 00:20:09.310 align:middle line:84% Either Jesus Christ is the Son of God, 00:20:09.310 --> 00:20:12.780 align:middle line:84% the resurrected Redeemer of mankind, or He is not, 00:20:12.780 --> 00:20:16.640 align:middle line:90% but if He is, follow Him. 00:20:16.640 --> 00:20:19.990 align:middle line:84% Either the Book of Mormon is the word of God or it is not, 00:20:19.990 --> 00:20:24.940 align:middle line:84% but if it is, then "get nearer to God by [studying and] 00:20:24.940 --> 00:20:27.780 align:middle line:90% abiding by its precepts." 00:20:27.780 --> 00:20:30.910 align:middle line:84% Either Joseph Smith saw and conversed with the Father 00:20:30.910 --> 00:20:36.030 align:middle line:84% and the Son that spring day of 1820 or he did not, 00:20:36.030 --> 00:20:40.520 align:middle line:84% but if he did, then follow the prophetic mantle, 00:20:40.520 --> 00:20:43.700 align:middle line:84% including the keys of sealing that I, Elijah, 00:20:43.700 --> 00:20:46.950 align:middle line:90% bestowed upon him. 00:20:46.950 --> 00:20:48.690 align:middle line:84% In the most recent general conference, 00:20:48.690 --> 00:20:51.070 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson declared: 00:20:51.070 --> 00:20:53.760 align:middle line:84% "You don't have to wonder about what is true. 00:20:53.760 --> 00:20:57.100 align:middle line:84% You do not have to wonder whom you can safely trust. 00:20:57.100 --> 00:21:00.630 align:middle line:84% Through personal revelation, you can receive your own witness 00:21:00.630 --> 00:21:02.720 align:middle line:84% that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, 00:21:02.720 --> 00:21:06.070 align:middle line:84% that Joseph Smith is a prophet, and that this is 00:21:06.070 --> 00:21:07.430 align:middle line:90% the Lord's Church. 00:21:07.430 --> 00:21:09.950 align:middle line:84% Regardless of what others may say or do, 00:21:09.950 --> 00:21:13.360 align:middle line:84% no one can ever take away a witness borne to your heart 00:21:13.360 --> 00:21:18.310 align:middle line:90% and mind about what is true." 00:21:18.310 --> 00:21:21.550 align:middle line:84% When James promised that God "giveth to all men liberally" 00:21:21.550 --> 00:21:24.620 align:middle line:84% who seek His wisdom, he also cautioned: 00:21:24.620 --> 00:21:27.370 align:middle line:84% "But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. 00:21:27.370 --> 00:21:30.780 align:middle line:84% For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with 00:21:30.780 --> 00:21:32.680 align:middle line:90% the wind and tossed. 00:21:32.680 --> 00:21:35.670 align:middle line:84% "For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing 00:21:35.670 --> 00:21:37.190 align:middle line:90% of the Lord. 00:21:37.190 --> 00:21:42.640 align:middle line:84% "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." 00:21:42.640 --> 00:21:45.470 align:middle line:84% Our Savior, on the other hand, was the perfect example 00:21:45.470 --> 00:21:46.740 align:middle line:90% of stability. 00:21:46.740 --> 00:21:50.080 align:middle line:84% He said, "The Father hath not left me alone; 00:21:50.080 --> 00:21:54.290 align:middle line:84% for I do always those things that please him." 00:21:54.290 --> 00:21:58.460 align:middle line:84% Consider these descriptions from the scriptures of men and women 00:21:58.460 --> 00:22:03.940 align:middle line:84% who, like the Savior, were firm and steadfast: 00:22:03.940 --> 00:22:06.370 align:middle line:84% They "were converted unto the true faith; 00:22:06.370 --> 00:22:09.890 align:middle line:84% and they would not depart from it, for they were firm, 00:22:09.890 --> 00:22:14.110 align:middle line:84% and steadfast, and immovable, willing with all diligence 00:22:14.110 --> 00:22:17.520 align:middle line:84% to keep the commandments of the Lord." 00:22:17.520 --> 00:22:21.470 align:middle line:84% "Their minds are firm, and they do put their trust in God 00:22:21.470 --> 00:22:22.280 align:middle line:90% continually." 00:22:22.280 --> 00:22:26.100 align:middle line:84% "And behold, ye [yourselves know], 00:22:26.100 --> 00:22:30.040 align:middle line:84% for ye have witnessed it, that as many of them as are brought 00:22:30.040 --> 00:22:32.300 align:middle line:84% to the knowledge of the truth ... 00:22:32.300 --> 00:22:35.390 align:middle line:84% are firm and steadfast in the faith, and ... 00:22:35.390 --> 00:22:39.130 align:middle line:84% the thing wherewith they have been made free." 00:22:39.130 --> 00:22:42.660 align:middle line:84% "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine 00:22:42.660 --> 00:22:48.120 align:middle line:84% and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." 00:22:48.120 --> 00:22:52.840 align:middle line:84% To persevere firm and steadfast in the faith of Christ requires 00:22:52.840 --> 00:22:57.070 align:middle line:84% that the gospel of Jesus Christ penetrate one's heart and soul, 00:22:57.070 --> 00:23:01.580 align:middle line:84% meaning that the gospel becomes not just one of many influences 00:23:01.580 --> 00:23:06.640 align:middle line:84% in a person's life, but the defining focus of his or her 00:23:06.640 --> 00:23:08.620 align:middle line:90% life and character. 00:23:08.620 --> 00:23:10.320 align:middle line:90% The Lord says: 00:23:10.320 --> 00:23:12.190 align:middle line:84% "A new heart also will I give you, 00:23:12.190 --> 00:23:14.570 align:middle line:84% and a new spirit will I put within you: 00:23:14.570 --> 00:23:17.960 align:middle line:84% and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, 00:23:17.960 --> 00:23:20.720 align:middle line:84% and I will give you an heart of flesh. 00:23:20.720 --> 00:23:22.580 align:middle line:84% "And I will put my spirit within you, 00:23:22.580 --> 00:23:24.910 align:middle line:84% and cause you to walk in my statutes, 00:23:24.910 --> 00:23:28.110 align:middle line:84% and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. 00:23:28.110 --> 00:23:32.980 align:middle line:84% "And ... ye shall be my people, and I will be your God." 00:23:32.980 --> 00:23:36.070 align:middle line:84% This is the covenant we make by our baptism and in temple 00:23:36.070 --> 00:23:37.240 align:middle line:90% ordinances. 00:23:37.240 --> 00:23:41.370 align:middle line:84% But some have not yet fully received the gospel of Jesus 00:23:41.370 --> 00:23:43.450 align:middle line:90% Christ into their lives. 00:23:43.450 --> 00:23:47.410 align:middle line:84% Although, as Paul says, they were "buried with [Christ] 00:23:47.410 --> 00:23:51.950 align:middle line:84% by baptism," they are still missing the part that "like 00:23:51.950 --> 00:23:55.140 align:middle line:84% as Christ was raised up from the dead ..., even so we ... 00:23:55.140 --> 00:23:57.680 align:middle line:84% should walk in [a] newness of life." 00:23:57.680 --> 00:24:01.160 align:middle line:84% The gospel does not yet define them. 00:24:01.160 --> 00:24:04.300 align:middle line:84% They're not yet centered in Christ. 00:24:04.300 --> 00:24:07.440 align:middle line:84% They are selective about the doctrines and commandments they 00:24:07.440 --> 00:24:11.670 align:middle line:84% will follow and where and when they will serve in the Church. 00:24:11.670 --> 00:24:16.970 align:middle line:84% By contrast, it is in keeping their covenants with exactness 00:24:16.970 --> 00:24:20.470 align:middle line:84% that those "who are the elect according to the covenant" 00:24:20.470 --> 00:24:26.820 align:middle line:84% avoid deception and remain firm in the faith of Christ. 00:24:26.820 --> 00:24:30.630 align:middle line:84% Most of us find ourselves at this moment on a continuum 00:24:30.630 --> 00:24:35.780 align:middle line:84% between a socially motivated participation in gospel rituals 00:24:35.780 --> 00:24:39.360 align:middle line:84% on the one hand and a fully developed, 00:24:39.360 --> 00:24:43.210 align:middle line:84% Christlike commitment to the will of God on the other. 00:24:43.210 --> 00:24:47.670 align:middle line:84% Somewhere along that continuum, the good news of the gospel 00:24:47.670 --> 00:24:51.660 align:middle line:84% of Jesus Christ enters into our heart and takes possession 00:24:51.660 --> 00:24:52.940 align:middle line:90% of our soul. 00:24:52.940 --> 00:24:57.120 align:middle line:84% It may not happen in an instant, but we should all be moving 00:24:57.120 --> 00:24:59.640 align:middle line:90% toward that blessed state. 00:24:59.640 --> 00:25:05.640 align:middle line:84% It is challenging but vital to remain firm and steadfast when 00:25:05.640 --> 00:25:09.850 align:middle line:84% we find ourselves being refined "in the furnace of affliction," 00:25:09.850 --> 00:25:15.350 align:middle line:84% something that comes soon or late to all of us in mortality. 00:25:15.350 --> 00:25:19.060 align:middle line:84% Without God, these dark experiences tend 00:25:19.060 --> 00:25:22.310 align:middle line:84% to despondency, despair, and even bitterness. 00:25:22.310 --> 00:25:29.050 align:middle line:84% With God, comfort replaces pain, peace replaces turmoil, 00:25:29.050 --> 00:25:32.190 align:middle line:90% and hope replaces sorrow. 00:25:32.190 --> 00:25:36.600 align:middle line:84% Remaining firm in the faith of Christ will bring His 00:25:36.600 --> 00:25:40.960 align:middle line:84% sustaining grace and support; He will convert trial 00:25:40.960 --> 00:25:46.962 align:middle line:84% into blessing and, in Isaiah's words, give "beauty for ashes." 00:25:46.962 --> 00:25:51.380 align:middle line:84% May I mention three examples of which I have personal 00:25:51.380 --> 00:25:53.850 align:middle line:90% knowledge: 00:25:53.850 --> 00:25:57.090 align:middle line:84% There is a woman who suffers with a debilitating chronic 00:25:57.090 --> 00:26:00.740 align:middle line:84% illness that persists despite medical attention, 00:26:00.740 --> 00:26:03.970 align:middle line:84% priesthood blessings, and fasting and prayers. 00:26:03.970 --> 00:26:08.680 align:middle line:84% Nevertheless, her faith in the power of prayer and the reality 00:26:08.680 --> 00:26:11.820 align:middle line:84% of God's love for her is undiminished. 00:26:11.820 --> 00:26:16.060 align:middle line:84% She presses ahead day by day--sometimes hour 00:26:16.060 --> 00:26:20.650 align:middle line:84% by hour--serving as called in Church and, together with her 00:26:20.650 --> 00:26:23.880 align:middle line:84% husband, looking after her young family, 00:26:23.880 --> 00:26:26.560 align:middle line:90% smiling as much as she can. 00:26:26.560 --> 00:26:29.780 align:middle line:84% Her compassion for others runs deep, 00:26:29.780 --> 00:26:34.590 align:middle line:84% refined by her own suffering, and she often loses herself 00:26:34.590 --> 00:26:36.700 align:middle line:90% in ministering to others. 00:26:36.700 --> 00:26:41.040 align:middle line:84% She continues steadfast, and people feel happy being around 00:26:41.040 --> 00:26:43.160 align:middle line:90% her. 00:26:43.160 --> 00:26:46.100 align:middle line:84% A man who grew up in the Church, served as a full-time 00:26:46.100 --> 00:26:50.050 align:middle line:84% missionary, and married a lovely woman was surprised when some 00:26:50.050 --> 00:26:53.230 align:middle line:84% of his siblings began speaking critically of the Church 00:26:53.230 --> 00:26:55.280 align:middle line:90% and the Prophet Joseph Smith. 00:26:55.280 --> 00:26:58.660 align:middle line:84% After a time they left the Church and tried to persuade 00:26:58.660 --> 00:27:00.000 align:middle line:90% him to follow. 00:27:00.000 --> 00:27:04.340 align:middle line:84% As often happens in such cases, they bombarded him with essays, 00:27:04.340 --> 00:27:07.780 align:middle line:84% podcasts, and videos produced by critics, 00:27:07.780 --> 00:27:12.060 align:middle line:84% most of whom were themselves disaffected former members 00:27:12.060 --> 00:27:13.140 align:middle line:90% of the Church. 00:27:13.140 --> 00:27:17.090 align:middle line:84% His siblings mocked his faith, telling him he was gullible 00:27:17.090 --> 00:27:18.470 align:middle line:90% and misled. 00:27:18.470 --> 00:27:21.780 align:middle line:84% He didn't have answers for all their assertions, 00:27:21.780 --> 00:27:24.530 align:middle line:84% and his faith began to waver under the relentless 00:27:24.530 --> 00:27:25.650 align:middle line:90% opposition. 00:27:25.650 --> 00:27:28.680 align:middle line:84% He wondered if he should stop attending church. 00:27:28.680 --> 00:27:30.400 align:middle line:90% He talked with his wife. 00:27:30.400 --> 00:27:32.260 align:middle line:84% He talked with people he trusted. 00:27:32.260 --> 00:27:33.570 align:middle line:90% He prayed. 00:27:33.570 --> 00:27:36.850 align:middle line:84% As he meditated in this troubled state of mind, 00:27:36.850 --> 00:27:41.310 align:middle line:84% he recalled occasions when he had felt the Holy Spirit 00:27:41.310 --> 00:27:44.930 align:middle line:84% and had received a witness of the truth by the Spirit. 00:27:44.930 --> 00:27:49.260 align:middle line:84% He concluded, "If I am honest with myself, 00:27:49.260 --> 00:27:54.180 align:middle line:84% I must admit that the Spirit has touched me more than once 00:27:54.180 --> 00:27:57.470 align:middle line:84% and the testimony of the Spirit is real." 00:27:57.470 --> 00:28:00.910 align:middle line:84% He has a renewed sense of happiness and peace that is 00:28:00.910 --> 00:28:04.770 align:middle line:90% shared by his wife and children. 00:28:04.770 --> 00:28:07.650 align:middle line:84% A husband and wife who have consistently and happily 00:28:07.650 --> 00:28:10.410 align:middle line:84% followed the counsel of the Brethren in their lives were 00:28:10.410 --> 00:28:15.350 align:middle line:84% grieved by the difficulty they experienced in having children. 00:28:15.350 --> 00:28:20.130 align:middle line:84% They expended substantial funds working with competent medical 00:28:20.130 --> 00:28:25.970 align:middle line:84% professionals, and after a time, they were blessed with a son. 00:28:25.970 --> 00:28:29.600 align:middle line:84% Tragically, however, after only about a year, 00:28:29.600 --> 00:28:32.620 align:middle line:84% the baby was the victim of an accident that was no 00:28:32.620 --> 00:28:36.950 align:middle line:84% one's fault but that left him semicomatose with significant 00:28:36.950 --> 00:28:38.450 align:middle line:90% brain damage. 00:28:38.450 --> 00:28:40.700 align:middle line:84% He has received the best of care, 00:28:40.700 --> 00:28:44.830 align:middle line:84% but doctors cannot predict how things will unfold going 00:28:44.830 --> 00:28:46.040 align:middle line:90% forward. 00:28:46.040 --> 00:28:50.460 align:middle line:84% The child this couple worked and prayed so hard to bring 00:28:50.460 --> 00:28:54.310 align:middle line:84% into the world has in a sense been taken away, 00:28:54.310 --> 00:28:58.000 align:middle line:84% and they don't know if he will be returned to them. 00:28:58.000 --> 00:29:02.070 align:middle line:84% They struggle now to care for their baby's critical needs 00:29:02.070 --> 00:29:05.020 align:middle line:84% while meeting their other responsibilities. 00:29:05.020 --> 00:29:08.440 align:middle line:84% In this supremely difficult moment they have turned 00:29:08.440 --> 00:29:09.380 align:middle line:90% to the Lord. 00:29:09.380 --> 00:29:12.680 align:middle line:84% They rely on the "daily bread" they receive from Him. 00:29:12.680 --> 00:29:15.510 align:middle line:84% They are aided by compassionate friends and family 00:29:15.510 --> 00:29:18.630 align:middle line:84% and strengthened by priesthood blessings. 00:29:18.630 --> 00:29:21.240 align:middle line:84% They have drawn closer to one another, 00:29:21.240 --> 00:29:25.330 align:middle line:84% their union perhaps now deeper and more complete than might 00:29:25.330 --> 00:29:28.670 align:middle line:90% otherwise have been possible. 00:29:28.670 --> 00:29:32.740 align:middle line:84% On July 23, 1837, the Lord directed a revelation 00:29:32.740 --> 00:29:35.950 align:middle line:84% to the then-President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, 00:29:35.950 --> 00:29:37.220 align:middle line:90% Thomas B. Marsh. 00:29:37.220 --> 00:29:40.130 align:middle line:90% It included the following: 00:29:40.130 --> 00:29:42.110 align:middle line:84% "And pray for thy brethren of the Twelve. 00:29:42.110 --> 00:29:44.850 align:middle line:84% Admonish them sharply for my name's sake, 00:29:44.850 --> 00:29:47.770 align:middle line:84% and let them be admonished for all their sins, 00:29:47.770 --> 00:29:52.230 align:middle line:84% and be ye faithful before me unto my name. 00:29:52.230 --> 00:29:56.270 align:middle line:84% "And after their temptations, and much tribulation, behold, 00:29:56.270 --> 00:29:58.380 align:middle line:84% I, the Lord, will feel after them, 00:29:58.380 --> 00:30:00.430 align:middle line:84% and if they harden not their hearts, 00:30:00.430 --> 00:30:02.740 align:middle line:84% and stiffen not their necks against me, 00:30:02.740 --> 00:30:06.590 align:middle line:84% they shall be converted, and I will heal them." 00:30:06.590 --> 00:30:09.220 align:middle line:84% I believe the principles expressed in these verses apply 00:30:09.220 --> 00:30:10.330 align:middle line:90% to all of us. 00:30:10.330 --> 00:30:13.560 align:middle line:84% The temptations and tribulations we experience, 00:30:13.560 --> 00:30:17.110 align:middle line:84% plus any testing that the Lord sees fit to impose, 00:30:17.110 --> 00:30:20.140 align:middle line:84% can lead to our full conversion and healing. 