THE ENSIGN OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • MAY 2002

General Conference Addresses The Millennial Lion House,by Grant Romney Clawson

A woman with an umbrella walks leisurely through the gardens of the Lion House, seemingly unaware of the statue of a crouching lion high atop the entryway. Built in 1856, the Lion House is named for President Brigham Young—known fondly as the Lion of the Lord. He earned the title after delivering a particularly powerful sermon in Nauvoo; Elder Wilford Woodruff noted in his diary, “The lion roared again tonight.” MAY 2002 • VOLUME 32, NUMBER 5

2 Index for April 2002 SUNDAY MORNING SESSION General Conference and 59 The Lifeline of Prayer General Young Women Meeting President James E. Faust SATURDAY MORNING SESSION 62 The Other Prodigal Elder Jeffrey R. Holland 4 The Church Goes Forward President Gordon B. Hinckley 65 For Thy Good Bishop Richard C. Edgley 7 Children President Boyd K. Packer 67 The Language of Love Gayle M. Clegg 10 The Law of Tithing Sessions of the Elder Earl C. Tingey 69 Out of Darkness into 172nd Annual His Marvelous Light 13 Developing Inner Strength 4 General Conference Elder Robert D. Hales Mary Ellen W. Smoot 72 We Walk by Faith 15 “Follow Me” President Gordon B. Hinckley Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin 18 Hidden Wedges SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION President Thomas S. Monson 75 How Firm Our Foundation SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION Elder Russell M. Nelson 78 Eternal Life through Jesus Christ 21 The Sustaining of Church Officers Elder John M. Madsen President Thomas S. Monson 80 Some Basic Teachings from the 22 Church Auditing Department Report History of Joseph Smith Wesley L. Jones Elder Carlos H. Amado 23 Statistical Report, 2001 Report of the 82 Charity: Perfect and Everlasting Love F. Michael Watson General Young Elder Gene R. Cook 91Women Meeting 24 Full Conversion Brings Happiness 84 Feel the Love of the Lord Elder Richard G. Scott Bonnie D. Parkin 26 True Friends 85 The Opportunity to Serve Elder Henry B. Eyring Elder Gerald N. Lund 29 Faith Obedience 86 I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go Elder R. Conrad Schultz Elder William R. Walker 31 Being Teachable 87 The Peaceable Things Elder Robert R. Steuer of the Kingdom 33 The Gospel in Our Lives Elder M. Russell Ballard Elder Dallin H. Oaks 90 We Look to Christ 36 Consecrate Thy Performance President Gordon B. Hinckley Elder Neal A. Maxwell GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING PRIESTHOOD SESSION 91 Standing in Holy Places 39 Becoming Men in Whom Sharon G. Larsen the Spirit of God Is 94 Strengthen Home and Family Elder L. Tom Perry Carol B. Thomas 42 This Road We Call Life 96 Hold High the Torch Elder Ben B. Banks Margaret D. Nadauld 44 Becoming a Great Benefit 99 Pathways to Perfection to Our Fellow Beings President Thomas S. Monson Elder Spencer J. Condie 46 It Can’t Happen to Me President James E. Faust 56 General Authorities of The Church 49 They Pray and They Go of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Thomas S. Monson 52 Personal Worthiness 102 Teachings for Our Time, 2002 to Exercise the Priesthood 103 Resource Guides President Gordon B. Hinckley 105 News of the Church

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 1 TOPIC INDEX Light of Christ 87 Abuse 52 Love 7, 26, 62, 67, 82 Adversity 65 Meditation 80 Atonement 65, 75 Missionary Work 49 Attendance, Church 33, 80 Modesty 96 Blessings 10, 49 Obedience 10, 29, 31, 33 Charity 82 Peace 87 Children 7, 67 Perpetual Education Fund 4 SPEAKERS LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER Choices 42 Plan of Salvation 65, 75 Amado, Carlos H. 80 Commitment 36, 86 Potential 46 Ballard, M. Russell 87 Consecration 36 Prayer 49, 59, 67, 72, 80, 94 Banks, Ben B. 42 Conversion 24 Preparation 44 Clegg, Gayle M. 67 Covetousness 62 Pride 29 Condie, Spencer J. 44 Darkness 69 Priesthood 39, 52 Cook, Gene R. 82 Deception 29 Prophets 39, 85 Edgley, Richard C. 65 Discipleship 15, 99 Protection 7 Eyring, Henry B. 26 Discipline 99 Reconciliation 18 Faust, James E. 46, 59 Envy 62 Relief Society 13, 84 Hales, Robert D. 69 Eternal Life 78 Repentance 24 Hinckley, Gordon B. 4, 52, 72, 90 Example 26, 39, 96 Reverence 91 Holland, Jeffrey R. 62 Faith 24, 29, 44, 46, 49, 59, 65, 72, 90 Righteousness 96 Family 94 Larsen, Sharon G. 91 Sacrifice 15, 94 Family Prayer 59 Lund, Gerald N. 85 Scriptures 80 Forgiveness 18, 87 Self-discipline 46 Madsen, John M. 78 Friendship 26 Service 13, 33, 44, 62, 85 Maxwell, Neal A. 36 Generosity 62 Smith, Joseph 80 Monson, Thomas S. 18, 21, 49, 99 Goals 42 Standards 96 Nadauld, Margaret D. 96 Gratitude 82, 84, 99 Nelson, Russell M. 75 Growth, Church 4 Strength 13 Oaks, Dallin H. 33 Happiness 24, 42, 67, 99 Submissiveness 36, 85 Packer, Boyd K. 7 History, Church 4 Teachableness 31 Parkin, Bonnie D. 84 Holiness 91 Teaching 7 Perry, L. Tom 39 Holy Ghost 26, 31, 39, 42, 69, 91 Te mple Work 75 Schultz, R. Conrad 29 Holy Places 91 Te mptation 15, 46 Scott, Richard G. 24 Home 94 Testimony 10, 78, 84, 86, 90 Smoot, Mary Ellen W. 13 Hospitality 4 Tithing 10, 72 Steuer, Robert R. 31 Humility 31 Tr uth 75, 80 Thomas, Carol B. 94 Jesus Christ 15, 33, 59, 69, 78, 87, 90 Unity 13 Tingey, Earl C. 10 Kindness 52 Wedges 18 Walker, William R. 86 Learning 99 Work 99 Wirthlin, Joseph B. 15 Light 69, 72 Worthiness 52

THE FIRST PRESIDENCY: Gordon B. Hinckley, MAGAZINE GRAPHICS MANAGER: M. M. Kawasaki Magazines at address below. Credit card orders Thomas S. Monson, James E. Faust ART DIRECTOR: J. Scott Knudsen (American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover Card) QUORUM OF THE TWELVE: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, SENIOR DESIGNERS: C. Kimball Bott, Fay P. Andrus, are accepted by phone at 1-800-537-5971. The Ensign David B. Haight, Neal A. Maxwell, Russell M. Nelson, Tadd R. Peterson Talking Book, for individuals with visual impairment Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, DESIGNER: Thomas S. Child or physical disability, is available free of charge or through donations. Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, PRINTING DIRECTOR: Kay W. Briggs TOSUBMIT MANUSCRIPTS OR ART: Henry B. Eyring DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR: Kris T. Christensen EDITOR: Dennis B. Neuenschwander Send submissions to the address above or via e-mail CONFERENCE PHOTOGRAPHY: ADVISERS: J. Kent Jolley, W. Rolfe Kerr, Stephen A. West Craig Dimond, Jed Clark, at [email protected]. For return Kelly Larsen, Ellie Carter, Robert Casey, Tamra MANAGING DIRECTOR: Ronald L. Knighton delivery by mail, manuscripts and art must be Ratieta, Allexis Duce, Mark Hedengren, Richard EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Richard M. Romney accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Romney, Arnie Angle, Casey McFarland. GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: Allan R. Loyborg TO CHANGE ADDRESSES: Old address as well as MANAGING EDITOR: Brian K. Kelly © 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights re- new is needed. Call the subscription helpline at ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITORS: Don L. Searle, served. The Ensign (ISSN 0884-1136) is published 1-800-537-5971, or send changes to the address below. Jonathan H. Stephenson monthly by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ASSOCIATE EDITORS: Judith M. Paller, Saints, 50 East North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, Salt Lake Distribution Center LaRene Porter Gaunt, Linda Stahle Cooper UT 84150-3224, USA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt Church Magazines, P.O. Box 26368 ASSISTANT EDITORS: Rebecca M. Taylor, Lake City, Utah, and at additional mailing offices. Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA Kerry G. Smith, Barbara Jean Jones TOSUBSCRIBE: Send $10.00 U.S. check or money order CANADA POST INFORMATION TEXT PROGRAMMER: Sally J. Odekirk for the Ensign (pronounced N’sign) to Church Publication Agreement #40017431

2 CONFERENCE CASSETTES, CDS, Saturday Afternoon, 6 April 2002, Sunday Morning, 7 April 2002, DVDS AVAILABLE General Session General Session Recordings of conference sessions are Music by a combined choir from Music by the Mormon Tabernacle available at distribution centers, generally the Logan and Ogden, Utah, institutes, Choir, directed by Craig Jessop, with within two months following conference. directed by Duane J. Huff, Stephen organists John Longhurst and Clay Available formats include audio and Schank, Jerald F. Simon, with organist Christiansen: “Come, Thou Glorious Day video cassette, compact disc, and digital Bonnie Goodliffe: “Press Forward, of Promise” (Hymns, no. 50); “O Thou video disc. Recordings for individuals Saints” (arranged by Bradford, published Kind and Gracious Father” (Hymns, no. who are deaf (videocassettes with a by Deseret Book; Hymns, no. 81); “Lord, 150); “Adam-ondi-Ahman” (Hymns, no. signing inset) and for those with visual I Would Follow Thee” (Hymns, no. 220); 49); “Guide Us, O Thou Great Jehovah” impairment (slow-speed audiocassette “Come, O Thou King of Kings” (Hymns, (Hymns, no. 83); “Where Can I Turn for tapes) are available from Special no. 59); “I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Peace?” (arranged by Wilberg, published Curriculum, 50 East North Temple Street, Go” (arranged by Schank, unpublished; by Deseret Book; Hymns, no. 129); “Let Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3200. Hymns, no. 270). Zion in Her Beauty Rise” (arranged by Saturday Evening, 6 April 2002, Wilberg, unpublished; Hymns, no. 41). CONFERENCE TALKS ON INTERNET Priesthood Session Sunday Afternoon, 7 April 2002, To access general conference talks on the Music by a men’s choir from General Session Internet, visit www.lds.org. BYU–Idaho, directed by Kevin Brower Music by the Mormon Tabernacle and Randall Kempton, with organist Choir, directed by Craig Jessop and Mack HOME AND VISITING TEACHING MESSAGES Clay Christiansen: “Sing Praise to Him” Wilberg, with organists Linda Margetts For home and visiting teaching messages, (arranged by Kempton, unpublished; and Bonnie Goodliffe: “Redeemer of please select an address that best meets Hymns, no. 70); “Oh, May My Soul Israel” (arranged by Wilberg; Hymns, the needs of those you visit. Commune with Thee” (arranged by no. 6); “Joseph Smith’s First Prayer” Dayley, published by Jackman; Hymns, (arranged by Wilberg, unpublished; no. 123); “Rejoice, the Lord Is King!” Hymns, no. 26); “How Firm a Foundation” GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN (Hymns, no. 66); “Hope of Israel” (Hymns, no. 85); “Come, Follow Me” MEETING MUSIC (arranged by Kasen, published by (Hymns, no. 116); “Abide with Me; ’Tis Jackman; Hymns, no. 259). Eventide” (arranged by Gates, published Saturday Evening, 30 March 2002 by Jackman; Hymns, no. 165). Music by a young women’s choir from stakes in Huntsville, Morgan, Ogden, and Riverdale, Utah, directed by Deborah Mason, with organist Bonnie Goodliffe: “I Am a Child of God” (Hymns, no. 301); “In That Holy Place” (DeFord); “Choose the Right” (Hymns, no. 239); “More Holiness Give Me” (Hymns, no. 131); “As Zion’s Youth in Latter Days” (arranged by Kasen, published by Jackman; Hymns, no. 256).

GENERAL CONFERENCE MUSIC Saturday Morning, 6 April 2002, General Session Music by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, directed by Craig Jessop and Barlow Bradford, with organist Richard Elliott: “The Spirit of God” (Hymns, no. 2); “God Is Love” (Hymns, no. 87); “Jesus, Once of Humble Birth” (arranged by Cundick, published by Sonos; Hymns, no. 196); “We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet” (Hymns, no. 19); “I Am a Child of God” (arranged by Bradford, pub- lished by Deseret Book; Hymns, no. 301); “Love One Another” (arranged by Bradford, published by Deseret Book; Hymns, no. 308).

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 3 SATURDAY MORNING SESSION 6 April 2002 THE CHURCH GOES FORWARD President Gordon B. Hinckley

No other church to come out of the soil of America has grown so fast nor spread so widely. . . . It is a phenomenon without precedent.

this fiery crucible has come some- thing glorious. Today we stand on the summit of the years and look about us. From the original six members has grown a vast family of worshipers, 11 million-plus strong. From that quiet village has grown a movement that today is scattered through some 160 nations of the earth. This has become the fifth largest church in the United States. That is a remarkable develop- ment. More members of the Church reside out of this nation than in it. That, too, is a remarkable thing. No other church to come out of the soil of America has grown so fast nor spread so widely. Within its vast em- y beloved brothers and sis- brace are members from many na- proselytize, but we were confident ters, it is wonderful to meet tions who speak many tongues. It is a that out of this significant event with you again in a great phenomenon without precedent. As would come a wonderful thing for worldM conference of the Church. the tapestry of its past has unrolled, a the Church. The great buildings One hundred and seventy-two beautiful pattern has come to view. It which we have here—the Temple, years ago today, Joseph Smith and finds expression in the lives of a the Tabernacle, this magnificent his associates met in the inconspicu- happy and wonderful people. It por- Conference Center, the Joseph Smith ous log house on the Peter Whitmer tends marvelous things yet to come. Memorial Building, Family History farm in the quiet village of Fayette, When our people first arrived in facilities, the Church Adminis- New York, and organized the this valley 155 years ago, they saw tration Building, the Church Office Church of Christ. with prophetic vision a great future. Building, our Welfare facilities, to- From that modest beginning But I sometimes wonder if they re- gether with scores of chapels in this something truly remarkable has ally sensed the magnitude of that valley—could not be overlooked by happened. Great has been the his- dream as it would unfold. those who walked the streets of this tory of this work. Our people have The headquarters of the Church and neighboring cities. As Mike endured every kind of suffering. are in this city which recently hosted Wallace once remarked to me, Indescribable have been their sacri- the 19th Winter Olympics. We made “These structures all denote some- fices. Immense beyond belief have a deliberate decision that we would thing solid.” been their labors. But out of all of not use this as a time or place to And beyond this, we had total

4 The Tabernacle Choir provides music for a full-to-capacity session of the 172nd Annual General Conference. confidence in our people, many thou- something they never expected. They complimentary and accurately de- sands of them, who would serve as discovered not only the scenic won- scriptive of a unique culture they volunteers in this great undertaking. der of this area, with its magnificent found here, of the people they met They would be dependable; they mountains and valleys, they found and dealt with, of the spirit of hospi- would be pleasant; they would be not only the wonderful spirit of the tality which they felt. knowledgeable; they would be accom- international games at their best, but Television carried the picture to modating. The unique and distinctive they found beauty in this city. They billions of people across the earth. capacity of our people in speaking the found hosts who were gracious and Newspapers and magazines ran languages of the world would prove accommodating and anxious to assist story after story. to be a tremendous asset beyond any- them. I do not wish to infer that such Thousands upon tens of thousands thing to be found elsewhere. hospitality was limited to our people. walked through Temple Square, ad- Well, it all worked out. The visi- The entire community joined to- mired the majestic House of the Lord, tors came by the hundreds of thou- gether in a great expression of hospi- sat in the Tabernacle and listened to sands. Some came with suspicion tality. But out of all of this came the matchless music of the choir. More and hesitancy, old and false images something wonderful for this thousands filled this great Conference persisting in their minds. They came Church. Representatives of the me- Center to watch a wonderful produc- feeling they might get trapped in dia, so often a tough and calloused tion dealing with the Church and its some unwanted situation by reli- group, with very few exceptions worldwide mission. Other thousands gious zealots. But they found spoke and wrote in language both visited the Family History Center. The

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 5 thought they would go to California and get rich. President Young stood before them and encouraged them to remain, promising that “God will temper the climate, and we shall build a city and a temple to the Most High God in this place. We will ex- tend our settlements to the east and west, to the north and to the south, and we will build towns and cities by the hundreds, and thousands of the Saints will gather in from the nations of the earth. This will become the great highway of the nations. Kings and emperors and the noble and wise of the earth will visit us here” (in Preston Nibley, Brigham Young: Members coming to conference pass through the gates leading to the balcony level of the The Man and His Work [1936], 128). Conference Center. We have witnessed the fulfillment of that prophecy in these recent media were hosted in the Joseph anywhere in the United States; the days. Needless to say, I am happy Smith Memorial Building. We were in- Mormon Tabernacle Choir has [360] with what has happened. Those visi- terviewed for television, radio, and members; and the oldest Steinway tors tasted the distinctive culture of the press by correspondents from dealership in Utah . . . was started as this community. We believe that cul- many parts of this nation and from early as 1862. In Utah, their per capita ture is worth preserving. I compli- across the world. I am told that nearly spending on students is one of the ment and thank our people who 4,000 stories about the Church ap- lowest—yet they boast high test participated in such numbers and so peared in the German press alone. scores. ’It has been fascinating for me, generously, and I compliment and Georgie Anne Geyer, prominent having to tap into this culture.’ ” thank all others who worked to- syndicated writer whose column ap- Miss Geyer concluded her story gether to make of this a wonderful pears in many newspapers, wrote as by writing: “It is simply the mix of a and most significant event. follows: “How on earth could a serious and upright religion, of fami- Now I wish to speak rather largely Mormon state do something lies who foster and insist upon pro- quickly of one or two other matters. so daring as hosting an international viding the highest levels of culture Speaking of Brigham Young has celebrity meeting? Would the world right along with the highest modern reminded me of the Perpetual come gladly to a state whose domi- technology, and of generally sensible Education Fund which we have es- nant religion asks members to ab- organizing and governing. In short, it tablished. It was only a year ago that stain from alcohol, tobacco and even is a modern mix of the old America” I first spoke of this in our general caffeine, three staples of interna- (“Salt Lake City and State of Utah conference. The contributions of tional conferences?” Reveal Themselves to the World,” generous Latter-day Saints have And then she went on to quote Salt Lake Tribune, 15 Feb. 2002, A15). come in to assure us that this en- Raymond T. Grant, artistic director of If there were time, I could give deavor is now on a solid foundation. the Olympic Arts Festival. He talked you many quotations from the sea- We will need more yet, but already it of the opening ceremony and said: soned journalists of the world, who has been demonstrated that vast “ ‘You know, 98 percent of the entire wrote in a most laudatory fashion. good will come of this undertaking. cast were volunteers, and that’s Was there anything negative? Of Young men and women in the un- huge. In fact, most were not paid at course. But it was minimal. We had derprivileged areas of the world, all. This is an extraordinary story, private interviews with presidents of young men and women who for the and I’d link it directly to Mormon nations, with ambassadors, with most part are returned missionaries, culture. As a Catholic boy from New leaders in business, and other fields. will be enabled to get good educa- York, I found it interesting that In 1849, two years after our peo- tions that will lift them out of the Brigham Young, the founder of the ple first arrived here and following slough of poverty in which their Utah settlement of the Mormons, the discovery of gold in California, forebears for generations have strug- built a theater before anything else.’ many were discouraged. They had gled. They will marry and go for- “He went on to tally up: The state struggled to wrest a living from the ward with skills that will qualify has six dance companies; more pianos arid soil. Crickets had devoured their them to earn well and take their and harps are sold in Utah than crops. The winters were cold. Many places in society where they can

6 make a substantial contribution. They will likewise grow in the Church, filling positions of responsi- bility and rearing families who will CHILDREN continue in the faith. President Boyd K. Packer I have time to read only one testi- Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles monial. It comes from a young man who has been blessed by this program. He says: “It is so wonderful that I do not have to just dream anymore There is in what we believe, there is in what we teach, about my education or my future. counsel, commandments, even warnings that we are The Lord has cleared the way, and I am doing it! to protect, to love, to care for, and to “teach [children] “I am currently attending a great to walk in the ways of truth.” technical institute in our country, where I am studying to become a computer technician. . . . By going to school, I am discovering my abilities. The discipline I developed on my night. I groaned within myself. mission helps me to succeed. . . . Later the boy returned. He crept Never before has any young man felt along the wall, glancing from the more blessed than I do. The PEF has bread to me. He was near the point strengthened my faith in the Lord where the woman would see him Jesus Christ. Now, more than ever, I again. I held out my arms, and he feel the responsibility the gospel came running to me. I held him on places upon me to prepare myself to my lap. be a better member, a better leader, Then, as something symbolic, I set and a better father. . . . him in Elder Tuttle’s chair. After the “My dear mother, who has sacri- closing prayer, much to my sorrow, ficed so much, gets so emotional that he darted out into the night. she cries when she prays at night be- When I returned home, I told cause of her gratitude to the Lord. . . . President Spencer W. Kimball about “Now, I envision my town being him. He was deeply moved and blessed because of me. I envision the spoke of it in a conference talk. He Church with leaders who have fi- told others of it and said to me more nancial stability and who can sup- than once, “That experience has far port the Lord’s work with all their any years ago in Cuzco, greater meaning than you have yet might, mind, and strength. I see the high in the Andes come to know.” Church prospering. I am excited to Mountains of Peru, Elder I have never forgotten that little start my own family and teach them A.M Theodore Tuttle and I held a street orphan. Many times in South that we can be self-sufficient. So I sacrament meeting in a long, nar- America I have looked for him in the must finish my education. I will then row room with a door that opened faces of the people. When he comes repay the loan quickly to help my onto the street. It was night and it back into my mind, others come fellowmen. . . . I am grateful for the was very cold. with him. Savior’s mercy. He truly sustains us While Elder Tuttle spoke, a little After World War II on a cold night with His love.” boy, perhaps six years old, appeared in a train station in southern Japan, I And so it goes, my brothers and in the doorway. He was naked ex- heard a tap on the train window. sisters. As this great work moves cept for a ragged shirt that went There stood a boy wearing the same across the earth, we are blessing now about to his knees. ragged shirt, a rag tied about a some 2,400 young people. Others On our left was a small table with swollen jaw, his head covered with will be blessed. a plate of bread for the sacrament. scabies. He held a rusty tin can and a May the Lord bless you, and each This ragged street orphan saw the spoon, the symbol of an orphan beg- of us, as we rejoice in our opportu- bread and inched slowly along the gar. As I struggled to open the door nity to be a part of this great cause in wall toward it. He was almost to the to give him money, the train pulled this wonderful season of the Lord’s table when a woman on the aisle out. I will never forget that hungry work is my humble prayer in the saw him. With a stern toss of her little boy standing in the cold, hold- name of Jesus Christ, amen. head, she banished him out into the ing up his empty tin can.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 7 teenager assigned as a companion. Christ” (Moro. 8:12) wanted to bap- They sang and played music for us. tize little children. Mormon said they Facing us on the front row was a “[denied] the mercies of Christ, and young girl who stood and signed to [set] at naught the atonement of him those behind us who could not hear. and the power of his redemption” Jenny gave a brief testimony. (Moro. 8:20). Then her parents each spoke. They Mormon sternly rebuked them, told of the utter agony they had saying: “He that supposeth that little known when they learned that their children need baptism is in the gall child would never have a normal of bitterness and in the bonds of in- life. They told of the endless, every- iquity; for he hath neither faith, day trials that followed. When others hope, nor charity; wherefore, should would stare or laugh, Jenny’s broth- he be cut off while in the thought, he ers put an arm protectively around must go down to hell. . . . her. The mother then told us of the “Behold, I speak with boldness, love and absolute joy Jenny brought having authority from God” (Moro. to the family. 8:14, 16). Those parents have learned that Only when a child reaches that “after much tribulation, . . . cometh age of accountability, set by the Lord the blessing” (D&C 103:12). I saw at eight years of age (see D&C 68:27), them bound together by adversity is their baptism essential. Before that and refined into pure gold—true age, they are innocent. Latter-day Saints. Children should not be ignored or There was a sick little first grader They told us Jenny adopts fathers. neglected. They absolutely must not in a hospital at a government Indian So when I shook hands with her, I be abused or molested. Children school with a fever and running said, “I’m a grandpa.” must not be abandoned or estranged nose. I opened a package from his She looked up at me and said, by divorce. Parents are responsible to mother, hundreds of miles away on “Well, I can see why!” provide for their children. the reservation. Wrapped in a card- There is nothing in the scriptures, The Lord said, “All children have board box with an auto parts label, there is nothing in what we publish, claim upon their parents for their which no doubt she got from the there is nothing in what we believe maintenance until they are of age” trading post, were some Navajo fry or teach that gives license to parents (D&C 83:4). bread and pieces of mutton—a or anyone else to neglect or abuse We are to look after their physical, Christmas present for her little boy. or molest our own or anyone else’s their spiritual, and their emotional On the news recently, I saw that children. needs. The Book of Mormon teaches, long, familiar line of refugees. With There is in the scriptures, there is “Ye will not suffer your children that them, as usual, were the children in what we publish, there is in what they go hungry, or naked; neither carrying children. One child was we believe, there is in what we teach, will ye suffer that they transgress the perched atop a massive bundle car- counsel, commandments, even laws of God, and fight and quarrel ried by her mother. As they pushed warnings that we are to protect, to one with another, and serve the slowly and silently by, she looked love, to care for, and to “teach [chil- devil, who is the master of sin, or into the camera. That sober little dren] to walk in the ways of truth” who is the evil spirit which hath black face and those big black eyes (Mosiah 4:15). To betray them is ut- been spoken of by our fathers, he be- seemed to ask, “Why?” terly unthinkable. ing an enemy to all righteousness” Children are the past, the present, Among the strongest warnings (Mosiah 4:14). and the future all blended into one. and the severest penalties in the rev- Nothing compares with a father They are consummately precious. elations are those relating to little who is responsible and in turn Every time a child is born, the world children. Jesus said, “But whoso shall teaches his children responsibility. is renewed in innocence. offend one of these little ones which Nothing compares with a mother I constantly think about and pray believe in me, it were better for him who is present with them to comfort for the children and youth and their that a millstone were hanged about them and give them assurance. Love, parents. his neck, and that he were drowned protection, and tenderness are all of Recently, I attended a sacrament in the depth of the sea” (Matt. 18:6). consummate worth. meeting given by children with In the days of the prophet Mormon, The Lord said, “I have com- special needs. Each was disabled some who did not understand that manded you to bring up your chil- in hearing or sight or mental little children are “blameless before dren in light and truth” (D&C 93:40). development. Beside each was a God” (Mosiah 3:21) and are “alive in All too often, a parent is left alone

8 President Thomas S. Monson, First Counselor in the First Presidency (left); President Gordon B. Hinckley; and President James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, await the beginning of a conference session. to raise children. The Lord has a way baptism to fit only those who have those who brought little children, of strengthening that parent to meet long, strong legs, we ignore what “Jesus said, Suffer little children, alone what should be the responsi- the Lord said in the revelations. The [suffer means to permit] and forbid bility of two parents. For either par- prophets have told us that we “ought them not, to come unto me: for of ent to deliberately abandon their to be teachers, [and teach that] which such is the kingdom of heaven” children is a very grievous mistake. be the first principles of the oracles of (Matt. 19:14). I think often of another boy. We God; [for they are] such as have need When His disciples asked what met him at a seminary graduation in of milk, and not of strong meat. . . . kind of men they ought to be, Jesus a remote city in Argentina. He was “. . . Strong meat belongeth to set a little child in their midst (see well clothed and well nourished. them that are of full age, even those Matt. 18:2–3). Except we “become as a The students came down the aisle who by reason of use have their little child, [we] can in nowise inherit up to the stand. There were three senses exercised to discern both the kingdom of God” (3 Ne. 11:38). rather high steps. He could not make good and evil” (Heb. 5:12, 14). A deep concern for children and the first step because his legs were The Apostle Paul wrote, “I have their parents is in my mind and too short. He was a dwarf. fed you with milk, and not with heart and soul. It was then we noticed marching meat: for hitherto ye were not able to Over the years, I have wondered behind him two stalwart young men bear it, neither yet now are ye able” what President Kimball meant when who stepped forward, one on either (1 Cor. 3:2). he reminded me of that street or- side, and lifted him gracefully to the In a revelation given in 1830, just phan in Cuzco and repeated, “That podium. When the service was over, before the Church was organized, experience has far greater meaning they lifted him down again and then the Lord cautioned, “They cannot than you have yet come to know.” marched out with him. They were bear meat now, but milk they must One day he added, “You held a na- his friends and watched over him. receive; wherefore, they must not tion on your lap.” This boy could not reach the first know these things, lest they perish” Now in my 78th year, I under- step without being lifted up by his (D&C 19:22). stand what President Kimball was friends. We must be careful lest we make seeing; I know what he meant. That Those who come into the Church that first step too high or design it boy in Cuzco and the one in Japan come as children spiritually. They for those with strong, long legs and and the other children about the need someone—some friend—to lift leave the others without some friend world profoundly influence what I them up. to lift them up. think and how I feel and what I pray If we design the steps after When some disciples rebuked for most earnestly. I constantly think

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 9 of little children and their parents who struggle to raise them in ever- more perilous times. Like my Brethren, I have traveled THE LAW OF TITHING all over the world. Like my Brethren, Elder Earl C. Tingey I have held positions of trust in edu- Of the Presidency of the Seventy cation, in business, in government, and in the Church. I have written books, and, like them, have received honors, degrees, certificates, plaques. The Lord has established the law of tithing as the Such honors come with the territory law of revenue of His Church. . . . It is also a law and are undeserved. Assessing the value of those by which we show our loyalty to the Lord. things, the one thing I treasure more than any of them—more than all of them put together—the thing of most value to me is how our sons that a movie was 20 cents and candy and daughters and their husbands cost only 5 cents, I now realize I was and wives treat their children and probably overpaid. how, in turn, our grandchildren treat As I looked through this journal their little ones. of more than 50 years ago, I noted When it comes to understanding that every week during the years our relationship with our Heavenly 1944 and 1945, I paid tithing of 10 Father, the things my wife and I have percent of my income for that week. learned as parents and grandparents In December 1944 I recorded that I that are of most worth knowing, we had paid $12.35 in tithing that year— have learned from our children. a full tithing. This blessing has come to me This is where and how I learned as a gift from my wife. The Lord to pay tithing. said of such women, “[A wife is My wife and I taught our children given to a man] to multiply and re- the importance of setting aside plenish the earth, according to my tithing each week as they received an commandment, and to fulfil the allowance or earned money babysit- promise which was given by my ting or doing special jobs. They put Father before the foundation of ast Christmas I received a special the tithing in a little box. On fast the world, and for their exaltation gift from my mother. She had Sunday they gave the tithing to the in the eternal worlds, that they carefully kept in her posses- bishop. They also learned the value may bear the souls of men; for Lsion over these many years a little of money by saving a goodly portion herein is the work of my Father book I first received from my parents of the balance of their income for a continued, that he may be glorified” in 1944, when I was 10 years of age. future mission and education. (D&C 132:63). This is the book. It is a journal in Our grandchildren are now fol- With women such as this to be the which I was taught to record on a lowing a similar pattern. mothers of children, we see why the weekly basis my income and expenses. Let us teach this principle to our Lord revealed “that great things may As an example, my entry for the children and be sure they see us pay- be required at the hand of their fa- week of 29 July 1944 records that I ing tithing. President Joseph F. Smith thers” (D&C 29:48). started the week with $24.05 on said, “Our children, as soon as they I bear witness that the gospel is hand and earned $7.00 working on become old enough to earn means, true, and the power of it is to bless lit- our family farm. For expenses, I should be taught to pay their tithing, tle children. I pray earnestly that the spent 5 cents for candy, $3.45 for a that their names may be written in children and youth and their parents purchase, 20 cents for a movie, and the book of the law of the Lord.”1 will receive the gift of the Holy $2.37 for personal clothing. I also in- In my day, in Primary, we learned Ghost, that it will be a guide and a vested $20.00 in a war savings bond this little poem: protection to them, that it will bear in and paid 70 cents tithing. I ended the their hearts the testimony that Jesus week with $4.28 on hand. What is tithing? is the Christ, the Son of God, the I remember questioning my father I will tell you every time. Only Begotten of the Father. In the whether my wage of 25 cents an hour Ten cents from a dollar name of Jesus Christ, amen. might be increased. But remembering And a penny from a dime.

10 The doctrine of paying tithing is woven like a tapestry throughout the scriptures. Abraham paid tithing to Melchizedek.2 The children of Israel were taught to bring their tithes to the Lord.3 Probably the most quoted scripture on the subject of tithing in the Old Testament is found in Malachi: “Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”4 The amount of tithing we pay is the most perfect and equitable ar- rangement of which I know. It is one- tenth of our increase. All, from the poorest to the richest, pay the same percentage. Christ taught that princi- ple in the story of the widow’s mite: “And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people I was recently in Independence, scriptures and read section 119 of cast money into the treasury: and Missouri, and felt a need to drive an the Doctrine and Covenants. This many that were rich cast in much. hour north to Far West. The Latter- revelation was given through the “And there came a certain poor day Saints settled Far West in 1836 as Prophet Joseph Smith at Far West widow, and she threw in two mites, a place of refuge from persecution. on 8 July 1838, in the midst of these which make a farthing. Far West became the county seat, persecutions: “And he called unto him his disci- with an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 in- “And this shall be the beginning of ples, and saith unto them, Verily I habitants. It was the headquarters of the tithing of my people. say unto you, That this poor widow the Church for a season. My own an- “And after that, those who have hath cast more in, than all they cestors lived there. thus been tithed shall pay one-tenth which have cast into the treasury: As I arrived at Far West and of all their interest annually; and this “For all they did cast in of their looked about, all I could see was shall be a standing law unto them abundance; but she of her want did rolling farmlands. There was no city, forever, for my holy priesthood, saith cast in all that she had, even all her no roads or buildings. There was the Lord.”6 living.”5 only a peaceful, grassy temple site I thought to myself that the law of A mite is a very small coin. It was containing four cornerstones, sur- tithing could not have been received the smallest bronze coin used by the rounded by a modest fence. by the members of the Church at a Jews. It was one-sixty-fourth of a In 1838 the Saints were driven less opportune time than then. But Roman silver penny. from Far West. Joseph Smith and they received it, and the members In this dispensation, the Lord has others were arrested and taken to commenced living this new law at a established the law of tithing as the the nearby Liberty Jail. There they time when they were losing their law of revenue of His Church. languished under the most horrible possessions and, in some cases, their Without it, we could not carry out conditions imaginable for six lives. As I visited Far West, I gained a the eternal purposes of the Lord. It is months. My own ancestors suffered spiritual testimony of the law of also a law by which we show our terribly in Far West and almost lost tithing that was stronger and deeper loyalty to the Lord and prove our- their lives. than I had ever before felt. selves worthy for privileges, ordi- As I stood in Far West and visual- I would like to offer a word of nances, and blessings. ized what it once was, I opened my counsel to the many thousands of

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 11 tenth of her eggs, the tenth pig, the tenth calf, the tenth colt—a tenth of everything she raised.”8 I was once teaching the law of tithing to a group of Church leaders in Africa. One brother said, “Elder Tingey, how can I pay tithing when I have no income?” I inquired and de- termined that he had a large family of seven or eight children and was un- employed. I asked how he fed his fam- ily. He said he had a small garden and raised geese. I asked, “What do the geese do?” He replied, “They lay eggs.” I responded, “What if one morning you discovered 10 geese eggs in the nests of your geese?” A light flickered on in his soul. “I could take one egg and give it to my branch pres- ident,” he answered. He understood, and he could become a full-tithe payer. As we pay and teach our children to pay tithing, we develop a family that is deeply rooted in making and keeping temple covenants. The most glorious of all blessings we receive in this life and in the eternities are blessings that come from knowing that our families are sealed together for all eternity. Today some may find that they are denying themselves these privileges by their failure to pay tithing. To those who find them- selves in this situation, my counsel is to exercise your faith, prove the Lord herewith, and pay your tithing. members joining the Church today who stated that because of her A special peace that will surpass all as a result of the diligent efforts of poverty, she should not have to pay understanding will come to you and our missionaries. Exercise your faith. her tithing. She said: “ ‘Would you your family as you pay a full tithing. Pay your tithing. This law may be dif- deny me a blessing? If I did not pay You will find that all fears concerning ferent from that to which you were my tithing, I should expect the Lord to finances and care of family will di- accustomed prior to your baptism. withhold his blessings from me. I pay minish. You will come to know that But nothing you do as a new convert my tithing, not only because it is a law your Heavenly Father loves you. will more completely prepare you to of God, but because I expect a blessing I am grateful that my parents enjoy the wonderful blessings that by doing it. By keeping this and other taught me to pay tithing. I bear my await you—even temple blessings— laws, I expect to prosper, and to be humble testimony that paying than paying your tithing. able to provide for my family.’ ”7 tithing is a true principle of the Now, a brief word of counsel to Did she prosper? Her son and gospel of Jesus Christ. In the name missionaries. Teach tithing to your grandson became presidents of the of Jesus Christ, amen. investigators in such a way that they Church, and her descendants today will gain a testimony of this wonder- include a member of the Quorum NOTES 1. Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed. (1939), 231. ful principle of the gospel. of the Twelve Apostles and many 2. See Gen. 14:20. Joseph F. Smith’s mother was notable Church leaders. 3. See Deut. 12:6. known as “Widow Smith.” She was Speaking of his mother, Joseph F. 4. Mal. 3:8, 10. the widow of Hyrum Smith, who was Smith once said she paid “tithes of 5. Mark 12:41–44. 6. D&C 119:3–4. martyred with the Prophet Joseph. her sheep and cattle, the tenth pound 7. Gospel Doctrine, 229. She once rebuked the tithing clerk of her butter, her tenth chicken, the 8. Gospel Doctrine, 229.

12 in ways that the very best mirror could not reflect. Susanna had prayed for strength and found it— DEVELOPING deep within her soul. This is the kind of inner strength I would like to talk about. How do you and I become so converted to INNER STRENGTH the truth, so full of faith, so depen- Mary Ellen W. Smoot dent on God that we are able to meet Recently Released Relief Society General President trials and even be strengthened by them? It does not take much living to How do you and I become so converted to the truth, find out that life almost never turns so full of faith, so dependent on God that we are able out the way you planned it. Ad- versity and affliction come to every- to meet trials and even be strengthened by them? one. Do you know anyone who would not like to change something about themselves or their circum- stances? And yet I am sure you know and other skills, into the lives of many who go forward with faith. women throughout the world.” You are drawn to those people, in- We have as our guides the Relief spired by them, and even strength- Society declaration; home, family, ened by their examples. and personal enrichment meetings; Over the past five years I have and the visiting teaching program. met with sisters from Africa to Spain These tools have been carefully eval- who are pioneers in their own right. I uated and are now in place to help have marveled at their inner sisters expand their inner strength strength, and I have been inspired by through service and unity. the depth of their testimonies. These To demonstrate the kind of inner are sisters who live the truths that strength I am talking about, I would the Relief Society declaration affirms. like to share the story of Susanna The declaration reminds us of Stone Lloyd, who at the age of 26 left who we really are and why we do England in 1856 and traveled to the things we do. The more we live Utah alone. The only member of her by its precepts, the more inner family to join the Church, Susanna strength we will have. We will mirror was a member of the Willie Handcart our beliefs. Fasting, prayer, and scrip- n behalf of my counselors Company. Like so many other pio- ture study impact our relationship and the Relief Society gen- neers, she endured life-threatening with the Savior. I would like to high- eral board, we acknowledge hunger, illness, and fatigue. light two more ways we can develop Othe members of the Church world- Upon arriving in the Salt Lake inner strength: wide, and specifically the women, Valley, Susanna borrowed a mirror to who through their faithfulness and make herself more presentable. SERVICE devotion, make sacrifices of their Despite her best efforts, she re- time and talents to bless the lives of counts: “I shall never forget how I When we are truly converted, our individuals and families around the looked. Some of my old friends did focus shifts from self to others. We world. not know me.”1 Having sold her can find inner strength through ser- In the blessing President Gordon B. own mirror to an Indian for a piece vice. Nothing would please the ad- Hinckley gave me when I was set of buffalo meat, she had not spent versary more than for us to be apart, he spoke of the service the much time looking at herself. Now distracted by selfish concerns and ap- Relief Society can render. He said, she did not recognize her own im- petites. But we know better. Service “This is a tremendous organization, age. She was a different person, both will help us to stay on course. perhaps the largest and oldest of its inside and out. Over the course of At women’s conferences; at home, kind in all the world. Its mission is to rocky ridges and extreme hardship family, and personal enrichment do good and to help those in distress came a deep conviction. Her faith meetings; and, most importantly, in and need, to bring about the processes had been tried, and her conversion our own homes, I have been inspired of education, good homemaking, was concrete. She had been refined by your acts of service.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 13 teach. You will be strengthened spiritually. No matter our circumstances, who of us can afford to waste our life in front of the mirrors of self-pity and discouragement? Yes, as the Apostle Paul admonished, we all need to “examine ourselves”5 from time to time. We all need to repent, to recognize weaknesses, and more fully come unto Christ. Like Susanna, we may have to sell our looking glass in order to cross the plains of pain, sorrow, and discour- agement. But as we do, we will dis- cover God-given strengths that we may not have otherwise known. President Joseph F. Smith spoke with great feeling of the inner strength of pioneer women. He said: “Death was nothing to them. Hardship was nothing. Cold or rain, or heat, was nothing to them. All Just a few weeks ago I received a Unity of purpose, thought, and they felt and knew and desired was call from the Area President in the feeling are exalting qualities. When the triumph of the kingdom of God Europe Central Area. He said the we can put aside our differences and and the truth that the Lord had members and missionaries in Albania value each others’ strengths, great given to them.” And then, with all and Moldova were so cold, and he things happen. The Prophet Joseph the sincerity of a prophet of God, he wondered if the Relief Society might Smith admonished, “Don’t be lim- pled, “My soul, where are these have any quilts to send their way. ited in your views with regard to women now?”6 Imagine the joy I felt as I visited with your neighbor’s virtue. . . . You must I am here today to witness to you Humanitarian Service and discov- enlarge your souls towards each that such women are all around the ered that we could donate 1,000 other.”3 Such generosity of spirit in- world in the Relief Societies of the quilts. Within days they were pack- vites greater unity. Church. I am grateful beyond mea- aged and sent. The mission president I have visited stakes and wards sure for the opportunity that is mine wrote, “Members here were touched that are united. The auxiliary presi- to see these women in our time who that other members would be think- dencies are supporting each other have “waxed strong in the knowl- ing of them.” Thank you for your and coordinating their efforts; they edge of the truth.”7 With all my selfless service. are sustaining their priesthood lead- heart, I know that the Lord can Sisters, take a close look at the ers and together striving to bring “make weak things become strong.”8 suggested topics for home, family, families to Christ. As the kingdom of I know this is His work and His and personal enrichment meeting God rolls forth, we must unite our kingdom. I know that each of us can and find ways to build spiritual efforts in saving souls. mirror the Savior by the way we strength, develop personal skills, As a Relief Society general presi- choose to live our lives. In the name strengthen the home and family, and dency we are grateful for the new of Jesus Christ, amen. provide gospel service. By so doing, emphasis in visiting teaching.4 The we will become less preoccupied new messages invite sisters to read NOTES with our problems and more depen- from their scriptures and from the 1. In Carol Cornwall Madsen, comp., Journey to Zion: Voices from the Mormon Trail dent on God. teachings of the First Presidency and (1997), 634. other General Authorities about a 2. D&C 38:27. UNITY principle of the gospel. Sisters are 3. Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith (1976), 228. then encouraged to share insights 4. See “For Such a Time as This,” Ensign, Another way we can develop in- and experiences about how living Jan. 2002, 64–66. ner strength is by striving for unity in the principle has blessed their lives. 5. See 1 Cor. 11:28. our families, stakes, wards, and presi- Sisters, if you will follow this for- 6. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith (1998), 189. dencies. The Lord Himself taught, mat, you will feel more unity with 7. Alma 17:2. “If ye are not one ye are not mine.”2 your companion and with those you 8. Ether 12:27.

