WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:08.039 align:middle line:90% 00:00:08.039 --> 00:00:11.320 align:middle line:84% From the Conference Center at Temple Square in Salt Lake 00:00:11.320 --> 00:00:14.650 align:middle line:84% City, this is the Sunday afternoon session 00:00:14.650 --> 00:00:18.650 align:middle line:84% of the 188th Semiannual General Conference 00:00:18.650 --> 00:00:22.150 align:middle line:84% of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 00:00:22.150 --> 00:00:25.880 align:middle line:84% with speakers selected from the General Authorities and General 00:00:25.880 --> 00:00:27.620 align:middle line:90% Officers of the Church. 00:00:27.620 --> 00:00:31.120 align:middle line:84% Music for this session is provided by the Tabernacle 00:00:31.120 --> 00:00:32.680 align:middle line:90% Choir at Temple Square. 00:00:32.680 --> 00:00:35.420 align:middle line:90% 00:00:35.420 --> 00:00:38.080 align:middle line:84% This broadcast is furnished as a public service 00:00:38.080 --> 00:00:39.760 align:middle line:90% by Bonneville Distribution. 00:00:39.760 --> 00:00:42.730 align:middle line:84% Any reproduction, recording, transcription, 00:00:42.730 --> 00:00:46.000 align:middle line:84% or other use of this program without written consent 00:00:46.000 --> 00:00:46.600 align:middle line:90% is prohibited. 00:00:46.600 --> 00:00:50.430 align:middle line:90% 00:00:50.430 --> 00:00:53.620 align:middle line:84% President Dallin H. Oaks, First Counselor 00:00:53.620 --> 00:00:55.800 align:middle line:84% in the First Presidency of the Church, 00:00:55.800 --> 00:00:57.090 align:middle line:90% will conduct this session. 00:00:57.090 --> 00:01:03.980 align:middle line:90% 00:01:03.980 --> 00:01:06.630 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, we welcome you 00:01:06.630 --> 00:01:11.890 align:middle line:84% to the concluding session of the 188th Semiannual General 00:01:11.890 --> 00:01:15.810 align:middle line:84% Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 00:01:15.810 --> 00:01:16.900 align:middle line:90% Saints. 00:01:16.900 --> 00:01:21.410 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson, who presides at the conference, 00:01:21.410 --> 00:01:25.830 align:middle line:84% has asked me to conduct this session. 00:01:25.830 --> 00:01:27.970 align:middle line:84% We extend our greetings to members 00:01:27.970 --> 00:01:30.340 align:middle line:84% of the Church and friends everywhere 00:01:30.340 --> 00:01:33.380 align:middle line:84% who are participating in these proceedings 00:01:33.380 --> 00:01:37.170 align:middle line:84% by radio, television, the internet, or satellite 00:01:37.170 --> 00:01:39.360 align:middle line:90% transmission. 00:01:39.360 --> 00:01:43.470 align:middle line:84% The music for this session will be provided by the Tabernacle 00:01:43.470 --> 00:01:47.660 align:middle line:84% Choir at Temple Square under the direction of Mack 00:01:47.660 --> 00:01:51.680 align:middle line:84% Wilberg and Ryan Murphy, with Andrew Unsworth 00:01:51.680 --> 00:01:54.770 align:middle line:90% and Brian Mathias at the organ. 00:01:54.770 --> 00:01:58.290 align:middle line:84% The choir will open this meeting by singing 00:01:58.290 --> 00:02:00.570 align:middle line:90% "In Hymns of Praise." 00:02:00.570 --> 00:02:04.460 align:middle line:84% The invocation will then be offered by Elder Gary B. 00:02:04.460 --> 00:02:06.055 align:middle line:90% Sabin of the Seventy. 00:02:06.055 --> 00:02:16.724 align:middle line:90% 00:02:16.724 --> 00:05:13.630 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "IN HYMNS OF PRAISE"] 00:05:13.630 --> 00:05:23.330 align:middle line:90% 00:05:23.330 --> 00:05:26.220 align:middle line:84% Our dear Father in Heaven, we are 00:05:26.220 --> 00:05:29.250 align:middle line:84% grateful for the opportunity to be here assembled 00:05:29.250 --> 00:05:33.430 align:middle line:84% for this concluding session of this general conference. 00:05:33.430 --> 00:05:37.730 align:middle line:84% We're so thankful, Father, for the inspiring music 00:05:37.730 --> 00:05:41.890 align:middle line:84% and messages that we have heard and felt 00:05:41.890 --> 00:05:45.780 align:middle line:84% during this revelatory and historic conference weekend. 00:05:45.780 --> 00:05:48.377 align:middle line:90% 00:05:48.377 --> 00:05:49.960 align:middle line:84% We pray that our hearts will be opened 00:05:49.960 --> 00:05:53.490 align:middle line:84% and our minds open to the messages that 00:05:53.490 --> 00:05:56.200 align:middle line:84% have been so thoughtfully and prayerfully prepared, 00:05:56.200 --> 00:05:59.720 align:middle line:84% that we might act upon the impressions we feel 00:05:59.720 --> 00:06:03.360 align:middle line:84% to become closer to Thee and better disciples of Thy Beloved 00:06:03.360 --> 00:06:04.520 align:middle line:90% Son. 00:06:04.520 --> 00:06:07.970 align:middle line:84% We are mindful, Father, of many assembled here 00:06:07.970 --> 00:06:10.540 align:middle line:84% and throughout the world who are carrying 00:06:10.540 --> 00:06:16.940 align:middle line:84% heavy burdens, who feel alone or afraid or confused. 00:06:16.940 --> 00:06:20.550 align:middle line:84% We pray that the hope and the comfort 00:06:20.550 --> 00:06:22.570 align:middle line:84% and the clarity of the gospel will 00:06:22.570 --> 00:06:29.080 align:middle line:84% provide the help that they seek and the answers they seek. 00:06:29.080 --> 00:06:33.140 align:middle line:84% We are deeply grateful, Father, for Thy love, 00:06:33.140 --> 00:06:37.350 align:middle line:84% for Thy Beloved Son, for the plan, 00:06:37.350 --> 00:06:39.120 align:middle line:84% and for the opportunity to be here, 00:06:39.120 --> 00:06:42.220 align:middle line:84% to be led by living prophets, seers, and revelators. 00:06:42.220 --> 00:06:45.260 align:middle line:84% We pray that we might minister one to another as our dear 00:06:45.260 --> 00:06:47.849 align:middle line:84% prophet has taught us so well, that we 00:06:47.849 --> 00:06:50.140 align:middle line:84% might help each other along the covenant path back home 00:06:50.140 --> 00:06:51.300 align:middle line:90% to Thee. 00:06:51.300 --> 00:06:54.560 align:middle line:84% And we do so in the most worthy and sacred name 00:06:54.560 --> 00:06:56.740 align:middle line:90% of Thy Son, Jesus Christ, amen. 00:06:56.740 --> 00:07:05.830 align:middle line:90% 00:07:05.830 --> 00:07:10.860 align:middle line:84% The choir will now favor us with "I Believe in Christ." 00:07:10.860 --> 00:07:14.710 align:middle line:84% We will then be pleased to hear from President Henry B. 00:07:14.710 --> 00:07:18.220 align:middle line:84% Eyring, who serves as Second Counselor in the First 00:07:18.220 --> 00:07:19.510 align:middle line:90% Presidency. 00:07:19.510 --> 00:07:23.780 align:middle line:84% He will be followed by Brother Brian K. Ashton, who 00:07:23.780 --> 00:07:27.530 align:middle line:84% serves as Second Counselor in the Sunday School General 00:07:27.530 --> 00:07:28.790 align:middle line:90% Presidency. 00:07:28.790 --> 00:07:33.240 align:middle line:84% Elder Robert C. Gay of the Presidency of the Seventy 00:07:33.240 --> 00:07:35.860 align:middle line:84% will then address us, and he will 00:07:35.860 --> 00:07:41.227 align:middle line:84% be followed by Elder Matthew L. Carpenter of the Seventy. 00:07:41.227 --> 00:07:48.213 align:middle line:90% 00:07:48.213 --> 00:12:09.561 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "I BELIEVE IN CHRIST"] 00:12:09.561 --> 00:12:16.519 align:middle line:90% 00:12:16.519 --> 00:12:22.170 align:middle line:84% My dear brothers and sisters, I am grateful for the opportunity 00:12:22.170 --> 00:12:23.970 align:middle line:90% to speak with you. 00:12:23.970 --> 00:12:29.580 align:middle line:84% This conference has been uplifting and edifying for me. 00:12:29.580 --> 00:12:33.190 align:middle line:84% The music sung and the words spoken 00:12:33.190 --> 00:12:38.470 align:middle line:84% have been carried to our hearts by the Holy Ghost. 00:12:38.470 --> 00:12:41.240 align:middle line:84% I pray that what I say will be conveyed 00:12:41.240 --> 00:12:45.050 align:middle line:90% to you by that same Spirit. 00:12:45.050 --> 00:12:48.350 align:middle line:84% Many years ago, I was first counselor 00:12:48.350 --> 00:12:52.880 align:middle line:84% to a district president in the eastern United States. 00:12:52.880 --> 00:12:57.670 align:middle line:84% More than once, as we were driving to our little branches 00:12:57.670 --> 00:13:03.840 align:middle line:84% of the Church, he said to me, "Hal, when we meet someone, 00:13:03.840 --> 00:13:08.250 align:middle line:84% treat them as if they were in serious trouble, 00:13:08.250 --> 00:13:11.160 align:middle line:84% and you will be right more than half the time." 00:13:11.160 --> 00:13:14.040 align:middle line:90% 00:13:14.040 --> 00:13:17.940 align:middle line:84% Not only was he right, but I have learned over the years 00:13:17.940 --> 00:13:21.100 align:middle line:84% that he was too low in his estimate. 00:13:21.100 --> 00:13:27.800 align:middle line:84% Today I wish to encourage you in the troubles you face. 00:13:27.800 --> 00:13:31.200 align:middle line:84% Our mortal life is designed by a loving God 00:13:31.200 --> 00:13:37.320 align:middle line:84% to be a test and source of growth for each of us. 00:13:37.320 --> 00:13:40.880 align:middle line:84% You remember God's words regarding His children 00:13:40.880 --> 00:13:44.000 align:middle line:84% at the Creation of the world: "And we 00:13:44.000 --> 00:13:47.470 align:middle line:84% will prove them herewith, to see if they 00:13:47.470 --> 00:13:51.760 align:middle line:84% will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall 00:13:51.760 --> 00:13:54.390 align:middle line:90% command them." 00:13:54.390 --> 00:13:59.000 align:middle line:84% Since the beginning, the tests have not been easy. 00:13:59.000 --> 00:14:04.230 align:middle line:84% We face trials that come from having mortal bodies. 00:14:04.230 --> 00:14:10.810 align:middle line:84% All of us live in a world where Satan's war against truth 00:14:10.810 --> 00:14:13.680 align:middle line:84% and against our personal happiness 00:14:13.680 --> 00:14:16.570 align:middle line:90% is becoming more intense. 00:14:16.570 --> 00:14:22.430 align:middle line:84% The world and your life can seem to you 00:14:22.430 --> 00:14:27.390 align:middle line:90% to be in increasing commotion. 00:14:27.390 --> 00:14:32.410 align:middle line:84% My reassurance is this, simply: the loving God 00:14:32.410 --> 00:14:40.300 align:middle line:84% who allowed these tests for you also designed a sure way 00:14:40.300 --> 00:14:42.500 align:middle line:90% to pass through them. 00:14:42.500 --> 00:14:45.970 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father so loved the world 00:14:45.970 --> 00:14:50.880 align:middle line:84% that He sent His Beloved Son to help us. 00:14:50.880 --> 00:14:55.850 align:middle line:84% His Son, Jesus Christ, gave His life for us. 00:14:55.850 --> 00:14:59.910 align:middle line:84% Jesus Christ bore in Gethsemane and on the cross 00:14:59.910 --> 00:15:02.840 align:middle line:90% the weight of all our sins. 00:15:02.840 --> 00:15:08.180 align:middle line:84% He experienced all the sorrows, the pains, 00:15:08.180 --> 00:15:11.010 align:middle line:84% the effects of our sins so that He 00:15:11.010 --> 00:15:18.260 align:middle line:84% could comfort us and strengthen us through every test in life. 00:15:18.260 --> 00:15:22.590 align:middle line:84% You remember the Lord said to His servants: 00:15:22.590 --> 00:15:25.620 align:middle line:90% "The Father and I are one. 00:15:25.620 --> 00:15:29.890 align:middle line:84% I am in the Father and the Father in me; 00:15:29.890 --> 00:15:39.240 align:middle line:84% and inasmuch as ye have received me, ye are in me and I in you. 00:15:39.240 --> 00:15:41.640 align:middle line:84% "Wherefore, I am in your midst, ... 00:15:41.640 --> 00:15:46.580 align:middle line:84% I am the good shepherd, and the stone of Israel. 00:15:46.580 --> 00:15:53.740 align:middle line:84% He that buildeth upon this rock shall never fall." 00:15:53.740 --> 00:15:56.550 align:middle line:84% Our prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, 00:15:56.550 --> 00:16:00.080 align:middle line:84% has also given that same assurance. 00:16:00.080 --> 00:16:05.940 align:middle line:84% Moreover, he described a way we might build upon that rock 00:16:05.940 --> 00:16:09.560 align:middle line:84% and put the Lord's name upon our hearts 00:16:09.560 --> 00:16:13.170 align:middle line:90% to guide us through our trials. 00:16:13.170 --> 00:16:16.090 align:middle line:90% He said: "You ... 00:16:16.090 --> 00:16:20.220 align:middle line:84% may be momentarily disheartened, remember, 00:16:20.220 --> 00:16:22.850 align:middle line:90% life is not meant to be easy. 00:16:22.850 --> 00:16:28.400 align:middle line:84% Trials must be borne and grief endured along the way. 00:16:28.400 --> 00:16:33.470 align:middle line:84% As you remember that 'with God nothing shall be 00:16:33.470 --> 00:16:36.400 align:middle line:84% impossible,' know that He is your Father. 00:16:36.400 --> 00:16:41.490 align:middle line:84% You are a son or daughter created in His image, entitled 00:16:41.490 --> 00:16:45.930 align:middle line:84% through your worthiness to receive revelation to help 00:16:45.930 --> 00:16:48.330 align:middle line:90% with your righteous endeavors. 00:16:48.330 --> 00:16:54.320 align:middle line:84% You may take upon you the holy name of the Lord. 00:16:54.320 --> 00:17:00.460 align:middle line:84% You can qualify to speak in the sacred name of God." 00:17:00.460 --> 00:17:03.750 align:middle line:90% 00:17:03.750 --> 00:17:06.740 align:middle line:84% President Nelson's words remind us 00:17:06.740 --> 00:17:13.180 align:middle line:84% of the promise found in the sacramental prayer, a promise 00:17:13.180 --> 00:17:17.940 align:middle line:84% our Heavenly Father fulfills as we do what we in turn 00:17:17.940 --> 00:17:19.790 align:middle line:90% promise to do. 00:17:19.790 --> 00:17:26.240 align:middle line:84% Listen to the words: "O God, the Eternal Father, we 00:17:26.240 --> 00:17:31.640 align:middle line:84% ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless 00:17:31.640 --> 00:17:36.260 align:middle line:84% and sanctify this bread to the souls of all those 00:17:36.260 --> 00:17:40.570 align:middle line:84% who partake of it, that they may eat in remembrance 00:17:40.570 --> 00:17:45.640 align:middle line:84% of the body of thy Son, and witness unto thee, O 00:17:45.640 --> 00:17:48.550 align:middle line:84% God, the Eternal Father, that they 00:17:48.550 --> 00:17:52.840 align:middle line:84% are willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, 00:17:52.840 --> 00:17:57.690 align:middle line:84% and always remember him and keep his commandments which he has 00:17:57.690 --> 00:18:01.530 align:middle line:84% given them; that they may always have his Spirit 00:18:01.530 --> 00:18:03.080 align:middle line:90% to be with them. 00:18:03.080 --> 00:18:05.520 align:middle line:90% Amen." 00:18:05.520 --> 00:18:10.010 align:middle line:84% Each time we say the word amen when that prayer is offered 00:18:10.010 --> 00:18:15.460 align:middle line:84% on our behalf, we pledge that by partaking of the bread, 00:18:15.460 --> 00:18:21.550 align:middle line:84% we are willing to take upon us the holy name of Jesus Christ, 00:18:21.550 --> 00:18:24.820 align:middle line:84% always remember Him, and keep His commandments. 00:18:24.820 --> 00:18:28.470 align:middle line:84% In turn, we are promised that we may always 00:18:28.470 --> 00:18:31.000 align:middle line:90% have His Spirit to be with us. 00:18:31.000 --> 00:18:35.450 align:middle line:84% Because of these promises, the Savior 00:18:35.450 --> 00:18:39.520 align:middle line:84% is the rock upon which we can stand safely 00:18:39.520 --> 00:18:44.970 align:middle line:84% and without fear in every storm we face. 00:18:44.970 --> 00:18:46.870 align:middle line:84% As I have pondered the covenant words 00:18:46.870 --> 00:18:49.250 align:middle line:84% and corresponding blessings promised, 00:18:49.250 --> 00:18:52.630 align:middle line:84% I have wondered what it means to be 00:18:52.630 --> 00:18:57.810 align:middle line:84% willing to take upon us the name of Jesus Christ. 00:18:57.810 --> 00:19:03.570 align:middle line:84% President Dallin H. Oaks explains: "It is significant 00:19:03.570 --> 00:19:05.770 align:middle line:84% that when we partake of the sacrament 00:19:05.770 --> 00:19:08.500 align:middle line:84% we do not witness that we take upon us 00:19:08.500 --> 00:19:11.140 align:middle line:90% the name of Jesus Christ. 00:19:11.140 --> 00:19:15.410 align:middle line:84% We witness that we are willing to do so. 00:19:15.410 --> 00:19:19.130 align:middle line:84% The fact that we only witness to our willingness 00:19:19.130 --> 00:19:25.070 align:middle line:84% suggests that something else must happen before we actually 00:19:25.070 --> 00:19:30.480 align:middle line:84% take that sacred name upon us in the most important sense." 00:19:30.480 --> 00:19:34.120 align:middle line:90% 00:19:34.120 --> 00:19:37.350 align:middle line:84% The statement that we are "willing to take upon [us]" 00:19:37.350 --> 00:19:41.560 align:middle line:84% His name tells us that while we first take the Savior's name 00:19:41.560 --> 00:19:44.570 align:middle line:84% when we were baptized, taking His name 00:19:44.570 --> 00:19:46.550 align:middle line:90% is not finished at baptism. 00:19:46.550 --> 00:19:51.840 align:middle line:84% We must work continually to take His name throughout our lives, 00:19:51.840 --> 00:19:54.440 align:middle line:84% including when we renew covenants 00:19:54.440 --> 00:19:57.650 align:middle line:84% at the sacrament table and make covenants 00:19:57.650 --> 00:20:01.070 align:middle line:90% in the Lord's holy temples. 00:20:01.070 --> 00:20:06.350 align:middle line:84% So two crucial questions for each of us 00:20:06.350 --> 00:20:13.730 align:middle line:84% become "What must I be doing to take His name upon me?" 00:20:13.730 --> 00:20:20.320 align:middle line:84% and "How will I know when I am making progress?" 00:20:20.320 --> 00:20:21.930 align:middle line:84% The statement of President Nelson 00:20:21.930 --> 00:20:24.970 align:middle line:90% suggests one helpful answer. 00:20:24.970 --> 00:20:29.020 align:middle line:84% He said that we could take the name of the Savior upon us 00:20:29.020 --> 00:20:31.710 align:middle line:90% and that we could speak for Him. 00:20:31.710 --> 00:20:35.630 align:middle line:84% When we speak for Him, we serve Him. 00:20:35.630 --> 00:20:40.760 align:middle line:84% Remember the quotation: "For how knoweth a man the master whom 00:20:40.760 --> 00:20:44.550 align:middle line:84% he has not served, and who is a stranger unto him, 00:20:44.550 --> 00:20:50.170 align:middle line:84% and is far from the thoughts and intents of his heart?" 00:20:50.170 --> 00:20:54.700 align:middle line:84% Speaking for Him requires a prayer of faith. 00:20:54.700 --> 00:20:58.430 align:middle line:84% It takes fervent prayer to Heavenly Father 00:20:58.430 --> 00:21:01.510 align:middle line:84% to learn what words we could speak 00:21:01.510 --> 00:21:04.590 align:middle line:90% to help the Savior in His work. 00:21:04.590 --> 00:21:10.900 align:middle line:84% We must qualify for the promise: "Whether by mine own voice 00:21:10.900 --> 00:21:17.140 align:middle line:84% or by the voice of my servants, it is the same." 00:21:17.140 --> 00:21:19.420 align:middle line:84% Yet it takes more than speaking for Him 00:21:19.420 --> 00:21:21.860 align:middle line:90% to take His name upon us. 00:21:21.860 --> 00:21:25.970 align:middle line:84% There are feelings in our hearts we must have 00:21:25.970 --> 00:21:31.010 align:middle line:90% to qualify as His servants. 00:21:31.010 --> 00:21:33.730 align:middle line:84% The prophet Mormon described the feelings 00:21:33.730 --> 00:21:38.870 align:middle line:84% that qualify us and enable us to take His name upon us. 00:21:38.870 --> 00:21:45.390 align:middle line:84% These feelings include faith, hope, and charity, which 00:21:45.390 --> 00:21:47.600 align:middle line:90% is the pure love of Christ. 00:21:47.600 --> 00:21:53.510 align:middle line:84% Mormon explained to people just like you: 00:21:53.510 --> 00:21:56.690 align:middle line:84% "For I judge that ye have faith in Christ because 00:21:56.690 --> 00:22:00.670 align:middle line:84% of your meekness; for if ye have not faith in him 00:22:00.670 --> 00:22:03.400 align:middle line:84% then ye are not fit to be numbered 00:22:03.400 --> 00:22:05.990 align:middle line:90% among the people of his church. 00:22:05.990 --> 00:22:08.670 align:middle line:84% "And again, my beloved brethren [and sisters], 00:22:08.670 --> 00:22:10.910 align:middle line:84% I would speak unto you concerning hope. 00:22:10.910 --> 00:22:13.730 align:middle line:84% How is it that ye can attain unto faith, 00:22:13.730 --> 00:22:16.060 align:middle line:90% save ye shall have hope? 00:22:16.060 --> 00:22:18.030 align:middle line:84% "And what is it that ye shall hope for? 00:22:18.030 --> 00:22:20.820 align:middle line:84% Behold I say unto you that ye shall have hope 00:22:20.820 --> 00:22:24.270 align:middle line:84% through the atonement of Christ and the power 00:22:24.270 --> 00:22:27.930 align:middle line:84% of his resurrection, to be raised unto life 00:22:27.930 --> 00:22:31.320 align:middle line:84% eternal, and this because of your faith 00:22:31.320 --> 00:22:33.800 align:middle line:90% in him according to the promise. 