THE ENSIGN OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • NOVEMBER 2008

General Conference Addresses Five New Temples Announced COURTESY OF HOPE GALLERY Christ Teaching Mary and Martha, by Anton Dorph The Savior “entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word” (Luke 10:38–39). NOVEMBER 2008 • VOLUME 38 • NUMBER 11

2 Conference Summary for the 178th SUNDAY MORNING SESSION 100 Testimony as a Process Semiannual General Conference 68 Our Hearts Knit as One Elder Carlos A. Godoy President Henry B. Eyring 102 “Hope Ya Know, We Had SATURDAY MORNING SESSION 72 Christian Courage: The Price a Hard Time” 4 Welcome to Conference of Discipleship Elder Quentin L. Cook President Thomas S. Monson Elder Robert D. Hales 106 Until We Meet Again 7 Let Him Do It with Simplicity 75 God Loves and Helps All President Thomas S. Monson Elder L. Tom Perry of His Children 10 Go Ye Therefore Bishop Keith B. McMullin GENERAL RELIEF SOCIETY MEETING Silvia H. Allred 78 A Return to Virtue 108 Fulfilling the Purpose 13 You Know Enough Elaine S. Dalton of Relief Society Elder Neil L. Andersen 81 The Truth of God Shall Go Forth Julie B. Beck 15 Because My Father Read the Elder M. Russell Ballard 112 Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants Book of Mormon 84 Finding Joy in the Journey Silvia H. Allred Elder Marcos A. Aidukaitis President Thomas S. Monson 114 Now Let Us Rejoice 17 Sacrament Meeting and the Barbara Thompson Sacrament SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 117 Happiness, Your Heritage Elder Dallin H. Oaks 88 The Test President Dieter F. Uchtdorf 21 The Infinite Power of Hope President Boyd K. Packer President Dieter F. Uchtdorf 92 Celestial Marriage 64 General Authorities of The Church Elder Russell M. Nelson of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 95 Gospel Teaching—Our Most 121 Teachings for Our Time 25 The Sustaining of Church Officers Important Calling 122 They Spoke to Us President Henry B. Eyring William D. Oswald 124 Conference Story Index 26 Come What May, and Love It 98 Returning Home Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin Elder Eduardo 125 News of the Church 29 The Ministry of Angels Gavarret 128 General Auxiliary Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Presidencies 32 Even a Child Can Understand Elder Gérald Caussé 34 The Way Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge 37 Come to Zion Elder D. Todd Christofferson 41 Pray Always Elder David A. Bednar

PRIESTHOOD SESSION 44 Honor the Priesthood and Use It Well Elder Richard G. Scott 47 Arms of Safety Elder Jay E. Jensen 50 Winning the War against Evil Elder James J. Hamula 53 Lift Where You Stand President Dieter F. Uchtdorf 57 O Ye That Embark President Henry B. Eyring 60 To Learn, to Do, to Be President Thomas S. Monson Follow Thee,” Hymns, no. 220, arr. Webb, Conference Summary for the 178th unpublished; “Now Let Us Rejoice,” Hymns, no. 3; “Rejoice, the Lord Is King!” Hymns, Semiannual General Conference no. 66, arr. Kasen, unpublished. CONFERENCE RECORDINGS AVAILABLE SATURDAY MORNING, OCTOBER 4, 2008, Elder Daniel L. Johnson. Music by the Recordings of conference sessions are avail- GENERAL SESSION Tabernacle Choir; Mack Wilberg, director; able at www.lds.org. Generally within two Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Andrew Unsworth and Clay Christiansen, months following conference, recordings Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. organists: “Now Let Us Rejoice,” Hymns, are also available at distribution centers. Invocation: Elder Shayne M. Bowen. no. 3; “I Know That My Redeemer Lives,” Recordings for individuals who are deaf are Benediction: Elder Craig A. Cardon. Music Hymns, no. 136; “Oh, What Songs of the available at www.lds.org/asl and generally by the Tabernacle Choir; Mack Wilberg and Heart,” Hymns, no. 286, arr. Wilberg, pub. within two months following conference from Ed Thompson, directors; Clay Christiansen Jackman; “Rejoice, the Lord Is King!” Hymns, distribution centers (three DVDs with a sign- and Andrew Unsworth, organists: “High no. 66; “I Feel My Savior’s Love,” Children’s ing inset). For more information, call 1-800- on the Mountain Top,” Hymns, no. 5; Songbook, 74–75, arr. Cardon, unpublished; 537-5971 or log on to www.ldscatalog.com. “Redeemer of Israel,” Hymns, no. 6, arr. “The Morning Breaks,” Hymns, no. 1, arr. CONFERENCE TALKS ON INTERNET Wilberg, pub. Hinshaw; “Oh, May My Soul Wilberg, unpublished. To access general conference talks Commune with Thee,” Hymns, no. 123; on the Internet in many languages, visit “Come, Ye Children of the Lord,” Hymns, SUNDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 5, 2008, GENERAL SESSION www.lds.org. Click on “Gospel Library” no. 58; “Do What Is Right,” Hymns, no. 237, and “General Conference.” Then select Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. arr. Wilberg, unpublished; “O Thou Kind a language. and Gracious Father,” Hymns, no. 150; “I Conducting: President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. Need Thee Every Hour,” Hymns, no. 98, Invocation: Elder Paul B. Pieper. HOME AND VISITING TEACHING MESSAGES arr. Wilberg, unpublished. Benediction: Elder Marcus B. Nash. Music by For home and visiting teaching messages, the Tabernacle Choir; Mack Wilberg and Ed SATURDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 4, 2008, please select an address that best meets the Thompson, directors; Bonnie Goodliffe and needs of those you visit. GENERAL SESSION Linda Margetts, organists: “Guide Us, O Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Thou Great Jehovah,” Hymns, no. 83, arr. ON THE COVER Conducting: President Henry B. Eyring. Wilberg, pub. Jackman; “Faith in Every Front: Photograph by Matthew Reier. Invocation: Elder James M. Dunn. Footstep,” K. Newell Dayley, arr. Dayley, pub. Back: Photograph by Christina Smith. Benediction: Elder Don R. Clarke. Music Jackman; “How Firm a Foundation,” Hymns, by a Primary choir from Kaysville and Fruit no. 85; “We Ever Pray for Thee,” Hymns, no. CONFERENCE PHOTOGRAPHY Heights, Utah; Colleen Paddock, director; 23, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. Scenes of general conference in Salt Lake Linda Margetts, organist: “I Am a Child of City were taken by Craig Dimond, Welden C. God,” Children’s Songbook, 2–3, arr. SATURDAY EVENING, SEPTEMBER 27, 2008, Andersen, John Luke, Matthew Reier, Wolford/Margetts, unpublished; “The Light GENERAL RELIEF SOCIETY MEETING Christina Smith, Les Nilsson, Scott Davis, Divine,” Hymns, no. 305; “Teach Me to Walk Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Lindsay Briggs, Rod Boam, Alpha Smoot, in the Light,” Hymns, no. 304; “I Love to See Conducting: Julie B. Beck. Invocation: Cody Bell, and Mark Weinberg; in Argentina the Temple,” Children’s Songbook, 95; “We Ann W. Farnsworth. Benediction: Jana P. by Javier Coronati and Maria Gabriela Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet,” Hymns, Staples. Music by a Relief Society choir from Igarzabal; in Brazil by Israel Antunes and no. 19, arr. Watkins, unpublished. Alpine and Highland, Utah; Merrilee Webb, Laureni Ademar Fochetto; in Italy by Jason director; Linda Margetts, organist: “Come, Cole and Tyson Rollins; in Moldova by Dane SATURDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 4, 2008, O Thou King of Kings,” Hymns, no. 59, Rigdon; in Nigeria by John Olu Faoseke; and PRIESTHOOD SESSION arr. Ipson, unpublished; “Lord, I Would in Ukraine by Marina Lukach. Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. Invocation: Elder David S. Baxter. Benediction: Elder Keith R. Edwards. Music by a priesthood choir from the Provo Missionary Training Center; Douglas Brenchley, director; Clay Christiansen, organist: “Called to Serve,” Hymns, no. 249, arr. Boothe, pub. New Vision Music; “Lord, I Would Follow Thee,” Hymns, no. 220, arr. Dayley, pub. Jackman; “Praise to the Man,” Hymns, no. 27; “Hark, All Ye Nations!” Hymns, no. 264, arr. Ipson, unpublished.

SUNDAY MORNING, OCTOBER 5, 2008, GENERAL SESSION Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. Invocation: Elder Earl C. Tingey. Benediction:

2 NOVEMBER 2008 • VOLUME 38 NUMBER 11

AN OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS The First Presidency: Thomas S. Monson, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Christofferson Editor: Spencer J. Condie Advisers: Gary J. Coleman, Kenneth Johnson, Yoshihiko Kikuchi, W. Douglas Shumway Managing Director: David L. Frischknecht Editorial Director: Victor D. Cave Graphics Director: Allan R. Loyborg Managing Editor: Don L. Searle SPEAKERS IN ALPHABETICAL TOPIC INDEX Kindness, 68 Assistant Managing Editor: ORDER LaRene Porter Gaunt Activation, 98 Knowledge, 32 Senior Editors: Linda Stahle Cooper, Matthew D. Aidukaitis, Marcos A., 15 Adversity, 7, 13, 26, 72, 102 Last days, 50 Flitton, Larry Hiller, Michael R. Morris, Judith M. Allred, Silvia H., 10, 112 Angels, 29, 57 Learning, 60 Paller, Joshua J. Perkey Assistant Editor: Melissa Merrill Andersen, Neil L., 13 Atonement, 47 Lifting, 53 Editorial Staff: Susan Barrett, Ryan Carr, Ballard, M. Russell, 81 Blessings, 75 Love, 95 Jenifer L. Greenwood, R. Val Johnson, Beck, Julie B., 108 Book of Mormon, 10, 15 Marriage, 44, 92 Adam C. Olson, Laurel Teuscher Editorial Intern: Meagan D. Lake Bednar, David A., 41 Callings, 53 Missionary work, 10, 81, 98 Senior Secretary: Christy Banz Caussé, Gérald, 32 Change, 84 Modesty, 7 Publications Assistant: Sally J. Odekirk Christofferson, D. Todd, 37 Charity, 21, 37 Obedience, 34, 50 Managing Art Director: M. M. Kawasaki Cook, Quentin L., 102 Children, 32 Optimism, 102 Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen Senior Designers: C. Kimball Bott, Corbridge, Lawrence E., 34 Church growth, 4, 81 Patriotism, 88 Colleen Hinckley Dalton, Elaine S., 78 Church history, 81, 88 Perspective, 26 Design and Production Staff: Cali R. Arroyo, Eyring, Henry B., 25, 57, 68 Comfort, 29, 102 Pondering, 95 Collette Nebeker Aune, Thomas S. Child, Eric P. Johnsen, Scott M. Mooy, Jane Ann Peters, Gavarret, Eduardo, 98 Compassion, 117 Prayer, 41, 50, 68, 75 Scott Van Kampen Godoy, Carlos A., 100 Compensation, 26 Preparation, 7 Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick Hales, Robert D., 72 Conversion, 10, 15 Priesthood, 44, 53, 57, 60 Distribution Director: Randy J. Benson Hamula, James J., 50 Courage, 72 Protection, 29, 78 © 2008 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. Holland, Jeffrey R., 29 Covenants, 112 Relief Society, 108, 114 All rights reserved. The Ensign (ISSN 0884-1136) Jensen, Jay E., 47 Creativity, 117 Revelation, 68, 88 is published monthly by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt McMullin, Keith B., 75 Debt, 7 Reverence, 17 Lake City, UT 84150-3220, USA. Periodicals Postage Monson, Thomas S., 4, 60, Discipleship, 72 Righteousness, 102 Paid at Salt Lake City, Utah. 84, 106 Discouragement, 117 Sacrament, 17, 47 To subscribe: By phone, call 1-800-537-5971 to Nelson, Russell M., 92 Duty, 60 Sacrament meeting, 17, 47 order using Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or Oaks, Dallin H., 17 Eternal life, 106 American Express. Online, go to ldscatalog.com. Safety, 47 By mail, send $10 U.S. check or money order to Oswald, William D., 95 Exaltation, 92 Scriptures, 95 Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, Packer, Boyd K., 88 Example, 60, 72, 114 Service, 53, 57, 75, 98, 106, UT 84126-0368, USA. Perry, L. Tom, 7 Faith, 13, 21, 41, 102, 108 108, 114 To change address: Send both old and new Scott, Richard G., 44 Family, 92, 108 Simplicity, 7, 32 address information to Distribution Services at the above address. Please allow 60 days for changes to Thompson, Barbara, 114 Fasting, 75 Soberness, 50 take effect. Uchtdorf, Dieter F., 21, 53, General conference, 106 Teaching, 95, 114 Text and visual material in the Ensign may be 117 Gratitude, 41, 84 Temples, 4, 78, 92, 112 copied for incidental, noncommercial church or Wirthlin, Joseph B., 26 Happiness, 26, 92, 117 Testimony, 13, 15, 100 home use. Visual material may not be copied if Holiness, 37 restrictions are indicated in the credit line with the Trust, 26 artwork. Copyright questions should be addressed Holy Ghost, 34, 50, 100 Unity, 37, 68 to Intellectual Property Office, 50 E. North Temple Home, 98 Virtue, 78 Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3011; e-mail: Hope, 21 Welfare, 75 [email protected]. Humility, 68 Women, 44, 108, 114, 117 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, Humor, 26 Word of God, 32 UT 84126-0368, USA. Inspiration, 72 Word of Wisdom, 7 Canada Post Information: Publication Jesus Christ, 34, 75, 84, 106 Worthiness, 44, 112 Agreement #40017431 Joy, 68, 84 Zion, 37

NOVEMBER 2008 3 SATURDAY MORNING SESSION October 4, 2008 Welcome to Conference PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON

Our Heavenly Father is mindful of each one of us and our needs. May we be filled with His Spirit as we partake of the proceedings of this . . . conference.

the temple district, supported by a choir of 1,700 voices, presented a most inspirational program through song, dance, and video. The enor- mous soccer stadium where the event took place was filled with spectators. The wind had been blowing, and rain threatened. I offered a silent prayer asking Heavenly Father to look with mercy upon those who had prepared so diligently for our entertainment and whose costumes and presenta- tions would be damaged if a heavy rain or wind enveloped them. He hon- ored that prayer, and it wasn’t until the end of the show and later on that evening that rain fell in abundance. y dear brothers and sisters, A history of the Church in Brazil the past six months since was portrayed in song and dance. A Mlast we met seem to have particularly moving scene was the flown by. Much has transpired as the portrayal of Elders James E. Faust and work of the Lord has moved forward William Grant Bangerter, who served uninterrupted. as missionaries in Curitiba in 1940. As It has been my privilege, accompa- their photos were displayed on large nied by my counselors and by other screens, a tremendous cheer went up General Authorities, to dedicate three from the audience. All in all, it was a new temples: in Curitiba, Brazil; in glorious event. Panama City, Panama; and in Twin In Panama City, Panama, the they had been practicing for a year. Falls, Idaho—bringing to 128 the evening before the dedication of the They came from points as distant number of temples in operation temple there, we watched some 900 as the San Blas Islands and the throughout the world. of our youth, gathered from across Changuinola region in northeast The evening before each of the Panama. They were dressed in color- Panama. The trip to the capital city for temple dedications took place, mag- ful folkloric costumes as they danced the San Blas youth exacted three days nificent cultural events were held. In and presented messages of family, fel- of travel over land and sea. The event Curitiba, Brazil, 4,330 members from lowship, and faith. We learned that was magnificent and inspiring.

4 In preparation for our most re- located two miles (3 km) from the celebration brought together youth cent temple dedication, in Twin Falls, new temple. The evening of the per- from 14 stakes in the new temple dis- Idaho, local Church members con- formance, 3,200 young men and trict. They depicted, through song structed a huge stage at the Filer, young women entered the arena wav- and dance, both their dependence for Idaho, fairgrounds and filled the dirt ing blue and white ribbons, turning their spiritual lives on the living water arena with sod and other decorations, the arena into a representation of a from the Savior and their dependence including a large waterfall to represent great river of flowing water. Titled for their physical lives on the moun- Shoshone Falls, a popular landmark “Living Water,” from John 4:10, 14, the tain streams and rivers in their area.

NOVEMBER 2008 5 As we prayed then in response to President Kimball’s pleadings, we saw miracles unfold as country after coun- try, formerly closed to the Church, was opened. Such will transpire again as we pray with faith. Now, my brothers and sisters, we have come here to be instructed and inspired. Some of you are new in the Church. We welcome you. Some of you are struggling with problems, with challenges, with disappointments, with losses. We love you and pray for you. Many messages will be shared Full-time missionaries and Church members in Italy rejoice at the news that during the next two days. I can assure a temple will be built in Rome. you that those men and women who will speak to you have prayed about Those of us privileged to witness this of governments. Those with whom what they should say. They have event were uplifted and edified. I’ve met feel kindly toward the been inspired and impressed as I am an advocate for such events. Church and our members, and they they have sought heaven’s help and They enable our youth to participate have been cooperative and accommo- direction. in something they truly find unforget- dating. There remain, however, areas Our Heavenly Father is mindful of table. The friendships they form and of the world where our influence is each one of us and our needs. May we the memories they make will be theirs limited and where we are not allowed be filled with His Spirit as we partake forever. to share the gospel freely. As did of the proceedings of this, the 178th Next month the Mexico City President Spencer W. Kimball over 32 Semiannual General Conference of Mexico Temple will be rededicated years ago, I urge you to pray for the the Church. This is my sincere prayer, following extensive renovations. In opening of those areas, that we might and I offer it in the name of Jesus the coming months the construction share with them the joy of the gospel. Christ, amen. ■ of other temples will be completed, and open houses and dedications will take place. This morning I am pleased to announce five new temples for which sites have been acquired and which, in coming months and years, will be built in the following locations: Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Córdoba, Argentina; the greater Kansas City area; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Rome, Italy. Brothers and sisters, our mission- ary force, serving throughout the world, continues to seek out those who are searching for the truths which are found in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Church is steadily grow- ing; it has since its organization over 178 years ago. It has been my privilege during the past six months to meet with leaders of countries and with representatives Saints gather outside a meetinghouse in Córdoba, Argentina.