14 “he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.”3 Nets are generally defined as de- “FOLLOW ME” vices for capturing something. In a Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin more narrow but more important Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles sense, we might define a net as any- thing that entices or prevents us from following the call of Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God. Those who, in faith, leave their nets and follow the Nets in this context can be our Savior will experience happiness beyond their ability work, our hobbies, our pleasures, and, above all else, our temptations to comprehend. and sins. In short, a net can be any- thing that pulls us away from our re- lationship with our Heavenly Father or from His restored Church. might be, “If the Savior were to call Let me give you a modern exam- you today, would you be just as will- ple. A computer can be a useful and ing to leave your nets and follow indispensable tool. But if we allow it Him?” I am confident that many to devour our time with vain, unpro- would. ductive, and sometimes destructive But for some, it may not be such pursuits, it becomes an entangling an easy decision. Some have discov- net. ered that nets, by their very nature, Many of us enjoy watching ath- are sometimes not so easy to leave. letic contests, but if we can recite the Nets come in many sizes and statistics of our favorite players and shapes. The nets that Peter, Andrew, at the same time forget birthdays or James, and John left were tangible anniversaries, neglect our families, or objects—tools that helped them earn ignore the opportunity to render acts a living. of Christlike service, then athletics We sometimes think of these four may also be an entangling net. men as modest fishermen who did Since the days of Adam, mankind not sacrifice much when they left has, by the sweat of his brow, earned their nets to follow the Savior. To the his daily bread. But when our work hey were fishermen before contrary, as Elder James E. Talmage, consumes us to the point where the they heard the call. Casting in Jesus the Christ, points out, Peter, spiritual dimensions of life are ne- their nets into the Sea of Andrew, James, and John were part- glected, work can also be an entan- TGalilee, Peter and Andrew stopped ners in a prosperous business. They gling net. as Jesus of Nazareth approached, “owned their boats and gave em- Some have been ensnared in the looked into their eyes, and spoke the ployment to other men.” According net of excessive debt. The net of inter- simple words, “Follow me.” Matthew to Elder Talmage, Simon Peter “was est holds them fast, requiring them to writes that the two fishermen well to do in a material way; and sell their time and energies to meet “straightway left their nets, and fol- when he once spoke of having left all the demands of creditors. They sur- lowed him.” to follow Jesus, the Lord did not render their freedom, becoming Then the Son of Man approached deny that Peter’s sacrifice of tempo- slaves to their own extravagance. two other fishermen who were in a ral possessions was . . . great.”2 It is impossible to list the many nets ship with their father, mending their Later, the net of wealth entrapped that can ensnare us and keep us from nets. Jesus called to them, “and a rich young man who claimed that following the Savior. But if we are sin- [James and John] immediately left he had obeyed all the command- cere in our desire to follow Him, we the ship and their father, and fol- ments from his youth. When he must straightway leave the world’s lowed [the Lord].”1 asked the Savior what else he should entangling nets and follow Him. Have you ever wondered what it do to have eternal life, the Master I do not know of another period must have been like to have lived in said, “If thou wilt be perfect, go and in the history of the world that has the days of the Savior? If you had sell that thou hast, and give to the been so filled with such a variety of been there, would you have heeded poor, and thou shalt have treasure in entangling nets. Our lives are so eas- His call “Follow me”? heaven: and come and follow me.” ily filled with appointments, meet- Perhaps a more realistic question When the young man heard that, ings, and tasks. It is so easy to get

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 15 Seven senior members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles face the congregation from their seats on the rostrum.

caught in a multitude of nets that who always made it possible for me taught, “and I will give you rest.”5 sometimes even a suggestion of to serve the Lord. But it is not merely peace that the breaking free of them can be threat- There was simply too much to do Savior promises to those who keep ening and even frightening to us. in the time available. Instead of sacri- His commandments and endure to Sometimes we feel that the busier ficing things of significance, I de- the end, but eternal life, “which gift we are, the more important we are— cided I’d get up earlier, take care of is the greatest of all the gifts of as though our busyness defines our my business, then spend the time re- God.”6 worth. Brothers and sisters, we can quired to be a good father and hus- Because of the Savior, we will live spend a lifetime whirling about at a band and a faithful member of the forever. Immortality means that we feverish pace, checking off list after Church. It wasn’t easy. There were will never die. But eternal life means list of things that in the end really mornings when the alarm clock to live forever in exalted spheres in don’t matter. went off that I cracked open an eye- companionship with those we cher- That we do a lot may not be so lid and glared at it, daring it to keep ish, encompassed about by profound important. That we focus the energy ringing. love, exquisite joy, and glory. of our minds, our hearts, and our Nevertheless, the Lord was merci- No amount of money can pur- souls on those things of eternal sig- ful and helped me to find the energy chase this exalted state. Eternal life is nificance—that is essential. and time to do all I had committed to a gift from a loving Heavenly Father, As the clatter and clamor of life do. Although it was difficult, I have offered freely and liberally to all who bustle about us, we hear shouting to never regretted making the choice to heed the call of the Man of Galilee. “come here” and to “go there.” In the heed the Savior’s call and follow Unfortunately, many are too en- midst of the noise and seductive Him. tangled in their nets to heed the call. voices that compete for our time and Think of the debt we owe to Him. The Savior explained that, “Ye be- interest, a solitary figure stands on Jesus is “the resurrection, and the lieve not, because ye are not of my the shores of the Sea of Galilee, call- life: he that believeth in [Him], sheep. . . . My sheep hear my voice, ing quietly to us, “Follow me.” though he were dead, yet shall he and I know them, and they follow We can easily get our lives out of live.”4 There are those who have me.”7 balance. I remember a few years that great wealth, yet they would give How do we follow the Savior? By were particularly challenging for me. their all to add just a few additional exercising faith. By believing in Him. Our family had grown to seven chil- years, months, or even days to their By believing in our Heavenly Father. dren. I had served as a counselor in mortal lives. What should we be will- By believing that God speaks to man the bishopric and was then given the ing to give for eternal life? on earth today. sacred call as bishop of our ward. I There are those who would give We follow the Savior by repenting was striving to manage our business all they have to experience peace. of our sins—by experiencing sorrow that required long hours each day. I “Come unto me, all ye that labour because of them and forsaking them. pay tribute to my wonderful wife, and are heavy laden,” the Savior We follow the Savior by entering

16 the waters of baptism and receiving Church and demanded that she re- We have nets that must be a remission of our sins, by receiving cant and forsake her new religion. tended and nets that must be the gift of the Holy Ghost and allow- Even through the rage, the bitter- mended. But when the Master of ing that influence to inspire, instruct, ness, and the indignity, her faith re- ocean, earth, and sky calls to us, guide, and comfort us. mained strong. She endured the “Follow me,” we should leave the How do we follow the Savior? By verbal and emotional abuse, know- entangling, worldly nets behind obeying Him. He and our Heavenly ing she had heard the call of the and follow His footsteps. Father have given us command- Savior and she would follow Him, My brothers and sisters, I pro- ments—not to punish or torment us, whatever the consequence. claim with joyful voice that the but to help us come to a fulness of Eventually this young woman gospel is restored once again! The joy, both in this life and for the eter- managed to find a safe haven, a heavens opened to the Prophet nities to come, worlds without end. place of refuge with a kind member Joseph Smith, and he saw and con- In contrast, when we cling to our family far away from the threats and versed with God the Father and His sins, our pleasures, and sometimes unkindness of her father. Son, Jesus Christ. Under divine di- even our perceived obligations; resist She met a faithful young man, rection and tutelage from celestial the influence of the Holy Ghost; and and the two of them were married in beings, eternal truths are restored put aside the words of the prophets; the temple, receiving the choice once again to man! we then stand at the shore of our blessings that accompany a temple In our day another great prophet own Galilee, nets tightly entangling marriage. lives, who daily adds his witness to us. We find ourselves unable to leave Today she stands among the these hallowed truths. President them behind and follow the living multitude of those who have sacri- Gordon B. Hinckley stands in his sa- Christ. ficed so much to follow the call of cred office as the mouthpiece of our But the Shepherd calls to each of the Savior. Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. At his us today. Will we recognize the voice Yes, I do not suggest that the road side stand his noble counselors. In of the Son of God? Will we follow will be easy. But I will give you my addition, he has the sustaining sup- Him? witness that those who, in faith, port of the Quorum of the Twelve May I extend a word of caution? leave their nets and follow the Savior Apostles, the Quorums of the There are those who feel that if we will experience happiness beyond Seventy, and the millions of mem- follow the Savior, our lives will be their ability to comprehend. bers throughout the world who as- free from worry, pain, and fear. This As I meet the wonderful members sist him, each adding his voice to is not so! The Savior Himself was de- of this Church—both young and proclaim the glorious Restoration of scribed as a man of sorrows.8 Those old—I am encouraged and filled the gospel that is once again restored early disciples who followed the with gratitude for the faithfulness of unto man! Christ experienced great persecution those who have heard the call of the Jesus the Christ is “the way, the and trials. The Prophet Joseph Smith Savior and have followed Him. truth, and the life: no [one] cometh was no exception. Nor were the For example, a steelworker fol- unto the Father, but by [Him].”9 As a other early Saints of this last dispen- lows the Savior. Day after day, over a special witness of Him, I testify to sation. And it is no different today. period of more than three decades, you this day that the time will come I have had the opportunity to he pulled out his scriptures to read when every man, woman, and child speak with a woman who heard the during lunch break as his coworkers will look into the Savior’s loving call of the Savior when she was 18. chided him. The 70-year-old widow eyes. On that day, we will know with Her father, who was a high official in confined to her wheelchair—who, to a surety the worth of our decision to another church, became angry with everyone who visits, cheers their straightway follow Him. her and forbade her from being bap- spirits and never fails to tell them of That each of us may hear the call tized. He let her know that if she be- how fortunate she is—follows the of the Master and straightway leave came a member of The Church of Savior. The child who seeks through our entangling nets and joyfully fol- Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she prayer to commune with the Master low Him is my earnest prayer in the would be ostracized from the family. of the universe follows the Savior. name of Jesus Christ, amen. Even though the sacrifice was The wealthy member who gives so great, this young woman heeded the generously to the Church and his fel- NOTES call of the Savior and entered the lowmen follows the Savior. 1. See Matt. 4:18–22. 2. (1916), 218. waters of baptism. As Jesus the Christ stood on the 3. Matt. 19:21–22. Her father could not accept her shores of the Sea of Galilee 2,000 4. John 11:25. decision, however, and tried to force years ago, so stands He today, issuing 5. Matt. 11:28. her into abandoning her new faith. the same call He gave to those faith- 6. D&C 14:7. 7. John 10:26–27. He and his wife reviled her for her ful fishermen and now to all who 8. See Isa. 53:3; Mosiah 14:3. decision to become a member of the will hear His voice: “Follow me!” 9. John 14:6.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 17 “Early the next morning, the farmer went out to mourn his loss. . . . “Then, his eyes caught sight of HIDDEN WEDGES something in the splintered ruin. President Thomas S. Monson ‘The wedge,’ he muttered reproach- First Counselor in the First Presidency fully. ‘The wedge I found in the south pasture.’ A glance told him why the tree had fallen. Growing, edge-up in the trunk, the wedge had Let’s not pass to future generations the grievances, prevented the limb fibers from knit- the anger of our time. Let’s remove any hidden ting together as they should.”1 My dear brothers and sisters, wedges that can do nothing but destroy. there are hidden wedges in the lives of many whom we know—yes, per- haps in our own families. Let me share with you the ac- his father’s homestead. The sawmill count of a lifelong friend, now de- had then only recently been moved parted from mortality. His name was from the valley, and the settlers were Leonard. He was not a member of still finding tools and odd pieces of the Church, although his wife and equipment scattered about. . . . children were. His wife served as a “On this particular day, it was a Primary president; his son served an faller’s wedge—wide, flat, and heavy, honorable mission. His daughter and a foot or more long, and splayed from his son married companions in mighty poundings [—which the lad solemn ceremonies and had families found] . . . in the south pasture. [A of their own. faller’s wedge, used to help fell a tree, Everyone who knew Leonard is inserted in a cut made by a saw and liked him, as did I. He supported his then struck with a sledge hammer to wife and children in their Church as- widen the cut.] . . . Because he was al- signments. He attended many ready late for dinner, the lad laid the Church-sponsored events with them. wedge . . . between the limbs of the He lived a good and a clean life, even young walnut tree his father had a life of service and kindness. His planted near the front gate. He would family, and indeed many others, n April 1966, at the Church’s an- take the wedge to the shed right after wondered why Leonard had gone nual general conference, Elder dinner, or sometime when he was go- through mortality without the bless- Spencer W. Kimball gave a memo- ing that way. ings the gospel brings to its members. rableI address. He quoted an account “He truly meant to, but he never In Leonard’s advanced years, his written by Samuel T. Whitman enti- did. [The wedge] was there between health declined. Eventually he was tled “Forgotten Wedges.” Today I, the limbs, a little tight, when he at- hospitalized, and life was ebbing too, have chosen to quote from tained his manhood. It was there, away. In what turned out to be my Samuel T. Whitman, followed by ex- now firmly gripped, when he mar- last conversation with Leonard, he amples from my own life. ried and took over his father’s farm. said, “Tom, I’ve known you since Whitman wrote: “The ice storm It was half grown over on the day you were a boy. I feel persuaded to [that winter] wasn’t generally de- the threshing crew ate dinner under explain to you why I have never structive. True, a few wires came the tree. . . . Grown in and healed joined the Church.” He then related down, and there was a sudden jump over, the wedge was still in the tree an experience of his parents which in accidents along the highway. . . . the winter the ice storm came. took place many, many years before. Normally, the big walnut tree could “In the chill silence of that wintry Reluctantly, the family had reached a easily have borne the weight that night . . . one of the three major point where they felt it was neces- formed on its spreading limbs. It was limbs split away from the trunk and sary to sell their farm, and an offer the iron wedge in its heart that crashed to the ground. This so un- had been received. Then a neighbor- caused the damage. balanced the remainder of the top ing farmer asked that the farm be “The story of the iron wedge be- that it, too, split apart and went sold to him instead—although at a gan years ago when the white-haired down. When the storm was over, lesser price—adding, “We’ve been farmer [who now inhabited the prop- not a twig of the once-proud tree such close friends. This way, if I own erty on which it stood] was a lad on remained. the property, I’ll be able to watch

18 over it.” At length Leonard’s parents agreed, and the farm was sold. The buyer—even the neighbor—held a responsible position in the Church, and the trust this implied helped to persuade the family to sell to him, even though they did not realize as much money from the sale as they would have if they had sold to the first interested buyer. Not long after the sale was made, the neighbor sold both his own farm and the farm ac- quired from Leonard’s family in a combined parcel which maximized the value and hence the selling price. The long-asked question of why Leonard had never joined the Church had been answered. He al- ways felt that his family had been deceived by the neighbor. He confided to me following our conversation that he felt a great burden had at last been lifted as he prepared to meet his Maker. The tragedy is that a hidden wedge had kept Leonard from soaring to greater heights. A man hurrying to a session dashes down the steps to the Conference Center plaza. I am acquainted with a family which came to America from apologized. With the hurt still evi- There are some who have diffi- Germany. The English language was dent in his expression, but with tears culty forgiving themselves and who difficult for them. They had but little in his eyes, the father accepted the dwell on all of their perceived short- by way of means, but each was apology, and the two embraced in a comings. I quite like the account of a blessed with the will to work and spirit of understanding. No hidden religious leader who went to the side with a love of God. wedge was left to cause further feel- of a woman who lay dying, attempt- Their third child was born, lived ings of anger. Love and acceptance ing to comfort her—but to no avail. but two months, and then died. prevailed. “I am lost,” she said. “I’ve ruined my Father was a cabinetmaker and fash- The spirit must be freed from life and every life around me. There ioned a beautiful casket for the body tethers so strong and feelings never is no hope for me.” of his precious child. The day of the put to rest, so that the lift of life may The man noticed a framed picture funeral was gloomy, thus reflecting give buoyancy to the soul. In many of a lovely girl on the dresser. “Who the sadness they felt in their loss. As families, there are hurt feelings and a is this?” he asked. the family walked to the chapel, with reluctance to forgive. It doesn’t really The woman brightened. “She is Father carrying the tiny casket, a matter what the issue was. It cannot my daughter, the one beautiful thing small number of friends had gath- and should not be left to injure. in my life.” ered. However, the chapel door was Blame keeps wounds open. Only “And would you help her if she locked. The busy bishop had forgot- forgiveness heals. George Herbert, were in trouble or had made a mis- ten the funeral. Attempts to reach an early 17th-century poet, wrote take? Would you forgive her? Would him were futile. Not knowing what these lines: “He that cannot forgive you still love her?” to do, the father placed the casket others breaks the bridge over which “Of course I would!” cried the under his arm and, with his family he himself must pass if he would woman. “I would do anything beside him, carried it home, walking ever reach heaven, for everyone has for her. Why do you ask such a in a drenching rain. need of forgiveness.” question?” If the family were of a lesser char- Beautiful are the words of the “Because I want you to know,” said acter, they could have blamed the Savior as He was about to die upon the man, “that figuratively speaking, bishop and harbored ill feelings. the cruel cross. Said He, “Father, for- Heavenly Father has a picture of you When the bishop discovered the give them; for they know not what on His dresser. He loves you and will tragedy, he visited the family and they do.”2 help you. Call upon Him.”

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 19 A lovely lady of more than 90 years visited with me one day and unexpectedly recounted several re- grets. She mentioned that many years earlier a neighboring farmer, with whom she and her husband had occasionally disagreed, asked if he could take a shortcut across her property to reach his own acreage. She paused in her narrative and, with a tremor in her voice, said, “Tommy, I didn’t let him cross our property but required him to take the long way around—even on foot—to reach his property. I was wrong and I regret it. He’s gone now, but oh, I wish I could say to him, ‘I’m so sorry.’ How I wish I had a second chance.” As I listened to her, the words writ- ten by John Greenleaf Whittier came into my mind: “Of all sad words of tongue or pen, / The saddest are these: ‘It might have been!’ ”5 From 3 Nephi in the Book of Mormon comes this inspired coun- sel: “There shall be no disputations A hidden wedge to her happiness York, that following a quarrel, they among you. . . . For verily, verily I say had been removed. had divided the room in half with a unto you, he that hath the spirit of In a day of danger or a time of chalk line and neither had crossed contention is not of me, but is of the trial, such knowledge, such hope, the line or spoken a word to the devil, who is the father of con- such understanding will bring com- other since that day—62 years be- tention, and he stirreth up the hearts fort to the troubled mind and griev- fore. What a powerful and destruc- of men to contend with anger, one ing heart. The entire message of the tive hidden wedge. with another. Behold, this is not my New Testament breathes a spirit of As Alexander Pope wrote, “To err doctrine, to stir up the hearts of men awakening to the human soul. is human; to forgive, divine.”4 with anger, one against another; but Shadows of despair are dispelled by Sometimes we can take offense so this is my doctrine, that such things rays of hope, sorrow yields to joy, easily. On other occasions we are too should be done away.”6 and the feeling of being lost in the stubborn to accept a sincere apology. Let me conclude with an account crowd of life vanishes with the cer- Who will subordinate ego, pride, of two men who are heroes to me. tain knowledge that our Heavenly and hurt—then step forward with, “I Their acts of courage were not per- Father is mindful of each of us. am truly sorry! Let’s be as we once formed on a national scale, but The Savior provided assurance of were: friends. Let’s not pass to future rather in a peaceful valley known as this truth when He taught that even generations the grievances, the Midway, Utah. a sparrow shall not fall to the ground anger of our time.” Let’s remove any Long years ago, Roy Kohler and unnoticed by our Father. He then hidden wedges that can do nothing Grant Remund served together in concluded the beautiful thought by but destroy. Church capacities. They were the saying, “Fear ye not therefore, ye Where do hidden wedges origi- best of friends. They were tillers of are of more value than many nate? Some come from unresolved the soil and dairymen. Then a mis- sparrows.”3 disputes, which lead to ill feelings, understanding arose which became Some time ago I read the follow- followed by remorse and regret. somewhat of a rift between them. ing Associated Press dispatch, which Others find their beginnings in dis- Later, when Roy Kohler became appeared in the newspaper. An el- appointments, jealousies, arguments, grievously ill with cancer and had derly man disclosed at the funeral of and imagined hurts. We must solve but a limited time to live, my wife his brother, with whom he had them—lay them to rest and not leave Frances and I visited Roy and his shared, from early manhood, a small, them to canker, fester, and ultimately wife, and I gave him a blessing. As one-room cabin near Canisteo, New destroy. we talked afterward, Brother Kohler

20 said, “Let me tell you about one of SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION the sweetest experiences I have had 6 April 2002 during my life.” He then recounted to me his misunderstanding with Grant Remund and the ensuing es- trangement. His comment was, “We THE SUSTAINING OF were sort of on the outs with each other.” “Then,” continued Roy, “I had just CHURCH OFFICERS put up our hay for the winter to President Thomas S. Monson come, when one night, as a result of First Counselor in the First Presidency spontaneous combustion, the hay caught fire, burning the hay, the barn, and everything in it right to the ground. I was devastated,” said Roy. the following as members of that “I didn’t know what in the world I quorum: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom would do. The night was dark, ex- Perry, David B. Haight, Neal A. cept for the dying embers of the fire. Maxwell, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Then I saw coming toward me from Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. the road, in the direction of Grant Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Remund’s place, the lights of tractors Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, and and heavy equipment. As the ‘rescue Henry B. Eyring. Those in favor, party’ turned in our drive and met please manifest it. Any opposed. me amidst my tears, Grant said, ‘Roy, It is proposed that we sustain the you’ve got quite a mess to clean up. counselors in the First Presidency My boys and I are here. Let’s get to and the Twelve Apostles as prophets, it.’ ” Together they plunged to the seers, and revelators. All in favor, task at hand. Gone forever was the please manifest it. Contrary, if there hidden wedge which had separated be any, by the same sign. them for a short time. They worked It is proposed that we sustain throughout the night and into the Elders Gerald N. Lund and next day, with many others in the William R. Walker as new mem- community joining in. y brothers and sisters, bers of the Second Quorum of the Roy Kohler has passed away, and President Hinckley has re- Seventy. All in favor, please mani- Grant Remund is getting older. Their quested that I, Brother fest it. Any opposed. sons have served together in the Monson,M now present to you the It is proposed that we release same ward bishopric. I truly treasure General Authorities, Area Authority Kay H. Christensen, Clayton S. the friendship of these two wonder- Seventies, and general auxiliary Huber, David López, Hyde M. ful families. presidencies of the Church for your Merrill, Adelson de Paula Parrella, May we ever be exemplary in our sustaining vote. and R. Gordon Porter as Area homes and faithful in keeping all of It is proposed that we sustain Authority Seventies. All in favor, the commandments, that we may Gordon Bitner Hinckley as prophet, please manifest it. harbor no hidden wedges but rather seer, and revelator and President of It is proposed that we sustain remember the Savior’s admonition: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- the following as Area Authority “By this shall all men know that ye day Saints; Thomas Spencer Monson Seventies: D. Allen Andersen, are my disciples, if ye have love one as First Counselor in the First David S. Baxter, C. Elmer Black Jr., to another.”7 Presidency; and James Esdras Faust G. Lynn Brenchley, Ildefonso This is my plea and my prayer, in as Second Counselor in the First de Castro Deus Neto, Clayton M. the name of Jesus Christ, amen. Presidency. Those in favor may man- Christensen, Ernesto A. Da Silva, ifest it. Those opposed, if any, may Hector A. Dávalos, James Dunlop, NOTES manifest it. James M. Dunn, I. Lee Ence, Carlos R. 1. In Conference Report, Apr. 1966, 70. 2. Luke 23:34. It is proposed that we sustain Fernandez, John R. Gibson, 3. Matt. 10:31. Thomas Spencer Monson as Stephen W. Hansen, Emmanuel A. 4. An Essay on Criticism (1711), part 2, line 525. President of the Quorum of the Kissi, B. Renato Maldonado, Jeffrey J. 5. “Maud Muller,” The Complete Poetical Tw elve Apostles; Boyd Kenneth Marchant, Gerald A. Mead, Hyae- Works of Whittier (1892), 48. 6. 3 Ne. 11:28–30. Packer as Acting President of the Kee Min, Rodrigo Myrrha, Masayuki 7. John 13:35. Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; and Nakano, Yasuo Niiyama, Carlos L.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 21 Pedraja, Carlos A. Perez, D. Chad Richardson, Maury W. Schooff, M. Gonzalo Sepúlveda, T. LaMar Sleight, John C. Taggart, Anthony R. CHURCH AUDITING Temple. All in favor, please manifest it. Any opposed, by the same sign. It is proposed that we release with a vote of thanks and sincere appreci- DEPARTMENT REPORT ation Mary Ellen Wood Smoot, Presented by Wesley L. Jones Virginia Urry Jensen, and Sheri L. Managing Director, Church Auditing Department Dew as the Relief Society general presidency. We also release all mem- bers of the Relief Society general To the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ board. All in favor, please manifest it. of Latter-day Saints It is proposed that we sustain Bonnie Rae Dansie Parkin as the new general president of the Relief Society, with Kathleen Hurst Hughes as first counselor and Anne Clark Pingree as second counselor. Those in favor may manifest it. Any op- posed may so signify. ear Brethren: The Church of Appropriation and Budget It is proposed that we sustain the Jesus Christ of Latter-day Committees. Administration of ap- other General Authorities, Area Saints maintains an auditing proved budgets was audited and Authority Seventies, and general Ddepartment which performs its work reported. auxiliary presidencies as presently independently from all other Church Based upon performance of our constituted. Those in favor, please departments and operations. The audits, the Church Auditing manifest it. Any opposed may mani- managing director of the Church Department is of the opinion that, in fest it. Auditing Department reports di- all material respects, contributions It appears, President Hinckley, rectly and regularly to the First received and funds expended during that the sustaining has been unani- Presidency. Church Auditing the year ended 31 December 2001 mous in the affirmative. Department staff consists of certified have been managed in accordance Thank you, brothers and sisters, public accountants, certified internal with approved budget guidelines for your continued faith and prayers. auditors, and other qualified, creden- and established Church policies and tialed professionals. procedures. Under the direction of the First The financial activities of Church- Presidency, the Church Auditing affiliated organizations, which are Department has authority to audit operated separately from the all Church departments and opera- Church, were not audited by the tions worldwide. The Church Church Auditing Department in Auditing Department has access to 2001. These organizations include all records, personnel, properties, Deseret Management Corporation and systems needed to audit Church and its subsidiaries and Brigham contributions, expenditures, and re- Young University and other institu- sources. Risk is the primary factor tions of higher education. However, guiding the selection and perfor- financial activities in these organiza- mance of audits. tions were audited by independent Expenditures of Church funds in public accounting firms. In addition, 2001 were authorized by the Council the Church Auditing Department on the Disposition of Tithes. This did verify that appropriate reporting council is composed of the First of these audit results occurred with Presidency, the Quorum of the each organization’s audit committee. Tw elve Apostles, and the Presiding Respectfully submitted, Bishopric, as prescribed by revela- AUDITING DEPARTMENT tion. Expenditures are controlled Wesley L. Jones through the Budget and Finance Managing Director Departments under direction of the 1 April 2002

22 Quarters Nebraska, Guadalajara Mexico, Perth Australia, STATISTICAL REPORT, 2001 Columbia River Washington) Presented by F. Michael Watson Number of temples in Secretary to the First Presidency operation ...... 107 PROMINENT MEMBERS WHO HAVE PASSED AWAY SINCE LAST APRIL

rothers and sisters, the First CHURCH MEMBERSHIP Elder Loren C. Dunn, an emeritus Presidency has issued the fol- General Authority and president of lowing report concerning the Total membership ...... 11,394,522 the Boston Massachusetts Temple at growthB and status of the Church as Increase in children the time of his passing; Elder Merlyn R. of 31 December 2001: of record ...... 69,522 Lybbert, a former member of the Converts baptized ...... 292,612 Seventy; Elder George R. Hill III, a former member of the Seventy; NUMBER OF CHURCH UNITS MISSIONARIES Phyllis Nielsen Reeve, wife of Rex C. Reeve Sr., an emeritus General Stakes ...... 2,607 Number of full-time Authority; Avanelle Richards Osborn, Districts ...... 618 missionaries ...... 60,850 wife of Spencer H. Osborn, a former Missions ...... 333 member of the Seventy; Naomi Ward Wards and branches ...... 26,084 TEMPLES Randall, a former counselor in the Primary general presidency and Te mples dedicated during 2001 . . . . 5 author of the words of the hymn (Montevideo Uruguay, Winter “I Am a Child of God.”

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 23 offended, yet will not I.” Then the Master soberly prophesied, “Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even in FULL CONVERSION this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.” To which Peter responded more vehe- mently, “If I should die with thee, I BRINGS HAPPINESS will not deny thee in any wise.”3 Elder Richard G. Scott For me, one of the most poignant Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles passages of scripture describes what then occurred. It is a sobering re- minder to each of us that knowing to Your happiness now and forever is conditioned do right, even ardently desiring to on your degree of conversion and the transformation do right, is not enough. It is often very hard to actually do what we that it brings to your life. clearly know we should do. We read: “But a certain maid beheld [Peter] . . . and said, This man was also with him. And he denied . . . saying, they resolved to abandon. Woman, I know him not. . . . Another What is it that makes the differ- saw him, and said, Thou art also of ence in the lives of these two groups? them. And Peter said, Man, I am not. How can you consistently make the . . . Another confidently affirmed, . . . right choices? The scriptures give us Of a truth this fellow also was with insight. Consider enthusiastic, im- him: . . . And Peter said, Man, I know petuous Peter. For three years he had not what thou sayest. And immedi- served as an Apostle beside the ately, while he yet spake, the cock Master, observing miracles and hear- crew. And the Lord turned, and ing transforming teachings and pri- looked upon Peter. And Peter remem- vate explanations of parables. With bered the word of the Lord, . . . and James and John, Peter experienced . . . went out, and wept bitterly.”4 the glorious Transfiguration of Jesus As painful as that confirmation of Christ with the accompanying visita- prophecy must have been for Peter, tions of Moses and Elijah.1 Yet with his life began to change forever. He all of this, the Savior could see that became that unwavering, rock-solid Peter still lacked consistency. The servant essential to the plan of the Master knew him very well, as He Father after the Crucifixion and ach of us has observed how does each of us. In the Bible, we read: Resurrection of the Savior. This some individuals go through “And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, tender passage also illustrates how life consistently doing the right behold, Satan hath desired to have very much the Savior loved Peter. Ethings. They seem happy, even en- you. . . . But I have prayed for thee, Although He was in the midst of an thusiastic about life. When difficult that thy faith fail not: and when overpowering challenge to His own choices are to be made, they seem to thou art converted, strengthen thy life, with all of the weight of what invariably make the right ones, even brethren. And he said unto him, was to transpire upon His shoulders, though there were enticing alterna- Lord, I am ready to go with thee, yet He turned and looked at Peter— tives available to them. We know both into prison, and to death.”2 the love of a teacher transmitted to a that they are subject to temptation, Certainly these were not, from the beloved student, giving courage and but they seem oblivious to it. perspective of Peter, idle words. He enlightenment in time of need. Likewise, we have observed how sincerely meant what he said but Thereafter, Peter rose to the full others are not so valiant in the deci- would act otherwise. stature of his calling. He taught with sions they make. In a powerfully Later, at the Mount of Olives, power and unshakable testimony spiritual environment, they resolve Jesus prophesied to His disciples, “All despite threats, imprisonment, and to do better, to change their course of ye shall be offended because of me beatings. He was truly converted. life, to set aside debilitating habits. this night: for it is written, I will Sometimes the word converted is They are very sincere in their deter- smite the shepherd, and the sheep used to describe when a sincere indi- mination to change, yet they are shall be scattered.” Peter again re- vidual decides to be baptized. soon back doing the same things sponded, “Although all shall be However, when properly used,

24 conversion means far more than that, for the new convert as well as the long-term member. With characteris- tic doctrinal clarity and precision, President Marion G. Romney ex- plained conversion: “Converted means to turn from one belief or course of action to an- other. Conversion is a spiritual and moral change. Converted implies not merely mental acceptance of Jesus and his teachings but also a motivat- ing faith in him and his gospel. A faith which works a transformation, an actual change in one’s under- standing of life’s meaning and in his allegiance to God in interest, in thought, and in conduct. In one who is really wholly converted, desire for things contrary to the gospel of Jesus Christ has actually died. And substi- led to repent of errors resulting from cometh immediately, and taketh tuted therefore is a love of God, with wrong things done or right things away the word that was sown in a fixed and controlling determina- not done. As a consequence, your their hearts.” tion to keep his commandments.” capacity to consistently obey will be Could that happen to you, in the To be converted, you must re- strengthened. This cycle of faith, re- wrong environment, with the wrong member to apply diligently in your pentance, and consistent obedience will friendships? life the key words “a love of God, lead you to greater conversion with “[Some] on stony ground; who, with a fixed and controlling determi- its attendant blessings. True conver- when they have heard the word, im- nation to keep his commandments.” sion will strengthen your capacity to mediately receive it with gladness; Your happiness now and forever is do what you know you should do, And have no root in themselves, and conditioned on your degree of con- when you should do it, regardless of so endure but for a time: afterward, version and the transformation that the circumstances. when . . . persecution ariseth . . . im- it brings to your life. How then can The parable of the sower taught by mediately they are offended.” you become truly converted? Jesus is generally considered to de- Have you ever been in a circum- President Romney describes the scribe how the word of the Lord is re- stance when someone proposed steps you must follow: ceived by different individuals as it is something inappropriate and you “Membership in the Church and preached. Consider for a moment how did nothing to resist it? conversion are not necessarily syn- the same parable may apply to you in “[Some] sown among thorns; onymous. Being converted and hav- different circumstances in your life, as such as hear the word, And the cares ing a testimony are not necessarily you face challenges or come under of this world . . . and the lusts of the same thing either. A testimony strong influences. The word, or teach- other things entering in, choke the comes when the Holy Ghost gives ings of the Savior, can come to you in word, and it becometh unfruitful.” the earnest seeker a witness of the many ways: as you observe others, or Have there been times when you truth. A moving testimony vitalizes through your own prayer or ponder- wanted something so badly that faith. That is, it induces repentance ing the scriptures, or through the guid- you justified an exception to your and obedience to the command- ance of the Holy Ghost. As I repeat the standards? ments. Conversion is the fruit or explanation that Jesus gave His disci- “[Some] sown on good ground; the reward for repentance and ples of the parable of the sower, men- such as hear the word, and receive it, obedience.”5 tally examine your life. See if there are and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, Stated simply, true conversion is periods when correct teachings find in some sixty, and some an hundred.”8 the fruit of faith, repentance, and you conditions unsuitable to receive I know this is the way you want to consistent obedience. Faith comes by them and consequently the promised live your life. How completely you hearing the word of God6 and re- fruits of happiness, peace, and willingly embrace the teachings of the sponding to it. You will receive progress are lost. Savior determines how much fruit, as from the Holy Ghost a confirming “The sower soweth the word. blessings, you will harvest in your witness of things you accept on faith [Some sown] by the way side, . . . but life. This parable illustrates that the by willingly doing them.7 You will be when they have heard, Satan degree to which you willingly obey

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 25 those things you know you should do, resisting the rationalization to do otherwise, will determine how truly converted you are, therefore, how TRUE FRIENDS fully the Lord can bless you. Elder Henry B. Eyring Tr ue conversion yields the fruit of Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles enduring happiness that can be en- joyed even when the world is in tur- moil and most are anything but happy. Of a group of individuals in All of us will be tested. And all of us need true friends difficulty, the Book of Mormon to love us, to listen to us, to show us the way, and teaches: “They did fast and pray oft, and did wax stronger and stronger in to testify of truth to us. their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, unto the filling their souls with joy and consolation, yea, even to the purifying and the along the path and go far enough sanctification of their hearts, which and then fail and deny Him, it sanctification cometh because of their would have been better if we had yielding their hearts unto God.”9 never begun.2 President Hinckley has declared I think of that each time I visit with that it is true conversion that makes new members of the Church. I get the difference.10 that opportunity often, across the To receive the blessings promised world. I see their trusting faces, and from true conversion, make the often they tell me about some trial of changes that you know are needed in their faith, and then, with urgency in your life now. The Savior said: “Will ye their voices, they whisper, “Please not now return unto me, and repent pray for me.” At those moments, I feel of your sins, and be converted, that I again the weight of the charge to each may heal you? . . . If ye will come unto of us from the Lord’s living prophet. me ye shall have eternal life.”11 It is to keep the promise we made in I bear testimony that as you pray the waters of baptism “to bear one an- for guidance, the Holy Ghost will other’s burdens.”3 It is to be a friend. help identify the personal changes These words of President you need to make for full conver- ach year, hundreds of thou- Hinckley energize me: “I hope, I sion. The Lord can then bless you sands of the children of our pray, I plead with you, every one of more abundantly. Your faith in Him Heavenly Father come into The you, to embrace every new member will be fortified, your capacity to EChurch of Jesus Christ of Latter-day of the Church. Make a friend of him repent will increase, and your power Saints. For most it requires a great or her. Hold onto them.”4 to consistently obey will be reinforced. change in their lives. All of them President Hinckley can’t be there The Savior lives. He loves you. As have made a sacred covenant with as a friend for every new member. you do your best, He will help you. great promises and with a solemn But you can be there for at least one. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. pledge to endure. That covenant is All it takes is to feel something of so important that our Heavenly what they feel and something of NOTES Father described the blessing and the what the Savior feels for them. Try 1. See Matt. 17:3; 1 Kgs. 17:1; D&C 110:13. 2. Luke 22:31–32; emphasis added. challenge to the prophet Nephi: to feel the heart of a young man, 3. See Mark 14:27, 29–31. “And I heard a voice from the Nkosiyabo Eddie Lupahla, in Africa, 4. Luke 22:56–62. Father, saying: Yea, the words of my writing about his friend. 5. In Conference Report, Guatemala Area Conference 1977, 8–9. Beloved are true and faithful. He “Two and a half years prior to my 6. See Rom. 10:17; Joseph F. Smith, Gospel that endureth to the end, the same joining the Church in 1999, my good Doctrine, 5th ed. (1939), 99. shall be saved. friend, Mbuti Yona, looked me up. 7. See Ether 12:6. 8. Mark 4:14–20. “And now, my beloved brethren, I We had been friends through grades 9. Hel. 3:35. know by this that unless a man shall 5 to 12, then [were] separated when 10. Regional representatives’ seminar, endure to the end, in following the we attended different [schools]. 6 Apr. 1984, as quoted in W. Mack Lawrence, example of the Son of the living God, “Mbuti was baptized in April “Conversion and Commitment,” Ensign, May 1 1996, 75. he cannot be saved.” 1999, and four weeks later he visited 11. 3 Ne. 9:13–14. The Savior warns that if we start me at home and introduced the

26 Elder Henry B. Eyring, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, and Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles look over the congregation while members of the First Presidency confer before a conference session. gospel to me. Regardless of the ru- Church line upon line, precept upon He introduced his friend to the mors about the Church, I was im- precept, here a little and there a lit- missionaries. He saw that his friend pressed by the ‘fellow Saints’ who tle. I was baptized September 17, was baptized and received the gift of gave me a warm welcome on my 1999, by another friend I had made the Holy Ghost. He took his friend, first visit. It was this same Sunday while attending institute. even before baptism, to where he that my friend introduced me to the “I am thankful for the institute would study the scriptures and thus missionaries. Arrangements were program. It has not only shaped me, be nurtured by the good word of made to be taught. My friend was but it has also helped me qualify to God. Even before baptism he helped there for every discussion, and he become a missionary, which mission I his friend discover this promise: kept inviting me to the activities. I re- started preparing for five months af- “Wherefore, I said unto you, feast ally enjoyed being around people ter my baptism. I have been blessed upon the words of Christ; for be- with the same values, interests, stan- with many opportunities to serve hold, the words of Christ will tell dards, and goals. It was during this and to teach prior to my mission. you all things what ye should do.”6 same time period that I began at- “I am thankful for my friend. I The words must have told him to tending institute [of religion]. It all hope he realizes what he has done buy scriptures, which he did. seemed very natural: Thursday for me. We have both served mis- At baptism, Brother Lupahla re- nights [5:30]—missionary discussion, sions, I to South Africa Durban, he to ceived the gift of the Holy Ghost to followed by institute. South Africa Cape Town. All it takes serve as his constant companion as “I learned a lot in institute and es- is a friend to bring such a mighty long as he invited it and lived worthy pecially enjoyed our class about how change in one’s life.”5 of it. That assured him of another to achieve a celestial marriage. The Now, there seems to be nothing promise, “For behold, again I say first semester ended in May, shortly miraculous in that story. But there is unto you that if ye will enter in by after I began attending, and I felt a miracle of wisdom beyond human the way, and receive the Holy Ghost, cheated. But I was fortunate enough capacity. it will show unto you all things what to catch the second semester class, Perhaps because Mbuti had ye should do.”7 The Holy Ghost must Teachings of the Living Prophets. walked the path himself or perhaps have told him to begin to prepare for While in institute, I bought myself by revelation, he knew what his a mission, which he did. the four standard works and I con- friend would have to do to endure. We do not know which friends tinued to learn and grow in the And so he knew how to lift and help. went with him to his sacrament

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 27 meetings both before and after bap- companion with assurance it will “Henceforth I call you not servants; tism, but some must have greeted come. When we ask in faith, a for the servant knoweth not what his him warmly, as they did on his change can come in our natures both lord doeth: but I have called you first visit. There, he renewed his for the welfare of our souls and to friends; for all things that I have covenant to always remember the strengthen us for the tests we all heard of my Father I have made Savior, to keep His commandments, must face. known unto you.”9 and to receive again the promise of There are limits on what friends The Savior watches over the the companionship of the Holy can do to help the ones who must struggling member as a friend. He Ghost. We don’t know what part his endure. It is the new members who laid down His life for all of us. He friends had in his calls to serve and must pray. It is they who must rely loves us and will grant us, if we are to speak. But we can be sure that on the strength they will receive in faithful, the gift of feeling a part of they thanked him and told him answers to their prayers. They must His love for them. I have at times when they felt the Spirit in his ser- choose for themselves in faith to be been blessed by the Holy Ghost to vice and in his teaching. baptized, trusting in their perfect sense the Savior’s love for a strug- We can know something of his friend, the Savior. They must choose gling new member. I know for my- private life. Remember that he wrote in faith in Him to repent, to be hum- self that is possible. that he continued to learn. He wrote ble and contrite. Second, we must listen to the new that he grew in the Church line They must choose to receive the member with understanding and upon line, precept upon precept, gift of the Holy Ghost. The words of empathy. That also will take spiritual here a little and there a little. He confirmation into the Church are an gifts, since our experience will rarely said that he had been shaped by invitation: “Receive the Holy Ghost.” parallel theirs. It will not be enough his experiences in the Church And that choice must be made not to say, “I understand how you feel,” Educational System institute. We once, but every day, every hour, ev- unless we do. But the Savior does. know from the scriptures what ery minute. Even when the Holy He is prepared to help you be a caused those changes in him. He had Ghost comes and inspires them what friend who understands even those to be praying with faith in the Savior. they should do, doing it or not is a you have just met, if you ask in faith. He was receiving testimony and di- choice. Even when they read the Before He was born, prophets knew rections through the Spirit. And then scriptures regularly, it takes a choice what He would do to be able to help he was not only doing what he was to “feast upon the words of Christ.” you be a friend for Him: inspired to do but he was asking God And even the feast is not nourishing “And he shall go forth, suffering to let the Atonement work in his life. without a choice to do what the pains and afflictions and temptations Nephi, describing that miracle of words of Christ tell them to do. With of every kind; and this that the word change and what brings it, said this: faith and obedience practiced long might be fulfilled which saith he will “And now, my beloved brethren, I enough, the Holy Ghost becomes a take upon him the pains and the perceive that ye ponder still in your constant companion, our natures sicknesses of his people. hearts; and it grieveth me that I must change, and endurance becomes “And he will take upon him death, speak concerning this thing. For if ye certain. that he may loose the bands of death would hearken unto the Spirit which The member must make the which bind his people; and he will teacheth a man to pray ye would choices, but the true friend is vital. take upon him their infirmities, that know that ye must pray; for the evil There are important ways for us to his bowels may be filled with mercy, spirit teacheth not a man to pray, but share the new member’s burden that according to the flesh, that he may teacheth him that he must not pray. it may be bearable. We can love, lis- know according to the flesh how to “But behold, I say unto you that ten, show, and testify. succor his people according to their ye must pray always, and not faint; First, we must love them. That is infirmities.”10 that ye must not perform any thing what the Savior does. We can do it Third, we must be an example for unto the Lord save in the first place with Him and for Him. He showed the new member. We can feast upon ye shall pray unto the Father in the us the way in His mortal ministry. the word of God. We can ask for name of Christ, that he will conse- He taught by precept and example and live for the companionship of crate thy performance unto thee, that we are to love His disciples. the Holy Ghost. We can be obedient that thy performance may be for the “This is my commandment, That out of our faith in Jesus Christ. And welfare of thy soul.”8 ye love one another, as I have loved in time we can become an example The Holy Ghost is a comforter you. of a disciple who is born again and a guide. But it is also a cleansing “Greater love hath no man than through the Atonement. It may be agent. That is why service in the this, that a man lay down his life for gradual. It may be hard for us to kingdom is so crucial to enduring. his friends. discern in ourselves. But it will be When we are called to serve, we can “Ye are my friends, if ye do what- real. And it will give hope to the pray for the Holy Ghost to be our soever I command you. new member and to all those we

28 befriend on the path to eternal life. Fourth, we must testify of the truth to the new member. It must be sincere, and it is best when it is sim- FAITH OBEDIENCE ple. It is most helpful when it is Elder R. Conrad Schultz about the reality and mission of the Of the Seventy Savior, about our Heavenly Father’s love, and of the gifts and compan- ionship of the Holy Ghost. And it is essential to testify that the Father “Faith obedience” is a matter of trust. The question and the Son appeared to the young is simple: Do we trust our Heavenly Father? Joseph Smith and that the full gospel and the true Church have been re- Do we trust our prophets? stored by heavenly messengers. The Holy Ghost will confirm those sim- ple declarations as truth. The new member will need that some difficulty maneuvered the confirmation, again and again, even boat, half filled with water, to where when we are not there to testify. he was floating and pulled him Should they choose to reject the com- aboard. panionship of the Holy Ghost, he or We had been hit by what is called she will not endure. But that is true a sneaker wave. It doesn’t happen for all of us, wherever we are and often, and there is no way to predict however faithful we have been. All of an occurrence. Later we found that us will be tested. And all of us need up and down the Oregon- true friends to love us, to listen to us, Washington coast, five people had to show us the way, and to testify of drowned that day in three separate truth to us so that we may retain the boating accidents. All were caused companionship of the Holy Ghost. by the same sneaker wave, which for You must be such a true friend. no apparent reason had welled up I can still remember, as if it were off the ocean surface. At the time we today, friends who touched my life went out over the bar, the ocean was for good long ago. They are gone, flat and calm and gave no sign of but the memory of their love, exam- any danger. But the ocean turned ple, faith, and testimony still lifts me. n this world in which we live, out to be very deceptive and not at And your friendship to even one things are not always what they all what it appeared to be. new member may, in this life and in appear to be. We sometimes are As we make our way through this the next, cause hundreds or even unawareI of the powerful forces life’s journey, we must continually thousands of their ancestors and pulling on us. Appearances can be be on guard and watch for those their descendants to call you blessed. very deceptive. things which are deceptive and not This is the true Church of Jesus A few years ago I had an experi- what they appear to be. If we are not Christ. He lives. He loves you, and ence with deceptive appearances careful, the sneaker waves in life can He loves those whom you must where the results could have been be as deadly as those in the ocean. serve and who will become your tragic. My wife’s cousin and family One of the sneaky ploys of the ad- true friends forever. were visiting us from Utah. It was a versary is to have us believe that un- In the sacred name of Jesus calm summer day on the Oregon questioning obedience to the Christ, amen. coast, and we were fishing in the principles and commandments of ocean. It was pleasant, and we were God is blind obedience. His goal is to NOTES 1. 2 Ne. 31:15–16. having a good time catching salmon, have us believe that we should be 2. See 2 Ne. 31:14; D&C 40:1–3; 41:5–6. when for some reason I turned following our own worldly ways and 3. Mosiah 18:8. around to see a huge eight-foot wave selfish ambitions. This he does by 4. Meeting, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, 2 Aug. 1998. bearing down upon us. I only had persuading us that “blindly” follow- 5. Personal correspondence. time to shout a warning before the ing the prophets and obeying the 6. 2 Ne. 32:3. wave hit us broadside. Somehow the commandments is not thinking for 7. 2 Ne. 32:5. 8. 2 Ne. 32: 8–9. boat stayed upright, but Gary, our ourselves. He teaches that it is not in- 9. John 15:12–15. cousin, was thrown overboard. We telligent to do something just be- 10. Alma 7:11–12. were all wearing life jackets and with cause we are told to do so by a living

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 29 A family pauses before the Christus in the North Visitors’ Center on Temple Square.

prophet or by prophets who speak Another of the adversary’s decep- Things like saying our prayers, hon- to us from the scriptures. tions is to have us believe that the oring the Sabbath, reading the scrip- Our unquestioning obedience to wisdom and the learning of the tures, paying our tithing, attending the Lord’s commandments is not world is the only source of knowl- our meetings, and the list goes on. blind obedience. President Boyd K. edge we should follow. The prophet Our Heavenly Father communi- Packer in the April conference of Nephi’s brother Jacob understood cates in a very clear way to His chil- 1983 taught us about this: “Latter- the adversary’s plan and warned us dren. In the teachings of the gospel, day Saints are not obedient because about it: there is no uncertain sound of which they are compelled to be obedient. “O that cunning plan of the evil the Apostle Paul speaks (see 1 Cor. They are obedient because they one! O the vainness, and the frailties, 14:8). There is no question regarding know certain spiritual truths and and the foolishness of men! When the meaning of what is being said or have decided, as an expression of they are learned they think they are of feelings prompted by the Spirit. their own individual agency, to obey wise, and they hearken not unto the We have not been left alone. We the commandments of God. . . . We counsel of God, for they set it aside, have the scriptures, the prophets, are not obedient because we are supposing they know of themselves, loving parents, and leaders. blind, we are obedient because we wherefore, their wisdom is foolish- Why do we sometimes stray? Why can see” (“Agency and Control,” ness and it profiteth them not. And do we let ourselves be influenced by Ensign, May 1983, 66). they shall perish” (2 Ne. 9:28). the deception of the adversary? The We might call this “faith obedi- Jacob did not say that we should solution to his deception is simple in ence.” With faith, Abraham was obe- not be learned. He went on to tell us its answer, but sometimes it is diffi- dient in preparing Isaac for sacrifice; that it is good to be learned, provided cult in its application. President with faith, Nephi was obedient in we hearken to the counsels of God. Harold B. Lee in the October confer- obtaining the brass plates; with faith, Some come to believe that you ence of 1970 spoke of the Lord, the a little child obediently jumps from a may pick and choose which of God’s adversary, and the solution to the ad- height into the strong arms of his fa- commandments to follow. They con- versary’s power of deception: ther. “Faith obedience” is a matter of veniently label many command- “We have some tight places to go trust. The question is simple: Do we ments as little things which can be before the Lord is through with this trust our Heavenly Father? Do we put off and which don’t appear to be church and the world in this dispen- trust our prophets? life-threatening or too important. sation. . . . The power of Satan will