00:22:33.800 --> 00:22:38.050 align:middle line:84% "Wherefore, if a man have faith he must needs have hope; 00:22:38.050 --> 00:22:41.420 align:middle line:84% for without faith there cannot be any hope. 00:22:41.420 --> 00:22:43.930 align:middle line:84% "And again, behold I say unto you that he cannot have faith 00:22:43.930 --> 00:22:50.630 align:middle line:84% and hope, save he shall be meek, and lowly of heart. 00:22:50.630 --> 00:22:52.400 align:middle line:84% "If so, his faith and hope is vain, 00:22:52.400 --> 00:22:54.740 align:middle line:84% for none is acceptable before God, 00:22:54.740 --> 00:22:57.900 align:middle line:84% save the meek and lowly in heart; 00:22:57.900 --> 00:23:00.610 align:middle line:84% and if a man be meek and lowly in heart, 00:23:00.610 --> 00:23:03.300 align:middle line:84% and confesses by the power of the Holy Ghost 00:23:03.300 --> 00:23:06.090 align:middle line:84% that Jesus is the Christ, he must needs 00:23:06.090 --> 00:23:11.260 align:middle line:84% have charity; for if he have not charity he is nothing; 00:23:11.260 --> 00:23:14.520 align:middle line:84% wherefore he must needs have charity." 00:23:14.520 --> 00:23:18.100 align:middle line:84% After describing charity, Mormon goes on to say: 00:23:18.100 --> 00:23:20.690 align:middle line:84% "But charity is the pure love of Christ, 00:23:20.690 --> 00:23:23.430 align:middle line:84% and it endureth forever; and whoso 00:23:23.430 --> 00:23:26.240 align:middle line:84% is found possessed of it at the last day, 00:23:26.240 --> 00:23:28.820 align:middle line:90% it shall be well with him. 00:23:28.820 --> 00:23:31.990 align:middle line:84% "Wherefore, my beloved brethren [and sisters], 00:23:31.990 --> 00:23:35.490 align:middle line:84% [I] pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, 00:23:35.490 --> 00:23:37.360 align:middle line:84% that ye may be filled with this love, 00:23:37.360 --> 00:23:40.550 align:middle line:84% which he hath bestowed upon all [those] who are true followers 00:23:40.550 --> 00:23:44.950 align:middle line:84% of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; 00:23:44.950 --> 00:23:48.660 align:middle line:84% that when he shall appear we shall be like him, 00:23:48.660 --> 00:23:53.320 align:middle line:84% for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; 00:23:53.320 --> 00:23:57.080 align:middle line:84% that we may be purified even as he is pure. 00:23:57.080 --> 00:23:58.980 align:middle line:90% Amen." 00:23:58.980 --> 00:24:02.780 align:middle line:84% My testimony is that the Savior is putting His name 00:24:02.780 --> 00:24:04.500 align:middle line:90% in your hearts. 00:24:04.500 --> 00:24:08.420 align:middle line:84% For many of you, your faith in Him is increasing. 00:24:08.420 --> 00:24:12.090 align:middle line:84% You are feeling more hope and optimism. 00:24:12.090 --> 00:24:14.420 align:middle line:84% And you are feeling the pure love of Christ 00:24:14.420 --> 00:24:18.430 align:middle line:90% for others and for yourself. 00:24:18.430 --> 00:24:22.320 align:middle line:84% I see it in our missionaries serving all over the world. 00:24:22.320 --> 00:24:24.860 align:middle line:84% I see it in members who are speaking 00:24:24.860 --> 00:24:27.760 align:middle line:84% to their friends and family members 00:24:27.760 --> 00:24:31.760 align:middle line:84% about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 00:24:31.760 --> 00:24:35.180 align:middle line:84% Men, women, young people, and even children 00:24:35.180 --> 00:24:37.730 align:middle line:84% are ministering out of love for the Savior 00:24:37.730 --> 00:24:39.820 align:middle line:90% and for their neighbors. 00:24:39.820 --> 00:24:43.790 align:middle line:84% At the first report of disasters across the world, which are now 00:24:43.790 --> 00:24:48.620 align:middle line:84% so frequent, members make plans to go to the rescue, sometimes 00:24:48.620 --> 00:24:51.490 align:middle line:84% across oceans, without being asked. 00:24:51.490 --> 00:24:55.760 align:middle line:84% They sometimes find it hard to wait until the devastated areas 00:24:55.760 --> 00:24:57.550 align:middle line:90% can receive them. 00:24:57.550 --> 00:25:00.010 align:middle line:84% I realize that some of you listening today 00:25:00.010 --> 00:25:02.920 align:middle line:84% may feel that your faith and hope are being 00:25:02.920 --> 00:25:05.100 align:middle line:90% overcome by your troubles. 00:25:05.100 --> 00:25:09.080 align:middle line:90% And you may yearn to feel love. 00:25:09.080 --> 00:25:12.920 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, the Lord has opportunities near you 00:25:12.920 --> 00:25:15.880 align:middle line:90% to feel and to share His love. 00:25:15.880 --> 00:25:19.730 align:middle line:84% You can pray with confidence for the Lord 00:25:19.730 --> 00:25:23.660 align:middle line:90% to lead you to someone for Him. 00:25:23.660 --> 00:25:29.740 align:middle line:84% He answers the prayers of meek volunteers like you. 00:25:29.740 --> 00:25:32.980 align:middle line:84% You will feel the love of God for you and for the person 00:25:32.980 --> 00:25:34.340 align:middle line:90% you serve for Him. 00:25:34.340 --> 00:25:38.070 align:middle line:84% As you help children of God in their troubles, 00:25:38.070 --> 00:25:41.330 align:middle line:84% your own troubles will seem lighter. 00:25:41.330 --> 00:25:44.730 align:middle line:84% Your faith and your hope will be strengthened. 00:25:44.730 --> 00:25:46.670 align:middle line:84% I am an eyewitness of that truth. 00:25:46.670 --> 00:25:49.390 align:middle line:84% Over a lifetime, my wife has spoken for the Lord 00:25:49.390 --> 00:25:52.350 align:middle line:84% and served people for Him in many places. 00:25:52.350 --> 00:25:57.760 align:middle line:84% As I've mentioned before, one of our bishops once said to me, 00:25:57.760 --> 00:25:59.800 align:middle line:90% "Brother Eyring, I'm amazed. 00:25:59.800 --> 00:26:03.430 align:middle line:84% Every time I hear of a person in the ward who is in trouble, 00:26:03.430 --> 00:26:04.660 align:middle line:90% I hurry to help. 00:26:04.660 --> 00:26:07.350 align:middle line:84% Yet by the time I arrive, it seems that your wife 00:26:07.350 --> 00:26:09.290 align:middle line:90% has already been there." 00:26:09.290 --> 00:26:13.240 align:middle line:84% That has been true in all the places 00:26:13.240 --> 00:26:17.410 align:middle line:90% we have lived for 56 years. 00:26:17.410 --> 00:26:20.150 align:middle line:84% Now she can speak only a few words a day. 00:26:20.150 --> 00:26:23.270 align:middle line:84% She is visited by people she loved for the Lord. 00:26:23.270 --> 00:26:27.510 align:middle line:84% Every night and morning I sing hymns with her and we pray. 00:26:27.510 --> 00:26:32.150 align:middle line:84% I have to be voice in the prayers and in the songs. 00:26:32.150 --> 00:26:35.770 align:middle line:84% Sometimes I can see her mouthing the words of the hymns. 00:26:35.770 --> 00:26:38.200 align:middle line:90% She prefers children's songs. 00:26:38.200 --> 00:26:41.700 align:middle line:84% The sentiment she seems to like best is summarized in the song 00:26:41.700 --> 00:26:44.360 align:middle line:90% "I'm Trying to Be like Jesus." 00:26:44.360 --> 00:26:47.360 align:middle line:84% The other day, after singing the words of the chorus: 00:26:47.360 --> 00:26:49.860 align:middle line:84% "Love one another as Jesus loves you. 00:26:49.860 --> 00:26:52.490 align:middle line:84% Try to show kindness in all that you do," 00:26:52.490 --> 00:26:57.040 align:middle line:84% she said softly but clearly, "Try, try, try." 00:26:57.040 --> 00:27:00.700 align:middle line:90% 00:27:00.700 --> 00:27:04.880 align:middle line:84% I think she will find, when she sees Him, 00:27:04.880 --> 00:27:10.500 align:middle line:84% that our Savior has put His name into her heart 00:27:10.500 --> 00:27:12.770 align:middle line:84% and that she has become like Him. 00:27:12.770 --> 00:27:15.900 align:middle line:84% He is carrying her through her troubles 00:27:15.900 --> 00:27:20.190 align:middle line:84% now, as He will carry you through yours. 00:27:20.190 --> 00:27:24.820 align:middle line:84% I bear you my witness that the Savior knows and loves you. 00:27:24.820 --> 00:27:28.240 align:middle line:84% He knows your name as you know His. 00:27:28.240 --> 00:27:30.440 align:middle line:90% He knows your troubles. 00:27:30.440 --> 00:27:32.200 align:middle line:90% He has experienced them. 00:27:32.200 --> 00:27:35.180 align:middle line:84% By His Atonement, He has overcome the world. 00:27:35.180 --> 00:27:38.220 align:middle line:84% By your being willing to take His name upon you, 00:27:38.220 --> 00:27:42.200 align:middle line:84% you will lift the burdens of countless others. 00:27:42.200 --> 00:27:45.740 align:middle line:84% And you will find in time that you know the Savior better 00:27:45.740 --> 00:27:47.530 align:middle line:90% and that you love Him more. 00:27:47.530 --> 00:27:51.870 align:middle line:84% His name will be in your heart and fixed in your memory. 00:27:51.870 --> 00:27:54.450 align:middle line:84% it is the name by which you will be called. 00:27:54.450 --> 00:27:58.540 align:middle line:84% I so witness, with gratitude for His loving-kindness 00:27:58.540 --> 00:28:01.070 align:middle line:84% to me, to my loved ones, and to you, 00:28:01.070 --> 00:28:03.040 align:middle line:84% in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:28:03.040 --> 00:28:13.530 align:middle line:90% 00:28:13.530 --> 00:28:16.290 align:middle line:84% For her entire life, my wife, Melinda, 00:28:16.290 --> 00:28:20.500 align:middle line:84% has tried with all her heart to be a faithful disciple of Jesus 00:28:20.500 --> 00:28:21.370 align:middle line:90% Christ. 00:28:21.370 --> 00:28:23.760 align:middle line:84% Yet, beginning in her youth, she felt 00:28:23.760 --> 00:28:26.720 align:middle line:84% unworthy of Heavenly Father's love and blessings 00:28:26.720 --> 00:28:29.910 align:middle line:84% because she misunderstood His nature. 00:28:29.910 --> 00:28:32.860 align:middle line:84% Fortunately, Melinda continued to keep the commandments 00:28:32.860 --> 00:28:36.310 align:middle line:84% in spite of the sadness she felt. A few years ago, 00:28:36.310 --> 00:28:38.950 align:middle line:84% she had a series of experiences that 00:28:38.950 --> 00:28:43.720 align:middle line:84% helped her better understand God's nature, including 00:28:43.720 --> 00:28:46.780 align:middle line:84% His love for His children and His gratitude 00:28:46.780 --> 00:28:51.940 align:middle line:84% for our even-imperfect efforts to do His work. 00:28:51.940 --> 00:28:56.310 align:middle line:84% She explains how this has influenced her: 00:28:56.310 --> 00:28:59.910 align:middle line:84% "I now feel sure that the Father's plan works, 00:28:59.910 --> 00:29:02.850 align:middle line:84% that He is personally invested in our success, 00:29:02.850 --> 00:29:05.250 align:middle line:84% and that He provides us with the lessons 00:29:05.250 --> 00:29:09.210 align:middle line:84% and experiences we need to return to His presence. 00:29:09.210 --> 00:29:12.750 align:middle line:84% I see myself and others more as God sees us. 00:29:12.750 --> 00:29:15.490 align:middle line:84% I am able to parent, teach, and serve 00:29:15.490 --> 00:29:17.820 align:middle line:90% with more love and less fear. 00:29:17.820 --> 00:29:20.940 align:middle line:84% I feel peace and confidence rather than 00:29:20.940 --> 00:29:22.840 align:middle line:90% anxiety and insecurity. 00:29:22.840 --> 00:29:26.260 align:middle line:84% Instead of feeling judged, I feel supported. 00:29:26.260 --> 00:29:28.180 align:middle line:90% My faith is more certain. 00:29:28.180 --> 00:29:32.015 align:middle line:84% I feel my Father's love more often and more deeply." 00:29:32.015 --> 00:29:35.150 align:middle line:90% 00:29:35.150 --> 00:29:37.980 align:middle line:84% Having "a correct idea of [Heavenly Father's] character, 00:29:37.980 --> 00:29:41.430 align:middle line:84% perfections, and attributes" is essential to exercising 00:29:41.430 --> 00:29:44.970 align:middle line:84% faith sufficient to obtain exaltation. 00:29:44.970 --> 00:29:48.200 align:middle line:84% A correct understanding of Heavenly Father's character 00:29:48.200 --> 00:29:50.830 align:middle line:84% can change how we see ourselves and others 00:29:50.830 --> 00:29:53.770 align:middle line:84% and help us to understand God's tremendous love 00:29:53.770 --> 00:29:56.290 align:middle line:84% for His children and His great desire 00:29:56.290 --> 00:29:58.400 align:middle line:90% to help us become like Him. 00:29:58.400 --> 00:30:01.190 align:middle line:84% An incorrect view of His nature can 00:30:01.190 --> 00:30:04.760 align:middle line:84% leave us feeling as if we are incapable of ever making it 00:30:04.760 --> 00:30:07.380 align:middle line:90% back to His presence. 00:30:07.380 --> 00:30:10.780 align:middle line:84% My objective today is to teach key doctrinal points 00:30:10.780 --> 00:30:14.070 align:middle line:84% about the Father that will allow each of us, 00:30:14.070 --> 00:30:18.720 align:middle line:84% but especially those who wonder if God loves them, to better 00:30:18.720 --> 00:30:22.790 align:middle line:84% understand His true character and to exercise greater faith 00:30:22.790 --> 00:30:28.500 align:middle line:84% in Him, His Son, and His plan for us. 00:30:28.500 --> 00:30:30.870 align:middle line:84% In the premortal world, we were born as spirits 00:30:30.870 --> 00:30:34.820 align:middle line:84% to Heavenly Parents and lived with Them as a family. 00:30:34.820 --> 00:30:38.050 align:middle line:84% They knew us, taught us, and loved us. 00:30:38.050 --> 00:30:41.540 align:middle line:84% We wanted very much to be like our Heavenly Father. 00:30:41.540 --> 00:30:44.810 align:middle line:84% However, to do so, we recognized that we would have to: 00:30:44.810 --> 00:30:45.620 align:middle line:90% 1. 00:30:45.620 --> 00:30:49.770 align:middle line:84% Obtain glorified, immortal, physical bodies; 00:30:49.770 --> 00:30:50.570 align:middle line:90% 2. 00:30:50.570 --> 00:30:53.670 align:middle line:84% Be married and form families by the sealing power 00:30:53.670 --> 00:30:55.660 align:middle line:90% of the priesthood; and 00:30:55.660 --> 00:30:56.340 align:middle line:90% 3. 00:30:56.340 --> 00:31:01.080 align:middle line:84% Acquire all knowledge, power, and divine attributes. 00:31:01.080 --> 00:31:03.320 align:middle line:84% Consequently, the Father created a plan 00:31:03.320 --> 00:31:05.890 align:middle line:84% that would allow us, upon certain conditions, 00:31:05.890 --> 00:31:08.700 align:middle line:84% to obtain physical bodies that would become 00:31:08.700 --> 00:31:13.080 align:middle line:84% immortal and glorified in the Resurrection; marry and form 00:31:13.080 --> 00:31:17.180 align:middle line:84% families in mortality or, for the faithful who did not have 00:31:17.180 --> 00:31:19.820 align:middle line:84% this opportunity, after mortality; 00:31:19.820 --> 00:31:23.250 align:middle line:84% progress towards perfection; and ultimately 00:31:23.250 --> 00:31:25.950 align:middle line:84% return to our Heavenly Parents and live with Them 00:31:25.950 --> 00:31:29.320 align:middle line:84% and our families in a state of exaltation 00:31:29.320 --> 00:31:31.720 align:middle line:90% and eternal happiness. 00:31:31.720 --> 00:31:34.600 align:middle line:84% The scriptures call this the plan of salvation. 00:31:34.600 --> 00:31:37.160 align:middle line:84% We were so grateful for this plan 00:31:37.160 --> 00:31:40.610 align:middle line:84% that when it was presented to us, we shouted for joy. 00:31:40.610 --> 00:31:43.780 align:middle line:84% Each of us accepted the conditions of the plan, 00:31:43.780 --> 00:31:47.350 align:middle line:84% including the experiences and challenges of mortality 00:31:47.350 --> 00:31:51.820 align:middle line:84% that would help us develop divine attributes. 00:31:51.820 --> 00:31:53.990 align:middle line:84% During mortality, Heavenly Father 00:31:53.990 --> 00:31:56.010 align:middle line:84% provides us with the conditions we need 00:31:56.010 --> 00:31:58.010 align:middle line:90% to progress within His plan. 00:31:58.010 --> 00:32:00.860 align:middle line:84% The Father begot Jesus Christ in the flesh 00:32:00.860 --> 00:32:02.720 align:middle line:84% and provided Him with divine help 00:32:02.720 --> 00:32:04.750 align:middle line:90% to fulfill His mortal mission. 00:32:04.750 --> 00:32:08.230 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father will likewise help each of us 00:32:08.230 --> 00:32:11.120 align:middle line:84% if we will strive to keep His commandments. 00:32:11.120 --> 00:32:13.350 align:middle line:90% The Father gives us agency. 00:32:13.350 --> 00:32:16.190 align:middle line:84% Our lives are in His hands, and our "days 00:32:16.190 --> 00:32:19.100 align:middle line:84% are known" and "shall not be numbered less." 00:32:19.100 --> 00:32:22.120 align:middle line:84% And He ensures that eventually all things 00:32:22.120 --> 00:32:25.800 align:middle line:84% work for the good of those who love Him. 00:32:25.800 --> 00:32:29.320 align:middle line:84% It is Heavenly Father who gives us our daily bread, which 00:32:29.320 --> 00:32:32.420 align:middle line:84% includes both the food we eat and the strength we 00:32:32.420 --> 00:32:34.450 align:middle line:90% need to keep His commandments. 00:32:34.450 --> 00:32:37.160 align:middle line:90% The Father gives good gifts. 00:32:37.160 --> 00:32:39.620 align:middle line:84% He hears and answers our prayers. 00:32:39.620 --> 00:32:43.120 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father delivers us from evil when we let Him. 00:32:43.120 --> 00:32:45.500 align:middle line:90% He weeps for us when we suffer. 00:32:45.500 --> 00:32:50.250 align:middle line:84% Ultimately, all of our blessings come from the Father. 00:32:50.250 --> 00:32:52.300 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father guides us and gives us 00:32:52.300 --> 00:32:56.360 align:middle line:84% the experiences we need based on our strengths, weaknesses, 00:32:56.360 --> 00:32:59.530 align:middle line:84% and choices so that we might bear good fruit. 00:32:59.530 --> 00:33:03.690 align:middle line:84% The Father chastens us when necessary because He loves us. 00:33:03.690 --> 00:33:07.770 align:middle line:84% He is a "Man of Counsel," who will counsel with us if we ask. 00:33:07.770 --> 00:33:10.860 align:middle line:84% It is Heavenly Father who sends both the influence 00:33:10.860 --> 00:33:13.630 align:middle line:84% and the gift of the Holy Ghost into our lives. 00:33:13.630 --> 00:33:16.010 align:middle line:84% Through the gift of the Holy Ghost, 00:33:16.010 --> 00:33:18.200 align:middle line:84% the glory--or intelligence, light, 00:33:18.200 --> 00:33:21.430 align:middle line:84% and power--of the Father can dwell in us. 00:33:21.430 --> 00:33:25.130 align:middle line:84% If we will strive to increase in light and truth until our eyes 00:33:25.130 --> 00:33:28.450 align:middle line:84% become single to God's glory, Heavenly Father will send 00:33:28.450 --> 00:33:31.940 align:middle line:84% the Holy Spirit of Promise to seal us up unto eternal life 00:33:31.940 --> 00:33:35.720 align:middle line:84% and reveal His face unto us--either in this life 00:33:35.720 --> 00:33:37.630 align:middle line:90% or the next. 00:33:37.630 --> 00:33:40.560 align:middle line:84% In the postmortal spirit world, Heavenly Father 00:33:40.560 --> 00:33:42.880 align:middle line:84% continues to shed forth the Holy Ghost 00:33:42.880 --> 00:33:45.840 align:middle line:84% and send missionaries to those who need the gospel. 00:33:45.840 --> 00:33:48.060 align:middle line:84% He answers prayers and helps those 00:33:48.060 --> 00:33:51.720 align:middle line:84% who lack them receive vicarious saving ordinances. 00:33:51.720 --> 00:33:53.650 align:middle line:84% The Father raised up Jesus Christ 00:33:53.650 --> 00:33:57.210 align:middle line:84% and gave Him power to bring to pass the Resurrection, which 00:33:57.210 --> 00:34:00.420 align:middle line:84% is the means by which we obtain immortal bodies. 00:34:00.420 --> 00:34:02.870 align:middle line:84% The Savior's Redemption and Resurrection 00:34:02.870 --> 00:34:05.400 align:middle line:84% bring us back into the presence of the Father, 00:34:05.400 --> 00:34:08.719 align:middle line:84% where we will be judged by Jesus Christ. 00:34:08.719 --> 00:34:12.219 align:middle line:84% Those who rely upon "the merits, and mercy, and grace 00:34:12.219 --> 00:34:15.850 align:middle line:84% of the Holy Messiah" will receive glorified bodies 00:34:15.850 --> 00:34:17.909 align:middle line:84% like the Father and dwell with Him 00:34:17.909 --> 00:34:20.389 align:middle line:84% "in a state of never-ending happiness." 00:34:20.389 --> 00:34:23.540 align:middle line:84% There, the Father will wipe away all our tears 00:34:23.540 --> 00:34:28.260 align:middle line:84% and help us continue on our journey to become like Him. 00:34:28.260 --> 00:34:33.190 align:middle line:84% As you can see, Heavenly Father is always there for us. 00:34:33.190 --> 00:34:35.360 align:middle line:84% To become like the Father, we must 00:34:35.360 --> 00:34:37.260 align:middle line:90% develop His character traits. 