00:30:20.140 --> 00:30:25.210 align:middle line:84% But this happens if, and only if, we do not harden our hearts 00:30:25.210 --> 00:30:27.570 align:middle line:84% or stiffen our necks against Him. 00:30:27.570 --> 00:30:32.220 align:middle line:84% If we remain firm and steadfast, come what may, 00:30:32.220 --> 00:30:36.430 align:middle line:84% we achieve the conversion the Savior intended when He said 00:30:36.430 --> 00:30:38.710 align:middle line:84% to Peter, "When thou art converted, 00:30:38.710 --> 00:30:43.310 align:middle line:84% strengthen thy brethren," a conversion so complete that it 00:30:43.310 --> 00:30:45.280 align:middle line:90% cannot be undone. 00:30:45.280 --> 00:30:49.440 align:middle line:84% The promised healing is the cleansing and sanctification 00:30:49.440 --> 00:30:54.070 align:middle line:84% of our sin-wounded souls, making us holy. 00:30:54.070 --> 00:30:56.970 align:middle line:90% 00:30:56.970 --> 00:31:01.230 align:middle line:84% I am reminded of our mothers' counsel: "Eat your vegetables; 00:31:01.230 --> 00:31:03.070 align:middle line:90% it will do you good." 00:31:03.070 --> 00:31:08.380 align:middle line:84% Our mothers are right, and in the context of steadfastness 00:31:08.380 --> 00:31:11.020 align:middle line:84% in the faith, "eating your vegetables" 00:31:11.020 --> 00:31:15.550 align:middle line:84% is to pray constantly, to feast on the scriptures daily, 00:31:15.550 --> 00:31:19.340 align:middle line:84% serve and worship in the Church, worthily take the sacrament 00:31:19.340 --> 00:31:22.900 align:middle line:84% each week, love your neighbor, and take up your cross 00:31:22.900 --> 00:31:26.890 align:middle line:90% in obedience to God each day. 00:31:26.890 --> 00:31:29.970 align:middle line:84% Always remember the promise of good things to come, 00:31:29.970 --> 00:31:34.340 align:middle line:84% both now and hereafter, for those who are firm 00:31:34.340 --> 00:31:37.830 align:middle line:84% and steadfast in the faith of Christ. 00:31:37.830 --> 00:31:42.310 align:middle line:84% Remember "eternal life, and the joy of the saints." 00:31:42.310 --> 00:31:45.260 align:middle line:84% "O all ye that are pure in heart, 00:31:45.260 --> 00:31:49.570 align:middle line:84% lift up your heads and receive the pleasing word of God, 00:31:49.570 --> 00:31:55.930 align:middle line:84% and feast upon his love; for ye may, if your minds are firm, 00:31:55.930 --> 00:31:57.490 align:middle line:90% forever." 00:31:57.490 --> 00:32:00.490 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:32:00.490 --> 00:32:10.040 align:middle line:90% 00:32:10.040 --> 00:32:13.560 align:middle line:84% In speaking of the President of The Church of Jesus Christ 00:32:13.560 --> 00:32:17.430 align:middle line:84% of Latter-day Saints, the Lord proclaimed: 00:32:17.430 --> 00:32:20.670 align:middle line:84% "And again, the duty of the President of the office 00:32:20.670 --> 00:32:24.880 align:middle line:84% of the High Priesthood is to preside over the whole church, 00:32:24.880 --> 00:32:26.521 align:middle line:90% and to be like unto Moses-- 00:32:26.521 --> 00:32:27.020 align:middle line:90% "... 00:32:27.020 --> 00:32:32.770 align:middle line:84% Yea, to be a seer, a revelator, a translator, and a prophet, 00:32:32.770 --> 00:32:36.500 align:middle line:84% having all the gifts of God which he bestows upon the head 00:32:36.500 --> 00:32:38.600 align:middle line:90% of the church." 00:32:38.600 --> 00:32:41.600 align:middle line:84% I have been blessed to witness some of the gifts of God upon 00:32:41.600 --> 00:32:42.840 align:middle line:90% His prophets. 00:32:42.840 --> 00:32:46.720 align:middle line:84% May I share one such sacred experience with you? 00:32:46.720 --> 00:32:51.470 align:middle line:84% Prior to my current calling, I assisted in the identification 00:32:51.470 --> 00:32:54.290 align:middle line:84% and recommending of future temple sites. 00:32:54.290 --> 00:32:59.350 align:middle line:84% After September 11, 2001, crossings along the U.S. 00:32:59.350 --> 00:33:01.530 align:middle line:90% borders became more controlled. 00:33:01.530 --> 00:33:05.370 align:middle line:84% As a result, it took two to three hours for many Church 00:33:05.370 --> 00:33:09.140 align:middle line:84% members to make the crossing from Vancouver, Canada, 00:33:09.140 --> 00:33:12.560 align:middle line:84% while going to the Seattle Washington Temple. 00:33:12.560 --> 00:33:16.210 align:middle line:84% President Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church at that 00:33:16.210 --> 00:33:20.650 align:middle line:84% time, suggested that a temple in Vancouver would bless members 00:33:20.650 --> 00:33:21.910 align:middle line:90% of the Church. 00:33:21.910 --> 00:33:26.540 align:middle line:84% A site search was authorized, and after we examined several 00:33:26.540 --> 00:33:30.520 align:middle line:84% Church-owned properties, other sites not owned by the Church 00:33:30.520 --> 00:33:32.830 align:middle line:90% were also investigated. 00:33:32.830 --> 00:33:36.070 align:middle line:84% A beautiful site with religious zoning adjacent 00:33:36.070 --> 00:33:38.910 align:middle line:84% to the Trans-Canadian Highway was found. 00:33:38.910 --> 00:33:41.560 align:middle line:84% The property had excellent access, 00:33:41.560 --> 00:33:44.810 align:middle line:84% was dotted with beautiful Canadian pine trees, 00:33:44.810 --> 00:33:48.590 align:middle line:84% and enjoyed a prominent location which would make it visible 00:33:48.590 --> 00:33:51.450 align:middle line:84% to thousands of passing motorists. 00:33:51.450 --> 00:33:54.360 align:middle line:84% We presented the site with pictures and maps 00:33:54.360 --> 00:33:57.240 align:middle line:84% in the monthly Temple Sites Committee meeting. 00:33:57.240 --> 00:34:01.070 align:middle line:84% President Hinckley authorized that we place it under contract 00:34:01.070 --> 00:34:03.920 align:middle line:84% and complete the necessary studies. 00:34:03.920 --> 00:34:07.750 align:middle line:84% In December of that year we reported back to the committee 00:34:07.750 --> 00:34:10.870 align:middle line:84% that the studies were complete, and we sought approval 00:34:10.870 --> 00:34:12.980 align:middle line:90% to proceed with the purchase. 00:34:12.980 --> 00:34:16.820 align:middle line:84% After hearing our report, President Hinckley said, 00:34:16.820 --> 00:34:20.620 align:middle line:90% "I feel I should see this site." 00:34:20.620 --> 00:34:23.090 align:middle line:84% Later that month, two days after Christmas, 00:34:23.090 --> 00:34:25.860 align:middle line:84% we left for Vancouver with President Hinckley, 00:34:25.860 --> 00:34:28.940 align:middle line:84% President Thomas S. Monson, and Bill Williams, 00:34:28.940 --> 00:34:30.429 align:middle line:90% a temple architect. 00:34:30.429 --> 00:34:34.110 align:middle line:84% We were met by Paul Christensen, the local stake president, 00:34:34.110 --> 00:34:36.690 align:middle line:90% who transported us to the site. 00:34:36.690 --> 00:34:39.460 align:middle line:84% It was a little wet and misty that day, 00:34:39.460 --> 00:34:42.219 align:middle line:84% but President Hinckley jumped out of the car and began 00:34:42.219 --> 00:34:45.030 align:middle line:90% walking all over the site. 00:34:45.030 --> 00:34:48.889 align:middle line:84% After spending time on the site, I asked President Hinckley 00:34:48.889 --> 00:34:52.170 align:middle line:84% if he would like to see some of the other sites that had been 00:34:52.170 --> 00:34:53.110 align:middle line:90% considered. 00:34:53.110 --> 00:34:55.320 align:middle line:90% He said yes, he would like that. 00:34:55.320 --> 00:34:58.320 align:middle line:84% You see, by looking at the other sites, 00:34:58.320 --> 00:35:02.530 align:middle line:84% we were able to make a comparison of their virtues. 00:35:02.530 --> 00:35:05.340 align:middle line:84% We did a large clockwise loop around Vancouver, 00:35:05.340 --> 00:35:09.020 align:middle line:84% looking at the other properties, ultimately arriving back 00:35:09.020 --> 00:35:10.600 align:middle line:90% at the original site. 00:35:10.600 --> 00:35:14.740 align:middle line:84% President Hinckley said, "This is a beautiful site." 00:35:14.740 --> 00:35:19.070 align:middle line:84% Then he asked, "Can we go to the Church-owned meetinghouse about 00:35:19.070 --> 00:35:21.310 align:middle line:90% one-quarter mile away?" 00:35:21.310 --> 00:35:23.790 align:middle line:84% "Of course, President," we responded. 00:35:23.790 --> 00:35:26.520 align:middle line:84% We got back into the cars and drove to the nearby 00:35:26.520 --> 00:35:27.740 align:middle line:90% meetinghouse. 00:35:27.740 --> 00:35:31.390 align:middle line:84% As we arrived at the chapel, President Hinckley said, 00:35:31.390 --> 00:35:33.090 align:middle line:90% "Turn left here." 00:35:33.090 --> 00:35:36.430 align:middle line:84% We turned and followed the street as instructed. 00:35:36.430 --> 00:35:39.470 align:middle line:84% The street began to rise slightly. 00:35:39.470 --> 00:35:42.200 align:middle line:84% Just as the car reached the crown of the rise, 00:35:42.200 --> 00:35:47.360 align:middle line:84% President Hinckley said, "Stop the car; stop the car." 00:35:47.360 --> 00:35:51.540 align:middle line:84% He then pointed to the right at a parcel of ground and said, 00:35:51.540 --> 00:35:53.560 align:middle line:90% "What about this property? 00:35:53.560 --> 00:35:56.010 align:middle line:90% This is where the temple goes. 00:35:56.010 --> 00:35:58.760 align:middle line:84% This is where the Lord wants the temple. 00:35:58.760 --> 00:36:00.970 align:middle line:90% Can you get it? 00:36:00.970 --> 00:36:02.660 align:middle line:90% Can you get it?" 00:36:02.660 --> 00:36:04.480 align:middle line:84% We hadn't looked at this property. 00:36:04.480 --> 00:36:07.330 align:middle line:84% It was farther back and away from the main road, 00:36:07.330 --> 00:36:09.530 align:middle line:90% and it was not listed for sale. 00:36:09.530 --> 00:36:11.790 align:middle line:84% When we responded we didn't know, 00:36:11.790 --> 00:36:15.200 align:middle line:84% President Hinckley pointed to the property and said again, 00:36:15.200 --> 00:36:17.800 align:middle line:90% "This is where the temple goes." 00:36:17.800 --> 00:36:21.150 align:middle line:84% We stayed a few minutes, then left for the airport to return 00:36:21.150 --> 00:36:22.370 align:middle line:90% home. 00:36:22.370 --> 00:36:25.020 align:middle line:84% The next day Brother Williams and I were called to President 00:36:25.020 --> 00:36:26.280 align:middle line:90% Hinckley's office. 00:36:26.280 --> 00:36:30.240 align:middle line:84% He had drawn out everything on a piece of paper: the roads, 00:36:30.240 --> 00:36:34.320 align:middle line:84% the chapel, turn left here, x marks the spot for the temple. 00:36:34.320 --> 00:36:37.000 align:middle line:90% 00:36:37.000 --> 00:36:39.160 align:middle line:90% He asked what we had found out. 00:36:39.160 --> 00:36:42.720 align:middle line:84% We told him he couldn't have picked a more difficult 00:36:42.720 --> 00:36:44.040 align:middle line:90% property. 00:36:44.040 --> 00:36:48.510 align:middle line:84% It was owned by three individuals: one from Canada, 00:36:48.510 --> 00:36:51.790 align:middle line:84% one from India, and one from China! 00:36:51.790 --> 00:36:56.960 align:middle line:84% And it didn't have the necessary religious zoning. 00:36:56.960 --> 00:36:58.930 align:middle line:90% "Well, do your best," he said. 00:36:58.930 --> 00:37:01.970 align:middle line:90% 00:37:01.970 --> 00:37:04.110 align:middle line:90% Then the miracles happened. 00:37:04.110 --> 00:37:07.140 align:middle line:84% Within several months we owned the property, 00:37:07.140 --> 00:37:10.200 align:middle line:84% and later the city of Langley, British Columbia, 00:37:10.200 --> 00:37:13.650 align:middle line:84% gave permission to build the temple. 00:37:13.650 --> 00:37:16.010 align:middle line:84% In reflecting upon this experience, 00:37:16.010 --> 00:37:19.800 align:middle line:84% I am humbled by the realization that while Brother Williams 00:37:19.800 --> 00:37:24.240 align:middle line:84% and I possessed formal education and years of experience in real 00:37:24.240 --> 00:37:27.950 align:middle line:84% estate and temple design, President Hinckley had no such 00:37:27.950 --> 00:37:32.430 align:middle line:84% formal training, but he had something far greater--the gift 00:37:32.430 --> 00:37:34.250 align:middle line:90% of prophetic seership. 00:37:34.250 --> 00:37:40.040 align:middle line:84% He was able to envision where God's temple should stand. 00:37:40.040 --> 00:37:42.410 align:middle line:84% When the Lord commanded the early Saints in this 00:37:42.410 --> 00:37:46.800 align:middle line:84% dispensation to construct a temple, He declared: 00:37:46.800 --> 00:37:49.630 align:middle line:84% "But let a house be built unto my name according 00:37:49.630 --> 00:37:53.330 align:middle line:84% to the pattern which I will show unto them. 00:37:53.330 --> 00:37:56.140 align:middle line:84% "And if my people build it not according to the pattern which 00:37:56.140 --> 00:38:01.770 align:middle line:84% I shall show ..., I will not accept it at their hands." 00:38:01.770 --> 00:38:05.830 align:middle line:84% And as with the early Saints, so it is with us today: 00:38:05.830 --> 00:38:08.840 align:middle line:84% the Lord has revealed and continues to reveal 00:38:08.840 --> 00:38:12.280 align:middle line:84% to the President of the Church the patterns by which 00:38:12.280 --> 00:38:16.240 align:middle line:84% the kingdom of God is to be directed in our day. 00:38:16.240 --> 00:38:20.770 align:middle line:84% And, at a personal level, he provides guidance as to how 00:38:20.770 --> 00:38:23.530 align:middle line:84% each of us should direct our lives, 00:38:23.530 --> 00:38:27.070 align:middle line:84% such that our conduct may likewise be acceptable 00:38:27.070 --> 00:38:28.870 align:middle line:90% to the Lord. 00:38:28.870 --> 00:38:33.670 align:middle line:84% In April 2013, I spoke about the efforts involved in preparing 00:38:33.670 --> 00:38:37.500 align:middle line:84% every temple's foundation to ensure that it can withstand 00:38:37.500 --> 00:38:40.730 align:middle line:84% the storms and calamities to which it will be subjected. 00:38:40.730 --> 00:38:43.430 align:middle line:84% But the foundation is just the beginning. 00:38:43.430 --> 00:38:46.310 align:middle line:84% A temple is composed of many building blocks, 00:38:46.310 --> 00:38:50.010 align:middle line:84% fitted together according to predesigned patterns. 00:38:50.010 --> 00:38:54.290 align:middle line:84% If our lives are to become the temples each of us is striving 00:38:54.290 --> 00:38:57.240 align:middle line:84% to construct as taught by the Lord, 00:38:57.240 --> 00:39:00.050 align:middle line:84% we could reasonably ask ourselves, 00:39:00.050 --> 00:39:03.990 align:middle line:84% "What building blocks should we put in place in order to make 00:39:03.990 --> 00:39:08.030 align:middle line:84% our lives beautiful, majestic, and resistant to the storms 00:39:08.030 --> 00:39:09.790 align:middle line:90% of the world?" 00:39:09.790 --> 00:39:13.070 align:middle line:84% We can find the answer to this question in the Book of Mormon. 00:39:13.070 --> 00:39:16.610 align:middle line:84% Concerning the Book of Mormon, the Prophet Joseph Smith said, 00:39:16.610 --> 00:39:20.070 align:middle line:84% "I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most 00:39:20.070 --> 00:39:23.100 align:middle line:84% correct of any book on earth, and the keystone 00:39:23.100 --> 00:39:27.040 align:middle line:84% of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding 00:39:27.040 --> 00:39:30.620 align:middle line:84% by its precepts, than by any other book." 00:39:30.620 --> 00:39:34.470 align:middle line:84% In the introduction to the Book of Mormon we are taught that 00:39:34.470 --> 00:39:38.110 align:middle line:84% those who gain a divine witness from the Holy Spirit that 00:39:38.110 --> 00:39:42.010 align:middle line:84% the Book of Mormon is the word of God will also come to know 00:39:42.010 --> 00:39:45.720 align:middle line:84% by the same power that Jesus Christ is the Savior 00:39:45.720 --> 00:39:49.950 align:middle line:84% of the world, that Joseph Smith is His revelator and prophet 00:39:49.950 --> 00:39:53.440 align:middle line:84% of the Restoration, and that The Church of Jesus Christ 00:39:53.440 --> 00:39:56.760 align:middle line:84% of Latter-day Saints is the Lord's kingdom once again 00:39:56.760 --> 00:39:59.250 align:middle line:90% established on the earth. 00:39:59.250 --> 00:40:01.680 align:middle line:84% These, then, are some essential building blocks 00:40:01.680 --> 00:40:04.280 align:middle line:84% of our individual faith and testimony: 00:40:04.280 --> 00:40:07.470 align:middle line:84% Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. 00:40:07.470 --> 00:40:10.570 align:middle line:84% The Book of Mormon is the word of God. 00:40:10.570 --> 00:40:14.070 align:middle line:84% The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is 00:40:14.070 --> 00:40:16.360 align:middle line:90% the kingdom of God on the earth. 