30 increase; we see it on every hand. . . . We must learn to give heed to the words and commandments that the Lord shall give through his prophet. BEING TEACHABLE . . . There will be some things that Elder Robert R. Steuer take patience and faith” (in Of the Seventy Conference Report, Oct. 1970, 152). Then President Lee added a warning when he went on to say that we may not always like what By being teachable, we activate the full force and comes from the authority of the blessings of the Atonement in our lives. Church, because it may conflict with our personal views or interfere with some of our social life. However, if we will listen to and do these things as if from the mouth of the Lord turn away the small still voice; it will Himself, we will not be deceived and teach them what to do and where great blessings will be ours. to go; it will yield the fruits of the It brings us back to obedience. It Kingdom.”3 will always be so. It’s part of the plan How do we ignite this power of of eternal happiness. I know of no divine instruction in our lives? First, doctrine that is more critical to our we need to start with a willingness well-being in this life and the next. to be instructed. While many natu- All scriptures teach obedience, and rally hunger and thirst after righ- no apostle or prophet has ever lived teousness, others may be compelled who has not taught the principle of to be humble.4 Some of us, rather obedience. than follow instructions or change Sometimes it is necessary to be ourselves, would simply like to obedient even when we do not un- change the rules. Naaman certainly derstand the reason for the law. It wanted to be rid of his leprous flesh takes faith to be obedient. The but went away in a rage when told Prophet Joseph Smith, in teaching by the prophet’s messenger to sim- obedience, said that whatever God ply wash seven times in the River requires is right, though we may not rue disciples of the Master are Jordan. It was inconvenient, a little know the reason until much later teachable. In just a few words, thing, and he felt that the rivers in (see Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Abraham gives us much in- his land were better than the Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith sightT into why he was so greatly Jordan. But his leprosy was cured as [1976], 256). blessed. He lived a life “desiring to he listened to his servants, changed I am grateful that we had on our receive instructions, and to keep the his mind, and did “according to the life jackets that summer day on the commandments of God.”1 “Desiring saying of the man of God.” 5 He was ocean. I am thankful we were able to receive instructions” is more than dramatically shown that there was a to avoid the tragedy that came to a willingness to listen. When our prophet and a God in Israel. We too others from that sneaker wave. It is desire to receive instruction is a must realize that God has governing my prayer that we will continue to greater force than our comfort in re- laws6 and that His wisdom is wear our life jackets of obedience maining as we are, we become greater than our own. Even Moses in order to avoid the tragedy that teachable. observed, after seeing God’s will surely come if we are deceived President Brigham Young taught majesty and workmanship, “Man is and follow the enticings of the our “first and foremost duty [is] to nothing, which thing I never had adversary. seek the Lord until we open the path supposed.”7 I witness to you that our Father in of communication from God to our Second, we need to put our- Heaven lives, that He loves us, and own soul.”2 Shortly after his death, selves into a proper frame of mind that by being unquestioningly obedi- the Prophet Joseph Smith appeared and heart. This comes by prayerful ent to His commandments, we can in a dream to Brigham Young and in- pondering and laboring in the once again dwell with Him and His structed him: “Tell the people to be Spirit.8 This labor is real labor. It in- Son Jesus Christ, our Savior and humble and faithful, and be sure to cludes the very active steps of seek- Redeemer, in the name of Jesus keep the spirit of the Lord and it will ing, hearkening, and studying the Christ, amen. lead them right. Be careful and not scriptures. When humbled and

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 31 As a result of being teachable, we gain an even greater testimony of our Heavenly Father’s care for us. We gain the security and certainty that our course in life is according to His will.17 We even have reasons to be good, reasons to be moral, and reasons to change our behavior. By being teachable, we activate the full force and blessings of the Atonement in our lives. We become sensitive to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit so that the righteous principles taught by the prophets and the truths from the earth can place Christ deeply into our lives.18 We become His true disciples. It is by loving these truths with all of our heart that an affinity develops between us and the Source of truth itself, “for intelligence cleaveth unto intelligence; wisdom receiveth wis- dom; truth embraceth truth; [and] virtue loveth virtue.”19 Hence, we stripped of pride, our heart is soft- expects our labors.”14 shall discover that the things we ened and now we can focus on Becoming teachable is a process of value and appreciate the most are heavenly counsel and instruction. learning line upon line. In this pro- those that we personally learned Lamoni’s father, the powerful cess we convert thoughts and feel- from the Lord. Lamanite king, made just that ings into actions. But what a reward I testify that through the Prophet change in focus, even prostrating for this exercise of our faith as we Joseph Smith we have received himself to the earth, demonstrating open the path of communication countless revelations of truth, bear- his great commitment to know with the Lord. The Lord said, ing testimony of the atoning sacri- God. He declared, “I will give away “Blessed are those who hearken unto fice of Jesus Christ. Being teachable all my sins to know thee, and that I my precepts, and lend an ear unto we will more clearly see, hear, and may be raised from the dead, and my counsel, for they shall learn wis- adhere to those revelations continu- be saved at the last day.”9 dom.”15 And He also said, “Every ing even today through our living Third, we must be obedient to the one that hearkeneth to the voice of apostles, prophets, seers, and reve- instruction we receive. Alma said, the Spirit cometh unto God, even the lators. In the name of Jesus Christ, “Experiment upon my words, and Father.”16 amen. 10 exercise a particle of faith.” Nephi Some years ago I remember ask- NOTES simply said, “I will go and do.”11 ing my father-in-law, a seasoned 1. Abr. 1:2. What a wonderful attitude of sub- bishop, about a three-by-five-inch 2. Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young (1997), 41. mission and obedience as he ac- card he always carried in his shirt 3. Quoted by Brigham Young, in Teachings cepted his father’s counsel in getting pocket. His reply was that at times of the Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young, 41. the brass plates and in being told he felt impressions or promptings. 4. See Matt. 5:6 and Alma 32:13. 5. See 2 Kgs. 5:1–14. where to hunt, and the Lord’s coun- He then liked to pull out that card 6. See D&C 93:30. sel in building a ship.12 In each case and write down those feelings, 7. Moses 1:10. he proceeded with trust, moving for- whenever they came. And then he 8. See Alma 17:5. 9. See Alma 22:17–18. ward, “not knowing beforehand the tried to act upon them as quickly as 10. Alma 32:27. 13 things” that he should do or the possible. It is humbling to consider 11. 1 Ne. 3:7. outcome. But since we are free that the still, small voice is always 12. See 1 Ne. 3:4; 16:23–32; 17:8–11. 13. 1 Ne. 4:6. agents, life can sometimes be a diffi- there for us, teaching us what to do 14. “To the Rescue,” Ensign, May 2001, 49. cult journey of applying our hearts and where to go. The Lord tells us 15. 2 Ne. 28:30. and minds to the truths of God. that when the promptings are 16. D&C 84:47. Nevertheless, as President Thomas S. heeded, often more are given. If we 17. See Joseph Smith, comp., Lectures on Faith (1985), 38. Monson said, “The Lord expects our do not follow them, the promptings 18. See Moses 7:62. thinking. He expects our action. He eventually diminish. 19. D&C 88:40.

32 This astonishing answer moved me to ponder what people expect to receive from Jesus Christ, from His THE GOSPEL IN OUR LIVES gospel, and from participating in His Elder Dallin H. Oaks Church. I thought of some others Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles who said they stopped going to Church because the Church was “not meeting their needs.” Which needs could they be expecting the Church He has given us His Atonement, His gospel, to meet? If persons are simply seek- and His Church, a sacred combination that gives us ing a satisfying social experience, they might be disappointed in a par- the assurance of immortality and the opportunity for ticular ward or branch and seek eternal life. other associations. There are satisfy- ing social experiences in many orga- nizations. If they are simply seeking help to learn the gospel, they could pursue that goal through available blessings in the life to come. literature. But are these the principal Paul taught that the Lord gave purposes of the Church? Is this all prophets and apostles for “the per- we are to receive from the gospel of fecting of the saints, . . . the work of Jesus Christ? the ministry, . . . [and] the edifying of Someone has said that what we the body of Christ” (Eph. 4:12). get depends on what we seek. Persons who are not fully participat- Persons who attend Church solely in ing in The Church of Jesus Christ of order to get something of a temporal Latter-day Saints and also seeking a nature may be disappointed. The personal spiritual conversion are Apostle Paul wrote disparagingly of missing out on experiences that are persons who “serve not our Lord essential under the divinely estab- Jesus Christ, but their own belly” lished great plan of happiness. The (Rom. 16:18). Persons who attend teachings and the work of the Church Church in order to give to their fel- are essential to bring to pass the eter- lowmen and serve the Lord will nal life of man (see Moses 1:39). rarely be disappointed. The Savior I pray that many within the promised that “he that loseth his life sound of my voice will have a spiri- for my sake shall find it” (Matt. 10:39). ome years ago I enjoyed a tual witness of the importance of the The Church gives us opportuni- newspaper cartoon that Church’s mission to edify and exalt ties to serve the Lord and our fellow- showed a clergyman in conver- the children of God. I pray especially men. If given in the right way and Ssation with a hippie-dressed couple that some who are not yet enjoying for the right reasons, that service will astride a motorcycle. “We are church the blessings of full Church participa- reward us beyond anything we have goers,” one was saying to the clergy- tion and commitment will seek and given. Millions serve unselfishly and man. “We’ve been going for years . . . obtain that witness and act upon it. effectively as officers or teachers in we just haven’t got there yet.”1 About a decade ago, while I was Church organizations, and those Many of our extended family and at a stake conference in the United who do experience the conversion friends haven’t yet gotten to church States, I was introduced to a member described by the prophet who either. They may attend sporadically, who had not participated in the pleaded with us to “come unto but they are not yet enjoying the full Church for many years. “Why Christ, and be perfected in him” blessings of Church participation should I return to Church activity?” (Moro. 10:32). and service. Others may attend regu- this member asked me. Considering Throughout my life I have been larly, but refrain from commitments all the Savior has done for us, I blessed by my membership and par- and from seeking the personal spiri- replied it should be easy to offer ticipation in The Church of Jesus tual rebirth that comes from yielding something in service to Him and our Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is im- our hearts to God. Both kinds are fellowmen. My questioner consid- possible to describe all the ways the missing some unique blessings in ered that idea for a moment and Church has blessed my life and the this life. And both are in jeopardy then voiced this astonishing reply: lives of those I love. But I will give a of missing the most glorious “What’s He done for me?” few examples, in the hope that this

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 33 relationships sealed for eternity. Throughout my life I have been blessed by the doctrine and teach- ings of the gospel of Jesus Christ. As taught in the scriptures and by the leaders and teachers of this Church, the gospel has been a light to my path and the impetus for my tem- poral and spiritual progress. As Brigham Young taught, the gospel laws “teach men to be truthful, hon- est, chaste, sober, industrious, frugal and to love and practice every good word and work, . . . they elevate and ennoble man, [and] if fully obeyed, [they] bring health and strength to the body, clearness to the percep- tions, power to the reasoning facul- ties as well as salvation to the soul.”2 Among many blessings I have re- ceived from gospel teachings are those promised for keeping the Word of Wisdom. For me these have included health and knowledge and the capacity to “run and not be Members stream out of the Conference Center after a session. weary, and . . . walk and not faint,” and the fulfillment of the promise will add personal persuasion to the commercial recreation, or at home that “the destroying angel shall pass principles described. reading the Sunday paper—that can by them, as the children of Israel, Attendance at Church each week provide anything comparable to and not slay them” (D&C 89:18–21). provides the opportunity to partake these blessings? No recreational The gospel teaches us to pay our of the sacrament, as the Lord has pleasure can equal the cleansing re- tithes and offerings and assures us of commanded us (see D&C 59:9). If we newal and the spiritual guidance blessings when we do. I testify of the act with the right preparation and at- and growth God has promised those fulfillment of these promises in my titude, partaking of the sacrament re- who faithfully partake of the sacra- life. I have seen the windows of news the cleansing effect of our ment and honor Him each Sabbath heaven open in my behalf to bestow baptism and qualifies us for the day. I give thanks for the fulfillment blessings unnumbered. Among these promise that we will always have of those promises in my life and af- is the capacity to see the relative His Spirit to be with us. A mission of firm their availability to all. unimportance of the property, pride, that Spirit, the Holy Ghost, is to tes- As I came to the age of account- prominence, and power of this tify of the Father and the Son and to ability and understood and experi- world, in the context of eternity. lead us into truth (see John 14:26; enced the effect of personal sin, the How grateful I am for the focus and 2 Ne. 31:18). Testimony and truth, teachings of the gospel of Jesus peace that come from a gospel-based which are essential to our personal Christ gave me the peace and understanding of the purpose of life conversion, are the choice harvest courage to go forward in the knowl- and its relationship to eternity! of this weekly renewing of our edge that my sins could be forgiven From my earliest years and covenants. In the day-to-day deci- and that there is always hope and through schooling and marriage to sions of my life and in my personal the possibility of mercy for those middle age and beyond, the Church spiritual growth, I have enjoyed the who fall short. has provided me personal associa- fulfillment of that promise. As I experienced the death of loved tions with the finest people in the I am sorry when any Latter-day ones, including my father, my mother, world. Teachers and classmates in Saint does not understand the pre- and my wife, the comforting revela- Sunday School and Primary, in cious blessing that comes to those tions of the Holy Ghost gave me the scouting and other youth activities, who keep the commandment to of- strength to carry on. The Spirit affirms in quorum and ward and stake activ- fer up their sacraments upon each that there is purpose in mortal adver- ities have given me the finest possi- Sabbath day. What is there in life— sities and gives assurance of the resur- ble role models and friends. Of on the lakes or streams, in places of rection and the reality of family course, our Church does not have a

34 monopoly on good people, but we have a remarkable concentration of them. My associations in the organi- zations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have given me the basis to recognize, appreciate, and enlarge my associations with people of quality in other churches and organizations. Because my father died before I was eight years old, I had early cause to wonder about the purposes of the Lord in depriving me of a relation- ship other boys enjoyed and took for granted. As with so many other mor- Three members of the Seventy share a thought: Elder Gary J. Coleman, left, tal challenges, the perspective of the Elder Jay E. Jensen, and Elder Gerald N. Lund. gospel of Jesus Christ filled that void. How grateful I am that my brother loved ones with the sweetness and mine, but his that sent me. If any and sister and I were raised by a closeness that can only come from man will do his will, he shall know widowed mother who used her faith sensing the significance of the priest- of the doctrine, whether it be of God, and our parents’ temple marriage to hood of God in an eternal family. or whether I speak of myself” (John make our departed father a daily I am also grateful for the warn- 7:16–17). presence in our lives. We never had ings of the scriptures and Church Your leaders also say, along with cause to feel that we were without a leaders on things to avoid. By follow- King Benjamin: “I would desire that father. We had a father, but he was ing that counsel I have been able to ye should consider on the blessed away for a season. There are few avoid pitfalls that might otherwise and happy state of those that keep things more important in this life have trapped and enslaved me. the commandments of God. For be- than knowing your place in mortal- Alcohol, tobacco, drugs, pornogra- hold, they are blessed in all things, ity and your potential in eternity. phy, and gambling are but a few ex- both temporal and spiritual; and if Marriages sealed for eternity in a amples of dangerous substances and they hold out faithful to the end temple of the Lord provide that pos- addictive practices we have been they are received into heaven, that sibility for every child and for every warned to avoid. I appeal to all— thereby they may dwell with God in adult. especially to young people—to hear a state of never-ending happiness” Over the years, my active partici- and heed the words of the men and (Mosiah 2:41). pation in the Church has provided women God has called as your lead- In modern revelation the Lord me access to the counsel and inspira- ers and teachers. You will be blessed has declared, “I, the Lord, am bound tion of the leaders of the Church on if you refrain from setting your own when ye do what I say; but when ye things I should do as a husband and wisdom or desires ahead of the com- do not what I say, ye have no father and leader in my family. Again mandments of your Creator and the promise” (D&C 82:10). and again, in stake and general con- warnings of His servants. What has our Savior done for us? ferences, in priesthood quorums, The scriptures tell us to take upon He has given us His Atonement, His and in Sunday School classes, I have us the “whole armor” of God that we gospel, and His Church, a sacred been taught and inspired by won- “may be able to withstand the evil combination that gives us the assur- derful and experienced fathers, day.” They promise that the “breast- ance of immortality and the opportu- mothers, and grandparents. I have plate of righteousness” and “the nity for eternal life. I testify that this sought to follow those teachings to shield of faith” will “quench all the is true, and I testify of God the improve my participation in those fiery darts of the wicked” (D&C Father, the author of the plan, and of associations that will persist for eter- 27:15–17). I urge you to obey those His Son Jesus Christ, the Atoning nity. To cite only one example, I have teachings and lay claim on those One who has made it all possible, in been taught the power of a priest- blessings. They include the personal the name of Jesus Christ, amen. hood blessing—not just a blessing of spiritual conversion—the “mighty healing, but a blessing of comfort change . . . in our hearts” (Mosiah NOTES 1. Calvin Grondahl, [Ogden, Utah] and guidance that a father holding 5:2)—that helps us become what Standard-Examiner, 26 May 1990. the Melchizedek Priesthood is privi- our Heavenly Father desires us to 2. Letter to the editor of the Religio- leged to give to members of his fam- become. Philosophical Journal, 7 Jan. 1869, quoted in Jed Woodworth, “Brigham Young and the Mission ily. Learning and applying that The leaders of this Church say, as of Mormonism,” Brigham Young University principle has favored me and my the Savior said: “My doctrine is not Studies 40, no. 2 (2001):11.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 35 Ananias and Sapphira sold their pos- sessions, they “kept back part of the price” (see Acts 5:1–11). So many of CONSECRATE us cling tenaciously to a particular “part,” even treating our obsessions like possessions. Thus, whatever else we may have already given, the last THY PERFORMANCE portion is the hardest to yield. Elder Neal A. Maxwell Granted, partial surrender is still Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles commendable, but it resembles, more than faintly, the excuse, “I gave at the office” (see James 1:7–8). In pondering and pursuing consecration, We may, for instance, have a spe- understandably we tremble inwardly at what cific set of skills which we mistakenly come to think we somehow own. If may be required. Yet the Lord has said consolingly, we continue to cling to those more than to God, we are flinching in the “My grace is sufficient for you” (D&C 17:8). face of the consecrating first com- mandment. Since God lends us “breath . . . from one moment to an- other,” hyperventilating over these Such totality involves the sub- distractions is not recommended! missive converging of feelings, (Mosiah 2:21). thoughts, words, and deeds, the A stumbling block appears when very opposite of estrangement: “For we serve God generously with time how knoweth a man the master and checkbooks but still withhold whom he has not served, and who is portions of our inner selves, signify- a stranger unto him, and is far from ing that we are not yet fully His! the thoughts and intents of his Some have difficulty when partic- heart?” (Mosiah 5:13). ular tasks enter their sunset phase. Many ignore consecration because John the Baptist is a model, however, it seems too abstract or too daunting. saying of Jesus’ growing flock, “He The conscientious among us, how- must increase, but I must decrease” ever, experience divine discontent be- (John 3:30). Mistakenly regarding cause of progression mixed with our present assignments as the only procrastination. Hence, loving coun- indicator of how much God loves us sel is given with the confirmation of only adds to our reluctance to let go. this direction, encouragement to con- Brothers and sisters, our individual tinue the journey, and consolation as worth is already divinely established hese remarks are addressed to we experience individually the inher- as “great”; it does not fluctuate like the imperfect but still striving ent degrees of difficulty. the stock market. in the household of faith. As Spiritual submissiveness is not ac- Other stepping-stones remain un- Talways, my immediate audience is complished in an instant, but by the used because, like the rich, righteous myself. incremental improvements and by young man, we are not yet willing to We tend to think of consecration the successive use of stepping- confront what we yet lack (see Mark only as yielding up, when divinely stones. Stepping-stones are meant to 10:21). A residue of selfishness is directed, our material possessions. be taken one at a time anyway. thereby exposed. But ultimate consecration is the Eventually our wills can be “swal- Shrinking occurs in so many yielding up of oneself to God. Heart, lowed up in the will of the Father” as ways. The terrestrial kingdom, for soul, and mind were the encompass- we are “willing to submit . . . even as example, will include the “honor- ing words of Christ in describing the a child doth submit to his father” able,” clearly not bearers of false wit- first commandment, which is con- (see Mosiah 15:7; 3:19). Otherwise, ness. Yet they were still “not valiant stantly, not periodically, operative though striving, we will continue to in the testimony of Jesus” (D&C (see Matt. 22:37). If kept, then our feel the world’s prop wash and be 76:75, 79). The best way to valiantly performances will, in turn, be fully partially diverted. testify of Jesus is to become steadily consecrated for the lasting welfare of Illustrations involving economic more like Him, and it is that conse- our souls (see 2 Ne. 32:9). consecration are relevant. When cration that carves out the emulative

36 character (see 3 Ne. 27:27). In meeting these recited chal- lenges, spiritual submissiveness is fortunately and helpfully adroit— sometimes helping us to “let go” of things, even mortal life, other times to “hold fast,” and still other times to use the next stepping-stone (see 1 Ne. 8:30). But if we lack proportion, the next few yards can seem so formidable. Though aware of how God blessed ancient Israel to escape from mighty Pharaoh and his hosts, myopic Laman and Lemuel still lacked faith in God to help them with a mere lo- cal Laban. We can also be deflected if we are too anxious to please those who are ascendant in our professional and av- ocational niches. Pleasing “other gods” instead of the real God still violates the first commandment (Ex. 20:3). We sometimes even defend our idiosyncrasies, as if these protrusions somehow constituted our individual- ity. In a way, discipleship is a “con- tact sport,” as the Prophet Joseph testified: and the forms of body worship we by boasting that “mine own hand “I am like a huge, rough stone . . . see among us. One can reverence na- hath saved me” (Judg. 7:2). Touting and the only polishing I get is when ture and yet neglect nature’s God. our own “hand” makes it doubly some corner gets rubbed off by com- One can have an exclusionary regard hard to confess God’s hand in all ing in contact with something else, for good music and similarly with a things (see Alma 14:11; D&C 59:21). striking with accelerated force. . . . worthy profession. In such circum- At a place called Meribah, one of Thus I will become a smooth and stances, the “weightier matters” are the greatest ever, Moses, was fa- polished shaft in the quiver of the often omitted (Matt. 23:23; see also tigued by people clamoring for wa- Almighty” (Teachings of the Prophet 1 Cor. 2:16). Only the Highest One ter. Momentarily, Moses “spake Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding can fully guide us as to the highest unadvisedly,” saying, “Must we fetch Smith [1976], 304). good which you and I can do. you water?” (Ps. 106:33; Num. 20:10; Since knees often bend long be- On the two great command- see also Deut. 4:21). The Lord men- fore minds, holding back this “part” ments, Jesus declared emphatically, tored remarkable Moses through the deprives God’s work of some of everything else hangs, not vice versa pronoun problem and further mag- mankind’s very best intellects. Far (see Matt. 22:40). The first command- nified him. We would do well to be better to be meek like Moses, who ment is not suspended just because as meek as Moses (see Num. 12:3). learned things he “never had sup- of our vigorous pursuit of a lesser Jesus never, never, never lost His posed” (Moses 1:10). Yet, sadly, good, for we do not worship a lesser focus! Though He went about doing brothers and sisters, in the subtle in- god. so very much good, He always knew terplay of agency and identity, there Before enjoying the harvests of that the Atonement awaited, plead- is so much hesitation. The surrender righteous efforts, let us therefore ing with perspective, “Father, save of the mind is actually a victory, be- first acknowledge God’s hand. me from this hour: but for this cause cause it then introduces us to God’s Otherwise, the rationalizations ap- came I unto this hour” (John 12:27; stretching and “higher” ways! (see pear, and they include, “My power see also 5:30; 6:38). Isa. 55:9). and the might of mine hand hath As you and I develop additional Ironically, inordinate attention, gotten me this wealth” (Deut. 8:17). love, patience, and meekness, the even to good things, can diminish Or, we “vaunt” ourselves, as ancient more we have to give God and our devotion to God. For instance, Israel would have done (except for humanity. Moreover, no one else one can be too caught up in sports Gideon’s deliberately small army), is placed exactly as we are in our

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 37 Consider this: What of Jesus’ min- istry if He had performed additional miracles but without the transcend- ing miracle of Gethsemane and Calvary? His other miracles brought blessed extensions of life and less- ened suffering—for some. But how could these miracles possibly com- pare with the greatest miracle of the universal Resurrection? (see 1 Cor. 15:22). The multiplying of the loaves and fishes fed a hungry multitude. Even so, recipients were soon hun- gry again, while those who partake of the Bread of Life will never hunger again (see John 6:51, 58). In pondering and pursuing conse- cration, understandably we tremble inwardly at what may be required. Yet the Lord has said consolingly, “My grace is sufficient for you” (D&C 17:8). Do we really believe Him? He has also promised to make weak things strong (see Ether 12:27). Are we really willing to submit to that process? Yet if we desire fulness, we cannot hold back part! Having our wills increasingly swallowed up by the will of the Conferencegoers look out at the waterfall on the south side of the Conference Center. Father actually means an enhanced individuality, stretched and more ca- opportune human orbits. opportunities; He has given us our pable of receiving “all that [God] Granted, the stepping-stones take possessions; He has given us our ap- hath” (D&C 84:38). Besides, how us into new territory which we may pointed mortal spans complete with could we be entrusted with His “all” be very reluctant to explore. Hence, the needed breaths (see D&C 64:32). until our wills are much more like the successful users of the stepping- Guided by such perspective, we will His? Nor could His “all” be fully ap- stones are powerful motivators for avoid serious errors of proportion. preciated by the partially committed. the rest of us. We usually pay more Some of these are far less amusing Frankly, it is our prospective selves attention to those we quietly admire. than would be hearing a double we betray by holding back whatever The hungry prodigal son remem- quartet and mistaking it for the the “part.” No need therefore to ask, bered the menus in his home, but he Tabernacle Choir! “Lord, is it I?” (Matt. 26:22). Rather, was also drawn by other memories, No wonder President Hinckley let us inquire about our individual declaring, “I will arise and go to my has stressed our being a covenant stumbling blocks, “Lord, is it this?” father” (Luke 15:18). people, emphasizing the covenants We may have known the answer for In striving for ultimate submis- of the sacrament, tithing, and the a long time and may need resolve sion, our wills constitute all we really temple, citing sacrifice as the “very more than His response. have to give God anyway. The usual essence of the Atonement” (Teachings The greatest happiness in God’s gifts and their derivatives we give to of Gordon B. Hinckley [1997], 147). generous plan is finally reserved for Him could be stamped justifiably Breathtaking submissiveness was those who are willing to stretch and “Return to Sender,” with a capital S. achieved by the Savior as He faced to pay the costs of journeying to His Even when God receives this one gift the anguish and agonies of the regal realm. Brothers and sisters, in return, the fully faithful will re- Atonement and “would that [He] “come, let us anew [this] journey ceive “all that [He] hath” (D&C might not drink the bitter cup, and pursue” (“Come, Let Us Anew,” 84:38). What an exchange rate! shrink” (D&C 19:18). On our small, Hymns, no. 217). Meanwhile, certain realities imperfect scale, we face tests and In the name of the Lord of the remain: God has given us our lives, wish that these would somehow be outstretched arm (see D&C 103:17; our agency, our talents, and our taken away. 136:22), even Jesus Christ, amen.

38 PRIESTHOOD SESSION would tell us stories like this: “One 6 April 2002 frosty morning I washed the steps leading to the official residence of the President of the Church. It nearly led to his downfall, for I let the water BECOMING MEN IN WHOM freeze before drying. Then I had to take boiling water and thaw the ice and take towels to dry the stones. The THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS steps were nearly clean, but my class- mates were passing on their way to Elder L. Tom Perry school before the job was completed. Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles It was a humbling experience.” By telling these stories, I don’t want to leave you with the impres- The Lord is bound by solemn covenant to bless sion that my father was a male twin our lives according to our faithfulness. to Cinderella. The Smith family took this poor farm boy from Idaho into Only He can turn us into men in whom their home while he finished high the Spirit of God, namely the Holy Ghost, is. school and attended the University of Utah. They included him in their family activities, around the dinner table, and at family prayer. My father shared with us his witness that the his father to leave the farm and seek prophet Joseph F. Smith was truly a his education elsewhere, but he had man of God: “When I kneeled with to make it on his own. Arriving in the prophet, in family prayer, and lis- Salt Lake City, he heard of an em- tened to his earnest supplications for ployment position being offered in the blessings of the Lord upon his the home of President Joseph F. family and their flocks and their Smith. He was hired to care for the herds, I realized that those same hu- prophet’s two cows. In our family miliating cows were the subject of home evenings we would want Dad his blessings, my feet were brought to relate experiences about his early solidly to earth. . . . Most great men I life of living in the home of the have known have been deflated by prophet. We would hear him make intimate contact. Not so with the reports like this: prophet Joseph F. Smith. Every com- Sister Smith instructed my father mon everyday act added inches to in his duties, explaining that the his greatness. To me he was prophet cows “were aristocrats, and you must even while washing his hands or un- treat them well. You are to keep tying his shoes.” them so clean and train them so well The lessons learned taught us a want to address my remarks that if I should ever at any time con- great appreciation and love for a tonight to you great young men clude to move them into the parlor, prophet of God. who bear the holy Aaronic they would be clean enough to en- My father’s description of the PIriesthood. What a special blessing it ter.” Dad said he understood milking prophet Joseph F. Smith reminds me is to bear the priesthood of God, but not laundering cows. of the Pharaoh’s statement about which can only multiply our powers, Before milking each morning and Joseph of Egypt: “Can we find such a abilities, and discernment. To illus- night, they were thoroughly washed one as this is, a man in whom the trate the blessings received from this and dried with hot water, soap, and Spirit of God is?” (Gen. 41:38). privilege, I would like to speak about towels prepared for that purpose. My father’s stories tell us about two men of God, both of whom car- They were fed the best of hay and President Smith, his family, and his ried the name of Joseph. milked at exactly the same hour cows, and they also reveal how times My father had a unique experi- twice a day. have changed since the early 20th ence when he was the age of a priest. In addition to his duties with the century. I don’t think my father ever There were no high schools where Smith family and their “aristocratic” imagined our modern-day comput- he lived, and he wanted an educa- cows, my father was asked on occa- ers that sit on small desks and have tion. He received permission from sion to do some housework. He speeds measured in gigahertz,

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 39 Messages of the First Presidency of The One day when Joseph was check- Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day ing up on his brothers as they tended Saints, 6 vols. [1965–75], 5:4). the flocks, they decided they’d had It is important that your families about enough of Joseph and wanted assist you in learning about the to do away with him. An opportunity gospel of our Lord and Savior. Then, came to sell Joseph as a slave to a all of us must rely on the gift of the company of Ishmeelites traveling on Holy Ghost to guide us in discerning their way to Egypt. right from wrong. This is where the Suddenly, Joseph found himself example of Joseph of Egypt helps in- in a strange land with strange cus- struct each of us. He was a man who toms, a strange religion, and worst of relied on the Spirit of the Lord so all, being sold as a slave. Joseph pre- completely that even a man who sented himself so well and so ably was blinded by the practice of idola- that he was purchased by “Potiphar, try, namely Pharaoh, recognized his an officer of Pharaoh and captain of unusual countenance and strength. the guard” (Gen. 37:36). Let us try tonight to see what “And the Lord was with Joseph, great messages we can gain from a [and he carried a spirit with him that study of great leaders we find in the helped as he became] a prosperous scriptures. Joseph Fielding Smith in- man; and he was in the house of his structed us in his Answers to Gospel master the Egyptian. Questions: “And his master saw that the Lord “There is ample evidence that was with him, and that the Lord boys were called and ordained in an- made all that he did to prosper in his cient times. In antediluvian times, hand. when the lives of men were greatly “And Joseph found grace in his prolonged, some were called to act at sight, and he served him: and comparatively tender years. Enoch [Potiphar] made him overseer over was but twenty-five when he was or- his house, and all that he had he put storage measured in gigabytes. I also dained by Adam; . . . and Noah re- into his hand. don’t think he ever imagined the ceived the priesthood when he was “And it came to pass from the time evils that Satan can do with these but ten years of age [see D&C 107:48, that he had made him overseer in his same marvelous technologies. 52]. How old Joseph, son of Israel, house, and over all that he had, that Through his evil ways, Satan has was when he received the priest- the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s been able to spread many new, infec- hood is not recorded; but it must house for Joseph’s sake; and the tious viruses. These viruses will in- have been when he was very young. blessing of the Lord was upon all flict great damage on our spirits if we He was sold by his brethren when that he had in the house, and in the do not have powerful ways of de- he was only seventeen, and he must field. fending against them. This causes have had the priesthood before that “A nd he left all that he had in me to think of the greatest antivirus time, for he exercised it in the land Joseph’s hand; and he knew not program of all—that is the gift of the of Egypt [see Gen. 37:2; 40:8–19; ought he had, save the bread which Holy Ghost. 41:14–36]” (comp. Joseph Fielding he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly About this gift, President Joseph F. Smith Jr., 5 vols. [1957–66], 2:9). person, and well favoured” (Gen. Smith said: “ ‘The gift of the Holy Tu r ning to the book of Genesis in 39:2–6). Ghost,’ is a special blessing sealed the Old Testament, we find the story One day as Joseph was working upon baptized repentant believers in of Joseph. Joseph was a member of a in the house, he found himself in a Jesus Christ, and is ‘an abiding wit- family that had 11 brothers—10 of difficult position. Potiphar’s wife ness.’ The spirit of God may be en- them were older than he. His father made unwanted approaches to him. joyed as a temporary influence by seemed to favor him more than the Joseph immediately knew that he which divine light and power come others. He made Joseph a coat of was in the wrong place. We have to mankind for special purposes and many colors, let him remain at home, him saying: occasions. But the gift of the Holy and instructed him occasionally to “There is none greater in this Ghost, which was received by the go out and check up on his brothers house than I; neither hath he kept apostles on the day of Pentecost, and who were tending the flocks. Joseph back any thing from me but thee, be- is bestowed in confirmation, is a per- also had dreams that seemed to put cause thou art his wife: how then manent witness and higher endow- him in a place of authority ahead of can I do this great wickedness, and ment” (in James R. Clark, comp., his brothers. sin against God? . . .

40 “And she caught him by his gar- ment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out” (Gen. 39:9, 12). We learn a great lesson from Joseph. When he was presented with a temptation, he immediately separated himself from even the appearance of evil. All of us have events in our lives which find us in challenging situations. When we are confronted with that which is evil and degrad- ing—whether it be the wrong kind of music, a television program, or the Internet which places us in the wrong environment— how strengthening it is to remem- ber the story of Joseph: “And [he] fled, and got him out” (Gen. 39:12). He removed himself from the temptation. Even making the right choices did No one could interpret his dream. faced with a time of decision. It will not free Joseph from the challenges The butler finally remembered surely be a strong warning voice to he faced in life. When Potiphar re- Joseph. He told the Pharaoh about tell you to turn off the wrong kind of turned to his home, his wife com- Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams. music, to flee from the degrading plained to her husband that Joseph “Then Pharaoh sent and called television programs, or to get out of had mocked her. Potiphar was so up- Joseph, and they brought him hastily a Web page that will only bring evil set that he “took him, and put him out of the dungeon: and he shaved thoughts into your mind. The Holy into the prison, a place where the himself, and changed his raiment, Spirit will let you know when you king’s prisoners were bound: and he and came in unto Pharaoh” (Gen. are in forbidden territory. was there in the prison. 41:14). I promise you, if you will heed the “[And again] the Lord was with Joseph was able to interpret the voice of warning of the Holy Ghost Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and Pharaoh’s dream. The Pharaoh, be- and will follow His direction, you [He] gave him favour in the sight of ing so impressed, made Joseph one will be blessed with the ministering the keeper of the prison. of his servants. Again the Lord was of angels, which will add wisdom, “[Soon] the keeper of the prison with Joseph. Soon Joseph rose to a knowledge, power, and glory to your committed to Joseph’s hand all the position of being second to the life. Remember, the Lord is bound by prisoners that were in the prison; Pharaoh in all the land of Egypt. solemn covenant to bless our lives and whatsoever they did there, he There was something special that dis- according to our faithfulness. Only was the doer of it” (Gen. 39:20–22). tinguished Joseph from all the other He can turn us into men in whom But the Lord was with Joseph, servants. Pharaoh remarked what the Spirit of God, namely the Holy and an opportunity was again pre- made Joseph different from all of the Ghost, is. sented to him while he served in others when he said, “Can we find What a blessing it is to bear the prison. Two of the Pharaoh’s ser- such a one as this is, a man in whom Lord’s holy priesthood and have that vants were also cast into prison. Each the Spirit of God is?” (Gen. 41:38). power and strength within us. May of them had a dream which Joseph You will notice in each situation in the Lord inspire and direct us to was able to interpret. One of them which Joseph found himself that the study the stories of great prophets was to lose his life in prison; the Lord was with him. It was easy to who have walked the earth. May we other would again in three days re- recognize the special spirit in him glean from their lives that which will turn to his position as chief butler for because of the way he lived and draw us closer to our Maker and the Pharaoh. Both dreams came to heeded the voice of the Lord to help us enjoy the blessings and fruits pass. The butler returned to his high direct him. that come from the gospel of our position with the Pharaoh and forgot That same recognition will surely Lord and Savior. May we be so in- all about Joseph until two years had be with each of us as we are led and spired to follow His path is my hum- passed. directed by His Holy Spirit. Listen to ble prayer in the name of Jesus Then the Pharaoh had a dream. the still, small voice when you are Christ, amen.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 41 perfect, and we expected a delightful journey. However, as we traveled along, dark clouds gathered and THIS ROAD WE CALL LIFE brought rain, which eventually be- Elder Ben B. Banks came sleet and hail and made us ex- Of the Presidency of the Seventy tremely cold and wet and miserable. As we concluded day one of our journey and reached our overnight destination, I was reminded that life As you stay on the right path, the reward can be just like that day. Fortunately, at the end of life’s journey is well worth the we had prepared for all types of weather conditions; had we not moments of adversity you experience along the way. done so, it would have been difficult to complete our journey that first day. At each stage of life’s journey, we should set out full of hope and I hope in some small way this optimism, but we should be pre- evening that you can learn from my pared nonetheless to face opposition nearly 70 years of traveling this road or hardship at some point. we call life. Your parents or grand- The patterns you establish in your parents may have already told you youth may accompany you through- this: “The older you get, the quicker out the rest of your mortal life. By time seems to pass.” It is as though making the right choices now, you one minute you are 12 with your will be able to take the path that will whole life in front of you, and the help you endure the coldest and next minute you are nearly 70 with bleakest moments later. an expanding waistline in front of For example, if you are in the you! habit of using foul language, the It is hard to believe it was nearly longer you use it, the harder it is to 13 years ago when I last spoke in change and stop using it. Better now general priesthood meeting. At that to choose a different road, one that time I told the brethren about a jour- leads to cleanliness in thought and ney I made by bicycle with my sons word and action so that you can en- and drew from that experience the joy the companionship of the Holy rethren, I am delighted to be importance of preparing well for the Ghost. Imagine the difficulty of serv- with you this evening. I too journey of life. ing a mission and having bad lan- want to speak specifically with Today I want to tell you about guage pop into your mind when you Bthe young men of the Aaronic other journeys I have made and need to have the Spirit with you as Priesthood. I love you and care very share the lessons I have learned from your constant companion. If using much about you. them. bad language is a problem for you, In the new For the Strength of Youth Recently, some members of my now is the time to change. booklet, the First Presidency says to family determined it would be fun to On day two of our trip, we you: “Our beloved young men . . . bicycle from Bozeman, Montana, to headed to West Yellowstone. we have great confidence in you. Jackson Hole, Wyoming, in the Everything was as it should be—the You are choice spirits who have United States. This 225-mile journey bicycles were running smoothly, our come forth in this day when the re- would take us three days, and we legs rested, as we progressed toward sponsibilities and opportunities, as would cross the Continental Divide our second destination. It was then well as the temptations, are the on three occasions. We determined that I realized if we are not careful greatest. You are at the beginning of that traveling through the mountain when everything is going just right your journey through this mortal passes with good weather would be in life, there can be a temptation to life. Your Heavenly Father wants a wonderful experience that would forget our Heavenly Father and give your life to be joyful and to lead you help us appreciate God’s creations. credit to ourselves for our happy back into His presence. The decisions After careful planning and prepa- state. Don’t make that mistake. you make now will determine much ration, two of my sons and my only The Prophet Joseph Smith taught, of what will follow during your life daughter and I set out on the first “Happiness is the object and design and throughout eternity” ([pam- day to cycle to our overnight stop in of our existence; and will be the end phlet, 2001], 2). Big Sky, Montana. The morning was thereof, if we pursue the path that

42 leads to it; and this path is virtue, up- rightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 255–56). The Book of Mormon is replete with accounts of those who were blessed by the Lord and then became boastful of their accomplishments. Eventually in their pride they left the correct path and lost all they had as they fell away from the truth. Make sure you don’t become like the Nephites of old; always remember the true source of your blessings. On day three of our journey, I learned that even though we may have some uphill struggles in our lives, our attitude will determine how we face them. On that day we crossed the Continental Divide three times, rising from an elevation of 4,800 feet to 8,300 feet. Climbing We had a decision to make. Do we no matter how difficult things can steep mountain passes on a bike re- try to reach our planned destination, become on this road we call life, quires the right attitude to get to the or do we head for the nearest island great happiness is waiting for those right altitude. It’s the same with life. and wait for the storm to pass? The who keep the commandments and By setting worthwhile goals and answer seems obvious now, but at the endure to the end. keeping your eyes fixed on them, time it was not an easy decision to Young men of the Aaronic you will learn self-discipline and ac- make. By carrying on, we might arrive Priesthood, you have a responsibility complish much. Yes, there were at our planned campsite. By delaying to remain firmly focused on your times when climbing the steep our journey, we would arrive very eternal destination. Yes, life’s jour- mountain grades was as much as I late and may have to travel in the neys can have many ups and downs. could bear, but I didn’t give up, be- dark. As we pondered the options, we Yes, there will be days when you will cause I was fixed in my purpose. had the impression to head to the feel the going is tough. But as you Young men of the Aaronic nearest island quickly. As we did so, a stay on the right path, the reward at Priesthood, I urge you to set goals for much worse-than-anticipated storm the end of life’s journey is well yourselves, such as completing semi- rolled by us. Had we elected to con- worth the moments of adversity you nary, serving an honorable mission, tinue canoeing, we would have put experience along the way. graduating from college, and being our lives in great peril. Again, from the For the Strength of worthy of a temple marriage. At your Here in mortality we are called Youth booklet, the First Presidency age these may seem like very big upon to make serious decisions, the writes: “May you keep your minds goals, but if you start climbing now outcome of which can have a lasting and bodies clean from the sins of the you will be so much better prepared effect upon our spiritual future. I en- world so you can do the great work to accomplish them. courage you to always be worthy to that lies before you. We pray that Two years ago Elder Richard G. seek for the Spirit to help you always you will be worthy to carry on the Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve choose the right. responsibilities of building the king- Apostles and I had the opportunity In the Book of Mormon, Nephi dom of God and preparing the to go on a canoe trip into the tells us: “Then are ye in this strait world for the Second Coming of the Quetico wilderness area in Ontario, and narrow path which leads to eter- Savior” (page 3). Canada, portaging from lake to lake. nal life; yea, ye have entered in by My young friends, please know As we reached the halfway point the gate; ye have done according to the importance of being wise by fol- across one of the larger lakes, the the commandments of the Father lowing the counsel of our prophets, weather turned very bad, and the and the Son; and ye have received and happiness will be yours once tranquil water turned angry the Holy Ghost” (2 Ne. 31:18). throughout life’s journey. and perilous, tossing our little canoe As our family concluded the 225- Of this I so testify in the name of to and fro. mile bicycle journey, we learned that Jesus Christ, amen.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 43 blessings of God,” he had been an in- strument in bringing over 1,800 souls into the Church within a period of BECOMING A eight months.7 Wilford Woodruff claimed the Book of Mormon promise that “God has provided a means that man, GREAT BENEFIT through faith, might work mighty miracles; therefore he becometh a great benefit to his fellow beings.”8 TO OUR FELLOW BEINGS My young brethren of the Aaronic Elder Spencer J. Condie Priesthood, I would remind you that Of the Seventy our Father in Heaven not only wants you to be good, but to be good for something, to serve and bless the I pray that you wonderful young men will not only lives of others, and to become a ben- efit to your fellow beings. be worthy to receive ministering angels, but that you . . . We read in the Gospel of Luke will become a ministering angel in the lives of others. that “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”9 Inasmuch as our earthly quest for perfection involves becom- ing more like the Savior, then we, said: “The family were about to sit too, should increase in wisdom and down to breakfast as we came in. In stature, and in favor with God and those days it was the custom of the man. Missourians to ask you to eat even Priesthood quorum activities and though they were hostile to you; so Mutual activities with the young he asked us to take breakfast, and we women, when carefully and prayer- were very glad of the invitation. He fully planned and discussed in the knew we were Mormons; and as bishopric youth committee,10 will soon as we began to eat, he began to help every young man and young swear about the Mormons. He had a woman to grow in wisdom as they large platter of bacon and eggs, and gain a greater appreciation for the plenty of bread on the table, and his scriptures and the words of the liv- swearing did not hinder our eating, ing prophets and as they participate for the harder he swore the harder in Mutual activities involving “any- we ate, until we got our stomachs thing virtuous, lovely, or of good re- full; then we arose from the table, port or praiseworthy.”11 took our hats, and thanked him for Counseling together in the bish- our breakfast. The last we heard of opric youth committee also provides s a young man of 27, Wilford him he was still swearing. I trust valuable training for an entire gener- Woodruff was ordained a the Lord will reward him for our ation of future leaders who learn to priest on November 5, 1834. breakfast.”3 work effectively together in councils. EightA days later he began a two-year At the end of the first year of that You young men will grow in mission in the southern states.1 One mission he recounted that he had stature and physical strength as you night he and his companion found “traveled three thousand two hun- engage in folk dancing, sports, and lodging with a family who provided dred and forty-eight miles, held one wholesome, friendly athletic compe- them with a bare floor for a bed, hundred and seventy meetings, tition characterized by good sports- which he described as “pretty hard [and] baptized forty-three persons.”4 manship. You will grow in favor with after walking sixty miles without His first mission to the southern God as you engage in family history anything to eat.” 2 states was followed by two brief mis- research, perform baptisms in the The next day they walked 12 sions to the Fox Islands off the coast temple for deceased ancestors, be- miles through the rain until they of Maine,5 and then subsequently come a faithful home teacher, fre- came to the house of a man who two missions to England.6 During his quently clean the chapel, visit happened to be a member of the latter mission in England, in 1840, he nursing homes, and help beautify Missouri mob. Brother Woodruff acknowledged that, “through the your communities. As you do so, you