00:34:37.260 --> 00:34:39.760 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father's perfections and attributes 00:34:39.760 --> 00:34:41.610 align:middle line:90% include the following: 00:34:41.610 --> 00:34:43.750 align:middle line:84% The Father is "Endless and Eternal." 00:34:43.750 --> 00:34:49.380 align:middle line:84% He is perfectly just, merciful, kind, long-suffering, 00:34:49.380 --> 00:34:52.130 align:middle line:84% and wants only what is best for us. 00:34:52.130 --> 00:34:54.110 align:middle line:90% Heavenly Father is love. 00:34:54.110 --> 00:34:55.400 align:middle line:90% He keeps His covenants. 00:34:55.400 --> 00:34:57.300 align:middle line:90% He does not change. 00:34:57.300 --> 00:34:58.950 align:middle line:90% He cannot lie. 00:34:58.950 --> 00:35:01.590 align:middle line:84% The Father is no respecter of persons. 00:35:01.590 --> 00:35:04.260 align:middle line:84% He knows all things--past, present, 00:35:04.260 --> 00:35:07.290 align:middle line:90% and future--from the beginning. 00:35:07.290 --> 00:35:10.910 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father is more intelligent than us all. 00:35:10.910 --> 00:35:12.940 align:middle line:84% The Father has all power and does 00:35:12.940 --> 00:35:15.590 align:middle line:84% all that He takes into His heart to do. 00:35:15.590 --> 00:35:18.180 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, we can trust in 00:35:18.180 --> 00:35:19.620 align:middle line:90% and rely upon the Father. 00:35:19.620 --> 00:35:22.590 align:middle line:90% 00:35:22.590 --> 00:35:24.530 align:middle line:84% Because He has an eternal perspective, 00:35:24.530 --> 00:35:27.240 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father can see things we cannot. 00:35:27.240 --> 00:35:32.150 align:middle line:84% His joy, work, and glory are to bring to pass our immortality 00:35:32.150 --> 00:35:33.770 align:middle line:90% and exaltation. 00:35:33.770 --> 00:35:36.910 align:middle line:84% Everything He does is for our benefit. 00:35:36.910 --> 00:35:39.480 align:middle line:84% He "wants [our] eternal happiness 00:35:39.480 --> 00:35:41.100 align:middle line:90% even more than [we] do." 00:35:41.100 --> 00:35:43.480 align:middle line:84% And He "would not require [us] to experience 00:35:43.480 --> 00:35:47.070 align:middle line:84% a moment more of difficulty than is absolutely needed 00:35:47.070 --> 00:35:50.680 align:middle line:84% for [our] benefit or for that of those [we] love." 00:35:50.680 --> 00:35:54.400 align:middle line:84% As a result, He focuses on helping us to progress, 00:35:54.400 --> 00:35:57.770 align:middle line:84% not on judging and condemning us. 00:35:57.770 --> 00:36:00.990 align:middle line:84% As spirit sons and daughters of God, each of us 00:36:00.990 --> 00:36:03.440 align:middle line:84% has the potential to become like the Father. 00:36:03.440 --> 00:36:07.240 align:middle line:84% To do so, we must worship the Father in the name of the Son. 00:36:07.240 --> 00:36:10.140 align:middle line:84% We do this by striving to be obedient to the will 00:36:10.140 --> 00:36:12.020 align:middle line:84% of the Father, as the Savior was, 00:36:12.020 --> 00:36:14.360 align:middle line:90% and by continually repenting. 00:36:14.360 --> 00:36:18.190 align:middle line:84% As we do these things, we "receive grace for grace" 00:36:18.190 --> 00:36:20.660 align:middle line:84% until we receive of the Father's fulness 00:36:20.660 --> 00:36:23.320 align:middle line:84% and are endowed with "his character, 00:36:23.320 --> 00:36:26.180 align:middle line:90% perfections, and attributes." 00:36:26.180 --> 00:36:29.190 align:middle line:84% Given the distance between what we are as mortals 00:36:29.190 --> 00:36:31.430 align:middle line:84% and what Heavenly Father has become, 00:36:31.430 --> 00:36:33.940 align:middle line:84% it is not surprising that some feel 00:36:33.940 --> 00:36:36.500 align:middle line:84% that becoming like the Father is unattainable. 00:36:36.500 --> 00:36:39.390 align:middle line:84% Nevertheless, the scriptures are clear. 00:36:39.390 --> 00:36:41.770 align:middle line:84% If we will cleave in faith to Christ, 00:36:41.770 --> 00:36:45.110 align:middle line:84% repent, and seek God's grace through obedience, 00:36:45.110 --> 00:36:48.610 align:middle line:84% eventually we will become like the Father. 00:36:48.610 --> 00:36:51.880 align:middle line:84% I take great comfort in the fact that those 00:36:51.880 --> 00:36:56.450 align:middle line:84% who strive to be obedient will "receive grace for grace" 00:36:56.450 --> 00:37:00.190 align:middle line:84% and ultimately "receive of his fulness." 00:37:00.190 --> 00:37:04.070 align:middle line:84% In other words, we won't become like the Father on our own. 00:37:04.070 --> 00:37:06.370 align:middle line:84% Rather, it will come through gifts of grace, 00:37:06.370 --> 00:37:11.700 align:middle line:84% some big but mostly small, that build upon one another 00:37:11.700 --> 00:37:13.650 align:middle line:90% until we have a fulness. 00:37:13.650 --> 00:37:17.780 align:middle line:84% But brothers and sisters, it will come! 00:37:17.780 --> 00:37:20.150 align:middle line:84% I invite you to trust that Heavenly Father knows how 00:37:20.150 --> 00:37:23.660 align:middle line:84% to exalt you; seek His daily, sustaining help; 00:37:23.660 --> 00:37:26.980 align:middle line:84% and press forward with faith in Christ even when you cannot 00:37:26.980 --> 00:37:28.830 align:middle line:90% feel God's love. 00:37:28.830 --> 00:37:30.870 align:middle line:84% There is much we do not understand 00:37:30.870 --> 00:37:32.800 align:middle line:90% about becoming like the Father. 00:37:32.800 --> 00:37:36.990 align:middle line:84% But I can testify with certainty that striving 00:37:36.990 --> 00:37:40.570 align:middle line:84% to become like the Father is worth every sacrifice. 00:37:40.570 --> 00:37:44.610 align:middle line:84% The sacrifices we make here in mortality, no matter how great, 00:37:44.610 --> 00:37:48.790 align:middle line:84% are simply incomparable to the immeasurable joy, happiness, 00:37:48.790 --> 00:37:51.140 align:middle line:84% and love we will feel in God's presence. 00:37:51.140 --> 00:37:55.110 align:middle line:84% If you are struggling to believe it is worth the sacrifices you 00:37:55.110 --> 00:37:58.270 align:middle line:84% are asked to make, the Savior calls to you, saying, 00:37:58.270 --> 00:38:02.870 align:middle line:84% "Ye have not as yet understood how great blessings the Father 00:38:02.870 --> 00:38:06.750 align:middle line:84% hath ... prepared for you; ... ye cannot bear all things now; 00:38:06.750 --> 00:38:11.080 align:middle line:84% nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along." 00:38:11.080 --> 00:38:14.830 align:middle line:84% I testify that your Heavenly Father loves you and wants 00:38:14.830 --> 00:38:16.090 align:middle line:90% you to live with Him again. 00:38:16.090 --> 00:38:17.960 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:38:17.960 --> 00:38:27.380 align:middle line:90% 00:38:27.380 --> 00:38:30.730 align:middle line:84% My fellow brothers and sisters, recently, 00:38:30.730 --> 00:38:33.140 align:middle line:84% as I was pondering President Nelson's charge 00:38:33.140 --> 00:38:35.520 align:middle line:84% to call the Church by its revealed name, 00:38:35.520 --> 00:38:38.560 align:middle line:84% I turned to where the Savior instructed the Nephites 00:38:38.560 --> 00:38:40.430 align:middle line:90% about the name of the Church. 00:38:40.430 --> 00:38:42.770 align:middle line:84% As I read the Savior's words, I was 00:38:42.770 --> 00:38:47.250 align:middle line:84% struck by how He also told the people that "ye must take 00:38:47.250 --> 00:38:49.390 align:middle line:90% upon you the name of Christ." 00:38:49.390 --> 00:38:52.930 align:middle line:84% This caused me to look at myself and ask, "Am I 00:38:52.930 --> 00:38:55.110 align:middle line:84% taking upon myself the Savior's name 00:38:55.110 --> 00:38:57.260 align:middle line:90% as He would have me do so?" 00:38:57.260 --> 00:39:00.720 align:middle line:84% Today I would like to share some of the impressions 00:39:00.720 --> 00:39:04.200 align:middle line:84% I have received in answer to my question. 00:39:04.200 --> 00:39:07.620 align:middle line:84% First, to take upon ourselves the name of Christ 00:39:07.620 --> 00:39:11.810 align:middle line:84% means we faithfully strive to see as God sees. 00:39:11.810 --> 00:39:13.760 align:middle line:90% How does God see? 00:39:13.760 --> 00:39:18.060 align:middle line:84% Joseph Smith said, "While one portion of the human race 00:39:18.060 --> 00:39:21.800 align:middle line:84% is judging and condemning the other without mercy, 00:39:21.800 --> 00:39:24.110 align:middle line:84% the Great Parent of the universe looks 00:39:24.110 --> 00:39:27.110 align:middle line:84% upon the whole of the human family 00:39:27.110 --> 00:39:31.010 align:middle line:84% with a fatherly care and a paternal regard," 00:39:31.010 --> 00:39:35.090 align:middle line:84% for "His love [is] unfathomable." 00:39:35.090 --> 00:39:38.330 align:middle line:84% A few years ago my older sister passed away. 00:39:38.330 --> 00:39:40.630 align:middle line:90% She had had a challenging life. 00:39:40.630 --> 00:39:43.850 align:middle line:84% She struggled with the gospel and was never really active. 00:39:43.850 --> 00:39:46.100 align:middle line:84% Her husband abandoned their marriage 00:39:46.100 --> 00:39:49.310 align:middle line:84% and left her with four young children to raise. 00:39:49.310 --> 00:39:52.920 align:middle line:84% On the evening of her passing, in a room 00:39:52.920 --> 00:39:55.500 align:middle line:84% with her children present, I gave her a blessing 00:39:55.500 --> 00:39:57.660 align:middle line:90% to peacefully return home. 00:39:57.660 --> 00:40:01.010 align:middle line:84% At that moment I realized I had too often 00:40:01.010 --> 00:40:02.900 align:middle line:84% defined my sister's life in terms 00:40:02.900 --> 00:40:05.660 align:middle line:90% of her trials and inactivity. 00:40:05.660 --> 00:40:08.690 align:middle line:84% As I placed my hands on her head that evening, 00:40:08.690 --> 00:40:11.900 align:middle line:84% I received a severe rebuke from the Spirit. 00:40:11.900 --> 00:40:16.600 align:middle line:84% I was made acutely aware of her goodness and allowed to see her 00:40:16.600 --> 00:40:20.430 align:middle line:84% as God saw her--not as someone who struggled with the gospel 00:40:20.430 --> 00:40:24.780 align:middle line:84% and life, but as someone who had to deal with difficult issues I 00:40:24.780 --> 00:40:26.100 align:middle line:90% did not have. 00:40:26.100 --> 00:40:28.490 align:middle line:84% I saw her as a magnificent mother 00:40:28.490 --> 00:40:31.320 align:middle line:84% who, despite great obstacles, had raised four 00:40:31.320 --> 00:40:33.600 align:middle line:90% beautiful, amazing children. 00:40:33.600 --> 00:40:36.200 align:middle line:84% I saw her as the friend to our mother 00:40:36.200 --> 00:40:40.220 align:middle line:84% who took time to watch over and be a companion to her 00:40:40.220 --> 00:40:43.470 align:middle line:90% after our father passed away. 00:40:43.470 --> 00:40:46.470 align:middle line:84% During that final evening with my sister, 00:40:46.470 --> 00:40:49.770 align:middle line:84% I believe God was asking me, "Can't you 00:40:49.770 --> 00:40:53.800 align:middle line:84% see that everyone around you is a sacred being?" 00:40:53.800 --> 00:40:54.980 align:middle line:90% Brigham Young taught: 00:40:54.980 --> 00:40:56.840 align:middle line:84% "I wish to urge upon the Saints ... 00:40:56.840 --> 00:40:59.360 align:middle line:84% to understand men and women as they are, 00:40:59.360 --> 00:41:02.220 align:middle line:84% and not understand them as you are." 00:41:02.220 --> 00:41:05.390 align:middle line:84% "How often it is said--'Such a person has done wrong, 00:41:05.390 --> 00:41:06.820 align:middle line:90% and he cannot be a Saint.' 00:41:06.820 --> 00:41:07.320 align:middle line:90% ... 00:41:07.320 --> 00:41:10.391 align:middle line:84% We hear some swear and lie ... [or] break the Sabbath. 00:41:10.391 --> 00:41:10.890 align:middle line:90% ... 00:41:10.890 --> 00:41:14.880 align:middle line:84% Do not judge such persons, for you do not know the design 00:41:14.880 --> 00:41:16.440 align:middle line:90% of the Lord concerning them. ... 00:41:16.440 --> 00:41:19.140 align:middle line:90% [Rather,] bear with them." 00:41:19.140 --> 00:41:21.720 align:middle line:84% Can any one of you imagine our Savior 00:41:21.720 --> 00:41:25.060 align:middle line:84% letting you and your burdens go unnoticed by Him? 00:41:25.060 --> 00:41:28.360 align:middle line:84% The Savior looked upon the Samaritan, the adulterer, 00:41:28.360 --> 00:41:31.330 align:middle line:84% the tax collector, the leper, the mentally ill, 00:41:31.330 --> 00:41:33.260 align:middle line:84% and the sinner with the same eyes. 00:41:33.260 --> 00:41:37.520 align:middle line:84% All were children of His Father; all were redeemable. 00:41:37.520 --> 00:41:39.800 align:middle line:84% Can you imagine Him turning away from someone 00:41:39.800 --> 00:41:42.660 align:middle line:84% with doubts about their place in God's kingdom 00:41:42.660 --> 00:41:45.390 align:middle line:84% or from anyone afflicted in any manner? 00:41:45.390 --> 00:41:47.010 align:middle line:90% I cannot. 00:41:47.010 --> 00:41:50.740 align:middle line:84% In the eyes of Christ, each soul is of infinite worth. 00:41:50.740 --> 00:41:53.110 align:middle line:90% No one is preordained to fail. 00:41:53.110 --> 00:41:56.620 align:middle line:84% Eternal life is possible for all. 00:41:56.620 --> 00:41:59.420 align:middle line:84% From the Spirit's rebuke at my sister's bedside, 00:41:59.420 --> 00:42:04.220 align:middle line:84% I learned a great lesson: that as we see as He sees, 00:42:04.220 --> 00:42:07.720 align:middle line:84% ours will be a double victory--redemption of those we 00:42:07.720 --> 00:42:11.830 align:middle line:84% touch and redemption of ourselves. 00:42:11.830 --> 00:42:14.470 align:middle line:84% Second, to take upon ourselves the name of Christ, 00:42:14.470 --> 00:42:18.160 align:middle line:84% we must not only see as God sees, but we must do His work 00:42:18.160 --> 00:42:19.700 align:middle line:90% and serve as He served. 00:42:19.700 --> 00:42:22.120 align:middle line:84% We live the two great commandments, 00:42:22.120 --> 00:42:25.040 align:middle line:84% submit to God's will, gather Israel, and let 00:42:25.040 --> 00:42:26.940 align:middle line:90% our light "shine before men." 00:42:26.940 --> 00:42:30.640 align:middle line:84% We receive and live the covenants and ordinances 00:42:30.640 --> 00:42:32.430 align:middle line:90% of His restored Church. 00:42:32.430 --> 00:42:35.160 align:middle line:84% As we do this, God endows us with power 00:42:35.160 --> 00:42:37.740 align:middle line:84% to bless ourselves, our families, 00:42:37.740 --> 00:42:39.810 align:middle line:90% and the lives of others. 00:42:39.810 --> 00:42:43.260 align:middle line:84% Ask yourself, "Do I know anyone who 00:42:43.260 --> 00:42:46.540 align:middle line:84% does not need the powers of heaven in their lives?" 00:42:46.540 --> 00:42:50.520 align:middle line:84% God will work wonders among us as we sanctify ourselves. 00:42:50.520 --> 00:42:53.820 align:middle line:84% We sanctify ourselves by purifying our hearts. 00:42:53.820 --> 00:42:58.510 align:middle line:84% We purify our hearts as we hear Him, repent of our sins, 00:42:58.510 --> 00:43:01.600 align:middle line:84% become converted, and love as He loves. 00:43:01.600 --> 00:43:06.270 align:middle line:84% The Savior asked us, "For if ye love them which love you, 00:43:06.270 --> 00:43:09.260 align:middle line:90% what reward have ye?" 00:43:09.260 --> 00:43:11.030 align:middle line:84% I recently learned about an experience 00:43:11.030 --> 00:43:14.150 align:middle line:84% in the life of Elder James E. Talmage that caused me to pause 00:43:14.150 --> 00:43:17.180 align:middle line:84% and consider how I love and serve those around me. 00:43:17.180 --> 00:43:19.950 align:middle line:84% As a young professor, before he ever 00:43:19.950 --> 00:43:22.730 align:middle line:84% became an Apostle and in the height of the deadly diphtheria 00:43:22.730 --> 00:43:26.930 align:middle line:84% epidemic of 1892, Elder Talmage discovered a family 00:43:26.930 --> 00:43:30.560 align:middle line:84% of strangers, not members of the Church, who lived near him 00:43:30.560 --> 00:43:32.750 align:middle line:84% that were stricken by the disease. 00:43:32.750 --> 00:43:35.260 align:middle line:84% No one wanted to put themselves at risk 00:43:35.260 --> 00:43:37.570 align:middle line:84% by going inside the infected home. 00:43:37.570 --> 00:43:40.190 align:middle line:84% Elder Talmage, however, immediately proceeded 00:43:40.190 --> 00:43:41.070 align:middle line:90% to the home. 00:43:41.070 --> 00:43:44.540 align:middle line:84% He found four children: a 2-and-1/2-year-old dead 00:43:44.540 --> 00:43:48.510 align:middle line:84% on the floor, a 5-year-old and 10-year-old in great pain, 00:43:48.510 --> 00:43:50.400 align:middle line:90% and a weakened 13-year-old. 00:43:50.400 --> 00:43:54.020 align:middle line:84% The parents were suffering with grief and fatigue. 00:43:54.020 --> 00:43:56.600 align:middle line:84% Elder Talmage dressed the dead and the living, 00:43:56.600 --> 00:43:59.970 align:middle line:84% swept the rooms, carried out the soiled clothing, 00:43:59.970 --> 00:44:03.040 align:middle line:84% and burned filthy rags covered with the disease. 00:44:03.040 --> 00:44:06.970 align:middle line:84% He worked all day and then returned the next morning. 00:44:06.970 --> 00:44:09.850 align:middle line:84% The 10-year-old died during the night. 00:44:09.850 --> 00:44:12.300 align:middle line:84% He lifted and held the 5-year-old. 00:44:12.300 --> 00:44:15.910 align:middle line:84% She coughed bloody mucus all over his face and clothes. 00:44:15.910 --> 00:44:18.920 align:middle line:84% He wrote, "I could not put her from me," 00:44:18.920 --> 00:44:22.040 align:middle line:84% and he held her until she died in his arms. 00:44:22.040 --> 00:44:24.590 align:middle line:84% He helped bury all three children 00:44:24.590 --> 00:44:26.420 align:middle line:84% and arranged for food and clean clothing 00:44:26.420 --> 00:44:27.950 align:middle line:90% for the grieving family. 00:44:27.950 --> 00:44:31.390 align:middle line:84% Upon returning home, Brother Talmage disposed 00:44:31.390 --> 00:44:34.500 align:middle line:84% of his clothes, bathed in a zinc solution, 00:44:34.500 --> 00:44:36.980 align:middle line:84% quarantined himself from his family, 00:44:36.980 --> 00:44:41.790 align:middle line:84% and suffered through a mild attack of the disease. 00:44:41.790 --> 00:44:45.830 align:middle line:84% So many lives around us are at stake. 00:44:45.830 --> 00:44:49.240 align:middle line:84% Saints take the Savior's name upon themselves by becoming 00:44:49.240 --> 00:44:54.260 align:middle line:84% holy and ministering to all, regardless of where or how they 00:44:54.260 --> 00:44:58.240 align:middle line:84% stand--lives are saved as we do so. 00:44:58.240 --> 00:45:01.900 align:middle line:84% Finally, I believe that to take upon ourselves His name, 00:45:01.900 --> 00:45:03.520 align:middle line:90% we must trust Him. 00:45:03.520 --> 00:45:06.550 align:middle line:84% At a meeting I attended one Sunday, a young woman asked 00:45:06.550 --> 00:45:09.580 align:middle line:84% something like the following: "My boyfriend 00:45:09.580 --> 00:45:12.930 align:middle line:84% and I recently broke up, and he chose to leave the Church. 00:45:12.930 --> 00:45:15.810 align:middle line:84% He tells me he has never been happier. 00:45:15.810 --> 00:45:18.167 align:middle line:90% How can this be?" 00:45:18.167 --> 00:45:19.750 align:middle line:84% The Savior answered this question when 00:45:19.750 --> 00:45:22.760 align:middle line:84% He said to the Nephites, "But if [your life is] 00:45:22.760 --> 00:45:26.770 align:middle line:84% not built upon my gospel, and is built upon the works of men, 00:45:26.770 --> 00:45:30.030 align:middle line:84% or upon the works of the devil, verily I 00:45:30.030 --> 00:45:33.860 align:middle line:84% say unto you [you will] have joy in [your] works for a season, 00:45:33.860 --> 00:45:36.870 align:middle line:90% and by and by the end cometh." 00:45:36.870 --> 00:45:41.050 align:middle line:84% There simply is no enduring joy outside the gospel 00:45:41.050 --> 00:45:43.320 align:middle line:90% of Jesus Christ. 00:45:43.320 --> 00:45:45.330 align:middle line:84% At that meeting, however, I thought 00:45:45.330 --> 00:45:47.400 align:middle line:84% about the many good people I know 00:45:47.400 --> 00:45:50.120 align:middle line:84% who struggle with great burdens and commandments that 00:45:50.120 --> 00:45:52.280 align:middle line:90% are daunting at best for them. 00:45:52.280 --> 00:45:55.950 align:middle line:84% I asked myself, "What else might the Savior say to them?" 00:45:55.950 --> 00:46:00.390 align:middle line:84% I believe He would ask, "Do you trust me?" 00:46:00.390 --> 00:46:03.390 align:middle line:84% To the woman with the issue of blood, He said, 00:46:03.390 --> 00:46:07.410 align:middle line:84% "Thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace." 00:46:07.410 --> 00:46:11.010 align:middle line:84% One of my favorite scriptures is John 4:4, which reads, 00:46:11.010 --> 00:46:14.490 align:middle line:84% "And he must needs go through Samaria." 