00:40:16.360 --> 00:40:20.200 align:middle line:84% And Joseph Smith is a prophet, and we have living prophets 00:40:20.200 --> 00:40:23.130 align:middle line:90% on the earth today. 00:40:23.130 --> 00:40:26.320 align:middle line:84% In recent months I have listened to every general conference 00:40:26.320 --> 00:40:30.110 align:middle line:84% address which President Nelson has given since he was first 00:40:30.110 --> 00:40:31.750 align:middle line:90% called as an Apostle. 00:40:31.750 --> 00:40:35.220 align:middle line:84% This exercise has changed my life. 00:40:35.220 --> 00:40:39.640 align:middle line:84% As I studied and pondered 34 years of President 00:40:39.640 --> 00:40:44.390 align:middle line:84% Nelson's collected wisdom, clear and consistent themes emerged 00:40:44.390 --> 00:40:45.930 align:middle line:90% from his teachings. 00:40:45.930 --> 00:40:49.610 align:middle line:84% Each of these themes relates to those building blocks just 00:40:49.610 --> 00:40:53.360 align:middle line:84% mentioned or is another key building block for our personal 00:40:53.360 --> 00:40:54.390 align:middle line:90% temples. 00:40:54.390 --> 00:40:59.200 align:middle line:84% They include faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, 00:40:59.200 --> 00:41:01.880 align:middle line:84% baptism for the remission of sins, 00:41:01.880 --> 00:41:05.740 align:middle line:84% the gift of the Holy Ghost, redemption of the dead, 00:41:05.740 --> 00:41:09.390 align:middle line:84% temple work, keeping the Sabbath day holy, 00:41:09.390 --> 00:41:14.090 align:middle line:84% beginning with the end in mind, staying on the covenant path. 00:41:14.090 --> 00:41:17.850 align:middle line:84% President Nelson has spoken of them all with love 00:41:17.850 --> 00:41:19.870 align:middle line:90% and devotion. 00:41:19.870 --> 00:41:22.770 align:middle line:84% The chief cornerstone and building block of the Church 00:41:22.770 --> 00:41:26.160 align:middle line:84% and for our lives is Jesus Christ. 00:41:26.160 --> 00:41:28.130 align:middle line:90% This is His Church. 00:41:28.130 --> 00:41:30.920 align:middle line:90% President Nelson is His prophet. 00:41:30.920 --> 00:41:34.210 align:middle line:84% President Nelson's teachings witness and reveal 00:41:34.210 --> 00:41:41.740 align:middle line:84% for our benefit the life and character of Jesus Christ. 00:41:41.740 --> 00:41:45.610 align:middle line:84% He speaks lovingly and knowingly of the Savior's nature 00:41:45.610 --> 00:41:47.020 align:middle line:90% and of His mission. 00:41:47.020 --> 00:41:51.690 align:middle line:84% He has also borne frequent and fervent testimony of the divine 00:41:51.690 --> 00:41:54.580 align:middle line:84% calling of the living prophets--the Presidents 00:41:54.580 --> 00:41:57.520 align:middle line:84% of the Church--under whom he has served. 00:41:57.520 --> 00:42:01.720 align:middle line:84% Now, today, it is our privilege to sustain him 00:42:01.720 --> 00:42:04.660 align:middle line:84% as the Lord's living prophet on the earth. 00:42:04.660 --> 00:42:07.530 align:middle line:84% We are accustomed to sustaining Church leaders through 00:42:07.530 --> 00:42:11.030 align:middle line:84% the divine pattern of raising our arms to the square 00:42:11.030 --> 00:42:13.760 align:middle line:84% to manifest our acceptance and support. 00:42:13.760 --> 00:42:16.530 align:middle line:84% We did this just a few minutes ago. 00:42:16.530 --> 00:42:20.950 align:middle line:84% But true sustaining goes well beyond this physical token. 00:42:20.950 --> 00:42:24.630 align:middle line:84% As noted in the Doctrine and Covenants, section 107, 00:42:24.630 --> 00:42:28.780 align:middle line:84% the First Presidency is to be "upheld by the confidence, 00:42:28.780 --> 00:42:31.890 align:middle line:84% faith, and prayer of the church." 00:42:31.890 --> 00:42:36.100 align:middle line:84% We come to fully and truly sustain the living prophet 00:42:36.100 --> 00:42:40.060 align:middle line:84% as we develop the pattern of confiding in his words, 00:42:40.060 --> 00:42:42.750 align:middle line:84% having the faith to act upon them, 00:42:42.750 --> 00:42:47.650 align:middle line:84% and then praying for the Lord's continued blessings upon him. 00:42:47.650 --> 00:42:49.840 align:middle line:84% When I think of President Russell M. Nelson, 00:42:49.840 --> 00:42:53.990 align:middle line:84% I take comfort in the words of the Savior when He said, 00:42:53.990 --> 00:42:57.910 align:middle line:84% "And if my people will hearken unto my voice, 00:42:57.910 --> 00:43:01.550 align:middle line:84% and unto the voice of my servants whom I have appointed 00:43:01.550 --> 00:43:05.930 align:middle line:84% to lead my people, behold, verily I say unto you, 00:43:05.930 --> 00:43:09.960 align:middle line:84% they shall not be moved out of their place." 00:43:09.960 --> 00:43:13.710 align:middle line:84% Listening to and hearkening to living prophets will have 00:43:13.710 --> 00:43:17.800 align:middle line:84% profound, even life-changing effects in our lives. 00:43:17.800 --> 00:43:19.430 align:middle line:90% We are strengthened. 00:43:19.430 --> 00:43:22.360 align:middle line:84% We are more assured and confident in the Lord. 00:43:22.360 --> 00:43:24.920 align:middle line:90% We hear the word of the Lord. 00:43:24.920 --> 00:43:26.900 align:middle line:90% We feel God's love. 00:43:26.900 --> 00:43:31.300 align:middle line:84% We will know how to conduct our lives with purpose. 00:43:31.300 --> 00:43:33.460 align:middle line:84% I love and sustain President Russell M. 00:43:33.460 --> 00:43:37.840 align:middle line:84% Nelson and the others who have been called as prophets, seers, 00:43:37.840 --> 00:43:39.160 align:middle line:90% and revelators. 00:43:39.160 --> 00:43:44.060 align:middle line:84% I testify that he has the gifts the Lord has bestowed upon his 00:43:44.060 --> 00:43:48.810 align:middle line:84% head, and I witness that as we solidify in our lives 00:43:48.810 --> 00:43:52.990 align:middle line:84% the practice of listening to and heeding the voice of the living 00:43:52.990 --> 00:43:56.080 align:middle line:84% prophets, our lives will be built according 00:43:56.080 --> 00:44:00.610 align:middle line:84% to the Lord's divine pattern for us and we will reap eternal 00:44:00.610 --> 00:44:01.760 align:middle line:90% blessings. 00:44:01.760 --> 00:44:05.090 align:middle line:84% The invitation is extended to all. 00:44:05.090 --> 00:44:09.570 align:middle line:84% Come, listen to a prophet's voice; yea, 00:44:09.570 --> 00:44:11.910 align:middle line:90% come unto Christ and live. 00:44:11.910 --> 00:44:14.880 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:44:14.880 --> 00:44:26.590 align:middle line:90% 00:44:26.590 --> 00:44:29.040 align:middle line:84% Good afternoon, my dear brothers and sisters. 00:44:29.040 --> 00:44:33.240 align:middle line:84% As we say in my native Brazilian Portuguese, "Boa tarde!" 00:44:33.240 --> 00:44:36.710 align:middle line:84% I feel blessed to gather together in this wonderful 00:44:36.710 --> 00:44:40.330 align:middle line:84% general conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 00:44:40.330 --> 00:44:43.860 align:middle line:84% Saints under the direction of our beloved prophet, 00:44:43.860 --> 00:44:45.890 align:middle line:90% President Russell M. Nelson. 00:44:45.890 --> 00:44:50.020 align:middle line:84% I marvel at the great opportunity each one of us has 00:44:50.020 --> 00:44:54.070 align:middle line:84% to listen to the Lord's voice through His servants on earth 00:44:54.070 --> 00:44:58.230 align:middle line:84% in these latter days we are living in. 00:44:58.230 --> 00:45:02.580 align:middle line:84% My home country of Brazil is very rich in natural resources. 00:45:02.580 --> 00:45:05.770 align:middle line:84% One of them is the famous Amazon River, 00:45:05.770 --> 00:45:09.720 align:middle line:84% one of the largest and longest rivers in the world. 00:45:09.720 --> 00:45:14.890 align:middle line:84% It is formed by two separate rivers, the Solimoes and Negro. 00:45:14.890 --> 00:45:18.980 align:middle line:84% Interestingly, they flow together for a number of miles 00:45:18.980 --> 00:45:22.800 align:middle line:84% before the waters blend, due to the rivers having very 00:45:22.800 --> 00:45:25.630 align:middle line:84% different origins, speeds, temperatures, 00:45:25.630 --> 00:45:27.560 align:middle line:90% and chemical compositions. 00:45:27.560 --> 00:45:31.660 align:middle line:84% After several miles, the waters finally blend together, 00:45:31.660 --> 00:45:35.780 align:middle line:84% becoming a river different than its individual parts. 00:45:35.780 --> 00:45:39.720 align:middle line:84% Only after these parts merge, the Amazon River becomes 00:45:39.720 --> 00:45:43.810 align:middle line:84% so powerful that when it reaches the Atlantic Ocean, 00:45:43.810 --> 00:45:48.400 align:middle line:84% it pushes back the seawater so that fresh water can still be 00:45:48.400 --> 00:45:52.950 align:middle line:84% found for many miles out into the ocean. 00:45:52.950 --> 00:45:56.480 align:middle line:84% In a similar way that the Solimoes and Negro Rivers flow 00:45:56.480 --> 00:45:59.800 align:middle line:84% together to make the great Amazon River, 00:45:59.800 --> 00:46:03.520 align:middle line:84% the children of God come together in the restored Church 00:46:03.520 --> 00:46:07.920 align:middle line:84% of Jesus Christ from different social backgrounds, traditions, 00:46:07.920 --> 00:46:11.880 align:middle line:84% and cultures, forming this wonderful community of Saints 00:46:11.880 --> 00:46:12.990 align:middle line:90% in Christ. 00:46:12.990 --> 00:46:17.440 align:middle line:84% Eventually, as we encourage, support, and love each other, 00:46:17.440 --> 00:46:21.510 align:middle line:84% we combine to form a mighty force for good in the world. 00:46:21.510 --> 00:46:26.120 align:middle line:84% As followers of Jesus Christ, flowing as one in this river 00:46:26.120 --> 00:46:30.090 align:middle line:84% of goodness, we will be able to provide the "fresh water" 00:46:30.090 --> 00:46:33.620 align:middle line:84% of the gospel to a thirsty world. 00:46:33.620 --> 00:46:37.370 align:middle line:84% The Lord has inspired His prophets to teach us how we can 00:46:37.370 --> 00:46:41.860 align:middle line:84% support and love each other so we can become united in faith 00:46:41.860 --> 00:46:44.890 align:middle line:84% and purpose in following Jesus Christ. 00:46:44.890 --> 00:46:49.840 align:middle line:84% Paul, the New Testament Apostle, taught that those who "have 00:46:49.840 --> 00:46:53.610 align:middle line:84% been baptized into Christ have put on Christ ... 00:46:53.610 --> 00:46:57.400 align:middle line:84% for ye are all one in Christ Jesus." 00:46:57.400 --> 00:47:00.800 align:middle line:84% When we promise at baptism to follow the Savior, 00:47:00.800 --> 00:47:04.150 align:middle line:84% we witness before the Father that we are willing to take 00:47:04.150 --> 00:47:06.300 align:middle line:90% upon us the name of Christ. 00:47:06.300 --> 00:47:10.850 align:middle line:84% And as we strive to acquire His divine attributes in our lives, 00:47:10.850 --> 00:47:15.570 align:middle line:84% we become different than we were through the Atonement of Christ 00:47:15.570 --> 00:47:19.760 align:middle line:84% the Lord, and our love for all people increases naturally. 00:47:19.760 --> 00:47:23.390 align:middle line:84% We feel a sincere concern for everyone's welfare 00:47:23.390 --> 00:47:24.520 align:middle line:90% and happiness. 00:47:24.520 --> 00:47:27.260 align:middle line:84% We see each other as brothers and sisters, 00:47:27.260 --> 00:47:30.970 align:middle line:84% as children of God with divine origin, attributes, 00:47:30.970 --> 00:47:32.100 align:middle line:90% and potential. 00:47:32.100 --> 00:47:37.580 align:middle line:84% We desire to care for each other and bear one another's burdens. 00:47:37.580 --> 00:47:40.110 align:middle line:84% This is what Paul described as charity. 00:47:40.110 --> 00:47:42.820 align:middle line:84% Mormon, a prophet of the Book of Mormon, 00:47:42.820 --> 00:47:45.920 align:middle line:84% described it as "the pure love of Christ," 00:47:45.920 --> 00:47:48.600 align:middle line:84% which is the most sublime, noblest, 00:47:48.600 --> 00:47:50.680 align:middle line:90% and strongest form of love. 00:47:50.680 --> 00:47:54.120 align:middle line:84% And our current prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, 00:47:54.120 --> 00:47:57.550 align:middle line:84% recently described a manifestation of this pure love 00:47:57.550 --> 00:48:02.690 align:middle line:84% of Christ as ministering, which is a more focused and holier 00:48:02.690 --> 00:48:06.140 align:middle line:84% approach to love and care for other individuals like 00:48:06.140 --> 00:48:07.980 align:middle line:90% the Savior did. 00:48:07.980 --> 00:48:12.060 align:middle line:84% Let us consider this principle of love and care as the Savior 00:48:12.060 --> 00:48:16.210 align:middle line:84% did within the context of encouraging, helping, 00:48:16.210 --> 00:48:19.820 align:middle line:84% and supporting those who are recent converts and those 00:48:19.820 --> 00:48:25.420 align:middle line:84% beginning to show interest in attending our Church services. 00:48:25.420 --> 00:48:28.710 align:middle line:84% When these new friends come out of the world and embrace 00:48:28.710 --> 00:48:32.520 align:middle line:84% the gospel of Jesus Christ, joining His Church, 00:48:32.520 --> 00:48:37.400 align:middle line:84% they become His disciples, being born again through Him. 00:48:37.400 --> 00:48:41.290 align:middle line:84% They leave behind a world they knew well and choose to follow 00:48:41.290 --> 00:48:46.590 align:middle line:84% Jesus Christ with full purpose of heart, joining a new "river" 00:48:46.590 --> 00:48:52.160 align:middle line:84% like the mighty Amazon River--a river that is a valiant force 00:48:52.160 --> 00:48:56.110 align:middle line:84% of goodness and righteousness that flows toward the presence 00:48:56.110 --> 00:48:57.060 align:middle line:90% of God. 00:48:57.060 --> 00:49:01.380 align:middle line:84% The Apostle Peter describes it as a "chosen generation, 00:49:01.380 --> 00:49:05.850 align:middle line:84% a royal priesthood, [a] holy nation, a peculiar people." 00:49:05.850 --> 00:49:12.040 align:middle line:84% As these new friends merge into this new and unfamiliar river, 00:49:12.040 --> 00:49:15.350 align:middle line:84% they may feel a little lost at first. 00:49:15.350 --> 00:49:18.360 align:middle line:84% These new friends find themselves blending 00:49:18.360 --> 00:49:21.730 align:middle line:84% into a river with unique origins, temperatures, 00:49:21.730 --> 00:49:27.020 align:middle line:84% and chemical compositions--a river that has its own 00:49:27.020 --> 00:49:29.820 align:middle line:84% traditions, culture, and vocabulary. 00:49:29.820 --> 00:49:34.140 align:middle line:84% This new life in Christ may seem overwhelming for them. 00:49:34.140 --> 00:49:37.950 align:middle line:84% Think for a moment about how they may feel as they hear 00:49:37.950 --> 00:49:44.640 align:middle line:84% for the first time such expressions as "FHE," "BYC," 00:49:44.640 --> 00:49:49.330 align:middle line:84% "fast Sunday," "baptism for the dead," "triple combination," 00:49:49.330 --> 00:49:51.280 align:middle line:90% and so forth. 00:49:51.280 --> 00:49:55.850 align:middle line:84% It is easy to see why they may feel like they don't belong. 00:49:55.850 --> 00:49:59.180 align:middle line:84% In such situations, they may ask themselves, 00:49:59.180 --> 00:50:01.520 align:middle line:90% "Is there a place for me here? 00:50:01.520 --> 00:50:06.850 align:middle line:84% Do I fit in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? 00:50:06.850 --> 00:50:08.800 align:middle line:90% Does the Church need me? 00:50:08.800 --> 00:50:13.680 align:middle line:84% Will I find new friends willing to help and support me?" 00:50:13.680 --> 00:50:16.330 align:middle line:84% My dear friends, in such moments, 00:50:16.330 --> 00:50:20.580 align:middle line:84% those of us who are at different points in the long journey 00:50:20.580 --> 00:50:25.610 align:middle line:84% of discipleship must extend a warm hand of fellowship 00:50:25.610 --> 00:50:30.820 align:middle line:84% to our new friends, accept them where they are, and help, love, 00:50:30.820 --> 00:50:33.910 align:middle line:90% and include them in our lives. 00:50:33.910 --> 00:50:37.620 align:middle line:84% All of these new friends are precious sons and daughters 00:50:37.620 --> 00:50:38.440 align:middle line:90% of God. 00:50:38.440 --> 00:50:41.760 align:middle line:84% We cannot afford to lose even one of them, 00:50:41.760 --> 00:50:45.720 align:middle line:84% because like the Amazon River that depends on tributaries 00:50:45.720 --> 00:50:50.770 align:middle line:84% feeding it, we need them just as much as they need us, 00:50:50.770 --> 00:50:54.530 align:middle line:84% to become a mighty force for good in the world. 