6 to the exertion of walking, we’d just sit in the car and talk. Walden Pond Let Him Do It was our special place to pause, reflect, and heal. Perhaps it was partly due to its history—its connection to the efforts of Henry David Thoreau to with Simplicity separate himself from worldliness for ELDER L. TOM PERRY a period of years—that Walden Pond offered us so much hope for simplic- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ity and provided such a renewing escape from our overly complex lives. In our search to obtain relief from the stresses of life, It was in March of 1845 that may we earnestly seek ways to simplify our lives. Thoreau decided to move out on the banks of Walden Pond and spend two years trying to figure out what life was all about. He settled on a piece of property owned by his good friend should have these hopeful words of Ralph Waldo Emerson. He purchased Robert Browning etched in our an old shanty from a railroad worker, minds: “The best is yet to be” (“Rabbi and tore it down. From the lumber Ben Ezra,” in Charles W. Eliot, ed., The from the shanty and the lumber from Harvard Classics, 50 vols. [1909–10], the woods, he constructed his own 42:1103). We can’t predict all the cabin. He kept meticulous financial struggles and storms in life, not even records, and he concluded that for a the ones just around the next corner, home and freedom he spent a mere but as persons of faith and hope, we $28.12. He planted a garden, where know beyond the shadow of any he sowed peas, potatoes, corn, beans, doubt that the gospel of Jesus Christ and turnips to help sustain his simple is true and the best is yet to come. life. He planted two and a half acres of I remember a particular period of beans with the intent of using the my life when I was under unusual small profit to cover his needs. Small stress. There were troubles with my profit indeed: $8.71. employment, and at the same time, Thoreau lived quite independent my wife was diagnosed with a life- of time. He had neither a clock nor a hose of us who have been threatening illness. This was one of calendar in his little cabin. He spent around a while—and Elder those times when it felt like the adver- his time writing and studying the TWirthlin and I have been around sary had mounted a frontal assault beauties and wonder of nature that for a long time—have recognized cer- against me and my family. On days surrounded him, including local tain patterns in life’s test. There are when the stresses and anxieties of our plants, birds, and animals. He did not cycles of good and bad times, ups and tumultuous life were about to get the live the life of a hermit—he visited the downs, periods of joy and sadness, best of us, my wife and I found a way town of Concord most days, and he and times of plenty as well as scarcity. to relieve them. invited others to come into his cabin When our lives turn in an unantici- We drove to a place just a few miles for enlightening conversations. When pated and undesirable direction, from our home to get away for a few the two years ended, he left his cabin sometimes we experience stress and moments of relief from our troubles, behind without regret. He considered anxiety. One of the challenges of this talk, and give emotional comfort to the time he had spent there a proper mortal experience is to not allow the each other. Our place was Walden amount of time to accomplish his pur- stresses and strains of life to get the Pond. It was a beautiful little pond pose—to experience the spiritual ben- better of us—to endure the varied surrounded by forests of trees. When efits of a simplified lifestyle. He also seasons of life while remaining posi- my wife was feeling strong enough, felt he had other life experiences tive, even optimistic. Perhaps when we’d go for a walk around the pond. ahead of him. It was time to move on difficulties and challenges strike, we Other days, when she did not feel up and explore other opportunities.

NOVEMBER 2008 7 and shall walk and not faint. “And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them” (vv. 18–21). There is no better counsel con- cerning the Word of Wisdom than that found in the booklet For the Strength of Youth. It states: “The Lord has commanded you to take good care of your body. To do this, observe the Word of Wisdom, found in Doctrine and Covenants 89. Eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. When you do all these things, you remain free from From his experiences at Walden bless us both physically and spiritu- harmful addictions and have control Pond, Thoreau determined that there ally, the Lord also revealed to us a law over your life. You gain the blessings were only four things that a man of health, telling us which foods and of a healthy body, an alert mind, and really needed: food, clothing, shelter, substances are good for the body and the guidance of the Holy Ghost. . . . and fuel. I would like to expand on which are not. With these instructions “Any drug, chemical, or dangerous each of these four basic needs of life, comes the promise found in section practice that is used to produce a sen- as well as the spiritual benefits of a 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants: sation or ‘high’ can destroy your phys- simplified lifestyle. “And all saints who remember to ical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The first requirement is food. As keep and do these sayings, walking in These include hard drugs, prescrip- members of The Church of Jesus obedience to the commandments, tion or over-the-counter medications Christ of Latter-day Saints, we possess shall receive health in their navel and that are abused, and household sacred knowledge from revealed truth marrow to their bones; chemicals” ([2001], 36–37). about the relationship between the “And shall find wisdom and great We do not want to harm our mor- body and the spirit. Doctrine and treasures of knowledge, even hidden tal bodies, for they are a gift from Covenants 88:15 states, “The spirit treasures; God, and part of our Heavenly and the body are the soul of man.” To “And shall run and not be weary, Father’s great plan of happiness is the

8 reuniting of our immortal bodies with of life, it was the people whose “man- means. Our income should deter- our spirits. ner of dress was exceedingly fine” who mine the kind of housing we can Another basic necessity is our clothing. mocked those who partook of the afford, not the neighbor’s big home A simplified life that brings spiritual fruit of the tree. It is sobering to real- across the street. blessings requires the wearing of sim- ize that the fashion-conscious mock- President Heber J. Grant once said: ple and modest clothing. Our dress ers in the great and spacious building “From my earliest recollections, from and grooming send a message to oth- were responsible for embarrassing the days of Brigham Young until now, ers about who we are, and they also many, and those who were ashamed I have listened to men standing in affect the way we act around others. “fell away into forbidden paths and the pulpit . . . urging the people When we are modestly dressed, we were lost” (1 Nephi 8:27–28). not to run into debt; and I believe also invite the Spirit of the Lord to be President N. Eldon Tanner once that the great majority of all our a shield and a protection to us. cautioned us with these words: troubles today is caused through Worldly trends in women’s fashion “Modesty in dress is a quality of mind the failure to carry out that counsel” are always inviting extremes. With and heart, born of respect for oneself, (in Conference Report, Oct. 1921, 3). their latest styles many fashion one’s fellowmen, and the Creator of One of the better ways to simplify designers appear to be trying to make us all. Modesty reflects an attitude of our lives is to follow the counsel we two or three dresses out of the humility, decency, and propriety. have so often received to live within amount of fabric necessary for one. Consistent with these principles and our income, stay out of debt, and save Mostly, they are taking too much off guided by the Holy Spirit, let parents, for a rainy day. We should practice and the top and too much off the bottom teachers, and youth discuss the par- increase our habits of thrift, industry, of women’s clothing, and occasionally ticulars of dress, grooming, and per- economy, and frugality. Members of a they scrimp in the middle too. Men’s sonal appearance, and with free well-managed family do not pay inter- fashions are also adopting extreme agency accept responsibility and est; they earn it. styles. In my day they would be called choose the right” (“Friend to Friend,” Thoreau’s final necessity was fuel. sloppy and inappropriate. I believe Friend, June 1971, 3). We have been hearing a lot about fuel very casual dress is almost always fol- Now let us turn to Thoreau’s and energy—about their high cost lowed by very casual manners. third requirement, that of shelter. and limited supply, our unsafe and Many of you are trying too hard to Newspapers are filled with reports of unpredictable dependence on their be unique in your dress and grooming the current housing crisis. We have suppliers, and the need for new and to attract what the Lord would con- been encouraged at almost every sustainable sources of energy. I leave sider the wrong kind of attention. In general conference of the Church I the discussion of these complicated the Book of Mormon story of the tree can remember not to live beyond our issues to leaders of government and

NOVEMBER 2008 9 industry. The fuel I want to discuss is spiritual fuel. The Lord has given us a beautiful Go Ye Therefore plan about how we can return to Him, but the completion of our mor- SILVIA H. ALLRED tal journey requires spiritual fuel. We First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency want to emulate the five wise virgins, who had stored sufficient fuel to accompany the bridegroom when he We can all participate in missionary work. This is came (see Matthew 25:6–10). What is the Lord’s work, and He will help us do it. required to maintain a sufficient store of spiritual fuel? We must acquire knowledge of God’s eternal plan and our role in it, and then by living righ- unto Christ by helping them receive teously, surrendering our will to the the restored gospel through faith in will of the Lord, we receive the prom- Jesus Christ and His Atonement, ised blessings. repentance, baptism, receiving the As Elder William R. Bradford taught gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring at this pulpit: “In righteousness there to the end.”4 is great simplicity. In every case that I would like to speak and testify of confronts us in life there is either a the significant impact and the bless- right way or a wrong way to proceed. ings of missionary work in the lives of If we choose the right way, we are sus- converts, future generations, and mis- tained in our actions by the principles sionaries and of how we can partici- of righteousness, in the which there is pate in missionary work. power from the heavens. If we choose When I was 14 years old, on a the wrong way and act on that choice, beautiful August morning, Elder Prina there is no such heavenly promise and Elder Perkins knocked at our or power, and we are alone and are door. They began teaching our family destined to fail” (“Righteousness,” about the true nature of God. In the Liahona, Jan. 2000, 103; Ensign, Nov. he Lord taught that “except a visits that followed, they taught us 1999, 85). man be born of water and of the how to pray. They also taught us Just before Thoreau died, he was Spirit, he cannot enter into the about the Restoration and the plan T 1 asked if he had made peace with God. kingdom of God.” Baptism is, there- of salvation. After the third or fourth He replied, “I was not aware we had fore, essential for our salvation. visit, most of my family stopped lis- ever quarreled” (in Mardy Grothe, Before the resurrected Savior tening to the missionaries, except for comp., Viva la Repartee [2005], 181). ascended to heaven, He instructed my 17-year-old sister, Dina, and me. In our search to obtain relief from His disciples, “Go ye therefore, and We both felt the witness of the Holy the stresses of life, may we earnestly teach all nations, baptizing them in Ghost in our hearts and received the seek ways to simplify our lives. May the name of the Father, and of the spiritual confirmation that the mes- we comply with the inspired counsel Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching sage was true. and direction the Lord has given us in them to observe all things whatsoever We bought a copy of the Book of the great plan of happiness. May we I have commanded you.”2 Mormon and began reading it. Every be worthy to have the companionship At the time of the Restoration, He day after school, we would race home of the Holy Ghost and follow the repeated His mandate: “Wherefore, to get to the book first. While the first guidance of the Spirit as we navigate you are called to cry repentance unto one home was reading, the other one this mortal journey. May we prepare this people.”3 impatiently waited until mealtime, ate ourselves to accomplish the ultimate The Lord’s Church has the respon- in a hurry, and then took her turn purpose of this mortal test—to return sibility to preach the gospel in the reading until bedtime. Such was the and live with our Heavenly Father— world. This is the foundation of mis- excitement we felt. We started attend- is my prayer in the name of Jesus sionary work, and the duty of our mis- ing church, and soon we asked to be Christ, amen. ■ sionaries is to “invite others to come baptized. Our father readily gave his

10 Full-time missionaries in Rome, Italy, invite others to come unto Christ with the Book of Mormon. permission, but our mother was hesi- due time, we both served full-time mis- planning his baptismal service with tant, and it took one more month to sions in the Central America Mission. great anticipation. He asked his persuade her to sign the permission My mission had a great impact on mother if I could be one of the speak- slip. On the day of our baptism, she my life. I learned to rely more on the ers and share my conversion story. and the rest of our siblings went to Lord, to seek the guidance of the When I asked him why he wanted me church for the first time. She felt the Spirit, and to feel an overwhelming to do that, he replied, “Grandma, that Spirit. After hearing our testimonies, love for God’s children. My knowl- is so important. Do you realize that she went to the missionaries and edge of the scriptures and my under- if you hadn’t accepted the gospel, asked them to start teaching her standing of the doctrines increased. I wouldn’t be getting baptized? I again. A few weeks later, Mother and So did my desire to be obedient and wouldn’t even be who I am.” our younger sister and brothers were to keep the commandments with I don’t know if missionaries realize baptized. My life changed forever, and exactness. My testimony of the Savior the far-reaching impact of their work. the gospel of Jesus Christ became the and His infinite Atonement was In my own family, the blessings of the compelling force in my life. strengthened. My missionary experi- gospel have now touched four genera- Words fail to express the deep feel- ences became part of who and what I tions. Didn’t President Gordon B. ings of gratitude for the Lord and the am. Missionary work became my pas- Hinckley say that “when we save a girl, missionaries He sent to our home. The sion. It has impacted my life and that we save generations”?6 I got married in Lord blessed me with the knowledge of my family more than anything else. the temple and have eight children. of the restored gospel, and I felt an Elder Jeffrey R. Holland describes They are all faithful members of the urgency to share this knowledge with the impact his mission has had in his Church, endowed in the temple. Six others. I wanted to be a missionary. life with these words: “My mission of them are now married and have Within months, my sister Dina and means everything to me 47 years after their own children. At present there I were called as local missionaries in the fact. There may have been one are 34 of us. And that is not all. Both San Salvador. This calling gave us the day in those 47 years that I have not my husband and I served missions, opportunity to go door to door to thought of my mission; I’m just not and our two sons and three of our six share the glad news of the restored sure what day that would have been.”5 daughters have also served missions. gospel of Jesus Christ and bring many A couple of years ago, my grand- Collectively we have helped hundreds people to the waters of baptism. In son Christian was turning eight and embrace the gospel in many countries.

NOVEMBER 2008 11 • Give your best efforts to finding those who are seeking the truth. • If you have family members or friends on missions, send them let- ters of love and encouragement, and pray for them.

You will experience joy in the fruits of your labor. A greater enthusiasm for missionary work will strengthen your entire ward or branch. The whole Church will feel the effects of your labor. When our daughter Margie was in the second grade, she invited her best friend to go with her to Primary. Both A missionary couple shares a message in Nigeria. were assigned parts for the sacrament meeting presentation. Her friend’s Some of those converts and their chil- smile radiate love, peace, and happi- father had rejected the missionaries dren have also served missions. ness. Live a gospel-centered life. in the past, but when Margie showed Missionary work is the lifeblood of Then, be more specific in your mis- up in his house with a handful of the Church. There is no greater work, sionary efforts. Let me suggest some Church pamphlets, he listened care- no more important work. It blesses ideas. You might find two or three fully to her simple explanations and the lives of all those who participate that work for you: testimony of Joseph Smith and the in it. It will continue blessing future First Vision. He not only allowed his generations. • If you have children at home, daughter to continue going to You might be asking yourself: help prepare them for missionary Primary but also gave her permission How can I assist in missionary work? service. to receive the lessons from the mis- In what ways can I participate? There • Prepare yourself for missionary sionaries and be baptized. He and his are two fundamental truths to keep service. wife attended the baptismal service. in mind as you embark on the work. • Invite family and friends to listen to We can all participate in missionary First, have a clear understanding the missionaries or to attend our work. This is the Lord’s work, and He that God loves all His children and Church meetings and activities. will help us do it. His gospel has to go desires their salvation. In Doctrine • Accompany the missionaries to to every nation, and we can be instru- and Covenants 18:13 we read, “And investigators’ homes, or invite the ments in His hands to bless the lives how great is his joy in the soul missionaries to teach nonmembers of others by sharing with them His that repenteth.” Second, our mes- in your home. truth. We will be greatly blessed in the sage of Christ and His restored • Invite people to a family home process. gospel is the most important gift evening in your home. We are the children of a loving you have to give. • Invite people to a family history Heavenly Father. He sent His Son to As outlined in Preach My Gospel, center, or help them do family open the way so we can live with Him missionary work is a four-fold history research. forever. Of this I testify in the name of endeavor: finding investigators, teach- • Give referrals to the missionaries. Jesus Christ, amen. ■ ing and baptizing, fellowshipping new Members can be the greatest and members, and fellowshipping and best source of referrals. NOTES 1. John 3:5. 7 teaching less-active members. Every • Share your beliefs and testimony 2. Matthew 28:19–20. member of the Church—children, with nonmember friends and 3. D&C 18:14. 4. Preach My Gospel (2004), 1. youth, and adults—can assist in any family. 5. Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Atonement” (semi- or all of these efforts. • Seek for opportunities to reach out nar for new mission presidents, June 26, Begin by being a good neighbor to others. 2007), 1. 6. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Our Responsibility to and a good friend. Set an example of • Extend friendship to investigators Our Young Women,” Ensign, Sept. 1988, 10. righteousness and kindness. Let your and new converts. 7. See Preach My Gospel, 219.