00:46:14.490 --> 00:46:15.930 align:middle line:90% Why do I love that scripture? 00:46:15.930 --> 00:46:18.800 align:middle line:84% Because Jesus did not need to go to Samaria. 00:46:18.800 --> 00:46:21.960 align:middle line:84% The Jews of His day despised the Samaritans 00:46:21.960 --> 00:46:24.340 align:middle line:84% and traveled a road around Samaria. 00:46:24.340 --> 00:46:27.050 align:middle line:84% But Jesus chose to go there to declare 00:46:27.050 --> 00:46:29.960 align:middle line:84% before all people for the first time 00:46:29.960 --> 00:46:31.860 align:middle line:84% that He was the promised Messiah. 00:46:31.860 --> 00:46:36.440 align:middle line:84% For this message He not only chose an outcast group, 00:46:36.440 --> 00:46:40.290 align:middle line:84% but also a woman--and not just any woman but a woman living 00:46:40.290 --> 00:46:44.640 align:middle line:84% in sin--someone considered at that time to be the least 00:46:44.640 --> 00:46:45.950 align:middle line:90% of the least. 00:46:45.950 --> 00:46:49.460 align:middle line:84% I believe Jesus did this so that each of us 00:46:49.460 --> 00:46:53.760 align:middle line:84% may always understand that His love is greater than our fears, 00:46:53.760 --> 00:46:58.700 align:middle line:84% our wounds, our addictions, our doubts, our temptations, 00:46:58.700 --> 00:47:03.620 align:middle line:84% our sins, our broken families, our depression and anxieties, 00:47:03.620 --> 00:47:07.830 align:middle line:84% our chronic illness, our poverty, our abuse, 00:47:07.830 --> 00:47:10.590 align:middle line:90% our despair, and our loneliness. 00:47:10.590 --> 00:47:13.410 align:middle line:84% He wants all to know there is nothing 00:47:13.410 --> 00:47:19.390 align:middle line:84% and no one He is unable to heal and deliver to enduring joy. 00:47:19.390 --> 00:47:21.160 align:middle line:90% His grace is sufficient. 00:47:21.160 --> 00:47:23.770 align:middle line:84% He alone descended below all things. 00:47:23.770 --> 00:47:26.030 align:middle line:84% The power of His Atonement is the power 00:47:26.030 --> 00:47:28.720 align:middle line:84% to overcome any burden in our life. 00:47:28.720 --> 00:47:30.950 align:middle line:84% The message of the woman at the well 00:47:30.950 --> 00:47:33.560 align:middle line:84% is that He knows our life situations 00:47:33.560 --> 00:47:37.070 align:middle line:84% and that we can always walk with Him no matter where we stand. 00:47:37.070 --> 00:47:41.530 align:middle line:84% To her and to each of us He says, "Whosoever drinketh 00:47:41.530 --> 00:47:44.480 align:middle line:84% of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; 00:47:44.480 --> 00:47:47.040 align:middle line:84% but [shall have] a well of water springing up 00:47:47.040 --> 00:47:49.840 align:middle line:90% into everlasting life." 00:47:49.840 --> 00:47:53.640 align:middle line:84% In any of life's travels, why would you ever turn away 00:47:53.640 --> 00:47:58.230 align:middle line:84% from the only Savior who has all power to heal and deliver you? 00:47:58.230 --> 00:48:02.680 align:middle line:84% Whatever the price you must pay to trust Him, it's worth it. 00:48:02.680 --> 00:48:05.230 align:middle line:84% My brothers and sisters, let us choose 00:48:05.230 --> 00:48:08.250 align:middle line:84% to increase our faith in Heavenly Father and our Savior, 00:48:08.250 --> 00:48:10.780 align:middle line:90% Jesus Christ. 00:48:10.780 --> 00:48:12.320 align:middle line:84% From the very depths of my soul, I 00:48:12.320 --> 00:48:14.910 align:middle line:84% bear testimony that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 00:48:14.910 --> 00:48:19.090 align:middle line:84% Saints is the Savior's Church, directed by the living 00:48:19.090 --> 00:48:20.850 align:middle line:90% Christ through a true prophet. 00:48:20.850 --> 00:48:24.390 align:middle line:84% My prayer is that we will faithfully take upon ourselves 00:48:24.390 --> 00:48:27.940 align:middle line:84% the name of Jesus Christ--by seeing as He sees, 00:48:27.940 --> 00:48:31.930 align:middle line:84% by serving as He served, and by trusting that His grace is 00:48:31.930 --> 00:48:35.260 align:middle line:84% sufficient to deliver us home and to enduring joy. 00:48:35.260 --> 00:48:37.560 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:48:37.560 --> 00:48:49.710 align:middle line:90% 00:48:49.710 --> 00:48:52.180 align:middle line:84% A few months into his mission, our youngest son 00:48:52.180 --> 00:48:55.210 align:middle line:84% and his missionary companion were completing their study 00:48:55.210 --> 00:48:58.260 align:middle line:84% when our son felt a dull pain in his head. 00:48:58.260 --> 00:49:01.220 align:middle line:84% He felt very strange; at first he 00:49:01.220 --> 00:49:04.730 align:middle line:84% lost control of his left arm; then his tongue went numb. 00:49:04.730 --> 00:49:07.490 align:middle line:84% The left side of his face began to droop. 00:49:07.490 --> 00:49:09.430 align:middle line:90% He had difficulty speaking. 00:49:09.430 --> 00:49:11.270 align:middle line:90% He knew something was wrong. 00:49:11.270 --> 00:49:13.070 align:middle line:84% What he didn't know was that he was 00:49:13.070 --> 00:49:15.040 align:middle line:84% in the middle of a massive stroke in three 00:49:15.040 --> 00:49:16.680 align:middle line:90% areas of his brain. 00:49:16.680 --> 00:49:20.740 align:middle line:84% Fear began to set in as he became partially paralyzed. 00:49:20.740 --> 00:49:23.450 align:middle line:84% How quickly a stroke victim receives care 00:49:23.450 --> 00:49:26.430 align:middle line:84% can have a dramatic effect on the extent of his healing. 00:49:26.430 --> 00:49:30.140 align:middle line:84% His faithful missionary companion acted decisively. 00:49:30.140 --> 00:49:33.930 align:middle line:84% After calling 911, he gave him a blessing. 00:49:33.930 --> 00:49:38.810 align:middle line:84% Miraculously, the ambulance was only five minutes away. 00:49:38.810 --> 00:49:40.900 align:middle line:84% After our son was rushed to the hospital, 00:49:40.900 --> 00:49:44.120 align:middle line:84% the medical personnel quickly assessed the situation 00:49:44.120 --> 00:49:46.420 align:middle line:84% and determined they should administer a medicine 00:49:46.420 --> 00:49:47.990 align:middle line:84% to our son that could potentially 00:49:47.990 --> 00:49:51.380 align:middle line:84% reverse the stroke's paralyzing effects over time. 00:49:51.380 --> 00:49:54.200 align:middle line:84% However, if our son was not having a stroke, 00:49:54.200 --> 00:49:56.310 align:middle line:84% the medicine could have severe consequences, 00:49:56.310 --> 00:49:58.100 align:middle line:90% such as bleeding in the brain. 00:49:58.100 --> 00:50:00.400 align:middle line:90% Our son had to choose. 00:50:00.400 --> 00:50:03.330 align:middle line:84% He chose to accept the medication. 00:50:03.330 --> 00:50:06.510 align:middle line:84% While full recovery required more operations 00:50:06.510 --> 00:50:09.000 align:middle line:84% and many months, our son eventually 00:50:09.000 --> 00:50:10.800 align:middle line:84% returned and completed his mission 00:50:10.800 --> 00:50:16.040 align:middle line:84% after the effects of the stroke were substantially reversed. 00:50:16.040 --> 00:50:18.770 align:middle line:84% Our Heavenly Father is all-powerful and all-knowing. 00:50:18.770 --> 00:50:20.960 align:middle line:90% He knows our physical struggles. 00:50:20.960 --> 00:50:22.750 align:middle line:84% He is aware of our physical pains 00:50:22.750 --> 00:50:28.110 align:middle line:84% due to illness, disease, aging, accidents, or birth disorders. 00:50:28.110 --> 00:50:30.830 align:middle line:84% He is aware of emotional struggles associated 00:50:30.830 --> 00:50:35.660 align:middle line:84% with anxiety, loneliness, depression, or mental illness. 00:50:35.660 --> 00:50:38.760 align:middle line:84% He knows each person who has suffered injustice 00:50:38.760 --> 00:50:40.640 align:middle line:90% or who has been abused. 00:50:40.640 --> 00:50:43.710 align:middle line:84% He knows our weaknesses and the propensities 00:50:43.710 --> 00:50:46.790 align:middle line:84% and temptations we struggle with. 00:50:46.790 --> 00:50:48.960 align:middle line:84% During mortality we are tested to see if we 00:50:48.960 --> 00:50:50.850 align:middle line:90% will choose good over evil. 00:50:50.850 --> 00:50:52.964 align:middle line:84% For those who keep His commandments, 00:50:52.964 --> 00:50:54.380 align:middle line:84% they will live with Him in a state 00:50:54.380 --> 00:50:56.210 align:middle line:90% of never-ending happiness. 00:50:56.210 --> 00:50:59.140 align:middle line:84% To help us in our progression to become like Him, 00:50:59.140 --> 00:51:01.700 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father has given all power and knowledge 00:51:01.700 --> 00:51:03.880 align:middle line:90% to His Son, Jesus Christ. 00:51:03.880 --> 00:51:08.120 align:middle line:84% There is no physical, emotional, or spiritual ailment that 00:51:08.120 --> 00:51:10.942 align:middle line:90% Christ cannot heal. 00:51:10.942 --> 00:51:12.650 align:middle line:84% During the mortal ministry of the Savior, 00:51:12.650 --> 00:51:15.040 align:middle line:84% the scriptures recount many miraculous events 00:51:15.040 --> 00:51:17.970 align:middle line:84% where Jesus Christ used His divine power to heal 00:51:17.970 --> 00:51:21.010 align:middle line:90% those who suffered physically. 00:51:21.010 --> 00:51:22.840 align:middle line:84% The Gospel of John recounts the story 00:51:22.840 --> 00:51:25.460 align:middle line:84% of a certain man who had endured a debilitating 00:51:25.460 --> 00:51:28.600 align:middle line:90% infirmity for 38 years. 00:51:28.600 --> 00:51:30.310 align:middle line:84% "When Jesus saw him lie, and knew 00:51:30.310 --> 00:51:32.780 align:middle line:84% that he had been now a long time in that case, 00:51:32.780 --> 00:51:38.000 align:middle line:84% he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?" 00:51:38.000 --> 00:51:39.720 align:middle line:84% The impotent man responded that no one 00:51:39.720 --> 00:51:42.740 align:middle line:84% was around to help him when he needed it most. 00:51:42.740 --> 00:51:47.790 align:middle line:84% "Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed and walk. 00:51:47.790 --> 00:51:50.550 align:middle line:84% "And immediately the man was made whole, 00:51:50.550 --> 00:51:53.180 align:middle line:84% and took up his bed, and walked." 00:51:53.180 --> 00:51:56.080 align:middle line:84% Please note the juxtaposition of how long this man suffered 00:51:56.080 --> 00:52:00.860 align:middle line:84% on his own--38 years--and how quickly the healing came once 00:52:00.860 --> 00:52:02.660 align:middle line:90% the Savior became involved. 00:52:02.660 --> 00:52:06.200 align:middle line:90% The healing was immediate. 00:52:06.200 --> 00:52:08.650 align:middle line:84% In another instance, a woman with an issue of blood 12 00:52:08.650 --> 00:52:11.530 align:middle line:84% years, who "had spent all [of] her living upon physicians, ... 00:52:11.530 --> 00:52:14.530 align:middle line:84% came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: 00:52:14.530 --> 00:52:17.240 align:middle line:84% and immediately her issue of blood [ceased]. 00:52:17.240 --> 00:52:18.060 align:middle line:90% ... 00:52:18.060 --> 00:52:20.860 align:middle line:84% "And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: 00:52:20.860 --> 00:52:24.450 align:middle line:84% for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. 00:52:24.450 --> 00:52:27.250 align:middle line:84% And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she ... 00:52:27.250 --> 00:52:29.260 align:middle line:84% declared unto him before all the people ... 00:52:29.260 --> 00:52:33.250 align:middle line:90% how she was healed immediately." 00:52:33.250 --> 00:52:34.750 align:middle line:84% Through His ministry, Christ taught 00:52:34.750 --> 00:52:37.410 align:middle line:84% that He had power over the physical body. 00:52:37.410 --> 00:52:41.150 align:middle line:84% We cannot control the timing of when Christ's healing 00:52:41.150 --> 00:52:43.570 align:middle line:84% of our physical ailments will occur. 00:52:43.570 --> 00:52:48.510 align:middle line:84% Healing occurs according to His will and wisdom. 00:52:48.510 --> 00:52:52.170 align:middle line:84% In the scriptures, some suffered for decades; others, 00:52:52.170 --> 00:52:54.050 align:middle line:90% their entire mortal lives. 00:52:54.050 --> 00:52:57.250 align:middle line:84% Mortal infirmities can refine us and deepen our reliance 00:52:57.250 --> 00:52:58.570 align:middle line:90% upon God. 00:52:58.570 --> 00:53:01.350 align:middle line:84% But when we allow Christ to be involved, 00:53:01.350 --> 00:53:04.530 align:middle line:84% He will always strengthen us spiritually so 00:53:04.530 --> 00:53:08.660 align:middle line:84% we can have greater capacity to endure our burdens. 00:53:08.660 --> 00:53:11.910 align:middle line:84% Ultimately, we know that every physical ailment, malady, 00:53:11.910 --> 00:53:14.850 align:middle line:84% or imperfection will be healed in the Resurrection. 00:53:14.850 --> 00:53:17.870 align:middle line:84% That is a gift to all mankind through the Atonement 00:53:17.870 --> 00:53:19.990 align:middle line:90% of Jesus Christ. 00:53:19.990 --> 00:53:22.820 align:middle line:84% Jesus Christ can heal more than just our physical bodies. 00:53:22.820 --> 00:53:25.120 align:middle line:90% He can heal our spirits as well. 00:53:25.120 --> 00:53:27.300 align:middle line:84% Throughout scripture we learn how 00:53:27.300 --> 00:53:29.560 align:middle line:84% Christ helped those whose spirits were weak 00:53:29.560 --> 00:53:31.110 align:middle line:90% and made them whole. 00:53:31.110 --> 00:53:34.520 align:middle line:84% As we ponder these experiences, our hope and faith 00:53:34.520 --> 00:53:37.640 align:middle line:84% in the Savior's power to bless our lives increases. 00:53:37.640 --> 00:53:40.890 align:middle line:84% Jesus Christ can change our hearts, 00:53:40.890 --> 00:53:44.310 align:middle line:84% heal us from the effects of injustice or abuse 00:53:44.310 --> 00:53:47.430 align:middle line:84% we may experience, and strengthen our capacity 00:53:47.430 --> 00:53:49.990 align:middle line:84% to bear loss and heartache, bringing us 00:53:49.990 --> 00:53:52.880 align:middle line:84% peace to help us endure the trials of our lives, 00:53:52.880 --> 00:53:55.880 align:middle line:90% healing us emotionally. 00:53:55.880 --> 00:53:58.330 align:middle line:84% Christ can also heal us when we sin. 00:53:58.330 --> 00:54:01.800 align:middle line:84% We sin when we knowingly break one of God's laws. 00:54:01.800 --> 00:54:04.720 align:middle line:84% When we sin, our soul becomes unclean. 00:54:04.720 --> 00:54:08.260 align:middle line:84% No unclean thing can dwell in God's presence. 00:54:08.260 --> 00:54:13.110 align:middle line:84% Becoming clean from sin is to be healed spiritually. 00:54:13.110 --> 00:54:15.900 align:middle line:84% God the Father knows we will sin, 00:54:15.900 --> 00:54:18.950 align:middle line:84% but He has prepared a way for us to be redeemed. 00:54:18.950 --> 00:54:22.070 align:middle line:84% Elder Lynn G. Robbins taught: "Repentance 00:54:22.070 --> 00:54:25.560 align:middle line:84% isn't [God's] backup plan in the event we might fail. 00:54:25.560 --> 00:54:31.370 align:middle line:84% Repentance is His plan, knowing that we will." 00:54:31.370 --> 00:54:33.580 align:middle line:84% When we sin, we have the opportunity 00:54:33.580 --> 00:54:35.720 align:middle line:84% to choose the good from the evil. 00:54:35.720 --> 00:54:39.340 align:middle line:84% We choose the good when we repent after we have sinned. 00:54:39.340 --> 00:54:42.730 align:middle line:84% Through Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice, 00:54:42.730 --> 00:54:47.260 align:middle line:84% we can be redeemed from our sins and brought back 00:54:47.260 --> 00:54:50.330 align:middle line:84% to the presence of God the Father--if we repent. 00:54:50.330 --> 00:54:53.490 align:middle line:84% Spiritual healing is not one-sided; 00:54:53.490 --> 00:54:56.810 align:middle line:84% it requires the Savior's redemptive power and sincere 00:54:56.810 --> 00:54:59.020 align:middle line:84% repentance on the part of the sinner. 00:54:59.020 --> 00:55:01.700 align:middle line:84% For those who choose not to repent, 00:55:01.700 --> 00:55:05.070 align:middle line:84% they are rejecting the healing Christ offers. 00:55:05.070 --> 00:55:10.630 align:middle line:84% For them, it is as though no redemption was made. 00:55:10.630 --> 00:55:12.990 align:middle line:84% As I have counseled with others seeking to repent, 00:55:12.990 --> 00:55:15.400 align:middle line:84% I have marveled that people who were living in sin 00:55:15.400 --> 00:55:18.000 align:middle line:84% had difficulty making correct decisions. 00:55:18.000 --> 00:55:20.730 align:middle line:84% The Holy Ghost would leave them, and they often 00:55:20.730 --> 00:55:24.140 align:middle line:84% struggled to make choices that would bring them closer to God. 00:55:24.140 --> 00:55:26.810 align:middle line:84% They would wrestle for months or even years, 00:55:26.810 --> 00:55:30.640 align:middle line:84% embarrassed or frightened of the consequences of their sins. 00:55:30.640 --> 00:55:34.720 align:middle line:84% Often they felt that they could never change or be forgiven. 00:55:34.720 --> 00:55:37.770 align:middle line:84% I have often heard them share their fear that if their loved 00:55:37.770 --> 00:55:41.530 align:middle line:84% ones knew what they had done, they would stop loving them 00:55:41.530 --> 00:55:42.690 align:middle line:90% or leave them. 00:55:42.690 --> 00:55:45.010 align:middle line:84% When they followed this line of thinking, 00:55:45.010 --> 00:55:48.490 align:middle line:84% they resolved to just keep quiet and delay their repentance. 00:55:48.490 --> 00:55:50.860 align:middle line:84% They incorrectly felt that it was better 00:55:50.860 --> 00:55:53.990 align:middle line:84% not to repent now so that they would not further 00:55:53.990 --> 00:55:55.820 align:middle line:90% hurt those they loved. 00:55:55.820 --> 00:55:59.240 align:middle line:84% In their minds it was better to suffer after this life 00:55:59.240 --> 00:56:02.190 align:middle line:84% than go through the repentance process now. 00:56:02.190 --> 00:56:05.760 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, it is never 00:56:05.760 --> 00:56:08.730 align:middle line:84% a good idea to procrastinate your repentance. 00:56:08.730 --> 00:56:11.650 align:middle line:84% The adversary often uses fear to prevent us 00:56:11.650 --> 00:56:16.590 align:middle line:84% from acting immediately upon our faith in Jesus Christ. 00:56:16.590 --> 00:56:18.550 align:middle line:84% When loved ones are confronted with the truth 00:56:18.550 --> 00:56:23.310 align:middle line:84% about sinful behavior, while they may feel deeply wounded, 00:56:23.310 --> 00:56:26.380 align:middle line:84% they often want to help the sincerely repentant 00:56:26.380 --> 00:56:29.700 align:middle line:84% sinner to change and to reconcile with God. 00:56:29.700 --> 00:56:32.650 align:middle line:84% Indeed, spiritual healing accelerates 00:56:32.650 --> 00:56:34.900 align:middle line:84% when the sinner confesses and is surrounded 00:56:34.900 --> 00:56:38.580 align:middle line:84% by those who love them and help them to forsake their sins. 00:56:38.580 --> 00:56:40.830 align:middle line:84% Please remember that Jesus Christ 00:56:40.830 --> 00:56:44.180 align:middle line:84% is mighty in how He also heals the innocent victims of sin who 00:56:44.180 --> 00:56:46.300 align:middle line:90% turn to Him. 00:56:46.300 --> 00:56:49.360 align:middle line:84% Elder Boyd K. Packer stated: "Our spirits 00:56:49.360 --> 00:56:52.380 align:middle line:84% are damaged when we make mistakes and commit sins. 00:56:52.380 --> 00:56:55.060 align:middle line:84% But unlike the case of our mortal bodies, 00:56:55.060 --> 00:56:57.380 align:middle line:84% when the repentance process is complete, 00:56:57.380 --> 00:57:01.140 align:middle line:84% no scars remain because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. 00:57:01.140 --> 00:57:05.550 align:middle line:84% The promise is: 'Behold, he who has repented of his sins, 00:57:05.550 --> 00:57:11.020 align:middle line:84% the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more.'" 00:57:11.020 --> 00:57:13.600 align:middle line:84% When we repent "with full purpose of heart," 00:57:13.600 --> 00:57:16.480 align:middle line:84% "immediately shall the great plan of redemption 00:57:16.480 --> 00:57:18.460 align:middle line:90% be brought about" in our lives. 00:57:18.460 --> 00:57:22.280 align:middle line:90% The Savior will heal us. 00:57:22.280 --> 00:57:25.110 align:middle line:84% The missionary companion and the medical professionals 00:57:25.110 --> 00:57:27.890 align:middle line:84% who helped our stroke-afflicted son in the mission field 00:57:27.890 --> 00:57:29.220 align:middle line:90% acted quickly. 00:57:29.220 --> 00:57:32.660 align:middle line:84% Our son chose to receive the stroke-reversing medicine. 