44 will exemplify King Benjamin’s counsel that “when ye are in the ser- vice of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.”12 A wise youth leader will place less emphasis on fund-raising activities and a much greater emphasis upon rendering selfless service to others. You young men will increase in favor with man and become better prepared for missions, marriage, and future employment as you learn more about various careers and develop greater self-confidence through giving speeches, participat- ing in original one-act plays, and tal- ent shows. Our youth activities should reflect our belief that “men are, that they might have joy,”13 and we should be Visitors climb the ramp to the Christus in the North Visitors’ Center. willing to share that joy with others. Not long ago I met a woman from Cowdery received the Aaronic the Holy Ghost “will show unto you the East who is now living in the Salt Priesthood under the hands of the all things what ye should do.”17 Lake Valley. She is a devout member resurrected John the Baptist, they re- Satan would have you surrender of another Christian church, and I ceived “the keys of the ministering of your moral agency to various forms asked her how she enjoyed living angels,”14 and so did you when you of addictive behavior, but a loving among the Latter-day Saints. She were ordained. I pray that you won- Heavenly Father has promised you said: “My husband and I get along derful young men will not only be through His prophet Isaiah that fine, but I worry about our teenage worthy to receive ministering angels, through sincere fasting, as you sub- daughter. Each Wednesday evening but that you, like young Wilford due your physical appetites, He will about seven o’clock, several girls in Woodruff, will become a ministering help you “loose the bands of wicked- our neighborhood walk right past angel in the lives of others as you ex- ness” and “break every yoke.”18 Claim our home headed somewhere to- ercise your faith in working “mighty that promise through fasting. Our gether, and not once have they miracles,” thereby becoming a “great emptiness will provide more room for stopped to invite our 14-year-old benefit” to your fellow beings. the fulness of the gospel. The hollow- daughter to go with them.” Satan would diminish your faith ing precedes the hallowing. I said, “My dear, this is your lucky and dilute your priesthood power to Scripture study and fasting, pre- day; I am in a position to get that work mighty miracles, but a loving ceded and followed by prayer, really problem fixed.” She readily gave me Heavenly Father has provided you can “change the night to day.”19 The her daughter’s name and address, with providential protection—the entire life of the Prophet Joseph and we made contact with both the gift of the Holy Ghost. In the first Smith demonstrates the power of stake president and the seminary chapter of the Book of Mormon we prayer and the fulfillment of the principal. learn that as Lehi read the scriptures Lord’s promise that “if thou shalt Our friends and neighbors are “he was filled with the Spirit of the ask, thou shalt receive revelation children of a loving Father in Lord.”15 Nephi later promises us that upon revelation.”20 One important Heaven who desires that all of us as we “feast upon the words of Christ revelation you will receive will be in- return to Him. Can we be content . . . the words of Christ will tell [us] sight into how you can best touch when not all the members of our all things what [we] should do.”16 the lives of others who have lost quorum are in attendance Sunday You may be facing decisions re- their way. In so doing, it is well to re- morning? Surely we can extend our- garding a mission, your future ca- member President Hinckley’s wise selves to the less active and those reer, and, eventually, marriage. As counsel: “The Holy Ghost is the of other faiths and warmly invite you read the scriptures and pray for Testifier of Truth, who can teach them to our Young Men and Young direction, you may not actually see men things they cannot teach one Women Mutual activities, seminary, the answer in the form of printed another.”21 Sunday School classes, and sacra- words on the page, but as you read President Gordon B. Hinckley ment meetings. you will receive distinct impressions, considers good friends to be one of When Joseph Smith and Oliver and promptings, and, as promised, the key ingredients in retaining new

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 45 converts and in reclaiming the less active, and Robert Browning elo- quently described how this is so: . . . Were I elect like you, IT CAN’T HAPPEN TO ME I would encircle me with love, and raise President James E. Faust A rampart of my fellows; it should seem Second Counselor in the First Presidency Impossible for me to fail, so watched By gentle friends who made my cause their own.22 Your future may not hold fame or fortune, but Late in life, as President of the it can be something far more lasting and fulfilling. Church, Wilford Woodruff declared: “It does not make any difference Remember that what we do in life echoes in eternity. whether a man is a Priest or an Apostle, if he magnifies his calling. A Priest holds the keys of the minister- ing of angels. Never in my life, as an Titanic who stated that there was no Apostle, as a Seventy, or as an Elder, fear of “God, man or devil,” because have I ever had more of the protec- the Titanic was built so solidly that it tion of the Lord than while holding could readily withstand collision the office of a Priest. The Lord re- with other ships or contact with any vealed to me by visions, by revela- other force, including icebergs.2 The tions, and by the Holy Spirit, many Titanic was in fact three football things that lay before me.”23 fields in length, 12 stories high, and My young beloved brethren, I built of the finest steel. On that fate- pray that each of us, through our ful night of April 14, 1912, other faith, will use our priesthood power ships warned of ice ahead. Yet the to work mighty miracles through Titanic continued to increase her sharing the gospel and serving oth- speed, cutting through the cold ers, thereby becoming a great benefit Atlantic Ocean. By the time the look- to our fellow beings, in the name of outs sighted the iceberg, it was too Jesus Christ, amen. late. The Titanic could not turn out of NOTES its way in time, and the iceberg 1. See Matthias F. Cowley, Wilford Woodruff: scraped along the starboard side of History of His Life and Labors (1909), 47. y beloved brethren of the the ship, creating a series of punc- 2. Quoted in Cowley, Wilford Woodruff, 50. 3. Quoted in Cowley, Wilford Woodruff, 50. priesthood of God, the re- tures. Two hours and 40 minutes 4. Quoted in Cowley, Wilford Woodruff, 58. sponsibility of speaking to later the brand-new Titanic sank to 5. Quoted in Cowley, Wilford Woodruff, youM tonight is overwhelming. I have the bottom of the ocean. Over 1,500 70–86. 6. Quoted in Cowley, Wilford Woodruff, prayed for inspiration and guidance, people were drowned. 99–113; 114–28; 129–46. and I seek your understanding. Usually one-eighth of an iceberg 7. Quoted in Cowley, Wilford Woodruff, One of the great myths in life is is above the waterline. The ice in the 119. when men think they are invincible. cold core is very compact, and keeps 8. Mosiah 8:18. 9. Luke 2:52. Too many think that they are men of seven-eighths of the iceberg under 10. Church Handbook of Instructions, Book 2: steel, strong enough to withstand water. As it was when the Titanic en- Priesthood and Auxiliary Leaders (1998), 318–19. any temptation. They delude them- countered the iceberg, so it is with 11. A of F 1:13. 12. Mosiah 2:17. selves into thinking, “It cannot hap- us. We can often only see part of the 13. 2 Ne. 2:25. pen to me.” Borrowing a thought danger that lies ahead. 14. D&C 13:1. from Bertrand Russell, “We are all History is full of examples of men 15. 1 Ne. 1:8–12. 16. 2 Ne. 32:3. like the turkey who wakes up who were gifted and able but who, 17. 2 Ne. 32:5. [Thanksgiving] morning expecting in a moment of weakness, threw 18. Isa. 58:6. lunch as usual. Things can go wrong away their promising lives. King 19. “Did You Think to Pray?” Hymns, no. 140. at any time.”1 Brethren, it can happen David is a tragic example. As a youth 20. D&C 42:61. 21. Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Father, Son, to any of us at any time. So much of he was handsome, brave, and full of and Holy Ghost,” Ensign, Mar. 1998, 7. our course in life is influenced by faith. He slew the frightening giant, 22. “Paracelsus,” in The Poetical Works of forces we only partly perceive. Goliath. He became king. He had ev- Robert Browning, 2 vols. (1902), 1:25. 23. “Discourse,” Millennial Star, 5 Oct. 1891, President Charles W. Penrose used erything a man could desire. Yet 628–29. to tell the story of an officer on the when he saw Bathsheba, he wanted

46 her even though she was another man’s wife. He had her husband, Uriah the Hittite, sent to the front of the hottest battle so that he would be killed. Uriah died in battle, and David married Bathsheba. As a con- sequence of this evil deed, David lost his spiritual inheritance.3 For all the good David accomplished, much of it was negated because he allowed himself to succumb to a serious per- sonal flaw. I once heard a man tell his sons, “I can drive closer to the edge than you because I have had more experience than you.” He thought he was in control, but he was really in denial. “The trouble with using experience as a guide is that the final exam often A view from the southwest side of the Conference Center auditorium shows its plaza, comes first and then the lesson.”4 terrace, and balcony levels full. Some people think their age and ex- perience make them better able to controls you. The first time, you usu- to violence, improper sexual relations, withstand temptation. This is a ally feel nothing. That’s when it vulgarity, taking the Lord’s name in falsehood. grabs you.”7 vain, and other associated evils. I remember hearing President “Just one cigarette—just to see I have spoken at some length J. Reuben Clark Jr. tell of the time how it feels.” But beware of the dan- about things you don’t want to hap- when one of his children was going ger lurking here. Nicotine is highly pen to you. Now let’s consider some out on a date. He asked them to addictive.8 As few as four cigarettes of the good things that you do want to come home at a certain hour. may be enough to set someone on a happen to you. If you are willing to “Chafing under that constant, urgent path to becoming a regular smoker.9 pay the price for success, good things, reminder, the [teenager] said, “Just one can of beer.” We do not even great things, can happen to you, ‘Daddy, what is the matter, don’t you know our potential for alcohol addic- even beyond your fondest dreams trust me?’ tion, but one drink usually leads to and expectations! Often we do not “His answer must have shocked another. It is much better never to have even a glimpse of our potential her as he said, ‘No, my [child], I take the first drink. Then you know for happiness and accomplishment in don’t trust you. I don’t even trust you won’t be led to more. this life and in eternity because, as the myself.’ ”5 “The purchase of just one lottery Apostle Paul said, “Now we see So that some things “can’t happen ticket.” This is more subtle than through a glass, darkly.”11 But the to us,” I suggest we learn from other addictions. You may not think lens can be lightened and become President Spencer W. Kimball’s coun- gambling is an addiction because it is crystal clear through the influence of sel: “Develop discipline of self so not a substance taken into the body, the Holy Ghost. The Savior promised that, more and more, you do not but as someone recently wrote, us that the Comforter, which is the have to decide and redecide what “Those who gamble risk more than Holy Ghost, will “teach you all things, you will do when you are con- just money. Their lives and families and bring all things to your remem- fronted with the same temptation are at stake too.”10 brance,”12 and “guide you into all time and time again. You need only “Just one peek into a porno- truth.”13 to decide some things once. How graphic site on the Internet, or a We must recognize that our natu- great a blessing it is to be free of ago- quick look at a centerfold in a racy ral gifts and abilities are limited, but nizing over and over again regarding magazine.” That sounds so harmless, when augmented by inspiration and a temptation. To do such is time- but what we see is so much harder to guidance of the Holy Ghost, our po- consuming and very risky.”6 get rid of than what we take into our tential increases manyfold. You need Someone may rationalize by bodies. Many hardened criminals ad- help from a power beyond your own thinking, “Just one fix of drugs won’t mit they got their start in crime by to do something extraordinarily use- hurt me.” That may sound harmless, viewing obscene pictures. ful. You young men can have oppor- but please know how powerful Some may say that inappropriate tunities and receive blessings beyond drugs are. I quote from a user: entertainment now and again is OK. your wildest dreams and expecta- “There is no controlling drugs. It However, this so often desensitizes us tions. Your future may not hold fame

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 47 or fortune, but it can be something awareness of what we really know. (swifter), altius (higher), and fortius far more lasting and fulfilling. Even though we have been taught (stronger), which have been the offi- Remember that what we do in life the gospel, we may not be fully cial Olympic motto since 1924. echoes in eternity. aware of what the Lord has put in Brethren of the priesthood, we Some of you young men may not our “inward parts” and written in live in a marvelous time. Never in yet have a strong testimony of the di- our hearts.16 As young men of the the history of the Church have we vine origin of this Church like your covenant, you are heirs to great had more witnesses of the truthful- parents have. You may wish you promises. You have the opportunity ness of this holy work. We have our could be more sure that Joseph Smith to become more than “hewers of detractors and critics, as we have al- actually saw in vision God the Father wood and drawers of water.”17 ways had. But never has the Church and His Son, Jesus Christ, and that I do not claim to have an absolute climbed higher, moved swifter, or the Book of Mormon was truly trans- understanding of all of the principles been stronger to accomplish its mis- lated from golden plates. You may of the gospel, but I have come to sion. Now is the time for all of us to have some lingering doubts about the know with certainty the divinity and reach upward and move onward. In law of tithing, the law of chastity, or authority of this Church. This came God’s work we too must be swifter, the Word of Wisdom. This is not un- to me gradually, line upon line and working with greater urgency; usual for some young men your age. precept upon precept. I now know higher, striving for lofty spiritual Your faith may not have been fully that I know, just as you can come to goals; and stronger, relying on God’s tested. You may not yet have had to know that you know. It can happen to strength. It can happen to you. defend your beliefs or lifestyle. I as- you. The sure way to have life’s joys sure you that great things can happen Knowledge comes through faith. and blessings come to you is to to you. You can receive an unwaver- In our day and time we must come follow our living prophet, President ing testimony that this is the Church to know the truthfulness of what Gordon B. Hinckley. So much of Jesus Christ and that through was on the golden plates without good has come to us from our Joseph Smith the gospel has been re- seeing them. They are not available past prophets, but it is President stored to the earth in its fulness. But for us to see and handle as they were Hinckley’s voice we need to that testimony may not come until for the Three Witnesses and for the hear today, his counsel we need to your faith has been tried.14 Eight Witnesses. Some of those who follow so that the best things can Many years ago two General actually saw and handled the golden happen to us. Of this I testify in Authorities called a very young man plates did not remain faithful to the the name of Jesus Christ, amen. to be a new stake president. In his re- Church. Seeing an angel would be a sponse, the new stake president said great experience, but it is far greater NOTES 1. The Oxford Companion to Philosophy, ed. he would give total devotion to his to come to a knowledge of the divin- Te d Honderich (1995), 610. calling and would not ask any of the ity of the Savior through faith and 2. See Joseph Fielding Smith, Church History members of his stake to be more de- the witness of the Spirit.18 and Modern Revelation, 2 vols. (1953), 1:25. 3. See D&C 132:39. voted than he. Then he bore his testi- You can also come to know what 4. Author unknown, quoted in 1,911 Best mony that he believed the gospel with you knew as a valiant son of God in Things Anybody Ever Said, comp. Robert Byrne all his heart and proposed to live it. the premortal existence. It can hap- (1988), 386. 5. As quoted by Harold B. Lee, The Later at lunch one of the General pen to you. But it won’t just happen Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. Williams Authorities asked this new stake automatically. You will have to exer- (1996), 629. president whether he knew abso- cise faith. The only way to acquire 6. President Kimball Speaks Out (1981), 94. 7. Guillermo D. Jalil, “Teen Addiction,” in lutely that this gospel is true. He an- spiritual knowledge and keep it Street-Wise Drug Prevention: A Realistic swered that he did not. The senior burning brightly is to be humble, Approach to Prevent and Intervene in Adolescent Apostle said to his fellow Apostle, prayerful, and to strive diligently to Drug Use (1996), Internet, www.nodrugs.com. “He knows it just as well as you do. keep all of the commandments. 8. See U.S. Department of Education, “Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent’s Guide to The only thing that he does not know At the opening ceremonies of the Prevention, Part 2,” KidSourceOnline, is that he does know it. It will be but a recently concluded 2002 Olympic www.kidsource.com. short time until he does know it. . . . Winter Games in Salt Lake City, the 9. See Janet Brigham, “Tobacco: Quitting for Good,” Ensign, Feb. 2002, 52. You do not need to worry.” Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the 10. Shanna Ghaznavi, “Don’t Bet Your A short time later, the new stake Utah Symphony Orchestra per- Life,” New Era, Feb. 2002, 26. president testified that following a formed a majestic musical piece writ- 11. 1 Cor. 13:12. 12. John 14:26. spiritual experience, “I shed tears of ten by John Williams especially as 13. John 16:13. gratitude to the Lord for the abiding, the official musical theme of the 14. See Ether 12:6. perfect, and absolute testimony that games. It was entitled “Call of the 15. Heber J. Grant, Gospel Standards, comp. came into my life of the divinity of Champions.” Tonight I wish to make G. Homer Durham (1941), 192–93. 15 16. See Jer. 31:33. this work.” a call to the champions. The stirring 17. Josh. 9:21. Many of us do not have a full first words of this piece are citius 18. See John 20:29.

48 she was preparing a final and scanty meal for her son and for herself, and then they would die. THEY PRAY AND THEY GO How implausible to her must President Thomas S. Monson have been Elijah’s response: “Fear First Counselor in the First Presidency not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. Let us, as a mighty body of priesthood, be doers “For thus saith the Lord God of of the word, and not hearers only. Let us pray; Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil then let us go and do. fail, until the day that the Lord sendeth rain upon the earth. “And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and Tahitian sea captains. He said, “They he, and her house, did eat many are amazing. The weather may be days. terrible, the vessels may be leaky, “And the barrel of meal wasted there may be no navigational aids not, neither did the cruse of oil fail.”2 except their inner feelings and the If I were to ask you which of all stars in the heavens, but they pray the passages in the Book of Mormon and they go.” He repeated that is the most widely read, I venture phrase three times. There is a lesson it would be the account found in in that statement. We need to pray, 1 Nephi concerning Nephi, his broth- and then we need to act. Both are ers, his father, and the command to important. obtain from Laban the plates of The promise from the book of brass. Perhaps this is because most of Proverbs gives us courage: us, from time to time, pledge to “Trust in the Lord with all thine again read the Book of Mormon. heart; and lean not unto thine own Usually we begin with 1 Nephi. In understanding. In all thy ways ac- reality, the passages found therein knowledge him, and he shall direct portray beautifully the need to pray thy paths.”1 and then to go and do. Said Nephi, y brethren, I am honored We need but to turn to the ac- “I will go and do the things which by the privilege to speak count found in 1 Kings to appreciate the Lord hath commanded, for I to you this evening. anew the principle that when we fol- know that the Lord giveth no com- WhatM a joy to see this magnificent low the counsel of the Lord, when mandments unto the children of Conference Center filled to its capac- we pray and then go, the outcome men, save he shall prepare a way for ity with those young and old who benefits all. There we read that a them that they may accomplish the hold the priesthood of God. To real- most severe drought had gripped thing which he commandeth them.”3 ize that similar throngs are assem- the land. Famine followed. Elijah the We remember the commandment. bled throughout the world brings to prophet received from the Lord We remember the response. We re- me an overwhelming sense of re- what to him must have been an member the outcome. sponsibility. I pray that the inspira- amazing instruction: “Get thee to In our day and our time, there are tion of the Lord will guide my Zarephath . . . : behold, I have com- many examples concerning the expe- thoughts and inspire my words. manded a widow woman there to riences of those who pray and then Many years ago, on an assign- sustain thee.” When he had found go and do. I share with you a touch- ment to Tahiti, I was talking to our the widow, Elijah declared, “Fetch ing account of a fine family that lived mission president, President me, I pray thee, a little water in a in the beautiful city of Perth, Raymond Baudin, about the Tahitian vessel, that I may drink. Australia. In 1957, four months be- people. They are known as some of “And as she was going to fetch it, fore the dedication of the New the greatest seafaring people in all he called to her, and said, Bring me, I Zealand temple, Donald Cummings, the world. Brother Baudin, who pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine the father, was the president of the speaks French and Tahitian but little hand.” member district in Perth. He and his English, was trying to describe to me Her response described her des- wife and family were determined to the secret of the success of the perate situation as she explained that attend the dedication of the temple,

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 49 although they were of very modest of the Perth Australia Temple. The second is from the 84th sec- financial means. They began to pray, From the movie Shenandoah come tion of the Doctrine and Covenants: to work, and to save. They sold their the spoken words which inspire: “If “Whoso receiveth you, there I will be only car and gathered together every we don’t try, we don’t do; and if we also, for I will go before your face. I penny they could, but a week before don’t do, then why are we here?” will be on your right hand and on their scheduled departure, they were There are now more than 60,000 your left, and my Spirit shall be in still 200 pounds short. Through two full-time missionaries serving the your hearts, and mine angels round unexpected gifts of 100 pounds each, Lord throughout the world. Many of about you, to bear you up.”6 they met their goal just in time. this vast throng are listening in Inspiring is the missionary service Because Brother Cummings couldn’t tonight and viewing this priesthood rendered by Walter Krause, who get time off work for the trip, he de- session of general conference. They lives in Prenzlau, Germany. Brother cided to quit his job. pray and then they go, trusting in Krause, whose dedication to the They traveled by train across the the Lord concerning where they are Lord is legendary, is now 92 years of vast Australian continent, arriving at sent and trusting in their mission age. As a patriarch, he has given Sydney, where they joined other president as to where they serve more than a thousand patriarchal members also traveling to New within their missions. Among the blessings to members living through- Zealand. Brother Cummings and his many revelations concerning their out many parts of Europe. family were among the first sacred callings are two passages Homeless following World War II, Australians to be baptized for the which are favorites of mine. Both are like so many others at that time, dead in the New Zealand temple. from the Doctrine and Covenants. Brother Krause and his family lived They were among the first ones to be The first is from section 100. You in a refugee camp in Cottbus and be- endowed in the New Zealand tem- will remember that Joseph Smith and gan to attend church there. He was ple from far-off Perth, Australia. Sidney Rigdon had been absent from immediately called to lead the They prayed, they prepared, and their families for some time, and they Cottbus branch. Four months later, in then they went. were concerned about them. The November of 1945, the country still When the Cummings family re- Lord revealed unto them this assur- in ruins, district president Richard turned to Perth, Brother Cummings ance, which is comforting to mission- Ranglack came to Brother Krause obtained a new and better job. He was aries throughout the Church: “Verily, and asked him what he would think still serving as district president nine thus saith the Lord unto you, my about going on a mission. Brother years later when it was my privilege friends . . . , your families are well; Krause’s answer reflects his commit- to call him as the first president of the they are in mine hands, and I will do ment to the Church. Said he: “I don’t Perth Australia Stake.4 I think it signifi- with them as seemeth me good; for have to think about it at all. If the cant that he is now the first president in me there is all power.”5 Lord needs me, I’ll go.”

50 He set out on December 1, 1945, passing of James Womack, the patri- on which Brother Kimball was with 20 German marks in his pocket arch of the Shreveport Louisiana seated. He then said, “Now, Brother and a piece of dry bread. One of the Stake. He had served long and had Womack, lean forward and see if branch members had given him a blessed ever so many lives. Years be- the stumps of your arms will reach winter coat left over from a son who fore, President Spencer W. Kimball the top of my head.” To Brother had fallen in the war. Another mem- shared with President Gordon B. Womack’s joy, they touched Brother ber, who was a shoemaker, gave him Hinckley, Elder Bruce R. McConkie, Kimball’s head, and the exclamation a pair of shoes. With these and with and me an experience he had in the came forth, “I can reach you! I can two shirts, two handkerchiefs, and appointment of a patriarch for the reach you!” two pairs of stockings, he left on his Shreveport Louisiana Stake of the “Of course you can reach me,” re- mission. Church. President Kimball de- sponded Brother Kimball. “And if Once, in the middle of winter, he scribed how he interviewed, how you can reach me, you can reach any walked from Prenzlau to Kammin, a he searched, and how he prayed, whom you bless. I will probably be little village in Mecklenburg, where that he might learn the Lord’s will the shortest person you will ever 46 attended the meetings which concerning the selection. For some have seated before you.” were held. He arrived long after dark reason, none of the suggested candi- President Kimball reported to that night after a six-hour march dates was the man for this assign- us that when the name of James over roads, paths, and finally across ment at this particular time. Womack was presented to the stake plowed fields. Just before he reached The day wore on; the evening conference, “the hands of the mem- the village, he came to a large, white, meetings began. Suddenly President bers shot heavenward in an enthusi- flat area which made for easy walk- Kimball turned to the stake presi- astic vote of approval.” ing, and he soon arrived at a mem- dent and asked him to identify a par- Remembered were the words of ber’s home to stay the night. ticular man seated perhaps the Lord to the prophet Samuel at The next morning the game war- two-thirds of the way back from the the time David was designated to be den knocked on the door of the front of the chapel. The stake presi- a future king of Israel: “Man looketh member’s house, asking, “Do you dent replied that the individual was on the outward appearance, but the have a guest?” James Womack, whereupon Lord looketh on the heart.”9 “Yes,” came the reply. President Kimball said: “He is the Brethren, whatever our calling, The game warden continued, man the Lord has selected to be your regardless of our fears or anxieties, “Then come and take a look at his stake patriarch. Please have him let us pray and then go and do, re- tracks.” The large, flat area on which meet with me in the high council membering the words of the Master, Brother Krause had walked was ac- room following the meeting.” even the Lord Jesus Christ, who tually a frozen lake, and some time Stake president Charles Cagle was promised, “I am with you alway, earlier the warden had chopped a startled, for James Womack did not even unto the end of the world.”10 large hole in the middle of the lake wear the label of a typical man. He In the Epistle of James we are for fishing. The wind had driven had sustained terrible injuries while counseled, “Be ye doers of the word, snow over the hole and covered it so in combat during World War II. He and not hearers only, deceiving your that Brother Krause could not have lost both hands and part of an arm, as own selves.”11 seen his danger. His tracks went well as most of his eyesight and part Let us, as a mighty body of priest- right next to the edge of the hole and of his hearing. Nobody had wanted hood, be doers of the word, and not straight to the house of the member, to let him into law school when he re- hearers only. Let us pray; then let us without his knowing anything about turned, yet he finished third in his go and do. it. Weighed down by his backpack class at Louisiana State University. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. and his rubber boots, he would cer- That evening as President Kimball tainly have drowned had he gone met with Brother Womack and in- NOTES 1. Prov. 3:5–6. one step further toward the hole he formed him that the Lord had desig- 2. 1 Kgs. 17:9–11, 13–16; see also v. 12. couldn’t see. He commented later nated him to be the patriarch, there 3. 1 Ne. 3:7. that this event caused quite a stir in was a protracted silence in the room. 4. See Richard J. Marshall, “Saga of 7 Sacrifice,” Ensign, Aug. 1974, 66–67. the village at the time. Then Brother Womack said: “Brother 5. D&C 100:1. Brother Krause’s entire life has Kimball, it is my understanding that 6. D&C 84:88. been to pray and then to go. a patriarch is to place his hands on 7. See Garold N. Davis and Norma S. Davis, “Behind the Iron Curtain: Recollections Should any of us feel inadequate or the head of the person he blesses. As of Latter-day Saints in East Germany, tend to doubt the ability to respond to you can see, I have no hands to place 1945–1989,” Brigham Young University Studies a priesthood call to serve the Lord, let on the head of anyone.” 35, no. 1 (1995): 54–55. this divine truth be remembered: Brother Kimball, in his kind and 8. Matt. 19:26. 8 9. 1 Sam. 16:7. “With God all things are possible.” patient manner, invited Brother 10. Matt. 28:20. Not long ago I learned of the Womack to stand behind the chair 11. James 1:22.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 51 clear the standard set by the Lord. We cannot indulge in sin, let alone try to cover our sins. We cannot grat- PERSONAL WORTHINESS ify our pride. We cannot partake of the vanity of unrighteous ambition. We cannot exercise control, or do- minion, or compulsion upon our TO EXERCISE wives or children, or any others in any degree of unrighteousness. If we do any of these things, the THE PRIESTHOOD powers of heaven are withdrawn. President Gordon B. Hinckley The Spirit of the Lord is grieved. The very virtue of our priesthood is nulli- fied. Its authority is lost. Our behavior in public must be above reproach. The manner of our living, the words we speak, and our everyday Our behavior in private is even more important. behavior have a bearing upon our ef- It must clear the standard set by the Lord. fectiveness as men and boys holding the priesthood. Our fifth article of faith states: “We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by exercise this sacred power. It is of this the laying on of hands by those who that I wish to speak tonight. are in authority, to preach the Gospel I begin by reading to you from the and administer in the ordinances Doctrine and Covenants, section 121: thereof.” “The rights of the priesthood are Even though those in authority inseparably connected with the pow- lay hands upon our heads and we ers of heaven, and . . . the powers of are ordained, we may through our heaven cannot be controlled nor behavior nullify and forfeit any right handled only upon the principles of to exercise this divine authority. righteousness. Section 121 goes on to say: “No “That they may be conferred power or influence can or ought to upon us, it is true; but when we un- be maintained by virtue of the priest- dertake to cover our sins, or to grat- hood, only by persuasion, by long- ify our pride, our vain ambition, or suffering, by gentleness and to exercise control or dominion or meekness, and by love unfeigned; compulsion upon the souls of the “By kindness, and pure knowl- children of men, in any degree of edge, which shall greatly enlarge the unrighteousness, behold, the heav- soul without hypocrisy, and without y dear brethren, I wish to ens withdraw themselves; the Spirit guile” (D&C 121:41–42). speak very plainly this of the Lord is grieved; and when it is Now, my brethren, those are the evening about a matter that withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood parameters within which this priest- IM feel deeply concerned over. What a or the authority of that man” (D&C hood must find expression. It is not great pleasure and a worrisome chal- 121:36–37). as a cloak that we put on and take off lenge it is to speak to you. What a That is the unequivocal word of at will. It is, when exercised in righ- tremendous brotherhood we are as the Lord concerning His divine au- teousness, as the very tissue of our those who hold this precious and thority. What a tremendous obliga- bodies, a part of us at all times and in wonderful priesthood. It comes from tion this places upon each of us. We all circumstances. God, our Eternal Father, who in this who hold the priesthood of God must And so, to you young men who glorious dispensation has, with His stand above the ways of the world. hold the Aaronic Priesthood, you Beloved Son, spoken again from the We must discipline ourselves. We can- have had conferred upon you that heavens. They have sent Their au- not be self-righteous, but we can and power which holds the keys to the thorized servants to bestow this di- must be decent, honorable men. ministering of angels. Think of that vine authority upon men. Our behavior in public must be for a minute. Personal worthiness becomes the above reproach. Our behavior in pri- You cannot afford to do anything standard of eligibility to receive and vate is even more important. It must that would place a curtain between

52 you and the ministering of angels in your behalf. You cannot be immoral in any sense. You cannot be dishonest. You cannot cheat or lie. You cannot take the name of God in vain or use filthy language and still have the right to the ministering of angels. I do not want you to be self- righteous. I want you to be manly, to be vibrant and strong and happy. To those who are athletically in- clined, I want you to be good athletes and strive to become cham- pions. But in doing so, you do not have to indulge in unseemly behav- ior or profane or filthy language. To you young men who look for- ward to going on missions, please do not cloud your lives with anything that would cast a doubt upon your worthiness to go forth as servants of the living God. You must not, you cannot under any circumstances compromise the divine power which you carry within you as ordained ministers of the gospel. By way of warning, and fore- warning, the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles have set forth the following state- ment directed to you: “A s missionaries, you are expected to maintain the highest standards of conduct, including strict observance of the law of chastity, . . . “. . . You should never be alone with anyone else, male or female, adult or child [other than your as- signed companion]. “Even false accusations against an innocent missionary can take many months to investigate and may result Members of the Seventy sing a hymn during a session. in disruption or termination of mis- sionary service. Protect yourselves taint or suspicion or regret. keep your courtship within the from such accusations by never be- When you return home, never bounds of rigid self-discipline. The ing separated from your companion, forget that you are still an elder of Lord has given a mandate and a even in the homes you visit” (First The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- promise. He has said, “Let virtue gar- Presidency statement on missionary day Saints. nish thy thoughts unceasingly.” conduct, 22 Mar. 2002). You will become involved in the Then there follows the promise that You need not worry about these search for an eternal companion. You “thy confidence [shall] wax strong in things if you will at all times observe will wish to marry in the house of the presence of God; and . . . the the rules of missionary service. If the Lord. For you, there should be Holy Ghost shall be thy constant you do so, you will have a wonderful no alternative. Be careful, lest you companion” (D&C 121:45–46). experience, and you will return in destroy your eligibility to be so mar- The wife you choose will be your honor to those you love without ried. Have a wonderful time. But equal. Paul declared, “Neither is the

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 53 man without the woman, neither the that you do within the walls of your is a most despicable and tragic and woman without the man, in the own home” (Harold B. Lee, Doing the terrible thing. I regret to say that Lord” (1 Cor. 11:11). Right Things for the Right Reasons, there has been some very limited ex- In the marriage companionship Brigham Young University Speeches pression of this monstrous evil there is neither inferiority nor superi- of the Year [19 Apr. 1961], 5). among us. It is something that cannot ority. The woman does not walk I am confident that when we be countenanced or tolerated. The ahead of the man; neither does the stand before the bar of God, there Lord Himself said, “But whoso shall man walk ahead of the woman. They will be little mention of how much offend one of these little ones which walk side by side as a son and wealth we accumulated in life or of believe in me, it were better for him daughter of God on an eternal any honors which we may have that a millstone were hanged about journey. achieved. But there will be searching his neck, and that he were drowned She is not your servant, your chat- questions concerning our domestic in the depth of the sea” (Matt. 18:6). tel, nor anything of the kind. relations. And I am convinced that That is very strong language from How tragic and utterly disgusting only those who have walked the Prince of Peace, the Son of God. a phenomenon is wife abuse. Any through life with love and respect I quote from our Church Handbook man in this Church who abuses his and appreciation for their compan- of Instructions: “The Church’s posi- wife, who demeans her, who insults ions and children will receive from tion is that abuse cannot be tolerated her, who exercises unrighteous do- our eternal judge the words, “Well in any form. Those who abuse . . . are minion over her is unworthy to hold done, thou good and faithful ser- subject to Church discipline. They the priesthood. Though he may have vant: . . . enter thou into the joy of should not be given Church callings been ordained, the heavens will with- thy lord” (Matt. 25:21). and may not have a temple recom- draw, the Spirit of the Lord will be I mention another type of abuse. mend. Even if a person who abused grieved, and it will be amen to the au- It is of the elderly. I think it is not a child sexually or physically receives thority of the priesthood of that man. common among us. I hope it is not. I Church discipline and is later re- Any man who engages in this pray that it is not. stored to full fellowship or readmit- practice is unworthy to hold a tem- I believe our people, almost all of ted by baptism, leaders should not ple recommend. them, observe the ancient command- call the person to any position work- I regret to say that I see too much ment, “Honour thy father and thy ing with children or youth unless the of this ugly phenomenon. There are mother: that thy days may be long First Presidency authorizes removal men who cuff their wives about, upon the land which the Lord thy of the annotation of the person’s both verbally and physically. What a God giveth thee” (Ex. 20:12). membership record. tragedy when a man demeans the But how tragic it is, how abso- “In instances of abuse, the first re- mother of his children. lutely revolting is abuse of the sponsibility of the Church is to help It is true that there are a few elderly. those who have been abused and to women who abuse their husbands. More and more we are living protect those who may be vulnerable But I am not speaking to them longer, thanks to the miracle of mod- to future abuse” (Book 1: Stake tonight. I am speaking to the men of ern science and medical practice. But Presidencies and Bishoprics [1998], this Church, men upon whom the with old age comes a deterioration of 157–58). Almighty has bestowed His holy physical capacity and sometimes For a long period now we have priesthood. mental capacity. I have said before worked on this problem. We have My brethren, if there be any that I have discovered that there is urged bishops, stake presidents, and within the sound of my voice who much of lead in the years that are others to reach out to victims, to are guilty of such behavior, I call called golden. I am so profoundly comfort them, to strengthen them, to upon you to repent. Get on your grateful for the love and solicitude of let them know that what happened knees and ask the Lord to forgive our children toward their mother was wrong, that the experience was you. Pray to Him for the power to and their father. How beautiful is the not their fault, and that it need never control your tongue and your heavy picture of a son or daughter going happen again. hand. Ask for the forgiveness of your out of his or her way to assist with We have issued publications, es- wife and your children. President kindness and benevolence and love tablished a telephone line where McKay was wont to say, “No other an aged parent. Church officers may receive counsel success can compensate for failure in Now I wish to mention another in handling cases, and offered pro- the home” (quoting J. E. McCulloch, form of abuse that has been much fessional help through LDS Family Home: The Savior of Civilization [1924], publicized in the media. It is the sor- Services. 42; in Conference Report, Apr. 1935, did and evil abuse of children by These acts are often criminal in 116). And President Lee said, “The adults, usually men. Such abuse is not their nature. They are punishable most important part of the Lord’s new. There is evidence to indicate under the law. Professional coun- work that you will do, is the work that it goes back through the ages. It selors, including lawyers and social

54 Afternoon sun casts long shadows in the spacious, open area inside the plaza level entrances of the Conference Center.

A wide-angle view shows the Conference Center from the southwest corner of its plaza, near the intersection of South Temple and 100 West Streets.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 55 GENERALAUTHORITIEST OFHECHURCH OFJESUSCHRIST OFLATTER-DAYSAINTS

THE FIRST PRESIDENCY May 2002

President Thomas S. Monson President Gordon B. Hinckley President James E. Faust First Counselor Second Counselor THE QUORUM OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES

Boyd K. Packer L. Tom Perry David B. Haight Neal A. Maxwell Russell M. Nelson Dallin H. Oaks

M. Russell Ballard Joseph B. Wirthlin Richard G. Scott Robert D. Hales Jeffrey R. Holland Henry B. Eyring

THE PRESIDENCY OF THE SEVENTY

Earl C. Tingey D. Todd Christofferson David E. Sorensen Ben B. Banks Dennis B. Charles Didier Cecil O. Neuenschwander Samuelson Jr. THE FIRST QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY THE SECOND QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY (in alphabetical order) (in alphabetical order)

Angel Abrea Carlos H. AmadoNeil L. Andersen Merrill J. BatemanWilliam R. Bradford Monte J. BroughSheldon F. Child Richard D. Allred Athos M. Amorim E. Ray Bateman L. Edward BrownDouglas L. CallisterVal R. Christensen Darwin B. Christenson

L. Whitney Clayton Gary J. ColemanSpencer J. Condie Gene R. CookQuentin L. Cook Claudio R. M. CostaRobert K. Keith Crockett Adhemar DamianiDuane B. GerrardH. Aldridge GillespieRonald T. HalversonKeith K. Hilbig J. Kent Jolley Dellenbach

John B. Dickson Christoffel Golden Jr.alter WF. González John H. GrobergBruce C. Hafen Donald L. HallstromF. Melvin Hammond Gerald N. Lund Dale E. Miller Earl M. Monson Merrill C. Oaks Robert C. Oaks Robert F. Orton Stephen B. Oveson

Harold G. Hillam F. Burton HowardJay E. Jensen Marlin K. JensenKenneth Johnson W. Rolfe KerrYoshihiko Kikuchi Wayne S. Peterson Bruce D. Porter H. Bryan Richards Ned B. Roueché R. Conrad SchultzDennis E. SimmonsDonald L. Staheli

Cree-L Kofford John M. MadsenRichard J. Maynes Lynn A. MickelsenGlenn L. Pace Carl B. PrattRonald A. Rasband Robert R. Steuer David R. Stone H. Bruce Stucki Jerald L. Taylor D. Lee ToblerWilliam R. Walker Gordon T. Watts

Lynn G. Robbins Steven E. Snow Dieter F. UchtdorfFrancisco J. Viñas Lance B. WickmanW. Craig Zwick Stephen A. West Robert J. WhettenRichard H. Winkel Robert S. Wood H. Ross Workman THE PRESIDING BISHOPRIC

Richard C. Edgley H. David Burton Keith B. McMullin First Counselor Presiding Bishop Second Counselor The Salt Lake Temple is framed by a tree and a decorative lamppost in this view from the Church Office Building, just to the northeast.

58 workers, are available on this help SUNDAY MORNING SESSION line to advise bishops and stake pres- 7 April 2002 idents concerning their obligations in these circumstances. Those in other nations should call their re- spective Area Presidents. THE LIFELINE OF PRAYER Now the work of the Church is a President James E. Faust work of salvation. I want to empha- Second Counselor in the First Presidency size that. It is a work of saving souls. We desire to help both the victim and the offender. Our hearts reach out to Each of us has problems that we cannot solve and the victim, and we must act to assist him or her. Our hearts reach out to weaknesses that we cannot conquer without reaching the offender, but we cannot tolerate out through prayer to a higher source of strength. the sin of which he may be guilty. Where there has been offense, there is a penalty. The process of the civil law will work its way. And the ecclesiasti- cal process will work its way, often re- earth, prayer became the lifeline be- sulting in excommunication. This is tween mankind and God. Thus, in both a delicate and a serious matter. Adam’s generation, men began “to Nevertheless, we recognize, and call upon the name of the Lord.”1 must always recognize, that when Through all generations since that the penalty has been paid and the time, prayer has filled a very impor- demands of justice have been met, tant human need. Each of us has there will be a helpful and kindly problems that we cannot solve and hand reaching out to assist. There weaknesses that we cannot conquer may be continuing restrictions, but without reaching out through prayer there will also be kindness. to a higher source of strength. That Now brethren, I suppose that I source is the God of heaven to have sounded negative as I have whom we pray in the name of Jesus spoken to you this evening. I do not Christ.2 As we pray we should think wish to. But I do wish to raise a of our Father in Heaven as possess- warning voice to the priesthood of ing all knowledge, understanding, this Church throughout the world. love, and compassion. God has bestowed upon us a gift What is a prayer? The Savior gave most precious and wonderful. It car- his morning I bear witness us an example in the Lord’s Prayer ries with it the authority to govern the of the importance of prayer. when He prayed: “Our Father which Church, to administer in its affairs, to Access to our Creator through art in heaven, Hallowed be thy speak with authority in the name of Tour Savior is surely one of the great name. the Lord Jesus Christ, to act as His privileges and blessings of our lives. “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be dedicated servants, to bless the sick, to I have learned from countless per- done in earth, as it is in heaven. bless our families and many others. It sonal experiences that great is the “Give us this day our daily bread. serves as a guide by which to live our power of prayer. No earthly author- “And forgive us our debts, as we lives. In its fulness, its authority ity can separate us from direct access forgive our debtors. reaches beyond the veil of death into to our Creator. There can never be a “A nd lead us not into temptation, the eternities that lie ahead. mechanical or electronic failure but deliver us from evil: For thine is There is nothing else to compare when we pray. There is no limit on the kingdom, and the power, and the with it in all this world. Safeguard it, the number of times or how long we glory, for ever. Amen.”3 cherish it, love it, live worthy of it. can pray each day. There is no quota First, prayer is a humble acknowl- “Let your light so shine before of how many needs we wish to pray edgment that God is our Father and men, that they may see your good for in each prayer. We do not need to that the Lord Jesus Christ is our works, and glorify your Father which go through secretaries or make an Savior and Redeemer. Second, it is a is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16), is my hum- appointment to reach the throne of sincere confession of sin and trans- ble prayer as I leave my blessing grace. He is reachable at any time gression and a request for forgive- upon you and extend my love, in the and any place. ness. Third, it is recognition that we name of Jesus Christ, amen. When God placed man on the need help beyond our own ability.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 59 and us. However, in times of great I have mentioned before an expe- personal hurt or need, more may be rience I had in the military in World required than mere asking. The Lord War II. I hasten to say I was not a said, “You have supposed that I hero. But I did my duty. I endured would give it unto you, when you and survived. I was assigned to a took no thought save it was to ask British liberty ship sailing from San me.”11 Blessings sought through Francisco to Suez. I was on that ship prayer sometimes require work, ef- for 83 consecutive days except for fort, and diligence on our part. a brief stop in Auckland, New For example, at times fasting is Zealand. I was the only member of appropriate as a strong evidence of our faith on board. On Sundays I our sincerity. As Alma testified to the would go alone to the bow of the people of Zarahemla: “I have fasted ship with my little set of service- and prayed many days that I might men’s scriptures and songbook. know these things of myself. And Amid the howling of the wind, I now I do know of myself that they would read the scriptures, pray, and are true; for the Lord God hath sing all by myself. I did not try to made them manifest unto me by his bargain with the Lord, but I did pray Holy Spirit.”12 When we fast we fervently that if I could survive the humble our souls,13 which brings us war and go home to my wife and Fourth, it is an opportunity to ex- more in tune with God and His holy family, I would earnestly try to re- press thanksgiving and gratitude to purposes. main true to the sacred covenants I our Creator. It is important that we We are privileged to pray daily for had made at baptism, to the oath frequently say: “We thank Thee . . . , ” the small and great concerns in our and covenant of the priesthood, and “We acknowledge before Thee . . . ,” lives. Consider the words of Amulek, to my temple vows. “We are grateful unto Thee . . . ” who admonished us to pray in our As part of our tour of duty, our Fifth, it is a privilege to ask Deity for fields over our flocks; in our houses little cargo ship was ordered to tow specific blessings. over our households, morning, mid- a large, burned-out oil tanker into Many prayers are spoken while day, and evening; to pray against the Auckland, New Zealand. The tanker we are on our knees. The Savior power of our enemies and the devil; had no power and was wallowing knelt as He prayed to the Father in to cry unto Him over our crops; to helplessly in the ocean. Although we the Garden of Gethsemane.4 But pour out our souls in secret and in never saw them, we knew enemy silent prayers of the heart also reach the wilderness. When we are not submarines were lurking near us. to heaven. We sing, “Prayer is the crying directly unto God, we should While we were pulling that ship, we soul’s sincere desire, Uttered or un- let our hearts be drawn out in prayer were caught in a violent storm, which expressed.”5 Sincere prayers come unto Him continually.14 we later learned sank many vessels. from the heart. Indeed, sincerity re- Amulek’s counsel in our day Because of the load we were pulling, quires that we draw from the earnest might be the heartfelt prayer of a we did not have enough power to go feelings of our hearts when we pray wife: “Bless Jason and keep him safe into the giant waves head on, and rather than using vain repetitions or as he serves our country in this time our ship was thrown from side to side pretentious affectations such as of war.” The prayer of a mother: in the trough of the pounding seas. those condemned by the Savior in “Please bless dear Jane that she will It would creak and groan and roll the parable of the Pharisee and the make the right choices.” The prayer from side to side, almost capsizing publican.6 Our prayers then truly be- of a father: “Heavenly Father, bless on every roll. Of course I prayed, as I come the “song of the heart” and “a Johnny in his missionary labors, that imagine others did. In time the storm prayer,”7 not only reaching God but doors will be opened for him, and moved away from us. I am grateful touching the hearts of others as well. that he’ll find the honest in heart.” for the sustaining influence and com- Jeremiah counsels us to pray with The lisping, basic prayer of a child, fort my prayers gave me then and all our heart and soul.8 Enos re- “that I won’t be naughty today,” or since in other times of peril. counted how his soul had hungered “that everybody will have plenty to The Savior told us, “Pray in your and that he had prayed all the day eat,” or “that Mommy will get well families unto the Father, always in my long.9 Prayers vary in their intensity. soon.” These are sublime prayers name, that your wives and your chil- Even the Savior “prayed more that resound in the eternal mansions dren may be blessed.”16 In our day, the earnestly” in His hour of agony.10 above. God knows our needs better Church urges us to have family prayer Some are simple expressions of ap- than we can state them,15 but He every night and every morning. preciation and requests for a contin- wants us to approach Him in faith to I once heard of a Primary teacher uation of blessings on our loved ones ask for blessings, safety, and comfort. who asked a little boy if he said

60 his prayers every night. “Yes,” he replied. “And do you always say them in the morning, too?” the Primary teacher asked. “No,” the boy replied. “I ain’t scared in the daytime.”17 Fear of the dark should not be our only motivation to pray—morning or night. Family prayer is a powerful and sustaining influence. During the dark days of World War II, a 500- pound bomb fell outside the little home of Brother Patey, a young fa- ther in Liverpool, England, but the bomb did not go off. His wife had died, so he was rearing his five chil- dren alone. He gathered them to- gether at this very anxious time for family prayer. They “all prayed . . . earnestly and when they had fin- ished praying, the children said: ‘Daddy, we will be all right. We will be all right in our home tonight.’ “And so they went to bed, imag- ine, with that terrific bomb lying just outside the door half submerged in the ground. If it had gone off it would have destroyed probably forty or fifty houses and killed two or three hundred people. . . . “The next morning the . . . whole others rebelled against the Prophet which was to a considerable extent in neighborhood was removed for [at Kirtland], . . . I attended a meet- behalf of those who accused him of forty-eight hours and the bomb was ing . . . where ‘Joseph’ presided. having gone astray and fallen into finally taken away. . . . Entering the school-house a little sin, [was] that the Lord would for- “On the way back Brother Patey before [the] meeting opened, and give them and open their eyes that asked the foreman of the A.R.P. gazing upon the man of God, I per- they might see aright—that prayer, I Squad: ‘Well, what did you find?’ ceived sadness in his countenance say, to my humble mind, partook of “ ‘Mr. Patey, we got at the bomb and tears trickling down his cheeks. the learning and eloquence of outside of your door and found it . . . A few moments later a hymn was heaven. There was no ostentation, no ready to explode at any moment. sung and he opened the meeting by raising of the voice as by enthusiasm, There was nothing wrong with it. prayer. Instead of facing the audi- but a plain conversational tone, as a We are puzzled why it did not go ence, however, he turned his back man would address a present friend. off.’ ”18 Miraculous things happen and bowed upon his knees, facing It appeared to me as though, in case when families pray together. the wall. This, I suppose, was done the vail were taken away, I could see The Savior counseled that we to hide his sorrow and tears. the Lord standing facing His hum- should pray for those who “despite- “I had heard men and women blest of all servants I had ever seen. fully use” us.19 This principle is often pray—especially the former—from . . . It was the crowning . . . of all the overlooked in our prayers. The the most ignorant, both as to letters prayers I ever heard.”20 Prophet Joseph Smith understood it and intellect, to the most learned and As the hour of the Savior’s death clearly. His petitions were fervent, eloquent, but never until then had I and Resurrection drew near, He of- his motives pure, and the blessings heard a man address his Maker as fered His great Intercessory Prayer. of heaven regular. though He was present listening as a After commending His Apostles to Daniel Tyler, an associate of the kind father would listen to the sor- the Father and praying for them, He Prophet, recalled an important occa- rows of a dutiful child. Joseph was at then prayed for all those who would sion: “At the time William Smith and that time unlearned, but that prayer, believe on Him through their word,

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 61 and pleaded with the Father for all of us. He prayed that we could all be one as He is one with the Father and that the world would believe that He HE THER RODIGAL 21 T O P was sent by the Father. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland No more poignant prayer was ever Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles uttered than that given by the Savior in the Garden of Gethsemane. He withdrew from His Apostles, knelt, and prayed, “Father, if thou be willing, No one of us is less treasured or cherished of God remove this cup from me: neverthe- than another. I testify that He loves each of us— less not my will, but thine, be done.”22 An important element of all of our insecurities, anxieties, self-image, and all. prayers might well be to follow the pattern of that prayer in Gethsemane: “not my will, but thine, be done.” By this, then, we acknowledge our devo- servant in his father’s household. tion and submission to the overriding The tender image of this boy’s anx- purposes of the Lord in our lives. As ious, faithful father running to meet He said, “If ye abide in me, and my him and showering him with kisses words abide in you, ye shall ask what is one of the most moving and com- ye will, and it shall be done unto passionate scenes in all of holy writ. you.”23 What a glorious day it will be It tells every child of God, wayward for each of us when we pray with or otherwise, how much God wants confidence that “if we ask anything us back in the protection of His arms. according to his will, he heareth us.”24 But being caught up in this I sincerely hope that as we say our younger son’s story, we can miss, if daily prayers we remember to ask the we are not careful, the account of an Lord’s blessings to continue to abide elder son, for the opening line of the with our beloved leader, President Savior’s account reads, “A certain Gordon B. Hinckley. No one fully man had two sons”—and He might knows, not even his counselors, how have added, “both of whom were heavy his burdens are and how great lost and both of whom needed to his responsibility is. Of this I testify in come home.” the name of Jesus Christ, amen. mong the most memorable The younger son has returned, a NOTES parables the Savior ever told is robe has been placed on his shoul- 1. Gen. 4:26. the story of a foolish younger ders and a ring on his finger, when 2. See 2 Ne. 32:9; 3 Ne. 20:31. Abrother who went to his father, the older son comes on the scene. He 3. Matt. 6:9–13. 4. See Luke 22:41. asked for his portion of the estate, has been dutifully, loyally working in 5. Hymns, no. 145. and left home to squander his inheri- the field, and now he is returning. 6. See Luke 18:10–14. tance, the scripture says, in “riotous The language of parallel journeys 7. D&C 25:12. living.”1 His money and his friends home, though from very different lo- 8. See Jer. 29:13. 9. See Enos 1:4. disappeared sooner than he thought cations, is central to this story. 10. Luke 22:44. possible—they always do—and a As he approaches the house, he 11. D&C 9:7. day of terrible reckoning came there- hears the sounds of music and 12. Alma 5:46. 13. See Ps. 35:13. after—it always does. In the down- laughter. 14. See Alma 34:20–27. ward course of all this he became a “And he called one of the servants 15. See Matt. 6:8. keeper of pigs, one so hungry, so [note that he has servants], and asked 16. 3 Ne. 18:21. 17. Adapted from Tal D. Bonham, The stripped of sustenance and dignity what these things meant. Treasury of Clean Church Jokes, as quoted in Cal that he “would fain have filled his “And [the servant] said unto him, and Rose Samra, eds., Holy Humor (1997), 23. belly with the husks that the swine Thy brother is come; and thy father 18. Andre K. Anastasiou, in Conference Report, Oct. 1946, 26. did eat.” But even that consolation hath killed the fatted calf, because he 19. Matt. 5:44. was not available to him. hath received him safe and sound. 20. Juvenile Instructor, Feb. 1892, 127–28. Then the scripture says encourag- “And [the older brother] was an- 21. John 17:21. ingly, “He came to himself.” He de- gry, and would not go in: therefore 22. Luke 22:42. 23. John 15:7. termined to find his way home, came his father out, and intreated 24. 1 Jn. 5:14. hoping to be accepted at least as a him.”