12 nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things.”2 You Know Enough I once visited a mission in south- ern Europe. I arrived on the day a ELDER NEIL L. ANDERSEN new missionary was preparing to Of the Presidency of the Seventy return home at his own insistence. He had his ticket to leave the next day. We sat together in the mission As disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, we have enormous president’s home. The missionary spiritual reservoirs of light and truth available to us. . . . told me about his challenging child- In our days of difficulty, we choose the road of faith. hood, of learning disorders, of mov- ing from one family to another. He spoke sincerely of his inability to learn a new language and adapt to a new of Christ is what we do when these culture. Then he added, “Brother feelings come. Andersen, I don’t even know if God Nearly 40 years ago as I contem- loves me.” As he said those words, I plated the challenge of a mission, I felt a sure and forceful feeling come felt very inadequate and unprepared. into my spirit: “He does know I love I remember praying, “Heavenly him. He knows it.” Father, how can I serve a mission I let him continue for a few more when I know so little?” I believed in minutes, and then I said, “Elder, I’m the Church, but I felt my spiritual sympathetic to much of what you’ve knowledge was very limited. As I said, but I must correct you on one prayed, the feeling came: “You don’t thing: you do know God loves you. know everything, but you know You know He does.” enough!” That reassurance gave me As I said those words to him, the the courage to take the next step into same Spirit that had spoken to me the mission field. spoke to him. He bowed his head and Our spiritual journey is the began to cry. He apologized. “Brother process of a lifetime. We do not know Andersen,” he said, “I do know God rejoice with you in being members everything in the beginning or even loves me; I do know it.” He didn’t of The Church of Jesus Christ of along the way. Our conversion comes know everything, but he knew I Latter-day Saints. As President step-by-step, line upon line. We first enough. He knew God loved him. Monson shared the wonderful news build a foundation of faith in the Lord That priceless piece of spiritual knowl- of five new temples, I thought how Jesus Christ. We treasure the princi- edge was sufficient for his doubt to be across the world, on every continent, ples and ordinances of repentance, replaced with faith. He found the in large cities and in small villages, baptism, and receiving the gift of the strength to stay on his mission. we are a great family of believers. Holy Ghost. We include a continuing Brothers and sisters, we each have Together, we have begun our march commitment to prayer, a willingness moments of spiritual power, moments toward eternal life. It is the journey of to be obedient, and an ongoing wit- of inspiration and revelation. We must journeys. We go forward, taking upon ness of the Book of Mormon. (The sink them deep into the chambers of us “the name of Christ, having a deter- Book of Mormon is powerful spiritual our souls. As we do, we prepare our mination to serve him to the end.”1 nourishment.) spiritual home storage for moments of While there are many experiences We then remain steady and patient personal difficulty. Jesus said, “Settle like the one we are having today, full as we progress through mortality. this in your hearts, that ye will do the of spiritual power and confirmation, At times, the Lord’s answer will be, things which I shall teach, and com- there are also days when we feel inad- “You don’t know everything, but you mand you.”3 equate and unprepared, when doubt know enough”—enough to keep the Several years ago a friend of mine and confusion enter our spirits, when commandments and to do what had a young daughter die in a tragic we have difficulty finding our spiritual is right. Remember Nephi’s words: accident. Hopes and dreams were footing. Part of our victory as disciples “I know that he loveth his children; shattered. My friend felt unbearable

NOVEMBER 2008 13 Hadley Peay is now seven years old. Hadley was born with a very seri- ous hearing impairment requiring extensive surgery to bring even lim- ited hearing. Her parents followed with tireless training to help her learn to speak. Hadley and her family have cheerfully adapted to the challenge of her deafness. Once, when Hadley was four, she was standing in the checkout line at the grocery store with her mother. She looked behind her and saw a little boy sitting in a wheelchair. She noticed that the boy did not have legs. Although Hadley had learned to speak, she had difficulty controlling the volume of her voice. In her louder voice, she asked her mother why the little boy did not have legs. Her mother quietly and simply explained to Hadley that “Heavenly Father makes all of His children differ- ent.” “OK,” Hadley replied. Then, unexpectedly, Hadley turned to the little boy and said, “Did you know that when Heavenly Father sorrow. He began to question what Challenges, difficulties, questions, made me, my ears did not work? That he had been taught and what he had doubts—these are part of our mortal- makes me special. He made you with taught as a missionary. The mother ity. But we are not alone. As disciples no legs, and that makes you special. of my friend wrote me a letter and of the Lord Jesus Christ, we have When Jesus comes, I will be able to asked if I would give him a blessing. enormous spiritual reservoirs of light hear and you will get your legs. Jesus As I laid my hands upon his head, I and truth available to us. Fear and will make everything all right.” felt to tell him something that I had faith cannot coexist in our hearts at “Except ye . . . become as little chil- not thought about in exactly the the same time. In our days of diffi- dren, ye shall not enter into the king- same way before. The impression culty, we choose the road of faith. dom of heaven.” that came to me was: Faith is not only Jesus said, “Be not afraid, only Hadley knew enough. a feeling; it is a decision. He would believe.”4 Jesus is the Christ. He is resur- need to choose faith. Through the years we take these rected. He is our Savior and Redeemer. My friend did not know everything, important spiritual steps over and All will be made well when He comes but he knew enough. He chose the over again. We begin to see that “he again. This is His holy work. Through road of faith and obedience. He got that receiveth light, and continueth in the Prophet Joseph Smith, His priest- on his knees. His spiritual balance God, receiveth more light; and that hood was restored upon the earth returned. light groweth brighter and brighter and His prophet today is President It has been several years since that until the perfect day.”5 Our questions Thomas S. Monson. I so testify in the event. A short time ago I received a and doubts are resolved or become name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ letter from his son who is now serving less concerning to us. Our faith NOTES a mission. It was full of conviction and becomes simple and pure. We come 1. Moroni 6:3. testimony. As I read his beautiful let- to know what we already knew. 2. 1 Nephi 11:17. ter, I saw how a father’s choice of Jesus said, “Except ye . . . become 3. Joseph Smith Translation, Luke 14:28. 4. Mark 5:36. faith in a very difficult time had as little children, ye shall not enter 5. D&C 50:24. deeply blessed the next generation. into the kingdom of heaven.”6 6. Matthew 18:3.

14 30 years ago, but I will honor and bless his name forever. Because My My father was the son of Lithuanians, but he was born in Scotland. He moved to Brazil when he was still young. His ability to speak Father Read the English facilitated his conversion since he could read the Book of Mormon in English, and there was not yet a reliable translation into Portuguese. Book of Mormon This language barrier prevented my ELDER MARCOS A. AIDUKAITIS mother from joining the Church until Of the Seventy a few years later, but when she did, she became a powerful example of dedication to others and love of God I invite all who hear me today to read the Book of Mormon in our family. She is now 92 years old, and to apply the promise it contains. Those who do will and she is here today. It gives me great know that the book is true. joy to say that I love her for her great faithfulness. I will also honor and bless her name forever. I admire the courage my father had to be baptized into the Church in baptized into this Church. spite of the circumstances he faced at Writing to his father, Elder Jack the time. It was not easy for him. His McDonald, one of the missionaries wife did not get baptized with him. who baptized my father, described The vices of drinking alcohol and the day with these words: smoking were strong temptations for “Last Sunday was an especially him. He was poor. His mother was beautiful day. We missionaries went against his joining the Church, and out to a secluded spot on the river’s she told him that if he were baptized, edge, out in the country, and there she would no longer consider him Elder Jones and I [Elder McDonald] her son. With fewer than 300 mem- made our first baptism. Antony bers in Brazil, the Church did not Aidukaitis entered into the icy waters have a single chapel there. I am truly and became a member of the Church. astonished by my father’s determina- . . . Everything was perfect. The sky tion and courage. so blue, the countryside so still, so How could he make such a decision green, so lovely that none of us could in the face of so many unfavorable cir- help feeling the presence of some cumstances? The answer is simple: it ood morning, dear brothers great influence. was because my father read the Book and sisters. I feel a profound “[As we walked] with our new of Mormon. When he read it, he came Gjoy and honor in speaking to member, he said that he just couldn’t to know of the truthfulness of the mes- you today. I pray that God may guide explain how wonderful this day had sage of the Restoration. The Book of my words and that His Spirit may be been for him, how he actually felt like Mormon is a proof that The Church of with us so that “he that preacheth a new man. . . . That was our first bap- Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true. and he that receiveth, [may] under- tism—no credit to me or anybody. He Preach My Gospel teaches that “the stand one another, and both [may converted himself.” Book of Mormon, combined with the be] edified and rejoice together” This event changed the history of Spirit, is [the] most powerful resource (D&C 50:22). my life. I am not sure my father was in conversion” ([2004], 104). I consider June 2, 1940, to be a able to foresee the wisdom of his act, President Gordon B. Hinckley very important day in the history of but I love him for what he did that declared: “Those who have read [the my family. On this day my father was day. He passed away more than Book of Mormon] prayerfully, be they

NOVEMBER 2008 15 rich or poor, learned or unlearned, resolution to walk in obedience to still refuses to read it. I feel sad that have grown under its power. . . . His commandments and a stronger some people allow themselves to be “. . . Without reservation I promise testimony of the living reality of the influenced by others, refuse to inves- you that if you will prayerfully read Son of God. tigate the book, and set it aside as the Book of Mormon, regardless of When you know that the Book something without worth, never par- how many times you previously have of Mormon is true, you know that ticipating in the spiritual banquet it read it, there will come into your Joseph Smith was called by God to offers. To me, this is incomprehensi- hearts . . . the Spirit of the Lord. restore the Church of Jesus Christ ble. It is as if a son or a daughter, sep- There will come a strengthened reso- to the earth. You know that Joseph arated from a loving father, refused to lution to walk in obedience to his Smith saw the Father and the Son. read a letter from him without even commandments, and there will come You know that there is only one faith opening the envelope. Those who a stronger testimony of the living real- and one valid baptism. You know that make such a choice are like spoiled ity of the Son of God” (“The Power of a prophet of God lives on the earth children who refuse to even taste the the Book of Mormon,” Ensign, June today and that he has all the keys of meal tenderly prepared for them by 1988, 6; see also “The Book of the priesthood and the right to exer- their loving mother. Mormon,” Tambuli, Oct. 1988, 7). cise them, as Peter did anciently. You God reveals His truth when people These promises came true for my know that Jesus Christ is the Son of follow Moroni’s exhortation in father and for my family. In accor- God, the only name whereby you can Moroni 10:3–5. Preach My Gospel dance with what we have been receive salvation. You know that God summarizes Moroni’s instructions as taught, we read the scriptures as a the Father lives and that He loves us. follows: family every day. We have done so for You know that His plan of salvation is many years. We have read the Book perfect, and you have the desire to • One, “read the Book of Mormon of Mormon several times in our perform ordinances, live the com- and ponder its message concern- home, and we will continue to do so. mandments, and endure to the end. ing Jesus Christ.” As promised, the Spirit of the Lord I feel sad when someone who has • Two, “pray to God with faith in has come into the heart of our fam- been given the Book of Mormon and Jesus Christ to receive a testimony ily, and we have felt a strengthened had these things explained to him that the Book of Mormon is true

16 and that Joseph Smith is the prophet of the Restoration.” • Three, “pray sincerely and have Sacrament Meeting real intent, which means that they intend to act on the answer they receive from God” (111). and the Sacrament To those who may argue that we ELDER DALLIN H. OAKS cannot know these things, I testify that we can, when we are humble Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles enough to do as God has instructed us through His prophets on this The ordinance of the sacrament makes the sacrament meeting earth. To believe otherwise would be the most sacred and important meeting in the Church. to accept the absurd notion that God also does not know where truth can be found or does not have the power to show it to us. Just because some- one has not acted on the promise of unto you to rest from your labors, and this book does not mean that others to pay thy devotions unto the Most have not done so. High” (D&C 59:9–10). Why do I love and honor the name This is a commandment with a of my father? Because my father read promise. By participating weekly and and acted on the promise of the Book appropriately in the ordinance of the of Mormon. Why do I love and honor sacrament we qualify for the promise the name of my father? Because he that we will “always have his Spirit did not recoil from the answer he to be with [us]” (D&C 20:77). That received, even while facing great Spirit is the foundation of our testi- challenges. Why do I love and honor mony. It testifies of the Father and the name of my father? Because he the Son, brings all things to our blessed my life, even before I was remembrance, and leads us into born, by having the courage to do truth. It is the compass to guide us what God expected him to do. on our path. This gift of the Holy I invite all who hear me today Ghost, President Wilford Woodruff to read the Book of Mormon and taught, “is the greatest gift that can to apply the promise it contains. e live in the perilous times be bestowed upon man” (Deseret Those who do will know that the prophesied by the Apostle Weekly, Apr. 6, 1889, 451). book is true. WPaul (see 2 Timothy 3:1). I bear my testimony that the Those who try to walk the straight and I. Book of Mormon is the word of God. narrow path see inviting detours on The ordinance of the sacrament Because of this, I know that Joseph every hand. We can be distracted, makes the sacrament meeting the Smith is a prophet of God. I know degraded, downhearted, or depressed. most sacred and important meeting that he did not write the Book of How can we have the Spirit of the Lord in the Church. It is the only Sabbath Mormon but translated it by the to guide our choices and keep us on meeting the entire family can attend power of God. I know that Thomas S. the path? together. Its content in addition to Monson is a prophet of God on the In modern revelation the Lord gave the sacrament should always be earth today, the only man on the the answer in this commandment: planned and presented to focus our earth who holds all the keys of the “And that thou mayest more fully attention on the Atonement and priesthood and has the right to exer- keep thyself unspotted from the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. cise them. I know that Jesus Christ is world, thou shalt go to the house of My first memories of sacrament our Savior and that He lives. I know prayer and offer up thy sacraments meeting are set in the small Utah town that God lives and loves us. In the upon my holy day; where I was ordained a deacon and name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ “For verily this is a day appointed participated in passing the sacrament.

NOVEMBER 2008 17 Measured against those memories, priesthood leaders of the Church how salvation, President Joseph Fielding the sacrament meetings I now attend to plan and conduct sacrament meet- Smith teaches that we partake of the in many different wards are greatly ings. “We commemorate His Atone- sacrament as our part of commemo- improved. Typically the sacrament is ment in a very personal way,” Elder rating the Savior’s death and suffer- administered, passed, and received by Nelson said. “We bring a broken heart ings for the redemption of the world. the members in an atmosphere of and a contrite spirit to our sacrament This ordinance was introduced so that quiet reverence. The conducting of meeting. It is the highlight of our we can renew our covenants to serve the meeting, including the necessary Sabbath-day observance” (“Worship- Him, to obey Him, and to always business, is brief and dignified, and ing at Sacrament Meeting,” Liahona, remember Him. President Smith adds: the talks are spiritual in content and Aug. 2004, 12; Ensign, Aug. 2004, 26). “We cannot retain the Spirit of the delivery. The music is appropriate, and We are seated well before the Lord if we do not consistently comply so are the prayers. This is the stan- meeting begins. “During that quiet with this commandment” (Doctrines dard, and it represents great progress interval, prelude music is subdued. of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. since the experiences of my youth. This is not a time for conversation or McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 2:341). There are occasional exceptions. I transmission of messages but a period sense that some in the rising genera- of prayerful meditation as leaders and III. tion and even some adults have not yet members prepare spiritually for the How we dress is an important indi- come to understand the significance sacrament” (Liahona, Aug. 2004, 13; cator of our attitude and preparation of this meeting and the importance of Ensign, Aug. 2004, 27). for any activity in which we will individual reverence and worship in it. When the Savior appeared to the engage. If we are going swimming or The things I feel impressed to teach Nephites following His Resurrection, hiking or playing on the beach, our here are addressed to those who are He taught them that they should stop clothing, including our footwear, will not yet understanding and practicing the practice of sacrifice by the shed- indicate this. The same should be true these important principles and not yet ding of blood. Instead, “ye shall offer of how we dress when we are to par- enjoying the promised spiritual bless- for a sacrifice unto me a broken heart ticipate in the ordinance of the sacra- ings of always having His guiding Spirit and a contrite spirit” (3 Nephi 9:20). ment. It is like going to the temple. to be with them. That commandment, repeated in the Our manner of dress indicates the modern revelation directing us to par- degree to which we understand and II. take of the sacrament each week, tells honor the ordinance in which we will I begin with how members of the us how we should prepare. As Elder participate. Church should prepare themselves to Nelson taught, “Each member of the During sacrament meeting—and participate in the ordinance of the Church bears responsibility for the especially during the sacrament sacrament. In a worldwide leadership spiritual enrichment that can come service—we should concentrate on training meeting five years ago, Elder from a sacrament meeting” (Liahona, worship and refrain from all other Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of Aug. 2004, 14; Ensign, Aug. 2004, 28). activities, especially from behavior that the Twelve Apostles taught the In his writings on the doctrines of could interfere with the worship of

18 others. Even a person who slips into quiet slumber does not interfere with others. Sacrament meeting is not a time for reading books or magazines. Young people, it is not a time for whis- pered conversations on cell phones or for texting persons at other locations. When we partake of the sacrament, we make a sacred covenant that we will always remember the Savior. How sad to see persons obviously violating that covenant in the very meeting where they are making it. The music of sacrament meeting is a vital part of our worship. The scrip- tures teach that the song of the righ- teous is a prayer unto the Lord (see D&C 25:12). The First Presidency has declared that “some of the greatest sermons are preached by the singing of hymns” (Hymns, ix). How wonder- ful when every person in attendance joins in the worship of singing— especially in the hymn that helps us prepare to partake of the sacrament. All sacrament meeting music requires careful planning, always remembering that this music is for worship, not for performance. A young man in São Paulo, Brazil, receives help in preparing to attend President Joseph Fielding Smith a conference broadcast. taught: “This is an occasion when the gospel should be presented, when we IV. “But whoso among you shall do should be called upon to exercise The resurrected Lord emphasized more or less than these are not built faith, and to reflect on the mission of the importance of the sacrament upon my rock, but are built upon a our Redeemer, and to spend time in when He visited the American conti- sandy foundation; and when the rain the consideration of the saving prin- nent and instituted this ordinance descends, and the floods come, and ciples of the gospel, and not for other among the faithful Nephites. He the winds blow, and beat upon them, purposes. Amusement, laughter, light- blessed the emblems of the sacra- they shall fall” (3 Nephi 18:11–13). mindedness, are all out of place in the ment and gave them to His disciples The sacrament is the ordinance sacrament meetings of the Latter-day and the multitude (see 3 Nephi that replaced the blood sacrifices and Saints. We should assemble in the 18:1–10), commanding: burnt offerings of the Mosaic law, and spirit of prayer, of meekness, with “And this shall ye always do to with it came the Savior’s promise: devotion in our hearts” (Doctrines of those who repent and are baptized in “And whoso cometh unto me with a Salvation, 2:342). my name; and ye shall do it in remem- broken heart and a contrite spirit, him When we do this—when we join brance of my blood, which I have shed will I baptize with fire and with the in the solemnity that should always for you, that ye may witness unto the Holy Ghost” (3 Nephi 9:20). accompany the ordinance of the Father that ye do always remember sacrament and the worship of this me. And if ye do always remember me V. meeting—we are qualified for the ye shall have my Spirit to be with you. Now I speak particularly to the companionship and revelation of the “. . . And if ye shall always do these priesthood holders who officiate in Spirit. This is the way we get direction things blessed are ye, for ye are built the sacrament. This ordinance should for our lives and peace along the way. upon my rock. always be performed with reverence