00:57:32.660 --> 00:57:34.854 align:middle line:84% The paralyzing effects of his stroke 00:57:34.854 --> 00:57:36.770 align:middle line:84% that could have followed him for the remainder 00:57:36.770 --> 00:57:39.240 align:middle line:84% of his mortal life were reversed. 00:57:39.240 --> 00:57:42.670 align:middle line:84% Likewise, the faster we repent and bring 00:57:42.670 --> 00:57:45.140 align:middle line:84% the Atonement of Jesus Christ into our lives, 00:57:45.140 --> 00:57:49.010 align:middle line:84% the sooner we can be healed from the effects of sin. 00:57:49.010 --> 00:57:52.190 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson offered this invitation: 00:57:52.190 --> 00:57:55.300 align:middle line:84% "If you have stepped off the path, ... 00:57:55.300 --> 00:57:57.660 align:middle line:84% I invite you ... to please come back. 00:57:57.660 --> 00:58:01.480 align:middle line:84% Whatever your concerns, whatever your challenges, 00:58:01.480 --> 00:58:04.740 align:middle line:84% there is a place for you in this, the Lord's Church. 00:58:04.740 --> 00:58:09.380 align:middle line:84% You and generations yet unborn will be blessed by your actions 00:58:09.380 --> 00:58:12.950 align:middle line:84% now to return to the covenant path." 00:58:12.950 --> 00:58:14.650 align:middle line:84% Our spiritual healing requires us 00:58:14.650 --> 00:58:16.450 align:middle line:84% to submit ourselves to the conditions 00:58:16.450 --> 00:58:17.910 align:middle line:90% our Savior has outlined. 00:58:17.910 --> 00:58:19.780 align:middle line:90% We must not delay! 00:58:19.780 --> 00:58:21.840 align:middle line:90% We must act today! 00:58:21.840 --> 00:58:24.710 align:middle line:84% Act now so that spiritual paralysis 00:58:24.710 --> 00:58:28.770 align:middle line:84% does not prevent your eternal progression. 00:58:28.770 --> 00:58:31.950 align:middle line:84% While I have been speaking, if you have felt the need 00:58:31.950 --> 00:58:34.540 align:middle line:84% to ask forgiveness of someone you have wronged, 00:58:34.540 --> 00:58:36.730 align:middle line:90% I invite you to act. 00:58:36.730 --> 00:58:38.840 align:middle line:90% Tell them what you have done. 00:58:38.840 --> 00:58:41.310 align:middle line:90% Ask for their forgiveness. 00:58:41.310 --> 00:58:44.980 align:middle line:84% If you have committed a sin that impacts your temple worthiness, 00:58:44.980 --> 00:58:48.390 align:middle line:84% I invite you to counsel with your bishop--today. 00:58:48.390 --> 00:58:51.670 align:middle line:90% Do not delay. 00:58:51.670 --> 00:58:55.260 align:middle line:84% My brothers and sisters, God is our loving Father in Heaven. 00:58:55.260 --> 00:58:57.400 align:middle line:84% He has given all power and knowledge 00:58:57.400 --> 00:58:59.840 align:middle line:84% to His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. 00:58:59.840 --> 00:59:02.260 align:middle line:84% Because of Him, all mankind will one day 00:59:02.260 --> 00:59:05.140 align:middle line:84% be healed of every physical ailment forever. 00:59:05.140 --> 00:59:07.860 align:middle line:84% Because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, 00:59:07.860 --> 00:59:11.330 align:middle line:84% if we choose to repent and turn our hearts fully to the Savior, 00:59:11.330 --> 00:59:13.740 align:middle line:90% He will heal us spiritually. 00:59:13.740 --> 00:59:16.840 align:middle line:84% That healing can begin immediately. 00:59:16.840 --> 00:59:18.680 align:middle line:90% The choice is ours. 00:59:18.680 --> 00:59:21.890 align:middle line:90% Will we be made whole? 00:59:21.890 --> 00:59:24.260 align:middle line:84% I testify that Jesus Christ paid the price 00:59:24.260 --> 00:59:25.840 align:middle line:90% so that we can be made whole. 00:59:25.840 --> 00:59:29.380 align:middle line:84% But we must choose to take that healing medicine He offers. 00:59:29.380 --> 00:59:30.720 align:middle line:90% Take it today. 00:59:30.720 --> 00:59:32.470 align:middle line:90% Do not delay. 00:59:32.470 --> 00:59:34.910 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:59:34.910 --> 00:59:43.450 align:middle line:90% 00:59:43.450 --> 00:59:46.020 align:middle line:84% The congregation will now join the choir 00:59:46.020 --> 00:59:49.310 align:middle line:84% in singing "Glory to God on High." 00:59:49.310 --> 00:59:52.750 align:middle line:84% After the singing, we will hear from Elder Dale G. 00:59:52.750 --> 00:59:55.530 align:middle line:84% Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 00:59:55.530 --> 01:00:00.800 align:middle line:84% He will be followed by Elder Jack N. Gerard of the Seventy. 01:00:00.800 --> 01:00:04.920 align:middle line:84% Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles 01:00:04.920 --> 01:00:06.628 align:middle line:90% will then address us. 01:00:06.628 --> 01:00:11.886 align:middle line:90% 01:00:11.886 --> 01:02:30.038 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "GLORY TO GOD ON HIGH"] 01:02:30.038 --> 01:02:39.190 align:middle line:90% 01:02:39.190 --> 01:02:43.760 align:middle line:84% The fictional character Mary Poppins is a typical English 01:02:43.760 --> 01:02:46.820 align:middle line:84% nanny--who happens to be magical. 01:02:46.820 --> 01:02:50.440 align:middle line:84% She blows in on the east wind to help the troubled Banks 01:02:50.440 --> 01:02:55.090 align:middle line:84% family of Number 17, Cherry Tree Lane, in Edwardian London. 01:02:55.090 --> 01:02:59.400 align:middle line:84% She is given charge of the children, Jane and Michael. 01:02:59.400 --> 01:03:02.210 align:middle line:84% In a firm but kind manner, she begins 01:03:02.210 --> 01:03:07.100 align:middle line:84% to teach them valuable lessons with an enchanting touch. 01:03:07.100 --> 01:03:09.930 align:middle line:84% Jane and Michael make considerable progress, 01:03:09.930 --> 01:03:13.660 align:middle line:84% but Mary decides that it is time for her to move on. 01:03:13.660 --> 01:03:18.990 align:middle line:84% In the stage production, Mary's chimney sweep friend, Bert, 01:03:18.990 --> 01:03:21.720 align:middle line:84% tries to dissuade her from leaving. 01:03:21.720 --> 01:03:26.320 align:middle line:84% He argues, "But they're good kids, Mary." 01:03:26.320 --> 01:03:29.320 align:middle line:84% Mary replies, "Would I be bothering with them if they 01:03:29.320 --> 01:03:30.100 align:middle line:90% weren't? 01:03:30.100 --> 01:03:32.830 align:middle line:84% But I can't help them if they won't let me, 01:03:32.830 --> 01:03:36.530 align:middle line:84% and there's no one so hard to teach as the child who 01:03:36.530 --> 01:03:38.770 align:middle line:90% knows everything." 01:03:38.770 --> 01:03:41.320 align:middle line:90% Bert asks, "So?" 01:03:41.320 --> 01:03:47.590 align:middle line:84% Mary answers, "So they've got to do the next bit on their own." 01:03:47.590 --> 01:03:51.550 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, like Jane and Michael Banks, 01:03:51.550 --> 01:03:55.720 align:middle line:84% we are "good kids" who are worth bothering about. 01:03:55.720 --> 01:03:59.530 align:middle line:84% Our Heavenly Father wants to help and bless us, 01:03:59.530 --> 01:04:01.740 align:middle line:90% but we do not always let Him. 01:04:01.740 --> 01:04:06.860 align:middle line:84% Sometimes we even act as if we already know everything. 01:04:06.860 --> 01:04:11.870 align:middle line:84% And we too need to do "the next bit" on our own. 01:04:11.870 --> 01:04:14.470 align:middle line:84% That is why we came to earth from 01:04:14.470 --> 01:04:16.470 align:middle line:90% a premortal, heavenly home. 01:04:16.470 --> 01:04:21.450 align:middle line:84% Our "bit" involves making choices. 01:04:21.450 --> 01:04:24.220 align:middle line:84% Our Heavenly Father's goal in parenting 01:04:24.220 --> 01:04:27.570 align:middle line:84% is not to have His children do what is right; 01:04:27.570 --> 01:04:33.070 align:middle line:84% it is to have His children choose to do what is right 01:04:33.070 --> 01:04:36.040 align:middle line:90% and ultimately become like Him. 01:04:36.040 --> 01:04:39.340 align:middle line:84% If He simply wanted us to be obedient, 01:04:39.340 --> 01:04:42.170 align:middle line:84% He would use immediate rewards and punishments 01:04:42.170 --> 01:04:45.020 align:middle line:90% to influence our behaviors. 01:04:45.020 --> 01:04:48.350 align:middle line:84% But God is not interested in His children 01:04:48.350 --> 01:04:51.420 align:middle line:84% just becoming trained and obedient "pets" 01:04:51.420 --> 01:04:54.270 align:middle line:84% who won't chew on His slippers in the celestial living room. 01:04:54.270 --> 01:04:58.050 align:middle line:90% 01:04:58.050 --> 01:05:02.410 align:middle line:84% No, God wants His children to grow up spiritually 01:05:02.410 --> 01:05:06.480 align:middle line:84% and join Him in the family business. 01:05:06.480 --> 01:05:09.960 align:middle line:84% God established a plan whereby we can become heirs 01:05:09.960 --> 01:05:12.850 align:middle line:84% in His kingdom, a covenant path that 01:05:12.850 --> 01:05:17.010 align:middle line:84% leads us to become like Him, have the kind of life He has, 01:05:17.010 --> 01:05:20.530 align:middle line:84% and live forever as families in His presence. 01:05:20.530 --> 01:05:25.180 align:middle line:84% Personal choice was--and is--vital to this plan, 01:05:25.180 --> 01:05:28.290 align:middle line:84% which we learned about in our premortal existence. 01:05:28.290 --> 01:05:33.320 align:middle line:84% We accepted the plan and chose to come to earth. 01:05:33.320 --> 01:05:36.700 align:middle line:84% To ensure that we would exercise faith and learn 01:05:36.700 --> 01:05:40.750 align:middle line:84% to use our agency properly, a veil of forgetfulness 01:05:40.750 --> 01:05:45.840 align:middle line:84% was drawn over our minds so we would not remember God's plan. 01:05:45.840 --> 01:05:49.480 align:middle line:84% Without that veil, God's purposes 01:05:49.480 --> 01:05:53.790 align:middle line:84% would not be achieved because we could not progress and become 01:05:53.790 --> 01:05:58.500 align:middle line:84% the trusted inheritors He wants us to be. 01:05:58.500 --> 01:06:02.550 align:middle line:84% The prophet Lehi said: "Wherefore, the Lord God 01:06:02.550 --> 01:06:05.900 align:middle line:84% gave unto man that he should act for himself. 01:06:05.900 --> 01:06:09.730 align:middle line:84% Wherefore, man could not act for himself 01:06:09.730 --> 01:06:11.890 align:middle line:84% save it should be that he was enticed 01:06:11.890 --> 01:06:14.650 align:middle line:90% by the one or the other." 01:06:14.650 --> 01:06:18.280 align:middle line:84% At a fundamental level, one option 01:06:18.280 --> 01:06:22.620 align:middle line:84% is represented by Jesus Christ, the Firstborn of the Father. 01:06:22.620 --> 01:06:27.360 align:middle line:84% The other option is represented by Satan, Lucifer, 01:06:27.360 --> 01:06:31.770 align:middle line:84% who wants to destroy agency and usurp power. 01:06:31.770 --> 01:06:35.690 align:middle line:84% In Jesus Christ "we have an advocate with the Father." 01:06:35.690 --> 01:06:39.260 align:middle line:84% After completing His atoning sacrifice, 01:06:39.260 --> 01:06:43.760 align:middle line:84% Jesus "ascended into heaven ... to claim of the Father his 01:06:43.760 --> 01:06:48.240 align:middle line:84% rights of mercy which he hath upon the children of men." 01:06:48.240 --> 01:06:51.030 align:middle line:84% And, having claimed the rights of mercy, 01:06:51.030 --> 01:06:56.170 align:middle line:84% "he advocateth the cause of the children of men." 01:06:56.170 --> 01:06:59.100 align:middle line:84% Christ's advocacy with the Father in our behalf 01:06:59.100 --> 01:07:01.460 align:middle line:90% is not adversarial. 01:07:01.460 --> 01:07:04.230 align:middle line:84% Jesus Christ, who allowed His will 01:07:04.230 --> 01:07:06.390 align:middle line:84% to be swallowed up in the will of the Father, 01:07:06.390 --> 01:07:09.120 align:middle line:84% would not champion anything other 01:07:09.120 --> 01:07:11.500 align:middle line:84% than what the Father has wanted all along. 01:07:11.500 --> 01:07:14.710 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father undoubtedly cheers for 01:07:14.710 --> 01:07:17.500 align:middle line:90% and applauds our successes. 01:07:17.500 --> 01:07:20.800 align:middle line:84% Christ's advocacy is, at least in part, 01:07:20.800 --> 01:07:24.290 align:middle line:84% to remind us that He has paid for our sins 01:07:24.290 --> 01:07:28.960 align:middle line:84% and that no one is excluded from the reach of God's mercy. 01:07:28.960 --> 01:07:31.930 align:middle line:84% For those who believe in Jesus Christ, 01:07:31.930 --> 01:07:37.080 align:middle line:84% repent and are baptized, and endure to the end--a process 01:07:37.080 --> 01:07:40.140 align:middle line:84% that leads to reconciliation--the Savior 01:07:40.140 --> 01:07:44.310 align:middle line:90% forgives, heals, and advocates. 01:07:44.310 --> 01:07:48.790 align:middle line:84% He is our helper, consoler, and intercessor--attesting 01:07:48.790 --> 01:07:54.910 align:middle line:84% to and vouching for our reconciliation with God. 01:07:54.910 --> 01:08:00.280 align:middle line:84% In stark contrast, Lucifer is an accuser or prosecutor. 01:08:00.280 --> 01:08:04.910 align:middle line:84% John the Revelator described Lucifer's ultimate defeat: 01:08:04.910 --> 01:08:09.310 align:middle line:84% "And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now 01:08:09.310 --> 01:08:13.860 align:middle line:84% is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, 01:08:13.860 --> 01:08:16.310 align:middle line:90% and the power of his Christ." 01:08:16.310 --> 01:08:17.760 align:middle line:90% Why? 01:08:17.760 --> 01:08:22.069 align:middle line:84% Because "the accuser of our brethren is cast down, 01:08:22.069 --> 01:08:25.689 align:middle line:84% which accused them before our God day and night. 01:08:25.689 --> 01:08:29.319 align:middle line:84% And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, 01:08:29.319 --> 01:08:33.170 align:middle line:84% and by the word of their testimony." 01:08:33.170 --> 01:08:35.470 align:middle line:90% Lucifer is this accuser. 01:08:35.470 --> 01:08:38.390 align:middle line:84% He spoke against us in the premortal existence, 01:08:38.390 --> 01:08:41.399 align:middle line:84% and he continues to denounce us in this life. 01:08:41.399 --> 01:08:43.649 align:middle line:90% He seeks to drag us down. 01:08:43.649 --> 01:08:46.740 align:middle line:84% He wants us to experience endless woe. 01:08:46.740 --> 01:08:49.490 align:middle line:84% He is the one who tells us we are not adequate, 01:08:49.490 --> 01:08:51.609 align:middle line:84% the one who tells us we are not good enough, 01:08:51.609 --> 01:08:54.870 align:middle line:84% the one who tells us there is no recovery from a mistake. 01:08:54.870 --> 01:08:57.660 align:middle line:84% He is the ultimate bully, the one 01:08:57.660 --> 01:09:00.450 align:middle line:90% who kicks us when we are down. 01:09:00.450 --> 01:09:04.939 align:middle line:84% If Lucifer were teaching a child to walk and the child stumbled, 01:09:04.939 --> 01:09:07.990 align:middle line:84% he would scream at the child, punish him, 01:09:07.990 --> 01:09:10.390 align:middle line:90% and tell him to quit trying. 01:09:10.390 --> 01:09:13.420 align:middle line:84% Lucifer's ways bring discouragement 01:09:13.420 --> 01:09:18.090 align:middle line:84% and despair--eventually and always. 01:09:18.090 --> 01:09:21.450 align:middle line:84% This father of lies is the ultimate purveyor 01:09:21.450 --> 01:09:26.590 align:middle line:84% of falsehood and cunningly works to deceive and distract us, 01:09:26.590 --> 01:09:29.470 align:middle line:84% "for he seeketh that all men might be 01:09:29.470 --> 01:09:32.930 align:middle line:90% miserable like unto himself." 01:09:32.930 --> 01:09:37.090 align:middle line:84% If Christ were teaching a child to walk and the child stumbled, 01:09:37.090 --> 01:09:41.550 align:middle line:84% He would help the child get up and encourage the next steps. 01:09:41.550 --> 01:09:44.750 align:middle line:84% Christ is the helper and consoler. 01:09:44.750 --> 01:09:51.819 align:middle line:84% His ways bring joy and hope--eventually and always. 01:09:51.819 --> 01:09:54.770 align:middle line:84% God's plan includes directions for us, 01:09:54.770 --> 01:09:57.740 align:middle line:84% referred to in the scriptures as commandments. 01:09:57.740 --> 01:10:02.240 align:middle line:84% These commandments are neither a whimsical set nor an arbitrary 01:10:02.240 --> 01:10:04.850 align:middle line:84% collection of imposed rules meant only 01:10:04.850 --> 01:10:06.720 align:middle line:90% to train us to be obedient. 01:10:06.720 --> 01:10:09.020 align:middle line:84% They are linked to our developing 01:10:09.020 --> 01:10:12.300 align:middle line:84% the attributes of godliness, returning to our Heavenly 01:10:12.300 --> 01:10:15.810 align:middle line:84% Father, and receiving enduring joy. 01:10:15.810 --> 01:10:19.740 align:middle line:84% Obedience to His commandments is not blind; 01:10:19.740 --> 01:10:23.930 align:middle line:84% we knowingly choose God and His pathway home. 01:10:23.930 --> 01:10:28.280 align:middle line:84% The pattern for us is the same as it was for Adam and Eve, 01:10:28.280 --> 01:10:31.060 align:middle line:84% wherein "God gave unto them commandments, 01:10:31.060 --> 01:10:35.360 align:middle line:84% after having made known unto them the plan of redemption." 01:10:35.360 --> 01:10:39.070 align:middle line:84% Though God wants us to be on the covenant path, 01:10:39.070 --> 01:10:43.460 align:middle line:84% He gives us the dignity of choosing. 01:10:43.460 --> 01:10:46.770 align:middle line:84% Indeed, God desires, expects, and directs 01:10:46.770 --> 01:10:50.250 align:middle line:84% that each of His children choose for himself or herself. 01:10:50.250 --> 01:10:52.490 align:middle line:90% He will not force us. 01:10:52.490 --> 01:10:55.860 align:middle line:84% Through the gift of agency, God permits His children 01:10:55.860 --> 01:10:59.910 align:middle line:84% to "to act for themselves and not to be acted upon." 01:10:59.910 --> 01:11:05.210 align:middle line:84% Agency allows us to choose to get on the path, or not. 01:11:05.210 --> 01:11:08.730 align:middle line:90% It allows us to get off, or not. 01:11:08.730 --> 01:11:11.910 align:middle line:84% Just as we cannot be forced to obey, 01:11:11.910 --> 01:11:14.990 align:middle line:90% we cannot be forced to disobey. 01:11:14.990 --> 01:11:17.800 align:middle line:84% No one can, without our cooperation, 01:11:17.800 --> 01:11:19.650 align:middle line:90% take us off the path. 01:11:19.650 --> 01:11:22.510 align:middle line:84% Now, this is not to be confused with those 01:11:22.510 --> 01:11:24.160 align:middle line:90% whose agency is violated. 01:11:24.160 --> 01:11:26.770 align:middle line:84% They are not off the path; they are victims. 01:11:26.770 --> 01:11:29.260 align:middle line:84% They receive God's understanding, love, 01:11:29.260 --> 01:11:31.100 align:middle line:90% and compassion. 01:11:31.100 --> 01:11:33.590 align:middle line:84% But when we get off the path, God 01:11:33.590 --> 01:11:39.220 align:middle line:84% is saddened because He knows this eventually but invariably 01:11:39.220 --> 01:11:43.270 align:middle line:84% leads to diminished happiness and forfeited blessings. 01:11:43.270 --> 01:11:48.410 align:middle line:84% In the scriptures, getting off the path is referred to as sin, 01:11:48.410 --> 01:11:51.990 align:middle line:84% and the resultant decrease in happiness and forfeited 01:11:51.990 --> 01:11:55.090 align:middle line:90% blessings is called punishment. 01:11:55.090 --> 01:11:58.720 align:middle line:84% In this sense, God is not punishing us; 01:11:58.720 --> 01:12:04.590 align:middle line:84% punishment is a consequence of our own choices, not His. 01:12:04.590 --> 01:12:08.920 align:middle line:84% When we discover that we are off the path, we can stay off, 01:12:08.920 --> 01:12:11.780 align:middle line:84% or because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, 01:12:11.780 --> 01:12:15.130 align:middle line:84% we can choose to reverse our steps and get back on. 01:12:15.130 --> 01:12:18.330 align:middle line:84% In the scriptures, the process of deciding 01:12:18.330 --> 01:12:22.900 align:middle line:84% to change and return to the path is referred to as repentance. 01:12:22.900 --> 01:12:26.770 align:middle line:84% Failure to repent means that we choose 01:12:26.770 --> 01:12:31.400 align:middle line:84% to disqualify ourselves from the blessings God desires to give. 01:12:31.400 --> 01:12:34.840 align:middle line:84% If we are "not willing to enjoy that which [we] might have 01:12:34.840 --> 01:12:38.300 align:middle line:84% received," we will "return ... to [our] own place, 01:12:38.300 --> 01:12:41.220 align:middle line:84% to enjoy that which [we] are willing to receive"--our 01:12:41.220 --> 01:12:45.100 align:middle line:90% choice, not God's. 01:12:45.100 --> 01:12:47.470 align:middle line:84% No matter how long we have been off the path 01:12:47.470 --> 01:12:51.590 align:middle line:84% or how far away we have wandered, the moment we decide 01:12:51.590 --> 01:12:54.960 align:middle line:90% to change, God helps us return. 