62 You know the conversation they suddenly feels very unhappy simply then had. Surely, for this father, the because another has had some good pain over a wayward child who had fortune as well. run from home and wallowed with Who is it that whispers so subtly swine is now compounded with the in our ear that a gift given to another realization that this older, wiser somehow diminishes the blessings brother, the younger boy’s child- we have received? Who makes us hood hero as older brothers always feel that if God is smiling on another, are, is angry that his brother has then He surely must somehow be come home. frowning on us? You and I both No, I correct myself. This son is know who does this—it is the father not so much angry that the other has of all lies.3 It is Lucifer, our common come home as he is angry that his enemy, whose cry down through the parents are so happy about it. corridors of time is always and to ev- Feeling unappreciated and perhaps eryone, “Give me thine honor.”4 more than a little self-pity, this duti- It has been said that envy is the ful son—and he is wonderfully duti- one sin to which no one readily con- ful—forgets for a moment that he fesses, but just how widespread that has never had to know filth or de- tendency can be is suggested in the Spires of the Assembly Hall on Temple Square. spair, fear or self-loathing. He forgets old Danish proverb, “If envy were a for a moment that every calf on the fever, all the world would be ill.” neighbors. He doesn’t even compare ranch is already his and so are all the The parson in Chaucer’s Canterbury them with each other. His gestures of robes in the closet and every ring in Tales laments it because it is so far- compassion toward one do not re- the drawer. He forgets for a moment reaching—it can resent anything, in- quire a withdrawal or denial of love that his faithfulness has been and al- cluding any virtue and talent, and it for the other. He is divinely generous ways will be rewarded. can be offended by everything, in- to both of these sons. Toward both of No, he who has virtually every- cluding every goodness and joy.5 As his children he extends charity. I be- thing, and who has in his hardwork- others seem to grow larger in our lieve God is with us the way my pre- ing, wonderful way earned it, lacks sight, we think we must therefore be cious wife, Pat, is with my singing. the one thing that might make him smaller. So, unfortunately, we occa- She is a gifted musician, something the complete man of the Lord he sionally act that way. of a musical genius, but I couldn’t nearly is. He has yet to come to the How does this happen, especially capture a musical note with Velcro. compassion and mercy, the charita- when we wish so much that it would And yet I know she loves me in a ble breadth of vision to see that this is not? I think one of the reasons is that very special way when I try to sing. I not a rival returning. It is his brother. every day we see allurements of one know that because I can see it in her As his father pled with him to see, it kind or another that tell us what we eyes. They are the eyes of love. is one who was dead and now is have is not enough. Someone or One observer has written: “In a alive. It is one who was lost and now something is forever telling us we world that constantly compares peo- is found. need to be more handsome or more ple, ranking them as more or less in- Certainly this younger brother wealthy, more applauded or more telligent, more or less attractive, had been a prisoner—a prisoner of admired than we see ourselves as be- more or less successful, it is not easy sin, stupidity, and a pigsty. But the ing. We are told we haven’t collected to really believe in a [divine] love older brother lives in some confine- enough possessions or gone to that does not do the same. When I ment, too. He has, as yet, been un- enough fun places. We are bom- hear someone praised,” he says, “it is able to break out of the prison of barded with the message that on the hard not to think of myself as less himself. He is haunted by the green- world’s scale of things we have been praiseworthy; when I read about the eyed monster of jealousy.2 He feels weighed in the balance and found goodness and kindness of other peo- taken for granted by his father and wanting.6 Some days it is as if we ple, it is hard not to wonder whether disenfranchised by his brother, when have been locked in a cubicle of a I myself am as good and kind as neither is the case. He has fallen vic- great and spacious building where they; and when I see trophies, re- tim to a fictional affront. As such he the only thing on the TV is a never- wards, and prizes being handed out is like Tantalus of Greek mythol- ending soap opera entitled Vain to special people, I cannot avoid ask- ogy—he is up to his chin in water, Imaginations.7 ing myself why that didn’t happen but he remains thirsty nevertheless. But God does not work this way. to me.”8 If left unresisted, we can see One who has heretofore presumably The father in this story does not tan- how this inclination so embellished been very happy with his life and talize his children. He does not mer- by the world will ultimately bring a content with his good fortune cilessly measure them against their resentful, demeaning view of God

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 63 of these is charity.”11 He reminds us we are all of the body of Christ, and that all members, whether comely or feeble, are adored, essential, and im- portant. We feel the depth of his plea that there be “no schism in the body, but that the members . . . have the same care one for another. And [when] one member suffer[s], all the members suffer with it; or [when] one member [is] honoured, all the mem- bers rejoice.”12 That incomparable counsel helps us remember that the word generosity has the same deriva- tion as the word genealogy, both com- ing from the Latin genus, meaning of the same birth or kind, the same fam- ily or gender.13 We will always find it easier to be generous when we re- member that this person being fa- vored is truly one of our own. Brothers and sisters, I testify that no one of us is less treasured or cher- ished of God than another. I testify that He loves each of us—insecuri- and a terribly destructive view of are replete with the promise that ties, anxieties, self-image, and all. He ourselves. Most “thou shalt not” God’s grace is sufficient.9 This is one doesn’t measure our talents or our commandments are meant to keep arena where no one has to claw or looks; He doesn’t measure our pro- us from hurting others, but I am con- compete. Nephi declares that the fessions or our possessions. He vinced the commandment not to Lord “loveth the [whole] world” and cheers on every runner, calling out covet is meant to keep us from hurt- has given salvation freely. that the race is against sin, not ing ourselves. “Hath [He] commanded any that against each other. I know that if we How can we overcome such a ten- they should not partake of his good- will be faithful, there is a perfectly dency so common in almost every- ness?” Nephi asks. No! “All . . . are tailored robe of righteousness ready one? For one thing, we can do as privileged the one like unto the and waiting for everyone,14 “robes . . . these two sons did and start making other, and none are forbidden [at His made . . . white in the blood of the our way back to the Father. We hand].” Lamb.” 15 May we encourage each should do so with as much haste and “Come unto me all ye ends of the other in our effort to win that prize is humility as we can summon. Along earth,” He pleads, and buy milk my earnest prayer, in the name of the way we can count our many without money and honey without Jesus Christ, amen. 10 blessings and we can applaud the ac- price. All are privileged, the one like NOTES complishments of others. Best of all, unto the other. Walk peacefully. Walk 1. See Luke 15:11–32. we can serve others, the finest exer- confidently. Walk without fear and 2. See William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice, act 3, scene 2, line 110. cise for the heart ever prescribed. But without envy. Be reassured of 3. See 2 Ne. 2:18. finally these will not be enough. Heavenly Father’s abundance to you 4. Moses 4:1. When we are lost, we can “come to always. 5. See Geoffrey Chaucer, The Canterbury Tales, ed. Walter W. Skeat (1929), 534–35. ourselves,” but we may not always As we do this, we can help others, 6. See Dan. 5:27 (double entendre doubly be able to “find ourselves,” and, calling down blessings on them even intended). worlds without end, we cannot as they make supplication for us. We 7. See 1 Ne. 12:18. “save ourselves.” Only the Father can cheer every talent and ability, 8. Henri J. M. Nouwen, The Return of the Prodigal Son (1992), 103. and His Only Begotten Son can do wherever it is bestowed, thus mak- 9. See Ether 12:26; Moro. 10:32; D&C 17:8. that. Salvation is in Them only. So ing life here more nearly what it will 10. See 2 Ne. 26:24–28; emphasis added. we pray that They will help us, that be like in heaven. 11. 1 Cor. 13:13. 12. See 1 Cor. 12:25–26. They will “come out” to meet and It will help us always to remem- 13. I am indebted to Henri Nouwen for embrace us and bring us into the ber Paul’s succinct prioritizing of pointing out this etymological link. feast They have prepared. virtues—“Now abideth faith, hope, 14. See Isa. 61:10; 2 Ne. 4:33; 9:14. 15. Rev. 7:14. They will do this! The scriptures charity, these three; but the greatest

64 repentance and forgiveness. Out of death He would bring the resurrec- tion of lives. And with that explana- FOR THY GOOD tion and most generous offer, each Bishop Richard C. Edgley and every one of us concluded, “I First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric can do that. That is a risk worth tak- ing.” And so we chose. The unfathomable extent of Christ’s mercy and His Atonement Out of our adversity we might seek our greatest are explained by Amulek in the 34th triumphs, and the day may well come that from chapter of Alma in the Book of Mormon. Amulek explains that there our challenges we will understand the familiar must be a “great and last sacrifice” words “for thy good.” (Alma 34:10). And then he clarifies that this cannot be a sacrifice of beast or fowl similar to those already known to man. It had to be a sacri- fice of a God—Jesus Christ. For this darkest moments while confined to must be an infinite and eternal sacri- the dungeon called Liberty Jail, cried fice. And so the sacrifice was made, out, “O God, where art thou?” (D&C and by faith we find ourselves trav- 121:1), the Lord comforted him with eling this journey we call mortality. these words: “Know thou, my son, As a result, our hearts are saddened that all these things shall give thee ex- with the unexplained loss of a child, perience, and shall be for thy good” or the supposed untimely illness or (D&C 122:7). How difficult it is and disability of a loved one. Single par- painfully foreign it may seem to find ents struggle to provide financial se- the good out of our personal tragedy curity and the reassuring influences and suffering. How inconsistent the of the gospel in their home. And words “for thy good” may seem. maybe most difficult of all is the pain However, an understanding of experienced of helplessly watching Christ’s plan of redemption helps the suffering of a loved one because put it all into perspective. In our pre- of sin and transgression. existent state our Father in Heaven There are few of us, if any, who presented His plan for mortality, don’t walk the refiner’s fire of adver- which Alma described as the “plan sity and despair, sometimes known ome time ago I received an of happiness” (Alma 42:8). I believe to others but for many quietly hid- anonymous letter from a heart- we all understood that by coming to den and privately endured. Most of broken mother expressing her earth, we would be exposed to all of the heartache, pain, and suffering we Ssuffering and pain for a son who had the experiences of earth life, includ- would not choose today. But we did committed grievous transgressions, ing the not-so-pleasant trials of pain, choose. We chose when we could see badly hurting innocent loved ones. suffering, hopelessness, sin, and the complete plan. We chose when Since her anonymous letter to me, death. There would be opposition we had a clear vision of the Savior’s and feeling her despair, I have had a and adversity. And if that was all we rescue of us. And if our faith and un- great desire to express my love to her knew about the plan, I doubt if any derstanding were as clear today as it and others in similar circumstances of us would have embraced it, rejoic- was when we first made that choice, I in an attempt to give some comfort ing, “That’s what I have always believe we would choose again. and hope to those who are anony- wanted—pain, suffering, hopeless- Therefore, perhaps the challenge mously and privately carrying heavy ness, sin, and death.” But it all came is to have the kind of faith during the burdens, often known only to them into focus, and it became acceptable, hard times that we exercised when and a loving Father in Heaven. even desirable, when an Elder we first chose. The kind of faith that I know, Sister Anonymous, that Brother stepped forward and offered turns questioning and even anger what I say will only be a reminder, that He would go down and make it into acknowledging the power, bless- but still another testimony to what all right. Out of pain and suffering ings, and hope that can come only you already know. He would bring peace. Out of hope- from Him who is the source of all When the Prophet Joseph Smith, lessness He would bring hope. Out power, blessings, and hope. The kind suffering what had to be one of his of transgression He would bring of faith that brings the knowledge

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 65 I believe it explains exactly what God meant. Infinite: “Having no boundaries or limits.” And the defi- nition of eternal: “Being without beginning or end” (The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 4th ed. [2000], “infinite,” “eternal,” 898, 611). Do you see, Sister Anonymous? That means the Atonement was for you in your suffering. It is personal, as He is intimately acquainted with your trials and sorrows, for He has already suffered them. It means there can always be a new beginning for every one of us—even a son who has committed serious transgressions. It means as we move ahead through life’s trials and tribulations, shackled with feelings of hopelessness, we fo- cus not on where we have been but where we are going. We focus not on what has been but what can be. Admittedly, most of us would rather learn the hard lessons of life in the secure comfort of a Sunday School class or in the radiant warmth of a fireplace during a family home evening. But, may I point out, it was from the cold, dark corners of Liberty Jail that came some of the most beau- tiful, comforting scriptures given to Visitors stream through the north gate of Temple Square. man, concluding with the words, “All these things shall give thee experi- and assurances that all that we expe- “works of God” were made manifest ence, and shall be for thy good.” rience is part of the gospel plan and in the healing of a blind man, so also Likewise, out of our adversity we that for the righteous, all that appears the way we face our personal trials might seek our greatest triumphs, wrong will eventually be made right. may manifest the “works of God.” and the day may well come that from The peace and understanding to en- From our sorrow we might seek our challenges we will understand dure with dignity and clarity of pur- out the sweetness and the good that the familiar words “for thy good.” pose can be the sweet reward. This is often associated with and peculiar From the scriptures we learn kind of faith can help us to see the to our challenge. We can seek out that when the Savior went into the good, even when life’s path seems to those memorable moments that are Garden of Gethsemane to pay the be layered only with thorns, thistles, frequently hidden by the pain and ultimate price for our transgressions and craggy rocks. agony. We can find peace in extend- and our suffering, He bled from ev- When Jesus and His disciples ing ourselves to others, using our ery pore (see D&C 19). I believe, passed a man who was blind since own experiences to provide hope Sister Anonymous, that in His excru- his birth, His disciples queried, and comfort. And we can always re- ciating pain, He bled a drop of blood “Master, who did sin, this man, or member with great solemnity and for you. He bled a drop for your son, his parents, that he was born blind? gratitude Him who suffered most to and He bled a drop for me. “Jesus answered, Neither hath make it all right for us. And by so do- I believe in prayer. I believe in this man sinned, nor his parents: but ing we can be strengthened to bear faith. I believe in repentance. I be- that the works of God should be our burdens in peace. And then, the lieve in the power of the Redemp- made manifest in him” (John 9:2–3). “works of God” might be manifest. tion. And yes, Sister Anonymous, I I do not believe our Father in In speaking of Christ’s Atone- believe in you. And so does a loving Heaven causes the tragedies and ment, I like the dictionary’s defini- Father in Heaven. In the name of heartbreak in our lives. But as the tion of infinite and eternal because Jesus Christ, amen.

66 of algebra or chemistry. Maybe you thought you had come to a foreign shore when you joined the Church, THE LANGUAGE OF LOVE even if you joined in your native Gayle M. Clegg country. Put yourself in the place Second Counselor in the Primary General Presidency of a new convert. Words like calling, Presiding Bishopric, even General Authority require a glossary entry. What about our missionaries who Every child needs regular reports affirming, have understood and responded to “You are known. You are valued. You have the promptings of the Holy Spirit that the Church is true, but then potential. You are good.” have the challenge of learning both the gospel and a foreign language at the same time? I marvel to think of their courage. One day, some children were par- Our lives are filled with many in- ticularly unkind to her. A few even stances of the frustration of learning threw rocks and bullied her, laugh- a foreign tongue. Nevertheless, there ing rudely at recess. She was scared is one language that is universal. But and hurt and decided she couldn’t “dear mother, all flowers remind me go back into class. Sitting alone while of you” spoke to the heart of a young the playground emptied, she re- girl. A Primary song and a wild- membered what we had taught her flower were the familiar language of about loneliness. She remembered an answered prayer. that Heavenly Father is always close After Jesus had been teaching for to His children and she could speak some time at the temple in Bountiful, to Him at any time, not just before He perceived the people might not bedtime. He would understand the have understood all the words He language of her heart. In a corner of spoke. He asked them to go to their the playground, she bowed her head homes and ponder and pray with and said a prayer. She didn’t know their families and prepare for Him to what to pray for, so she asked that come the next day. her father and mother could be with But when “he cast his eyes round hen I was a young mother, her to protect her. While returning to about again on the multitude, [he] my husband and I found the classroom, a Primary song came beheld they were in tears, and did ourselves taking our five into her mind. look steadfastly upon him as if they childrenW under the age of eight to would ask him to tarry a little longer live in South America. Although I often go walking in meadows of clover, with them. . . . none of us spoke the language, my And I gather armfuls of blossoms of blue. “He took their little children, one I gather the blossoms the whole meadow six-year-old had the greatest diffi- by one, and blessed them. . . . over; culty learning a new language. We “And he spake unto the multitude, Dear mother, all flowers remind me of you. decided to put her in preschool with (“I Often Go Walking,” Children’s and said unto them: Behold your lit- four-year-olds, even though she Songbook, 202) tle ones. should be starting first grade. Our “And as they looked . . . they saw hope was that interaction with As she opened her eyes, she no- angels descending out of heaven as younger children would be less in- ticed one little flower growing be- it were in the midst of fire; and they timidating to her and might facilitate tween the cracks of the cement. She came down and encircled those little her ability to communicate in picked it up and put it into her ones about, . . . and the angels did Portuguese. pocket. Her troubles with the other minister unto them” (3 Ne. 17:5, 21, But the reality for my daughter children did not disappear, but she 23–24). was that she was as foreign to the walked back into the school feeling To “encircle” with the fire of our children as they were to her. Each day that her parents were with her. testimony is a language all of us was a struggle, and I anguished for Each of us, like my six-year-old must learn to speak and understand. her every morning as I walked her to daughter, have felt lost or alienated The first lesson taught to every school and then waited for her to re- in a foreign land. Perhaps your for- child in the world attending Primary turn, dejected, at the end of the day. eign land was learning the language is “I Am a Child of God.” Children as

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 67 in another state. I hoped he had my report card saying that he was a good boy in his pocket, wherever he was. Someday we will all be given final report cards. Maybe we will be graded on how well we have re- ported each other’s goodness. Every child needs regular reports affirm- ing, “You are known. You are valued. You have potential. You are good.” I love the stories of pioneer chil- dren. We always hear about their parents walking to the Salt Lake Valley. But in the words of a Primary song: Whenever I think about pioneers, I think of brave women and men. I like to remember that children came, too; I would like to have been a child then. (“Whenever I Think about Pioneers,” Children’s Songbook, 222) Susan Madsen tells the story of Agnes Caldwell in the Willie Handcart Company. They were caught in heavy storms and suffered terrible hunger and cold. Relief wag- ons came to deliver food and blan- kets, but there were not enough wagons to carry all the people. Even after rescue, the majority of the peo- young as 18 months might be point- the records, I could see Brian had the ple still had to trudge on many more ing to themselves acting out this fin- class in an upheaval. I suggested to miles to the safety of the valley. ger play: my grateful coteacher that I would Little nine-year-old Agnes was take Brian with me. With some first- too weary to walk any farther. The Heavenly Father knows me grade primers filled with pictures, driver took notice of her determina- And what I like to do. we headed to the library, talking a tion to keep up with the wagon and He knows my name and where I live. little football on the way. asked if she would like a ride. She I know He loves me, too. We settled ourselves at a table tells in her own words what hap- (“Heavenly Father Knows Me,” in Primary 1: I Am a Child of God [1994], 2) where I was marking report cards. I pened next: asked him if he had ever had a re- “A t this he reached over, taking When I was teaching sixth grade a port card. my hand, clucking to his horses to number of years ago, a 14-year-old He shook his head and said, “No.” make me run, with legs that . . . boy dressed in gang attire was I asked if he would like a report card. could run no farther. On we went, to marched into my classroom. He was He looked directly at me. “Only if what to me seemed miles. What two years older and four years larger it said I was a good boy.” went through my head at that time than the other 30 students. Quickly I I made out a special card for him, was that he was the meanest man discovered Brian did not read, had emphasizing his strengths. I wrote that ever lived or that I had ever not attended school with any regu- his full name on it and his ability to heard of. . . . Just at what seemed the larity, and had lived with a variety of include everyone and make people breaking point, he stopped [and guardians in a number of cities. laugh. I specifically mentioned his pulled me into the wagon]. Taking a Report card time was coming up, love of sports. It was not a traditional blanket, he wrapped me up . . . and I came to school on my day off report card but seemed to please warm and comfortable. Here I had to finish recording the children’s him. Not too long after that, Brian time to change my mind, as I surely work and mark the report cards. As I disappeared from our school, and did, knowing full well by doing this entered the classroom to gather up the last I heard of him, he was living he saved me from freezing when

68 taken into the wagon” (in I Walked to Zion [1994], 59). The driver of that relief wagon made the little girl run as far and as OUT OF DARKNESS INTO fast as she could to push blood back into her frozen feet and legs. He saved her legs, possibly her life, by letting her help herself. HIS MARVELOUS LIGHT Our children today have journeys Elder Robert D. Hales as terrible and taxing as the west- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ward migration. They are faced with every calamity along the trail. We need to build their backs to bear The emblems of the Savior’s Atonement remind us their burdens and legs for dancing that we need not stumble in darkness. We can have under starry skies. Sometimes we must run to keep up with our chil- His light with us always. dren’s faith. Another time in 3 Nephi when Christ was blessing the disciples, “his countenance did smile upon them, Paralympic Games, we have seen a and the light of his countenance did partial fulfillment of many prophe- shine upon them” (3 Ne. 19:25). cies. The nations of the earth and A smiling countenance says you many of their leaders have come. are good. Children are trying to be They have seen us serving alongside like Jesus. They want to be like some- our friends in this community and one who smiles. They want to be our neighbors of other faiths. They with someone who responds to have seen the light in our eyes and them joyfully. felt the clasp of our hands. “The President Hinckley has said: mountain of the house of the Lord,”3 “Children need sunlight. They need with its brightly lit spires, has been happiness. They need love and nur- witnessed by 3.5 billion people ture” (“Save the Children,” Ensign, around the world. The nations have Nov. 1994, 54). heard the glorious sound of this This should be the language of Ta bernacle Choir. Hundreds of thou- gospel instruction to our children. sands have attended a live produc- Whatever your mother tongue, learn tion in this auditorium entitled The to teach and speak in the language Light of the World: A Celebration of of heartfelt prayers and joyful testi- saiah, a great prophet of the Old Life—Spirit of Man, Glory of God, mony so that angels, earthly and Testament, prophesied, “And it which included a declaration of our heavenly, can encircle and minister shall come to pass in the last days, belief in Jesus Christ. I humbly ex- to us. We need gospel mentors who thatI the mountain of the Lord’s press gratitude that by these and speak the language of praise and house shall be established in the top many other means, The Church of friendship. We need to give regular of the mountains, . . . and all nations Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints con- spiritual report cards that affirm our shall flow unto it.”1 Referring to the tinues to be brought “forth out of ob- goodness in each other’s eyes. It is a citizens of those nations, President scurity and out of darkness.”4 blessing to allow children to run as John Taylor said, “They will come, Throughout the Olympics there far as they can under their own saying, we do not know anything of have been many expressions of light, power, to build strength for their the principles of your religion, but such as the Olympic flame; the child own testimonies, and we should we perceive that you are an honest of light; and the theme, “Light the smile upon them and wrap them in community; you administer justice Fire Within.”5 Perhaps the most the blanket of our affection through- and righteousness.”2 memorable light was found in the out the great journey in the univer- eyes of the competitors themselves. sal language of love. BROUGHT FORTH But what moved us most was not the I give thanks for the great blessing “OUT OF DARKNESS” competition or the spectacle. It was to “behold [our] little ones.” I like to the deeper truth these things sym- remember that children come, too, in As Salt Lake City has hosted bolized—the source of the light the name of Jesus Christ, amen. the 2002 Winter Olympic and within each of us.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 69 law that is also a spiritual law: light and darkness cannot occupy the same space at the same time. Light dispels darkness. When light is present, darkness is van- quished and must depart. More im- portantly, darkness cannot conquer light unless the light is diminished or departs. When the spiritual light of the Holy Ghost is present, the dark- ness of Satan departs. Beloved young men and young women of the Church, we are en- gaged in a battle between the forces of light and darkness. If it were not for the Light of Jesus Christ and His gospel, we would be doomed to the destruction of darkness. But the Savior said, “I am come a light into the world.”13 “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”14 The Lord is our light and, liter- ally, our salvation.15 Like the sacred fire that encircled the children in 3 Nephi,16 His light will form a pro- This morning I speak to those priesthood, and it is received by tective shield between you and the who asked: “What was that light I those who have followed the princi- darkness of the adversary as you live saw and felt? Where did it come ples of faith and repentance and worthy of it. You need that light. We from? How can I have it for myself have received the ordinance of bap- need that light. Carefully study the and my loved ones always?” tism by immersion for the remission scriptures and For the Strength of of sins. Youth and listen to the teachings of THE LIGHT OF CHRIST The Holy Ghost is the third mem- your parents and leaders. Then, by AND THE GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST ber of the Godhead, a personage of obedience to wise counsel, learn to spirit.10 He is the Comforter, the claim the protective light of the Each of us brings a light to the Spirit of God, the Holy Spirit of gospel as your own. earth, the Light of Christ. “I am the Promise. He testifies of Jesus Christ, You may wonder, “How can I do true light that lighteth every man His work, and the work of His ser- that?” There is only one way: you that cometh into the world,”6 the vants upon the earth. He acts as a must learn to generate that light Savior said. cleansing agent to purify and sanc- each day by believing on Jesus Christ “The light which is in all things, tify us from sin.11 He comforts us and following His commandments. which giveth life to all things.”7 and brings peace to our soul. The This light which “inviteth and en- right to His constant companionship GENERATING THE LIGHT ticeth to do good continually”8 is is among the greatest gifts we can re- “given to every man, that he may ceive in mortality, for by the light of This past winter I had the oppor- know good from evil.”9 His promptings and His cleansing tunity to learn more about my lungs. By using the Light of Christ to power, we can be led back into the I became very aware that we cannot discern and choose what is right, we presence of God.12 store oxygen. We cannot save the air can be led to an even greater light: we need to breathe, no matter how the gift of the Holy Ghost. I testify DARKNESS AND LIGHT hard we try. Moment by moment, that through the Restoration of the breath by breath, our lives are gospel and the holy priesthood of As children, we learned how to granted to us and are renewed. So it God, disciples of Jesus Christ in these keep darkness away by turning on a is with spiritual light. It must be re- latter days have the power to give light. Sometimes, when our parents newed in us on a regular basis. We the gift of the Holy Ghost. It is be- went away for the evening, we must generate it day by day, thought stowed by the laying on of hands by would turn on every light in the by thought, and with daily righteous those who have the authority of the house! We understood the physical action if we are to keep the darkness

70 of the adversary away. of the adversary will surely come lighthouse whose light has failed! When I was a boy, I used to ride my in. “That wicked one cometh and We who have the gift of the Holy bicycle home from basketball practice taketh away light and truth, through Ghost must be true to its promptings at night. I would connect a small pear- disobedience.”22 so we can be a light to others. shaped generator to my bicycle tire. In the scriptures we read that some “Let your light so shine before Then as I pedaled, the tire would turn individuals “grope in the dark with- men,” said the Lord, “that they may a tiny rotor, which produced electricity out light” and “stagger like a drunken see your good works, and glorify and emitted a single, welcome beam man.”23 Stumbling along, we may be- your Father which is in heaven.”28 of light. It was a simple but effective come accustomed to the dimness of We never know who may be de- mechanism. But I had to pedal to our surroundings and forget how glo- pending on us. And, as the Savior make it work! I learned quickly that if I rious it is to walk in the light. said, we “know not but what they stopped pedaling my bicycle, the light will return and repent, and come would go out. I also learned that when THE PATH TO THE LIGHT unto me with full purpose of heart, I was “anxiously engaged”17 in pedal- and I shall heal them; and ye shall be ing, the light would become brighter There is a way out of the “mists of the means of bringing salvation unto and the darkness in front of me would darkness”24 and onto the path that them.”29 be dispelled. leads to happiness in this life and The generation of spiritual light eternal life in the world to come. The A SPECIAL WITNESS OF HIS LIGHT comes from daily spiritual pedaling. Lord told Isaiah, “I will bring the It comes from praying, studying the blind by a way that they knew not; I Now, my brothers and sisters, in scriptures, fasting, and serving— will lead them in paths that they this, the last great conflict between from living the gospel and obeying have not known: I will make dark- light and darkness, I am grateful for the commandments. “He that keep- ness light before them.”25 the opportunity to “endure hardness, eth his commandments receiveth The prophet Nephi outlined the as a [disciple] of Jesus Christ.”30 With truth and light,”18 said the Lord, path: “Wherefore, my beloved Paul, I declare, “The night is far spent, “and he that receiveth light, and brethren, I know that if ye shall fol- the day is at hand: let us therefore continueth in God, receiveth more low the Son, with full purpose of cast off the works of darkness, and let light; and that light groweth heart, acting no hypocrisy and no us put on the armour of light.”31 I brighter and brighter until the per- deception before God, but with real bear my special witness that Jesus fect day.”19 My brothers and sisters, intent, repenting of your sins, wit- Christ “is the light and the life of the that perfect day will be when we nessing unto the Father that ye are world; yea, [the] light that is endless, will stand in the presence of God the willing to take upon you the name of that can never be darkened.”32 Father and Jesus Christ. Christ, by baptism . . . behold, then He is the Light of Bethlehem, Sometimes people ask, “Why do I shall ye receive the Holy Ghost; yea, born of Mary, His mortal mother, have to go to sacrament meeting?” or then cometh the baptism of fire and and His Father, Almighty God. “Why do I have to live the Word of of the Holy Ghost.”26 He is the Light who was baptized Wisdom, pay tithing? Why can’t I The covenant we make at baptism by immersion, by John the Baptist, have one foot in Babylon?” May I tell and renew as we partake of the upon whom the Holy Ghost was you why? Because spiritual pedaling sacrament—to take upon ourselves manifest in the Spirit like a dove takes both feet! Unless you are fully the name of Jesus Christ, always re- descending. engaged in living the gospel—living member Him, and keep His com- He is the Light in whom His it with all of your “heart, might, mandments—includes the promise Father was well pleased. mind and strength”20—you cannot that we will always have His Spirit, He is the Light at the head of generate enough spiritual light to that we will always have that light to the ancient Church, organized with push back the darkness. be with us.27 The emblems of the Twelve Apostles, prophets, and And in this world, the darkness is Savior’s Atonement remind us that seventies. never far away. In fact, it is always we need not stumble in darkness. We He is the Light of the Atone- just around the corner, waiting for can have His light with us always. ment fulfilled in the Garden of an opportunity to come in. “If thou Gethsemane and on Golgotha, who doest not well,” the Lord said, “LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE” took upon Himself the sins of the “sin lieth at the door.”21 world, that all mankind may obtain It is as predictable as any physical Growing up on Long Island, eternal salvation. law: if we let the light of the Spirit in New York, I understood how He is the Light of the empty tomb, flicker or fade by failing to keep the vital light was to those traveling the resurrected Lord with a glorified commandments or by not partaking in the darkness on the open sea. body of flesh and bone, who broke of the sacrament or praying or How dangerous is a fallen light- the bands of death and gained an ev- studying the scriptures, the darkness house! How devastating is a erlasting victory over the grave.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 71 He is the Light that ascended into heaven before the eyes of His disci- ples, with a promise that in like man- ner He would come again. WE WALK BY FAITH He is the Light that appeared President Gordon B. Hinckley with His Father and restored, through the Prophet Joseph Smith, the same Church He established dur- ing His ministry on earth. We reach toward the unknown, but faith lights He is the Light that leads and the way. If we will cultivate that faith, guides this Church today through revelation to a prophet, his coun- we shall never walk in darkness. selors, and the Twelve Apostles. He is my Light, my Redeemer, my Savior—and yours. I know that God lives. I know that investigator of the Church hears a lit- He hath called us “out of darkness tle. He may read a little. He does not, into his marvellous light.”33 I pray he cannot, comprehend the wonder that the light of His restored gospel of it all. But if he is earnest in his will continue to spread throughout search, if he is willing to get on his the world so that all may have the knees and pray about it, the Spirit opportunity to hear and choose, and touches his heart, perhaps ever so that His Church will “come forth out lightly. It points him in the right di- of the wilderness of darkness, and rection. He sees a little of what he shine forth . . . fair as the moon, clear has never seen before. And with as the sun,” so that His “glory may faith, whether it be recognized or fill the earth.”34 not, he takes a few guarded steps. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. Then another, brighter vista opens before him. NOTES Long ago I worked for one of our 1. Isa. 2:2. railroads whose tracks threaded the 2. John Taylor, Deseret News: Semi-Weekly, passes through these western moun- 27 Jan. 1880, 1. 3. Micah 4:1. tains. I frequently rode the trains. It 4. D&C 1:30. rom where we speak, it is a was in the days when there were TM 5. Salt Lake Olympic Committee. beautiful April Sabbath morn- steam locomotives. Those great mon- 6. D&C 93:2. 7. D&C 88:12–13. ing. The tulips are well out of sters of the rails were huge and fast 8. Moro. 7:13. theF ground and will soon be bursting and dangerous. I often wondered 9. Moro. 7:16. into flowering beauty. In the winter how the engineer dared the long 10. See A of F 1:1; D&C 130:22. 11. See Bible Dictionary, “Holy Ghost,” 704. of our doubt there came the hope of journey through the night. Then I 12. See John 14:16–18, 26–27. spring. We knew it would come. came to realize that it was not one 13. John 12:46. Such was our faith, based on the ex- long journey, but rather a constant 14. John 8:12. periences of earlier years. continuation of a short journey. The 15. See Ps. 27:1. 16. See 3 Ne. 17:24. And so it is with matters of the engine had a powerful headlight 17. D&C 58:27. spirit and soul. As each man or that made bright the way for a dis- 18. D&C 93:28. woman walks the way of life there tance of 400 or 500 yards. The engi- 19. D&C 50:24. 20. D&C 4:2. come dark seasons of doubt, of dis- neer saw only that distance, and that 21. Gen. 4:7. couragement, of disillusionment. In was enough, because it was con- 22. D&C 93:39. such circumstances, a few see ahead stantly before him all through the 23. Job 12:25. 24. 1 Ne. 12:17. by the light of faith, but many stum- night into the dawn of the new day. 25. Isa. 42:16. ble along in the darkness and even The Lord has spoken of this pro- 26. 2 Ne. 31:13. become lost. cess. He said: “That which doth not 27. See D&C 20:37, 77, 79. 28. Matt. 5:15–16. My call to you this morning is a edify is not of God, and is darkness. 29. 3 Ne. 18:32. call to faith, that faith which is “the “That which is of God is light; 30. 2 Tim. 2:3. substance of things hoped for, the and he that receiveth light, and 31. Rom. 13:12. evidence of things not seen” (Heb. continueth in God, receiveth more 32. Mosiah 16:9. 33. 1 Pet. 2:9. 11:1), as Paul described it. light; and that light groweth brighter 34. D&C 109:73–74. In the process of conversion, the and brighter until the perfect

72 day” (D&C 50:23–24). men played tennis with him, and he And so it is with our eternal jour- and his family were invited to their ney. We take one step at a time. In homes for dinner. doing so we reach toward the un- He was baptized, and that was a known, but faith lights the way. If giant step of faith. The branch presi- we will cultivate that faith, we shall dent asked him to be a Scoutmaster never walk in darkness. to four boys. That led to other re- Let me tell you of a man I know. I sponsibilities, and the light of faith will not mention his name lest he strengthened in his life with each feel embarrassed. His wife felt there new opportunity and experience. was something missing in their lives. That has continued. Today he She spoke with a relative one day stands as a capable and loved stake who was a member of the Church. president, a leader of great wisdom The relative suggested that she call and understanding, and above all, a the missionaries. She did so. But the man of great faith. husband was rude to them and told The challenge which faces every them not to come again. member of this Church is to take the Months passed. One day another next step, to accept that responsi- missionary, finding the record of this bility to which he is called, even visit, decided that he and his com- though he does not feel equal to it, panion would try again. He was a and to do so in faith with the full ex- tall elder from California who carried pectation that the Lord will light the a big smile on his face. way before him. They knocked on the door; the Let me give you a story of a man answered. Could they come in woman in São Paulo, Brazil. She for a few minutes? they asked. He worked while going to school to pro- Saturday. It was then that I remem- consented. vide for her family. I use her own bered that when I was baptized I The missionary said, in effect, “I words in telling this story. She says: had agreed to live the law of tithing. wonder if you know how to pray.” “The university in which I studied I had taken upon myself an obliga- The man answered that he knew the had a regulation that prohibited the tion, not with the missionaries, but Lord’s Prayer. The missionary said, students that were in debt from tak- with my Heavenly Father. At that “That is good, but let me tell you ing tests. For this reason, when I moment, the anguish started to dis- how to give a personal prayer.” He received my salary I would first appear, giving place to a pleasant went on to explain that we get on separate the money for tithing and sensation of tranquility and our knees in an attitude of humility offerings, and the remainder was al- determination. . . . before the God of heaven. The man lotted for the payment of the school “That night when I prayed, I did so. The missionary then went on and other expenses. asked the Lord to forgive me for my to say, “We address God as our “I remember a time when I . . . indecision. On Sunday, before the Father in Heaven. We then thank faced serious financial difficulties. It beginning of sacrament meeting, I Him for His blessings, such as our was a Thursday when I received my contacted the bishop, and with great health, our friends, our food. We salary. When I figured the monthly pleasure I paid my tithing and offer- then ask for His blessings. We ex- budget, I noticed that there wouldn’t ings. That was a special day. I felt press our innermost hopes and de- be enough to pay [both] my tithing happy and peaceful within myself sires. We ask Him to bless those in and my university. I would have and with Heavenly Father. need. We do it all in the name of His to choose between them. The bi- “The next day I was in my office; Beloved Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, monthly tests would start the follow- I tried to find a way to be able to concluding with ‘amen.’ ” ing week, and if I didn’t take them I take the tests that would begin on It was a pleasant experience for could lose the school year. I felt great Wednesday. The more I thought, the the man. He had gleaned a little light agony. . . . My heart ached. I had a further I felt from a solution. At that and understanding, a touch of faith. painful decision before me, and I time I worked in an attorney’s office, He was ready to try another step. didn’t know what to decide. I pon- and my employer was the most strict Line upon line, the missionaries dered between the two choices: to and austere person I had ever met. patiently taught him. He responded pay tithing or to risk the possibility “The working period was ending as his faith grew into a dim light of of not obtaining the necessary cred- when my employer approached and understanding. Friends from his its to be approved in school. gave the last orders of the day. When branch gathered around to reassure “This feeling consumed my soul he had done so, with his briefcase in him and answer his questions. The and remained with me up to his hand he bid farewell. . . .

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 73 journey, one step at a time. Great is the promise of the Lord to the faithful everywhere. He has said: “I, the Lord, am merciful and gra- cious unto those who fear me, and delight to honor those who serve me in righteousness and in truth unto the end. “Great shall be their reward and eternal shall be their glory. “And to them will I reveal all mys- teries, yea, all the hidden mysteries of my kingdom from days of old, and for ages to come, . . . “Yea, even the wonders of eter- nity shall they know, . . . “And their wisdom shall be great, and their understanding reach to heaven; and before them the wis- dom of the wise shall perish, and the understanding of the prudent shall come to naught. “For by my Spirit will I enlighten them, and by my power will I make known unto them the secrets of my will—yea, even those things which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor yet entered into the heart of man” (D&C 76:5–10). How could anyone ask for more? How glorious is this work in which Suddenly, he halted, and looking at tithing I had paid on Sunday was we are engaged. How wondrous are me he asked, ‘How is your college?’ I very small compared to the amount I the ways of the Almighty when we was surprised, and I couldn’t believe was receiving! During that prayer walk in faith before Him. what I was hearing. The only thing I the words recorded in Malachi came The faith of an investigator is like could answer with a trembling voice to my mind: ‘Prove me now here- a piece of green wood, thrown on a was, ‘Everything is all right!’ He with, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will blazing fire. Warmed by the flames, it looked thoughtfully at me and bid not open you the windows of dries and begins to burn. But if it is farewell again. . . . heaven, and pour you out a blessing, pulled away, it cannot sustain itself. “Suddenly the secretary entered that there shall not be room enough Its flickering flame dies. But if left the room, saying that I was a very to receive it‘ (Mal. 3:10). Up to that with the fire, it gradually begins to fortunate person! When I asked her moment I had never felt the magni- burn with brightness. Soon it is part why, she simply answered: ‘The em- tude of the promise contained in that of the flaming fire and will light ployer has just said that from today scripture and that this command- other, greener wood. on the company is going to pay fully ment was truly a witness of the love And so goes, my brothers and sis- for your college and your books. that God, our Heavenly Father, gives ters, this great work of faith, lifting Before you leave, stop at my desk to His children here on earth.” people across this broad earth to in- and inform me of the costs so that to- Faith is the very fiber that gives creased understanding of the ways morrow I can give you the check.’ strength to this work. Wherever this of the Lord and greater happiness in “A fter she left, crying and feeling Church is established across this following His pattern. very humble, I knelt exactly where I broad world, it is evident. It is not May God, our Eternal Father, was and thanked the Lord for His limited to one country or one nation continue to smile upon this, His generosity. I . . . said to Heavenly or one language or one people. It Kingdom, and cause it to prosper as Father that He didn’t have to bless is found everywhere. We are a peo- we, His children, walk in faith is my me so much. I only needed the cost ple of faith. We walk by faith. We humble prayer in the name of the of one month’s installment, and the move forward on our eternal Lord Jesus Christ, amen.