NOVEMBER 2008 19 words were last spoken here, I repeat them for their benefit and that of their parents and teachers: “May I suggest that wherever possible a white shirt be worn by the deacons, teachers, and priests who handle the sacrament. For sacred ordinances in the Church we often use ceremonial clothing, and a white shirt could be seen as a gentle reminder of the white clothing you wore in the baptismal font and an anticipation of the white shirt you will soon wear into the tem- ple and onto your missions” (“This Do in Remembrance of Me,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 68). Finally, the sacrament is adminis- tered only when authorized by the one holding the keys to this priesthood ordinance. This is why the sacrament is not generally served in the home or A family in Argentina enjoys being together during a conference broadcast. at family reunions, even where there are sufficient priesthood holders avail- and dignity. Priests who offer the those who officiate in that ordinance. able. Those who officiate at the sacra- prayers in behalf of the congregation In administering discipline to Church ment table, prepare the sacrament, or should speak the words slowly and members who have committed seri- pass it to the congregation should be distinctly, expressing the terms of the ous sins, a bishop can temporarily designated by one who holds or exer- covenants and promised blessings. withdraw the privilege of partaking cises the keys of this ordinance. I refer This is a very sacred act. of the sacrament. That same authority to the bishopric or to the presidencies The teachers who prepare and the is surely available to withdraw the of the teachers or deacons quorums. deacons who pass the emblems of the privilege of officiating in that sacred “[My] house is a house of order,” the sacrament also perform a very sacred ordinance. Lord declared (D&C 132:8). act. I love President Thomas S. What I said earlier about the impor- How can we have the Spirit of the Monson’s account of how, as a 12- tance of appropriate dress for those Lord to guide our choices so that we year-old deacon, he was asked by the who receive the ordinance of the will remain “unspotted from the bishop to take the sacrament to a sacrament obviously applies with spe- world” (D&C 59:9) and on the safe bedfast brother who longed for this cial force to the young men of the path through mortality? We need to blessing. “His gratitude overwhelmed Aaronic Priesthood who officiate in qualify for the cleansing power of the me,” President Monson said. “The any part of that sacred ordinance. All Atonement of Jesus Christ. We do this Spirit of the Lord came over me. I should be well-groomed and modestly by keeping His commandment to stood on sacred ground” (Inspiring dressed. There should be nothing come to Him with a broken heart Experiences That Build Faith [1994], about their personal appearance or and a contrite spirit and in that won- 188). All who officiate in this sacred actions that would call special atten- derful weekly meeting partake of the ordinance stand on sacred ground. tion to themselves or distract anyone emblems of the sacrament and make Young men who officiate in the present from full attention to the wor- the covenants that qualify us for the ordinance of the sacrament should ship and covenant making that are the precious promise that we will always be worthy. The Lord has said: “Be ye purpose of this sacred service. have His Spirit to be with us (see clean that bear the vessels of the Lord” Elder Jeffrey R. Holland gave a D&C 20:77). That we may always (D&C 38:42). The scriptural warning valuable teaching on this subject in do so is my humble prayer, which about partaking of the sacrament general conference 13 years ago. I offer in the name of Him whose unworthily (see 1 Corinthians 11:29; Since most of our current deacons Atonement makes it all possible, 3 Nephi 18:29) surely applies also to were not even born when these even Jesus Christ, amen. ■

20 despair. She was not a woman who would sit and bemoan tragedy. She The Infinite moved. She put her faith and hope into action. And so she ran from track to track and from train to train until she finally Power of Hope found our train. It had been moved to PRESIDENT DIETER F. UCHTDORF a remote area of the station. There, at last, she found her children again. Second Counselor in the First Presidency I have often thought about that night and what my mother must have Hope in God, His goodness, and His power refreshes us endured. If I could go back in time with courage during difficult challenges. and sit by her side, I would ask her how she managed to go on in the face of her fears. I would ask about faith and hope and how she overcame despair. Germany, where her parents were liv- While that is impossible, perhaps ing. She bundled us up and somehow today I could sit by your side and by managed to get us on one of the last the side of any who might feel dis- refugee trains heading west. Travel- couraged, worried, or lonely. Today ing during that time was dangerous. I would like to speak with you about Everywhere we went, the sound of the infinite power of hope. explosions, the stressed faces, and ever-present hunger reminded us that The Importance of Hope we were in a war zone. Hope is one leg of a three-legged Along the way the train stopped stool, together with faith and charity. occasionally to get supplies. One These three stabilize our lives regard- night during one of these stops, my less of the rough or uneven surfaces mother hurried out of the train to we might encounter at the time. The search for some food for her four chil- scriptures are clear and certain about dren. When she returned, to her great the importance of hope. The Apostle horror, the train and her children Paul taught that the scriptures were were gone! written to the end that we “might y dear brothers and sisters She was weighed down with have hope.”1 and friends, what a glorious worry; desperate prayers filled her Hope has the power to fill our lives Mday for us to witness the heart. She frantically searched the with happiness.2 Its absence—when announcement of five new temples large and dark train station, urgently this desire of our heart is delayed— by our beloved prophet. What a crisscrossing the numerous tracks can make “the heart sick.”3 beautiful day for all of us. while hoping against hope that the Hope is a gift of the Spirit.4 It is a Toward the end of World War II, train had not already departed. hope that through the Atonement of my father was drafted into the Perhaps I will never know all that Jesus Christ and the power of His German army and sent to the western went through my mother’s heart and Resurrection, we shall be raised unto front, leaving my mother alone to mind on that black night as she life eternal and this because of our care for our family. Though I was only searched through a grim railroad sta- faith in the Savior.5 This kind of hope three years old, I can still remember tion for her lost children. That she is both a principle of promise as well this time of fear and hunger. We lived was terrified, I have no doubt. I am as a commandment,6 and, as with all in Czechoslovakia, and with every certain it crossed her mind that if she commandments, we have the respon- passing day, the war came nearer and did not find this train, she might sibility to make it an active part of our the danger grew greater. never see her children again. I know lives and overcome the temptation to Finally, during the cold winter of with certainty: her faith overcame her lose hope. Hope in our Heavenly 1944, my mother decided to flee to fear, and her hope overcame her Father’s merciful plan of happiness

NOVEMBER 2008 21 hope of mankind, even our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Hope is not knowledge,17 but rather the abiding trust that the Lord will fulfill His promise to us. It is confi- dence that if we live according to God’s laws and the words of His prophets now, we will receive desired blessings in the future.18 It is believing and expecting that our prayers will be answered. It is manifest in confi- dence, optimism, enthusiasm, and patient perseverance. In the language of the gospel, this hope is sure, unwavering, and active. The prophets of old speak of a “firm hope”19 and a “lively hope.”20 It is a hope glorifying God through good works. With hope comes joy and happiness.21 With hope, we can “have patience, and bear . . . [our] afflictions.”22

Things We Hope For, Things We Hope In leads to peace,7 mercy,8 rejoicing,9 and advances sickness, pollutes the soul, The things we hope for are often gladness.10 The hope of salvation is and deadens the heart. Despair can future events. If only we could look like a protective helmet;11 it is the seem like a staircase that leads only beyond the horizon of mortality into foundation of our faith12 and an and forever downward. what awaits us beyond this life. Is it anchor to our souls.13 Hope, on the other hand, is like the possible to imagine a more glorious Moroni in his solitude—even after beam of sunlight rising up and above future than the one prepared for us having witnessed the complete the horizon of our present circum- by our Heavenly Father? Because of destruction of his people—believed stances. It pierces the darkness with the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we need in hope. In the twilight of the Nephite a brilliant dawn. It encourages and not fear, for we will live forever, never nation, Moroni wrote that without inspires us to place our trust in the lov- to taste of death again.23 Because of hope we cannot receive an inheri- ing care of an eternal Heavenly Father, His infinite Atonement, we can be tance in the kingdom of God.14 who has prepared a way for those who cleansed of sin and stand pure and seek for eternal truth in a world of rel- holy before the judgment bar.24 The But Why Then Is There Despair? ativism, confusion, and of fear. Savior is the Author of our Salvation.25 The scriptures say that there must And what kind of existence can be “an opposition in all things.”15 So it What, Then, Is Hope? we hope for? Those who come unto is with faith, hope, and charity. Doubt, The complexities of language offer Christ, repent of their sins, and live despair, and failure to care for our several variations and intensities of in faith will reside forever in peace. fellowmen lead us into temptation, the word hope. For example, a tod- Think of the worth of this eternal gift. which can cause us to forfeit choice dler may hope for a toy phone; an Surrounded by those we love, we will and precious blessings. adolescent may hope for a phone call know the meaning of ultimate joy as The adversary uses despair to bind from a special friend; and an adult we progress in knowledge and in hearts and minds in suffocating dark- may simply hope that the phone will happiness. No matter how bleak the ness. Despair drains from us all that is stop ringing altogether. chapter of our lives may look today, vibrant and joyful and leaves behind I wish to speak today of the hope because of the life and sacrifice of the empty remnants of what life was that transcends the trivial and centers Jesus Christ, we may hope and be meant to be. Despair kills ambition, on the Hope of Israel,16 the great assured that the ending of the book

22 of our lives will exceed our grandest expectations. “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”26 The things we hope in sustain us during our daily walk. They uphold us through trials, temptations, and sor- row. Everyone has experienced dis- couragement and difficulty. Indeed, there are times when the darkness may seem unbearable. It is in these times that the divine principles of the restored gospel we hope in can uphold us and carry us until, once again, we walk in the light. We hope in Jesus the Christ, in the goodness of God, in the manifesta- tions of the Holy Spirit, in the knowl- edge that prayers are heard and answered. Because God has been faithful and kept His promises in the past, we can hope with confidence that God will keep His promises to us in the present and in the future. In times of distress, we can hold tightly to the hope that things will “work together for [our] good”27 as we fol- low the counsel of God’s prophets. This type of hope in God, His good- ness, and His power refreshes us with courage during difficult challenges and gives strength to those who feel threatened by enclosing walls of fear, doubt, and despair.

Hope Leads to Good Works We learn to cultivate hope the same way we learn to walk, one step at a time. As we study the scriptures, speak with our Heavenly Father daily, contradicts this hope. Like Father hope, for faith is “the substance of commit to keep the commandments Abraham, we will “against hope things hoped for.”34 of God, like the Word of Wisdom, and [believe] in hope.”30 Or, as one writer Hope is critical to both faith and to pay a full tithing, we attain hope.28 expressed, “in the depth of winter, charity. When disobedience, disap- We grow in our ability to “abound in [we find] within [us] an invincible pointment, and procrastination erode hope, through the power of the Holy summer.”31 faith, hope is there to uphold our Ghost,”29 as we more perfectly live Faith, hope, and charity comple- faith. When frustration and impa- the gospel. ment each other, and as one increases, tience challenge charity, hope braces There may be times when we must the others grow as well. Hope comes our resolve and urges us to care for make a courageous decision to hope of faith,32 for without faith, there is no our fellowmen even without expecta- even when everything around us hope.33 In like manner faith comes of tion of reward. The brighter our

NOVEMBER 2008 23 message of hope: “Fear not, little flock.”41 God will wait with “open arms to receive”42 those who give away their sins and continue in faith, hope, and charity. And to all who suffer—to all who feel discouraged, worried, or lonely— I say with love and deep concern for you, never give in. Never surrender. Never allow despair to overcome your spirit. Embrace and rely upon the Hope of Israel, for the love of the Son of God pierces all darkness, softens all sorrow, and gladdens every heart. Of this I testify and leave you my blessing in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

NOTES hope, the greater our faith. The I know from these experiences 1. Romans 15:4. stronger our hope, the purer our that it is the gospel of Jesus Christ 2. See Psalm 146:5. 3. Proverbs 13:12. charity. and our membership in The Church 4. See Moroni 8:26. The things we hope for lead us of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that 5. See Moroni 7:41. to faith, while the things we hope strengthen faith, offer a bright hope, 6. See Colossians 1:21–23. 7. See Romans 15:13. in lead us to charity. The three and lead us to charity. 8. See Psalm 33:22. qualities—faith, hope, and charity35— Hope sustains us through despair. 9. See Romans 12:12. working together, grounded on the Hope teaches that there is reason to 10. See Proverbs 10:28. 11. See 1 Thessalonians 5:8. truth and light of the restored gospel rejoice even when all seems dark 12. See Hebrews 11:1; Moroni 7:40. of Jesus Christ, lead us to abound in around us. 13. See Hebrews 6:19; Ether 12:4. good works.36 With Jeremiah I proclaim, “Blessed 14. See Ether 12:32; see also Romans 8:24. 15. 2 Nephi 2:11. is the man . . . whose hope the 16. See Jeremiah 17:13. Hope from Personal Experience Lord is.”37 17. See Romans 8:24. 18. See D&C 59:23. Each time a hope is fulfilled, it cre- With Joel I testify, “The Lord [is] 19. Alma 34:41. ates confidence and leads to greater the hope of his people, and the 20. 1 Peter 1:3. hope. I can think of many instances strength of the children of Israel.”38 21. See Psalm 146:5. 22. Alma 34:41. in my life where I learned firsthand With Nephi I declare: “Press for- 23. See Alma 11:45. the power of hope. I well remember ward with a steadfastness in Christ, 24. See 2 Nephi 2:6–10. the days in my childhood encom- having a perfect brightness of hope, 25. See Hebrews 5:9. 26. 1 Corinthians 2:9. passed by the horrors and despair of and a love of God and of all men. 27. D&C 90:24. a world war, the lack of educational Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, 28. See Romans 15:14. opportunities, life-threatening health feasting upon the word of Christ, 29. Romans 15:13. 30. Romans 4:18. issues during youth, and the challeng- and endure to the end, behold, 31. Albert Camus, in John Bartlett, comp., ing and discouraging economic expe- thus saith the Father: Ye shall have Familiar Quotations, 17th ed. (2002), 790. 39 32. See Ether 12:4. riences as a refugee. The example of eternal life.” 33. See Moroni 7:42. our mother, even in the worst of This is the quality of hope we must 34. Hebrews 11:1. times, to move forward and put faith cherish and develop. Such a mature 35. See Moroni 10:20. 36. See Alma 7:24. and hope into action, not just worry- hope comes in and through our 37. Jeremiah 17:7. ing or wishful thinking, sustained our Savior Jesus Christ, for “every man 38. Joel 3:16. family and me and gave confidence that hath this hope in him purifieth 39. 2 Nephi 31:20. 40 40. 1 John 3:3. that present circumstances would himself, even as [the Savior] is pure.” 41. D&C 6:34. give way to future blessings. The Lord has given us a reassuring 42. See Mormon 6:17.