01:12:54.960 --> 01:12:59.840 align:middle line:84% From God's perspective, through sincere repentance and pressing 01:12:59.840 --> 01:13:04.890 align:middle line:84% forward with a steadfastness in Christ, once back on the path, 01:13:04.890 --> 01:13:08.530 align:middle line:84% it will be as if we were never off. 01:13:08.530 --> 01:13:11.910 align:middle line:84% The Savior pays for our sins and frees us 01:13:11.910 --> 01:13:15.360 align:middle line:84% from the looming decrease in happiness and blessings. 01:13:15.360 --> 01:13:19.260 align:middle line:84% This is referred to in the scriptures as forgiveness. 01:13:19.260 --> 01:13:25.220 align:middle line:84% After baptism, all members slip off the path--some of us even 01:13:25.220 --> 01:13:26.300 align:middle line:90% dive off. 01:13:26.300 --> 01:13:30.220 align:middle line:84% Therefore, exercising faith in Jesus Christ, 01:13:30.220 --> 01:13:34.650 align:middle line:84% repenting, receiving help from Him, and being forgiven 01:13:34.650 --> 01:13:40.260 align:middle line:84% are not onetime events but lifelong processes, processes 01:13:40.260 --> 01:13:43.070 align:middle line:84% that are repetitive and iterative. 01:13:43.070 --> 01:13:47.240 align:middle line:84% This is how we "endure to the end." 01:13:47.240 --> 01:13:49.980 align:middle line:84% We need to choose whom we will serve. 01:13:49.980 --> 01:13:52.290 align:middle line:84% The magnitude of our eternal blessings 01:13:52.290 --> 01:13:54.710 align:middle line:84% depends on choosing the living God 01:13:54.710 --> 01:13:57.760 align:middle line:90% and joining Him in His work. 01:13:57.760 --> 01:14:01.200 align:middle line:84% As we strive to "do the next bit" on our own, 01:14:01.200 --> 01:14:05.080 align:middle line:84% we practice using our agency correctly. 01:14:05.080 --> 01:14:09.510 align:middle line:84% As two former Relief Society General Presidents said, 01:14:09.510 --> 01:14:12.990 align:middle line:84% we should not be "babies that need petting and correction all 01:14:12.990 --> 01:14:14.050 align:middle line:90% the time." 01:14:14.050 --> 01:14:18.980 align:middle line:84% No, God wants us to become mature adults who 01:14:18.980 --> 01:14:21.560 align:middle line:90% govern ourselves. 01:14:21.560 --> 01:14:23.680 align:middle line:84% Choosing to follow the Father's plan 01:14:23.680 --> 01:14:28.440 align:middle line:84% is the only way we can become inheritors in His kingdom; 01:14:28.440 --> 01:14:31.150 align:middle line:84% only then can He trust us to not even 01:14:31.150 --> 01:14:34.090 align:middle line:84% ask for that which is contrary to His will. 01:14:34.090 --> 01:14:36.290 align:middle line:84% But we need to remember that "there's 01:14:36.290 --> 01:14:40.620 align:middle line:84% no one so hard to teach as the child who knows everything." 01:14:40.620 --> 01:14:44.880 align:middle line:84% So we need to be willing to be tutored in the Lord's way 01:14:44.880 --> 01:14:47.700 align:middle line:90% by the Lord and His servants. 01:14:47.700 --> 01:14:51.680 align:middle line:84% We can trust that we are beloved children of Heavenly Parents 01:14:51.680 --> 01:14:56.930 align:middle line:84% and worth "bothering about" and be assured that "on our own" 01:14:56.930 --> 01:15:01.330 align:middle line:90% will never mean "alone." 01:15:01.330 --> 01:15:05.940 align:middle line:84% As the Book of Mormon prophet Jacob said, I say with him: 01:15:05.940 --> 01:15:08.120 align:middle line:84% "Therefore, cheer up your hearts, 01:15:08.120 --> 01:15:12.490 align:middle line:84% and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves--to choose 01:15:12.490 --> 01:15:17.090 align:middle line:84% the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life. 01:15:17.090 --> 01:15:20.020 align:middle line:84% "Wherefore, my beloved brethren [and sisters], 01:15:20.020 --> 01:15:22.300 align:middle line:84% reconcile yourselves to the will of God, 01:15:22.300 --> 01:15:25.660 align:middle line:84% and not to the will of the devil ...; and remember, 01:15:25.660 --> 01:15:27.680 align:middle line:84% after ye are reconciled unto God, 01:15:27.680 --> 01:15:31.400 align:middle line:84% that it is only in and through the grace of God that ye are 01:15:31.400 --> 01:15:33.290 align:middle line:90% saved." 01:15:33.290 --> 01:15:37.270 align:middle line:84% So choose faith in Christ; choose repentance; 01:15:37.270 --> 01:15:40.560 align:middle line:84% choose to be baptized and receive the Holy Ghost; 01:15:40.560 --> 01:15:43.120 align:middle line:84% choose to conscientiously prepare for 01:15:43.120 --> 01:15:45.150 align:middle line:84% and worthily partake of the sacrament; 01:15:45.150 --> 01:15:47.700 align:middle line:84% choose to make covenants in the temple; 01:15:47.700 --> 01:15:52.210 align:middle line:84% and choose to serve the living God and His children. 01:15:52.210 --> 01:15:58.770 align:middle line:84% Our choices determine who we are and who we will become. 01:15:58.770 --> 01:16:03.160 align:middle line:84% I conclude with the rest of Jacob's blessing: "Wherefore, 01:16:03.160 --> 01:16:06.450 align:middle line:84% may God raise you from ... everlasting death by the power 01:16:06.450 --> 01:16:10.110 align:middle line:84% of the atonement, that ye may be received into the eternal 01:16:10.110 --> 01:16:11.410 align:middle line:90% kingdom of God." 01:16:11.410 --> 01:16:14.425 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:16:14.425 --> 01:16:26.100 align:middle line:90% 01:16:26.100 --> 01:16:29.810 align:middle line:84% Several years ago, while preparing for a business trip, 01:16:29.810 --> 01:16:32.730 align:middle line:84% I began to experience chest pain. 01:16:32.730 --> 01:16:36.930 align:middle line:84% Out of concern, my wife decided to accompany me. 01:16:36.930 --> 01:16:39.640 align:middle line:84% On the first leg of our flight, the pain 01:16:39.640 --> 01:16:42.600 align:middle line:84% intensified to the point that it was difficult for me 01:16:42.600 --> 01:16:43.760 align:middle line:90% to breathe. 01:16:43.760 --> 01:16:46.850 align:middle line:84% When we landed, we left the airport 01:16:46.850 --> 01:16:50.810 align:middle line:84% and went to the local hospital, where after multiple tests 01:16:50.810 --> 01:16:56.240 align:middle line:84% the attending physician declared us safe to continue our travel. 01:16:56.240 --> 01:16:58.880 align:middle line:84% We returned to the airport and boarded a flight 01:16:58.880 --> 01:17:01.080 align:middle line:90% to our final destination. 01:17:01.080 --> 01:17:05.510 align:middle line:84% As we were descending, the pilot came on the intercom 01:17:05.510 --> 01:17:08.600 align:middle line:90% and asked me to identify myself. 01:17:08.600 --> 01:17:11.910 align:middle line:84% The flight attendant approached, said 01:17:11.910 --> 01:17:15.090 align:middle line:84% they had just received an emergency call, 01:17:15.090 --> 01:17:17.640 align:middle line:84% and told me there was an ambulance waiting 01:17:17.640 --> 01:17:21.750 align:middle line:84% at the airport to take me to the hospital. 01:17:21.750 --> 01:17:23.810 align:middle line:84% We boarded the ambulance and were rushed 01:17:23.810 --> 01:17:25.990 align:middle line:90% to the local emergency room. 01:17:25.990 --> 01:17:31.650 align:middle line:84% There we were met by two anxious doctors who 01:17:31.650 --> 01:17:35.430 align:middle line:84% explained that I had been misdiagnosed 01:17:35.430 --> 01:17:38.580 align:middle line:84% and actually had a serious pulmonary embolism, 01:17:38.580 --> 01:17:41.900 align:middle line:84% or blood clot in my lung, which required 01:17:41.900 --> 01:17:44.280 align:middle line:90% immediate medical attention. 01:17:44.280 --> 01:17:48.290 align:middle line:84% The doctors informed us that many patients do not 01:17:48.290 --> 01:17:50.350 align:middle line:90% survive this condition. 01:17:50.350 --> 01:17:53.870 align:middle line:84% Knowing we were far from home and not 01:17:53.870 --> 01:17:58.110 align:middle line:84% sure if we were prepared for such life-altering events, 01:17:58.110 --> 01:18:02.890 align:middle line:84% the doctors said that if there was anything in our lives 01:18:02.890 --> 01:18:08.070 align:middle line:84% that we needed to consider, now was the time. 01:18:08.070 --> 01:18:10.740 align:middle line:84% I remember well how almost instantaneously, 01:18:10.740 --> 01:18:15.490 align:middle line:84% in that anxious moment, my entire perspective changed. 01:18:15.490 --> 01:18:19.340 align:middle line:84% What seemed so important just moments earlier 01:18:19.340 --> 01:18:21.660 align:middle line:90% was now of little interest. 01:18:21.660 --> 01:18:25.990 align:middle line:84% My mind raced away from the comfort and cares of this life 01:18:25.990 --> 01:18:28.580 align:middle line:84% to an eternal perspective--thoughts 01:18:28.580 --> 01:18:36.520 align:middle line:84% of family, children, my wife, and ultimately an assessment 01:18:36.520 --> 01:18:39.390 align:middle line:90% of my own life. 01:18:39.390 --> 01:18:42.850 align:middle line:84% How were we doing as a family and individually? 01:18:42.850 --> 01:18:46.350 align:middle line:84% Were we living our lives consistent with the covenants 01:18:46.350 --> 01:18:49.940 align:middle line:84% we had made and the Lord's expectations, 01:18:49.940 --> 01:18:54.220 align:middle line:84% or had we perhaps unintentionally allowed 01:18:54.220 --> 01:18:56.990 align:middle line:84% the cares of the world to distract us 01:18:56.990 --> 01:19:00.530 align:middle line:84% from those things which matter most? 01:19:00.530 --> 01:19:04.020 align:middle line:84% I would invite you to consider an important lesson learned 01:19:04.020 --> 01:19:08.590 align:middle line:84% from this experience: to step back from the world 01:19:08.590 --> 01:19:11.140 align:middle line:90% and to assess your life. 01:19:11.140 --> 01:19:15.570 align:middle line:84% Or in the words of the doctor, if there 01:19:15.570 --> 01:19:19.110 align:middle line:84% is anything in your life you need to consider, 01:19:19.110 --> 01:19:22.330 align:middle line:90% now is the time. 01:19:22.330 --> 01:19:24.750 align:middle line:84% We live in a world of information overload, 01:19:24.750 --> 01:19:28.620 align:middle line:84% dominated by ever-increasing distractions that 01:19:28.620 --> 01:19:30.950 align:middle line:84% make it more and more difficult to sort 01:19:30.950 --> 01:19:33.050 align:middle line:84% through the commotion of this life 01:19:33.050 --> 01:19:36.660 align:middle line:84% and focus on things of eternal worth. 01:19:36.660 --> 01:19:39.260 align:middle line:84% Our daily lives are bombarded with 01:19:39.260 --> 01:19:42.010 align:middle line:84% attention-grabbing headlines served up 01:19:42.010 --> 01:19:45.680 align:middle line:84% by rapidly changing technologies. 01:19:45.680 --> 01:19:48.580 align:middle line:84% Unless we take the time to reflect, 01:19:48.580 --> 01:19:53.760 align:middle line:84% we may not realize the impact of this fast-paced environment 01:19:53.760 --> 01:19:57.780 align:middle line:84% on our daily lives and the choices we make. 01:19:57.780 --> 01:20:01.410 align:middle line:84% We may find our lives consumed with bursts 01:20:01.410 --> 01:20:06.200 align:middle line:84% of information packaged in memes, videos, and glaring 01:20:06.200 --> 01:20:07.390 align:middle line:90% headlines. 01:20:07.390 --> 01:20:12.270 align:middle line:84% Although interesting and entertaining, most of these 01:20:12.270 --> 01:20:15.860 align:middle line:84% have little to do with our eternal progress, 01:20:15.860 --> 01:20:22.620 align:middle line:84% and yet they shape the way we view our mortal experience. 01:20:22.620 --> 01:20:25.010 align:middle line:84% These worldly distractions could be likened 01:20:25.010 --> 01:20:27.310 align:middle line:90% to those in Lehi's dream. 01:20:27.310 --> 01:20:31.790 align:middle line:84% As we progress down the covenant path with our hand firmly 01:20:31.790 --> 01:20:35.650 align:middle line:84% affixed on the iron rod, we hear and see 01:20:35.650 --> 01:20:38.720 align:middle line:84% those "mocking and pointing their fingers" 01:20:38.720 --> 01:20:41.380 align:middle line:84% from the great and spacious building. 01:20:41.380 --> 01:20:45.570 align:middle line:84% We may not consciously intend to do so, 01:20:45.570 --> 01:20:49.930 align:middle line:84% but sometimes we pause and shift our gaze 01:20:49.930 --> 01:20:52.900 align:middle line:84% to see what all the commotion is. 01:20:52.900 --> 01:20:56.090 align:middle line:84% Some of us may even let go of the iron rod 01:20:56.090 --> 01:20:59.390 align:middle line:84% and move closer for a better view. 01:20:59.390 --> 01:21:05.100 align:middle line:84% Others may fall away entirely "because of those 01:21:05.100 --> 01:21:07.950 align:middle line:90% that were scoffing at them." 01:21:07.950 --> 01:21:11.910 align:middle line:84% The Savior cautioned us to "take heed ... 01:21:11.910 --> 01:21:15.980 align:middle line:84% lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with ... 01:21:15.980 --> 01:21:17.930 align:middle line:90% cares of this life." 01:21:17.930 --> 01:21:22.350 align:middle line:84% Modern revelation reminds us that many are called, 01:21:22.350 --> 01:21:24.020 align:middle line:90% but few are chosen. 01:21:24.020 --> 01:21:27.750 align:middle line:84% They are not chosen "because their hearts are set ... 01:21:27.750 --> 01:21:31.650 align:middle line:84% upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors 01:21:31.650 --> 01:21:32.660 align:middle line:90% of men." 01:21:32.660 --> 01:21:35.910 align:middle line:84% Assessing our lives gives us an opportunity 01:21:35.910 --> 01:21:39.070 align:middle line:84% to step back from the world, reflect on 01:21:39.070 --> 01:21:44.010 align:middle line:84% where we stand on the covenant path, and, if necessary, 01:21:44.010 --> 01:21:51.310 align:middle line:84% make adjustments to ensure a firm grip and a forward gaze. 01:21:51.310 --> 01:21:53.690 align:middle line:84% Recently, in a worldwide youth devotional, 01:21:53.690 --> 01:21:56.940 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson invited the youth 01:21:56.940 --> 01:22:01.260 align:middle line:84% to step back from the world, disengaging from social media 01:22:01.260 --> 01:22:05.507 align:middle line:84% by holding a seven-day fast, and just last evening also 01:22:05.507 --> 01:22:08.900 align:middle line:84% invited the sisters as part of the women's conference. 01:22:08.900 --> 01:22:12.900 align:middle line:84% He then asked them--asked the youth--to notice any 01:22:12.900 --> 01:22:17.910 align:middle line:84% differences in how they feel, what they think, 01:22:17.910 --> 01:22:20.470 align:middle line:90% or even how they think. 01:22:20.470 --> 01:22:24.430 align:middle line:84% He then invited them "to do a thorough life assessment with 01:22:24.430 --> 01:22:28.600 align:middle line:84% the Lord ... to ensure that your feet are firmly planted 01:22:28.600 --> 01:22:30.310 align:middle line:90% on the covenant path." 01:22:30.310 --> 01:22:35.030 align:middle line:84% He encouraged them that if there were things in their lives 01:22:35.030 --> 01:22:41.480 align:middle line:84% that needed changing, "today is the perfect time to change." 01:22:41.480 --> 01:22:44.940 align:middle line:84% In assessing things in our lives that need to change, 01:22:44.940 --> 01:22:48.520 align:middle line:84% we might ask ourselves a practical question: 01:22:48.520 --> 01:22:52.600 align:middle line:84% How do we rise above the distractions of this world 01:22:52.600 --> 01:22:58.190 align:middle line:84% and stay fixed on the vision of eternity before us? 01:22:58.190 --> 01:23:03.160 align:middle line:84% In a 2007 conference address entitled "Good, Better, Best," 01:23:03.160 --> 01:23:05.370 align:middle line:84% President Dallin H. Oaks taught how 01:23:05.370 --> 01:23:09.730 align:middle line:84% to prioritize choices among our many conflicting worldly 01:23:09.730 --> 01:23:10.900 align:middle line:90% demands. 01:23:10.900 --> 01:23:16.800 align:middle line:84% He counseled, "We have to forego some good things in order 01:23:16.800 --> 01:23:21.980 align:middle line:84% to choose others that are better or best because they develop 01:23:21.980 --> 01:23:28.950 align:middle line:84% faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and strengthen our families." 01:23:28.950 --> 01:23:32.610 align:middle line:84% May I suggest that the best things in this life 01:23:32.610 --> 01:23:36.530 align:middle line:84% are centered on Jesus Christ and understanding 01:23:36.530 --> 01:23:41.040 align:middle line:84% the eternal truths of who He is and who we are 01:23:41.040 --> 01:23:44.250 align:middle line:90% in our relationship with Him. 01:23:44.250 --> 01:23:47.120 align:middle line:84% As we seek to know the Savior, we 01:23:47.120 --> 01:23:50.560 align:middle line:84% should not overlook the fundamental truth of who we are 01:23:50.560 --> 01:23:52.360 align:middle line:90% and why we are here. 01:23:52.360 --> 01:23:56.890 align:middle line:84% Amulek reminds us that "this life is the time ... 01:23:56.890 --> 01:24:01.020 align:middle line:84% to prepare to meet God," the time "which is given us 01:24:01.020 --> 01:24:03.130 align:middle line:90% to prepare for eternity." 01:24:03.130 --> 01:24:06.440 align:middle line:84% As the well-known axiom reminds us, 01:24:06.440 --> 01:24:11.360 align:middle line:84% "We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. 01:24:11.360 --> 01:24:17.820 align:middle line:84% We are spiritual beings having a human experience." 01:24:17.820 --> 01:24:19.900 align:middle line:84% Understanding our divine origins is 01:24:19.900 --> 01:24:22.440 align:middle line:84% essential to our eternal progress 01:24:22.440 --> 01:24:25.990 align:middle line:84% and can free us from the distractions of this life. 01:24:25.990 --> 01:24:28.470 align:middle line:90% The Savior taught: 01:24:28.470 --> 01:24:33.010 align:middle line:84% "If ye continue in my word, then [ye are] my disciples indeed; 01:24:33.010 --> 01:24:36.380 align:middle line:84% "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth 01:24:36.380 --> 01:24:38.710 align:middle line:90% [will] make you free." 01:24:38.710 --> 01:24:43.120 align:middle line:84% President Joseph F. Smith proclaimed, "The greatest 01:24:43.120 --> 01:24:46.700 align:middle line:84% achievement mankind can make in this world is 01:24:46.700 --> 01:24:50.390 align:middle line:84% to familiarize themselves with divine truth, 01:24:50.390 --> 01:24:54.930 align:middle line:84% so thoroughly, so perfectly, that the example 01:24:54.930 --> 01:24:58.350 align:middle line:84% or conduct of no creature living in the world 01:24:58.350 --> 01:25:01.960 align:middle line:84% can ever turn them away from the knowledge 01:25:01.960 --> 01:25:03.490 align:middle line:90% that they have obtained." 01:25:03.490 --> 01:25:08.200 align:middle line:84% In the world today, the debate over truth 01:25:08.200 --> 01:25:13.010 align:middle line:84% has reached a fevered pitch, with all sides claiming truth 01:25:13.010 --> 01:25:15.900 align:middle line:84% as if it were a relative concept open 01:25:15.900 --> 01:25:18.140 align:middle line:90% to individual interpretation. 01:25:18.140 --> 01:25:22.030 align:middle line:84% The young boy Joseph Smith found that "so great were 01:25:22.030 --> 01:25:26.210 align:middle line:84% the confusion and strife" in his life that "it was impossible 01:25:26.210 --> 01:25:30.560 align:middle line:84% ... to come to any certain conclusion who was right 01:25:30.560 --> 01:25:32.380 align:middle line:90% and who was wrong." 01:25:32.380 --> 01:25:35.840 align:middle line:84% It was "in the midst of this war of words and tumult 01:25:35.840 --> 01:25:40.300 align:middle line:84% of opinions" that he sought divine guidance 01:25:40.300 --> 01:25:43.120 align:middle line:90% by seeking truth. 01:25:43.120 --> 01:25:45.850 align:middle line:84% In April conference, President Nelson 01:25:45.850 --> 01:25:50.030 align:middle line:84% taught, "If we are to have any hope of sifting through 01:25:50.030 --> 01:25:53.400 align:middle line:84% the myriad of voices and the philosophies of men 01:25:53.400 --> 01:25:57.690 align:middle line:84% that attack truth, we must learn to receive revelation." 01:25:57.690 --> 01:26:00.230 align:middle line:90% 01:26:00.230 --> 01:26:03.960 align:middle line:84% We must learn to rely on the Spirit of Truth, 01:26:03.960 --> 01:26:08.620 align:middle line:84% which "the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, 01:26:08.620 --> 01:26:11.390 align:middle line:90% neither knoweth him." 01:26:11.390 --> 01:26:15.180 align:middle line:84% As this world moves swiftly to alternative realities, 01:26:15.180 --> 01:26:17.830 align:middle line:84% we must remember the words of Jacob 01:26:17.830 --> 01:26:22.710 align:middle line:84% that "the Spirit speaketh the truth and lieth not. 01:26:22.710 --> 01:26:26.740 align:middle line:84% Wherefore, it speaketh of things as they really 01:26:26.740 --> 01:26:30.770 align:middle line:84% are, and of things as they really will be; 01:26:30.770 --> 01:26:35.060 align:middle line:84% wherefore, these things are manifested unto us plainly, 01:26:35.060 --> 01:26:38.390 align:middle line:90% for the salvation of our souls." 