74 SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION The Plan of Redemption and 7 April 2002 Possibility of an Inheritance in the Kingdom of God Before the foundation of the earth, the plan of salvation was pre- HOW FIRM pared.3 It included the glorious pos- sibility of a divine inheritance in the kingdom of God.4 OUR FOUNDATION The Atonement of Jesus Christ Central to that plan was the Elder Russell M. Nelson Atonement of Jesus Christ. In pre- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles mortal councils, He was foreor- dained by His Father to atone for our sins and break the bands of physical The foundation of one’s individual faith, and spiritual death.5 Jesus declared, if anchored firmly to eternal truth, allows each of us “I . . . was prepared from the founda- tion of the world to redeem my peo- to reach upward with an eternal perspective. ple. . . . In me shall all mankind have life, and that eternally, even they who shall believe on my name.”6 Later, Paul added that the Church is “built upon the foundation of the stands steady and straight. apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ A firm foundation is necessary for himself being the chief corner any building, institution, or individ- stone.”7 ual to endure. With that in mind, let Opposition from the Adversary us consider the foundation of The Even before the world was Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day formed, the Lord was opposed by Saints. Then let us see how the solid Satan.8 He and his minions have al- foundation of the Church supports ways fought against the Savior’s sa- our foundation of faith as individual cred work and will continue to do so. members of the Church. Foreordination for and Conferral of the Priesthood I. FOUNDATION OF THE CHURCH OF Before the foundation of the JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS world, each of us existed as spirit children with our Father in Heaven. This Church stands on a unique Among us were noble and great foundation, anchored to a bedrock of men foreordained to bear the priest- timeless truth. Brothers and sisters, hood.9 Abraham,10 Jeremiah,11 the holy cause in which we are en- Joseph Smith,12 and others13 were bout two decades ago when gaged did not begin in 1820 in the destined to become prophets of a temple was to be built in state of New York. It did not begin in God. Also foreseen was that the Mexico City, architects faced a Bethlehem. It did not begin in the blood of prophets would be shed in Agreat challenge. Because Mexico City Garden of Eden. The underpinnings this holy cause.14 The manner of is situated on a basin over water, of the everlasting gospel were in conferring the priesthood was to some of its buildings settle and be- place even before the world was. come down from the fathers “from come tilted with the passage of time. This reality is affirmed repeatedly the beginning of time, . . . even . . . Construction of a temple there re- in holy writ. I have studied the scrip- before the foundation of the quired a special foundation. Two hun- tures pertaining to that part of eter- earth.”15 dred twenty-one large, reinforced nity before the earth was formed. Sisters Empowered to Glorify God concrete piles1 were driven more than Don’t worry. I won’t quote them all. Sisters received special gifts. They, 100 feet deep into the ground. Onto But I will append some of those cita- according to the Lord, were empow- those pilings, steel straps were an- tions to the published text of this ered “to multiply and replenish the chored and fastened to a unit that can message. These unseen and timeless earth, according to my command- be adjusted if need be to keep the truths constitute “premortal pillars” ment, and to fulfil the promise building level.2 With this unseen but that undergird the foundation of this which was given by my Father be- sure foundation, that temple today Church. fore the foundation of the world, . . .

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 75 Prophet Joseph Smith the Lord de- when all his hail and his mighty clared that “I deign to reveal unto my storm shall beat upon you, it shall church things which have been kept have no power . . . to drag you down hid from before the foundation of the to the gulf of misery and endless world, things that pertain to the dis- wo, because of the rock upon which pensation of the fulness of times.”23 ye are built, which is a sure Redemption of the Dead foundation.”35 The Lord revealed that “the ordi- Even firm foundations cannot nance of baptizing for the dead . . . prevent life’s problems. Wayward was instituted from before the foun- children cause parents to grieve. dation of the world.”24 Salvation Some broken families don’t get was thus made available for those fixed. Gender disorientation is “who should die without a knowl- poorly understood. Married couples, edge of the gospel.”25 A welding for whatever reason, may not be link between generations was pro- blessed with children. Even in our vided, that a whole, complete, and day, “the guilty and the wicked go perfect union of dispensations, unpunished because of their keys, powers, and glories should money.”36 Some things just don’t take place.26 seem fair.37 Brothers and sisters, these unseen With strong underpinnings, how- but sure pillars were in place before ever, we are better able to reach up- Sunlight silhouettes a set of doors on the world was. They undergird the ward for help, even when faced with the west side of the Conference Center. everlasting gospel—now restored in questions without easy answers. The its fulness.27 With such a foundation, poet so wrote: for their exaltation in the eternal this Church will not be moved Who Thou art I know not, worlds, that they may bear the souls from its place,28 even through the 29 But this much I know: of men; . . . herein is the work of my Millennium. Thou hast set the Pleiades Father continued, that he may be In a silver row; glorified.”16 Think of it: When a II. FOUNDATION OF INDIVIDUAL mother bears and cares for a child, MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH Thou hast sent the trackless winds she not only helps the earth answer Loose upon their way; the end of its creation,17 but she glo- Just as buildings and institutions Thou hast reared a colored wall rifies God! have foundations, so do we as indi- ’Twixt the night and day; Children of the Covenant viduals have foundations that sup- Thou hast made the flowers to bloom Children of the covenant were port our faith. Some are weak; some And the stars to shine; designated in the premortal realm. are strong. We can waffle “like a Hid rare gems of richest ore Paul taught that the Lord “hath cho- wave of the sea driven with the In the tunneled mine; sen us in him before the foundation wind and tossed,”30 or we can stand of the world.”18 on a firm foundation and anchor But chief of all Thy wondrous works, Blessings Predicated ourselves with straps of spiritual Supreme of all Thy plan, Thou hast put an upward reach upon Obedience to Law steel, rooted and grounded to the In the heart of Man.38 Then conditions were established timeless pillars of the gospel.31 that allowed us to receive blessings President Gordon B. Hinckley has Though we don’t know all from God—upon obedience to laws asked that our new converts be sus- things,39 we know that God lives and upon which those blessings were tained in the Church by a friend, a that He loves us.40 Standing on that predicated.19 call to serve, and be nourished by firm foundation, we can reach up Sacred Things to Be Revealed the good word of God.32 Often we and find strength to endure the in the Latter Days sing, “How firm a foundation, ye heavy burdens of life. Another pillar pertains to revela- Saints of the Lord, Is laid for your For example, I honor those special tion reserved for the latter days. The faith in his excellent word!”33 When souls who face challenges of parent- Lord had long planned to reveal we receive that nurturing word of hood with unwavering faith in their “things which have been kept secret God, we feast upon His love.34 Maker. To a family dear to Sister from the foundation of the world.”20 Remember: “It is upon the rock of Nelson and me, a son was recently Those things included revelations our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son born. This child was afflicted with recorded in the Book of Mormon.21 of God, that ye must build your multiple anomalies affecting virtually They also included ordinances and foundation; that when the devil shall every system of his little body. Two covenants of the holy temple.22 To the send forth his mighty winds, . . . operations were required in his first

76 The temple and the buildings of downtown Salt Lake City rise up beyond the Conference Center in this view from the northwest. week of life. More will be necessary. From a missionary I received an foundation of this Church was When I spoke with the child’s parents, unforgettable letter. He wrote: “I still forged long before the world was. It they did not ask, “Why did this hap- am not certain why it was that I was is strong. It is true. It is eternal. The pen to us?” Instead, they declared: [afflicted] with [cancer], particularly foundation of one’s individual faith, “We know that this child is meant for during the time I was serving the if anchored firmly to eternal truth, us. God has entrusted this special Lord on a mission, but I can say with allows each of us to reach upward baby to us. We will love him and care all honesty and sincerity that I am with an eternal perspective.43 That for him to the best of our ability.” eternally grateful to our gracious faith will give hope when there is no Thank the Lord for such parents! Heavenly Father for allowing me to hope. It will give us joy here and Not long ago, death came to the have that experience. . . . Not a day eternal life hereafter. I so testify in husband of a friend of ours, suddenly goes by,” he continued, “that I don’t the name of Jesus Christ, amen. and without warning. Of her, these think about the days I spent lying in NOTES words were penned by her own sis- the hospital suffering through 1. Each pile was 18 inches in diameter. ter: “Searching the years and days chemotherapy or grimacing with the 2. See John Forres O’Donnal, Pioneer in Guatemala (1997), 288. just past, she is awestruck, recogniz- pain from another operation. . . . Not 3. See 1 Ne. 10:18; Mosiah 15:19; Alma ing specific skills and experiences put a day passes when I don’t think of 12:25, 30; 18:39; 22:13–14; 42:26; D&C 76:12–13. into her life by a loving Father, things the days I spent studying the scrip- 4. To people of the Old World, the Lord said, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit that might have seemed circum- tures, particularly the Book of the kingdom prepared for you from the foun- stantial at the time but that have Mormon, and remembering the dation of the world” (Matt. 25:34). People of specifically prepared her to cope overwhelming feelings of comfort ancient America were also taught that “they successfully with this heart-breaking and peace which I felt. I often think who have believed in the Holy One of Israel . . . shall inherit the kingdom of God, which loss. Rather than feeling abandoned of the nights when I would retire to was prepared for them from the foundation and bitter, she feels cradled and cared bed and pour out my soul to my of the world” (2 Ne. 9:18; see also Ether 4:19). for. . . . She said to me, ‘When I see Heavenly Father and thank Him for 5. See John 17:5, 24; 1 Pet. 1:19–20; Mosiah 4:6–7; 18:13; 3 Ne. 26:3–5; D&C 93:7–9; Moses how carefully Heavenly Father has preserving my life.” Then the elder 5:57; JST, Gen. 5:43; 14:30–31. prepared and planned for my pre- shared this wonderful news: “I re- 6. Ether 3:14. sent circumstance, how can I be turned to the doctor this week . . . 7. Eph. 2:20. 8. See JST, Rev. 12:6–8. frightened about my future? Surely and . . . he found no evidence of any 9. See Alma 13:3, 5, 7; D&C 132:28; 42 He is putting into place today all that disease in my body.” I love such 138:55–56; Abr. 3:22–23. I will need to face the unknown faithful missionaries! 10. See Abr. 3:23. times ahead.’ ”41 How firm our foundation? The 11. See Jer. 1:4–5.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 77 12. See 2 Ne. 3:5–15; D&C 127:2; 138:53–55. 13. See D&C 138:53. 14. See Luke 11:49–51. 15. Abr. 1:3. 16. D&C 132:63. 17. See D&C 49:16–17. ETERNAL LIFE 18. Eph. 1:4; see also v. 5. Paul also taught that the power of God “who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, . . . was given us in Christ Jesus before THROUGH JESUS CHRIST the world began” (2 Tim. 1:9; see also D&C Elder John M. Madsen 38:1–4; Abr. 3:22–26). It is important to note that the Book of Mormon serves “to show Of the Seventy unto the remnant of the House of Israel what great things the Lord hath done for their fathers; and that they may know the covenants of the Lord” (Book of Mormon, To know the Lord Jesus Christ, we and all mankind title page). 19. See D&C 130:20–21; 132:5, 11–12. must receive Him. And to receive Him, 20. Matt. 13:35. 21. See 2 Ne. 27:10. we must receive His servants. 22. See D&C 124:40–41. 23. D&C 124:41. 24. D&C 124:33. 25. D&C 128:5. 26. See D&C 128:18. Simply stated, eternal life is to live 27. See Acts 3:20–21. forever as families in the presence of 28. See Dan. 2:28, 31–44; D&C 65:2–6; 124:45. 29. See Bruce R. McConkie, The Millennial God (see D&C 132:19–20, 24, 55). Messiah (1982), 672. In His great Intercessory Prayer, 30. James 1:6. the Savior gives to all mankind the 31. See Eph. 3:17–19; Col. 2:6–7. 32. See “Some Thoughts on Temples, key to obtaining eternal life: “And Retention of Converts, and Missionary Service,” this is life eternal, that they might Ensign, Nov. 1997, 51; also Jacob 6:7; Moro. 6:4. know thee the only true God, and 33. Hymns, no. 85; see also 2 Ne. 28:27–30. Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” 34. See Jacob 3:2. 35. Hel. 5:12. Remember also that a wise (John 17:3). man builds his house upon a rock and not But how can man come to know upon shifting sand (see Matt. 7:24–27). the only true God? 36. Hel. 7:5. 37. Whether things seem “fair” relate to The Savior answers: “I am the the limits of one’s perspective. Paul taught, “If way, the truth, and the life: no man in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are cometh unto the Father, but by me” of all men most miserable” (1 Cor. 15:19). (John 14:6). 38. Harry Kemp, “God the Architect,” in James Dalton Morrison, ed., Masterpieces of I testify that the only way we and Religious Verse (1948), 46–47. all mankind can come unto our 39. Compared with the omniscience of our lmost 2,000 years ago, a rich Heavenly Father and know Him, Creator, we know relatively little about di- nosaurs or the details of the Creation, for ex- young man asked an ex- and thus obtain eternal life, is to ample. But this we do know: “Verily I say unto tremely important question of come unto the Lord Jesus Christ and you, in that day when the Lord shall come, he theA Savior: “Good Master, what good know Him. shall reveal all things—things which have passed, and hidden things which no man thing shall I do, that I may have eter- But who is Jesus Christ that we knew, things of the earth, by which it was nal life?” (Matt. 19:16). should come unto Him and know made, and the purpose and the end thereof— Having “heard” the Savior’s in- Him? I know of no more wonderful things most precious, things that are above, and things that are beneath, things that are in structions and His gentle invitation summary of the identity and role of the earth, and upon the earth, and in heaven” to “come and follow me” (Matt. the Lord Jesus Christ than the decla- (D&C 101:32–34; see also 121:29–32). 19:21), the rich young man “went ration of the First Presidency and the 40. See 1 Ne. 11:16–17. away sorrowful: for he had great Quorum of the Twelve entitled “The 41. Virginia H. Pearce, in Why I Believe (2002), 245–46. possessions” (Matt. 19:22). Living Christ: The Testimony of the 42. Personal correspondence, 15 Jan. 2002. Tragically, millions in the world to- Apostles,” from which I quote: 43. Our mortal probation has been likened day still prize and choose “the riches “[Jesus Christ] was the Great to the second act of a three-act play. When the curtain comes down on act two, the play is of the earth” over the “riches of eter- Jehovah of the Old Testament, the not over. Without the vision gained from acts nity” (D&C 38:39), not knowing or Messiah of the New. Under the di- one and three, the second act could seem ei- fully understanding that “he that hath rection of His Father, He was the cre- ther too short, too long, too hard, or too con- eternal life is rich” (D&C 6:7; emphasis ator of the earth. . . . fusing. When we know about all three acts, the second act acquires greater significance. added), and that eternal life is God’s “. . . He gave His life to atone for Thus the need for an eternal perspective. greatest gift to man (see D&C 14:7). the sins of all mankind. . . .

78 “. . . He was the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the world. “He rose from the grave to ‘be- come the firstfruits of them that slept’ (1 Corinthians 15:20). As Risen Lord, He . . . ministered among His ‘other sheep’ (John 10:16) in ancient America. . . . He and His Father ap- peared to the boy Joseph Smith, ushering in the long-promised ‘dis- pensation of the fulness of times’ (Ephesians 1:10). . . . “. . . His priesthood and His Church have been restored upon the earth—‘built upon the foundation of . . . apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone’ (Ephesians 2:20). “. . . He will someday return to earth . . . [and] rule as King of Kings and reign as Lord of Lords. . . . Each of us will stand to be judged of Him. . . . “. . . His duly ordained Apostles [bear testimony] that Jesus is the Living Christ, the immortal Son of God. He is the great King Immanuel. . . . He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world” (Ensign, Apr. 2000, 2–3). It is wonderful, and absolutely es- To know the Lord Jesus Christ, we The meaning of the word ought, as sential, to know who the Lord Jesus and all mankind must receive Him. used in His question, “What manner Christ is. And to receive Him, we must receive of men ought ye to be?” is crucial to But again, I testify that the only His servants (see Matt. 10:40; D&C understanding His answer, “Even as I way we and all mankind can come 1:38; 68:8–9; 84:36; 112:20). am.” The word ought means “to be unto our Heavenly Father and know To receive Him, we must receive necessary” or “to be held or bound in Him, and thus obtain eternal life, is the fulness of His gospel, His ever- duty or moral obligation” (Noah to come unto the Lord Jesus Christ lasting covenant, including all those Webster’s First Edition of an American and know Him. truths or laws, covenants, and ordi- Dictionary of the English Language, 7th What does it mean to know the nances needed for mankind to enter ed. [1993], “ought”; see also Luke Lord Jesus Christ, and how can we back into the presence of God (see 24:26), suggesting—and the holy come to know Him? D&C 39:11; 45:9; 66:2; 76:40–43; scriptures, ancient and modern, con- The Savior answers: “Strait is the 132:12; 133:57). firm—that it is “necessary,” and that gate, and narrow the way that leadeth To receive Him, faithful sons of we are “bound,” as by covenant, “to unto the exaltation and continuation God must receive His priesthood, and be,” as He declared, “even as I am” of the lives, and few there be that find magnify their callings (D&C 84:33–35). (3 Ne. 27:27; see also 3 Ne. 12:48; it, because ye receive me not in the But ultimately, to receive Him and Matt. 5:48; 1 Jn. 3:2; Moro. 7:48). world neither do ye know me. But if know Him, we and all mankind It is my prayer that the time may ye receive me in the world, then shall must, as Moroni exhorts, “come unto soon come “when the knowledge of a ye know me” (D&C 132:22–23). Christ, and be perfected in him” (Moro. Savior shall spread throughout every Can we truly and fully compre- 10:32; emphasis added). In other nation, kindred, tongue, and people” hend His words? “If ye receive words, we must come unto Christ (Mosiah 3:20; see also Moses 7:62; Isa. me”—the Great Jehovah, the and strive to “become” like Him (see 11:9), that all who will may receive Messiah, the Creator of the earth, the Dallin H. Oaks, “The Challenge to Him, even the Lord Jesus Christ, and Savior and Redeemer of the world, Become,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 32–34). know Him, that they may come unto the immortal Son of God—“If ye re- Said the risen Lord: “What manner our Heavenly Father, and know Him, ceive me . . . , then shall ye know me” of men ought ye to be? Verily I say and thus obtain eternal life, in the (D&C 132:23; emphasis added). unto you, even as I am” (3 Ne. 27:27). name of Jesus Christ, amen.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 79 day reading the Epistle of James, first chapter and fifth verse, which reads: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of SOME BASIC TEACHINGS God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him” (JS—H 1:11). During his short ministry, Joseph FROM THE HISTORY Smith also received many other im- portant revelations which were the result of reading the scriptures. You OF JOSEPH SMITH need to study them in order to come Elder Carlos H. Amado to know God, who is the source of all Of the Seventy truth.

PRINCIPLE 3: LEARN THE VALUE Conversion is a personal and spiritual process. Every OF PRAYER. individual must examine these principles for himself. The young Joseph said: “A t length I came to the conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and confusion, or else I must do as remains as a blessing and a gift of James directs, that is, ask of God. . . . faith, a legacy, for the sincere be- “. . . It was the first time in my life liever; it is an open invitation for that I had made such an attempt, for those who look for the truth, and amidst all my anxieties I had never as a permanent challenge to the yet made the attempt to pray vocally. unbeliever. “. . . I kneeled down and began to For those who are not yet members offer up the desires of my heart to of the Church, I suggest you read the God. . . . testimony of Joseph Smith with an “. . . I had found the testimony of open mind and real intent. You will James to be true—that a man who feel his sincerity, and you will discover lacked wisdom might ask of God, the establishment of the Church, re- and obtain, and not be upbraided” stored in a miraculous way! (JS—H 1:13–15, 26). Although there is ample spiritual Our Heavenly Father, as a perfect content to this fascinating story, I father, knows all your spiritual and will limit my remarks to sharing five material needs and wants to bless principles which, just as they did for you, which is why He has given you the Prophet, will help you to come to the commandment to seek Him and he history of Joseph Smith was know God. ask Him. written to share the story of Joseph came to know the truth be- the Restoration of the Church PRINCIPLE 1: HAVEASINCERE DESIRE cause he prayed. In our time, millions Tin these latter days. The essence of TO KNOW THE TRUTH. of members of this Church also tes- the story is a demonstration of trust tify of the reality of the Restoration in the promises of the Lord, and a Joseph Smith had an intense de- because, following that counsel, they source of joy and certainty for all sire to know God and to do His will. asked the Lord with faith. You have those who believe. You can develop that same desire, the same right to receive an answer I have been able to read it many and God Himself can lead you to the to your prayers because a testimony is times and in different circumstances. truth. When you recognize that a gift that God gives only to those who It impressed me as a child; it was a truth, do all that you can to live your ask with real intent. Tr y it, and the guide and source of strength when life in accordance with it. promise will be fulfilled. I was a teenager; I shared it with courage and enthusiasm as a young PRINCIPLE 2: LEARN THE IMPORTANCE PRINCIPLE 4: DISCOVER THE BLESSING missionary; and even now it contin- OF READING THE SCRIPTURES. OF MEDITATION. ues to fill me with astonishment and a deep sense of gratitude. Since Joseph Smith knew them because Joseph Smith meditated often; Joseph Smith first recorded it, it he studied them. He said: “I was one he thought, analyzed, compared; he

80 tried to find answers to what he read in the scriptures. He said: “During this time of great excite- ment my mind was called up to seri- ous reflection and great uneasiness. . . . “. . . I often said to myself: . . . Who of all these parties are right; or, are they all wrong together? If any one of them be right, which is it, and how shall I know it? . . . “Never did any passage of scrip- ture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again” (JS—H 1:8, 10, 12). To meditate about eternal truths is to think and to ask ourselves, over and over: “How can I know?” “How have others come to know?” How can you come to a knowl- It is not enough to make a half- God and His prophets. The outward edge of these things? Please meditate hearted attempt, accompanied by sign we see is that they separate about it seriously. doubts, fear, or lack of trust. God themselves, become less active, or promises us, because of His mercy, even contend against the Church. PRINCIPLE 5: EXPERIENCE THE JOY that He will answer our petitions in The inward sign is that they have OF GOING TO CHURCH. accordance with our sincerity. Only ceased to practice one or more of those who seek with real intent will these five things: In his desire to know the truth, receive their answer, as a gift from 1. They no longer have a sincere Joseph Smith went to various de- God, through the Holy Ghost. desire to know all the truth. nominations in his community. The Holy Ghost is also called the 2. They no longer read the About his experience with God the Comforter and the Witness. To Him scriptures. Father and His Son Jesus Christ, he we owe our knowledge and our tes- 3. They no longer pray. described clearly the instructions he timony that Christ is the Son of God. 4. They no longer meditate about received about other churches: After you are baptized, if you re- eternal truths. “I asked the Personages who main worthy and faithful to your 5. They no longer go to church. stood above me in the light, which of covenants, you will have the con- It is wonderful that in a time of all the sects was right (for at this time stant guidance of the Holy Ghost, great religious confusion, while not it had never entered into my heart through whisperings, impressions, yet 15 years old, in the midst of op- that all were wrong)—and which I feelings, dreams, and warnings. position and even persecution, should join. . . . History and the scriptures tell us Joseph Smith patiently and dili- “. . . It was not my duty to join with of people who heard, talked with, or gently demonstrated obedience and any of them, but to continue as I was in some other way had concrete evi- showed us the simple but effective until further directed” (JS—H 1:18, 26). dence of the existence of God and way to draw closer to God. All of us need to come to know the His plan for our salvation. Never- This process requires that we kingdom of God on earth and to re- theless, many of them did not re- learn, precept upon precept, a little ceive a testimony of its truth. We go to main true to their convictions. here and a little there, until we church to feel the Spirit, learn His doc- We learn from this that it is not develop faith and clear understand- trine, renew our covenants, and re- what we learn through our physical ing of our divine potential (see 2 Ne. ceive the ordinances of salvation and senses but that which comes under 28:30). exaltation to return to the presence of the influence of the Holy Ghost It is our responsibility to God with our families. You are cor- which allows us to understand God’s strengthen, day by day, the impres- dially invited to come to church and purposes and to follow Him. sions that we feel through the Spirit, see for yourself all these things. When someone has learned these by applying these five principles. Conversion is a personal and spir- basic principles and ceases to practice It is my prayer that we may do itual process. Every individual must them, he loses the light and guide this, constantly, in the name of Jesus examine these principles for himself. which helps him to understand Christ, amen.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 81 William felt that way: hostile. It seemed that whatever happened, it was the Lord’s fault—an illness, a CHARITY: PERFECT AND death, a wayward child, a personal weakness, an “unanswered” prayer—all of which hardened his heart. His inner anger, which could EVERLASTING LOVE flare up in but a moment, was di- Elder Gene R. Cook rected toward God, his fellowman, Of the Seventy and himself. From his heart em- anated unbelief, stubbornness, pride, contention, and a loss of hope, love, As we increasingly think and act like Him, and direction. He was miserable! the attributes of the natural man will slip away These destroyers of peace11 blinded William to God’s feelings for to be replaced by the heart and the mind of Christ. him. He could neither discover nor feel God’s love. He did not see, espe- cially in those dark moments, that God was richly blessing him even “perfect” and “everlasting.”4 still. Instead, he returned anger for As difficult as charity is to de- love. Have we not all felt that at scribe, it is rather easily recognized times? Even when we have merited in the lives of those who possess it. love the least, He has loved us the • An aged, crippled grandmother most. Truly, He loves us first.12 who subscribes to an afternoon newspaper, knowing it will bring her SUFFERING WITH PURPOSE: delivery-boy grandson to her home CHARITY IS EMPOWERING every day where, at her knee, she teaches him to pray. Now, my Christlike friend Betty • A mother who, in hard eco- was just the opposite. She encoun- nomic times and scarcity of meat, tered many of the same difficulties as seems to savor only chicken wings, did William, but because she felt to the puzzlement of all. God’s love, she suffered tribulation • A man who suffers an unde- in the Savior’s name,13 partook of served public chastisement, but His divine nature,14 and thus gained humbly receives it anyway. a deeper faith in and a love for God, Is not the common thread in these along with the strength to handle y dear brothers and sisters, I examples charity, a selflessness, a not whatever might come. desire more than anything seeking for anything in return? All of Her love for others increased. She this hour to bear witness, a our divine attributes seem to flow seemed to even forgive others in ad- personalM witness, of the love of God from and be encompassed by this vance. She learned how to cause for me, for you, and for all mankind. one.5 All men may have the gift of them to feel her love. She learned What man is sufficiently adequate to love, but charity is bestowed only that love shared is love multiplied. be able to express the depth of his upon those who are true followers of Finally, she learned to love herself gratitude in recognition of the love Christ.6 more, being more kind, gentle, and of God? How blessed I have been for The very power of God is found long-suffering. She stopped her so many years to be with you and to in His attributes of godliness.7 The struggle for self-esteem and started have found the pure love of Christ power of the priesthood is main- loving herself the way God loved emanating from you. I am deeply in- tained by these attributes.8 We seek her. Her image of herself became His debted to you and to God. these attributes, especially charity, image of her. the pure love of Christ.9 DEFINING CHARITY RECOGNIZING, RECEIVING, AND DESTROYERS OF LOVE AND PEACE CONVEYING GOD’S LOVE The Lord said that charity is “the pure love of Christ,”1 that which is Yet there stands the devil, the de- How, then, can we better “clothe “most joyous to the soul,”2 “the stroyer of this love, replacing it with [ourselves] with the bond of charity greatest of all the gifts of God,”3 anger and hostility.10 My friend . . . of perfectness and peace”?15 May I

82 share with you three suggestions. kind, with real feelings of love? He them separately a number of times, e.g., D&C 4:5. Some have said charity is love plus sacri- 1. Recognize His love. “Pray . . . gives grace (or goodness) for grace, fice—a seasoned love. Perhaps charity is to with all the energy of heart”16 for attribute for attribute. As our obedi- love as faith is to belief. Both faith and charity this gift. Do so in meekness with a ence increases, we receive more grace take action, work, and sacrifice. Charity en- compasses His love for us, our love for Him, broken heart, and you will be filled (or goodness) for the grace we return and Christlike love for others. 28 with hope and love from the Holy to Him. Offer Him the refinement of 7. See D&C 84:19–24. Ghost Himself. He will reveal Christ your attributes, so that when He does 8. See D&C 121:41–46. 17 29 9. “A man filled with the love of God, is to you. appear you will be like Him. not content with blessing his family alone, but It is part of the gift of charity to be As a man first immerses his ranges through the whole world, anxious to able to recognize the Lord’s hand thoughts in love and conveys those bless the whole human race” (Joseph Smith, and feel His love in all that sur- feelings to God, man, or self, a mag- History of the Church, 4:227). 10. When real suffering occurs in life, the rounds us. At times it will not be easy nified portion of that attribute will devil is always there to sour men’s hearts in to discover the Lord’s love for us in surely follow from the Spirit. That is anger, while the Lord continually emanates all that we experience, because He is true of all godly attributes. Righteous love. In the same suffering “many had become hardened . . . and many were softened because a perfect, anonymous giver. You will feelings generated by a man seem to of their afflictions” (Alma 62:41). What a won- search all your life to uncover His precede the increase of those feelings derful example of how to respond to affliction. hand and the gifts He has bestowed from the Spirit. Unless you are feel- 11. Some destroyers of men’s love and peace include but are not limited to: fear, per- upon you because of His intimate, ing love, you cannot convey true love fectionism, envy, unsubmissiveness, doubt, modest, humble way of granting to others. The Lord has told us to anger, jealousy, unrighteous control, unbelief, such wonderful gifts. love one another as He loves us,30 so impatience, judging, fostering hurt feelings, 31 pride, contention, murmuring, seeking for Ponder with me a moment the fol- remember: to be loved, truly love. honor, competition, lying. All of these are of lowing majestic gifts: the glories of the natural man, and not of the man of Christ. all creation,18 the earth, the heavens; THE FRUITS OF THE GIFT OF CHARITY 12. See 1 Jn. 4:19. your feelings of love and joy; His re- 13. See D&C 138:13. My friend knew the suffering would help her prove herself (see sponses of mercy, forgiveness, and Brothers and sisters, as an especial Abr. 3:24–25; D&C 98:13–14); learn to choose innumerable answers to prayer; the witness of Christ, I bear testimony to between good and evil (see 2 Ne. 2:18); learn gift of loved ones; and finally the you again of the overwhelming love that blessings come after the trials (see D&C 58:2–4); learn obedience, patience, and faith greatest gift of all—the Father’s gift of God for each of us personally. (see D&C 105:6; Mosiah 23:21; Rom. 5:3–5); of His atoning Son, the perfect one Magnifying that gift from God will obtain a forgiveness of sin (see Hel. 15:3; D&C in charity, even the God of love.19 bring a new heart, a pure heart, and 132:50, 60; 95:1). 14. See 2 Pet. 1:1–8. 2. Receive His love in humility. Be ever-increasing love and peace. As 15. D&C 88:125. grateful for the gift and especially for we increasingly think and act like 16. Moro. 7:48. the giver of the gift.20 Tr ue gratitude Him, the attributes of the natural 17. See Moro. 8:25–26; Rom. 5:5; 2 Ne. 26:13. is the ability to humbly see, feel, and man will slip away to be replaced by 18. See Moses 6:63; Alma 30:44. 21 32 19. See 1 Jn. 4:8. even receive love. Gratitude is a the heart and the mind of Christ. 20. See D&C 88:33. form of returning love to God. We will become like Him and then 21. See Alma 5:26. Recognize His hand, tell Him so, ex- truly receive Him.33 22. See Alma 26:16; Moro. 10:3. 22 23. See D&C 133:52–53. press your love to Him. As you The prophet of the Lord here be- 24. See Alma 34:38. come to truly know the Lord, you fore you loves you, as do all these, 25. See 1 Jn. 2:15–17. will find an intimate, sacred relation- my Brethren. May the Lord bless us 26. See Mosiah 4:11–12. 27. See Alma 38:12. ship built on trust. You will come to to always have “the affections of 28. See D&C 93:12–13, 20. know He understands your an- [our] heart . . . placed upon [Him] 29. See 1 Jn. 3:1–3. guish23 and will, in compassion, al- forever.”34 “That [our] burdens may 30. See John 13:34; D&C 112:11. ways respond to you in love. be light, through the joy of his Son”35 31. “Beware of pride, and not seek to excel one above another, but act for each other’s good” Receive it. Feel it. It is not enough is my prayer in the name of the Lord (Joseph Smith, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph just to know that God loves you. The Jesus Christ, amen. Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 155). gift is to be felt continually day by NOTES 32. See 1 Cor. 2:16; 2 Cor. 10:5. day.24 It will then be a divine motiva- 1. Moro. 7:47. 33. “That man is most truly great who is 2. See 1 Ne. 11:22–23; 8:10–12. most Christlike. What you sincerely in your tor throughout your life. Repent. 3. 1 Ne. 15:36. heart think of Christ will determine what you Remove any worldliness from your 4. Moro. 8:17. are, will largely determine what your acts will life,25 including anger. Receive a con- 5. “There is one virtue, attribute, or prin- be. . . . By choosing him as our ideal, we create 26 ciple, which, if cherished and practiced by the within ourselves a desire to be like him, to tinual remission of your sins, and Saints, would prove salvation to thousands have fellowship with him” (David O. McKay, you will bridle all your passions and upon thousands. I allude to charity, or love, in Conference Report, Apr. 1951, 93, 98). If you be filled with love.27 from which proceed forgiveness, long suffer- think about Him long enough, you will begin ing, kindness, and patience” (Brigham Young, to act like Him. If you act like Him long 3. Convey His love. The Lord’s re- Deseret News, 11 Jan. 1860, 353). enough, you’ll truly become like Him. sponse to us is always filled with love. 6. See Moro. 7:48. Is there a difference be- 34. Alma 37:36. Should not our response to Him be in tween charity and love? The Lord referred to 35. Alma 33:23.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 83 know that I was called. I pledge to you my love, my support, and I ask that you be patient as I learn. FEEL THE LOVE I invite the young adult women of the Church, wherever you are, to look at Relief Society and know that you are needed there, that we love you, OF THE LORD that together we can have a grand Bonnie D. Parkin time. Please come and be with us. Relief Society General President As Wallace Stegner wrote of the Mormons, “Their women were in- credible.”1 And they are today! I If I could have one thing happen for every woman know that the Lord loves the women in this Church, it would be that they would feel of the Church. If I could have one thing happen for every woman in the love of the Lord in their lives. this Church, it would be that they would feel the love of the Lord in their lives daily. I have felt the love of the Lord in my life, and I am so grateful for sons and for their wives, thankful for that. I’m thankful for who have helped them become bet- the peace that I have felt. ter men. I’m grateful for grandchil- I testify of my Savior Jesus Christ. dren. The other evening we drove I know He lives. I have felt His love; down to the home of one of our sons I have felt His forgiveness. I think of to tell him about this calling. They a sister missionary as she departed had their children tucked in bed. I the mission. In her final testimony said to Brett and Angie, “I’ve been she said, “I came on a mission to let called to be the general Relief Society Heavenly Father know I loved Him, president.” And Brett said, “You? The to express appreciation to Him, and president of the Relief Society for the to pay Him back,” and she said, “I’m whole Church?” Aren’t your children leaving more in His debt than I ever wonderful? He said what I have been was before I came.” feeling for the past few weeks. I give testimony of the power of a Yesterday when we arrived home, prophet of God, President Gordon B. I had a fax from our son David and Hinckley, and I’m thankful for him his wife, Jennifer, in Belgium. David and for his love and for all prophets said, “Mother, I know you can do it. who have had confidence in me. I rothers and sisters, there is a You may not remember, but you testify of these things in the name of saying: “Welcome the opportu- used to have a scripture on the Jesus Christ, amen. nity that takes you beyond your fridge that said, ‘As for me and my NOTE ordinaryB self if you would grow.” house, we will serve the Lord’ (Josh. 1. The Gathering of Zion: The Story of the And I’m sure I’m going to grow. May 24:15).” He said, “I was in and out of Mormon Trail (1964), 13. I express our thanks to Sister Smoot, the fridge a lot, and I knew that you Sister Dew, and Sister Jensen for the and Dad meant that.” I’m so grateful great service they’ve given to all of us for our children. as members of the Church. I express I’m grateful to the women of the my gratitude to my counselors, Kathy Church who have mentored me, and Anne, for their willingness to who have loved me, who have serve. They are women of faith. taught me, who have believed in me. I am so grateful this day for my I’m grateful for the missionaries in mother and father, for the teachings the England London South Mission, they gave me, for their love, for for their goodness, for the way they teaching me to work. I do know how keep their covenants. I’m grateful for to work. I am grateful for my hus- the British Saints who loved me and band. Jim is a wonderful companion. helped me be part of that great land. I love him, and I’m grateful for his Now, brothers and sisters, I do not support. He’s a man of integrity. I’m know why I was called, but I do

84 hands unto” (Deut. 12:18). We are grateful for this privilege to rejoice in the Lord at this new opportunity. THE OPPORTUNITY Since starting on those paths, we have come to learn how truly merci- ful God is, how deeply He loves us, and how perfectly compelling His TO SERVE love is for us. When I was 16 years Elder Gerald N. Lund old and not smart enough to know Of the Seventy very much at all, the Spirit touched my heart and I realized the signifi- cance of the woman that you marry. I know how deeply He loves us and Starting at that time I began to pray how perfectly compelling His love is for us. that the Lord would find for me the woman who would be my eternal companion. Those prayers were an- swered, and all that we now enjoy in our family with children and grand- and in verse four makes a remarkable children is largely responsible to her. statement. He suggests that we have I’ve come to know that Jesus is our to be careful what we desire, for the Christ, that His and the Father’s mer- Lord grants unto us the desires of our cies are infinite and never ending, even heart. And then came what was to when we’re not deserving. I’ve always me almost a stunning statement: loved the Prophet Joseph Smith, but it “Whether they be unto salvation or was my privilege to spend about 10 unto destruction.” God will grant unto years in an intensive and extensive us, according to our will, the things study of his life, of his writings, of his which we desire (see Alma 29:1–5). teachings, and of those who knew and I went home that day—and it’s loved him, and I came to know that not that I felt any of my desires were here is a prophet of prophets, one wrong—but in that moment I real- who was worthy to bring about the ized that those desires were mine. Restoration of this last great dispensa- That day I began to try to let the tion. And I’ve come to know with great Lord know that what I’d like to do is power that those keys that he restored fulfill His desires. Even then, I have continued unbroken to this day thought I really meant it, but I came and now reside in our living prophet, fter 34 years in the Church Edu- to know that that’s an easy thing to even Gordon B. Hinckley. cational System, my wife and I say and a difficult thing to do. As Again, we rejoice in this opportu- decided about three years ago Elder Maxwell said yesterday, only nity to serve. We are deeply hum- toA retire and set our feet on some dif- when we truly yield our hearts to bled and greatly honored, and I ferent paths in life. At that point we God can He begin to accelerate the leave that testimony with you in the began to make plans. We changed our purification and the sanctification name of Jesus Christ, amen. residence to be closer to children and and the perfecting process (see Hel. grandchildren. I began to develop 3:35). We have found in the three what I thought were some wonderful years that have come since that time projects. Some were absolutely bril- that the Lord has set our feet on dif- liant, I thought. And then one of those ferent paths than we expected, and pivotal moments in life happened. this one is the latest. It was our privilege at that time to Just the other day, after President be living across the street from Elder Hinckley called my wife and me, F. Enzio Busche, now an emeritus I was reading in the book of Seventy, and his wife. One day Elder Deuteronomy and found a verse in Busche taught our high priests quo- the 12th chapter that came to mean a rum, and he cited a scripture in the lot to me. It’s put in the form of a book of Alma where Alma longs to commandment. The Lord says, have the voice of an angel. Then Alma “Thou shalt rejoice before the Lord immediately repents of those feelings, thy God in all that thou puttest thine

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 85 and President Faust, and President Packer and all of the Twelve as prophets, seers, and revelators. I bear I’LL GO WHERE YOU witness that indeed they are prophets, seers, and revelators. I love the Lord. I love this Church. I love the wonderful, faithful Saints WANT METOGO throughout the world who do all Elder William R. Walker that they can to honor their commit- Of the Seventy ments and to live their religion. I bear witness that God lives and that Jesus Christ, His Son, is our Savior I love Him. I want to do all that I can to serve and our Redeemer. I love Him. I as He would have me serve. want to do all that I can to serve as He would have me serve, and I say these words and bear my witness to the truthfulness of these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

y beloved brothers and sis- ters, it is with deep humility and great appreciation that I Mstand in this holy place. As a little boy growing up in Raymond, Alberta, Canada, I loved it every time we sang, “I’ll go where you want me to go, dear Lord” (see Hymns, no. 270). Those words, each time we sang them in a sacrament meeting or Sunday School, burned commitment into my heart and soul, that I always wanted to go where the Lord wanted me to go, to say what He wanted me to say—“I’ll be what you want me to be,” dear Lord. That commitment seems appropriate to restate today. I’m grateful for the sustaining vote of yesterday, and with you I sustain President Gordon B. Hinckley and Young members give their best to a hymn, with the pipes of the Conference Center his counselors, President Monson organ backing them up.

86 be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm” (Mark 4:37–39). THE PEACEABLE THINGS Can you imagine what the Apostles must have been thinking as they watched the very elements— the wind, the rain, and the sea— OF THE KINGDOM obey their Master’s calm command? Elder M. Russell Ballard Although they had only recently Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles been called to the holy apostleship, they knew Him and they loved Him and believed in Him. They had left Peace—real peace, whole-souled to the very core their work and their families to fol- of your being—comes only in and through faith low Him. In a relatively short period of time, they had heard Him teach in the Lord Jesus Christ. incredible things, and they had seen Him perform mighty miracles. But this was beyond their comprehen- sion, and the looks on their faces disheartening days for the children must have shown it. of Israel. Toiling under the domina- “And he said unto them, Why are tion of the Roman Empire, they ye so fearful? how is it that ye have yearned for freedom and peace. They no faith? awaited the Messiah; they were sure “And they feared exceedingly, and He would come to deliver them from said one to another, What manner of physical and political oppression. man is this, that even the wind and And some responded to the Savior’s the sea obey him?” (Mark 4:40–41). gospel of happiness and peace, al- In turbulent and sometimes though they did not yet fully appre- frightening times, the Savior’s ciate all of its spiritual implications. promise of infinite and eternal peace On one particular day early in the resonates with special power to us, Lord’s mortal ministry, a great multi- just as His ability to calm the crash- tude followed Him to the Sea of ing waves must have profoundly af- Galilee and pressed around Him as He fected those who were with Him on stood on the shore. “So . . . he entered the Sea of Galilee that stormy night into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the so long ago. whole multitude was by the sea on the Like those who were alive at the rothers and sisters, may I, on land. And he taught them many time of His mortal ministry, there are behalf of all of us, express ap- things by parables” (Mark 4:1–2). some among us who look for physi- preciation also to the Relief Great and wonderful things were cal peace and prosperity as signs of SocietyB presidency and their board taught that day, including the para- the Savior’s wondrous power. We who have served us so well and are ble of the sower (see Mark 4:3–20). At sometimes fail to understand that just recently released. the end of a full day of teaching and the everlasting peace Jesus promises Once again we are approaching instruction, the Lord suggested to is an inner peace, born in faith, an- the close of another uplifting and in- His disciples that they cross to the chored by testimony, nurtured with spiring general conference. I always other side of the Sea of Galilee. love, and expressed through contin- feel so energized and enlightened While they were sailing that ual obedience and repentance. It is a during these marvelous days of night, “there arose a great storm of peace of spirit that echoes through teaching and testimony. I know that wind, and the waves beat into the the heart and the soul. If one truly most of you feel the same way. Per- ship, so that it was now full. knows and experiences this inner haps what we feel during conference “And he was in the hinder part of peace, there is no fear from worldly is similar to the feeling experienced the ship, asleep on a pillow: and disharmony or discord. One knows by the Savior’s earliest disciples as they awake him, and say unto him, deep down inside that all is well as they followed Him from place to Master, carest thou not that we far as the things that really matter place to hear Him teach the good perish? are concerned. news of His gospel. “And he arose, and rebuked the As President Hinckley instructed In many ways those were wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, the brethren last night, there is no

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 87 Atonement, the Lord Jesus Christ made this significant promise to His Apostles: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you” (John 14:27). Was He promising His beloved as- sociates the kind of peace the world recognizes—safety, security, with the absence of contention or tribulation? Certainly the historical record would suggest otherwise. Those original Apostles knew much of trial and per- secution throughout the remainder of their lives, which is probably why the Lord added this insight to His promise: “Not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace,” He continued. “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33; emphasis added). Peace—real peace, whole-souled to the very core of your being— President Hinckley salutes the congregation in the Conference Center with his cane as comes only in and through faith in President Monson looks on. the Lord Jesus Christ. When that precious truth is discovered and peace in sin. There may be ease, pop- know good from evil” (Moro. 7:16), gospel principles are understood and ularity, fame, and even prosperity, as it leads us to repent of sins and applied, great peace can distill in the but there is no peace. “Wickedness seek forgiveness. For all there is a hearts and souls of our Heavenly never was happiness” (Alma 41:10). hunger to know “the peaceable Father’s children. Said the Savior One cannot be at peace if one is liv- things of the kingdom” (D&C 36:2) through Joseph Smith, “He who ing a life out of harmony with re- and to taste “the fruit[s] of righteous- doeth the works of righteousness vealed truth. There is no peace in ness,” which are “sown in peace of shall receive his reward, even peace being mean-spirited or contentious. them that make peace” (James 3:18). in this world, and eternal life in the There is no peace in vulgarity, In every home, neighborhood, and world to come” (D&C 59:23). promiscuity, or permissiveness. community, we ought to strive for It is sometimes amazing to see the There is no peace in addiction to peace and never be party to stirring difference this peace can have in the drugs, alcohol, or pornography. up contention or division. lives of those who accept it. While I There is no peace in being abusive to Throughout scriptural history, the was presiding over the Canada others in any way, whether it be Lord has promised peace to His fol- Toronto Mission many years ago, our emotionally, physically, or sexually, lowers. The Psalmist wrote, “The missionaries began teaching a family for those who are abusive will re- Lord will give strength unto his peo- that was in spiritual darkness. They main in mental and spiritual turmoil ple; the Lord will bless his people were poor, uneducated, and their until they come to Christ in all hu- with peace” (Ps. 29:11). Isaiah re- personal appearance reflected a lack mility and seek forgiveness through ferred to the Savior as “The Prince of of appreciation or concern for nor- complete repentance. Peace” (Isa. 9:6). And Nephi foresaw mal hygiene and grooming. But they At one time or another I believe the day among his descendants were good, honorable people— everyone yearns for the “peace of when “the Son of righteousness shall among the honest in heart that we God, which passeth all understand- appear unto them; and he shall heal always pray for our missionaries to ing” (Philip. 4:7). That peace for our them, and they shall have peace find—and they responded spiritu- troubled hearts only comes to us as with him” (2 Ne. 26:9). ally as they felt for the first time we follow the Light of Christ, which Just hours before He was to begin in their lives the peace the gospel is “given to every man, that he may that glorious yet awful process of the offers.