24 SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION October 4, 2008

It is also proposed that we release Elders Gerald N. Lund and Robert R. The Sustaining Steuer as members of the Second Quorum of the Seventy. Those who wish to join us in expressing gratitude to these Brethren for their excellent of Church Officers service, please manifest it. PRESIDENT HENRY B. EYRING It is proposed that Elders Jorge A. Rojas and T. La Mar Sleight be First Counselor in the First Presidency released as Area Seventies. Those desiring to join in an expression of gratitude to these brethren, please manifest it. It is proposed that we sustain Quentin L. Cook, and D. Todd Elder Jay E. Jensen as a member of Christofferson. the Presidency of the Quorums of the Those in favor, please manifest it. Seventy. Any opposed may so indicate. All in favor, please manifest it. It is proposed that we sustain the Those opposed, if any. counselors in the First Presidency It is proposed that we sustain and the Twelve Apostles as prophets, the other General Authorities, seers, and revelators. Area Seventies, and general All in favor, please manifest it. auxiliary presidencies as presently Contrary, if there be any, by the constituted. same sign. Those in favor, please manifest it. It is proposed that we release Any opposed may manifest it. Elder Earl C. Tingey as a member of President Monson, insofar as I have the Presidency of the Quorums of the been able to observe, the voting in Seventy and Elders Earl C. Tingey and the Conference Center has been Sheldon F. Child as members of the unanimous. First Quorum of the Seventy and des- Thank you, brothers and sisters, t is proposed that we sustain ignate them as emeritus General for your sustaining vote, your faith, Thomas Spencer Monson as Authorities. devotion, and prayers. ■ Iprophet, seer, and revelator and President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; Henry Bennion Eyring as First Counselor in the First Presidency; and Dieter Friedrich Uchtdorf as Second Counselor in the First Presidency. Those in favor may manifest it. Those opposed, if any, may manifest it. It is proposed that we sustain Boyd Kenneth Packer as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the following as members of that quorum: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Bednar,

NOVEMBER 2008 25 awaited me in later years. But when- ever my steps led through seasons Come What May, of sadness and sorrow, my mother’s words often came back to me: “Come what may, and love it.” How can we love days that are filled and Love It with sorrow? We can’t—at least not in ELDER JOSEPH B. WIRTHLIN the moment. I don’t think my mother was suggesting that we suppress dis- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles couragement or deny the reality of pain. I don’t think she was suggesting The way we react to adversity can be a major factor that we smother unpleasant truths in how happy and successful we can be in life. beneath a cloak of pretended happi- ness. But I do believe that the way we react to adversity can be a major factor in how happy and successful we can be in life. “Joseph,” she said, “come what If we approach adversities wisely, may, and love it.” our hardest times can be times of I have often reflected on that greatest growth, which in turn can lead counsel. toward times of greatest happiness. I think she may have meant that Over the years I have learned a few every life has peaks and shadows and things that have helped me through times when it seems that the birds times of testing and trial. I would like don’t sing and bells don’t ring. Yet in to share them with you. spite of discouragement and adversity, those who are happiest seem to have Learn to Laugh a way of learning from difficult times, The first thing we can do is learn to becoming stronger, wiser, and hap- laugh. Have you ever seen an angry pier as a result. driver who, when someone else There may be some who think that makes a mistake, reacts as though General Authorities rarely experience that person has insulted his honor, pain, suffering, or distress. If only that his family, his dog, and his ancestors were true. While every man and all the way back to Adam? Or have hen I was young I loved woman on this stand today has experi- you had an encounter with an over- playing sports, and I have enced an abundant measure of joy, hanging cupboard door left open at W many fond memories of each also has drunk deeply from the the wrong place and the wrong time those days. But not all of them are cup of disappointment, sorrow, and which has been cursed, condemned, pleasant. I remember one day after loss. The Lord in His wisdom does not and avenged by a sore-headed victim? my football team lost a tough game, I shield anyone from grief or sadness. There is an antidote for times such came home feeling discouraged. My For me, the Lord has opened the as these: learn to laugh. mother was there. She listened to my windows of heaven and showered I remember loading up our chil- sad story. She taught her children to blessings upon my family beyond my dren in a station wagon and driving trust in themselves and each other, ability to express. Yet like everyone to Los Angeles. There were at least not blame others for their misfor- else, I have had times in my life when nine of us in the car, and we would tunes, and give their best effort in it seemed that the heaviness of my invariably get lost. Instead of getting everything they attempted. heart might be greater than I could angry, we laughed. Every time we When we fell down, she expected bear. During those times I think back made a wrong turn, we laughed us to pick ourselves up and get going to those tender days of my youth harder. again. So the advice my mother gave to when great sorrows came at the los- Getting lost was not an unusual me then wasn’t altogether unexpected. ing end of a football game. occurrence for us. Once while head- It has stayed with me all my life. How little I knew then of what ing south to Cedar City, Utah, we took

26 a wrong turn and didn’t realize it until kitchen laughing. Now, I realize that part of our on-the-job training. These two hours later when we saw the our daughter could have felt humili- experiences, while often difficult to “Welcome to Nevada” signs. We didn’t ated and embarrassed. But she bear at the time, are precisely the get angry. We laughed, and as a result, laughed with us, and as a result, we kinds of experiences that stretch anger and resentment rarely resulted. still laugh about it today. our understanding, build our charac- Our laughter created cherished mem- The next time you’re tempted to ter, and increase our compassion ories for us. groan, you might try to laugh instead. for others. I remember when one of our It will extend your life and make the Because Jesus Christ suffered daughters went on a blind date. She lives of all those around you more greatly, He understands our suffer- was all dressed up and waiting for her enjoyable. ing. He understands our grief. We date to arrive when the doorbell rang. experience hard things so that we In walked a man who seemed a little Seek for the Eternal too may have increased compassion old, but she tried to be polite. She The second thing we can do is and understanding for others. introduced him to me and my wife seek for the eternal. You may feel Remember the sublime words of and the other children; then she put singled out when adversity enters the Savior to the Prophet Joseph on her coat and went out the door. your life. You shake your head and Smith when he suffered with his com- We watched as she got into the car, wonder, “Why me?” panions in the smothering darkness but the car didn’t move. Eventually But the dial on the wheel of sor- of Liberty Jail: our daughter got out of the car and, row eventually points to each of us. At “My son, peace be unto thy soul; red faced, ran back into the house. one time or another, everyone must thine adversity and thine afflictions The man that she thought was her experience sorrow. No one is exempt. shall be but a small moment; blind date had actually come to pick I love the scriptures because they “And then, if thou endure it well, up another of our daughters who had show examples of great and noble God shall exalt thee on high; thou agreed to be a babysitter for him and men and women such as Abraham, shalt triumph over all thy foes.”1 his wife. Sarah, Enoch, Moses, Joseph, Emma, With that eternal perspective, We all had a good laugh over that. and Brigham. Each of them experi- Joseph took comfort from these In fact, we couldn’t stop laughing. enced adversity and sorrow that tried, words, and so can we. Sometimes the Later, when our daughter’s real blind fortified, and refined their characters. very moments that seem to overcome date showed up, I couldn’t come out Learning to endure times of disap- us with suffering are those that will to meet him because I was still in the pointment, suffering, and sorrow is ultimately suffer us to overcome.

NOVEMBER 2008 27 The Principle of Compensation birth to a baby, became seriously ill. The third thing we can do is under- We prayed for her, administered to stand the principle of compensation. her, and supported her as best we The Lord compensates the faithful for could. We hoped she would receive a every loss. That which is taken away blessing of healing, but days turned from those who love the Lord will be into months, and months turned into added unto them in His own way. years. At one point I told her that this While it may not come at the time affliction might be something she we desire, the faithful will know that would have to struggle with the rest every tear today will eventually be of her life. returned a hundredfold with tears of One morning I remember pulling rejoicing and gratitude. out a small card and threading it One of the blessings of the gospel through my typewriter. Among the is the knowledge that when the cur- words that I typed for her were these: tain of death signals the end of our “The simple secret is this: put your mortal lives, life will continue on the trust in the Lord, do your best, then other side of the veil. There we will be leave the rest to Him.” given new opportunities. Not even She did put her trust in God. But death can take from us the eternal her affliction did not disappear. For blessings promised by a loving years she suffered, but in due course, Heavenly Father. the Lord blessed her, and eventually Because Heavenly Father is merci- she returned to health. ful, a principle of compensation Knowing this daughter, I believe prevails. I have seen this in my may have had in raising Joseph, any that even if she had never found own life. My grandson Joseph has sacrifices they have made have been relief, yet she would have trusted in autism. It has been heartbreaking for compensated tenfold. Because of this her Heavenly Father and “[left] the his mother and father to come to choice spirit, his mother and father rest to Him.” grips with the implications of this have learned much about children affliction. with disabilities. They have witnessed Conclusion They knew that Joseph would firsthand the generosity and compas- Although my mother has long probably never be like other children. sion of family, neighbors, and friends. since passed to her eternal reward, They understood what that would They have rejoiced together as Joseph her words are always with me. I still mean not only for Joseph but for the has progressed. They have marveled remember her advice to me given on family as well. But what a joy he has at his goodness. that day long ago when my team lost been to us. Autistic children often a football game: “Come what may, and have a difficult time showing emo- Trust in the Father and the Son love it.” tion, but every time I’m with him, The fourth thing we can do is put I know why there must be opposi- Joseph gives me a big hug. While our trust in our Heavenly Father and tion in all things. Adversity, if handled there have been challenges, he has His Son, Jesus Christ. correctly, can be a blessing in our filled our lives with joy. “God so loved the world, that he lives. We can learn to love it. His parents have encouraged him gave his only begotten Son.”2 The As we look for humor, seek for the to participate in sports. When he first Lord Jesus Christ is our partner, eternal perspective, understand the started playing baseball, he was in the helper, and advocate. He wants us to principle of compensation, and draw outfield. But I don’t think he grasped be happy. He wants us to be success- near to our Heavenly Father, we can the need to run after loose balls. He ful. If we do our part, He will step in. endure hardship and trial. We can say, thought of a much more efficient way He who descended below all as did my mother, “Come what may, to play the game. When a ball was hit things will come to our aid. He will and love it.” Of this I testify in the in his direction, Joseph watched it go comfort and uphold us. He will name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ by and then pulled another baseball strengthen us in our weakness and out of his pocket and threw that one fortify us in our distress. He will make NOTES 3 1. D&C 121:7–8. to the pitcher. weak things become strong. 2. John 3:16. Any reservations that his family One of our daughters, after giving 3. See Ether 12:27.

28 angels as His emissaries in conveying love and concern for His children. The Ministry Time in this setting does not allow even a cursory examination of the scriptures or our own latter-day his- tory, which are so filled with accounts of Angels of angels ministering to those on ELDER JEFFREY R. HOLLAND earth, but it is rich doctrine and rich history indeed. Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Usually such beings are not seen. Sometimes they are. But seen or God never leaves us alone, never leaves us unaided unseen they are always near. Some- in the challenges that we face. times their assignments are very grand and have significance for the whole world. Sometimes the mes- sages are more private. Occasionally the angelic purpose is to warn. But But God knew the challenges they most often it is to comfort, to provide would face, and He certainly knew some form of merciful attention, how lonely and troubled they would guidance in difficult times. When in sometimes feel. So He watched over Lehi’s dream he found himself in a His mortal family constantly, heard frightening place, “a dark and dreary their prayers always, and sent prophets waste,” as he described it, he was met (and later apostles) to teach, counsel, by an angel, “a man . . . dressed in a and guide them. But in times of special white robe; . . . he spake unto me,” need, He sent angels, divine messen- Lehi said, “and bade me follow him.”7 gers, to bless His children, reassure Lehi did follow him to safety and ulti- them that heaven was always very mately to the path of salvation. close and that His help was always very In the course of life all of us spend near. Indeed, shortly after Adam and time in “dark and dreary” places, Eve found themselves in the lone and wildernesses, circumstances of sorrow dreary world, an angel appeared unto or fear or discouragement. Our pres- them,2 who taught them the meaning ent day is filled with global distress of their sacrifice and the atoning role over financial crises, energy problems, hen Adam and Eve willingly of the promised Redeemer who was terrorist attacks, and natural calami- stepped into mortality, they to come. ties. These translate into individual Wknew this telestial world When the time for this Savior’s and family concerns not only about would contain thorns and thistles and advent was at hand, an angel was sent homes in which to live and food avail- troubles of every kind. Perhaps their to announce to Mary that she was to able to eat but also about the ultimate most challenging realization, how- be the mother of the Son of God.3 safety and well-being of our children ever, was not the hardship and danger Then a host of angels was commis- and the latter-day prophecies about they would endure but the fact that sioned to sing on the night the baby our planet. More serious than these— they would now be distanced from Jesus was born.4 Shortly thereafter an and sometimes related to them—are God, separated from Him with whom angel would announce to Joseph that matters of ethical, moral, and spiritual they had walked and talked, who had the newborn baby was in danger and decay seen in populations large and given them face-to-face counsel. After that this little family must flee to Egypt small, at home and abroad. But I tes- this conscious choice, as the record of for safety.5 When it was safe to return, tify that angels are still sent to help us, creation says, “they saw him not; for an angel conveyed that information to even as they were sent to help Adam they were shut out from his pres- the family and the three returned to and Eve, to help the prophets, and ence.”1 Amidst all else that must have the land of their heritage.6 indeed to help the Savior of the world troubled them, surely this must have From the beginning down through Himself. Matthew records in his troubled them the most. the dispensations, God has used gospel that after Satan had tempted

NOVEMBER 2008 29 Christ in the wilderness “angels came birth to us, and in my case, one of were never to go after any cows who and ministered unto him.”8 Even the them consented to marry me. Indeed ventured across the river. They were Son of God, a God Himself, had need heaven never seems closer than always to return home and seek for heavenly comfort during His when we see the love of God mani- mature help. sojourn in mortality. And so such min- fested in the kindness and devotion One Saturday just after his sev- istrations will be to the righteous until of people so good and so pure that enth birthday, Brother Barrus’s par- the end of time. As Mormon said to angelic is the only word that comes ents promised the family a night at his son Moroni, who would one day to mind. Elder James Dunn, from this the movies if the chores were done be an angel: pulpit just moments ago, used that on time. But when young Clyn “Has the day of miracles ceased? word in his invocation to describe arrived at the pasture, the cows he “Or have angels ceased to appear this Primary choir—and why not? sought had crossed the river, even unto the children of men? Or has he With the spirit, faces, and voices of though it was running at high flood withheld the power of the Holy Ghost those children in our mind and stage. Knowing his rare night at the from them? Or will he, so long as time before our eyes, may I share with you movies was in jeopardy, he decided shall last, or the earth shall stand, or an account by my friend and BYU col- to go after the cows himself, even there shall be one man upon the face league, the late Clyn D. Barrus. I do though he had been warned many thereof to be saved? so with the permission of his wife, times never to do so. “Behold I say unto you, Nay; for . . . Marilyn, and their family. As the seven-year-old urged his old it is by faith that angels appear and Referring to his childhood on a horse, Banner, down into the cold, minister unto men. . . . large Idaho farm, Brother Barrus swift stream, the horse’s head barely “For behold, they are subject unto spoke of his nightly assignment to cleared the water. An adult sitting on [Christ], to minister according to round up the cows at milking time. the horse would have been safe, but at the word of his command, showing Because the cows pastured in a field Brother Barrus’s tender age, the cur- themselves unto them of strong faith bordered by the occasionally treach- rent completely covered him except and a firm mind in every form of erous Teton River, the strict rule in when the horse lunged forward sev- godliness.”9 the Barrus household was that during eral times, bringing Clyn’s head above I ask everyone within the sound of the spring flood season the children water just enough to gasp for air. my voice to take heart, be filled with faith, and remember the Lord has said He “would fight [our] battles, [our] children’s battles, and [the battles of our] children’s children.”10 And what do we do to merit such a defense? We are to “search diligently, pray always, and be believing[. Then] all things shall work together for [our] good, if [we] walk uprightly and remember the covenant wherewith [we] have covenanted.”11 The latter days are not a time to fear and tremble. They are a time to be believing and remember our covenants. I have spoken here of heavenly help, of angels dispatched to bless us in time of need. But when we speak of those who are instruments in the hand of God, we are reminded that not all angels are from the other side of the veil. Some of them we walk with and talk with—here, now, every day. Some of them reside in our own neighborhoods. Some of them gave

30 Here I turn to Brother Barrus’s own words: “When Banner finally climbed the other bank, I realized that my life had been in grave danger and that I had done a terrible thing—I had know- ingly disobeyed my father. I felt that I could redeem myself only by bringing the cows home safely. Maybe then my father would forgive me. But it was already dusk, and I didn’t know for sure where I was. Despair over- whelmed me. I was wet and cold, lost and afraid. “I climbed down from old Banner, fell to the ground by his feet, and began to cry. Between thick sobs, I tried to offer a prayer, repeating over and over to my Father in Heaven, ‘I’m sorry. Forgive me! I’m sorry. Forgive me!’ “I prayed for a long time. When I finally looked up, I saw through my tears a figure dressed in white walking a treacherous river to rescue a way- your left, . . . my Spirit shall be in toward me. In the dark, I felt certain it ward son.”12 your [heart], and mine angels round must be an angel sent in answer to My beloved brothers and sisters, about you, to bear you up.”14 In the my prayers. I did not move or make a I testify of angels, both the heavenly process of praying for those angels to sound as the figure approached, so and the mortal kind. In doing so I am attend us, may we all try to be a little overwhelmed was I by what I saw. testifying that God never leaves us more angelic ourselves—with a kind Would the Lord really send an angel alone, never leaves us unaided in the word, a strong arm, a declaration of to me, who had been so disobedient? challenges that we face. “[N]or will faith and “the covenant wherewith “Then a familiar voice said, ‘Son, he, so long as time shall last, or the [we] have covenanted.”15 Perhaps I’ve been looking for you.’ In the earth shall stand, or there shall be then we can be emissaries sent from darkness I recognized the voice of my one man [or woman or child] upon God when someone, perhaps a father and ran to his outstretched the face thereof to be saved.”13 On Primary child, is crying, “Darkness . . . arms. He held me tightly, then said occasions, global or personal, we may afraid . . . river . . . alone.” To this end gently, ‘I was worried. I’m glad I feel we are distanced from God, shut I pray in the sacred name of Jesus found you.’ out from heaven, lost, alone in dark Christ, amen. ■ “I tried to tell him how sorry I was, and dreary places. Often enough that NOTES but only disjointed words came out of distress can be of our own making, 1. Moses 5:4. my trembling lips—‘Thank you . . . but even then the Father of us all is 2. See Moses 5:6–8. darkness . . . afraid . . . river . . . alone.’ watching and assisting. And always 3. See Luke 1:26–38. 4. See Luke 2:8–14. Later that night I learned that when I there are those angels who come and 5. See Matthew 2:13–15. had not returned from the pasture, go all around us, seen and unseen, 6. See Matthew 2:19–23. known and unknown, mortal and 7. 1 Nephi 8:7, 5–6. my father had come looking for me. 8. Matthew 4:11. When neither I nor the cows were to immortal. 9. Moroni 7:35–37, 30. be found, he knew I had crossed the May we all believe more readily 10. D&C 98:37; emphasis added. 11. D&C 90:24. river and was in danger. Because it in, and have more gratitude for, the 12. See Clyn D. Barrus, “Coming Home,” was dark and time was of the essence, Lord’s promise as contained in one Liahona, Nov. 1995, F5–F7; Friend, Apr. he removed his clothes down to his of President Monson’s favorite scrip- 1995, 2–4. 13. Moroni 7:36. long white thermal underwear, tied tures: “I will go before your face. I 14. D&C 84:88. his shoes around his neck, and swam will be on your right hand and on 15. D&C 90:24.