01:26:38.390 --> 01:26:42.330 align:middle line:84% As we step back from the world and assess our lives, 01:26:42.330 --> 01:26:46.730 align:middle line:84% now is the time to consider what changes we need to make. 01:26:46.730 --> 01:26:50.060 align:middle line:84% We can take great hope in knowing 01:26:50.060 --> 01:26:55.030 align:middle line:84% that our exemplar, Jesus Christ, has once again led the way. 01:26:55.030 --> 01:26:58.140 align:middle line:84% Prior to His death and Resurrection, 01:26:58.140 --> 01:27:00.920 align:middle line:84% as He was laboring to help those around Him 01:27:00.920 --> 01:27:06.800 align:middle line:84% understand His divine role, He reminded them "that in me ye 01:27:06.800 --> 01:27:08.360 align:middle line:90% might have peace. 01:27:08.360 --> 01:27:11.770 align:middle line:84% In the world ye shall have tribulation: 01:27:11.770 --> 01:27:16.510 align:middle line:84% but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." 01:27:16.510 --> 01:27:21.790 align:middle line:84% Of Him I bear witness in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:27:21.790 --> 01:27:30.670 align:middle line:90% 01:27:30.670 --> 01:27:32.920 align:middle line:84% In a recent conversation with a friend of mine, 01:27:32.920 --> 01:27:36.450 align:middle line:84% he told me that when he was a young, newly baptized member 01:27:36.450 --> 01:27:39.690 align:middle line:84% of the Church, he suddenly felt like somehow he did not 01:27:39.690 --> 01:27:41.590 align:middle line:90% fit in anymore in his ward. 01:27:41.590 --> 01:27:44.830 align:middle line:84% The missionaries who had taught him had been transferred away, 01:27:44.830 --> 01:27:47.240 align:middle line:84% and he felt like he was on the periphery. 01:27:47.240 --> 01:27:50.630 align:middle line:84% Without friends in the ward, he found his old friends, 01:27:50.630 --> 01:27:53.550 align:middle line:84% and with them engaged in activities that took him away 01:27:53.550 --> 01:27:58.050 align:middle line:84% from participating at church--so much so that he began to stray 01:27:58.050 --> 01:27:59.310 align:middle line:90% from the flock. 01:27:59.310 --> 01:28:02.790 align:middle line:84% With tears in his eyes, he described how deeply grateful 01:28:02.790 --> 01:28:07.150 align:middle line:84% he was when a fellow ward member extended a ministering 01:28:07.150 --> 01:28:10.230 align:middle line:84% hand to him and invited him to return 01:28:10.230 --> 01:28:12.280 align:middle line:90% in a warm and inclusive way. 01:28:12.280 --> 01:28:16.360 align:middle line:84% Within months, he was back in the safety of the flock, 01:28:16.360 --> 01:28:19.900 align:middle line:84% strengthening others as well as himself. 01:28:19.900 --> 01:28:22.960 align:middle line:84% Aren't we grateful for the shepherd in Brazil who 01:28:22.960 --> 01:28:27.230 align:middle line:84% sought after this young man, Elder Carlos A. Godoy, 01:28:27.230 --> 01:28:30.900 align:middle line:84% who now sits behind me as a member of the Presidency 01:28:30.900 --> 01:28:32.450 align:middle line:90% of the Seventy? 01:28:32.450 --> 01:28:35.010 align:middle line:84% Isn't it remarkable how such small efforts 01:28:35.010 --> 01:28:38.190 align:middle line:90% can have eternal consequences? 01:28:38.190 --> 01:28:41.530 align:middle line:84% This truth is at the heart of the Church's ministering 01:28:41.530 --> 01:28:42.440 align:middle line:90% efforts. 01:28:42.440 --> 01:28:46.650 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father can take our simple daily efforts 01:28:46.650 --> 01:28:50.350 align:middle line:84% and turn them into something miraculous. 01:28:50.350 --> 01:28:54.100 align:middle line:84% It has only been six months since President Russell M. 01:28:54.100 --> 01:28:58.410 align:middle line:84% Nelson announced that "the Lord has made important adjustments 01:28:58.410 --> 01:29:00.260 align:middle line:84% in the way we care for each other," 01:29:00.260 --> 01:29:03.930 align:middle line:84% explaining, "We will implement a newer, 01:29:03.930 --> 01:29:07.400 align:middle line:84% holier approach to caring for and ministering to others. 01:29:07.400 --> 01:29:12.020 align:middle line:84% We will refer to these efforts simply as 'ministering.'" 01:29:12.020 --> 01:29:16.350 align:middle line:84% President Nelson also explained: "A hallmark of the Lord's true 01:29:16.350 --> 01:29:19.590 align:middle line:84% and living Church will always be an organized, 01:29:19.590 --> 01:29:23.650 align:middle line:84% directed effort to minister to individual children of God 01:29:23.650 --> 01:29:24.860 align:middle line:90% and ... families. 01:29:24.860 --> 01:29:29.630 align:middle line:84% Because it is His Church, we as His servants 01:29:29.630 --> 01:29:32.900 align:middle line:84% will minister to the one, just as He did. 01:29:32.900 --> 01:29:37.130 align:middle line:84% We will minister in His name, with His power and authority, 01:29:37.130 --> 01:29:40.870 align:middle line:90% and with His loving-kindness." 01:29:40.870 --> 01:29:42.850 align:middle line:84% Well, since that announcement, your response 01:29:42.850 --> 01:29:44.840 align:middle line:90% has been incredible! 01:29:44.840 --> 01:29:47.590 align:middle line:84% We have received reports of great success 01:29:47.590 --> 01:29:51.560 align:middle line:84% in implementing these changes in nearly every stake in the world 01:29:51.560 --> 01:29:53.910 align:middle line:84% as directed by our living prophet. 01:29:53.910 --> 01:29:57.630 align:middle line:84% For example, ministering brothers and sisters have been 01:29:57.630 --> 01:30:01.720 align:middle line:84% assigned to families, companionships--including young 01:30:01.720 --> 01:30:03.540 align:middle line:84% men and young women--have been organized, 01:30:03.540 --> 01:30:07.230 align:middle line:84% and ministering interviews are taking place. 01:30:07.230 --> 01:30:11.060 align:middle line:84% I don't think it's a coincidence that six months prior 01:30:11.060 --> 01:30:14.030 align:middle line:84% to the revelatory announcement of yesterday, 01:30:14.030 --> 01:30:17.600 align:middle line:84% "a new balance between gospel instruction in the home 01:30:17.600 --> 01:30:21.070 align:middle line:84% and in the church," the revelatory announcement 01:30:21.070 --> 01:30:23.070 align:middle line:90% on "ministering" was given. 01:30:23.070 --> 01:30:28.470 align:middle line:84% Beginning January, as we spend one less hour in our church 01:30:28.470 --> 01:30:32.730 align:middle line:84% worship, all that we have learned in ministering 01:30:32.730 --> 01:30:37.670 align:middle line:84% will help us rebalance that void in a higher 01:30:37.670 --> 01:30:42.200 align:middle line:84% and holier home-centered Sabbath day experience with family 01:30:42.200 --> 01:30:44.110 align:middle line:90% and loved ones. 01:30:44.110 --> 01:30:47.050 align:middle line:84% With these organizational structures in place, 01:30:47.050 --> 01:30:50.030 align:middle line:84% we might ask, how do we know we are 01:30:50.030 --> 01:30:52.120 align:middle line:90% ministering in the Lord's way? 01:30:52.120 --> 01:30:56.730 align:middle line:84% Are we assisting the Good Shepherd in the way He intends? 01:30:56.730 --> 01:31:00.120 align:middle line:84% In a recent discussion with President Henry B. Eyring, 01:31:00.120 --> 01:31:02.880 align:middle line:84% he commended the Saints in adjusting 01:31:02.880 --> 01:31:08.630 align:middle line:84% to these notable changes but also expressed his sincere hope 01:31:08.630 --> 01:31:11.910 align:middle line:84% that members recognize that ministering 01:31:11.910 --> 01:31:15.360 align:middle line:90% is more than "just being nice." 01:31:15.360 --> 01:31:19.280 align:middle line:84% That is not to say that being nice is inconsequential, 01:31:19.280 --> 01:31:22.990 align:middle line:84% but those who understand the true spirit of ministering 01:31:22.990 --> 01:31:27.300 align:middle line:84% realize that it goes far beyond merely being nice. 01:31:27.300 --> 01:31:30.050 align:middle line:84% Done in the Lord's way, ministering 01:31:30.050 --> 01:31:32.410 align:middle line:84% can have a far-reaching influence 01:31:32.410 --> 01:31:36.000 align:middle line:84% for good that ripples throughout all eternity, 01:31:36.000 --> 01:31:39.790 align:middle line:90% as it has for Elder Godoy. 01:31:39.790 --> 01:31:42.850 align:middle line:84% "The Savior showed by example what it means to minister as He 01:31:42.850 --> 01:31:44.730 align:middle line:90% served out of love. ... 01:31:44.730 --> 01:31:46.980 align:middle line:84% He ... taught, prayed for, comforted, 01:31:46.980 --> 01:31:50.660 align:middle line:84% and blessed those around Him, inviting all to follow Him. ... 01:31:50.660 --> 01:31:55.120 align:middle line:84% As Church members minister [in a higher and holier way], 01:31:55.120 --> 01:31:58.700 align:middle line:84% they prayerfully seek to serve as He would--to ... 01:31:58.700 --> 01:32:01.830 align:middle line:84% 'watch over the church always, and be with and strengthen 01:32:01.830 --> 01:32:05.140 align:middle line:84% them,' to 'visit the house of each member,' and help each 01:32:05.140 --> 01:32:06.650 align:middle line:90% become a true disciple of ... 01:32:06.650 --> 01:32:08.180 align:middle line:90% Christ." 01:32:08.180 --> 01:32:11.535 align:middle line:84% Continuing the thread introduced by Sister Cordon this morning, 01:32:11.535 --> 01:32:16.820 align:middle line:84% a true shepherd loves his sheep, knows each one by name, 01:32:16.820 --> 01:32:21.180 align:middle line:84% and "has personal interest in" them. 01:32:21.180 --> 01:32:24.200 align:middle line:84% My friend of many years spent his life as a rancher, 01:32:24.200 --> 01:32:27.990 align:middle line:84% doing the hard work of raising cattle and sheep 01:32:27.990 --> 01:32:30.470 align:middle line:90% in the rugged Rocky Mountains. 01:32:30.470 --> 01:32:33.940 align:middle line:84% He once shared with me the challenges and hazards 01:32:33.940 --> 01:32:36.440 align:middle line:90% associated with raising sheep. 01:32:36.440 --> 01:32:39.720 align:middle line:84% He described that in early spring, when 01:32:39.720 --> 01:32:43.800 align:middle line:84% snow on the expansive mountain range had mostly melted, 01:32:43.800 --> 01:32:48.270 align:middle line:84% he placed the family herd of approximately 2,000 sheep 01:32:48.270 --> 01:32:50.620 align:middle line:90% in the mountains for the summer. 01:32:50.620 --> 01:32:54.530 align:middle line:84% There, he watched over the sheep until late fall, 01:32:54.530 --> 01:32:56.860 align:middle line:84% when they were moved from the summer range 01:32:56.860 --> 01:32:58.820 align:middle line:90% to a winter range in the desert. 01:32:58.820 --> 01:33:04.740 align:middle line:84% He described how tending a large flock of sheep was difficult, 01:33:04.740 --> 01:33:08.860 align:middle line:84% requiring early days and late nights--waking well before 01:33:08.860 --> 01:33:12.100 align:middle line:84% sunrise and finishing long after dark. 01:33:12.100 --> 01:33:15.230 align:middle line:84% He could not possibly do it alone. 01:33:15.230 --> 01:33:17.070 align:middle line:84% Others helped tend the flock, including 01:33:17.070 --> 01:33:21.250 align:middle line:84% a mix of experienced ranch hands assisted by younger hands who 01:33:21.250 --> 01:33:25.280 align:middle line:84% were benefiting from the wisdom of their companions. 01:33:25.280 --> 01:33:29.670 align:middle line:84% He also relied on two old horses, two colts in training, 01:33:29.670 --> 01:33:33.740 align:middle line:84% two old sheepdogs, and two or three sheepdog pups. 01:33:33.740 --> 01:33:37.530 align:middle line:84% Over the course of the summer, my friend and his sheep 01:33:37.530 --> 01:33:42.450 align:middle line:84% faced wind and rainstorms, sickness, injuries, drought, 01:33:42.450 --> 01:33:46.600 align:middle line:84% and just about every other hardship one can imagine. 01:33:46.600 --> 01:33:49.630 align:middle line:84% Some years they had to haul water all summer 01:33:49.630 --> 01:33:51.950 align:middle line:90% just to keep the sheep alive. 01:33:51.950 --> 01:33:56.900 align:middle line:84% Then every year in late fall, when winter weather threatened 01:33:56.900 --> 01:33:59.880 align:middle line:84% and the sheep were taken off the mountain and counted, 01:33:59.880 --> 01:34:05.240 align:middle line:84% there were usually more than 200 that were lost. 01:34:05.240 --> 01:34:07.860 align:middle line:84% The flock of 2,000 sheep placed in the mountains 01:34:07.860 --> 01:34:11.680 align:middle line:84% in early spring was reduced to less than 1,800. 01:34:11.680 --> 01:34:14.290 align:middle line:84% Most of the missing sheep were not 01:34:14.290 --> 01:34:17.150 align:middle line:84% lost to sickness or natural death 01:34:17.150 --> 01:34:22.010 align:middle line:84% but to predators such as mountain lions or coyotes. 01:34:22.010 --> 01:34:24.590 align:middle line:84% These predators usually found the lambs 01:34:24.590 --> 01:34:26.850 align:middle line:84% that had strayed from the safety of the flock, 01:34:26.850 --> 01:34:30.760 align:middle line:84% withdrawing themselves from the protection of their shepherd. 01:34:30.760 --> 01:34:34.330 align:middle line:84% Would you consider for a moment what I have just described, 01:34:34.330 --> 01:34:36.530 align:middle line:90% in a spiritual context? 01:34:36.530 --> 01:34:38.740 align:middle line:90% Who is the shepherd? 01:34:38.740 --> 01:34:40.590 align:middle line:90% Who is the flock? 01:34:40.590 --> 01:34:44.220 align:middle line:84% Who are those who assist the shepherd? 01:34:44.220 --> 01:34:48.610 align:middle line:84% The Lord Jesus Christ Himself said, "I am the good shepherd, 01:34:48.610 --> 01:34:53.410 align:middle line:84% and know my sheep, ... and I lay down my life for the sheep." 01:34:53.410 --> 01:34:55.540 align:middle line:84% The prophet Nephi likewise taught 01:34:55.540 --> 01:34:58.980 align:middle line:84% that Jesus "shall feed his sheep, 01:34:58.980 --> 01:35:02.160 align:middle line:84% and in him they shall find pasture." 01:35:02.160 --> 01:35:07.420 align:middle line:84% I find abiding peace in knowing that "the Lord is my shepherd" 01:35:07.420 --> 01:35:11.510 align:middle line:84% and that each of us is known by Him and under His care. 01:35:11.510 --> 01:35:15.690 align:middle line:84% When we confront life's wind and rainstorms, sickness, injuries, 01:35:15.690 --> 01:35:20.010 align:middle line:84% and drought, the Lord--our Shepherd--will minister to us. 01:35:20.010 --> 01:35:23.040 align:middle line:90% He will restore our souls. 01:35:23.040 --> 01:35:25.740 align:middle line:84% In the same way that my friend tended his sheep 01:35:25.740 --> 01:35:29.270 align:middle line:84% with the assistance of young and old ranch hands, horses, 01:35:29.270 --> 01:35:32.790 align:middle line:84% and sheepdogs, the Lord also requires assistance 01:35:32.790 --> 01:35:35.690 align:middle line:84% in the challenging labor of caring 01:35:35.690 --> 01:35:39.230 align:middle line:90% for the sheep in His flock. 01:35:39.230 --> 01:35:41.510 align:middle line:84% As children of a loving Heavenly Father 01:35:41.510 --> 01:35:45.510 align:middle line:84% and as sheep in His flock, we enjoy the blessings 01:35:45.510 --> 01:35:49.880 align:middle line:84% of being individually ministered to by Jesus Christ. 01:35:49.880 --> 01:35:53.910 align:middle line:84% Simultaneously, we have a responsibility 01:35:53.910 --> 01:35:57.760 align:middle line:84% to provide ministering assistance to others around us 01:35:57.760 --> 01:35:59.560 align:middle line:90% as shepherds ourselves. 01:35:59.560 --> 01:36:03.210 align:middle line:84% We heed the words of the Lord to "serve me and go forth 01:36:03.210 --> 01:36:07.520 align:middle line:84% in my name, and ... gather together my sheep." 01:36:07.520 --> 01:36:09.020 align:middle line:90% Who is the shepherd? 01:36:09.020 --> 01:36:12.220 align:middle line:84% Every man, woman, and child in the kingdom of God 01:36:12.220 --> 01:36:13.700 align:middle line:90% is a shepherd. 01:36:13.700 --> 01:36:16.030 align:middle line:90% No calling is required. 01:36:16.030 --> 01:36:19.560 align:middle line:84% From the moment we emerge from the waters of baptism, 01:36:19.560 --> 01:36:21.730 align:middle line:84% we are commissioned to this work. 01:36:21.730 --> 01:36:24.480 align:middle line:84% We reach out in love to others because it is what 01:36:24.480 --> 01:36:27.450 align:middle line:90% our Savior commanded us to do. 01:36:27.450 --> 01:36:30.640 align:middle line:84% Alma emphasized, "For what shepherd ... 01:36:30.640 --> 01:36:33.200 align:middle line:84% having many sheep doth not watch over them, 01:36:33.200 --> 01:36:37.651 align:middle line:84% that the wolves [may not enter] and devour his flock? 01:36:37.651 --> 01:36:38.150 align:middle line:90% ... 01:36:38.150 --> 01:36:41.760 align:middle line:90% Doth [not he] drive him out?" 01:36:41.760 --> 01:36:45.620 align:middle line:84% Whenever our neighbors are in distress temporally 01:36:45.620 --> 01:36:48.480 align:middle line:84% or spiritually, we run to their aid. 01:36:48.480 --> 01:36:51.510 align:middle line:84% We bear one another's burdens that they may be light. 01:36:51.510 --> 01:36:53.160 align:middle line:90% We mourn with those who mourn. 01:36:53.160 --> 01:36:56.120 align:middle line:84% We comfort those that stand in need of comfort. 01:36:56.120 --> 01:36:59.430 align:middle line:84% The Lord lovingly expects this of us. 01:36:59.430 --> 01:37:02.910 align:middle line:84% And the day will come when we will be held accountable 01:37:02.910 --> 01:37:08.110 align:middle line:84% for the care we take in ministering to His flock. 01:37:08.110 --> 01:37:10.890 align:middle line:84% My shepherd friend shared another important element 01:37:10.890 --> 01:37:13.260 align:middle line:84% in the watchcare of sheep on the range. 01:37:13.260 --> 01:37:15.560 align:middle line:84% He described that lost sheep were 01:37:15.560 --> 01:37:18.520 align:middle line:84% particularly vulnerable to the dangers of predators. 01:37:18.520 --> 01:37:22.260 align:middle line:84% In fact, up to 15 percent of his and his team's total time 01:37:22.260 --> 01:37:25.520 align:middle line:84% was devoted to finding lost sheep. 01:37:25.520 --> 01:37:27.270 align:middle line:84% The sooner they found lost sheep, 01:37:27.270 --> 01:37:31.800 align:middle line:84% before the sheep drifted too far from the flock, the less likely 01:37:31.800 --> 01:37:33.600 align:middle line:90% the sheep were to be harmed. 01:37:33.600 --> 01:37:38.840 align:middle line:84% Recovering lost sheep required much patience and discipline. 01:37:38.840 --> 01:37:40.970 align:middle line:84% Some years ago I found an article 01:37:40.970 --> 01:37:44.640 align:middle line:84% in a local newspaper so intriguing that I saved it. 01:37:44.640 --> 01:37:49.490 align:middle line:84% The front-page headline read, "Determined Dog 01:37:49.490 --> 01:37:52.510 align:middle line:90% Won't Abandon Lost Sheep." 01:37:52.510 --> 01:37:55.110 align:middle line:84% This article describes a small number 01:37:55.110 --> 01:37:57.010 align:middle line:84% of sheep belonging to an operation 01:37:57.010 --> 01:38:00.870 align:middle line:84% not far from my friend's property that were somehow left 01:38:00.870 --> 01:38:03.210 align:middle line:90% behind in their summer range. 01:38:03.210 --> 01:38:08.360 align:middle line:84% Two or three months later, they became stranded and snowbound 01:38:08.360 --> 01:38:09.600 align:middle line:90% in the mountains. 01:38:09.600 --> 01:38:13.170 align:middle line:84% When the sheep were left behind, the sheepdog 01:38:13.170 --> 01:38:15.060 align:middle line:84% stayed with them, for it was his duty 01:38:15.060 --> 01:38:17.810 align:middle line:84% to look after and protect the sheep. 01:38:17.810 --> 01:38:20.530 align:middle line:90% He would not go off watch! 01:38:20.530 --> 01:38:25.450 align:middle line:84% There he remained--circling about the lost sheep for months 01:38:25.450 --> 01:38:29.930 align:middle line:84% in the cold and snowy weather, serving as a protection against 01:38:29.930 --> 01:38:34.280 align:middle line:84% coyotes, mountain lions, or any other predator that would harm 01:38:34.280 --> 01:38:35.320 align:middle line:90% the sheep. 01:38:35.320 --> 01:38:40.160 align:middle line:84% He stayed there until he was able to lead or herd 01:38:40.160 --> 01:38:44.670 align:middle line:84% the sheep back to the safety of the shepherd and the flock. 01:38:44.670 --> 01:38:47.060 align:middle line:84% The image captured on the front page of this article 01:38:47.060 --> 01:38:50.620 align:middle line:84% allows one to see character in the eyes 01:38:50.620 --> 01:38:54.260 align:middle line:90% and demeanor of this sheepdog. 01:38:54.260 --> 01:38:57.130 align:middle line:84% In the New Testament, we find a parable and instruction 01:38:57.130 --> 01:39:01.430 align:middle line:84% from the Savior that provides further insight pertaining 01:39:01.430 --> 01:39:05.750 align:middle line:84% to our responsibility as shepherds, ministering sisters 01:39:05.750 --> 01:39:08.870 align:middle line:90% and brothers of lost sheep: 01:39:08.870 --> 01:39:11.150 align:middle line:84% "What man of you, having an hundred sheep, 01:39:11.150 --> 01:39:15.610 align:middle line:84% if he lose one ..., doth not leave the ninety and nine 01:39:15.610 --> 01:39:19.150 align:middle line:84% in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, 01:39:19.150 --> 01:39:21.500 align:middle line:90% until he find it? 01:39:21.500 --> 01:39:23.980 align:middle line:84% "And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, 01:39:23.980 --> 01:39:26.110 align:middle line:90% rejoicing. 