88 When we learned that they were come to sacrament meeting appro- To be consoled as to console; going to be baptized, Sister Ballard priately dressed. To be understood as to understand; and I attended the baptismal service. They sat with their missionaries, To be loved as to love. I happened to be standing next to and the light of the gospel literally For it is in giving that we receive; the bishop of the ward when the shone from them. Alma describes It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, family arrived. In all honesty, I must this as “[receiving God’s] image in And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. tell you that they were quite a sight. your countenances” (Alma 5:14). I They looked unkempt, unclean, and leaned over to the bishop again and On more than one occasion, the somewhat scruffy. Because he had said: “See, Bishop? We will make Lord urged His followers to be been out of town for a period of Saints out of them!” “peacemakers,” promising that such time, the bishop had not yet met the Of course, that overnight physical would “be called the children of newest members of his ward; so this transformation was merely super- God” (Matt. 5:9). That concept is wo- first impression was, to say the least, ficial when compared to the over- ven throughout the scriptures, creat- unimpressive. As they walked away, whelming, more significant spiritual ing a patchwork of peace through I thought I could feel his knees begin transformation that took place in parable and proclamation: to buckle. that family as the gospel entered • “Agree with thine adversary” I put my arm around this good their hearts and lives. Through the (Matt. 5:25). bishop to give him my support— instruction of the missionaries and • “Love your enemies” (Matt. physically as well as spiritually. I felt the subsequent fellowshipping of 5:44). prompted to say to him: “Bishop, their good bishop and the ward • “Judge not” (Matt. 7:1). isn’t this wonderful? We will make members, this entire family emerged • “Love thy neighbour as thyself” good Latter-day Saints out of them!” from spiritual darkness into gospel (Matt. 22:39). He looked at me, and he smiled. I light and truth. In that light the fam- • “Condemn not” (Luke 6:37). just couldn’t tell if he was smiling be- ily was warmed, refreshed, and revi- • “Forgive” (Luke 6:37). cause he agreed with me, or if he talized by the peace that comes from • “Love one another” (John thought that I might be just another knowing the Lord Jesus Christ lives. 13:34). overenthusiastic missionary. The light of the gospel truths re- Those are but a few of the scrip- The baptismal service proceeded, stored to earth through the Prophet tural instructions clearly indicat- and the family was baptized. The Joseph Smith began to show this ing that God’s peace is not to be next day, we decided to attend that family the way to the temple, where hoarded. Rather, it is to be shared ward to make sure the family was one year later they received their liberally with our families, our well received when they came to eternal blessings. friends, and our communities. It is their meetings as new members of Again quoting the prophecies of to be shared with the Church as the Church. Isaiah: “And all thy children shall be well as those who are not members As the family came into the chapel taught of the Lord; and great shall of our Church. While those around for sacrament meeting, I was sitting be the peace of thy children” (Isa. us may not choose to taste the on the stand next to the bishop. The 54:13). sweetness and peace of the fulness father was wearing a clean white Once we have tasted the sweet of the restored gospel for them- shirt. It was not large enough for him fruit of God’s peace, we are naturally selves, surely they will be blessed to fasten the top button at the neck, inclined to share it with others. by seeing it in our lives and feeling and he was wearing a tie that I could Francis of Assisi was known as the the peace of the gospel in our pres- remember seeing on one of my el- “lover of creation” who lived most of ence. The message of peace will ders. But his face radiated with hap- his life ministering to the poor and grow and expand through our piness and peace. The mother and the needy who were around him— example. daughters looked like they had been including the animals. The peace he “Live in peace,” said the Apostle transformed from the previous day. found in his service energized him Paul, “and the God of love and Their dresses were not fancy, but and made him yearn to embrace oth- peace shall be with you” (2 Cor. they were clean and lovely. They, ers with it. He wrote: 13:11). too, had that special gospel glow. Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace; I am grateful that I can witness to The little boys wore white shirts that Where there is hatred, let me sow love; you that Jesus is the Christ, and He were several sizes too large for them, Where there is injury, pardon; is the Son of God. By following Him, even with the sleeves rolled up. And Where there is doubt, faith; in faith and trust, all may find the they were wearing ties that almost Where there is despair, hope; sweet inner peace the gospel offers extended down to their knees. It was Where there is darkness, light; to us as it has been taught to us so obvious that the missionaries had And where there is sadness, joy. beautifully during this conference. put their own white shirts and ties O Divine Master, grant that I may not To this I humbly testify in the name on these little boys so they could so much seek of Jesus Christ, amen.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 89 mortal in the most humble of circum- stances. Of the loneliness of His liv- ing He said, “The foxes have holes, WE LOOK TO CHRIST and the birds of the air have nests; President Gordon B. Hinckley but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head” (Matt. 8:20). He “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38). He was a man of miracles. He Like the polar star in the heavens, . . . there stands reached out to those in distress. He the Redeemer of the world, the Son of God, healed the sick and raised the dead. Yet for all of the love He brought into certain and sure as the anchor of our immortal lives. the world, He was “despised and re- jected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: . . . he was de- When I conclude, the choir will sing: spised,” and was esteemed not (Isa. 53:3). Abide with me; ‘tis eventide. We look upon His matchless life The day is past and gone; and say with the prophet Isaiah: The shadows of the evening fall; The night is coming on. “He hath borne our griefs, and Within my heart a welcome guest, carried our sorrows. . . . Within my home abide. “. . . He was wounded for our O Savior, stay this night with me; transgressions, he was bruised for our Behold, ‘tis eventide. iniquities: the chastisement of our (“Abide with Me; ‘Tis Eventide,” peace was upon him; and with his Hymns, no. 165) stripes we are healed” (Isa. 53:4–5). When the great War in Heaven That pretty well sums up the feel- was fought, Lucifer, the son of the ings of our hearts as we return to our morning, came forth with a plan that homes. was rejected. The Father of us all, May the Spirit of our Lord accom- with love for us, His children, offered pany us and remain with us. We a better plan under which we would know not what lies ahead of us. We have freedom to choose the course of y beloved brethren and sis- know not what the coming days will our lives. His Firstborn Son, our Elder ters, I too would like to ex- bring. We live in a world of uncer- Brother, was the key to that plan. press deep appreciation for tainty. For some, there will be great Man would have his agency, and Mthe tremendous service of Sister accomplishment. For others, disap- with that agency would go account- Smoot, Sister Jensen, Sister Dew, and pointment. For some, much of rejoic- ability. Man would walk the ways of their board, who have served so very ing and gladness, good health, and the world and sin and stumble. But faithfully and well in this great and gracious living. For others, perhaps the Son of God would take upon tremendous organization for women. sickness and a measure of sorrow. Himself flesh and offer Himself a sac- It is a marvelous society, 4,900,000 We do not know. But one thing we rifice to atone for the sins of all men. strong. There is nothing like it, I do know. Like the polar star in the Through unspeakable suffering He think, in all the world, and it touches heavens, regardless of what the fu- would become the great Redeemer, for such tremendous good the lives ture holds, there stands the the Savior of all mankind. of women everywhere across the Redeemer of the world, the Son of With some small understanding earth. Thank you, dear sisters, for God, certain and sure as the anchor of that incomparable gift, that mar- what you’ve done. Welcome to you, of our immortal lives. He is the rock velous gift of redemption, we bow in Sister Parkin and your counselors, of our salvation, our strength, our reverent love before Him. and the board which you will select. comfort, the very focus of our faith. As a Church we have critics, We now conclude this great con- In sunshine and in shadow we many of them. They say we do not ference. We have enjoyed a wonder- look to Him, and He is there to as- believe in the traditional Christ of ful feast at the table of the Lord. We sure and smile upon us. Christianity. There is some substance have been instructed in His ways af- He is the central focus of our wor- to what they say. Our faith, our ter His pattern. ship. He is the Son of the living God, knowledge is not based on ancient Each of us should be a little better the Firstborn of the Father, the Only tradition, the creeds which came of a for this rich experience. Otherwise, Begotten in the flesh, who left the finite understanding and out of the our gathering has been largely in vain. royal courts on high to be born as a almost infinite discussions of men

90 trying to arrive at a definition of the GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING risen Christ. Our faith, our knowl- 30 March 2002 edge comes of the witness of a prophet in this dispensation who saw before him the great God of the uni- verse and His Beloved Son, the resur- STANDING IN HOLY PLACES rected Lord Jesus Christ. They spoke Sharon G. Larsen to him. He spoke with Them. He tes- Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency tified openly, unequivocally, and un- abashedly of that great vision. It was a vision of the Almighty and of the Standing in holy places is all about being in good Redeemer of the world, glorious be- yond our understanding but certain company, whether you are alone or with others. and unequivocating in the knowl- edge which it brought. It is out of that knowledge, rooted deep in the soil of modern revelation, that we, in the A holy place is where we feel safe, words of Nephi, “talk of Christ, we secure, loved, and comforted. That’s rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, how it was in our heavenly home. we prophesy of Christ, and we write Standing in holy places and being in according to our prophecies, that [we good company bring feelings of how and] our children may know to what it must have been in that home we source [we] may look for a remission left behind, the home that seems so of [our] sins” (2 Ne. 25:26). far away at times. And so, my brothers and sisters, as Tw o and a half years after the we bid you good-bye for a season, we Church was organized, the Lord repeat our firm and enduring testi- warned Joseph Smith of wars and mony. We do it as individuals with a famines and plagues that would sure and certain knowledge. As I have come because of wickedness. Then said many times before, and as I now He told us how to be safe in such a say again, I know that God our Eternal world: “Stand ye in holy places, and Father lives. He is the great God of the be not moved, until the day of the universe. He is the Father of our spirits Lord come” (D&C 87:8). with whom we may speak in prayer. In holy places we are protected I know that Jesus Christ is His t was Thursday night, Mom and from the almost overwhelming com- Only Begotten Son, the Redeemer of Dad’s regular night to work at the motion of the world. Angels can be the world, who gave His life that we Cardston temple. I was in my our companions and support (see might have eternal life and who rules teens,I like you young women. My D&C 84:88). The great prophet and reigns with His Father. I know grandmother, who was living with Moroni was surrounded by wicked- that They are individual beings, sepa- us, was away, so I would be home ness and the Lamanites waiting to rate and distinct one from another alone. As they left, Dad hugged me kill anything in their path. He was and yet alike in form and substance and said, “Now, Sharon, be in good alone in hiding for almost 20 years. and purpose. I know that it is the company.” Imagine that kind of loneliness! Yet work of the Almighty “to bring to pass I thought, “What is he thinking? his exquisite testimony and counsel the immortality and eternal life of Doesn’t he know I’ll be here by my- in the last few chapters of the Book man” (Moses 1:39). I know that Joseph self?” And then I realized—that is ex- of Mormon tell us he was in the Smith was a prophet, the great actly what he was thinking. company of angels and the Holy Prophet of this dispensation through Standing in holy places is all Ghost. He was not alone. The Holy whom these truths have come. I know about being in good company, Ghost can take away the gnawing, that this Church is the work of God, whether you are alone or with oth- aching feeling of loneliness or isola- presided over and directed by Jesus ers. It’s being where the Holy Ghost tion or rejection and fill us with Christ, whose holy name it bears. is our companion—alone or in a peace. He is called the Comforter— Of these things I testify in solem- crowd. When we determine within and He is that! nity as I leave with you, my beloved ourselves that we will control our It is possible the loneliest times associates, my love and blessing, in thoughts and our actions and be the are when we are surrounded by peo- the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. best we can possibly be, the best of ple, even friends, who are making God be with you ‘til we meet again. life will come to us. wrong choices, and we have to stand

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 91 When you were baptized, you made covenants to keep the com- mandments. Those covenants and the blessing of always having the Spirit of the Lord with you are re- newed each time you worthily partake of the sacrament. It will strengthen you in the face of temptation. Our daughter brought treats to sacrament meeting to pacify her three little boys. As the sacred em- blems of bread were passed down our row, Jake, then three, whispered in my ear: “Tell them we don’t need that bread. We brought our own treats.” To a three-year-old, all he saw was pieces of bread, and he thought he had something better. Identifying what is holy and educat- ing our desires for that is vital to our happiness. A magnificent sunset or star-studded sky, a rose dripping An usher admits members to the general Young Women meeting on 30 March. with dew, or a baby kitten—all re- mind us once more that the things alone. There are some places it the temple. It was like the Lord was of God are holy. would not be safe for you to go even reassuring me that I was doing the Holy places can be wherever to help someone in need. The Lord right thing” (used by permission; you are—alone, in a crowd, with said to stand in holy places. There name has been changed). strangers, with friends. The road are places where the Spirit would Standing in holy places helps us to Jericho was treacherous and never be. You know where those to become holy, but that is an ac- formidable. Thieves infiltrated the places are. Stay away from them. Do quired virtue that takes practice. bushes and trees waiting to ambush not encourage a curiosity that ought Practice listening to the Spirit and any traveler. It took a kind and to be stopped. Pay attention to what being obedient. Practice being courageous Samaritan to change that you are feeling so you will know morally pure. Practice being reverent road from a haunted place to a holy when you are feeling unsure or about sacred things. The Lord has place. There are things you can do to uneasy. told us to come unto Him and He bring holiness to ordinary places: Heather told us about a time she can make us holy (see D&C 60:7). Let when you spend an afternoon with had been invited to a party with the Him envelop you in love and for- small children so a tired mother can “popular” people of the school. As giveness and peace. Regardless of rest, when you do the dishes for she walked in the door, the music what is going on around you, you your brother even though it’s his that was blasting through the house can practice creating an environment turn, when you clean house for an hit her spirit. She felt sick inside. of your own, filled with the Spirit of elderly friend—these things bring Then friends started disappearing the Lord. feelings of selflessness and sacrifice into darkened rooms. Heather said: Instead of asking someone else and holiness. “A t the party I soon realized I had to how short or tight or bare or reveal- There will be times when the make a choice: either these people or ing your clothes can be, you are re- Spirit will whisper that you can my standards. I couldn’t have both. I sponsible and you ask yourself, make the place where you are better. knew I did not want the words I was “What can I wear? How should I The Russian town of Omsk in Siberia hearing or the movie scenes to con- look and act so the Holy Ghost can appeared to me to be rather cold and taminate my thoughts, no matter be with me and Heavenly Father can barren until I heard a group of how popular these people were. I bless me?” young women and young men knew I did not belong there. As I It is difficult to train your desires singing “How Great Thou Art” was waiting for my mother to come to want goodness and beauty when (Hymns, no. 86) in their native lan- and get me, I looked out the window the opposite confronts you con- guage. Suddenly the whole world— in the darkened night, and there stantly and appears to be so much or at least our world—became warm shining on the hill like a beacon was more enticing and fun and popular. and loving and joyful, a holy place.

92 Young Women banners greet members arriving at the Conference Center for the general Young Women meeting.

There is a great wealth of intelli- oratorio many times, but during one righteousness, regardless of shallow gence and guidance and safety particular practice, the Spirit told me enticements and evils and designs of available to you through regular, that I was not only singing notes, I conspiring people (see D&C 89:4) thoughtful prayer and scripture was singing my testimony: “Surely, and media. In the words of President study. This keeps your minds firm he hath borne our griefs, and carried Hinckley, “Stand a little higher and and steadfast in holy places as you our sorrows” (Isa. 53:4). I knew with let the nobility of good character walk the halls at school or shop all my soul that He had done that for shine through [your] lives” (“A Time for clothing or surf the Internet. me. For a moment the 300 other of New Beginnings,” Ensign, May President James E. Faust said, “I be- voices became a whisper and I felt 2000, 88). My dear young women, in- lieve reading the scriptures is the best like I was all alone with the Lord. I vite the Lord to walk with you. Let washing machine for unclean or un- felt His love and reassurance that He Him be your companion all of your controlled thoughts” (“The Power of had carried the griefs and the sor- life, every day of your life, so you Self-Mastery,” Ensign, May 2000, 44). rows of my teenage heart, and can return to that home you long for, Holiness is quiet and gentle, easily through my obedience, He would the holiest place of all. missed if we aren’t paying attention. continue to walk with me for the rest I close with a hymn echoing my The resurrected Lord walked to of my life. To feel that blessing and prayer for you and for me: Emmaus with two men who were comfort and complete love from the so caught up in the events of His Lord is worth any price. More purity give me, More strength to o’ercome, Crucifixion and Resurrection that Once you understand what holy More freedom from earth-stains, they did not know it was the Lord places are, then you know where More longing for home. Himself who was their walking to be. It may take sacrifice of our More fit for the kingdom, companion. worldly tastes or popularity. It may More used would I be, Years ago I was singing Handel’s require humility and forgiveness or More blessed and holy— Messiah with a group of people from complete repentance. It does require More, Savior, like thee. different faiths. Even though our “clean hands, and a pure heart” (Ps. (“More Holiness Give Me,” Hymns, beliefs were different, we were all 24:4). Do whatever you have to do to no. 131) singing about the same Messiah, our be able to stand in holy places and be own personal Savior. I had sung this not moved, to stand for truth and In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 93 love each other. Are we doing this in our families? The Savior Himself taught us to STRENGTHEN HOME nurture. Many times He said, “How oft have I gathered you as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and have nourished you” AND FAMILY (3 Ne. 10:4). Carol B. Thomas As you gather together in your First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency family, you can do so much to invite a spirit of unity. When was the last time you put your arms around your Three principles that will help you strengthen your mom or dad and thanked them for home and family are nurturing, sacrifice, and prayer. all they do? Parents do most of the nurturing, but they need to be nur- tured too. As women, we can gather our lit- tle chickens under our wings with may have great athletic ability, but love and tenderness. Recently I all of you have been blessed with watched a young mother talk to her many talents and gifts. One of the two-year-old child. When she was most meaningful gifts is your ability crying and the mother couldn’t un- to “strengthen [your] home and derstand what she wanted, the family,” a new phrase which has mother said, “Don’t cry. Use your been added to the Young Women words. Tell me what’s bothering theme. Do you recognize these you.” She had shown such respect words? One of the assignments for this two-year-old baby that the given us as girls and women in the baby stopped crying and “used her kingdom is to love and strengthen words.” This young mother is learn- our families. ing how to nurture. Tonight it is my prayer that the When our Father in Heaven in- Spirit will burn within you, that troduced the Savior to the world, you will have a greater desire to He demonstrated good nurturing strengthen your family now and by using a soft voice. The language prepare for your future family. The of the scripture says, “They heard a scriptures are filled with ways to voice as if it came out of heaven; . . . s we watched the 2002 Winter teach us how to strengthen our fami- and it was not a harsh voice, neither Olympics draw to a close, we lies. There is no greater teacher than was it a loud voice; . . . notwith- couldn’t help but remember the Savior. As you study His teach- standing it being a small voice it did thoseA individuals who took home ings and follow His example, you pierce them that did hear to the the gold. So many athletes with can make your family life better. center” (3 Ne. 11:3). years of preparation came together Let’s talk about three principles that In our homes, this can be a to compete, hoping to win. As young will help you strengthen your home model for the way we talk to our women in the Church, you too are and family: family members. Let us not use a preparing and competing for a • Nurturing loud voice but a soft voice when we medallion as the Spirit burns • Sacrifice talk to those we love. This is the brightly within you. • Prayer way Heavenly Father speaks to His The Young Women program can children. provide a wonderful training ground NURTURING to help each of you reach your goals, SACRIFICE and the Young Women theme is a Who doesn’t enjoy playing with a constant reminder that we are not small child or holding a newborn The second principle is sacrifice. alone in the competition. We are on baby in their arms? As women, we As young women, you are learning the Lord’s team, and He will always were born with a natural ability to to sacrifice every day. We are so im- be there for us to help us bring home love and nurture others. To nurture pressed with all the good things you the gold. means to support each other, to en- are doing: As daughters of God, some of you courage each other, to nourish and •You tend after school when your

94 mothers need to work. You help fix dinner and put babies to bed. •You stay home from parties on weekends because you won’t watch inappropriate movies regardless of the rating. •Thousands of you get up at five o’clock each morning to attend early- morning seminary before going off to school. The Savior is so proud of you. He knows what you’re going through. He understands how hard it is for you to make sacrifices. The Savior taught us to sacrifice. He sacrificed His life for all mankind. After He was resurrected, the first thing He taught the Nephites was how He had sacrificed. He said: “I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me. . . . I have suffered the will of the Father in all things” (3 Ne. 11:11). He had done what Heavenly Father wanted Him to do. Heavenly Father wants us to cre- ate a righteous family. Becoming a wife and mother may limit your ca- reer opportunities, but it can be so rewarding. As a young mother, I re- member playing a song for my little family, prayer must be a consistent, of the Lord and develop a stronger girls while they danced around the daily part of your life. Prayer will testimony of prayer. room. It may sound a little silly, but it protect you from the adversary, give Our prophets have said that says it all: you peace, and help your families they don’t worry about the youth love each other more. who pray twice a day. Now, if they When I grow up, I want to be a mother When the Savior visited the don’t worry about us, then we and have a family: Nephites, He had only a few days don’t need to worry about our- one little, two little, three little babies of to teach them the fulness of the selves, as long as we sincerely my own. gospel. During much of that time, pray twice a day. Of all the jobs for me, I’ll choose no other. He focused on prayer. Did you Listen to a wonderful story by I’ll have a family. . . . And I will love them all day long know that in chapters 17 through 20 the mother of the Prophet Joseph and give them cookies and milk and of Third Nephi, prayer is mentioned Smith about the night he went to yellow balloons, about 44 times? Many times He get the gold plates. She writes: And cuddle them when things go wrong, commanded the people to pray. He “[That night] I sat up very late. . . . and read them stories and sing them knelt on the ground and prayed for About twelve o’clock Joseph came pretty tunes. them. He taught them how to pray. to me and asked me if I had a chest (Janeen Brady, “I Want to Be a He blessed the little children and with a lock and key. . . . And not Mother,” in Beloved Songs [1987], 10–13) prayed unto the Father for them. He having one I was greatly alarmed. commanded them to always pray in . . . But Joseph . . . said, ‘Never Well, you get the idea. Being a their hearts. mind, I can do very well . . . with- mother is a great blessing, not a Perhaps during a Mutual activity out it—be calm—all is right.’ ” sacrifice. you could bring your scriptures, read Shortly after, Joseph and Emma those four chapters aloud, and un- left, taking a horse and wagon. PRAYER derline when the word prayer is Now listen to what his mother says: mentioned—sharing stories and tes- “I spent the night in prayer and Third, the Savior teaches us to pray. timonies on the power of prayer. I supplication to God, for the anxiety As you help strengthen your promise that you will feel the Spirit of my mind would not permit me

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 95 to sleep.” The pleadings of a mother, a righteous daughter of God, comforted the Prophet and protected the gold plates. Over the HOLD HIGH THE TORCH years, her constant prayers helped Margaret D. Nadauld strengthen her home and family Young Women General President (see Lucy Mack Smith, History of Joseph Smith, ed. Preston Nibley [1979], 102). How can you use prayer to Develop the divinity that is within you. Don’t dull strengthen your family? Because the brightness of the spirit you came with from Heavenly Father loves you so, He wants you to talk to Him. Whatever heaven. The Lord needs your goodness and struggles you may have, you can your influence in this world. pray about anything: • You can pray for help in keep- ing family rules, such as coming home on time. • You can pray that your family you carry within your soul is inher- will have a desire to study the scrip- ited from God because you are His tures together. daughter. Part of the light which • You can pray that you will have makes you so magnificent is the better communication with your blessing of womanhood. What a mom or your dad. wonderful thing it is for you to know • You can pray that you will be that your female, feminine character- more patient with a sister or brother, istics are an endowment from God. helping them solve their problems. Our latter-day prophets teach that Pray over problems that worry “gender is an essential characteristic you! Don’t give up. Heavenly of individual premortal, mortal, and Father can and will answer your eternal identity and purpose.”2 It is a prayers. I have had many prayers holy blessing to be born with the that have been answered. I also exquisite qualities of a daughter of have prayers that have not been God. Women of God, both old and answered yet. Our prayers will be young, are spiritual and sensitive, answered in the Lord’s time when tender and gentle. They have a kind, we are ready. nurturing nature. This is your inheri- Tonight I have talked about three his is a torch that carried the tance. Never belittle the gifts God principles to help you strengthen Olympic flame on part of its has given to you. Develop the divin- your home and family: journey from Greece to Salt ity that is within you. Don’t dull the • Nurturing TLake City last February. It is symbolic brightness of the spirit you came • Sacrifice of excellence and hope. It was lit for with from heaven. The Lord needs • Prayer the first time in Greece at the birth of your goodness and your influence in The Savior, our Redeemer and the Olympics so long ago. this world. friend, has shown us the way. As This is the Young Women torch. It And so tonight I’d just like to talk you practice His teachings, you is symbolic of the light of the gospel to you from my heart about simply may never win the Olympic silver which comes from our Heavenly being good and the advantages of or gold, but earning your Young Father. This light had its beginning in being good. It’s about holding that Womanhood medallion can bring a heaven before you were born. There torch high. much greater reward and help you were taught the great plan of The world will try to make you keep the fire of the Holy Ghost happiness, and because you ac- think that being good is outdated burning brightly within each one cepted this plan, you have the and old-fashioned and that popular- of you. As you study and develop a honor of being a torchbearer! ity comes from breaking the rules love for the scriptures, I pray that The Savior taught us to “let your and lowering your standards. Don’t you will find other meaningful light so shine before men, that they buy into that way of thinking. As ways to strengthen your home and may see your good works, and you watch TV or read magazines, family. In the name of Jesus Christ, glorify your Father which is in you might be made to feel abnormal amen. heaven.”1 The divine light which when, really, you are the one

96 who has it figured out. You may know that I am the mother of seven sons. I know boys! It has been an exciting life at our house! I’ve learned a lot from them and from their friends, both boys and girls, and I could tell you a few of their secrets. Maybe I could just share one and hope that I won’t get in trouble. This is it: boys hate to be embarrassed. I remember the time a young man I know had a date for the prom. He brought her to our house before the dance so we could take pictures. When they got there he came into the kitchen, where I was looking for the camera, and said: “Wait until you see my date’s dress. She looks so beautiful!” This boy had never said anything like that before so I could hardly wait to see what he meant. When I saw her I understood; she was lovely. The dress she was wear- ing was beautiful; I learned that she and her mother had searched every- where for it. When they finally found this dress, they knew it would be perfect with some added fabric and finishing touches to meet their There are so many of you who are know that even if you make foolish high standards. like that, and I salute you tonight. mistakes, He will help you if you All their efforts were rewarded You have made modesty your way of turn to Him. because she was absolutely radiant life. It is more than how you dress. It You act like you have memorized this night, but it was more than the includes at least six things that I can For the Strength of Youth! Isn’t that a dress that made her shine. It was her think of: (1) your behavior is decent great little guide? Sometimes I like to quiet confidence. As I looked at her, I and modest, and yet you are very call it “helps for happiness” because was reminded of the scripture, “Let fun to be with; (2) your language is living these standards can be your virtue garnish thy thoughts unceas- never crude but happy and interest- secret weapon for attracting good ingly; then shall thy confidence wax ing; (3) you are well groomed, and people to you and keeping you on strong.”3 Where did this confidence that is appealing; (4) you are focused the right track. When you live the that she had come from? I noticed on developing your talents and high standards of the Church every that this young woman could focus achieving your goals, not piercing day, you hold high the torch. on others because she was not wor- and tattooing and flaunting your A girl I will call Liz is an example ried about how she looked. She had body; (5) you play sports with gusto of what I am talking about. She was taken care of that detail weeks be- but never lose control; (6) you don’t a student in a math class with a girl I fore. The young man she was with seem to care about what the latest will call Lindsay, who noticed that felt comfortable and safe and happy pop star wears or does because you there was just something about Liz when he was with her because her have a certain style of your own. In that “glowed,” as she put it. Lindsay dress was not revealing. It was mod- summary, you do not imitate the admitted that she really didn’t think est in every way, and this made her world’s standards because you know Liz knew her, but she still made her confident and happy. And that’s ap- a higher standard. You know who feel good. She really stood up for pealing. He wasn’t embarrassed by you are, and that puts you at a real what she believed, and she always her; he was proud of her. advantage. You know that you really made others feel good and included. The kind of young woman who are a daughter of Heavenly Father. For several weeks Lindsay observed can be a terrific torchbearer has high You know that He knows you and Liz. Then one day, Liz didn’t show standards all the time, not just in her that He loves you; you want to please up at school. Then another and then prom dress, but every, ordinary day. Him and honor His love for you. You another passed. Lindsay finally

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 97 as ever. But even more important spoken. It is designed just for you at than this, the experience brought the this very important period of prepa- most remarkable spirit of hope into ration, for the patterns you set and Lindsay’s home. Because of it, some the choices you make now will affect serious changes have taken place in the rest of your life. It is our prayer their family. They are now having that as you complete your Personal family prayer together, something Progress, your light will shine so that had not happened for years. brightly that it will be an influence Liz’s goodness glowed, and it was for good on generations to come. For catching. Liz, if you are here tonight, these reasons and more, the First I would just like to say, “Thank you! Presidency has said: “We desire all By your goodness you have blessed young women to strive to earn the at least one whole family whom you Young Womanhood Recognition. As probably do not even know. And youth work on these goals, they will who knows how many others have develop skills and attributes that will been guided as you held high your lead them to the temple and prepare torch.” them for a lifetime of service to their Being good makes you feel good, families and the Lord.”5 The beauti- and it also makes others feel good! ful new Young Womanhood medal- Can I just tell you this—it is so much lion depicts temple spires reminding easier to do what is right than it is to you that you are preparing to receive do what is wrong. Life is so much the ordinances of the temple, for it is less complicated when you are good. through the temple that we come to The greatest advantage of being Christ. good is that it will lead you to the We are especially thinking of temple, the most beautiful and sa- Christ on this Easter eve. More than cred of all the places on this earth. 2,000 years ago on this eve, as His The temple is the place the Savior body was in the tomb, some believed could visit because it is His holy that the light had gone out. But we house here on earth. know that on the morning of the President Lorenzo Snow’s grand- third day, which we call Easter, He daughter was in the temple with him arose to be our salvation, our Savior, on one occasion when President our eternal light that will never fail Snow said to her, “ ‘Allie[,] I want to us. I testify that Christ is the light learned that Liz was very ill with tell you something. . . . It was right and the life of the world. life-threatening meningitis. here that the Lord Jesus Christ ap- Dear young women, let your light She came home from school and peared to me.’ [Grandfather] put his shine so brightly before all of your just sat at the table crying. It wasn’t right hand on [my] head and said, family and friends that they may see like she and Liz were close friends, ‘Now granddaughter, I want you to your good works and glorify your but she said to her mom that they remember that this is the testimony Father who is in heaven. It is a privi- just had to do something to help her. of your grandfather, that he told you lege to carry the torch. It is our Lindsay suggested that perhaps their with his own lips that he actually prayer that His light will shine on whole family could fast and pray for saw the Savior, here in the temple, your path every step along your way Liz. What a shock it was for the and talked with him face to face.’ ”4 and that your goodness will qualify mother to hear that coming from one Can you imagine the reverence you to one day receive the ordi- of her own children, because fasting you would feel to walk the same nances of the temple, for it is in that and prayer had not been mentioned halls the Savior walked? Do you pic- holy place that you will find the in their home for years. When ture yourself there, pure and clean, a greatest light of all, in the name of Lindsay and her mom talked with daughter of God, prepared to receive Jesus Christ, amen. the rest of the family about it that His finest blessings? NOTES night at supper, there was some re- Personal Progress will help you in 1. Matt. 5:16. 2. The Family: A Proclamation to the sistance, but Lindsay pleaded with your preparation for the temple. It is World, Ensign, Oct. 1995, 102. them and finally they all agreed to inspired of heaven. What a beautiful 3. D&C 121:45. fast and pray for Liz, a stranger. The little treasure it is. It will help you 4. Quoted in Susan Arrington Madsen, “Lorenzo Snow and the Sacred Vision,” Friend, most wonderful thing happened. It draw closer to the Savior, and it will Aug. 1993, 14. wasn’t long before Liz returned to help you magnify the divine gifts of 5. First Presidency letter on strengthening school appearing healthy and happy womanhood of which we have youth, 28 Sept. 2001.

98 repent of our sins and turn to the Lord.”4 In speaking to young men of the PATHWAYS TO PERFECTION Aaronic Priesthood, I have fre- President Thomas S. Monson quently quoted the advice of a father First Counselor in the First Presidency to a precious son: “If you ever find yourself where you hadn’t ought to be—then get out!” The same truth is applicable to you young women Exemplify in your lives four tested, specific virtues: here in the Conference Center and to an attitude of gratitude, a longing for learning, you assembled in meetinghouses throughout the world. a devotion to discipline, and a willingness to work. I have always felt that if we speak in generalities, we rarely have suc- cess; but if we speak in specifics, we will rarely have a failure. Therefore, I two paths before her, each stretching urge that you exemplify in your lives onward but in opposite directions. four tested, specific virtues. They are: She is confronted by the Cheshire 1. An attitude of gratitude, Cat, of whom she asks, “Which path 2. A longing for learning, shall I take?” 3. A devotion to discipline, and The cat answers: “That depends 4. A willingness to work. where you want to go. If you do First, an attitude of gratitude. In not know where you want to go, it the book of Luke, chapter 17, we doesn’t really matter which path read the account of the 10 lepers. you take!”2 The Savior, in traveling toward Unlike Alice, each of you knows Jerusalem, passed through Galilee where you want to go. It does matter and Samaria and entered a certain which way you go, for the path you village where He was met on the follow in this life leads to the path outskirts by 10 lepers who were you will follow in the next. forced, because of their condition, to A lilting ballad, popular many live apart from others. They stood years ago, contains the provocative “afar off” and cried, “Jesus, Master, line, “If wishing can make it so, then have mercy on us.” ur Young Women presidency keep on wishing and cares will go.” The Savior, full of sympathy and have done so well, haven’t Another formula for failure comes love for them, said, “Go shew your- they? I sustain and endorse from the more recent song, “Don’t selves unto the priests,” and as they Oall that you have heard from these worry; be happy!” went they discovered that they were splendid women today. They are Our theme for this evening, healed. The scriptures tell us, “One truly servants of our Heavenly “Stand Ye in Holy Places,” is more of them, when he saw that he was Father and have presented His holy appropriate. I also appreciate the healed, turned back, and with a loud word. words which follow: “Stand ye in voice glorified God, and fell down “Happiness,” the Prophet Joseph holy places, and be not moved.”3 on his face at [the Master’s] feet, giv- Smith wrote, “is the object and de- President George Albert Smith, ing him thanks: and he was a sign of our existence; and will be the eighth President of the Church, Samaritan.” end thereof, if we pursue the path urged: “Let us plant our feet upon The Savior responded, “Were that leads to it; and this path is the highway that leads to happiness there not ten cleansed? but where virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, ho- and the celestial kingdom, not just are the nine? There are not found liness, and keeping all the command- occasionally, but every day, and ev- that returned to give glory to God, ments of God.”1 ery hour, because if we will stay on save this stranger. And he said unto But how does one find that path- the Lord’s side of the line, if we will him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith way, and what’s more, how does one remain under the influence of our hath made thee whole.”5 stay on that pathway which leads to Heavenly Father, the adversary can- Through divine intervention, perfection? not even tempt us. But if we go into those who were lepers were spared In Lewis Carroll’s classic Alice’s the devil’s territory . . . we will be from a cruel, lingering death and Adventures in Wonderland, Alice finds unhappy and that unhappiness will given a new lease on life. The grati- herself coming to a crossroads with increase as the years go by, unless we tude expressed by one merited the

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 99 weave their magic spell; where growth and learning, the soaring of the imagination, and the spirit of the young are assured.”10 Third, may we discuss a devotion to discipline. Our Heavenly Father has given to each of us the power to think and reason and decide. With such power, self-discipline becomes a necessity. Each of us has the responsibility to choose. You may ask, “Are deci- sions really that important?” I say to you, decisions determine destiny. You can’t make eternal decisions without eternal consequences. May I provide a simple formula Master’s blessing, the ingratitude by sight and in the sight of your by which you can measure the the nine His disappointment. Heavenly Father. He hears your choices which confront you. It’s easy Like the leprosy of yesteryear are prayers. He extends to you His peace to remember: “You can’t be right by the plagues of today. They linger; and His love. Stay close to Him and doing wrong; you can’t be wrong by they debilitate; they destroy. They to His Son, and you will not walk doing right.” Your personal con- are to be found everywhere. Their alone. science always warns you as a friend pervasiveness knows no boundaries. Second, a longing for learning. before it punishes you as a judge. We know them as selfishness, greed, The Apostle Paul said to Timothy, The Lord, in a revelation given indulgence, cruelty, and crime—to “Let no man despise thy youth; through Joseph Smith the Prophet, identify but a few. but be thou an example of the counseled: “That which doth not ed- At a regional conference, believers.”7 ify is not of God, and is darkness. President Gordon B. Hinckley de- President Stephen L Richards, That which is of God is light.”11 clared: “We live in a world of so who was a counselor in the First Some foolish persons turn their much filth. It is everywhere. It is on Presidency many years ago, was a backs on the wisdom of God and fol- the streets. It is on television. It is in profound thinker. He said, “Faith low the allurement of fickle fashion, books and magazines. . . . It is like and doubt cannot exist in the same the attraction of false popularity, and a great flood, ugly and dirty and mind at the same time, for one will the thrill of the moment. Courage is mean, engulfing the world. We have dispel the other.” My advice is to required to think right, choose right, got to stand above it. . . . The world is seek faith and dispel doubt. and do right, for such a course will slipping in its moral standards. That The Lord counseled, “Seek ye out rarely, if ever, be the easiest to follow. can only bring misery. The way to of the best books words of wisdom; The battle for self-discipline happiness lies in a return to strong seek learning, even by study and may leave you a bit bruised and family life and the observance of also by faith.”8 battered but always a better person. moral standards, the value of which We can find truth in the scrip- Self-discipline is a rigorous process has been proven through centuries tures, the teachings of the prophets, at best; too many of us want it to be of time.”6 the instructions from our parents, effortless and painless. Should tem- By following President Hinckley’s and the inspiration that comes to us porary setbacks afflict us, a very counsel, we can make this a wonder- as we bend our knees and seek the significant part of our struggle for ful time to be living here on earth. help of God. self-discipline is the determination Our opportunities are limitless. We must be true to our ideals, for and the courage to try again. There are so many things right— ideals are like the stars: you can’t My dear young sisters, I know of such as teachers who teach, friends touch them with your hands, but no truer description of you than that who help, marriages that make it, by following them you reach your expressed by the First Presidency on and parents who sacrifice. destination.9 April 6, 1942: “How glorious and Be grateful for your mother, for Many of your teachers are assem- near to the angels is youth that is your father, for your family, and for bled with you this evening. I trust clean; this youth has joy unspeak- your friends. Express gratitude for that each teacher would fit the de- able here and eternal happiness your Young Women teachers. They scription written of one: “She created hereafter.”12 love you; they pray for you; they in her classroom an atmosphere Eternal life in the kingdom of our serve you. You are precious in their where warmth and acceptance Father is your goal, and self-discipline

100 will surely be required if you are to those who lived in that area of and so precious to her.” Then, under achieve it. Germany had lost nearly all of the approving smile of her dear Finally, let each of us cultivate their freedoms. Activities of youth mother, she handed to me a small a willingness to work. President were restricted; all actions were box. As I opened the lid of the box, J. Reuben Clark, many years ago monitored. there I beheld the other stick of gum, a counselor in the First Presidency, Shortly after I assumed my re- still with its wrapper after nearly 20 said: “I believe that we are here to sponsibilities for that area, I attended years. And then she said, “My mother work, and I believe there is no escape a most uplifting conference held in and I want you to have this,” she said. from it. I think that we cannot get that part of Germany. Following the The tears flowed; embraces that thought into our souls and into inspirational songs and the spoken followed. our beings too soon. Work we must, word, I felt the impression to meet The mother then spoke to me: if we shall succeed or if we shall ad- briefly outside of the old building “Before you came to our conference vance. There is no other way.”13 with the precious teenage youth. so many years ago, I had prayed to “Put your shoulder to the wheel, They were relatively few in number my Heavenly Father to know that push along”14 is more than a line but listened to every word I spoke. He indeed cared about me. I saved from a favorite hymn; it is a sum- They had hungered for the word that gift so that I might remember mons to work. and encouragement of an Apostle and teach my daughter that Perhaps an example would be of the Lord. Heavenly Father does hear our helpful. Procrastination is truly a Prior to attending the conference, prayers.” thief of time—especially when it before leaving the United States, I I hold before you tonight that comes to downright hard work. I felt the prompting to buy three car- gift—even a symbol of faith and as- speak of the need to study diligently tons of chewing gum. I purchased surance of the heavenly help our as you prepare for the tests of school three flavors: Doublemint, Spear- Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, will and, indeed, the tests of life. mint, and Juicy Fruit. Now, as the provide you. I know of a university student gathering of the youth was con- On this Easter eve, may our who was so busy with the joys of cluded, I distributed carefully to each thoughts turn to Him who atoned for student life that preparation for an youth two sticks of gum—something our sins, who showed us the way to exam was postponed. The night be- they had never before tasted. They live, how to pray, and who demon- fore, she realized the hour was late received the gift with joy. strated by His own actions how we and the preparation was not done. The years went by. I returned to might do so. Born in a stable, cradled She rationalized, “Now what is more Dresden—the site of our earlier con- in a manger, this Son of God—even important—my health, which re- ference. Now we had chapels; now Jesus Christ the Lord—beckons to quires that I must sleep, or the the people had freedom. They had a each of us to follow Him. “Oh, sweet drudgery of study?” Well, you can temple. Germany was no longer sep- the joy this sentence gives: ‘I know probably guess the outcome. Sleep arated by political boundaries but that my Redeemer lives!’ ”15 In the won, study failed, and the test was a had become one nation. The youth name of Jesus Christ, amen. personal disaster. Work we must. were now adults with children of This, then, is the suggested their own. NOTES 1. Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, ed. formula: Following a large and inspira- Joseph Fielding Smith (1970), 255–56. 1. An attitude of gratitude, tional conference, a mother and her 2. Adapted from Lewis Carroll, Alice’s 2. A longing for learning, daughter sought me out to speak to Adventures in Wonderland (1992), 76. 3. A devotion to discipline, and me. The daughter, who was about 3. D&C 87:8; emphasis added. 4. In Conference Report, Apr. 1944, 31–32. 4. A willingness to work. your age and who spoke some 5. Luke 17:11–19. There will come into every life English, said to me, “President 6. Berlin Germany Regional Conference, moments of despair and the need for Monson, do you remember long ago 16 June 1996. 7. 1 Tim. 4:12. direction from a divine source—even holding a brief gathering of youth 8. D&C 88:118. an unspoken plea for help. With all following a district conference, 9. See Carl Schurz, 1859, in John Bartlett, my heart and soul I testify to you where you gave to each boy and comp., Familiar Quotations, 15th ed. (1980), 602. 10. From Grand Street Boys Club and that our Heavenly Father loves you, each girl two sticks of chewing Foundation, quoted in the New York Times. is mindful of you, and will not aban- gum?” 11. D&C 50:23–24. don you. I responded, “Oh, yes, I surely do 12. In James R. Clark, comp., Messages of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Let me illustrate with a personal remember.” Latter-day Saints, 6 vols. (1965–75), 6:150. and treasured experience. For many She continued, “My mother was 13. J. Reuben Clark Jr., Work—Work Always! years my assignments took me into one to whom you gave that gift. She BYU Speeches of the Year (25 May 1960), 4. that part of Germany which was told me that she rationed in little 14. Will L. Thompson, “Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel,” Hymns, no. 252. behind what was called the Iron pieces one stick of gum. She men- 15. Samuel Medley, “I Know That My Curtain. Under Communist control, tioned how sweet to the taste it was Redeemer Lives,” Hymns, no. 136.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 101 9. Finding and Feeding the Lord’s 10. Receiving the Blessings of the Lost Sheep Te mple Luke 10:25–37; Eph. 2:19; Alma Ps. 24:3–5; D&C 109:12–23; Teachings for Our Time, 2002 31:34–35; D&C 18:15–16. 110:6–10. elchizedek Priesthood and “Baptism, a Continuing Thomas S. Monson, “Your Boyd K. Packer, “The Holy Relief Society meetings on Covenant,” lesson 29 in Duties and Eternal Voyage,” Ensign, May Te mple,” Ensign, Feb. 1995, 32–37. Mfourth Sundays are to be devoted Blessings of the Priesthood, Part A, 2000, 46–48. Russell M. Nelson, “Personal to “Teachings for Our Time.” Each 215–22. Henry B. Eyring, “‘Watch with Preparation for Temple Blessings,” Me,’” Ensign, May 2001, 38–40. Ensign, May 2001, 32–34. year the First Presidency deter- 4. Finding Joy and Peace through “Fellowshipping: A Priesthood “Our Temple and Family mines 10 subjects with designated the Atonement Responsibility,” lesson 10 in Duties History Responsibilities,” lesson 8 resource materials to be used in Isa. 1:16–20; 2 Ne. 9:18–21; Alma these meetings. Following are the and Blessings of the Priesthood, Part in Duties and Blessings of the 34:14–16; 38:8–9; D&C 18:10–13. B, 88–93. Priesthood, Part B, 68–78. subjects and designated resources Boyd K. Packer, “‘The Touch of for 2002. Two additional subjects the Master’s Hand,’” Ensign, May are to be selected by stake or dis- 2001, 22–24. trict presidencies. Richard G. Scott, “The Path to Discussions in fourth-Sunday Peace and Joy,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, Home, Family, and meetings should be based on one 25–27. or perhaps two of the designated “Repentance,” chapter 19 in Personal Enrichment Meetings* resources that best address the Gospel Principles, 122–27. hen planning home, family, and personal enrichment meetings, needs and circumstances of quo- 5. Developing a Testimony of carefully assess the needs of the sisters. When applicable, make rum or class members; teachers Gospel Truths Wcertain these meetings include classes that help develop skills in parent- need not use all of the resources. John 7:17; Alma 5:44–46; ing and family relations. The Family Guidebook (31180) and Marriage and Leaders and instructors are en- 32:27–28; Ether 12:6; Moro. 10:4–5; Family Relations Instructor’s Manual (35865) may be used as resources. couraged to make these meetings D&C 6:20–23. These are available through Church distribution centers. discussions, not lectures or pre- James E. Faust, “A Growing sentations. They should consider Testimony,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, PRESENTATIONS IDEAS FOR MINICLASS SUBJECTS** ways to stimulate quorum and 53–54, 59. class members to apply the princi- Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Pure Spiritual Development • Temple worship ples of the discussion. Suggestions Testimony,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, (D&C 88:63) • Personal prayer and scripture study on preparing and conducting 22–24. • Sabbath-day observance (D&C 59) quorum or class discussions are “A Testimony of the Gospel of Homemaking Skills • Growing, cooking, and preserving Jesus Christ,” lesson 26 in Duties found in Teaching, No Greater Call (Prov. 31:27) food អ and Blessings of the Priesthood, Part and the Teaching Guidebook. • Home organization and cleaning A, 192–97. 1. Jesus of Nazareth, Savior and • The value of work King 6. Providing Children with an Marriage and Family Relations • “The Family: A Proclamation to Matt. 1:18–21; Acts 4:8–12; 3 Ne. Inheritance of Faith (Mosiah 4:15; Mal. 4:6) the World” (Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102) 11:7–17. Prov. 22:6; Matt. 5:13–16; Titus • Family home evening, family “Special Witnesses of Christ,” 2:1–8; 1 Ne. 1:1; D&C 68:25–28. Ensign, Apr. 2001, 2–21 (optional Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Prophet’s prayer, and scripture study video, Special Witnesses of Christ, Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” • Parenting skills item no. 53584). Ensign, Jan. 2001, 2–11. Strengthening Relationships • Communication and resolving Russell M. Nelson, “Jesus the David B. Haight, “Be a Strong (Matt. 5:38–44; 25:40) conflicts Christ, Our Master and More,” Link,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 19–21. • Repentance and forgiveness Ensign, Apr. 2000, 4–17. “The Family Can Be Eternal,” • Effective leadership “Jesus Christ, Our Sure chapter 36 in Gospel Principles, • Home storage and emergency Foundation,” lesson 1 in The Latter- 231–35. Self-Reliance (D&C 88:119) preparedness day Saint Woman, Part B, 2–10. 7. Fortifying the Home and • Education and resource management Family against Evil 2. Becoming Truly Converted as • Health and hygiene Families and Individuals Isa. 52:11; John 15:1–4; Jacob Luke 18:18–30; Mosiah 4:6–7; 3:10–12; D&C 121:45. Service • Service to family and neighbors 5:2; Alma 5:14–35. Thomas S. Monson, (Prov. 31:20; Mosiah 4:26) • Serving in the Church Gordon B. Hinckley, “The “Pornography, the Deadly • Community service project Carrier,” Ensign, July 2001, 2–5. Miracle of Faith,” Ensign, May Physical and Emotional Health • Exercise and nutrition Neal A. Maxwell, “The Tugs 2001, 67–69. (D&C 10:4; Mosiah 4:27) • Stress management and recreation and Pulls of the World,” Ensign, L. Tom Perry, “Discipleship,” • Feeling gratitude and recognizing Nov. 2000, 35–37. Ensign, Nov. 2000, 60–62. the Lord’s blessings Dallin H. Oaks, “The Challenge “Moral Cleanliness,” lesson 34 to Become,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, in Duties and Blessings of the Personal Development and • Patriarchal blessings 32–34. Priesthood, Part A, 250–55. Education • Developing talents and creativity “Charity,” chapter 30 in Gospel 8. Participating in Missionary (D&C 88:118; 130:18–19) • Lifelong learning Principles, 197–202. Service as Families and Literacy • Gospel literacy 3. Remaining Faithful to Our Individuals (Dan. 1:17; Moses 6:5–6) • Written histories and testimonies Baptismal Covenant Mark 16:15; D&C 18:15–16; • Early childhood education and Matt. 3:13–17; 2 Ne. 31:5–20; 34:4–6; 60:1–2; 88:81; 123:12. children’s literature Mosiah 18:7–10. M. Russell Ballard, “Members Cultural Arts • Importance of music in the home James E. Faust, “Born Again,” Are the Key,” Ensign, Sept. 2000, • Literature and fine arts Ensign, May 2001, 54–55, 58. 8–15. (D&C 25:12) Robert D. Hales, “The Jeffrey R. Holland, “‘Witnesses • Understanding other cultures Covenant of Baptism: To Be in the unto Me,’” Ensign, May 2001, 14–16. * Guidelines for home, family, and personal enrichment meetings were distributed with a letter from the First Presidency dated 20 September 1999. Kingdom and of the Kingdom,” “Missionary Work,” chapter 33 ** Resource materials for miniclass subjects include Part A and Part B of The Latter-day Saint Ensign, Nov. 2000, 6–9. in Gospel Principles, 211–17. Woman and the Gospel Principles manual.