NOVEMBER 2008 31 intellectual elite. In His goodness, He has ensured that the truths regarding Even a Child God are understandable to all His children, whatever their level of edu- cation or intellectual faculty. In reality, the fact that a principle Can Understand can be understood even by a child is ELDER GÉRALD CAUSSÉ proof of its power. President John Taylor said, “It is true intelligence for a Of the Seventy man to take a subject that is mysteri- ous and great in itself and to unfold God . . . has ensured that the truths regarding God are and simplify it so that a child can understandable to all His children, whatever their level understand it” (“Discourse,” Deseret News, Sept. 30, 1857, 238). Far from of education or intellectual faculty. diminishing its impact, purity and simplicity of expression allow the Holy Spirit to witness with greater certainty to the hearts of men. Joseph Smith declared, “It is impos- During His earthly ministry, Jesus sible for a man to be saved in igno- constantly compared the simplicity rance” (D&C 131:6). He added, “The and authenticity of His teachings to principle of knowledge is the principle the tortuous logic of the Pharisees of salvation . . . ; and every one that and other doctors of the law. They does not obtain knowledge sufficient tried time and again to test Him with to be saved will be condemned” sophisticated questions, but His (History of the Church, 5:387). This replies were always crystal clear and knowledge is founded on understand- childlike in their simplicity. ing the nature of God and Jesus Christ One day Jesus’s disciples asked Him and the plan of salvation that They the following question: “Who is the have prepared to allow us to return to greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Their presence. “And this is life eter- Jesus, having summoned a little nal, that they might know thee the child, set him in the midst of them only true God, and Jesus Christ, and said, “Verily I say unto you, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3). Except ye be converted, and become The principle of knowledge has as little children, ye shall not enter arents are often taken aback by often been misinterpreted by men. into the kingdom of heaven. the replies their children make “The glory of God is intelligence” “Whosoever therefore shall hum- P to questions from grown-ups. (D&C 93:36). It surpasses all we can ble himself as this little child, the One evening, when my wife and I ever understand with our intellectual same is greatest in the kingdom of were away, our children’s babysitter, capacities. People who try to find God heaven” (Matthew 18:1, 2–4). intrigued by the prayer she heard sometimes think that they have to On another occasion Jesus said, “I them saying, asked them this ques- look for Him in intellectually compli- thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven tion: “But what is the difference cated concepts. and earth, that thou hast hid these between your religion and mine?” The However, our Heavenly Father is things from the wise and prudent, reply from our eight-year-old daughter always available to us. He adapts to and hast revealed them unto babes” was immediate: “It’s almost the same, our level of understanding. “If He (Luke 10:21). except that we study a lot more than comes to a little child, He will adapt The Bible has probably been the you do!” Far from wanting to offend himself to the language and capacity subject of more interpretations and her babysitter, my little daughter just of a little child” (Joseph Smith, in philosophical debates than any other wanted to underline in her own way History of the Church, 3:392). book. However, a child reading this the importance that Latter-day Saints God would indeed be unjust if the book for the first time will have at attach to the search for knowledge. gospel were only accessible to an least as much, if not more, chance to

32 understand the doctrine as the major- Mormon, the prophet Jacob “Then went he down, and dipped ity of those doctors of the scriptures. denounced those in ancient times himself seven times in Jordan, accord- The Savior’s teachings are adapted to who “despised the words of plain- ing to the saying of the man of God: everyone. At eight years of age a child ness, and killed the prophets, and and his flesh came again like unto can have sufficient understanding to sought for things that they could not the flesh of a little child, and he was enter the waters of baptism and make understand. Wherefore, because of clean” (2 Kings 5:13–14). a covenant with God with complete their blindness, which blindness came His cleansing was not only physi- understanding. by looking beyond the mark, they cal; his spiritual flesh also was What would a child understand must needs fall; for God hath taken cleansed when he accepted this from reading the story of the baptism away his plainness from them, and beautiful lesson in humility. of Jesus? Jesus was baptized in the delivered unto them many things Little children have a marvelous river Jordan by John the Baptist. The which they cannot understand, disposition to learn. They have total Holy Ghost descended upon Him “in because they desired it” (Jacob 4:14). trust in their teacher, a pure spirit, and a bodily shape like a dove.” A voice Sometimes we may be tempted to great humility—in other words, the was heard: “Thou art my beloved Son; think, “It’s too easy,” just like Naaman, same qualities which open the door in thee I am well pleased” (Luke the Syrian captain who, constrained to the Holy Spirit. He is the channel 3:22). The child would have a clear by his pride, hesitated to obey the through whom we gain knowledge vision of what the Godhead is: three counsel of Elisha, which was too sim- of the things of the Spirit. Paul wrote distinct persons in complete unity— ple, in his eyes, to cure his leprosy. to the Corinthians, “Even so the things God the Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; His servants led him to see his folly: of God knoweth no man, but the and the Holy Ghost. “My father, if the prophet had bid Spirit of God” (1 Corinthians 2:11). Rejection of the principle of sim- thee do some great thing, wouldest And he added, “But the natural plicity and clarity has been the origin thou not have done it? how much man receiveth not the things of the of many apostasies, both collective rather then, when he saith to thee, Spirit of God: for they are foolishness and individual. In the Book of Wash, and be clean? unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually dis- cerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14). We know that the carnal or natural man is “an enemy to God . . . unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit.” For that, he must become “as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father” (Mosiah 3:19). In his philosophical short story The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint- Exupéry describes the confusion of a little boy who, on discovering a field of roses, perceives that the flower he has, which he has tended with such love, is not unique but very ordinary. Then he comes to the realization that the thing that makes his rose unique is not its outward appearance but the time and the love he has consecrated to taking care of it. He exclaims: “Men . . . raise five thousand roses in the same garden—and they do not find in it what they are looking for. . . . “And yet what they are looking for

NOVEMBER 2008 33 could be found in one single rose, or in a little water. . . . “But the eyes are blind. One must The Way look with the heart” ([1943], 79). In the same way, our knowledge of ELDER LAWRENCE E. CORBRIDGE God does not depend on the amount Of the Seventy of information we accumulate. After all, all the knowledge of the gospel which is meaningful for our salvation There is only one way to happiness and fulfillment. can be summarized in a few points Jesus Christ is the Way. of doctrine, principles, and essential commandments, which are already there in the missionary lessons we receive before baptism. Knowing God walk in darkness, but shall have the is a matter of opening our hearts to light of life.”5 gain a spiritual understanding and a He said, “I am the resurrection, fervent testimony of the truth of these and the life: he that believeth in me, few fundamental points of doctrine. though he were dead, yet shall he live: Knowing God is having a testimony “And whosoever liveth and of His existence and feeling in one’s believeth in me shall never die.”6 heart that He loves us. It is accepting He said, “I am the way, the truth, Jesus Christ as our Savior and having a and the life: no man cometh unto the fervent desire to follow His example. Father, but by me.”7 In serving God and our neighbor, Jesus Christ is the Way. He is Light we witness of Christ and allow those and Life, Bread and Water, the around us to get to know Him better. Beginning and the End, the These principles find concrete Resurrection and the Life, the Savior application in the teaching which is of the world, the Truth, and the Way. given in our wards and branches. For There is only one way to happiness you teachers of the Church, the princi- and fulfillment. He is the Way. Every pal goal of your lessons is the conver- Jesus Christ, Alpha and Omega, other way, any other way, whatever sion of hearts. The quality of a lesson the Beginning and the End other way, is foolishness. is not measured by the number of “ n the beginning was the Word, He offers a well of living water. new pieces of information that you and the Word was with God, and Either we drink and never thirst give your students. It comes from Ithe Word was God. . . . more, or we don’t and foolishly your capacity to invite the presence “In him was life; and the life was remain thirsty still. of the Spirit and to motivate your stu- the light of men.”1 He is the Bread of Life. Either dents to make commitments. It is by He said, “I am Alpha and Omega, we eat and hunger no more, or we exercising their faith by putting into Christ the Lord; yea, even I am he, the don’t and foolishly remain weak and practice the lessons taught that they beginning and the end, the Redeemer hungry still. will increase their spiritual knowledge. of the world.”2 He is the Light of the World. Either I pray that we will know how to He said, “Whosoever drinketh of we follow Him and see clearly, or we open our hearts like a little child and the water that I shall give him shall don’t and foolishly remain blind and take pleasure in hearing and practic- never thirst; but the water that I shall in darkness still. ing the word of God in all the power give him shall be in him a well of water He is the Resurrection and the Life. of its simplicity. I bear testimony that springing up into everlasting life.”3 He said, “The words that I speak unto if we do this, we will gain the knowl- He said, “I am the bread of life: you, they are spirit, and they are life.”8 edge of the “mysteries [of God] and he that cometh to me shall never Either we learn of Him and have life [the] peaceable things—that which hunger; and he that believeth on me more abundantly,9 or we don’t and bringeth joy, that which bringeth life shall never thirst.”4 foolishly remain dead still. eternal” (D&C 42:61). In the name of He said, “I am the light of the He is the Savior of the world. Jesus Christ, amen. ■ world: he that followeth me shall not Either we accept the blessings of His

34 Atonement and are made clean and And He will do all of that and much Ghost in our lives. Everything pure, worthy to have His Spirit, or we more if we but remember Him to depends on that. don’t and foolishly remain alone and keep His commandments. What then To that end, Jesus Christ entered a filthy still. shall we do? We will remember Him garden called Gethsemane, where He He is the Way. to keep His commandments. It is the overcame sin for us. He took upon only intelligent thing to do. Himself our sins. He suffered the No Other God penalty of our wrongs. He paid the “We believe in God, the Eternal Jesus Baptizes with the Holy Ghost price of our education. I don’t know Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, John the Baptist said that while he how He did what He did. I only know and in the Holy Ghost.”10 The plan of baptized with water, Jesus baptized that He did and that because He did, the Father was implemented by the “with the Holy Ghost.”12 you and I may be forgiven of our sins Son that we may have the Spirit of the Nothing in this life is of greater that we may be endowed with His Holy Ghost. The way of the Father is worth than the supernal gift of the power. Everything depends on that. the way of the Son. He said, “Thou Holy Ghost. It is the source of joy, What then shall we do? We will “take shalt have no other gods before me.”11 peace, knowledge, strength, love, upon [us] the name of [the] Son, and Only God can bless us. Only He and every other good thing. With always remember him and keep his can sustain us. Only He can cause our the Atonement, it is the power by commandments which he has given hearts to beat and give us breath. which we may be changed and made [us]; that [we] may always have his Only He can preserve and protect us. strong where we are weak. With the Spirit to be with [us].”15 Everything Only He can give us strength to bear priesthood, it is the power by which depends on that. up the burdens of life. Only He can marriages and families are sealed give us power, knowledge, peace, and together eternally.13 It is the power by “My Yoke Is Easy, joy. Only He can forgive our sins. Only which the Lord makes Himself mani- and My Burden Is Light” He can heal us. Only He can change fest unto those who believe in Him.14 One of the most popular and us and forge a godly soul. Only He Every good thing depends on getting attractive philosophies of men is to can bring us back into His presence. and keeping the power of the Holy live life your own way, do your own

NOVEMBER 2008 35 strength, knowledge, confidence, love, and joy, or we can go some other way, any other way, whatever other way, and go it alone—without His support, without His power, with- out guidance, in darkness, turmoil, doubt, grief, and despair. And I ask, which way is easier? He said, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; . . . and ye shall find rest unto your souls. “For my yoke is easy, and my bur- den is light.”23 Life is hard, but life is simple. Get on the path and never, ever give up. You never give up. You just keep on going. You don’t quit, and you will make it. Sisters in Ukraine are happy to hear counsel from Church leaders. There is only one way to happiness and fulfillment. Jesus Christ is the thing, be yourself, don’t let others tell God. It is God’s work and it is His Way. Every other way, any other way, you what to do. But the Lord said, “I “glory . . . to bring to pass the immor- whatever other way is foolishness. am the way.”16 He said, “Follow me.”17 tality and eternal life of man.”19 There I bear record of Him, even Jesus He said, “What manner of men ought is nothing else like it. Not anywhere. Christ, that He is the Son of the living ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even Not ever. God, He is the Bread of Life, He is the as I am.”18 No institution, plan, program, or Truth, He is the Resurrection and the Don’t think you can’t. We might system ever conceived by men has Life, He is the Savior and the Light of think we can’t really follow Him access to the redeeming and trans- the World. He is the Way, the only Way. because the standard of His life is forming power of the Atonement of May we have the good sense to fol- so astonishingly high as to seem Jesus Christ and the gift of the Holy low Him. In His holy name, even unreachable. We might think it is too Ghost. Therefore, while the Lord’s Jesus Christ, amen. ■ hard, too high, too much, beyond our invitation to follow Him is the high- NOTES capacity, at least for now. Don’t ever est of all, it is also achievable by 1. John 1:1, 4. 2. D&C 19:1. believe that. While the standard of the everyone, not because we are able, 3. John 4:14. Lord is the highest, don’t ever think it but because He is, and because He 4. John 6:35. is only reachable by a select few who can make us able too. “We believe 5. John 8:12. 6. John 11:25–26. are most able. that through the Atonement of 7. John 14:6. In this singular instance life’s expe- Christ, all mankind [everyone, living 8. John 6:63. rience misleads us. In life we learn and dead] may be saved, by obedi- 9. See John 10:10. 10. Articles of Faith 1:1. that the highest achievements in any ence to the laws and ordinances of 11. Exodus 20:3. human endeavor are always the most the Gospel.”20 12. John 1:33. difficult and, therefore, achievable The Lord’s way is not hard. Life is 13. See D&C 132:7, 19. 14. See 2 Nephi 26:13. only by a select few who are most hard, not the gospel. “There is an 15. D&C 20:77. able. The higher the standard, the opposition in all things,”21 every- 16. John 14:6. 17. Mark 8:34. fewer can reach it. where, for everyone. Life is hard for 18. 3 Nephi 27:27. But that is not the case here all of us, but life is also simple. We 19. Moses 1:39. because, unlike every other experi- have only two choices.22 We can either 20. Articles of Faith 1:3. 21. 2 Nephi 2:11. ence in this life, this is not a human follow the Lord and be endowed with 22. See Moroni 7:15–17. endeavor. It is, rather, the work of His power and have peace, light, 23. Matthew 11:28–30.

36 there following the conquest of 587 B.C. all combine to make Babylon Come to Zion the symbol of decadent societies and spiritual bondage. ELDER D. TODD CHRISTOFFERSON It is with this backdrop that the Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Lord said to the members of His Church, “Go ye out of Babylon; gather ye out from among the In our families and in our stakes and districts, let us seek nations, from the four winds, from to build up Zion through unity, godliness, and charity. one end of heaven to the other” (D&C 133:7). He called for the elders of His Church to be sent forth across the world to accomplish this gathering, in his days, that he built a city that commencing an effort that continues was called the City of Holiness, even in full vigor today. “And behold, and lo, Zion” (Moses 7:19). This Zion this shall be their cry, and the voice of endured for some 365 years (see the Lord unto all people: Go ye forth Moses 7:68). The scriptural record unto the land of Zion, that the borders states, “And Enoch and all his people of my people may be enlarged, and walked with God, and he dwelt in the that her stakes may be strengthened, midst of Zion; and it came to pass that and that Zion may go forth unto the Zion was not, for God received it up regions round about” (D&C 133:9). into his own bosom; and from thence And so today the Lord’s people went forth the saying, Zion is fled” are gathering “out from among the (Moses 7:69). Later, Jerusalem and its nations” as they gather into the con- temple were called Mount Zion, and gregations and stakes of The Church the scriptures prophesy of a future of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that New Jerusalem where Christ shall are scattered throughout the nations. reign as “King of Zion,” when “for the Nephi foresaw that these “dominions” space of a thousand years the earth would be small but that the Lord’s he Prophet Joseph Smith said: shall rest” (Moses 7:53, 64). power would descend “upon the “The building up of Zion is a The Lord called Enoch’s people saints of the church of the Lamb, . . . Tcause that has interested the Zion “because they were of one who were scattered upon all the face people of God in every age; it is a heart and one mind, and dwelt in of the earth; and they [would be] theme upon which prophets, priests righteousness; and there was no armed with righteousness” (see and kings have dwelt with peculiar poor among them” (Moses 7:18). 1 Nephi 14:12–14). The Lord calls delight; they have looked forward with Elsewhere He said, “For this is Zion— upon us to be beacons of righteous- joyful anticipation to the day in which the pure in heart” (D&C 97:21). ness to guide those who seek the we live; and fired with heavenly and The antithesis and antagonist of safety and blessings of Zion: joyful anticipations they have sung and Zion is Babylon. The city of Babylon “Verily I say unto you all: Arise and written and prophesied of this our day; was originally Babel, of Tower of Babel shine forth, that thy light may be a but they died without the sight; we are fame, and later became the capital of standard for the nations; the favored people that God has made the Babylonian empire. Its principal “And that the gathering together choice of to bring about the Latter-day edifice was the temple of Bel, or Baal, upon the land of Zion, and upon her glory” (Teachings of Presidents of the the idol referred to by Old Testament stakes, may be for a defense, and for Church: Joseph Smith [Melchizedek prophets as “The Shame,” given the a refuge from the storm, and from Priesthood and Relief Society course of sexual perversions that were associ- wrath when it shall be poured out study, 2007], 186). ated with its worship. (See Bible without mixture upon the whole Zion is both a place and a people. Dictionary, “Assyria and Babylonia,” earth” (D&C 115:5–6). Zion was the name given to the 615–16; “Baal,” 617–18; “Babylon, or Under the direction of the Prophet ancient city of Enoch in the days Babel,” 618.) Its worldliness, its wor- Joseph Smith, early members of the before the Flood. “And it came to pass ship of evil, and the captivity of Judah Church attempted to establish the