00:50:54.530 --> 00:50:58.410 align:middle line:84% Our new friends bring God-given talents, excitement, 00:50:58.410 --> 00:51:00.430 align:middle line:90% and goodness within them. 00:51:00.430 --> 00:51:04.140 align:middle line:84% Their enthusiasm for the gospel can be contagious, 00:51:04.140 --> 00:51:08.140 align:middle line:84% thereby helping us revitalize our own testimonies. 00:51:08.140 --> 00:51:10.610 align:middle line:84% They also bring fresh perspectives 00:51:10.610 --> 00:51:13.940 align:middle line:84% to our understanding of life and the gospel. 00:51:13.940 --> 00:51:18.650 align:middle line:84% We have long been taught how we can help our new friends 00:51:18.650 --> 00:51:22.190 align:middle line:84% to feel welcome and loved in the restored Church of Jesus 00:51:22.190 --> 00:51:23.140 align:middle line:90% Christ. 00:51:23.140 --> 00:51:27.720 align:middle line:84% They need three things so they may remain strong and faithful 00:51:27.720 --> 00:51:29.500 align:middle line:90% throughout their lives. 00:51:29.500 --> 00:51:33.760 align:middle line:84% First, they need brothers and sisters in the Church who are 00:51:33.760 --> 00:51:39.010 align:middle line:84% sincerely interested in them, true and loyal friends to whom 00:51:39.010 --> 00:51:42.910 align:middle line:84% they can constantly turn, who will walk beside them, 00:51:42.910 --> 00:51:45.470 align:middle line:84% and who will answer their questions. 00:51:45.470 --> 00:51:50.650 align:middle line:84% As members, we should always be attentive and look for new 00:51:50.650 --> 00:51:54.390 align:middle line:84% faces when attending Church activities and meetings, 00:51:54.390 --> 00:51:58.010 align:middle line:84% regardless of the responsibilities, assignments, 00:51:58.010 --> 00:52:00.020 align:middle line:90% or concerns we may have. 00:52:00.020 --> 00:52:04.210 align:middle line:84% We can do simple things to help these new friends feel embraced 00:52:04.210 --> 00:52:08.640 align:middle line:84% and welcome in the Church, such as giving a warm greeting, 00:52:08.640 --> 00:52:12.900 align:middle line:84% smiling sincerely at them, sitting together to sing 00:52:12.900 --> 00:52:17.320 align:middle line:84% and worship, introducing them to other members, and so forth. 00:52:17.320 --> 00:52:23.280 align:middle line:84% As we open our hearts to our new friends in some of these ways, 00:52:23.280 --> 00:52:26.360 align:middle line:84% we are acting in the spirit of ministering. 00:52:26.360 --> 00:52:29.950 align:middle line:84% When we minister to them like the Savior did, 00:52:29.950 --> 00:52:33.650 align:middle line:84% they won't feel like "strangers within our gates." 00:52:33.650 --> 00:52:38.150 align:middle line:84% They will feel like they can fit in and make new friends, 00:52:38.150 --> 00:52:42.710 align:middle line:84% and most importantly, they will feel the Savior's love through 00:52:42.710 --> 00:52:44.900 align:middle line:90% our genuine care. 00:52:44.900 --> 00:52:48.960 align:middle line:84% Second, new friends need an assignment--an opportunity 00:52:48.960 --> 00:52:50.430 align:middle line:90% to serve others. 00:52:50.430 --> 00:52:54.580 align:middle line:84% Service is one of the great geniuses of The Church of Jesus 00:52:54.580 --> 00:52:56.260 align:middle line:90% Christ of Latter-day Saints. 00:52:56.260 --> 00:53:00.110 align:middle line:84% It is a process by which our faith can grow stronger. 00:53:00.110 --> 00:53:03.510 align:middle line:84% Every new friend deserves that opportunity. 00:53:03.510 --> 00:53:06.570 align:middle line:84% While the bishop and ward council have direct 00:53:06.570 --> 00:53:10.580 align:middle line:84% responsibility to extend assignments soon after 00:53:10.580 --> 00:53:15.270 align:middle line:84% their baptism, nothing prevents us as members from inviting 00:53:15.270 --> 00:53:19.900 align:middle line:84% our new friends to help us serve others informally or through 00:53:19.900 --> 00:53:22.100 align:middle line:90% service projects. 00:53:22.100 --> 00:53:25.630 align:middle line:84% Third, new friends must be "nourished by the good word 00:53:25.630 --> 00:53:26.440 align:middle line:90% of God." 00:53:26.440 --> 00:53:29.800 align:middle line:84% We can help them to love and become familiar with 00:53:29.800 --> 00:53:33.380 align:middle line:84% the scriptures as we read and discuss the teachings with 00:53:33.380 --> 00:53:38.090 align:middle line:84% them, providing them context to the stories and explaining 00:53:38.090 --> 00:53:39.490 align:middle line:90% difficult words. 00:53:39.490 --> 00:53:43.490 align:middle line:84% We can also teach them how to receive personal guidance 00:53:43.490 --> 00:53:45.860 align:middle line:90% through regular scripture study. 00:53:45.860 --> 00:53:50.030 align:middle line:84% In addition, we can reach out to our new friends in their own 00:53:50.030 --> 00:53:55.310 align:middle line:84% homes and invite them to ours at times outside of our regularly 00:53:55.310 --> 00:53:58.320 align:middle line:84% scheduled Church meetings and activities, 00:53:58.320 --> 00:54:02.690 align:middle line:84% helping them merge into the mighty river of the community 00:54:02.690 --> 00:54:04.420 align:middle line:90% of Saints. 00:54:04.420 --> 00:54:08.770 align:middle line:84% Recognizing the adjustments and challenges our new friends make 00:54:08.770 --> 00:54:13.310 align:middle line:84% in becoming members of God's family as brothers and sisters, 00:54:13.310 --> 00:54:18.070 align:middle line:84% we can share how we have overcome similar challenges 00:54:18.070 --> 00:54:19.290 align:middle line:90% in our lives. 00:54:19.290 --> 00:54:24.600 align:middle line:84% This will help them know that they are not alone and that God 00:54:24.600 --> 00:54:29.490 align:middle line:84% will bless them as they exercise faith in His promises. 00:54:29.490 --> 00:54:32.550 align:middle line:84% When the Solimoes and Negro Rivers blend together, 00:54:32.550 --> 00:54:36.040 align:middle line:84% the Amazon River becomes mighty and strong. 00:54:36.040 --> 00:54:40.230 align:middle line:84% In a similar fashion, when we and our new friends truly 00:54:40.230 --> 00:54:44.860 align:middle line:84% merge, the restored Church of Jesus Christ becomes even 00:54:44.860 --> 00:54:46.620 align:middle line:90% stronger and steadier. 00:54:46.620 --> 00:54:56.530 align:middle line:84% My sweetheart, Rosana, and I are so grateful for all those who 00:54:56.530 --> 00:55:01.440 align:middle line:84% helped us to blend into this new river many years ago when we 00:55:01.440 --> 00:55:04.630 align:middle line:84% embraced the gospel of Jesus Christ in our home country 00:55:04.630 --> 00:55:05.650 align:middle line:90% of Brazil. 00:55:05.650 --> 00:55:09.750 align:middle line:84% Throughout the years, these wonderful people have truly 00:55:09.750 --> 00:55:14.100 align:middle line:84% ministered to us and have helped us to continue flowing 00:55:14.100 --> 00:55:15.280 align:middle line:90% in righteousness. 00:55:15.280 --> 00:55:17.740 align:middle line:90% We are so grateful for them. 00:55:17.740 --> 00:55:21.380 align:middle line:84% The prophets in the Western Hemisphere knew well how 00:55:21.380 --> 00:55:27.560 align:middle line:84% to keep new friends flowing faithfully together into this 00:55:27.560 --> 00:55:30.330 align:middle line:84% new river of goodness toward eternal life. 00:55:30.330 --> 00:55:34.760 align:middle line:84% For example, having seen our day and knowing that we would face 00:55:34.760 --> 00:55:38.510 align:middle line:84% similar challenges, Moroni included some of those 00:55:38.510 --> 00:55:42.300 align:middle line:84% important steps in his writings in the Book of Mormon, 00:55:42.300 --> 00:55:44.270 align:middle line:90% and I quote: 00:55:44.270 --> 00:55:47.450 align:middle line:84% "And after they had been received unto baptism, 00:55:47.450 --> 00:55:50.660 align:middle line:84% and were wrought upon and cleansed by the power 00:55:50.660 --> 00:55:54.430 align:middle line:84% of the Holy Ghost, they were numbered among the people 00:55:54.430 --> 00:55:57.740 align:middle line:84% of the church of Christ; and their names were taken, 00:55:57.740 --> 00:56:01.330 align:middle line:84% that they might be remembered and nourished by the good word 00:56:01.330 --> 00:56:04.190 align:middle line:84% of God, to keep them in the right way, 00:56:04.190 --> 00:56:07.590 align:middle line:84% to keep them continually watchful unto prayer, 00:56:07.590 --> 00:56:10.890 align:middle line:84% relying alone upon the merits of Christ, 00:56:10.890 --> 00:56:15.020 align:middle line:84% who was the author and the finisher of their faith. 00:56:15.020 --> 00:56:17.690 align:middle line:84% "And the church did meet together oft, 00:56:17.690 --> 00:56:22.390 align:middle line:84% to fast and to pray, and to speak one with another 00:56:22.390 --> 00:56:26.610 align:middle line:84% concerning the welfare of their souls." 00:56:26.610 --> 00:56:29.660 align:middle line:84% My beloved companions in the work of the Lord, 00:56:29.660 --> 00:56:33.800 align:middle line:84% I believe we can do much better and should do better 00:56:33.800 --> 00:56:36.530 align:middle line:84% in welcoming new friends into the Church. 00:56:36.530 --> 00:56:40.780 align:middle line:84% I invite you to consider what we can do to be more embracing, 00:56:40.780 --> 00:56:46.390 align:middle line:84% accepting, and helpful to them, starting this next very Sunday. 00:56:46.390 --> 00:56:50.050 align:middle line:84% Be careful to not let your Church assignments get 00:56:50.050 --> 00:56:53.930 align:middle line:84% in the way of welcoming new friends at Church meetings 00:56:53.930 --> 00:56:55.140 align:middle line:90% and activities. 00:56:55.140 --> 00:56:59.800 align:middle line:84% After all, these souls are precious before the eyes of God 00:56:59.800 --> 00:57:03.650 align:middle line:84% and are much more important than programs and activities. 00:57:03.650 --> 00:57:08.530 align:middle line:84% If we minister to our new members with our hearts full 00:57:08.530 --> 00:57:13.280 align:middle line:84% of the pure love of the Savior as He did, I promise you, 00:57:13.280 --> 00:57:17.470 align:middle line:84% in His name, that He will assist us in our efforts. 00:57:17.470 --> 00:57:22.010 align:middle line:84% When we act as faithful ministers as the Savior did, 00:57:22.010 --> 00:57:25.280 align:middle line:84% our new friends will have the help they need to remain 00:57:25.280 --> 00:57:29.480 align:middle line:84% strong, dedicated, and faithful to the end. 00:57:29.480 --> 00:57:35.170 align:middle line:84% They will join us as we become a mighty people of God and will 00:57:35.170 --> 00:57:40.040 align:middle line:84% help us to bring fresh water to a world desperately in need 00:57:40.040 --> 00:57:42.770 align:middle line:84% of the blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ. 00:57:42.770 --> 00:57:46.060 align:middle line:84% These children of God will feel like they are "no more 00:57:46.060 --> 00:57:49.910 align:middle line:84% strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with 00:57:49.910 --> 00:57:50.870 align:middle line:90% the saints." 00:57:50.870 --> 00:57:55.550 align:middle line:84% I promise you that they will recognize the presence 00:57:55.550 --> 00:57:58.810 align:middle line:84% of our Savior Jesus Christ in His own Church. 00:57:58.810 --> 00:58:03.070 align:middle line:84% They will continue to flow with us as a river into the fountain 00:58:03.070 --> 00:58:07.930 align:middle line:84% of goodness until they are received with open arms 00:58:07.930 --> 00:58:12.100 align:middle line:84% by our Lord Jesus Christ and they hear the Father say, 00:58:12.100 --> 00:58:15.280 align:middle line:90% "Ye shall have eternal life." 00:58:15.280 --> 00:58:19.760 align:middle line:84% I invite you to seek the Lord's help in loving others as He has 00:58:19.760 --> 00:58:20.870 align:middle line:90% loved you. 00:58:20.870 --> 00:58:27.080 align:middle line:84% Let us all follow the counsel of Mormon: "Wherefore, 00:58:27.080 --> 00:58:29.400 align:middle line:84% my beloved brethren [and sisters], 00:58:29.400 --> 00:58:33.640 align:middle line:84% pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, 00:58:33.640 --> 00:58:36.270 align:middle line:84% that ye may be filled with this love, 00:58:36.270 --> 00:58:41.610 align:middle line:84% which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his 00:58:41.610 --> 00:58:43.260 align:middle line:90% Son, Jesus Christ." 00:58:43.260 --> 00:58:49.380 align:middle line:84% Of these truths I witness and do so in the name of Jesus Christ, 00:58:49.380 --> 00:58:49.880 align:middle line:90% amen. 00:58:49.880 --> 00:59:01.210 align:middle line:90% 00:59:01.210 --> 00:59:05.230 align:middle line:84% The congregation will now join the choir in singing "Called 00:59:05.230 --> 00:59:06.480 align:middle line:90% to Serve." 00:59:06.480 --> 00:59:10.100 align:middle line:84% After the singing, we will hear from Elder Gerrit W. 00:59:10.100 --> 00:59:13.070 align:middle line:84% Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 00:59:13.070 --> 00:59:17.285 align:middle line:84% He will be followed by Elder Paul B. Pieper of the Seventy. 00:59:17.285 --> 00:59:30.670 align:middle line:90% 00:59:30.670 --> 00:59:35.520 align:middle line:84% This is the 188th Semiannual General Conference of The 00:59:35.520 --> 00:59:37.940 align:middle line:84% Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 00:59:37.940 --> 01:02:11.641 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "CALLED TO SERVE"] 01:02:11.641 --> 01:02:25.130 align:middle line:90% 01:02:25.130 --> 01:02:29.740 align:middle line:84% Dear brothers and sisters, isn't it marvelous to continue 01:02:29.740 --> 01:02:35.330 align:middle line:84% receiving revelation from heaven through President Russell M. 01:02:35.330 --> 01:02:39.880 align:middle line:84% Nelson and our Church leaders that invites us to live in new 01:02:39.880 --> 01:02:44.850 align:middle line:84% and holier ways, at home and at church, with all our heart, 01:02:44.850 --> 01:02:47.920 align:middle line:90% mind, and strength? 01:02:47.920 --> 01:02:51.340 align:middle line:84% Have you ever had opportunity to do something for which you felt 01:02:51.340 --> 01:02:56.490 align:middle line:84% unprepared or inadequate but were blessed for trying? 01:02:56.490 --> 01:02:56.990 align:middle line:90% I have. 01:02:56.990 --> 01:02:59.140 align:middle line:90% Here's one example. 01:02:59.140 --> 01:03:01.374 align:middle line:84% Some years ago, Elder Richard G. Scott, 01:03:01.374 --> 01:03:03.290 align:middle line:84% a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, 01:03:03.290 --> 01:03:08.610 align:middle line:84% kindly invited, "Gerrit, would you like to watercolor with 01:03:08.610 --> 01:03:11.400 align:middle line:90% me?" 01:03:11.400 --> 01:03:14.640 align:middle line:84% Elder Scott said painting helped him observe and create. 01:03:14.640 --> 01:03:18.120 align:middle line:84% He has written: "Attempt to be creative, 01:03:18.120 --> 01:03:19.881 align:middle line:90% even if the results are modest. 01:03:19.881 --> 01:03:20.380 align:middle line:90% ... 01:03:20.380 --> 01:03:24.190 align:middle line:84% Creativity can engender a spirit of gratitude for life 01:03:24.190 --> 01:03:27.680 align:middle line:84% and for what the Lord has woven into your being. ... 01:03:27.680 --> 01:03:33.980 align:middle line:84% If you choose wisely, it doesn't have to absorb a lot of time." 01:03:33.980 --> 01:03:37.070 align:middle line:84% President Henry B. Eyring describes his artistic 01:03:37.070 --> 01:03:41.260 align:middle line:84% meditations as motivated by "a feeling of love," 01:03:41.260 --> 01:03:46.380 align:middle line:84% including "the love of a Creator who expects His children 01:03:46.380 --> 01:03:52.240 align:middle line:84% to become like Him--to create and to build." 01:03:52.240 --> 01:03:54.930 align:middle line:84% President Eyring's creative works provide a "unique, 01:03:54.930 --> 01:03:59.950 align:middle line:84% spiritual perspective on testimony and faith." 01:03:59.950 --> 01:04:03.020 align:middle line:84% President Boyd K. Packer's artwork illustrates 01:04:03.020 --> 01:04:06.840 align:middle line:84% a fundamental gospel message: "God is the Creator 01:04:06.840 --> 01:04:10.740 align:middle line:84% of the heavens and the earth and all things that are in them, 01:04:10.740 --> 01:04:14.390 align:middle line:84% that all nature bears testimony of that divinely directed 01:04:14.390 --> 01:04:18.260 align:middle line:84% creation, and that there is [a] complete harmony between 01:04:18.260 --> 01:04:23.530 align:middle line:84% nature, science, and the gospel of Jesus Christ." 01:04:23.530 --> 01:04:27.850 align:middle line:84% Alma testifies, "All things denote there is a God." 01:04:27.850 --> 01:04:32.590 align:middle line:84% Our Primary children sing, "Whenever I hear the song 01:04:32.590 --> 01:04:36.340 align:middle line:84% of a bird or look at the blue, blue sky, ... 01:04:36.340 --> 01:04:40.930 align:middle line:84% I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world Heav'nly Father 01:04:40.930 --> 01:04:42.580 align:middle line:90% created for me." 01:04:42.580 --> 01:04:48.030 align:middle line:84% Author Victor Hugo celebrates the "miraculous relationships 01:04:48.030 --> 01:04:51.800 align:middle line:84% between beings and things; in this inexhaustible whole, 01:04:51.800 --> 01:04:53.820 align:middle line:90% from sun to aphid. ... 