102 Lesson 37: Fruits and Gifts of the “I know we’re not supposed to Spirit take the Lord’s name in vain, but Gordon B. Hinckley, “A what about other kinds of swear- Resource Guide for Covenant People,” Friend, Jan. ing?” New Era, Mar. 2001, 16–18. 2000, inside front cover. “Clean Thoughts,” New Era, Merrill J. Bateman, “Living a Feb. 2001, 15. Aaronic Priesthood Manual 3 Christ-Centered Life,” Ensign, Jan. 1999, 6–13. Lesson 44: Service to Others Marilyn Feik, “I Said Yes,” New Thomas S. Monson, (Use to supplement, but not replace, lessons 26–49.) Era, May 1999, 11. “Priesthood Power,” New Era, May 2001, 4–7. Lesson 38: The Pure Love of Christ Shara Braithwaite, “Look What I Thomas S. Monson, “Those Found,” New Era, Sept. 2000, 12–13. Who Love Jesus,” Ensign, Mar. Felecia Angus, “My Memory Note: The manual does not Someday Marry,” Ensign, May 1999, 2–5. Trees,” New Era, July 1999, 12–14. include a specific Christmas lesson. 1998, 49–51. Margaret D. Nadauld, “ ‘Come “Because I Have Been Given If you want to teach a special “. . . Wouldn’t it be all right to unto Christ,’ ” Friend, Jan. 1999, in- Much,” Hymns, no. 219. side front cover. Christmas lesson (22 December), date nonmembers?” New Era, July Lesson 45: Strengthening consider using conference 2001, 16–18. “ ‘Cleave unto Charity,’ ” Ensign, June 2000, 48–53. Testimonies by Bearing Them addresses, articles, and Hymns “Why does the Church say we Gordon B. Hinckley, “Building that focus on the birth, Atonement, should not date until we are 16 “Love One Another,” Hymns, no. 308. Your Testimony,” New Era, Apr. Resurrection, and the life and years old?” New Era, Feb. 2001, 1999, 4–7. mission of the Savior. 16–18. Lesson 39: Feasting on the Words Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Pure Lesson 26: Blessings of Chastity Lesson 32: Preparing for the of Christ Testimony,” New Era, Sept. 2001, Bruce C. Hafen, “The Gospel Temple Endowment Russell M. Nelson, “Living by 8–11. and Romantic Love,” New Era, James E. Faust, “ ‘Who Shall Scriptural Guidance,” Ensign, Nov. Susan L. Warner, “Bear Record Feb. 2002, 10–14. Ascend into the Hill of the Lord?’ ” 2000, 16–18. of Him,” Friend, Sept. 1999, inside “My friends have a hard time Ensign, Aug. 2001, 2–5. “Scripture Study Suggestions,” front cover. understanding why I live the law F. David Stanley, “The Most New Era, Mar. 2001, 15. “Testimony,” Hymns, no. 137. of chastity. . . . ” New Era, Dec. 2000, Important Step,” New Era, June T. S. Hettinger, “ ‘Press Forward, Saints,’ ” Friend, Jan. 2000, 28–30. Lesson 46: Effective Home 16–18. 2000, 20–23. Teaching “As Zion’s Youth in Latter “Endowed with Covenants and “A s I Search the Holy Scriptures,” Hymns, no. 277. Thomas S. Monson, “Home Days,” Hymns, no. 256. Blessings,” Ensign, Feb. 1995, 38–40. Teaching—A Divine Service,” New Lesson 27: The Body Is a Temple Lesson 33: Celestial Marriage— Lesson 40: Doing Missionary Work Era, Nov. 1998, 4–9. Gordon B. Hinckley, “A A Preparation for Eternity Jeffrey R. Holland, “ ‘Witnesses John L. Haueter, “Junior Prophet’s Counsel and Prayer for Richard G. Scott, “Receive the unto Me,’ ” Ensign, May 2001, 14–16. Companion,” New Era, Jan. 2001, Youth,” New Era, Jan. 2001, 4–15; Temple Blessings,” Ensign, May Shanna Ghaznavi, “Fields 36–38. or Ensign, Jan. 2001, 2–11. 1999, 25–27. Ready to Harvest,” New Era, May Chace Randall, “Extra Janet Thomas, “More Than Skin Cree-L Kofford, “Marriage in 2001, 28–31. Helping,” New Era, Nov. 2000, 11. Deep,” New Era, Feb. 2001, 44–48. the Lord’s Way, Part One,” Ensign, Barbara Jean Jones, “It’s Your “Home Teaching and the David A. Burton, “Is there any- June 1998, 6–12. Call,” New Era, June 2000, 16–19. Aaronic Priesthood,” Ensign, Feb. thing wrong with getting a tattoo Gale Sears, “The Thirty-Dollar 2000, 60. Lesson 41: Becoming More like or body piercing?” Ensign, Feb. Wedding Dress,” New Era, Nov. Our Savior Lesson 47: Honesty 1999, 52–53. 2000, 44–46. Dallin H. Oaks, “The James E. Faust, “ ‘We Seek Lesson 28: Withstanding Lesson 34: Obedience Challenge to Become,” Ensign, After These Things,’ ” Ensign, May Te mptation James E. Faust, “Obedience: Nov. 2000, 32–34. 1998, 43–46. Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Live in The Path to Freedom,” Ensign, Richard C. Edgley, “Behold the Jane McBride Choate, “The Obedience,” Ensign, May 1994, May 1999, 45–47. Man,” New Era, May 2000, 4–7. Promise,” Friend, Aug. 2000, 8–10. 39–42. Henry B. Eyring, “A Life Spencer J. Condie, “ ‘Even as I Gordon Swensen, “Arm of “Ways to Win,” New Era, Sept. Founded in Light and Truth,” Am,’ ” Friend, Feb. 1999, inside Honor,” New Era, Aug. 2000, 26–27. 2000, 37. Ensign, July 2001, 6–13. front cover. Ta mara Leatham Bailey, Jeni Willardson, “I Didn’t Fit James Pedersen, “Faith and “Lord, I Would Follow Thee,” “Building Integrity,” New Era, July In,” New Era, May 2000, 37. $45,” New Era, Feb. 2000, 8–10. Hymns, no. 220. 1999, 15. Lesson 29: Sabbath Observance Lesson 35: Faith in the Lord Jesus Lesson 42: Being Humble and Lesson 48: Preparing to Serve James E. Faust, “The Lord’s Christ Teachable through Education Day,” Ensign, Nov. 1991, 33–35. “The Living Christ: The Henry B. Eyring, “Finding Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Earl C. Tingey, “Keeping the Testimony of the Apostles,” New Safety in Counsel,” Ensign, May Prophet’s Counsel and Prayer for Sabbath Day Holy,” Ensign, Feb. Era, Apr. 2000, 20–21; or Ensign, 1997, 24–26. Youth,” New Era, Jan. 2001, 4–15; 2000, 48–55. Apr. 2000, 2–3. Marlin K. Jensen, “ ‘To Walk or Ensign, Jan. 2001, 2–11. Douglas B. Bernard, “Ultimate James E. Faust, “The Shield of Humbly with Thy God,’ ” Ensign, Harold G. Hillam, “What Victory,” New Era, Aug. 1999, 34–36. Faith,” Ensign, May 2000, 17–19. May 2001, 9–11. Matters Most,” New Era, Apr. 2001, Lesson 30: An Aaronic Priesthood James O. Mason, “Faith in Jesus L. Lionel Kendrick, “Friend to 46–48. Holder Cherishes Womanhood Christ,” Ensign, Apr. 2001, 22–27. Friend,” Friend, Jan. 2000, 6–7. “A Major Decision,” New Era, Russell M. Nelson, “Our Sacred “I Believe in Christ,” Hymns, “Be Thou Humble,” Hymns, Sept. 1999, 15. Duty to Honor Women,” Ensign, no. 130. no. 134. Lesson 49: We Have a Wonderful May 1999, 38–40. Lesson 36: Patriarchal Blessings Legacy Sheri L. Dew, “We Are Women Lesson 43: Thoughts and Language James E. Faust, “Priesthood Gordon B. Hinckley, “The of God,” New Era, Nov. 2000, 12–14. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Blessed Blessings,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 62–64. Are the Pure in Heart,” New Era, Miracle of Faith,” Ensign, May Lesson 31: Choosing an Eternal Wayne M. Hancock, “Friend to July 1999, 4–7. 2001, 67–69. Companion Friend,” Friend, Sept. 2000, 6–7. Paula K. Boothe, “Standing Up Joseph Shumway, “Searching Gordon B. Hinckley, “Living Daniel Thomas Brady, “Twice to Profanity,” Ensign, Apr. 2001, for Mary Ellen,” New Era, Aug. Worthy of the Girl You Will Blessed,” New Era, Aug. 1999, 11. 35–37. 1999, 26–27.

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 103 Lesson 36: Marriage Standards Lance B. Wickman, “The Future Jeffrey R. Holland, “Personal You,” New Era, Mar. 2000, 4–6. Purity,” Ensign, Nov. 1998, 75–78. Ariana Lobo, “Wherever You Resource Guide for Brad Wilcox, “Marriage Prep Go,” New Era, Mar. 2001, 39. 101,” New Era, Oct. 1999, 30–33. Lesson 43: Associations with “Families Can Be Together Others Forever,” Hymns, no. 300. Young Women Manual 3 Thomas S. Monson, “The Lesson 37: The Word of God as a Lighthouse of the Lord,” New Era, (Use to supplement, but not replace, lessons 26–47.) Standard Feb. 2001, 4–9; or Ensign, Feb. L. Tom Perry, “ ‘Give Heed 2001, 2–7. unto the Word of the Lord,’ ” Stephen A. West, “ ‘Thy Ensign, June 2000, 22– 29. Neighbour As Thyself,’ ” Friend, Marlin K. Jensen, “Making a June 2000, inside front cover. Note: The manual does not Friend, Dec. 2000, 48. Mighty Change,” New Era, June “. . . How can I do what is right include a specific Christmas lesson. Eric Nelson, “And a Child Led 2001, 4–7. and still be accepted by my If you want to teach a special Me,” New Era, Oct. 2000, 34–36. H. David Burton, “A Time to friends,” New Era, Jan. 2001, 16–18. Christmas lesson (22 December), “A s I Search the Holy Stand Tall,” Friend, July 1999, in- “Each Life That Touches Ours consider using conference ad- Scriptures,” Hymns, no. 277. side front cover. for Good,” Hymns, no. 293. dresses, articles, and Hymns that “Stay Safe,” New Era, June Lesson 31: Service in the Church Lesson 44: Avoiding Crisis Living focus on the birth, Atonement, 2001, 30. Henry B. Eyring, “Watch Over Gordon B. Hinckley, “Be Resurrection, and the life and mis- and Strengthen,” Ensign, May Lesson 38: Good Health Habits Prayerful,” New Era, Oct. 2000, 4–7. sion of the Savior. 2000, 66–68. Boyd K. Packer, “ ‘Ye Are the David B. Haight, “The Basics Lesson 26: Repentance Matthew Baker, “Coming Temple of God,’ ” Ensign, Nov. Have Not Changed,” Friend, Sept. Boyd K. Packer, “ ‘The Touch of Clean,” New Era, Apr. 2001, 28–31. 2000, 72–74. 1998, inside front cover. the Master’s Hand,’ ” Ensign, May Linda Galley, “The Elephants,” “Get Some ZZZZs,” New Era, Dallin H. Oaks, “Focus and 2001, 22–24. Ensign, Dec. 2000, 48–49. Jan. 2001, 40. Priorities,” Ensign, May 2001, 82–84. Jay E. Jensen, “Do You Know Corliss Clayton, “Fernando’s Jeni Willardson, “I Didn’t Fit “Sweet Is the Peace the Gospel How To Repent?” New Era, Nov. Call,” Friend, Oct. 2000, 2–4. In,” New Era, May 2000, 37. Brings,” Hymns, no. 14. 1999, 4–7. Mark J. Rowe, “Where can I Lesson 32: Service in the Lesson 45: Choosing a Vocation “Renew Your Baptismal find accurate information on nu- Community Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Covenants Anew,” Friend, July trition that is not faddish or incon- Thomas S. Monson, “ ‘An Prophet’s Counsel and Prayer for 2000, 24–25. sistent with Word of Wisdom Example of the Believers,’ ” Youth,” New Era, Jan. 2001, 4–15; “Come unto Jesus,” Hymns, no. guidelines?” Ensign, Feb. 1996, Ensign, Nov. 1992, 97–99. or Ensign, Jan. 2001, 2–11. 117. 64–65. Alexander B. Morrison, “A Gordon B. Hinckley, “Put Your Lesson 27: Forgiving Ourselves Caring Community: Goodness in Lesson 39: Recognizing Our Shoulder to the Wheel,” New Era, Gordon B. Hinckley, “How Can Action,” Ensign, Feb. 1999, 12–19. Individual Worth July 2000, 4–7. I Become the Woman of Whom I Jennifer Cheesman, “Unlikely James E. Faust, “Who Do You Gordon B. Hinckley, “Life’s Dream?” Ensign, May 2001, 93–96; Pair,” New Era, Nov. 2000, 32–34. Think You Are?” New Era, Mar. Obligations,” Ensign, Feb. 1999, 2–5. or New Era, Nov. 2001, 4–8. Elyssa Renee Madsen, “Storms 2001, 4–9; or Ensign, Mar. 2001, 2–7. “A Major Decision,” New Era, “Can I Be Forgiven?” New Era, of Service,” New Era, Feb. 2000, Russell M. Nelson, “We Are Sept. 1999, 15. Mar. 2000, 8–10. 12–15. Children of God,” Ensign, Nov. 1998, 85–87. Lesson 46: Money Management Lesson 28: Consecration and Lesson 33: Each Person Is Divine Sheri L. Dew, “We Are Women L. Tom Perry, “ ‘If Ye Are Sacrifice and Eternal of God,” New Era, Nov. 2000, 12–14. Prepared Ye Shall Not Fear,’ ” M. Russell Ballard, “The Law of Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Light “I Am a Child of God,” Hymns, Ensign, Nov. 1995, 35–37. Sacrifice,” Ensign, Oct. 1998, 6–13. within You,” Ensign, May 1995, 99. no. 301. Elyssa Renee Andrus, Carol B. Thomas, “Sacrifice: An Keith B. McMullin, “Welcome “Fantastic Plastic?” New Era, Apr. Lesson 40: Loving Ourselves and Eternal Investment,” Ensign, May Home,” Ensign, May 1999, 79–81. 2001, 32–35. Others 2001, 63–64. Megan Wright, “My ‘Buddy,’ My Bernard Poduska, “Debt James E. Faust, “ ‘Them That Robert J. Whetten, “How Can I Friend,” Friend, Oct. 1998, 40–41. Doesn’t Have to Be Forever,” Honour Me I Will Honour,’ ” Help?” Friend, Aug. 2000, inside “O My Father,” Hymns, no. 292. Ensign, Jan. 2001, 59–63. Ensign, May 2001, 45–47. front cover. Lauradene Lindsay, “What Lesson 34: Avoiding Dishonesty Rebekah Lowe, “About Sara,” “I’ll Go Where You Want Me to does self-reliance mean . . . ?” James E. Faust, “Honesty—a New Era, Mar. 2000, 37. Go,” Hymns, no. 270. Ensign, Apr. 1996, 51–52. Moral Compass,” Ensign, Nov. Pam McEwen, “Her Best Shot,” Lesson 29: A Change of Heart 1996, 41–44. New Era, Jan. 2000, 15. Lesson 47: Messages of Latter-day James E. Faust, “Born Again,” Gordon Swensen, “Arm of Ray Goldrup, “Billy,” Friend, Prophets Ensign, May 2001, 54–55, 58. Honor,” New Era, Aug. 2000, 26–27. May 1999, 2–5. Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Spencer J. Condie, “A Cornelia Dettingmeijer, “ ‘Not Monson, James E. Faust, “Be a Disposition to Do Good Expected of You,’ ” Friend, May Lesson 41: Being Dependable Standard-Bearer,” Friend, June Continually,” Ensign, Aug. 2001, 2000, 8–10. Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Priceless 2001, 24–25. 13–19. Integrity,” New Era, July 1994, 4–7. Lesson 35: Dating Decisions M. Russell Ballard, “ ‘His Word Christopher Aulepp, F. Burton Howard, Gordon B. Hinckley, “ ‘True to Ye Shall Receive,’ ” Ensign, May “Turnaround,” New Era, Aug. 2000, “Commitment,” Ensign, May 1996, the Faith,’ ” Ensign, June 1996, 2–8. 2001, 65–67. 8–10. 27–28. “. . . Wouldn’t it be all right to “From Latter-day Prophets: Kristin Bowen, “Change of Denalee Chapman, “The Three date nonmembers?” New Era, July John Taylor,” Friend, Jan. 2001, in- Heart,” New Era, May 1999, 36–37. Questions,” New Era, Feb. 2000, 2001, 16–18. 26–27. side front cover. Lesson 30: Scripture Study “Why does the Church say we Richard Moore, “My Trust Kimberly Wright, “Ashamed to L. Tom Perry, “Let the Word Fill should not date until we are 16 Fund,” New Era, Oct. 1999, 34–36. Meet a Prophet,” New Era, Nov. Your Hearts,” Friend, Mar. 1996, in- years old?” New Era, Feb. 2001, 2000, 26–27. side front cover. 16–18. Lesson 42: Preparing for Change Wendi Wixom Taylor, “We “Ways to Study the Scriptures “The Do’s of Dating,” New Era, James E. Faust, “This Is Our Have One! We Have One!” New and Understand Them Better,” Nov. 2000, 15. Day,” Ensign, May 1999, 17–19. Era, Nov. 2000, 36–37.

104 NEWS OF THE CHURCH General Auxiliary Presidencies SUNDAY SCHOOL

Elder John H. Groberg Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. Elder Richard J. Maynes First Counselor President Second Counselor

YOUNG MEN

Church members in the Conference Center raise their hands in sustain- ing new leaders called during Saturday afternoon’s conference session. New General and Area Authorities,

Relief Society Presidency Sustained Elder Glenn L. Pace Elder F. Melvin Hammond Elder Spencer J. Condie First Counselor President Second Counselor

ewly called General In his opening remarks RELIEF SOCIETY Authorities, Area during Saturday morn- NAuthorities, and a Relief ing’s session, President Society general presidency Gordon B. Hinckley spoke were sustained on 6 April of the continued growth during the 172nd Annual of the Church. He referred General Conference. to the positive impres- Elder Gerald N. Lund sions of the Church re- and Elder William R. ceived by hundreds of Sister Kathleen H. Hughes Sister Bonnie D. Parkin Sister Anne C. Pingree Walker were called to thousands of visitors, gov- First Counselor President Second Counselor serve in the Second ernmental leaders, and Quorum of the Seventy. media when they recently YOUNG WOMEN Bonnie D. Parkin was visited Salt Lake City for called as general president the Winter Olympic of the Relief Society, with Games. He also spoke of Kathleen H. Hughes as the success of the growing first counselor and Anne C. Perpetual Education Fund, Pingree as second coun- which he announced last selor. (See related biogra- April. The program is now phies beginning on the helping some 2,400 young Sister Carol B. Thomas Sister Margaret D. Nadauld Sister Sharon G. Larsen next page.) Latter-day Saints in devel- First Counselor President Second Counselor Thirty new Area oping nations to gain an Authority Seventies were education. PRIMARY also called—13 from the During the priest- United States, 2 from hood session, President Brazil, 2 from Japan, and Hinckley spoke out one each from Argentina, strongly against abuse Australia, Bolivia, Chile, of spouses, of the elderly, Ecuador, England, Ghana, and of children. “It is Hong Kong, Korea, New something that cannot be Sister Sydney S. Reynolds Sister Coleen K. Menlove Sister Gayle M. Clegg Zealand, Paraguay, Peru, countenanced or toler- First Counselor President Second Counselor and Uruguay. ated,” he said. អ

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 105 Elder Gerald N. Lund Elder William R. Walker OF THE SEVENTY OF THE SEVENTY

“ od cheats no one and s a young boy in the no one cheats God, my small Latter-day Saint Gfather always used to say. communityA of Raymond, He also often told us, ‘God Alberta, Canada, William is a rich paymaster.’ Walker often visited the “We were raised on this nearby home of his grand- philosophy,” said Elder parents. There, hanging on Gerald N. Lund, “and it still the wall, was a picture of defines the way I feel about the First Presidency. “I can service. The more I try to still remember that image. thank God, the more He It had a profound influ- seems to bless me, which in ence on me during those turn puts me deeper in His early years. I grew up lov- debt. You can never catch ing the leaders of the up with Him.” Church.” When Gerald Lund re- Elder William R. Walker turned from his missionary writer, and fulfilled a num- was born on 25 May 1944 with family members, and service, he had determined ber of administrative as- to J. Harris and Beth tending the flowers and that he would rather work signments. He is also the Russell Walker. After fruit trees in his yard. He than go to college. author of many popular serving a full-time mis- and his wife have also had “I went to work in the books and articles. sion to Japan, he attended many opportunities to cul- construction business. After Elder Lund was born in Brigham Young University, tivate in the gardens of the spending one week clean- Fountain Green, Sanpete where he met his wife, Vicki Lord. They were called to ing cement forms with a County, Utah, to Jewell and Van Wagenen. They were preside over the Japan power brush, I realized this Evelyn Lund on 12 Sep- married in the Salt Lake To kyo South Mission in was not how I wanted to tember 1939. The family Te mple on 10 June 1968 1990, and he was presi- spend my life.” moved to Salt Lake City and are the parents of five dent of the Sandy Utah He promptly enrolled when he was a year old children. Cottonwood Creek Stake in BYU, where he com- and later to Murray, Utah, Following his gradua- at the time of his call to pleted his bachelor’s and where he spent most of his tion, the Walkers moved the Second Quorum of master’s degrees. He also growing-up years. to Vancouver, British the Seventy. He has been a did post-graduate study at In 1963 he married Retta Columbia, where he began bishop twice, a high coun- Pepperdine University. His Lynn Stanard, from Great his career in the invest- cilor, and a regional welfare decision to go to college Falls, Montana. They have ment business as a stock agent. not only changed his life 7 children and 17 grand- broker. The Walkers lived “A big part of my life but also resulted in many children. Sister Lund is an in Salt Lake City; Concord, was my mission as a years of gospel influence accomplished musician and California; Dunwoody, young man,” Elder Walker for countless numbers of has published many of her Georgia; and Kenilworth, says. “President Hinckley Latter-day Saints. arrangements. The Lunds Illinois; before returning to visited Japan three times Gerald Lund started have collaborated on sev- Utah again in 1988. He was while I was there. On one teaching seminary in Salt eral Christmas and Easter a president of a subsidiary of those visits to the mis- Lake City in 1965, and cantatas. of American Express and sion home, he told my this was the beginning Elder Lund has served later held executive posi- companion and me to pre- of a 34-year career with as a branch president, tions at two of the world’s pare to be bishops and the Church Educational bishop, and bishop’s coun- largest banks, Citibank and stake presidents. This re- System. In addition to his selor. At the time of his call Barclays Bank. ally surprised us. But I early years teaching semi- to the Second Quorum of Elder Walker’s interests have been blessed to see nary, he taught institute, Seventy, Elder Lund was include studying Church the fulfillment of that served as an institute direc- serving as president of the history, conducting per- wonderful encouragement tor, worked as a curriculum BYU 14th Stake. អ sonal history interviews from a prophet of God.” អ

106 Bonnie D. Parkin Kathleen H. Hughes RELIEF SOCIETY GENERAL PRESIDENT FIRST COUNSELOR, RELIEF SOCIETY GENERAL PRESIDENCY

“ o many of the things “ eavenly Father has en- that are good in my life dowed women with Shappened because of Relief soH many wonderful gifts Society,” says Bonnie D. and abilities and qualities,” Parkin. “I believe in the says Kathleen H. Hughes, goodness of women to look newly called first counselor out for each other in ways in the Relief Society general that cheer each other on.” presidency. “With His help, Born on 4 August 1940 and with help from each to Jesse H. and Ruth other, we can’t fail.” Butikofer Dansie, Sister Sister Hughes says that Parkin is the third in a the words of the scriptures, family of five children. She together with her knowl- was reared in Herriman, edge that she is a daughter Utah, in the southwest part of God, have anchored her of the Salt Lake Valley, and helped her find peace, which had been settled by challenge, but sweet peace even during the difficult have three children and her father’s grandfather at came as the women of the periods of her life. Once, five grandchildren. the direction of President ward accepted me. That for example, while she was Sister Hughes earned Brigham Young. Her calling blessed my life and struggling with what she her bachelor’s degree in mother’s parents were helped me grow.” says may have been post- English education at Weber Swiss converts who settled Sister Parkin served on partum depression, she State College in 1966, and near Idaho Falls, Idaho. the Relief Society general and her husband visited she earned her master’s de- In 1962 Sister Parkin board from 1990 until the Liberty Jail in Missouri. gree in special education graduated with a B.A. 1 October 1994, when she They reviewed the Prophet at Central Missouri State degree from Utah State was called as second coun- Joseph Smith’s experience University in 1974. She University and, soon after, selor in the Young Women there and read the reve- taught school for many began teaching third grade general presidency. Then, lation he received, as years and has been work- in Bountiful, Utah. In in 1997, her husband was recorded in Doctrine and ing as an administrator in February 1963 she met called to serve for three Covenants 121. Sister the Provo (Utah) School James L. Parkin, who was years as mission president Hughes realized that just District since 1985. in his first year of medical of the England London as the Lord had sustained Most recently Sister school at the University of South Mission. Joseph Smith, He would Hughes has served as the Utah. They married on “The blessing of serving help her endure her own Young Women president 1 July 1963 in the Salt Lake a mission with my husband trials. “It was one of those in her ward. She has also Temple. greatly strengthened me,” times you remember—a had callings in the Relief Now the parents of 4 she says. “We loved the defining moment when I Society, Primary, and and grandparents of 14, the British Saints, as well as our sensed the presence of the Sunday School and has Parkins still enjoy family elders and sister missionar- Lord in my life and real- served on the Young vacations together. Sister ies and learned so much ized what the scriptures Women general board. Parkin also loves garden- from them.” can do to bring comfort “The purpose of Relief ing, tennis, and early- Eager to encourage and peace,” she says. Society is to help the sisters morning walks. young women to discover Sister Hughes was born and their families, with the “As I look at my life, the joys of Relief Society on 19 October 1944 in help of the priesthood, come every calling has strength- and for Relief Society sisters Tooele, Utah, to William to Christ,” she says. “I feel ened me,” she says. “Being to reach out to young Daly and Emma Johanson such peace about this calling called to serve as Relief women, Sister Parkin says, Hurst. She married writer and know it will be a won- Society president when I “For all sisters, Relief Society Dean T. Hughes on derful opportunity to work was one of the youngest is a place that can help us 23 November 1966 in the with these great women in mothers in my ward was a come unto Christ.” អ Salt Lake Temple; they the presidency.” អ

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 107 Anne C. Pingree Two Apostles Will Serve Overseas SECOND COUNSELOR, eginning this August, and in helping new mem- RELIEF SOCIETY GENERAL PRESIDENCY Elder Dallin H. Oaks bers assimilate into the Band Elder Jeffrey R. Church and attend the nne C. Pingree loves to Holland of the Quorum of temple in the Philippines read. But even more, the Twelve Apostles will and Chile—areas of rapid Ashe loves to help others serve in overseas assign- Church growth. The new learn to read. ments for a period of one assignments will also While serving with her year. Elder Oaks will serve enable members of the husband, George C. Pingree, as Area President in the Quorum of the Twelve to as he presided over the Philippines, and Elder gain additional experience Nigeria Port Harcourt Holland will serve in the in meeting such needs. Mission, one of Sister same capacity in Chile. In the Philippines, Pingree’s main focuses was The First Presidency an- Church membership has promoting literacy, espe- nounced the appointments grown to nearly half a cially among auxiliary lead- in a post–general confer- million, with much of ers. “I’ll never forget how ence training meeting with the growth occurring in joyful the sisters were when General Authorities on the past decade. More they learned to read. When 9 April. The appointments than 1,200 congregations, they stood up in training mark the first time in grouped in 80 stakes and meetings and read simple prepared her in additional decades that a member of 13 missions, now exist in sentences about their leader- ways. “My perspective, my the Quorum of the Twelve this nation. ship responsibility, the other insight, and my under- has lived and presided out- Chile now has more women there would clap for standing of worldwide side the United States. In than 520,000 Latter-day them, they were so happy,” women have increased. the mid-1960s, Elder Ezra Saints. In 1988 it became says Sister Pingree. They taught me more Taft Benson (1899–1994) the fourth nation in the With a bachelor’s degree about faith and testimony and Elder Mark E. Petersen world to reach 50 stakes. in English from the Uni- than I ever taught them.” (1900–84) presided as Between 1983 and 1993, versity of Utah, Sister Prior service as a Relief Apostles over the Euro- the numbers of Chilean Pingree has been a literacy Society general board mem- pean and West European members and stakes dou- volunteer for Spanish- ber, a stake and ward Relief Missions respectively. bled, making Chile the speaking elementary school Society president, a coun- Elder David O. McKay country with the fastest- children through the “I Can selor in the stake Young (1873–1970) presided over growing Church member- Read Program” and an Women presidency, and a the British Mission in the ship in South America. English tutor for Laotian im- ward Primary president early 1920s as a member of Continued growth, includ- migrants through Literacy have also given Sister the Quorum of the Twelve. ing the creation of 26 new Volunteers of America. Pingree a great love and Elder Oaks and Elder stakes in the 1994–96 pe- “I think the Lord gives appreciation for the women Holland will assist in train- riod, led to the creation of you experiences in your life of the Church. “I hope to ing new Church leadership the Chile Area in 1996. អ that prepare you for things reach every woman and that are coming in the fu- help her feel she is impor- ture,” says Sister Pingree, tant in the Lord’s eyes,” she who credits her literacy ex- says. “Prophets have told April Conference Available on DVD periences with helping to us that we, as covenant prepare her for her new women, have a significant ish you could watch U.S. $14.25) is scheduled to calling. As second counselor contribution to make in conference again or be available from Church in the Relief Society general building the kingdom.” Wwatch it in a different lan- distribution centers or via presidency, she hopes to Sister Pingree was born guage? Now you can, using www.ldscatalog.com in continue to promote liter- in Salt Lake City on 11 June a single DVD set recorded in June. Conference is also acy as an ongoing emphasis 1941 to Ezra T. and Maude 16 languages. available in English on of the Relief Society. Erickson Clark. She and her This DVD is compatible videocassette (22056; U.S. Sister Pingree adds that husband married in the with any DVD player and $15.50), audiocassette (22055; working with people from Salt Lake Temple in 1963 TV set in the world. The U.S. $7.75), and compact disc other countries has also and have five children. អ DVD set (item no. 22057090; (22054; U.S. $9.50). អ

108 The new temple will serve some 35,000 Church members in 11 stakes in northeastern Arizona and a small portion of western New Mexico. The temple district includes members who live on Apache, Hopi, Navajo, and Zuni reserva- tions, and many Native American designs and furnishings have been included in the temple interior, items such as handcrafted rugs, baskets, and pottery. More than 11,000 mem- bers attended the temple’s dedication. Although only 9,000 people reside in the Snowflake area, more than

PHOTO BY SCOTT P. ADAIR SCOTT P. PHOTO BY 94,000 attended the open Since the Snowflake temple’s dedication, “nearly every [session] has been completely full,” said temple president house on 2–16 February. Leon T. Ballard. The temple serves some 35,000 members in northeastern Arizona and western New Mexico. Temple president Leon T. Ballard, a native of Snow- flake, said that many thou- President Hinckley Dedicates Snowflake Arizona Temple sands of visitors came resident Gordon B. dedicatory prayer, referring crowning all is this magnifi- because of ancestral ties Hinckley dedicated to early Latter-day Saint cent and beautiful temple.” to the area. “And in their Pthe Snowflake temple— settlers who came to the Accompanying enthusiasm, they brought Arizona’s second and the Snowflake area in 1878 as President Hinckley were their friends,” he said. Church’s 108th—in four requested by President Elder Neal A. Maxwell of President Ballard said this sessions on 3 March. Brigham Young. “They the Quorum of the Twelve enthusiasm for the new “We are thankful for struggled so desperately for Apostles and Elder Dale E. temple has not decreased those who laid the foun- so long against adversities Miller of the Seventy, since its dedication. “We of- dations of this and other of many kinds. Now their Second Counselor in the fer 24 sessions a week, and nearby communities,” said posterity enjoy the sweet North America Southwest nearly every one of them President Hinckley in his fruits of their efforts, and Area Presidency. has been completely full.” អ

attend their local broadcast. dedicatory service, 27 June, The first service will be is the anniversary of the Nauvoo Temple broadcast live on Thursday, martyrdom of the Prophet 27 June at 6:00 P.M. central Joseph Smith, almost to the Dedication daylight time (CDT) and hour. It was shortly after rebroadcast at 8:00 P.M. CDT. 5:00 P.M.on 27 June 1844 to Be Broadcast The concluding service when the Prophet and his will also be broadcast live brother Hyrum were mar- he First Presidency worldwide on Sunday, tyred in nearby Carthage. has announced that 30 June at 5:00 P.M. CDT. The open house for the dedicationT services for the For those time zones Nauvoo temple is sched- Nauvoo Illinois Temple will that will receive the broad- uled from 18 May through be broadcast to stake cen- cast at inconvenient hours, 22 June (except Sundays). ters worldwide via satellite. rebroadcasts will be sched- Hundreds of thousands of Church members aged uled for a convenient hour people are expected to at- eight and older should see on Friday, 28 June, or tend. For more informa- their bishop or branch presi- Sunday, 30 June. tion, visit the Church Web WELDEN C. ANDERSEN PHOTO BY អ dent for a recommend to The date of the first site at www.lds.org. Today’s Nauvoo Illinois Temple

THE ENSIGN/MAY 2002 109 excerpts from the thou- impression that the sands of articles that ap- Mormon leadership would peared worldwide: like to leave on their inter- “The church’s contribu- national visitors, it is that a tion turned into a plus af- religion with a reputation ter years of fear that these as an American upstart has would be the Mormon matured into a global faith. Games. [International One-third of the 60,000 Olympic Committee missionaries knocking on President Jacques] Rogge doors for the church are said Mormon influence foreigners, and not all are was ‘absolutely invisible,’ evangelizing their own but he noted the indirect countrymen. Spaniards contribution the church’s proselytize in Tokyo, missions had made in Brazilians in Lagos and helping welcome the Filipinos in New Zealand” PHOTO BY PAUL BARKER, DESERET NEWS PAUL PHOTO BY Al Roker asked Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, world. Many volunteers (New York Times, 26 Jan. 2002). appearing live on NBC’s Today show, about the Salt Lake Temple. were former missionaries “I suspect strongly that During the same show, Mr. Roker also directed the Tabernacle Choir. whose time in a foreign the clean little secret of Salt country had given them Lake City, Utah, . . . is not language skills” (Chicago anything that should seem Media Spotlight Shines on Church Tribune, 25 Feb. 2002). extraordinary: It is simply “In merely 150 years, the mix of a serious and BY TIFFANY E. LEWIS walk-in visitors. The staff the Latter Day Saints have upright religion, of fami- espite its emphasis on set up interviews with grown from the ecstatic lies who foster and insist taking a low profile General Authorities and visions of the 14-year-old upon providing the high- Dduring the 2002 Winter other Church representa- Joseph Smith in the woods est levels of culture right Olympic Games, the tives, arranged tours of of upstate New York into along with the highest Church became an in- Church sites such as a . . . U.S. global church, modern technology, and evitable media focal point Welfare Square and Temple claiming a worldwide of generally sensible orga- when 10,000 media visitors Square, and provided inter- membership of 11 million. nizing and governing. In descended on Salt Lake pretation in any language It is without a doubt the short, it is a modern mix City. The Church was the requested. Packets of infor- most successful religious of the old America” (syndi- subject of many thousands mation on everything from group ever started in the cated columnist Georgie of Olympic-related articles the Family History Library North Americas” (The Anne Geyer, Washington and broadcasts, the vast ma- to common myths about Ottawa Citizen, 3 Feb. 2002). Times, 16 Feb. 2002). jority of which were positive the Church were available “If there is any single “[President Hinckley] and fair, reports the Church in several languages. Also Public Affairs Department. available for media use While President were computers on which Gordon B. Hinckley made the media portion of the it clear that the Church was Church’s Web site was taking nothing more than translated into 12 languages. a supportive role in the Of such efforts, one Olympics, efforts were French newspaper re- made to accommodate me- ported, “In matters of [pub- dia who came to Church lic relations], the Mormons headquarters looking for are already wearing the stories. A temporary News gold medal” (Le Monde, Resource Center was cre- 31 Jan. 2002). Church ated in the Joseph Smith media relations director Memorial Building. From Michael R. Otterson added, here Public Affairs officials “I believe the image of and hundreds of volun- Latter-day Saints has dra- PHOTO COURTESY OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT PHOTO COURTESY teers took more than 2,000 matically shifted since media NBC anchor Tom Brokaw’s interview with President Gordon B. Hinckley media phone calls and coverage of the Olympics.” aired in prime time as part of NBC’s Olympic coverage. Mr. Brokaw assisted more than 1,300 Following are just a few described President Hinckley as an energetic, enormously thoughtful man.

110 radiates warmth, his Another luge participant words are soft and well was Dinah Browne of the chosen, but he speaks his St. Croix Branch, Puerto convictions powerfully Rico San Juan Mission. and persuasively. In spite Sister Browne made Winter of this, he knows how to Olympic history as the first make his conversation black female athlete ever partner feel comfortable. to compete in the luge. “As I leave the Church She competed for the [Administration] Building, U.S. Virgin Islands. I encounter a woman beg- Also representing the gar at the end of the steps. U.S. Virgin Islands was . . . Usually, with indiffer- Quinn Wheeler, who ence, I pass such people competed in the two-man

by. But after a visit with DESERET NEWS CALL, RAVELL PHOTO BY bobsled event. Brother President Hinckley there Lacey Heward, a member from Highland, Utah, won bronze medals in Wheeler’s home ward is is nothing one can do but the super-G and giant slalom in the mono-ski division of the Paralympics. the Taylorsville 39th Ward, open his wallet and give Taylorsville Utah South the woman a dollar” Stake. (Von Horst Rademacher, Thirteen Latter-day Saints Compete Two sisters played on Frankfurter Allgemeine the German ice hockey [Germany], 7 Feb. 2002). in 2002 Winter Olympic Games team. Stefanie Wartosch- Volunteers in the News Kurten of the Ludwigsburg Resource Center said re- hirteen Latter-day Rowena Bright from Ward, Stuttgart Germany porters’ preconceptions Saints from around the the Cooma Branch, Stake, was a goalie; her often changed after they Tworld are known to have Canberra Australia Stake, sister, Sabine Rückauer of learned more about the competed in the Salt Lake was a contender in the the Wailblingen Branch, Church and met General 2002 Winter Olympic and Olympic Alpine ski events Stuttgart Germany Stake, Authorities and other Paralympic Games in of slalom, giant slalom, was a defender. អ Latter-day Saints. “Many of February and March. Two and combined. the media have reported of these athletes, Joe Pack Paul O’Connor of the that the Church is far dif- and Lacey Heward, won Provo First Ward, Provo ferent than they thought. medals. Utah Bonneville Stake, For us volunteers that has Brother Pack, a member competed for Ireland in Light of the World been the most rewarding of the Park City Ward, Park cross-country skiing. Is Now on CD part,” said volunteer David City Utah Stake, took the Brother O’Connor was Bresnahan. Don Jarvis, an- silver medal in aerial ski the first Nordic skier ever he soundtrack for the other volunteer, said the jumping. He was the first to compete for Ireland. Church musical spectacular change seemed to take Latter-day Saint to win a Tamami Tanaka has LightT of the World: A Celebration place when reporters and medal in the Winter Games been a member of the of Life is now available on com- other visitors saw the since 1964. Sister Heward, Japanese biathlon team pact disc (item no. 22323; U.S. Church in action and inter- Mount Mahogany Ward, since 1995 and is a mem- $5.75). The performance, which acted with its members. Highland Utah East Stake, ber of the Moiwa Ward, ran 14 times in the Conference Perhaps one article from won bronze medals in the Sapporo Japan West Stake. Center during the 2002 Winter the London Evening Standard super-G and giant slalom She competed in four Olympic and Paralympic summed it up best: “Nobody in the mono-ski division of biathlon events. Games, was seen by some knows yet who is going to the Paralympics. Werner and Chris 300,000 people. win at these Games but it Keith Barney, the other Hoeger, a father and son The music for the produc- is already easy to imagine Latter-day Saint who com- pair from the DeMeyer tion was written by Latter-day that, with their uncon- peted in the Paralympics, Park Ward, Meridian Idaho Saint composers and performed ditional welcome and took part in the five- North Stake, represented by the Mormon Tabernacle unprecedented global visi- kilometer cross-country Werner’s home nation of Choir, the Orchestra at Temple bility, the Mormons cannot race and in the sit-ski divi- Venezuela in the luge Square, and the International lose” (7 Feb. 2002). អ sion of the men’s biathlon. event. At age 48, Werner Children’s Choir. The CD can He is a member of the was the oldest luge com- be purchased through Church Tiffany E. Lewis is a member Alpine 11th Ward, Alpine petitor, and at age 17, Chris distribution centers or at of the BYU Fifth Ward, អ BYU 11th Stake. Utah Stake. was the youngest. www.ldscatalog.com. tered by completing a pedi- in Russian explaining the Kalliomäki, who was bap- gree chart and writing a Finnish women’s desire to tized shortly before the In the Spotlight story from family history. send something made with project began, said partici- Young people of the their own hands to their pating helped her form stake cut and distributed unknown friends in Russia. roots in the Church and BYU—IDAHO’S ENROLLMENT gold ribbons throughout The sisters hope the pack- the Relief Society. A young HITS RECORD HIGH the community for people ages will help break barriers woman who had just en- to display as a reminder of between Finland and Russia. tered Relief Society, Enrollment at Brigham the importance of families. Members of other faiths Annastiina Ruuskanen, Young University—Idaho Government leaders, in- and less-active and new said, “I have gained a feel- hit an all-time high with cluding Missouri Governor members of the Relief ing for what Relief Society 9,893 students during the Bob Holden, praised the Society also took part is. I feel I have joined a cir- 2002 winter semester. The project. The week culmi- in the project. Kristiina cle of sisters.” enrollment included 2,529 nated with Blue Springs students classified as Mayor Greg Grounds des- juniors or seniors. ignating every Tuesday BYU—Idaho began of- night as “family night.” Comment fering bachelor’s degrees Blue Springs’s family along with its traditional week started four years ago Not Treeless Call for Articles associate degrees last fall. when Kansas City stake The article “Saints in If you have had per- member Diane Mack pre- Saskatchewan, Canada” sonal experience pertaining KANSAS CITY STAKE HELPS sented the idea to officials (Feb. 2002) contains to the following, we invite PUT ON FAMILY WEEK at her son’s elementary some misinformation. you to share your sugges- school. The idea was so Saskatchewan is not a tions: My spouse died some Members of the Kansas successful at the school treeless province. The time ago, and though we are City Missouri Stake joined that it has now turned central and southern sealed for eternity, I still find their community to put on into a community-wide part of the province is myself struggling with loneli- the fourth annual “Family celebration. prairie, but one only ness. What can I do to combat Week” in Blue Springs, has to visit the Cypress these feelings, and how can I Missouri, 20–26 January. FINNISH RELIEF SOCIETY SENDS Hills in the southwest and others help relieve the The weeklong commu- AID TO RUSSIAN WOMEN of the province or go loneliness of other widows and nity celebration included north to the boreal forest widowers like myself? various religious services Sisters of the Tampere to see that some of the Send your response by focusing on the importance Ward, Tampere Finland province is covered with 15 June to Ensign Editorial, of the family; a sacred mu- Stake, recently provided trees. 24th Floor, 50 East North sic festival; the selection of a dozens of maternity aid John Benson Temple Street, Salt Lake “family of the year”; family packages to a hospital in the Edmonton, Alberta, Canada City, Utah 84150-3224. At time improvement contests; Russian republic of Karelia. the top of your submission, family-centered activities; The packages contained 58 Inside Cover Art write “Questions and family-themed photo, art, hand-knit blankets, diapers, I am just writing to Answers,” along with your and essay contests; and a baby clothes, and other express my appreciation name, address, telephone drawing that could be en- baby supplies, with a letter for the beautiful artwork number, ward, and stake. used each month on the You may also reply by inside front and back cov- e-mail to cur-editorial- ers of the Ensign. I have [email protected]. particularly enjoyed the Put “Questions and landscape scenes of the Answers” in the subject historical sites in the British line. Isles and the poignant por- While we cannot ac- traits of Joseph and Emma knowledge receipt of indi- Smith. These pictures on vidual responses, authors the inside covers are al- whose submissions are se- ways delightful and in lected for publication will good taste. be notified. If you want

PHOTO BY TUIJA VILONEN TUIJA PHOTO BY Elizabeth Clark your submission returned, Relief Society sisters in Tampere, Finland, worked together to produce Stevenage, Hertfordshire, enclose a self-addressed, dozens of newborn kits for a hospital in the Russian republic of Karelia. England stamped envelope.

112 Remembrance Day, Septemberby 14, Anne 2001, Marie Oborn

After the terrorist attacks on Tuesday, September 11, 2001, United States President George W. Bush declared Friday, September 14, a day of remembrance. All were encouraged to light a candle in memory of the victims of the attacks. This painting shows the artist and her daughter observing this day of remembrance.

: PHOTO BY CRAIG DIMOND CRAIG BY PHOTO : RIGHT CLARK; JED BY PHOTO LEFT: eat has been the history of this work. Our people have endured every Indescribable have endured kind of suffering. r G to view. It finds expression in the lives of a happy and It finds expression to view. in opening general conference. “As the tapestry of [the “As in opening general conference. their labors. But out of all of this fiery crucible has come “ Church’s] past has unrolled, a beautiful pattern has come something glorious. Today we stand on the summit of the we stand on the summit something glorious. Today have been their sacrifices. Immense beyond belief have been have been their sacrifices. Immense beyond years and look about us,” said President Gordon B. Hinckley Gordon years and look about us,” said President wonderful people. It portends marvelous things yet to come.”

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