NOVEMBER 2008 37 center place of Zion in Missouri, but struggling and fearful, we say, Let us they did not qualify to build the holy lift you and cheer you and calm your city. The Lord explained one of the fears” (“Looking Back and Moving reasons for their failure: Forward,” Liahona and Ensign, “They have not learned to be obe- May 2008, 90). dient to the things which I required at At the end of July this year, young their hands, but are full of all manner single adults from several countries of evil, and do not impart of their sub- in eastern Europe gathered outside stance, as becometh saints, to the Budapest, Hungary, for a conference. poor and afflicted among them; Among this group were 20 young “And are not united according to men and women from Moldova who the union required by the law of the had spent days obtaining passports celestial kingdom” (D&C 105:3–4). and visas and over 30 hours traveling “There were jarrings, and con- by bus to get there. The conference tentions, and envyings, and strifes, program included some 15 work- and lustful and covetous desires shops. Each person needed to select among them; therefore by these the two or three that he or she most things they polluted their inheri- wanted to attend. Rather than focus tances” (D&C 101:6). exclusively on their own interests, Rather than judge these early these Moldovan young adults got Saints too harshly, however, we together and made plans so that at should look to ourselves to see if least one of their group would be in we are doing any better. each class and take copious notes. Zion is Zion because of the charac- Then they would share what they had ter, attributes, and faithfulness of her learned with each other and later with citizens. Remember, “the Lord called the law of the celestial kingdom”? the young adults in Moldova who his people Zion, because they were of (D&C 105:4). Forgiveness of one could not attend. In its simplest form, one heart and one mind, and dwelt in another is essential to this unity. Jesus this exemplifies the unity and love for righteousness; and there was no poor said, “I, the Lord, will forgive whom I one another that, multiplied thou- among them” (Moses 7:18). If we will forgive, but of you it is required to sands of times in different ways, will would establish Zion in our homes, forgive all men” (D&C 64:10). “bring again Zion” (Isaiah 52:8). branches, wards, and stakes, we must We will become of one heart and rise to this standard. It will be neces- one mind as we individually place the Holiness sary (1) to become unified in one Savior at the center of our lives and Much of the work to be done in heart and one mind; (2) to become, follow those He has commissioned to establishing Zion consists in our indi- individually and collectively, a holy lead us. We can unite with President vidual efforts to become “the pure in people; and (3) to care for the poor Thomas S. Monson in love and con- heart” (D&C 97:21). “Zion cannot be and needy with such effectiveness cern for one another. In general con- built up unless it is by the principles that we eliminate poverty among us. ference last April, President Monson of the law of the celestial kingdom,” We cannot wait until Zion comes for spoke to those estranged from the said the Lord; “otherwise I cannot these things to happen—Zion will Church and to all of us when he said: receive her unto myself” (D&C come only as they happen. “In the private sanctuary of one’s own 105:5). The law of the celestial king- conscience lies that spirit, that deter- dom is, of course, the gospel law and Unity mination to cast off the old person covenants, which include our con- As we consider the unity required and to measure up to the stature of stant remembrance of the Savior and for Zion to flourish, we should ask true potential. In this spirit, we again our pledge of obedience, sacrifice, ourselves if we have overcome jar- issue that heartfelt invitation: Come consecration, and fidelity. rings, contentions, envyings, and back. We reach out to you in the pure The Savior was critical of some of strifes (see D&C 101:6). Are we indi- love of Christ and express our desire the early Saints for their “lustful . . . vidually and as a people free from to assist you and to welcome you into desires” (D&C 101:6; see also D&C strife and contention and united full fellowship. To those who are 88:121). These were people who “according to the union required by wounded in spirit or who are lived in a non-television, non-film,

38 non-Internet, non-iPod world. In a children of men to be agents unto Nevertheless, as we pursue the world now awash in sexualized images themselves. cause of Zion, each of us should and music, are we free from lustful “Therefore, if any man shall take prayerfully consider whether we are desires and their attendant evils? Far of the abundance which I have made, doing what we should and all that from pushing the limits of modest and impart not his portion, according we should in the Lord’s eyes with dress or indulging in the vicarious to the law of my gospel, unto the respect to the poor and the needy. immorality of pornography, we are poor and the needy, he shall, with the We might ask ourselves, living as to hunger and thirst after righteous- wicked, lift up his eyes in hell, being many of us do in societies that wor- ness. To come to Zion, it is not in torment” (D&C 104:17–18; see also ship possessions and pleasures, enough for you or me to be somewhat D&C 56:16–17). whether we are remaining aloof from less wicked than others. We are to Furthermore, He declares, “In your covetousness and the lust to acquire become not only good but holy men temporal things you shall be equal, more and more of this world’s goods. and women. Recalling Elder Neal A. and this not grudgingly, otherwise the Materialism is just one more manifes- Maxwell’s phrase, let us once and abundance of the manifestations of tation of the idolatry and pride that for all establish our residence in Zion the Spirit shall be withheld” (D&C characterize Babylon. Perhaps we can and give up the summer cottage in 70:14; see also D&C 49:20; 78:5–7). learn to be content with what is suffi- Babylon (see Neal A. Maxwell, A We control the disposition of cient for our needs. Wonderful Flood of Light [1990], 47). our means and resources, but we The Apostle Paul warned Timothy account to God for this stewardship against people who suppose “that Caring for the Poor over earthly things. It is gratifying to gain is godliness” (1 Timothy 6:5). Throughout history, the Lord has witness your generosity as you con- Said he, “We brought nothing into measured societies and individuals by tribute to fast offerings and humani- this world, and it is certain we can how well they cared for the poor. He tarian projects. Over the years, the carry nothing out. has said: suffering of millions has been allevi- “And having food and raiment let “For the earth is full, and there is ated, and countless others have us be therewith content” (1 Timothy enough and to spare; yea, I prepared been enabled to help themselves 6:7–8). all things, and have given unto the through the generosity of the Saints. In much of the world, we are

NOVEMBER 2008 39 entering upon unsettled economic family meals while we sat on the floor “We ought to have the building up of times. Let us look after one another . . . in true Vietnamese fashion. Zion as our greatest object” (Teachings: the very best we can. I remember the “One evening I stood inside Joseph Smith, 186). In our families and story of a Vietnamese family that fled Brother Johnson’s front door as I in our stakes and districts, let us seek Saigon in 1975 and ended up living in waited for him before a home teach- to build up Zion through unity, godli- a small mobile home in Provo, Utah. ing appointment. There in the nearby ness, and charity, preparing for that A young man in the refugee family kitchen—I was surprised to see it— great day when Zion, the New became the home teaching compan- was a table practically identical to the Jerusalem, will arise. In the words ion to a Brother Johnson who lived one they had given to my family. The of our hymn: nearby with his large family. The boy only difference was that where our related the following: table had pegs, the Johnsons’ table Israel, Israel, God is calling, “One day Brother Johnson had holes! I then realized that, seeing Calling thee from lands of woe. noticed that our family had no our need, this charitable man had cut Babylon the great is falling; kitchen table. He appeared the next his kitchen table in half and had built God shall all her tow’rs o’erthrow. . . . day with an odd-looking but very two new legs for each half. functional table that fit nicely against “It was obvious that the Johnson Come to Zion, come to Zion, the trailer wall across from the family could not fit around this small And within her walls rejoice. . . . kitchen sink and counters. I say odd- piece of furniture—they probably looking because two of the table didn’t fit comfortably around it when Come to Zion, come to Zion, legs matched the tabletop and two it was whole. . . . For your coming Lord is nigh. did not. Also, several small wooden “Throughout my life this kind act (“Israel, Israel, God Is Calling,” pegs stuck out along one edge of has been a powerful reminder of true Hymns, no. 7) the worn surface. giving” (Son Quang Le, as told to Beth “Soon we used this unique table Ellis Le, “Two-of-a-Kind Table,” Liahona, I bear witness of Jesus Christ, the daily for food preparation and for eat- July 2004, 45; Ensign, July 2004, 63). King of Zion, in the name of Jesus ing some quick meals. We still ate our The Prophet Joseph Smith said, Christ, amen. ■

40 “And now, behold, I say unto you, that these are the generations of Pray Always the heaven and of the earth, when they were created, in the day that I, ELDER DAVID A. BEDNAR the Lord God, made the heaven and Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles the earth, “And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of Prayer becomes more meaningful as we counsel the field before it grew. For I, the Lord with the Lord in all of our doings, as we express God, created all things, of which I heartfelt gratitude, and as we pray for others. have spoken, spiritually, before they were naturally upon the face of the earth” (Moses 3:4–5). We learn from these verses that the becomes natural and instinctive on spiritual creation preceded the tem- our part” (Bible Dictionary, “Prayer,” poral creation. In a similar way, mean- 752). We are commanded to pray ingful morning prayer is an important always to the Father in the name of element in the spiritual creation of the Son (see 3 Nephi 18:19–20). We each day—and precedes the temporal are promised that if we pray sin- creation or the actual execution of the cerely for that which is right and day. Just as the temporal creation was good and in accordance with God’s linked to and a continuation of the will, we can be blessed, protected, spiritual creation, so meaningful and directed (see 3 Nephi 18:20; morning and evening prayers are D&C 19:38). linked to and are a continuation of Revelation is communication from each other. Heavenly Father to His children on Consider this example. There may earth. As we ask in faith, we can be things in our character, in our receive revelation upon revelation behavior, or concerning our spiritual and knowledge upon knowledge and growth about which we need to coun- come to know the mysteries and sel with Heavenly Father in morning y message in the last general peaceable things that bring joy and prayer. After expressing appropriate conference focused upon eternal life (see D&C 42:61). The mys- thanks for blessings received, we Mthe gospel principle of ask- teries are those matters that can only plead for understanding, direction, ing in faith in prayer. Today I want to be known and understood by the and help to do the things we cannot discuss three additional principles power of the Holy Ghost (see do in our own strength alone. For that can help our prayers become Harold B. Lee, Ye Are the Light of example, as we pray, we might: more meaningful, and I pray for the the World [1974], 211). assistance of the Holy Ghost for me The revelations of the Father and • Reflect on those occasions when and for you. the Son are conveyed through the we have spoken harshly or inap- third member of the Godhead, even propriately to those we love the Principle #1. Prayer becomes the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is most. more meaningful as we counsel the witness of and messenger for the • Recognize that we know better with the Lord in all our doings Father and the Son. than this, but we do not always act (see Alma 37:37). The patterns used by God in cre- in accordance with what we know. Simply stated, prayer is communi- ating the earth are instructive in • Express remorse for our weak- cation to Heavenly Father from His helping us understand how to make nesses and for not putting off the sons and daughters on earth. “As prayer meaningful. In the third chap- natural man more earnestly. soon as we learn the true relation- ter of the book of Moses we learn • Determine to pattern our life after ship in which we stand toward God that all things were created spiritu- the Savior more completely. (namely, God is our Father, and we ally before they were naturally upon • Plead for greater strength to do are his children), then at once prayer the earth. and to become better.

NOVEMBER 2008 41 Such a prayer is a key part of the invited my wife to offer the prayer, spiritual preparation for our day. the member of the Twelve, unaware During the course of the day, of the tragedy, graciously suggested we keep a prayer in our heart for that in the prayer Sister Bednar continued assistance and guidance— express only appreciation for bless- even as Alma suggested: “Let all thy ings received and ask for nothing. His thoughts be directed unto the Lord” counsel was similar to Alma’s instruc- (Alma 37:36). tion to the members of the ancient We notice during this particular Church “to pray without ceasing, and day that there are occasions where to give thanks in all things” (Mosiah normally we would have a tendency 26:39). Given the unexpected tragedy, to speak harshly, and we do not; or requesting blessings for our friends we might be inclined to anger, but initially seemed to us more urgent we are not. We discern heavenly help than expressing thanks. and strength and humbly recognize Sister Bednar responded in faith answers to our prayer. Even in that to the direction she received. She moment of recognition, we offer a thanked Heavenly Father for mean- silent prayer of gratitude. ingful and memorable experiences At the end of our day, we kneel with this dear friend. She communi- again and report back to our Father. cated sincere gratitude for the Holy We review the events of the day and Ghost as the Comforter and for the express heartfelt thanks for the bless- gifts of the Spirit that enable us to ings and the help we received. We face adversity and to serve others. repent and, with the assistance of the yea, let the affections of thy heart be Most importantly, she expressed Spirit of the Lord, identify ways we placed upon the Lord forever. appreciation for the plan of salvation, can do and become better tomorrow. “Counsel with the Lord in all thy for the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Thus our evening prayer builds upon doings, and he will direct thee for Christ, for His Resurrection, and for and is a continuation of our morning good; yea, when thou liest down at the ordinances and covenants of the prayer. And our evening prayer also night lie down unto the Lord, that he restored gospel which make it possi- is a preparation for meaningful may watch over you in your sleep; ble for families to be together forever. morning prayer. and when thou risest in the morning Our family learned from that expe- Morning and evening prayers—and let thy heart be full of thanks unto rience a great lesson about the power all of the prayers in between—are God; and if ye do these things, ye of thankfulness in meaningful prayer. not unrelated, discrete events; rather, shall be lifted up at the last day” Because of and through that prayer, they are linked together each day and (Alma 37:36–37; emphasis added). our family was blessed with inspiration across days, weeks, months, and even about a number of issues that were years. This is in part how we fulfill the Principle #2. Prayer becomes pressing upon our minds and stirring scriptural admonition to “pray always” more meaningful as we express in our hearts. We learned that our (Luke 21:36; 3 Nephi 18:15, 18; D&C heartfelt gratitude. gratefulness for the plan of happiness 31:12). Such meaningful prayers are During our service at Brigham and for the Savior’s mission of salva- instrumental in obtaining the highest Young University–Idaho, Sister tion provided needed reassurance and blessings God holds in store for His Bednar and I frequently hosted strengthened our confidence that all faithful children. General Authorities in our home. Our would be well with our dear friends. Prayer becomes meaningful family learned an important lesson We also received insights concerning as we remember our relation- about meaningful prayer as we knelt the things about which we should ship to Deity and heed the to pray one evening with a member of pray and appropriately ask in faith. admonition to: the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The most meaningful and spiritual “Cry unto God for all thy support; Earlier in the day Sister Bednar and prayers I have experienced contained yea, let all thy doings be unto the I had been informed about the unex- many expressions of thanks and few, Lord, and whithersoever thou goest pected death of a dear friend, and our if any, requests. As I am blessed now let it be in the Lord; yea, let all thy immediate desire was to pray for the to pray with apostles and prophets, I thoughts be directed unto the Lord; surviving spouse and children. As I find among these modern-day leaders

42 of the Savior’s Church the same char- and strive to communicate apprecia- Lord “with all his heart, in behalf of acteristic that describes Captain tion with all the energy of our hearts. his people” (1 Nephi 1:5; emphasis Moroni in the Book of Mormon: added). In answer to this fervent these are men whose hearts swell Principle #3. Prayer becomes more prayer, Lehi was blessed with a glori- with thanksgiving to God for the meaningful as we pray for others ous vision of God and His Son and many privileges and blessings which with real intent and a sincere heart. of the impending destruction of He bestows upon His people (see Petitioning Heavenly Father for the Jerusalem (see 1 Nephi 1:6–9, 13, Alma 48:12). Also, they do not multi- blessings we desire in our personal 18). Consequently, Lehi rejoiced, and ply many words, for it is given unto lives is good and proper. However, his whole heart was filled because of them what they should pray, and they praying earnestly for others, both the things which the Lord had shown are filled with desire (see 3 Nephi those whom we love and those who him (see 1 Nephi 1:15). Please note 19:24). The prayers of prophets are despitefully use us, is also an impor- that the vision came in response to a childlike in their simplicity and pow- tant element of meaningful prayer. prayer for others and not as a result erful because of their sincerity. Just as expressing gratitude more of a request for personal edification As we strive to make our prayers often in our prayers enlarges the con- or guidance. more meaningful, we should remem- duit for revelation, so praying for oth- The Savior is the perfect example ber that “in nothing doth man offend ers with all of the energy of our souls of praying for others with real intent. God, or against none is his wrath kin- increases our capacity to hear and to In His great Intercessory Prayer dled, save those who confess not his heed the voice of the Lord. uttered on the night before His hand in all things, and obey not his We learn a vital lesson from the Crucifixion, Jesus prayed for His commandments” (D&C 59:21). Let me example of Lehi in the Book of Apostles and all of the Saints. recommend that periodically you and Mormon. Lehi responded in faith “I pray for them: I pray not for the I offer a prayer in which we only give to prophetic instruction and warn- world, but for them which thou hast thanks and express gratitude. Ask for ings concerning the destruction of given me; for they are thine. . . . nothing; simply let our souls rejoice Jerusalem. He then prayed unto the “Neither pray I for these alone, but

NOVEMBER 2008 43 PRIESTHOOD SESSION October 4, 2008

for them also which shall believe on me through their word; . . . “. . . that the love wherewith thou Honor hast loved me may be in them, and I in them” (John 17:9, 20, 26). During the Savior’s ministry on the American continent, He directed the the Priesthood people to ponder His teachings and to pray for understanding. He healed the sick, and He prayed for the people using language that could not be writ- and Use It Well ten (see 3 Nephi 17:1–16). The impact ELDER RICHARD G. SCOTT of His prayer was profound: “No one Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles can conceive of the joy which filled our souls at the time we heard him pray for us unto the Father” (3 Nephi The perfect role model for use of the holy priesthood 17:17). Imagine what it might have is our Savior, Jesus Christ. He ministered with love, been like to hear the Savior of the compassion, and charity. world praying for us. Do our spouses, children, and other family members likewise feel the power of our prayers offered lived on earth have received the unto the Father for their specific priesthood and how Jesus Christ has needs and desires? Do those we serve empowered those individuals to act hear us pray for them with faith and in His name, we should feel deeply sincerity? If those we love and serve humble and profoundly grateful for have not heard and felt the influence the priesthood we hold. of our earnest prayers in their behalf, The priesthood is the authority to then the time to repent is now. As we act in the name of God. That author- emulate the example of the Savior, ity is essential to the fulfillment of His our prayers truly will become more work on earth. The priesthood we meaningful. hold is a delegated portion of the We are commanded to “pray eternal authority of God. As we are always” (2 Nephi 32:9; D&C 10:5; true and faithful, our ordination to 90:24)—“vocally as well as in [our] the priesthood will be eternal. heart[s]; . . . before the world as well However, the conferring of author- as in secret, in public as well as in ity alone does not of itself bestow the private” (D&C 19:28). I testify that power of the office. The extent to prayer becomes more meaningful as y dear brethren, we are gath- which we can exercise the power of we counsel with the Lord in all of our ered across the world in the the priesthood depends upon per- doings, as we express heartfelt grati- Mmarvelous brotherhood of sonal worthiness, faith in the Lord tude, and as we pray for others with the holy priesthood of God. How Jesus Christ, and obedience to His real intent and a sincere heart. blessed we are to be among the very commandments. When supported by I witness Heavenly Father lives few men on earth trusted to be a secure foundation of gospel knowl- and that He hears and answers every authorized to act in the name of the edge, our capacity to worthily use the earnest prayer. Jesus is the Christ, Savior to bless others through the priesthood is greatly enhanced. our Savior and Mediator. Revelation righteous use of His priesthood. The perfect role model for use of is real. The fulness of the gospel I wonder, brethren, how many of the holy priesthood is our Savior, Jesus has been restored to the earth in us seriously ponder the inestimable Christ. He ministered with love, com- this dispensation. I so testify in the value of holding the Aaronic and passion, and charity. His life was a sacred name of the Lord Jesus Melchizedek Priesthoods. When we matchless example of humility and Christ, amen. ■ consider how few men who have power. The greatest blessings from the