01:04:53.820 --> 01:04:57.210 align:middle line:84% All the birds that fly hold the thread of eternity 01:04:57.210 --> 01:04:58.231 align:middle line:90% in their claws. 01:04:58.231 --> 01:04:58.730 align:middle line:90% ... 01:04:58.730 --> 01:05:02.250 align:middle line:84% A nebula is an anthill of stars." 01:05:02.250 --> 01:05:07.200 align:middle line:84% And that brings us back to Elder Scott's invitation. 01:05:07.200 --> 01:05:10.350 align:middle line:84% "Elder Scott," I replied, "I would like to become more 01:05:10.350 --> 01:05:11.970 align:middle line:90% observant and creative. 01:05:11.970 --> 01:05:15.670 align:middle line:84% I thrill to imagine Heavenly Father paints with billowing 01:05:15.670 --> 01:05:19.470 align:middle line:84% clouds and every hue of sky and water. 01:05:19.470 --> 01:05:22.530 align:middle line:90% But"--here was a long pause-- 01:05:22.530 --> 01:05:26.170 align:middle line:84% "Elder Scott," I said, "I have no skill to watercolor. 01:05:26.170 --> 01:05:30.530 align:middle line:84% I worry it may frustrate you to try and teach me." 01:05:30.530 --> 01:05:33.190 align:middle line:84% Elder Scott smiled and arranged for us to meet. 01:05:33.190 --> 01:05:36.350 align:middle line:84% On the appointed day, he prepared paper, paints, 01:05:36.350 --> 01:05:37.310 align:middle line:90% and brushes. 01:05:37.310 --> 01:05:41.440 align:middle line:84% He sketched some outlines and helped wet the paper for me. 01:05:41.440 --> 01:05:46.390 align:middle line:84% We used as a model his beautiful watercolor titled Campfire 01:05:46.390 --> 01:05:48.140 align:middle line:90% at Sunset. 01:05:48.140 --> 01:05:53.850 align:middle line:84% As we painted, we talked about faith--how as we face the light 01:05:53.850 --> 01:05:57.210 align:middle line:84% and warmth of a campfire, we leave the darkness 01:05:57.210 --> 01:06:01.140 align:middle line:84% and uncertainty behind us--how on sometimes long, 01:06:01.140 --> 01:06:05.140 align:middle line:84% lonely nights, our campfire of faith can give hope 01:06:05.140 --> 01:06:06.840 align:middle line:90% and assurance. 01:06:06.840 --> 01:06:08.840 align:middle line:90% And the dawn does come. 01:06:08.840 --> 01:06:13.240 align:middle line:84% Our campfire of faith--our memories, experiences, 01:06:13.240 --> 01:06:17.210 align:middle line:84% and heritage of faith in God's goodness and tender mercies 01:06:17.210 --> 01:06:22.150 align:middle line:84% in our life--has strengthened us through the night. 01:06:22.150 --> 01:06:27.270 align:middle line:84% My testimony is, for those who seek, allow, live for it, 01:06:27.270 --> 01:06:30.110 align:middle line:84% the dawn of faith, sometimes gradually, 01:06:30.110 --> 01:06:33.230 align:middle line:90% will come or can return. 01:06:33.230 --> 01:06:36.850 align:middle line:84% The light will come when we desire and seek it, 01:06:36.850 --> 01:06:40.430 align:middle line:84% when we are patient and obedient to God's commands, 01:06:40.430 --> 01:06:46.490 align:middle line:84% when we are open to God's grace, healing, and covenants. 01:06:46.490 --> 01:06:49.610 align:middle line:84% As we began painting, Elder Scott encouraged, "Gerrit, 01:06:49.610 --> 01:06:54.180 align:middle line:84% even with one lesson you will paint something you will want 01:06:54.180 --> 01:06:56.070 align:middle line:90% to keep and remember." 01:06:56.070 --> 01:06:57.840 align:middle line:90% Elder Scott was right. 01:06:57.840 --> 01:07:02.260 align:middle line:84% I treasure the watercolor of our campfire of faith Elder Scott 01:07:02.260 --> 01:07:03.380 align:middle line:90% helped me paint. 01:07:03.380 --> 01:07:07.360 align:middle line:84% My artistic ability was and remains limited, 01:07:07.360 --> 01:07:11.230 align:middle line:84% but the remembrance of our campfire of faith can encourage 01:07:11.230 --> 01:07:13.610 align:middle line:90% us in five ways. 01:07:13.610 --> 01:07:18.870 align:middle line:84% First, our campfire of faith can encourage us to find joy 01:07:18.870 --> 01:07:21.930 align:middle line:90% in wholesome creativity. 01:07:21.930 --> 01:07:24.070 align:middle line:84% There is joy in imagining, learning, 01:07:24.070 --> 01:07:26.810 align:middle line:90% doing worthwhile new things. 01:07:26.810 --> 01:07:29.940 align:middle line:84% This is especially true as we deepen faith and trust 01:07:29.940 --> 01:07:33.350 align:middle line:84% in Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. 01:07:33.350 --> 01:07:36.890 align:middle line:84% We cannot love ourselves enough to save ourselves. 01:07:36.890 --> 01:07:41.350 align:middle line:84% But Heavenly Father loves us more and knows us better than 01:07:41.350 --> 01:07:43.490 align:middle line:90% we love or know ourselves. 01:07:43.490 --> 01:07:49.390 align:middle line:84% We can trust the Lord and lean not unto our own understanding. 01:07:49.390 --> 01:07:51.630 align:middle line:84% Have you ever been the only one not invited 01:07:51.630 --> 01:07:54.270 align:middle line:90% to someone's birthday party? 01:07:54.270 --> 01:07:57.120 align:middle line:84% Have you ever been chosen last, or not chosen, 01:07:57.120 --> 01:07:59.450 align:middle line:90% when teams were selected? 01:07:59.450 --> 01:08:02.410 align:middle line:84% Have you prepared for a school test, a job interview, 01:08:02.410 --> 01:08:05.960 align:middle line:84% an opportunity you really wanted--and you felt you 01:08:05.960 --> 01:08:07.640 align:middle line:90% failed? 01:08:07.640 --> 01:08:09.510 align:middle line:84% Have you prayed for a relationship that, 01:08:09.510 --> 01:08:13.660 align:middle line:84% for whatever reason, has not worked out? 01:08:13.660 --> 01:08:18.600 align:middle line:84% Have you faced chronic illness, been abandoned by a spouse, 01:08:18.600 --> 01:08:22.020 align:middle line:90% agonized for family? 01:08:22.020 --> 01:08:25.140 align:middle line:84% Our Savior knows our circumstances. 01:08:25.140 --> 01:08:30.779 align:middle line:84% As we exercise God-given agency and engage all our faculties 01:08:30.779 --> 01:08:35.160 align:middle line:84% in humility and faith, our Savior Jesus Christ can help us 01:08:35.160 --> 01:08:38.510 align:middle line:90% meet life's challenges and joys. 01:08:38.510 --> 01:08:42.170 align:middle line:84% Faith includes a desire and choice to believe. 01:08:42.170 --> 01:08:45.649 align:middle line:84% Faith also comes from obeying God's commandments, 01:08:45.649 --> 01:08:50.620 align:middle line:84% given to bless us, as we follow His covenant path. 01:08:50.620 --> 01:08:54.080 align:middle line:84% When we have felt, or feel, uncertain, alone, frustrated, 01:08:54.080 --> 01:08:58.430 align:middle line:84% angry, let down, disappointed, or estranged from God and His 01:08:58.430 --> 01:09:03.120 align:middle line:84% restored Church, it may take an extra measure of effort 01:09:03.120 --> 01:09:06.290 align:middle line:84% and faith to enter again on His covenant path. 01:09:06.290 --> 01:09:08.800 align:middle line:90% But it is worth it! 01:09:08.800 --> 01:09:14.210 align:middle line:84% Please come, or come again, unto the Lord Jesus Christ! 01:09:14.210 --> 01:09:17.830 align:middle line:84% God's love is stronger than the cords of death--temporal 01:09:17.830 --> 01:09:19.180 align:middle line:90% or spiritual. 01:09:19.180 --> 01:09:23.609 align:middle line:84% Our Savior's Atonement is infinite and eternal. 01:09:23.609 --> 01:09:26.310 align:middle line:84% Each of us strays and falls short. 01:09:26.310 --> 01:09:29.149 align:middle line:84% We may, for a time, lose our way. 01:09:29.149 --> 01:09:34.640 align:middle line:84% God lovingly assures us, no matter where we are or what we 01:09:34.640 --> 01:09:38.430 align:middle line:84% have done, there is no point of no return. 01:09:38.430 --> 01:09:41.960 align:middle line:90% He waits ready to embrace us. 01:09:41.960 --> 01:09:46.490 align:middle line:84% Second, our campfire of faith can encourage us to minister 01:09:46.490 --> 01:09:50.500 align:middle line:84% in new, higher, and holier Spirit-filled ways. 01:09:50.500 --> 01:09:53.250 align:middle line:84% Such brings miracles and the blessings of covenant 01:09:53.250 --> 01:09:56.610 align:middle line:84% belonging--where we feel God's love and seek to minister 01:09:56.610 --> 01:09:59.580 align:middle line:90% to others in that spirit. 01:09:59.580 --> 01:10:03.720 align:middle line:84% Not long ago, Sister Gong and I became acquainted with a father 01:10:03.720 --> 01:10:08.040 align:middle line:84% and family blessed by a faithful priesthood brother who came 01:10:08.040 --> 01:10:11.550 align:middle line:84% to their bishop and asked if he (the priesthood brother) could 01:10:11.550 --> 01:10:14.390 align:middle line:84% be a home teaching companion with the father. 01:10:14.390 --> 01:10:18.310 align:middle line:84% The father was not active and not interested in home 01:10:18.310 --> 01:10:19.250 align:middle line:90% teaching. 01:10:19.250 --> 01:10:21.950 align:middle line:84% But as the father's heart changed, 01:10:21.950 --> 01:10:25.440 align:middle line:84% he and this loving priesthood brother began visiting 01:10:25.440 --> 01:10:27.200 align:middle line:90% "their" families. 01:10:27.200 --> 01:10:31.180 align:middle line:84% After one such visit, his wife--herself not then 01:10:31.180 --> 01:10:35.050 align:middle line:84% attending Church--asked her husband how things had gone. 01:10:35.050 --> 01:10:39.064 align:middle line:84% The father admitted, "I may have felt something"--and then he 01:10:39.064 --> 01:10:40.480 align:middle line:84% went to the kitchen to get a beer. 01:10:40.480 --> 01:10:43.890 align:middle line:90% 01:10:43.890 --> 01:10:47.330 align:middle line:84% But one thing followed another: tender experiences, 01:10:47.330 --> 01:10:49.310 align:middle line:84% ministering service, changing hearts, 01:10:49.310 --> 01:10:52.150 align:middle line:84% temple preparation class, coming to Church, 01:10:52.150 --> 01:10:55.130 align:middle line:84% being sealed as a family in the holy temple. 01:10:55.130 --> 01:10:59.730 align:middle line:84% Imagine how grateful the children and grandchildren are 01:10:59.730 --> 01:11:03.890 align:middle line:84% to their father and mother and to the ministering brother who 01:11:03.890 --> 01:11:07.400 align:middle line:84% came as a friend and companion with their father to minister 01:11:07.400 --> 01:11:11.360 align:middle line:90% and love others. 01:11:11.360 --> 01:11:14.120 align:middle line:84% A third campfire of faith encouragement: 01:11:14.120 --> 01:11:18.780 align:middle line:84% gospel joy and blessings come when we seek to love the Lord 01:11:18.780 --> 01:11:23.330 align:middle line:84% and others with all our hearts and souls. 01:11:23.330 --> 01:11:27.260 align:middle line:84% The scriptures invite us to place all we are and are 01:11:27.260 --> 01:11:30.800 align:middle line:84% becoming on the altar of love and service. 01:11:30.800 --> 01:11:33.870 align:middle line:84% In the Old Testament, Deuteronomy enjoins us to "love 01:11:33.870 --> 01:11:37.750 align:middle line:84% the Lord thy God" with all our heart, soul, and might. 01:11:37.750 --> 01:11:41.310 align:middle line:84% Joshua exhorts, "Love the Lord your God, ... 01:11:41.310 --> 01:11:44.280 align:middle line:84% walk in all his ways, ... keep his commandments, ... 01:11:44.280 --> 01:11:47.680 align:middle line:84% cleave unto him, and ... serve him with all your heart 01:11:47.680 --> 01:11:50.540 align:middle line:90% and with all your soul." 01:11:50.540 --> 01:11:52.950 align:middle line:84% In the New Testament, our Savior states the two great 01:11:52.950 --> 01:11:56.770 align:middle line:84% commandments: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy 01:11:56.770 --> 01:12:00.980 align:middle line:84% heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, ... 01:12:00.980 --> 01:12:03.760 align:middle line:90% and thy neighbour as thyself." 01:12:03.760 --> 01:12:06.770 align:middle line:84% In the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ, 01:12:06.770 --> 01:12:10.770 align:middle line:84% King Benjamin labored "with all the might of his body 01:12:10.770 --> 01:12:13.490 align:middle line:84% and the faculty of his whole soul" 01:12:13.490 --> 01:12:16.100 align:middle line:84% and established peace in the land. 01:12:16.100 --> 01:12:19.730 align:middle line:84% In the Doctrine and Covenants, as every missionary knows, 01:12:19.730 --> 01:12:23.650 align:middle line:84% the Lord asks us to serve Him with all our "heart, might, 01:12:23.650 --> 01:12:25.250 align:middle line:90% mind and strength." 01:12:25.250 --> 01:12:27.500 align:middle line:84% When the Saints entered Jackson County, 01:12:27.500 --> 01:12:31.410 align:middle line:84% the Lord commanded them to keep the Sabbath holy by loving 01:12:31.410 --> 01:12:33.730 align:middle line:84% "the Lord thy God with all thy heart, 01:12:33.730 --> 01:12:36.640 align:middle line:84% [and] with all thy might, mind, and strength; 01:12:36.640 --> 01:12:41.790 align:middle line:84% and in the name of Jesus Christ thou shalt serve him." 01:12:41.790 --> 01:12:46.260 align:middle line:84% We rejoice in the invitation to devote our whole souls 01:12:46.260 --> 01:12:50.320 align:middle line:84% to seeking higher and holier ways to love God and those 01:12:50.320 --> 01:12:53.650 align:middle line:84% around us and to strengthen our faith in Heavenly Father 01:12:53.650 --> 01:12:59.990 align:middle line:84% and Jesus Christ in our hearts and in our homes and at Church. 01:12:59.990 --> 01:13:04.340 align:middle line:84% Fourth, our campfire of faith encourages us to establish 01:13:04.340 --> 01:13:08.260 align:middle line:84% regular patterns of righteous living that deepen faith 01:13:08.260 --> 01:13:10.260 align:middle line:90% and spirituality. 01:13:10.260 --> 01:13:12.590 align:middle line:84% These holy habits, righteous routines, 01:13:12.590 --> 01:13:15.210 align:middle line:84% or prayerful patterns may include prayer; 01:13:15.210 --> 01:13:18.730 align:middle line:84% scripture study; fasting; remembering our Savior 01:13:18.730 --> 01:13:21.530 align:middle line:84% and covenants through the ordinance of the sacrament; 01:13:21.530 --> 01:13:24.060 align:middle line:84% sharing gospel blessings through missionary, 01:13:24.060 --> 01:13:27.230 align:middle line:84% temple and family history, and other service; 01:13:27.230 --> 01:13:31.400 align:middle line:84% keeping a thoughtful personal journal; and so on. 01:13:31.400 --> 01:13:35.380 align:middle line:84% When righteous patterns and spiritual yearnings join, 01:13:35.380 --> 01:13:38.490 align:middle line:90% time and eternity come together. 01:13:38.490 --> 01:13:42.310 align:middle line:84% Spiritual light and life come when regular religious 01:13:42.310 --> 01:13:45.440 align:middle line:84% observance draws us closer to our Heavenly Father 01:13:45.440 --> 01:13:47.580 align:middle line:90% and our Savior, Jesus Christ. 01:13:47.580 --> 01:13:50.760 align:middle line:84% When we love the spirit and letter of the law, 01:13:50.760 --> 01:13:54.290 align:middle line:84% the things of eternity can distill upon our souls like 01:13:54.290 --> 01:13:55.760 align:middle line:90% the dews from heaven. 01:13:55.760 --> 01:14:00.500 align:middle line:84% With daily obedience and refreshing living water, 01:14:00.500 --> 01:14:03.840 align:middle line:84% we find answers, faith, and strength to meet everyday 01:14:03.840 --> 01:14:07.220 align:middle line:84% challenges and opportunities with gospel patience, 01:14:07.220 --> 01:14:10.030 align:middle line:90% perspective, and joy. 01:14:10.030 --> 01:14:14.770 align:middle line:84% Fifth, as we keep the best of familiar patterns while seeking 01:14:14.770 --> 01:14:19.250 align:middle line:84% new and holier ways to love God and help us and others prepare 01:14:19.250 --> 01:14:23.240 align:middle line:84% to meet Him, our campfire of faith can encourage us 01:14:23.240 --> 01:14:26.260 align:middle line:84% to remember perfection is in Christ, 01:14:26.260 --> 01:14:30.660 align:middle line:84% not in ourselves or in the perfectionism of the world. 01:14:30.660 --> 01:14:34.010 align:middle line:84% God's invitations are full of love and possibility 01:14:34.010 --> 01:14:39.380 align:middle line:84% because Jesus Christ is "the way, the truth, and the life." 01:14:39.380 --> 01:14:43.720 align:middle line:84% To those who feel burdened, He invites, "Come unto me," 01:14:43.720 --> 01:14:46.990 align:middle line:84% and to those who come to Him, He promises, 01:14:46.990 --> 01:14:49.290 align:middle line:90% "I will give you rest." 01:14:49.290 --> 01:14:52.520 align:middle line:84% "Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, ... 01:14:52.520 --> 01:14:55.990 align:middle line:84% love God with all your might, mind and strength, 01:14:55.990 --> 01:14:58.960 align:middle line:84% then is his grace sufficient for you, 01:14:58.960 --> 01:15:03.810 align:middle line:84% that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ." 