01:39:26.110 --> 01:39:28.980 align:middle line:84% "And when he comes home, he calleth together his friends 01:39:28.980 --> 01:39:33.620 align:middle line:84% and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; 01:39:33.620 --> 01:39:38.640 align:middle line:84% for I have found my sheep which was lost." 01:39:38.640 --> 01:39:41.090 align:middle line:84% As we summarize the lesson taught in the parable, 01:39:41.090 --> 01:39:43.320 align:middle line:90% we find this valuable counsel: 01:39:43.320 --> 01:39:46.830 align:middle line:84% First, we are to identify the lost sheep. 01:39:46.830 --> 01:39:50.270 align:middle line:84% Second, we search after them until they are found. 01:39:50.270 --> 01:39:53.620 align:middle line:84% Third, when they are found, we may 01:39:53.620 --> 01:39:56.380 align:middle line:84% have to lay them on our shoulders to bring them home. 01:39:56.380 --> 01:40:03.180 align:middle line:84% Finally, we surround them with friends upon their return. 01:40:03.180 --> 01:40:05.900 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, our greatest challenges 01:40:05.900 --> 01:40:09.360 align:middle line:84% and our greatest rewards may come as we 01:40:09.360 --> 01:40:11.430 align:middle line:90% minister to lost sheep. 01:40:11.430 --> 01:40:15.530 align:middle line:84% The members of the Church in the Book of Mormon "watch[ed] over 01:40:15.530 --> 01:40:18.590 align:middle line:84% their people, and did nourish them with things pertaining 01:40:18.590 --> 01:40:20.140 align:middle line:90% to righteousness." 01:40:20.140 --> 01:40:24.890 align:middle line:84% We can follow their examples and remember that ministering is 01:40:24.890 --> 01:40:28.490 align:middle line:84% to be "led by the Spirit, ... flexible, and ... 01:40:28.490 --> 01:40:31.380 align:middle line:84% customized to the needs of each member." 01:40:31.380 --> 01:40:36.020 align:middle line:84% It is also critical that we "seek to help individuals 01:40:36.020 --> 01:40:38.970 align:middle line:84% and families prepare for their next ordinance, 01:40:38.970 --> 01:40:43.880 align:middle line:84% keep [their] covenants ..., and become self-reliant." 01:40:43.880 --> 01:40:46.640 align:middle line:84% Every soul is precious to our Heavenly Father. 01:40:46.640 --> 01:40:49.920 align:middle line:84% His personal invitation to minister 01:40:49.920 --> 01:40:52.540 align:middle line:84% is of greatest value and importance 01:40:52.540 --> 01:40:55.890 align:middle line:84% to Him, for it is His work and glory. 01:40:55.890 --> 01:40:59.330 align:middle line:84% It is quite literally the work of eternity. 01:40:59.330 --> 01:41:02.920 align:middle line:84% Each one of His children has immeasurable potential 01:41:02.920 --> 01:41:03.770 align:middle line:90% in His sight. 01:41:03.770 --> 01:41:07.280 align:middle line:84% He loves you with a love you cannot even begin 01:41:07.280 --> 01:41:09.320 align:middle line:90% to comprehend. 01:41:09.320 --> 01:41:12.450 align:middle line:84% Like the devoted sheepdog, the Lord 01:41:12.450 --> 01:41:15.150 align:middle line:84% will stay on the mountain to protect you 01:41:15.150 --> 01:41:20.870 align:middle line:84% through the wind, rainstorms, snow, and more. 01:41:20.870 --> 01:41:22.650 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson taught 01:41:22.650 --> 01:41:26.740 align:middle line:84% us last conference: "Our message to the world 01:41:26.740 --> 01:41:29.360 align:middle line:84% [and may I add, to our ministering flock] 01:41:29.360 --> 01:41:34.520 align:middle line:84% is simple and sincere: we invite all of God's children 01:41:34.520 --> 01:41:38.490 align:middle line:84% on both sides of the veil to come unto their Savior, 01:41:38.490 --> 01:41:43.340 align:middle line:84% receive the blessings of the holy temple, have enduring joy, 01:41:43.340 --> 01:41:46.040 align:middle line:90% and qualify for eternal life." 01:41:46.040 --> 01:41:48.630 align:middle line:84% May we raise our sights to this prophetic vision 01:41:48.630 --> 01:41:50.860 align:middle line:84% so we can shepherd souls to the temple 01:41:50.860 --> 01:41:53.920 align:middle line:84% and ultimately to our Savior, Jesus Christ. 01:41:53.920 --> 01:41:57.170 align:middle line:84% He does not expect us to perform miracles. 01:41:57.170 --> 01:42:00.940 align:middle line:84% He only asks that we bring our brothers and sisters unto Him, 01:42:00.940 --> 01:42:04.400 align:middle line:84% for He has the power to redeem souls. 01:42:04.400 --> 01:42:08.570 align:middle line:84% As we do so, we can and will secure this promise: 01:42:08.570 --> 01:42:11.260 align:middle line:84% "And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, 01:42:11.260 --> 01:42:16.430 align:middle line:84% ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away." 01:42:16.430 --> 01:42:20.120 align:middle line:84% Of this I testify, and of Jesus Christ 01:42:20.120 --> 01:42:26.606 align:middle line:84% as our Savior and our Redeemer, in the name of Jesus Christ, 01:42:26.606 --> 01:42:27.105 align:middle line:90% amen. 01:42:27.105 --> 01:42:37.300 align:middle line:90% 01:42:37.300 --> 01:42:39.640 align:middle line:84% At the conclusion of the conference, 01:42:39.640 --> 01:42:44.720 align:middle line:84% we express sincere appreciation to all 01:42:44.720 --> 01:42:49.424 align:middle line:84% who have worked so diligently to prepare for these services. 01:42:49.424 --> 01:42:51.090 align:middle line:84% We thank those who have spoken and those 01:42:51.090 --> 01:42:54.180 align:middle line:84% who have provided the uplifting music. 01:42:54.180 --> 01:42:57.090 align:middle line:84% The concluding speaker for this session 01:42:57.090 --> 01:43:01.260 align:middle line:84% will be our beloved prophet, President Russell M. Nelson. 01:43:01.260 --> 01:43:04.830 align:middle line:84% Following his remarks, the choir will close the meeting 01:43:04.830 --> 01:43:07.740 align:middle line:90% by singing "Our Prayer to Thee." 01:43:07.740 --> 01:43:11.590 align:middle line:84% The benediction will then be offered by Michael John U. 01:43:11.590 --> 01:43:14.670 align:middle line:84% Teh of the Seventy, and the conference 01:43:14.670 --> 01:43:16.590 align:middle line:84% will be adjourned for six months. 01:43:16.590 --> 01:43:26.670 align:middle line:90% 01:43:26.670 --> 01:43:31.490 align:middle line:84% This has been an inspirational and historic conference. 01:43:31.490 --> 01:43:35.120 align:middle line:84% We look to the future with enthusiasm. 01:43:35.120 --> 01:43:39.650 align:middle line:84% We have been motivated to do better and to be better. 01:43:39.650 --> 01:43:43.160 align:middle line:84% The marvelous messages delivered from this pulpit 01:43:43.160 --> 01:43:45.960 align:middle line:84% by our General Authorities and General Officers 01:43:45.960 --> 01:43:49.900 align:middle line:90% and the music have been sublime! 01:43:49.900 --> 01:43:56.040 align:middle line:84% I urge you to study these messages, commencing this week. 01:43:56.040 --> 01:44:00.050 align:middle line:84% They express the mind and the will of the Lord for His people 01:44:00.050 --> 01:44:02.780 align:middle line:90% today. 01:44:02.780 --> 01:44:05.490 align:middle line:84% The new home-centered, Church-supported 01:44:05.490 --> 01:44:08.160 align:middle line:84% integrated curriculum has the potential 01:44:08.160 --> 01:44:12.820 align:middle line:84% to unleash the power of families as each family follows 01:44:12.820 --> 01:44:16.080 align:middle line:84% through conscientiously and carefully 01:44:16.080 --> 01:44:21.050 align:middle line:84% to transform their home into a sanctuary of faith. 01:44:21.050 --> 01:44:23.840 align:middle line:84% I promise that as you diligently work 01:44:23.840 --> 01:44:28.720 align:middle line:84% to remodel your home into a center of gospel learning, 01:44:28.720 --> 01:44:34.840 align:middle line:84% over time your Sabbath days will truly be a delight. 01:44:34.840 --> 01:44:40.720 align:middle line:84% Your children will be excited to learn and to live the Savior's 01:44:40.720 --> 01:44:45.180 align:middle line:84% teachings, and the influence of the adversary in your life 01:44:45.180 --> 01:44:49.450 align:middle line:90% and in your home will decrease. 01:44:49.450 --> 01:44:53.195 align:middle line:84% Changes in your family will be dramatic and sustaining. 01:44:53.195 --> 01:44:55.960 align:middle line:90% 01:44:55.960 --> 01:44:58.630 align:middle line:84% During this conference we have strengthened our resolve 01:44:58.630 --> 01:45:02.010 align:middle line:84% to execute the essential effort to honor the Lord Jesus 01:45:02.010 --> 01:45:07.110 align:middle line:84% Christ every time we refer to His Church. 01:45:07.110 --> 01:45:10.110 align:middle line:84% I promise you that our rigorous attention 01:45:10.110 --> 01:45:12.900 align:middle line:84% to use the correct name of the Savior's Church 01:45:12.900 --> 01:45:18.260 align:middle line:84% and its members will lead to increased faith and access 01:45:18.260 --> 01:45:21.920 align:middle line:84% to greater spiritual power for members of His Church. 01:45:21.920 --> 01:45:25.110 align:middle line:90% 01:45:25.110 --> 01:45:29.370 align:middle line:84% Now let's turn to the topic of temples. 01:45:29.370 --> 01:45:32.070 align:middle line:84% We know that our time in the temple 01:45:32.070 --> 01:45:35.570 align:middle line:84% is crucial to our salvation and exaltation 01:45:35.570 --> 01:45:37.185 align:middle line:90% and to that of our families. 01:45:37.185 --> 01:45:39.960 align:middle line:90% 01:45:39.960 --> 01:45:42.450 align:middle line:84% After we receive our own temple ordinances 01:45:42.450 --> 01:45:46.000 align:middle line:84% and make sacred covenants with God, each one of us 01:45:46.000 --> 01:45:50.420 align:middle line:84% needs the ongoing spiritual strengthening and tutoring 01:45:50.420 --> 01:45:53.800 align:middle line:84% that is only possible in the house of the Lord. 01:45:53.800 --> 01:46:00.170 align:middle line:84% And our ancestors need us to serve as proxy for them. 01:46:00.170 --> 01:46:02.440 align:middle line:84% Consider the great mercy and fairness 01:46:02.440 --> 01:46:06.150 align:middle line:84% of God, who, before the foundation of the world, 01:46:06.150 --> 01:46:09.360 align:middle line:84% provided a way to give temple blessings to those 01:46:09.360 --> 01:46:12.240 align:middle line:84% who died without a knowledge of the gospel. 01:46:12.240 --> 01:46:15.930 align:middle line:84% These sacred temple rites are ancient. 01:46:15.930 --> 01:46:21.670 align:middle line:84% To me that antiquity is thrilling and another evidence 01:46:21.670 --> 01:46:22.666 align:middle line:90% of their authenticity. 01:46:22.666 --> 01:46:25.640 align:middle line:90% 01:46:25.640 --> 01:46:28.750 align:middle line:84% My dear brothers and sisters, the assaults of the adversary 01:46:28.750 --> 01:46:34.680 align:middle line:84% are increasing exponentially in intensity and in variety. 01:46:34.680 --> 01:46:38.470 align:middle line:84% Our need to be in the temple on a regular basis 01:46:38.470 --> 01:46:40.410 align:middle line:90% has never been greater. 01:46:40.410 --> 01:46:43.790 align:middle line:84% I plead with you to take a prayerful look 01:46:43.790 --> 01:46:45.680 align:middle line:90% at how you spend your time. 01:46:45.680 --> 01:46:52.220 align:middle line:84% Invest time in your future and in that of your family. 01:46:52.220 --> 01:46:55.760 align:middle line:84% If you have reasonable access to a temple, 01:46:55.760 --> 01:46:59.290 align:middle line:84% I urge you to find a way to make an appointment regularly with 01:46:59.290 --> 01:47:04.470 align:middle line:84% the Lord--to be in His holy house--and then keep that 01:47:04.470 --> 01:47:07.560 align:middle line:84% appointment with exactness and joy. 01:47:07.560 --> 01:47:10.150 align:middle line:84% I promise you that the Lord will bring 01:47:10.150 --> 01:47:14.620 align:middle line:84% the miracles He knows you need as you make sacrifices to serve 01:47:14.620 --> 01:47:18.570 align:middle line:90% and worship in His temples. 01:47:18.570 --> 01:47:23.870 align:middle line:84% Currently we have 159 dedicated temples. 01:47:23.870 --> 01:47:27.900 align:middle line:84% The proper care and maintenance of those temples 01:47:27.900 --> 01:47:30.850 align:middle line:90% is very important to us. 01:47:30.850 --> 01:47:33.610 align:middle line:84% With the passage of time, temples 01:47:33.610 --> 01:47:37.400 align:middle line:84% are inevitably in need of refreshing and renewal. 01:47:37.400 --> 01:47:43.070 align:middle line:84% To that end, plans are now being made to renovate and update 01:47:43.070 --> 01:47:49.200 align:middle line:84% the Salt Lake Temple and other pioneer-generation temples. 01:47:49.200 --> 01:47:52.260 align:middle line:84% Details on these projects will be 01:47:52.260 --> 01:47:53.815 align:middle line:90% shared as they are developed. 01:47:53.815 --> 01:47:56.320 align:middle line:90% 01:47:56.320 --> 01:47:58.540 align:middle line:84% Today we are pleased to announce plans 01:47:58.540 --> 01:48:01.805 align:middle line:90% to construct 12 more temples. 01:48:01.805 --> 01:48:06.230 align:middle line:90% 01:48:06.230 --> 01:48:11.320 align:middle line:84% Those temples will be built in the following locations: 01:48:11.320 --> 01:48:31.380 align:middle line:84% Mendoza, Argentina; Salvador, Brazil; Yuba City, California; 01:48:31.380 --> 01:48:41.990 align:middle line:84% Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Praia, Cape Verde; 01:48:41.990 --> 01:49:00.980 align:middle line:84% Yigo, Guam; Puebla, Mexico; Auckland, New Zealand; 01:49:00.980 --> 01:49:12.910 align:middle line:84% Lagos, Nigeria; Davao, Philippines; San Juan, Puerto 01:49:12.910 --> 01:49:20.150 align:middle line:90% Rico; Washington County, Utah. 01:49:20.150 --> 01:49:37.950 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:49:37.950 --> 01:49:42.060 align:middle line:84% Building and maintaining temples may not change your life, 01:49:42.060 --> 01:49:46.400 align:middle line:84% but spending your time in the temple surely will. 01:49:46.400 --> 01:49:49.750 align:middle line:84% To those who have long been absent from the temple, 01:49:49.750 --> 01:49:55.060 align:middle line:84% I encourage you to prepare and return as soon as possible. 01:49:55.060 --> 01:49:59.740 align:middle line:84% Then I invite you to worship in the temple and pray 01:49:59.740 --> 01:50:05.520 align:middle line:84% to feel deeply the Savior's infinite love for you, 01:50:05.520 --> 01:50:11.240 align:middle line:84% that each of you may gain your own testimony that He directs 01:50:11.240 --> 01:50:16.150 align:middle line:90% this sacred and ageless work. 01:50:16.150 --> 01:50:17.740 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, I thank you 01:50:17.740 --> 01:50:20.730 align:middle line:84% for your faith and sustaining efforts. 01:50:20.730 --> 01:50:24.140 align:middle line:84% I leave my love and blessing upon you, 01:50:24.140 --> 01:50:27.480 align:middle line:84% that you may feast upon the word of the Lord 01:50:27.480 --> 01:50:31.820 align:middle line:84% and apply His teachings in your personal lives. 01:50:31.820 --> 01:50:35.860 align:middle line:84% I assure you that revelation continues in the Church 01:50:35.860 --> 01:50:40.030 align:middle line:84% and will continue until "the purposes of God 01:50:40.030 --> 01:50:43.220 align:middle line:84% shall be accomplished, and the Great Jehovah 01:50:43.220 --> 01:50:46.860 align:middle line:90% shall say the work is done." 01:50:46.860 --> 01:50:51.940 align:middle line:84% I bless you with increased faith in Him and in His holy work, 01:50:51.940 --> 01:50:57.200 align:middle line:84% with faith and patience to endure your personal challenges 01:50:57.200 --> 01:50:58.500 align:middle line:90% in life. 01:50:58.500 --> 01:51:02.910 align:middle line:84% I bless you to become exemplary Latter-day Saints. 01:51:02.910 --> 01:51:07.010 align:middle line:84% I so bless you and bear my testimony that God lives! 01:51:07.010 --> 01:51:08.980 align:middle line:90% Jesus is the Christ! 01:51:08.980 --> 01:51:10.840 align:middle line:90% This is His Church. 01:51:10.840 --> 01:51:13.100 align:middle line:90% We are His people. 01:51:13.100 --> 01:51:15.410 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:51:15.410 --> 01:51:31.877 align:middle line:90% 01:51:31.877 --> 01:57:04.066 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "OUR PRAYER TO THEE"] 01:57:04.066 --> 01:57:13.050 align:middle line:90% 01:57:13.050 --> 01:57:17.830 align:middle line:84% Our loving Father in Heaven, we come before Thee now 01:57:17.830 --> 01:57:20.900 align:middle line:84% in gratitude at the conclusion of yet 01:57:20.900 --> 01:57:27.780 align:middle line:84% another historic and revelatory general conference weekend. 01:57:27.780 --> 01:57:31.950 align:middle line:84% We thank Thee, Father, for a living prophet on the earth 01:57:31.950 --> 01:57:35.540 align:middle line:84% today, even President Russell M. Nelson, 01:57:35.540 --> 01:57:41.640 align:middle line:84% and the 14 other men whom we sustain as prophets, seers, 01:57:41.640 --> 01:57:43.165 align:middle line:90% and revelators. 01:57:43.165 --> 01:57:45.256 align:middle line:84% We pray for a blessing upon them. 01:57:45.256 --> 01:57:47.940 align:middle line:84% Bless them with health and safety 01:57:47.940 --> 01:57:52.100 align:middle line:84% as they circle the globe to declare Thy word. 01:57:52.100 --> 01:57:59.080 align:middle line:84% We are truly grateful for the revelation, counsel, 01:57:59.080 --> 01:58:01.850 align:middle line:84% and guidance that we have received from Thee through them 01:58:01.850 --> 01:58:04.560 align:middle line:90% at this time. 01:58:04.560 --> 01:58:09.040 align:middle line:84% May we now be able to take these things, 01:58:09.040 --> 01:58:13.560 align:middle line:84% take it back to our lives, to our homes, to our friends, 01:58:13.560 --> 01:58:19.570 align:middle line:84% and may we be wise, that we'll truly seek confirmation 01:58:19.570 --> 01:58:22.520 align:middle line:84% from Thee and further revelation, 01:58:22.520 --> 01:58:27.020 align:middle line:84% personal revelation, on how these things can bless 01:58:27.020 --> 01:58:31.720 align:middle line:90% us and bless Thy children. 01:58:31.720 --> 01:58:35.050 align:middle line:84% We are truly grateful for the new temples that 01:58:35.050 --> 01:58:38.160 align:middle line:84% have been announced, that will be a blessing 01:58:38.160 --> 01:58:42.860 align:middle line:84% to Thy faithful children who are scattered around the globe. 01:58:42.860 --> 01:58:48.810 align:middle line:84% Thank Thee, Father, thank Thee for thy generosity and kindness 01:58:48.810 --> 01:58:52.515 align:middle line:84% and for always reaching out to all Thy children 01:58:52.515 --> 01:58:53.390 align:middle line:90% throughout the world. 01:58:53.390 --> 01:58:57.740 align:middle line:84% At this time we pray for safety as we 01:58:57.740 --> 01:59:00.220 align:middle line:84% depart from the Conference Center, 01:59:00.220 --> 01:59:05.020 align:middle line:84% that our minds and our hearts will continue to look forward 01:59:05.020 --> 01:59:08.580 align:middle line:84% and have a vision of what we can be, 01:59:08.580 --> 01:59:13.380 align:middle line:84% that our conversion will truly deepen 01:59:13.380 --> 01:59:15.890 align:middle line:84% and our faith in Heavenly Father, in Thee 01:59:15.890 --> 01:59:21.530 align:middle line:84% and Thy Son, Jesus Christ, will be strengthened. 01:59:21.530 --> 01:59:26.410 align:middle line:84% We again remember Thy servant President M. Russell 01:59:26.410 --> 01:59:33.120 align:middle line:84% Ballard, our brother, our fellow servant, and our leader. 01:59:33.120 --> 01:59:39.240 align:middle line:84% Bless him and comfort him and his family in this tender time 01:59:39.240 --> 01:59:42.720 align:middle line:84% as Sister Ballard has been called upon 01:59:42.720 --> 01:59:46.200 align:middle line:84% to continue her work beyond the veil. 01:59:46.200 --> 01:59:49.820 align:middle line:84% Father, we love Thee, and we say these things 01:59:49.820 --> 01:59:52.115 align:middle line:84% in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:59:52.115 --> 02:01:32.990 align:middle line:90% 02:01:32.990 --> 02:01:37.830 align:middle line:84% This has been a broadcast of the 188th Semiannual General 02:01:37.830 --> 02:01:41.350 align:middle line:84% Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 02:01:41.350 --> 02:01:42.230 align:middle line:90% Saints. 02:01:42.230 --> 02:01:46.140 align:middle line:84% Speakers were selected from the General Authorities and General 02:01:46.140 --> 02:01:47.830 align:middle line:90% Officers of the Church. 02:01:47.830 --> 02:01:50.890 align:middle line:84% Music was provided by the Tabernacle Choir 02:01:50.890 --> 02:01:51.860 align:middle line:90% at Temple Square. 02:01:51.860 --> 02:01:54.650 align:middle line:90% 02:01:54.650 --> 02:01:57.500 align:middle line:84% This broadcast has been furnished as a public service 02:01:57.500 --> 02:01:59.270 align:middle line:90% by Bonneville Distribution. 02:01:59.270 --> 02:02:02.380 align:middle line:84% Any reproduction, recording, transcription, 02:02:02.380 --> 02:02:05.690 align:middle line:84% or other use of this program without written consent 02:02:05.690 --> 02:02:07.600 align:middle line:90% is prohibited. 02:02:07.600 --> 02:02:29.035 align:middle line:90%