01:15:03.810 --> 01:15:08.450 align:middle line:84% In this assurance, "by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ" 01:15:08.450 --> 01:15:13.520 align:middle line:84% is also the comfort, peace, and promise we can continue forward 01:15:13.520 --> 01:15:15.900 align:middle line:84% with faith and confidence in the Lord, 01:15:15.900 --> 01:15:20.100 align:middle line:84% even when things do not go as we hope, expect, 01:15:20.100 --> 01:15:23.770 align:middle line:84% or perhaps deserve, through no fault of our own, 01:15:23.770 --> 01:15:26.880 align:middle line:84% even after we have done our best. 01:15:26.880 --> 01:15:30.570 align:middle line:84% In various times and ways, we all feel inadequate, uncertain, 01:15:30.570 --> 01:15:32.300 align:middle line:90% perhaps unworthy. 01:15:32.300 --> 01:15:36.590 align:middle line:84% Yet in our faithful efforts to love God and to minister 01:15:36.590 --> 01:15:40.620 align:middle line:84% to our neighbor, we may feel God's love and needed 01:15:40.620 --> 01:15:47.520 align:middle line:84% inspiration for their and our lives in new and holier ways. 01:15:47.520 --> 01:15:52.120 align:middle line:84% With compassion, our Savior encourages and promises we can 01:15:52.120 --> 01:15:54.960 align:middle line:84% "press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, 01:15:54.960 --> 01:15:57.240 align:middle line:84% having a perfect brightness of hope, 01:15:57.240 --> 01:16:00.280 align:middle line:84% and a love of God and of all men." 01:16:00.280 --> 01:16:03.590 align:middle line:84% The doctrine of Christ, our Savior's Atonement, 01:16:03.590 --> 01:16:08.170 align:middle line:84% and our whole-souled following of His covenant path can help 01:16:08.170 --> 01:16:13.270 align:middle line:84% us know His truths and make us free. 01:16:13.270 --> 01:16:17.100 align:middle line:84% I testify the fulness of His gospel and His plan 01:16:17.100 --> 01:16:21.620 align:middle line:84% of happiness are restored and taught in The Church of Jesus 01:16:21.620 --> 01:16:25.200 align:middle line:84% Christ of Latter-day Saints, in holy scripture, 01:16:25.200 --> 01:16:29.510 align:middle line:84% and by prophets from the Prophet Joseph Smith to President 01:16:29.510 --> 01:16:31.600 align:middle line:90% Russell M. Nelson today. 01:16:31.600 --> 01:16:36.480 align:middle line:84% I testify His covenant path leads to the greatest gift 01:16:36.480 --> 01:16:38.800 align:middle line:84% our loving Heavenly Father promises: 01:16:38.800 --> 01:16:42.830 align:middle line:90% "Ye shall have eternal life." 01:16:42.830 --> 01:16:47.540 align:middle line:84% May His blessings and enduring joy be ours as we warm 01:16:47.540 --> 01:16:52.820 align:middle line:84% our hearts and hopes and commitment at our campfire 01:16:52.820 --> 01:16:58.090 align:middle line:84% of faith, I pray in the sacred and holy name of Jesus Christ, 01:16:58.090 --> 01:16:58.590 align:middle line:90% amen. 01:16:58.590 --> 01:17:07.840 align:middle line:90% 01:17:07.840 --> 01:17:11.780 align:middle line:84% A few weeks ago I took part in the baptism of several 01:17:11.780 --> 01:17:13.420 align:middle line:90% eight-year-old children. 01:17:13.420 --> 01:17:16.770 align:middle line:84% They had begun to learn the gospel of Jesus Christ from 01:17:16.770 --> 01:17:18.740 align:middle line:90% their parents and teachers. 01:17:18.740 --> 01:17:22.090 align:middle line:84% The seed of their faith in Him had begun to grow. 01:17:22.090 --> 01:17:26.460 align:middle line:84% And now they wanted to follow Him into the waters of baptism 01:17:26.460 --> 01:17:29.800 align:middle line:84% to become members of His restored Church. 01:17:29.800 --> 01:17:33.670 align:middle line:84% As I watched their anticipation, I wondered how much they 01:17:33.670 --> 01:17:37.440 align:middle line:84% understood about one important aspect of their baptismal 01:17:37.440 --> 01:17:42.240 align:middle line:84% covenant: their commitment to take upon themselves the name 01:17:42.240 --> 01:17:44.980 align:middle line:90% of Jesus Christ. 01:17:44.980 --> 01:17:48.100 align:middle line:84% From the beginning, God has declared the preeminence 01:17:48.100 --> 01:17:51.660 align:middle line:84% of the name of Jesus Christ in His plan for us. 01:17:51.660 --> 01:17:54.430 align:middle line:84% An angel taught our first father, Adam: 01:17:54.430 --> 01:17:59.050 align:middle line:84% "Thou shalt do all that thou doest in the name of the Son, 01:17:59.050 --> 01:18:03.220 align:middle line:84% and thou shalt repent and call upon God in the name of the Son 01:18:03.220 --> 01:18:05.450 align:middle line:90% forevermore." 01:18:05.450 --> 01:18:08.910 align:middle line:84% The Book of Mormon prophet King Benjamin taught his people, 01:18:08.910 --> 01:18:13.770 align:middle line:84% "There shall be no other name given nor any other way nor 01:18:13.770 --> 01:18:17.530 align:middle line:84% means whereby salvation can come." 01:18:17.530 --> 01:18:21.240 align:middle line:84% The Lord reiterated this truth to the Prophet Joseph Smith: 01:18:21.240 --> 01:18:25.330 align:middle line:84% "Behold, Jesus Christ is the name which is given 01:18:25.330 --> 01:18:29.940 align:middle line:84% of the Father, and there is none other name given whereby man 01:18:29.940 --> 01:18:32.150 align:middle line:90% can be saved." 01:18:32.150 --> 01:18:36.100 align:middle line:84% In our day, President Dallin H. Oaks has taught that "those who 01:18:36.100 --> 01:18:40.940 align:middle line:84% exercise faith in the sacred name of Jesus Christ ... 01:18:40.940 --> 01:18:44.800 align:middle line:84% and enter into his covenant ... can lay claim on the atoning 01:18:44.800 --> 01:18:48.420 align:middle line:90% sacrifice of Jesus Christ." 01:18:48.420 --> 01:18:53.450 align:middle line:84% Our Heavenly Father wants to make it absolutely clear that 01:18:53.450 --> 01:18:56.700 align:middle line:84% the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, 01:18:56.700 --> 01:18:59.880 align:middle line:84% is not simply one name among many. 01:18:59.880 --> 01:19:04.410 align:middle line:84% The Savior's name has singular and essential power. 01:19:04.410 --> 01:19:10.510 align:middle line:84% It is the only name by which salvation is possible. 01:19:10.510 --> 01:19:14.840 align:middle line:84% By emphasizing this truth in every dispensation, 01:19:14.840 --> 01:19:19.680 align:middle line:84% our loving Father assures all of His children that there is 01:19:19.680 --> 01:19:21.600 align:middle line:90% a way back to Him. 01:19:21.600 --> 01:19:26.860 align:middle line:84% But having a sure way available does not mean that our return 01:19:26.860 --> 01:19:28.940 align:middle line:90% is automatically assured. 01:19:28.940 --> 01:19:34.720 align:middle line:84% God tells us that our action is required: "Wherefore, 01:19:34.720 --> 01:19:39.350 align:middle line:84% all men [and women] must take upon them the name which is 01:19:39.350 --> 01:19:41.880 align:middle line:90% given of the Father." 01:19:41.880 --> 01:19:46.190 align:middle line:84% In order to access the saving power that comes only through 01:19:46.190 --> 01:19:50.330 align:middle line:84% the name of Christ, we must "humble [ourselves] before God 01:19:50.330 --> 01:19:55.460 align:middle line:84% ... and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits ... 01:19:55.460 --> 01:20:00.770 align:middle line:84% and [be] willing to take upon [us] the name of Jesus Christ" 01:20:00.770 --> 01:20:06.110 align:middle line:84% and thereby qualify, like my young eight-year-old friends, 01:20:06.110 --> 01:20:11.160 align:middle line:84% to "be received by baptism into his church." 01:20:11.160 --> 01:20:15.160 align:middle line:84% All who sincerely desire to take the Savior's name upon them 01:20:15.160 --> 01:20:18.730 align:middle line:84% must qualify for and receive the ordinance of baptism 01:20:18.730 --> 01:20:22.250 align:middle line:84% as a physical witness to God of their decision. 01:20:22.250 --> 01:20:26.490 align:middle line:84% But baptism is just the beginning. 01:20:26.490 --> 01:20:28.690 align:middle line:90% The word take is not passive. 01:20:28.690 --> 01:20:32.300 align:middle line:84% It is an action word with multiple definitions. 01:20:32.300 --> 01:20:37.660 align:middle line:84% Likewise, our commitment to take upon us the name of Jesus 01:20:37.660 --> 01:20:42.500 align:middle line:84% Christ requires action and has multiple dimensions. 01:20:42.500 --> 01:20:47.030 align:middle line:84% For example, one meaning of the word take is to partake 01:20:47.030 --> 01:20:53.860 align:middle line:84% of or receive into one's body, such as when we take a drink. 01:20:53.860 --> 01:20:56.920 align:middle line:84% By taking upon ourselves the name of Christ, 01:20:56.920 --> 01:21:00.760 align:middle line:84% we commit to take His teachings, His characteristics, 01:21:00.760 --> 01:21:04.880 align:middle line:84% and ultimately His love deep into our beings so that they 01:21:04.880 --> 01:21:07.140 align:middle line:90% become part of who we are. 01:21:07.140 --> 01:21:11.060 align:middle line:84% Thus the importance of President Nelson's invitation to young 01:21:11.060 --> 01:21:14.930 align:middle line:84% adults to "prayerfully and vigorously [seek] to understand 01:21:14.930 --> 01:21:18.220 align:middle line:84% what each of [the Savior's] various titles and names means 01:21:18.220 --> 01:21:22.910 align:middle line:84% personally for [them]" and to feast on the words of Christ 01:21:22.910 --> 01:21:27.330 align:middle line:84% in the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon. 01:21:27.330 --> 01:21:30.400 align:middle line:84% Another meaning of the word take is to accept a person 01:21:30.400 --> 01:21:34.680 align:middle line:84% in a particular role or embrace the truthfulness of an idea 01:21:34.680 --> 01:21:35.940 align:middle line:90% or principle. 01:21:35.940 --> 01:21:39.080 align:middle line:84% When we take upon us the name of Christ, 01:21:39.080 --> 01:21:43.040 align:middle line:84% we accept Him as our Savior and continually embrace His 01:21:43.040 --> 01:21:45.900 align:middle line:84% teachings as the guide for our lives. 01:21:45.900 --> 01:21:48.700 align:middle line:84% In every meaningful decision we make, 01:21:48.700 --> 01:21:53.600 align:middle line:84% we can take His gospel to be true and obediently live it 01:21:53.600 --> 01:21:58.430 align:middle line:84% with all of our heart, might, mind, and strength. 01:21:58.430 --> 01:22:02.260 align:middle line:84% The word take can also mean to align oneself with a name 01:22:02.260 --> 01:22:03.780 align:middle line:90% or a cause. 01:22:03.780 --> 01:22:06.480 align:middle line:84% Most of us have had the experience of taking 01:22:06.480 --> 01:22:10.280 align:middle line:84% on responsibility at work or taking up a cause 01:22:10.280 --> 01:22:11.730 align:middle line:90% or a movement. 01:22:11.730 --> 01:22:14.550 align:middle line:84% When we take upon ourselves the name of Christ, 01:22:14.550 --> 01:22:17.090 align:middle line:84% we take upon us the responsibilities of a true 01:22:17.090 --> 01:22:21.920 align:middle line:84% disciple, we advocate His cause, and we "stand as witnesses 01:22:21.920 --> 01:22:25.550 align:middle line:84% of [Him] at all times and in all things, 01:22:25.550 --> 01:22:28.570 align:middle line:84% and in all places that [we] may be in." 01:22:28.570 --> 01:22:33.040 align:middle line:84% President Nelson has called upon "every young woman and every 01:22:33.040 --> 01:22:36.110 align:middle line:84% young man ... to enlist in the youth battalion of the Lord 01:22:36.110 --> 01:22:37.620 align:middle line:90% to help gather Israel." 01:22:37.620 --> 01:22:42.630 align:middle line:84% And all of us are grateful to take up the prophetic call 01:22:42.630 --> 01:22:46.100 align:middle line:84% to profess the name of His restored Church as revealed 01:22:46.100 --> 01:22:50.590 align:middle line:84% by the Savior Himself: The Church of Jesus Christ 01:22:50.590 --> 01:22:53.410 align:middle line:90% of Latter-day Saints. 01:22:53.410 --> 01:22:56.080 align:middle line:84% In the process of taking the Savior's name upon us, 01:22:56.080 --> 01:23:00.210 align:middle line:84% we must understand that the cause of Christ and of His 01:23:00.210 --> 01:23:02.320 align:middle line:90% Church are one and the same. 01:23:02.320 --> 01:23:04.690 align:middle line:90% They cannot be separated. 01:23:04.690 --> 01:23:08.880 align:middle line:84% Similarly, our personal discipleship to the Savior 01:23:08.880 --> 01:23:14.050 align:middle line:84% and active membership in His Church are also inseparable. 01:23:14.050 --> 01:23:17.480 align:middle line:84% If we falter in our commitment to one, 01:23:17.480 --> 01:23:20.800 align:middle line:84% our commitment to the other will be diminished, 01:23:20.800 --> 01:23:25.370 align:middle line:90% as surely as night follows day. 01:23:25.370 --> 01:23:28.510 align:middle line:84% Some are reluctant to assume the name of Jesus Christ and His 01:23:28.510 --> 01:23:32.110 align:middle line:84% cause because they regard it to be unduly narrow, limiting, 01:23:32.110 --> 01:23:33.600 align:middle line:90% and confining. 01:23:33.600 --> 01:23:37.440 align:middle line:84% In reality, taking upon us the name of Christ is both 01:23:37.440 --> 01:23:39.530 align:middle line:90% liberating and enlarging. 01:23:39.530 --> 01:23:43.400 align:middle line:84% It awakens the desire we felt when we accepted God's plan 01:23:43.400 --> 01:23:45.210 align:middle line:90% through faith in the Savior. 01:23:45.210 --> 01:23:47.930 align:middle line:84% With this desire alive in our hearts, 01:23:47.930 --> 01:23:51.060 align:middle line:84% we can discover the real purpose of our divinely given gifts 01:23:51.060 --> 01:23:54.500 align:middle line:84% and talents, experience His empowering love, 01:23:54.500 --> 01:23:58.240 align:middle line:84% and grow in our concern for the welfare of others. 01:23:58.240 --> 01:24:01.520 align:middle line:84% As we take upon us the Savior's name, 01:24:01.520 --> 01:24:06.790 align:middle line:84% we truly lay hold upon every good thing. 01:24:06.790 --> 01:24:10.220 align:middle line:84% It is important to remember that taking the Savior's name upon 01:24:10.220 --> 01:24:13.440 align:middle line:84% us is a covenant commitment--beginning with 01:24:13.440 --> 01:24:15.510 align:middle line:90% the covenant we make at baptism. 01:24:15.510 --> 01:24:19.610 align:middle line:84% President Nelson has taught, "[Our] commitment to follow 01:24:19.610 --> 01:24:24.080 align:middle line:84% the Savior by making covenants with Him and then keeping those 01:24:24.080 --> 01:24:27.460 align:middle line:84% covenants will open the door to every spiritual blessing 01:24:27.460 --> 01:24:29.490 align:middle line:90% and privilege available." 01:24:29.490 --> 01:24:33.220 align:middle line:84% One of the supernal privileges of taking the Savior's name 01:24:33.220 --> 01:24:37.160 align:middle line:84% upon us by baptism is the access it provides to the next 01:24:37.160 --> 01:24:41.170 align:middle line:84% ordinance on the covenant path, our confirmation. 01:24:41.170 --> 01:24:44.260 align:middle line:84% When I asked one of my eight-year-old friends what 01:24:44.260 --> 01:24:48.730 align:middle line:84% taking the name of Christ meant to her, she replied simply, 01:24:48.730 --> 01:24:51.770 align:middle line:84% "It means I can have the Holy Ghost." 01:24:51.770 --> 01:24:54.020 align:middle line:90% She was right. 01:24:54.020 --> 01:24:57.680 align:middle line:84% The gift of the Holy Ghost is received by confirmation after 01:24:57.680 --> 01:25:00.400 align:middle line:84% we have received the ordinance of baptism. 01:25:00.400 --> 01:25:04.550 align:middle line:84% This gift is the right and opportunity to have the Holy 01:25:04.550 --> 01:25:06.900 align:middle line:90% Ghost as a constant companion. 01:25:06.900 --> 01:25:11.000 align:middle line:84% If we listen to and obey His still, small voice, 01:25:11.000 --> 01:25:13.530 align:middle line:84% He will keep us on the covenant path we entered through 01:25:13.530 --> 01:25:17.710 align:middle line:84% baptism, warn us when we are tempted to depart from it, 01:25:17.710 --> 01:25:22.340 align:middle line:84% and encourage us to repent and adjust as necessary. 01:25:22.340 --> 01:25:26.950 align:middle line:84% Our focus after baptism is to keep the Holy Ghost always with 01:25:26.950 --> 01:25:30.740 align:middle line:84% us so that we can continue progressing along the covenant 01:25:30.740 --> 01:25:31.990 align:middle line:90% path. 01:25:31.990 --> 01:25:35.830 align:middle line:84% The Holy Ghost can be with us only to the degree we keep 01:25:35.830 --> 01:25:38.950 align:middle line:84% our lives clean and free from sin. 01:25:38.950 --> 01:25:41.830 align:middle line:84% For this reason, the Lord has provided a way for us 01:25:41.830 --> 01:25:47.090 align:middle line:84% to continually refresh the purifying effect of our baptism 01:25:47.090 --> 01:25:50.150 align:middle line:84% through another ordinance--the sacrament. 01:25:50.150 --> 01:25:54.790 align:middle line:84% Each week, we can "witness ... that [we] are willing to take 01:25:54.790 --> 01:25:59.620 align:middle line:84% upon [us] the name of [the] Son" again by reaching out 01:25:59.620 --> 01:26:02.600 align:middle line:84% and taking the emblems of the Lord's flesh and blood 01:26:02.600 --> 01:26:07.080 align:middle line:84% in our hands--the bread and the water--and partaking of them 01:26:07.080 --> 01:26:09.680 align:middle line:90% into our very souls. 01:26:09.680 --> 01:26:14.830 align:middle line:84% In return, the Savior performs His cleansing miracle yet again 01:26:14.830 --> 01:26:18.080 align:middle line:84% and qualifies us to have the continuing influence 01:26:18.080 --> 01:26:19.700 align:middle line:90% of the Holy Ghost. 01:26:19.700 --> 01:26:24.740 align:middle line:84% Is this not evidence of the infinite mercy found only 01:26:24.740 --> 01:26:28.080 align:middle line:90% in the name of Jesus Christ? 01:26:28.080 --> 01:26:31.220 align:middle line:84% Just as we take His name upon us, 01:26:31.220 --> 01:26:34.580 align:middle line:84% He takes our sins and sorrows upon Him, 01:26:34.580 --> 01:26:37.810 align:middle line:84% and yet His arm is "stretched out still" 01:26:37.810 --> 01:26:42.280 align:middle line:84% to encircle us in the arms of His love. 01:26:42.280 --> 01:26:45.660 align:middle line:84% The sacrament is a weekly reminder that taking upon us 01:26:45.660 --> 01:26:48.600 align:middle line:84% the name of Jesus Christ is a living and continuing 01:26:48.600 --> 01:26:53.100 align:middle line:84% commitment, not a single event that happens once only 01:26:53.100 --> 01:26:54.930 align:middle line:90% on the day of our baptism. 01:26:54.930 --> 01:26:59.320 align:middle line:84% We can continually and repeatedly enjoy "that sacred 01:26:59.320 --> 01:27:03.120 align:middle line:84% holy off'ring, by man least understood, 01:27:03.120 --> 01:27:09.180 align:middle line:84% to have our sins remitted and take his flesh and blood." 01:27:09.180 --> 01:27:13.160 align:middle line:84% It is little wonder then that whenever the children of God 01:27:13.160 --> 01:27:16.530 align:middle line:84% understand the powerful, spiritual blessings that can 01:27:16.530 --> 01:27:19.520 align:middle line:84% come from taking upon them the name of Christ, 01:27:19.520 --> 01:27:25.110 align:middle line:84% their feeling is always of joy and their desire is always 01:27:25.110 --> 01:27:29.720 align:middle line:84% to enter into a covenant with their God. 01:27:29.720 --> 01:27:32.390 align:middle line:84% As we follow this divinely designed covenant path, 01:27:32.390 --> 01:27:35.950 align:middle line:84% our commitment and efforts to take upon us the name of Jesus 01:27:35.950 --> 01:27:39.240 align:middle line:84% Christ will give us the strength to "retain [His] name written 01:27:39.240 --> 01:27:40.820 align:middle line:90% always in [our] hearts." 01:27:40.820 --> 01:27:44.160 align:middle line:84% We will love God and our neighbors and feel a desire 01:27:44.160 --> 01:27:45.680 align:middle line:90% to minister to them. 01:27:45.680 --> 01:27:49.350 align:middle line:84% We will keep His commandments and yearn to draw nearer to Him 01:27:49.350 --> 01:27:52.090 align:middle line:84% by entering into additional covenants with Him. 01:27:52.090 --> 01:27:55.380 align:middle line:84% And when we find ourselves weak and incapable to act 01:27:55.380 --> 01:27:58.510 align:middle line:84% on our righteous desires, we will plead for the strength 01:27:58.510 --> 01:28:01.310 align:middle line:84% that comes only through His name, 01:28:01.310 --> 01:28:03.900 align:middle line:90% and He will come to our aid. 01:28:03.900 --> 01:28:07.830 align:middle line:84% As we endure in faithfulness, the day will come when we will 01:28:07.830 --> 01:28:12.990 align:middle line:84% see Him and be with Him, and we will find that we have become 01:28:12.990 --> 01:28:16.550 align:middle line:84% like Him, thus qualifying us to return to the presence 01:28:16.550 --> 01:28:18.180 align:middle line:90% of the Father. 01:28:18.180 --> 01:28:20.770 align:middle line:84% For the Savior's promise is sure: 01:28:20.770 --> 01:28:24.840 align:middle line:84% those who "believe on the name of Jesus Christ, 01:28:24.840 --> 01:28:27.800 align:middle line:84% and worship the Father in his name, 01:28:27.800 --> 01:28:31.700 align:middle line:84% and endure in faith on his name to the end" 01:28:31.700 --> 01:28:34.550 align:middle line:84% will be saved in the kingdom of God. 01:28:34.550 --> 01:28:39.120 align:middle line:84% With you, I rejoice that these incomparable blessings are made 01:28:39.120 --> 01:28:44.050 align:middle line:84% possible by taking upon us the name of Jesus Christ, 01:28:44.050 --> 01:28:48.130 align:middle line:84% of whom and in whose name I testify, amen. 01:28:48.130 --> 01:29:02.050 align:middle line:90% 01:29:02.050 --> 01:29:06.430 align:middle line:84% We are grateful for all who have spoken to us this afternoon 01:29:06.430 --> 01:29:10.980 align:middle line:84% and for the beautiful music that has been provided by this 01:29:10.980 --> 01:29:14.030 align:middle line:90% missionary choir. 01:29:14.030 --> 01:29:18.580 align:middle line:84% As you are all aware, we have made changes to the general 01:29:18.580 --> 01:29:22.990 align:middle line:84% conference schedule, which become effective with this 01:29:22.990 --> 01:29:24.430 align:middle line:90% conference. 01:29:24.430 --> 01:29:30.230 align:middle line:84% We will have no priesthood meeting this evening. 01:29:30.230 --> 01:29:35.440 align:middle line:84% Instead we will have a general women's session for all sisters 01:29:35.440 --> 01:29:41.400 align:middle line:84% ages eight and older, which will commence in the Conference 01:29:41.400 --> 01:29:44.300 align:middle line:90% Center this evening at 6:00 p.m. 01:29:44.300 --> 01:29:47.030 align:middle line:90% mountain daylight time. 01:29:47.030 --> 01:29:52.750 align:middle line:84% The nationwide broadcast of Music and the Spoken Word will 01:29:52.750 --> 01:29:56.940 align:middle line:84% be tomorrow morning from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m. 01:29:56.940 --> 01:29:59.330 align:middle line:90% mountain daylight time. 01:29:59.330 --> 01:30:03.140 align:middle line:84% The Sunday morning session of conference will immediately 01:30:03.140 --> 01:30:03.640 align:middle line:90% follow. 01:30:03.640 --> 01:30:06.340 align:middle line:90% 01:30:06.340 --> 01:30:11.420 align:middle line:84% The concluding speaker for this session will be Elder Dieter F. 01:30:11.420 --> 01:30:15.230 align:middle line:84% Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 01:30:15.230 --> 01:30:20.710 align:middle line:84% Following his remarks, the choir will close this meeting 01:30:20.710 --> 01:30:23.800 align:middle line:90% by singing "Hope of Israel." 01:30:23.800 --> 01:30:28.160 align:middle line:84% The benediction will then be offered by Elder Joni L. 01:30:28.160 --> 01:30:29.490 align:middle line:90% Koch of the Seventy. 01:30:29.490 --> 01:30:41.270 align:middle line:90% 01:30:41.270 --> 01:30:45.780 align:middle line:84% My dear brothers and sisters, it's such a wonderful occasion 01:30:45.780 --> 01:30:50.392 align:middle line:84% to be with you in this marvelous general conference session 01:30:50.392 --> 01:30:52.820 align:middle line:84% today to listen to inspired messages, 01:30:52.820 --> 01:30:59.660 align:middle line:84% to listen to this marvelous, amazing choir of missionaries 01:30:59.660 --> 01:31:02.400 align:middle line:84% representing the many thousands of missionaries all around 01:31:02.400 --> 01:31:07.650 align:middle line:84% the world--our daughters, our sons--and especially of being 01:31:07.650 --> 01:31:14.180 align:middle line:84% united in our faith today, again sustaining our dear President 01:31:14.180 --> 01:31:17.230 align:middle line:84% and prophet, President Russell M. Nelson; 01:31:17.230 --> 01:31:20.170 align:middle line:84% the First Presidency; and the General Officers of the Church. 01:31:20.170 --> 01:31:25.660 align:middle line:84% What a joyful day to be with you today! 01:31:25.660 --> 01:31:31.150 align:middle line:84% Now, the ancient King Solomon was one of the most outwardly 01:31:31.150 --> 01:31:35.190 align:middle line:84% successful human beings in history. 01:31:35.190 --> 01:31:42.080 align:middle line:84% He seemed to have everything: money, power, adoration, honor. 01:31:42.080 --> 01:31:46.270 align:middle line:84% But after decades of self-indulgence and luxury, 01:31:46.270 --> 01:31:52.320 align:middle line:84% how did King Solomon sum up his life? 01:31:52.320 --> 01:31:55.720 align:middle line:90% "All is vanity," he said. 01:31:55.720 --> 01:32:00.900 align:middle line:84% This man, who had it all, ended up disillusioned, pessimistic, 01:32:00.900 --> 01:32:07.200 align:middle line:84% and unhappy despite everything he had going for him. 01:32:07.200 --> 01:32:11.950 align:middle line:84% There's a word in German, Weltschmerz. 01:32:11.950 --> 01:32:15.510 align:middle line:84% Loosely defined, it means the sadness that comes from 01:32:15.510 --> 01:32:22.450 align:middle line:84% brooding about how the world is inferior to how we think it 01:32:22.450 --> 01:32:24.916 align:middle line:90% ought to be. 01:32:24.916 --> 01:32:29.180 align:middle line:84% Perhaps there's a little Weltschmerz in all of us. 01:32:29.180 --> 01:32:33.570 align:middle line:84% When silent sorrows creep into the corners of our lives; 01:32:33.570 --> 01:32:38.220 align:middle line:84% when sadness saturates our days and casts deep shadows over 01:32:38.220 --> 01:32:41.780 align:middle line:84% our nights; when tragedy and injustice enter the world 01:32:41.780 --> 01:32:48.290 align:middle line:84% around us, including the lives of those we love; 01:32:48.290 --> 01:32:53.100 align:middle line:84% when we journey through our own personal and lonely path 01:32:53.100 --> 01:32:58.864 align:middle line:84% of misfortune, and pain darkens our stillness and breaches 01:32:58.864 --> 01:33:06.240 align:middle line:84% our tranquility--we might be tempted to agree with Solomon 01:33:06.240 --> 01:33:10.910 align:middle line:84% that life is vain and devoid of meaning. 01:33:10.910 --> 01:33:13.930 align:middle line:90% The good news is, there is hope. 01:33:13.930 --> 01:33:17.156 align:middle line:84% There is a solution to the emptiness, vanity, 01:33:17.156 --> 01:33:20.360 align:middle line:90% and Weltschmerz of life. 01:33:20.360 --> 01:33:25.560 align:middle line:84% There is a solution to even the deepest hopelessness 01:33:25.560 --> 01:33:28.760 align:middle line:84% and discouragement you might feel. 01:33:28.760 --> 01:33:32.472 align:middle line:84% This hope is found in the transformative power 01:33:32.472 --> 01:33:39.130 align:middle line:84% of the gospel of Jesus Christ and in the Savior's redemptive 01:33:39.130 --> 01:33:43.744 align:middle line:84% power to heal us from our soul-sickness. 01:33:43.744 --> 01:33:48.736 align:middle line:84% "I am come," Jesus declared, "that they might have life, 01:33:48.736 --> 01:33:55.010 align:middle line:84% and that they might have it more abundantly." 01:33:55.010 --> 01:33:58.890 align:middle line:84% We achieve that abundant life not by focusing on our own 01:33:58.890 --> 01:34:07.750 align:middle line:84% needs or on our own achievements but by becoming true disciples 01:34:07.750 --> 01:34:13.670 align:middle line:84% of Jesus Christ--by following in His ways and engaging in His 01:34:13.670 --> 01:34:14.510 align:middle line:90% work. 01:34:14.510 --> 01:34:19.140 align:middle line:84% We find the abundant life by forgetting ourselves 01:34:19.140 --> 01:34:24.530 align:middle line:84% and engaging in the great cause of Christ. 01:34:24.530 --> 01:34:27.810 align:middle line:84% Now, what is the cause of Christ? 01:34:27.810 --> 01:34:36.370 align:middle line:84% It is to believe in Him, love as He loved, and do as He did. 01:34:36.370 --> 01:34:38.900 align:middle line:90% Jesus "went about doing good." 01:34:38.900 --> 01:34:42.970 align:middle line:84% He walked among the poor, the outcast, the sick, 01:34:42.970 --> 01:34:44.990 align:middle line:90% and the ashamed. 01:34:44.990 --> 01:34:50.850 align:middle line:84% He ministered to the powerless, the weak, and the friendless. 01:34:50.850 --> 01:34:55.560 align:middle line:84% He spent time with them; He spoke with them. 01:34:55.560 --> 01:35:00.570 align:middle line:90% "And he healed them." 01:35:00.570 --> 01:35:06.090 align:middle line:84% Everywhere He went, the Savior taught the "good news" 01:35:06.090 --> 01:35:07.700 align:middle line:90% of the gospel. 01:35:07.700 --> 01:35:13.540 align:middle line:84% He shared eternal truths that set people free spiritually 01:35:13.540 --> 01:35:16.830 align:middle line:90% as well as temporally. 01:35:16.830 --> 01:35:21.650 align:middle line:84% Those who dedicate themselves to Christ's cause discover 01:35:21.650 --> 01:35:24.240 align:middle line:84% the truth of the Savior's promise: 01:35:24.240 --> 01:35:31.410 align:middle line:84% "Whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it." 01:35:31.410 --> 01:35:37.790 align:middle line:84% Solomon was wrong, my dear brothers and sisters--life is 01:35:37.790 --> 01:35:39.190 align:middle line:90% not "vanity." 01:35:39.190 --> 01:35:46.560 align:middle line:84% To the contrary, it can be full of purpose, meaning, and peace. 01:35:46.560 --> 01:35:52.040 align:middle line:84% The healing hands of Jesus Christ reach out to all who 01:35:52.040 --> 01:35:54.390 align:middle line:90% seek Him. 01:35:54.390 --> 01:35:59.190 align:middle line:84% I have come to know without a doubt that believing and loving 01:35:59.190 --> 01:36:03.510 align:middle line:84% God and striving to follow Christ can change our hearts, 01:36:03.510 --> 01:36:09.770 align:middle line:84% soften our pain, and fill our souls with "exceedingly great 01:36:09.770 --> 01:36:11.670 align:middle line:90% joy." 01:36:11.670 --> 01:36:16.780 align:middle line:84% Of course, we must do more than merely have an intellectual 01:36:16.780 --> 01:36:22.240 align:middle line:84% understanding of the gospel for it to have this healing 01:36:22.240 --> 01:36:24.600 align:middle line:90% influence in our lives. 01:36:24.600 --> 01:36:30.710 align:middle line:84% We must incorporate it into our lives--make it a part of who we 01:36:30.710 --> 01:36:34.780 align:middle line:90% are and what we do. 01:36:34.780 --> 01:36:42.730 align:middle line:84% May I suggest that discipleship begins with three simple words: 01:36:42.730 --> 01:36:46.163 align:middle line:90% Believe, love, and do. 01:36:46.163 --> 01:36:49.270 align:middle line:90% 01:36:49.270 --> 01:36:55.100 align:middle line:84% Believing God leads to faith in Him and developing trust in His 01:36:55.100 --> 01:36:55.960 align:middle line:90% word. 01:36:55.960 --> 01:37:03.540 align:middle line:84% Faith causes our hearts to grow in our love for God and others. 01:37:03.540 --> 01:37:09.450 align:middle line:84% And as that love grows, we are inspired to emulate the Savior 01:37:09.450 --> 01:37:13.700 align:middle line:84% as we continue our own great journey on the path 01:37:13.700 --> 01:37:15.840 align:middle line:90% of discipleship. 01:37:15.840 --> 01:37:20.760 align:middle line:84% "But," you will say, "that seems a bit simplistic. 01:37:20.760 --> 01:37:23.890 align:middle line:84% Life's problems, certainly my problems, 01:37:23.890 --> 01:37:28.050 align:middle line:84% are far too complex for such a simple prescription. 01:37:28.050 --> 01:37:35.270 align:middle line:84% You can't cure Weltschmerz with three simple words: believe, 01:37:35.270 --> 01:37:38.560 align:middle line:90% love, do." 01:37:38.560 --> 01:37:42.990 align:middle line:84% No, it's not the aphorism that cures. 01:37:42.990 --> 01:37:49.980 align:middle line:84% It is the love of God that rescues, restores, and revives. 01:37:49.980 --> 01:37:51.310 align:middle line:90% God knows you. 01:37:51.310 --> 01:37:53.010 align:middle line:90% You are His child. 01:37:53.010 --> 01:37:55.690 align:middle line:90% He loves you. 01:37:55.690 --> 01:37:59.690 align:middle line:84% Even when you think that you are not lovable, 01:37:59.690 --> 01:38:02.630 align:middle line:90% He reaches out to you. 01:38:02.630 --> 01:38:07.020 align:middle line:84% This very day--every day--He reaches out to you, 01:38:07.020 --> 01:38:10.850 align:middle line:84% desiring to heal you, lift you up, 01:38:10.850 --> 01:38:18.070 align:middle line:84% and to replace the emptiness in your heart with an abiding joy. 01:38:18.070 --> 01:38:23.840 align:middle line:84% He desires to sweep away any darkness that clouds your life 01:38:23.840 --> 01:38:28.990 align:middle line:84% and fill it with the sacred and brilliant light of His unending 01:38:28.990 --> 01:38:30.940 align:middle line:90% glory. 01:38:30.940 --> 01:38:34.920 align:middle line:84% I have experienced this for myself. 01:38:34.920 --> 01:38:38.180 align:middle line:84% And it is my witness as an Apostle of the Lord Jesus 01:38:38.180 --> 01:38:45.230 align:middle line:84% Christ that all who come unto God--all who truly believe, 01:38:45.230 --> 01:38:52.380 align:middle line:84% love, and do--can experience the same. 01:38:52.380 --> 01:38:57.020 align:middle line:84% The scriptures teach us that "without faith it is impossible 01:38:57.020 --> 01:39:01.870 align:middle line:84% to please [God]: for he that cometh to God must believe that 01:39:01.870 --> 01:39:03.810 align:middle line:90% he is." 01:39:03.810 --> 01:39:09.040 align:middle line:84% For some, the act of believing is difficult. 01:39:09.040 --> 01:39:11.820 align:middle line:84% Sometimes our pride gets in the way. 01:39:11.820 --> 01:39:16.390 align:middle line:84% Perhaps we think that because we are intelligent, educated, 01:39:16.390 --> 01:39:21.110 align:middle line:84% or experienced, we simply cannot believe in God. 01:39:21.110 --> 01:39:28.110 align:middle line:84% And we begin to look at religion as foolish tradition. 01:39:28.110 --> 01:39:32.960 align:middle line:84% In my experience, belief is not so much like a painting we look 01:39:32.960 --> 01:39:37.136 align:middle line:84% at and admire and about which we discuss and theorize. 01:39:37.136 --> 01:39:39.850 align:middle line:90% 01:39:39.850 --> 01:39:43.760 align:middle line:84% No, it is more like a plough that we take into the fields 01:39:43.760 --> 01:39:48.950 align:middle line:84% and, by the sweat of our brow, create furrows in the earth 01:39:48.950 --> 01:39:55.470 align:middle line:84% that accept seeds and bear fruit that shall remain. 01:39:55.470 --> 01:40:00.770 align:middle line:84% Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. 01:40:00.770 --> 01:40:07.190 align:middle line:84% This is the promise to all who seek to believe. 01:40:07.190 --> 01:40:10.950 align:middle line:84% The scriptures reveal that the more we love God and His 01:40:10.950 --> 01:40:15.180 align:middle line:90% children, the happier we become. 01:40:15.180 --> 01:40:19.980 align:middle line:84% The love Jesus spoke about, however, isn't a gift-card, 01:40:19.980 --> 01:40:23.400 align:middle line:84% throwaway, move-on-to-other-things love. 01:40:23.400 --> 01:40:28.250 align:middle line:84% It isn't a love that is spoken of and then forgotten. 01:40:28.250 --> 01:40:32.130 align:middle line:84% It is not a "let me know if there is anything I can do" 01:40:32.130 --> 01:40:33.010 align:middle line:90% sort of love. 01:40:33.010 --> 01:40:35.940 align:middle line:90% 01:40:35.940 --> 01:40:42.030 align:middle line:84% The love God speaks of is the kind that enters our hearts 01:40:42.030 --> 01:40:46.270 align:middle line:84% when we awake in the morning, stays with us throughout 01:40:46.270 --> 01:40:50.380 align:middle line:84% the day, and swells in our hearts as we give voice 01:40:50.380 --> 01:40:56.350 align:middle line:84% to our prayers of gratitude at evening's end. 01:40:56.350 --> 01:41:03.360 align:middle line:84% This is the inexpressible love Heavenly Father has for us. 01:41:03.360 --> 01:41:09.110 align:middle line:84% It is this endless compassion that allows us to more clearly 01:41:09.110 --> 01:41:11.610 align:middle line:90% see others for who they are. 01:41:11.610 --> 01:41:16.270 align:middle line:84% Through the lens of pure love, we see immortal beings 01:41:16.270 --> 01:41:22.720 align:middle line:84% of infinite potential and worth and beloved sons and daughters 01:41:22.720 --> 01:41:26.270 align:middle line:90% of Almighty God. 01:41:26.270 --> 01:41:35.330 align:middle line:84% Once we see through that lens, we cannot discount, disregard, 01:41:35.330 --> 01:41:38.230 align:middle line:90% or discriminate against anyone. 01:41:38.230 --> 01:41:41.230 align:middle line:90% 01:41:41.230 --> 01:41:45.180 align:middle line:84% In the Savior's work, it is often "by small and simple" 01:41:45.180 --> 01:41:50.160 align:middle line:84% means that "great things [are] brought to pass." 01:41:50.160 --> 01:41:55.360 align:middle line:84% We know that it requires repetitive practice to become 01:41:55.360 --> 01:41:57.960 align:middle line:90% good at anything. 01:41:57.960 --> 01:42:00.750 align:middle line:84% Whether it's playing the clarinet, 01:42:00.750 --> 01:42:04.020 align:middle line:84% kicking a ball into a net, repairing a car, 01:42:04.020 --> 01:42:11.640 align:middle line:84% or even flying an airplane, it is through practicing that we 01:42:11.640 --> 01:42:15.250 align:middle line:90% may become better and better. 01:42:15.250 --> 01:42:18.780 align:middle line:84% The organization our Savior created on earth--The Church 01:42:18.780 --> 01:42:24.520 align:middle line:84% of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints--helps us to do just 01:42:24.520 --> 01:42:25.660 align:middle line:90% that. 01:42:25.660 --> 01:42:31.910 align:middle line:84% It offers a place to practice living the way He taught 01:42:31.910 --> 01:42:36.850 align:middle line:84% and blessing others the way He did. 01:42:36.850 --> 01:42:41.120 align:middle line:84% As Church members, we are given callings, responsibilities, 01:42:41.120 --> 01:42:46.170 align:middle line:84% and opportunities to reach out in compassion and minister 01:42:46.170 --> 01:42:48.790 align:middle line:90% to others. 01:42:48.790 --> 01:42:52.490 align:middle line:84% Recently the Church has placed a renewed emphasis 01:42:52.490 --> 01:42:57.340 align:middle line:84% on ministering, or serving or loving others. 01:42:57.340 --> 01:43:04.310 align:middle line:84% And this is truly a wonderful way to minister, 01:43:04.310 --> 01:43:09.297 align:middle line:90% a way to all of those around us. 01:43:09.297 --> 01:43:15.360 align:middle line:84% It is a more refined way to love and serve our fellow beings 01:43:15.360 --> 01:43:18.136 align:middle line:84% by ministering to them in many ways. 01:43:18.136 --> 01:43:23.440 align:middle line:84% Great thought was taken to determine what we should call 01:43:23.440 --> 01:43:25.756 align:middle line:90% this special emphasis. 01:43:25.756 --> 01:43:31.310 align:middle line:84% One of the names considered was shepherding, 01:43:31.310 --> 01:43:36.960 align:middle line:84% a fitting reference to Christ's invitation: "Feed my sheep." 01:43:36.960 --> 01:43:42.750 align:middle line:84% However, it had at least one complication: 01:43:42.750 --> 01:43:47.420 align:middle line:84% using that term would make me a German shepherd. 01:43:47.420 --> 01:43:57.830 align:middle line:90% 01:43:57.830 --> 01:44:04.040 align:middle line:84% Consequently, I am quite content with the term ministering. 01:44:04.040 --> 01:44:07.230 align:middle line:90% 01:44:07.230 --> 01:44:10.090 align:middle line:84% Of course, this emphasis is not new. 01:44:10.090 --> 01:44:13.960 align:middle line:84% It simply provides a renewed and refined opportunity for us 01:44:13.960 --> 01:44:18.160 align:middle line:84% to practice the Savior's commandments to "love one 01:44:18.160 --> 01:44:20.916 align:middle line:84% another," a refined way to implement and practice 01:44:20.916 --> 01:44:22.030 align:middle line:90% the purpose of the Church. 01:44:22.030 --> 01:44:27.570 align:middle line:90% Just think about that. 01:44:27.570 --> 01:44:30.890 align:middle line:84% Missionary work--the courageous, humble, 01:44:30.890 --> 01:44:35.670 align:middle line:84% and confident sharing of the gospel--is a wonderful example 01:44:35.670 --> 01:44:39.365 align:middle line:84% of ministering to the spiritual needs of others, 01:44:39.365 --> 01:44:40.640 align:middle line:90% whoever they are. 01:44:40.640 --> 01:44:46.840 align:middle line:84% Or doing temple work--seeking out the names of our ancestors 01:44:46.840 --> 01:44:50.960 align:middle line:84% and offering them the blessings of eternity. 01:44:50.960 --> 01:44:55.410 align:middle line:84% What a divine way of ministering. 01:44:55.410 --> 01:44:58.660 align:middle line:84% Consider the act of seeking out the poor and the needy, 01:44:58.660 --> 01:45:00.840 align:middle line:84% lifting the hands that hang down, 01:45:00.840 --> 01:45:04.460 align:middle line:84% or blessing the sick and afflicted. 01:45:04.460 --> 01:45:09.510 align:middle line:84% Aren't these the very acts of pure ministering the Lord 01:45:09.510 --> 01:45:14.890 align:middle line:84% practiced when He walked the earth? 01:45:14.890 --> 01:45:17.620 align:middle line:84% If you are not a member of the Church, 01:45:17.620 --> 01:45:21.820 align:middle line:90% I invite you to come and see. 01:45:21.820 --> 01:45:26.850 align:middle line:90% Come and join with us. 01:45:26.850 --> 01:45:30.860 align:middle line:84% If you are a member of the Church but presently not 01:45:30.860 --> 01:45:38.380 align:middle line:84% participating actively, I invite you, please come back. 01:45:38.380 --> 01:45:40.660 align:middle line:90% We need you! 01:45:40.660 --> 01:45:44.440 align:middle line:84% Come, add your strengths to ours. 01:45:44.440 --> 01:45:49.520 align:middle line:84% Because of your unique talents, abilities, and personality, 01:45:49.520 --> 01:45:52.960 align:middle line:84% you will help us become better and happier. 01:45:52.960 --> 01:45:58.510 align:middle line:84% In return, we will help you become better and happier 01:45:58.510 --> 01:45:59.400 align:middle line:90% as well. 01:45:59.400 --> 01:46:03.240 align:middle line:84% Come, help us build and strengthen a culture 01:46:03.240 --> 01:46:09.770 align:middle line:84% of healing, kindness, and mercy towards all of God's children. 01:46:09.770 --> 01:46:14.780 align:middle line:84% For we are all striving to become new creatures where "old 01:46:14.780 --> 01:46:18.880 align:middle line:84% things are passed away" and "all things ... become new." 01:46:18.880 --> 01:46:24.320 align:middle line:84% God shows us the direction to move--forward and upward. 01:46:24.320 --> 01:46:30.300 align:middle line:84% He says, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." 01:46:30.300 --> 01:46:35.730 align:middle line:84% Let us all work together to become the people God intended 01:46:35.730 --> 01:46:37.820 align:middle line:90% for us to become. 01:46:37.820 --> 01:46:42.230 align:middle line:84% This is the kind of gospel culture we desire to cultivate 01:46:42.230 --> 01:46:45.080 align:middle line:84% throughout the Church of Jesus Christ. 01:46:45.080 --> 01:46:50.370 align:middle line:84% We seek to strengthen the Church as a place where we forgive one 01:46:50.370 --> 01:46:55.730 align:middle line:84% another; where we resist the temptation to find fault, 01:46:55.730 --> 01:46:59.560 align:middle line:84% gossip, and bring others down; where, 01:46:59.560 --> 01:47:05.920 align:middle line:84% instead of pointing out flaws, we lift up and help each other 01:47:05.920 --> 01:47:10.430 align:middle line:90% to become the best we can be. 01:47:10.430 --> 01:47:12.159 align:middle line:90% Let me invite you again. 01:47:12.159 --> 01:47:13.863 align:middle line:90% Come and see. 01:47:13.863 --> 01:47:15.640 align:middle line:90% Join with us. 01:47:15.640 --> 01:47:18.630 align:middle line:90% We need you. 01:47:18.630 --> 01:47:20.900 align:middle line:84% You will find that this Church is filled with some 01:47:20.900 --> 01:47:23.670 align:middle line:84% of the finest people this world has to offer. 01:47:23.670 --> 01:47:27.610 align:middle line:84% They are welcoming, loving, kind, and sincere. 01:47:27.610 --> 01:47:30.580 align:middle line:84% They are sacrificing, hardworking, 01:47:30.580 --> 01:47:34.660 align:middle line:90% and even heroic at times. 01:47:34.660 --> 01:47:41.180 align:middle line:84% And they are also painfully imperfect. 01:47:41.180 --> 01:47:43.330 align:middle line:90% They make mistakes. 01:47:43.330 --> 01:47:46.660 align:middle line:84% From time to time they say things they shouldn't. 01:47:46.660 --> 01:47:50.600 align:middle line:84% They do things they wish they hadn't. 01:47:50.600 --> 01:47:54.620 align:middle line:84% But they do have this in common--they want to improve 01:47:54.620 --> 01:48:00.800 align:middle line:84% and draw closer to the Lord, our Savior, even Jesus Christ. 01:48:00.800 --> 01:48:03.920 align:middle line:90% They are trying to get it right. 01:48:03.920 --> 01:48:05.080 align:middle line:90% They believe. 01:48:05.080 --> 01:48:06.520 align:middle line:90% They love. 01:48:06.520 --> 01:48:07.370 align:middle line:90% They do. 01:48:07.370 --> 01:48:10.210 align:middle line:90% 01:48:10.210 --> 01:48:13.230 align:middle line:84% They want to become less selfish, more compassionate, 01:48:13.230 --> 01:48:18.690 align:middle line:90% more refined, more like Jesus. 01:48:18.690 --> 01:48:22.300 align:middle line:90% Yes, life can be hard at times. 01:48:22.300 --> 01:48:29.970 align:middle line:84% Certainly we all have our times of despair and discouragement. 01:48:29.970 --> 01:48:32.970 align:middle line:84% But the gospel of Jesus Christ offers hope. 01:48:32.970 --> 01:48:35.280 align:middle line:84% And in the Church of Jesus Christ, 01:48:35.280 --> 01:48:38.840 align:middle line:84% we join with others who seek a place where we can feel 01:48:38.840 --> 01:48:43.990 align:middle line:84% at home--a place of growth where, together, 01:48:43.990 --> 01:48:48.090 align:middle line:90% we can believe, love, and do. 01:48:48.090 --> 01:48:55.000 align:middle line:84% Regardless of our differences, we seek to embrace one another 01:48:55.000 --> 01:49:00.180 align:middle line:84% as sons and daughters of our beloved Heavenly Father. 01:49:00.180 --> 01:49:04.360 align:middle line:84% I am grateful beyond measure to be a member of The Church 01:49:04.360 --> 01:49:08.580 align:middle line:84% of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and to know that God 01:49:08.580 --> 01:49:12.310 align:middle line:84% loves His children enough to give them a blueprint 01:49:12.310 --> 01:49:16.280 align:middle line:84% for happiness and meaning in this life and a way 01:49:16.280 --> 01:49:21.470 align:middle line:84% to experience eternal joy in the halls of glory in the life 01:49:21.470 --> 01:49:23.290 align:middle line:90% to come. 01:49:23.290 --> 01:49:26.760 align:middle line:84% I am grateful that God has given us a way to heal 01:49:26.760 --> 01:49:33.310 align:middle line:84% the soul-sicknesses and the Weltschmerz of life. 01:49:33.310 --> 01:49:38.860 align:middle line:84% I testify and leave you my blessing that as we believe 01:49:38.860 --> 01:49:46.710 align:middle line:84% in God, as we love Him and love His children with all 01:49:46.710 --> 01:49:52.740 align:middle line:84% our hearts, and strive to do as God has instructed us, 01:49:52.740 --> 01:49:58.008 align:middle line:84% we will find healing and peace, happiness and meaning. 01:49:58.008 --> 01:50:01.070 align:middle line:84% In the sacred name of our Master, 01:50:01.070 --> 01:50:06.806 align:middle line:84% in the name of our Savior, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:50:06.806 --> 01:50:14.774 align:middle line:90% 01:50:14.774 --> 01:53:43.038 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "HOPE OF ISRAEL"] 01:53:43.038 --> 01:53:52.998 align:middle line:90% 01:53:52.998 --> 01:53:56.580 align:middle line:84% Our beloved, dear, and kind Heavenly Father, 01:53:56.580 --> 01:54:01.680 align:middle line:84% we come before Thee with our hearts full of gratitude 01:54:01.680 --> 01:54:07.760 align:middle line:84% for the precious teachings and instructions that we have heard 01:54:07.760 --> 01:54:11.170 align:middle line:84% from our prophets, apostles, and leaders today. 01:54:11.170 --> 01:54:14.460 align:middle line:90% 01:54:14.460 --> 01:54:21.390 align:middle line:84% We are very grateful for this music that has been provided 01:54:21.390 --> 01:54:23.820 align:middle line:90% by our valiant missionaries. 01:54:23.820 --> 01:54:26.160 align:middle line:84% We thank Thee especially, Father, 01:54:26.160 --> 01:54:30.650 align:middle line:84% for the sweet spirit that we have felt here today. 01:54:30.650 --> 01:54:37.860 align:middle line:84% We ask Thee to bless us with the courage, determination, desire, 01:54:37.860 --> 01:54:43.270 align:middle line:84% and the capacity to act upon the feelings and thoughts that came 01:54:43.270 --> 01:54:47.780 align:middle line:84% to us while we were listening to this beautiful music and to Thy 01:54:47.780 --> 01:54:50.540 align:middle line:90% servants. 01:54:50.540 --> 01:54:55.320 align:middle line:84% Please bless us, Father, with the capacity to prepare 01:54:55.320 --> 01:54:59.800 align:middle line:84% our minds and our hearts for the next sessions of general 01:54:59.800 --> 01:55:04.680 align:middle line:84% conference, that we may receive further personal revelation, 01:55:04.680 --> 01:55:08.945 align:middle line:84% we humbly pray in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:55:08.945 --> 01:57:14.000 align:middle line:90% 01:57:14.000 --> 01:57:18.820 align:middle line:84% This has been a broadcast of the 188th Semiannual General 01:57:18.820 --> 01:57:22.280 align:middle line:84% Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 01:57:22.280 --> 01:57:23.140 align:middle line:90% Saints. 01:57:23.140 --> 01:57:27.100 align:middle line:84% Speakers were selected from the General Authorities and General 01:57:27.100 --> 01:57:28.860 align:middle line:90% Officers of the Church. 01:57:28.860 --> 01:57:32.870 align:middle line:84% The music for this session was provided by a combined choir 01:57:32.870 --> 01:57:35.880 align:middle line:84% of missionaries from the Missionary Training Center 01:57:35.880 --> 01:57:39.290 align:middle line:90% in Provo, Utah. 01:57:39.290 --> 01:57:42.140 align:middle line:84% This broadcast has been furnished as a public service 01:57:42.140 --> 01:57:43.930 align:middle line:90% by Bonneville Distribution. 01:57:43.930 --> 01:57:47.030 align:middle line:84% Any reproduction, recording, transcription, 01:57:47.030 --> 01:57:50.680 align:middle line:84% or other use of this program without written consent is 01:57:50.680 --> 01:57:52.230 align:middle line:90% prohibited. 01:57:52.230 --> 01:58:29.206 align:middle line:90%