44 use of the priesthood flow from hum- ble service to others without thought of self. By following His example as a faithful, obedient priesthood bearer, we can access great power. When required, we can exercise the power of healing, of blessing, of consoling, and of counseling, as the quiet promptings of the Spirit are faithfully followed. For a few minutes I ask you to con- sider that you and I are alone in a quiet place where the atmosphere permits direction by the Holy Spirit. Some of you receive periodic personal worthi- ness interviews, while others have callings where that seldom occurs. Will you consider that in the next few minutes you and I will have a private priesthood interview? As we share these moments together, I ask you to ponder your personal worthiness to use the sacred authority you hold. I will also ask you to consider how consistently you use your priesthood to bless others. My intent is not to criticize but to help increase the benefits that flow from your use of the priesthood. Are your private, personal thoughts conducive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, or would they ben- efit from a thorough housecleaning? Do you nourish your mind with ele- vating material, or have you suc- covenants by never engaging in con- member of your stake presidency cumbed to the enticement of versation with another woman that now. You need help. Those matters pornographic literature or Web sites? you wouldn’t want your wife to over- that trouble you will not heal them- Do you scrupulously avoid the use of hear? Are you kind and supportive of selves. Without attention they will stimulants and substances that con- your own wife and children? Do you likely get worse. It may be difficult flict with the intent of the Word of assist your wife by doing some of the for you to speak to your priesthood Wisdom, or have you made some per- household chores? Do you lead out leader, but I encourage you to do it sonally rationalized exceptions? Are in family activities such as scripture now for your own good and for the you most careful to control what study, family prayer, and family home benefit of those who love you. enters your mind through your eyes evening, or does your wife fill in the Brethren, I now speak of how the and ears to ensure that it is whole- gap your lack of attention leaves in the priesthood should be used to bless some and elevating? home? Do you tell her you love her? the lives of others, especially the If you are divorced, do you provide If any of you feel uncomfortable daughters of Father in Heaven. for the real financial need of the chil- with any of the answers you have The family proclamation states that dren you have fathered, not just the mentally given to the questions I have a husband and wife should be equal minimum legal requirement? asked, take corrective action now. If partners. I feel assured that every wife If you are married, are you faithful there are worthiness issues, with all of in the Church would welcome that to your wife mentally as well as physi- the tenderness of my heart I encour- opportunity and support it. Whether cally? Are you loyal to your marriage age you to speak to your bishop or a it occurs or not depends upon the

NOVEMBER 2008 45 husband. Many husbands practice created. Only then was the work equal partnership with their compan- pronounced complete and good. ion to the benefit of both and the Of our wives, mothers, grand- blessing of their children. However, mothers, and sisters and other impor- many do not. I encourage any man tant women in our lives, President who is reluctant to develop an equal Hinckley declared: “Of all the creations partnership with his wife to obey the of the Almighty, there is none more counsel inspired by the Lord and do beautiful, none more inspiring than a it. Equal partnership yields its greatest lovely daughter of God who walks in benefit when both husband and wife virtue with an understanding of why seek the will of the Lord in making she should do so, who honors and important decisions for themselves respects her body as a thing sacred and for their family. and divine, who cultivates her mind Be sensitive to the promptings of and constantly enlarges the horizon of the Spirit in the use of that consum- her understanding, who nurtures her mate privilege of acting in the name of spirit with everlasting truth.”1 the Lord through your priesthood. Be By divine design a woman is funda- more aware of how you can make A father in Ukraine shares a gospel mentally different from a man in greater use of the power of the priest- insight. many ways.2 She is compassionate hood in the lives of those you love and and seeks the interests of others serve. I am thinking particularly of indi- a daughter of Father in Heaven. That around her. However, that compas- viduals such as a widow in need who imbalance simply must never occur. sionate nature can become over- likely could benefit from the help of an Do single sisters receive the con- whelming for women who identify understanding, compassionate priest- sideration and attention they deserve far more to accomplish than they can hood bearer. Many such will never when they attend family wards? Do possibly do, even with the help of request help. Be aware of the range of they have opportunities to serve in the Lord. Some become discouraged challenges you could help meet in her significant callings where they are because they do not feel they are home, such as the relief of anxieties made to feel welcome and wanted? doing all they should do. I believe this through an inspired priesthood bless- Do they receive the required priest- is a feeling that many worthy, effec- ing or the need for small repairs. hood support? tive, devoted women of the Church As a bishop, be sensitive and atten- The purpose of priesthood author- experience. tive to the sisters who serve in your ity is to give, to serve, to lift, to Therefore, as a husband or son, ward council. They can identify the inspire—not to exercise unrighteous express gratitude for what your wife needs of the women in your ward control or force. In some cultures, tra- and mother do for you. Express your who are not blessed with priesthood dition places a man in a role to domi- love and gratitude often. That will in the home. Through a home visit, nate, control, and regulate all family make life far richer, more pleasant the Relief Society can identify needs affairs. That is not the way of the and purposeful for many of the and recommend solutions to you. For Lord. In some places the wife is daughters of Father in Heaven who matters beyond the scope of the almost owned by her husband, as if seldom hear a complimentary com- Relief Society, you can call upon the she were another of his personal pos- ment and are not thanked for the elders quorum or the high priests sessions. That is a cruel, unproduc- multitude of things they do. As a hus- group to provide assistance according tive, mistaken vision of marriage band, when you sense that your wife to the need. encouraged by Lucifer that every needs lifting, hold her in your arms As a bishop, when you counsel priesthood holder must reject. It is and tell her how much you love her. with a husband and wife who are in founded on the false premise that May each of us ever be tender and marital difficulty, do you give the a man is somehow superior to a appreciative of the special women same credence to the statements of woman. Nothing could be farther who enrich our lives. the woman that you do to the man? from the truth. The scriptures con- Often the real value of something is As I travel throughout the world, I firm that Father in Heaven saved His not recognized until it is taken from us. find that some women are short- greatest, most splendid, supreme cre- To illustrate, consider a man who had changed in that a priesthood leader is ation, woman, to the end. Only after lost the use of the priesthood through more persuaded by a son rather than all else was completed was woman transgression. Later it was returned to

46 him as part of the restoration of ordi- nances he obtained through full repen- tance. After the restoration, I turned Arms of Safety to his wife and said, “Would you like a blessing?” She enthusiastically ELDER JAY E. JENSEN responded. Then I looked at the hus- Of the Presidency of the Seventy band, now capable of using his priest- hood, and said, “Would you like to give your wife a blessing?” Words cannot By coming humbly and fully repentant to sacrament express the profound emotion of such meeting and worthily partaking of the sacrament, an experience and the bonds of love, we may feel those arms [of safety] again and again. trust, and gratitude it created. You shouldn’t have to lose your priesthood to appreciate it more fully. I know the immense joy and hap- 5 feet (1.5 m) from a dangerous 200- piness that come from loving, cher- foot (61-m) drop. ishing, and respecting my precious A 19-year-old young man named wife with all my heart and soul. May Ian saw where she was and, using his your use of the priesthood and treat- emergency-response training, knew ment of the important women in your how to handle the situation. These are life bring you the same satisfaction. his words: “‘Immediately, it all came at As one of the 15 Apostles of the me, and I just knew what I had to do. I Lord Jesus Christ on earth, I express my set down my camera and went up the own feelings regarding the priesthood trail a little ways where it wasn’t as as it has been captured perfectly by steep, climbed over the rail, scrambled this statement of President Howard W. down a bunch of rocks and through Hunter: “As special witnesses of our brush, and found her.’ Holding her in Savior, we have been given the awe- his arms for an hour, Ian waited until some assignment to administer the emergency teams could drop down affairs of his church and kingdom and with ropes” to rescue them (“Save to minister to his daughters and his Her!” New Era, Sept. 2007, 6). The sons wherever they are on the face of speak this evening about the phrase “holding her in his arms” the earth. By reason of our call to tes- Atonement of Jesus Christ and its caught my attention because the scrip- tify, govern, and minister, it is required I relevance to the administration of tures talk about arms—arms of love, of us that despite age, infirmity, the sacrament by the holders of the arms of mercy, and arms of safety (see exhaustion, and feelings of inadequacy, Aaronic Priesthood, taught so power- 2 Nephi 1:15; Mosiah 16:12; Alma we do the work He has given us to do, fully and so beautifully by Elder Oaks 5:33; D&C 6:20; 29:1). to the last breath of our lives.”3 this morning. I will use a short scrip- The scripture phrase “encircled God will hold us accountable for ture phrase that helps me visualize in the arms of safety” comes from how we treat His precious daughters. the Savior’s mercy. It is the phrase Amulek’s message to the Zoramites Therefore, let us treat them as He “arms of safety” (see Alma 34:16). about the infinite and eternal would wish to have them treated. I Atonement. He taught that the sacri- pray that the Lord will guide us to be Secure in His Arms fice of the Son of God made it possi- more inspired, sensitive, and produc- A family had been taking pictures ble for man to have faith in Christ to tive with the priesthood we hold, on a lookout point of the North Rim lead us to repent. “And thus mercy can especially with His daughters. In the of the Grand Canyon. They heard satisfy the demands of justice, and name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ screams and ran to find that a two- encircles them in the arms of safety”

NOTES year-old girl had fallen through a rail- (Alma 34:16; see also vv. 9–15). 1. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Our Responsibility to ing to a ledge about 35 feet (11 m) Our Young Women,” Ensign, Sept. 1988, 11. below. The little one tried to climb Teach Intangibles with Tangibles 2. See Moses 4:17–19; 5:10–11. 3. Howard W. Hunter, “To the Women of the back up, but her movements caused To better understand “arms of Church,” Ensign, Nov. 1992, 96. her to slip even farther until she was safety” it is important to remember

NOVEMBER 2008 47 that the Savior used tangible things, their minds and hearts these words: baptism. We are made clean and such as coins, seeds, sheep, loaves, “Behold, your sins are forgiven you; can always have His Spirit to be with fishes, and body parts to teach gospel you are clean before me; therefore, us” (“Special Witnesses of Christ,” principles. lift up your heads and rejoice” Liahona, Apr. 2001, 14; Ensign, Arms are tangible, and we use (D&C 110:5). Apr. 2001, 13). them to express affection and love. Elder Dallin H. Oaks has testified When I come home from the office, I that there is a spiritual cleansing or Implications for Aaronic Priesthood am encircled in the tangible arms of healing associated with the sacra- Holders my wife. I have experienced arms of ment: “The sacrament of the Lord’s To help members more fully love and safety throughout my service Supper is a renewal of the covenants receive that cleansing, or the arms in Latin America by means of the com- and blessings of baptism. We are com- of safety, those who hold keys to mon greeting, un abrazo, or hug. manded to repent of our sins and authorize and those who administer As I have pondered how to effec- come to the Lord with a broken heart the sacrament should ensure that tively teach the Atonement to others, and a contrite spirit and partake of general guidelines in Church hand- the phrase “arms of safety” has been the sacrament. In the partaking of the books concerning the preparation, useful. When we were baptized and bread, we witness that we are willing blessing, and passing of the sacra- received the Holy Ghost by the lay- to take upon us the name of Jesus ment are followed. Each priesthood ing on of hands, we received two Christ and always remember Him and holder should remember that he is ordinances that introduce us to the keep His commandments. When we acting on behalf of the Lord and be arms of safety. By coming humbly comply with this covenant, the Lord reverent and dignified. Generally and fully repentant to sacrament renews the cleansing effect of our speaking, our youth are exemplary. meeting and worthily partaking of the sacrament, we may feel those arms again and again.

Likening a Sacrament Meeting to Our Day The section heading to Doctrine and Covenants 110 gives the context for one of our most relevant verses about enjoying arms of safety. On a Sabbath day during the dedication of the Kirtland Temple, the Prophet Joseph Smith explained that he and other priesthood holders had admin- istered the sacrament to the Church. Following this sacred ordinance, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery retired to pray in private. Following the prayer, the Savior appeared to these two men and said, “Behold, your sins are forgiven you; you are clean before me; therefore, lift up your heads and rejoice” (D&C 110:5). The sequence of events in the Kirtland Temple in 1836 parallels our day and is likened to us. Sabbath after Sabbath, you young priesthood hold- ers administer the sacrament to the Saints, who come to sacrament meet- ing prayerfully, hungering for spiritual healing, hoping, pleading to hear in

48 However, in the administration of the sacrament, occasionally we see a disturbing drift towards too much informality and casualness in dress and appearance. Young men, before going to church, will you please pause before a mirror one more time and ask yourself if every aspect of your appearance is in order? Better still, invite someone you love, such as a parent, to look at you one more time, and if something is amiss, don’t resent their counsel. True servants of Jesus Christ are properly groomed and dressed, reflecting always His standards and not the worldly drift of casualness. Having every detail carefully attended to ensures that the Spirit of the Lord will be present. The dress or appearance of those administering the sacrament should not be a distraction for those who are earnestly seeking the blessings of the infinite Atonement. A theme found in the messages Parents in Argentina keep their children close between conference sessions. of President Monson to us, the priesthood holders, is that it is a confessed and the impressions of the redemption from the Fall, from spiri- privilege to hold the priesthood: “It Spirit to me, among other things, he tual death. It is much more than that. is a commission to serve, a privilege was not permitted to partake of the It is an ever-present power to call to lift, and an opportunity to bless sacrament for a time. We met regu- upon in everyday life. When we are the lives of others” (“Our Sacred larly to ensure that repentance had racked or harrowed up or tormented Priesthood Trust,” Liahona and happened, and, after an appropriate by guilt or burdened with grief, He Ensign, May 2006, 57). I testify that time, I authorized him to again par- can heal us. While we do not fully this applies to the administration of take of the sacrament. understand how the Atonement of the sacrament. As I sat on the stand in that sacra- Christ was made, we can experience ment meeting, my eyes were drawn ‘the peace of God, which passeth all Experiencing the Arms of Safety to him as he now partook of the understanding’” (“The Touch of the While serving as a bishop, I wit- sacrament worthily. I witnessed arms Master’s Hand,” Liahona, July 2001, nessed the blessings of the Atonement of mercy, love, and safety encircling 26; Ensign, May 2001, 23). in the lives of Church members who him as the healing of the Atonement I love my Heavenly Father and His committed serious transgressions. warmed his soul and lifted his load, Son, Jesus Christ. I place my faith, As a judge in Israel I listened to resulting in the promised forgiveness, my love, my loyalty, and my devotion their confessions and, when needed, peace, and happiness. in Them. I testify that God is our placed restrictions upon them, such Heavenly Father and that we are as not partaking of the sacrament The Atonement—an Ever-Present His children. I bear witness that the for a time. Power Atonement is real and has power in A young single adult in our ward I have experienced and have a wit- our lives. I testify that the restored was dating a young woman. They ness of a truth that President Packer gospel is true. These truths are found allowed their affections to get out taught: “For some reason, we think in the holy scriptures, especially in of control. He came to me for coun- the Atonement of Christ applies the Book of Mormon. In the name of sel and help. Based on what was only at the end of mortal life to Jesus Christ, amen. ■

NOVEMBER 2008 49 men that God Himself wept as He surveyed man’s condition.6 Winning the War We now find ourselves in the last days of this earth’s temporal history. In a coming day, our Father’s Son will return to the earth from which He against Evil was rejected and reclaim it as His 7 ELDER JAMES J. HAMULA own. In that day, He will subdue Satan and his legions and usher in Of the Seventy a thousand years of peace and righ- teousness.8 In anticipation of that day, You were entrusted to come to the earth in these last days God has restored His kingdom to the to do again what you did before—to once again choose earth one last time. That kingdom is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- good over evil. day Saints.9 While God’s kingdom has been established on the earth in times past, the people to whom the kingdom was “And there was war in heaven: previously committed were unable to Michael and his angels fought against keep it. This time, however, is differ- the dragon; and the dragon fought ent. The prophetic promise is that and his angels, this time God’s kingdom will not be “And prevailed not; neither was lost but will overcome the world.10 their place found any more in heaven. To ensure its ultimate success, the “And the great dragon was cast final restoration of God’s kingdom out, that old serpent, called the Devil, has been commenced with unprece- and Satan, which deceiveth the dented spiritual power11 and is being whole world: he was cast out into the sustained by that same spiritual earth, and his angels were cast out power and something more. Reserved with him.”2 to come forth in these last days and It was Satan who instigated this labor for our Father and His Son are premortal war. He did so by rebelling some of the most valiant and noble against our Father’s plan of salvation of our Father’s sons and daughters. for His children and rejecting the Their valiance and nobility were Christ, who was designated to effectu- demonstrated in the pre-earth strug- speak tonight to my brethren of ate the plan. Tragically, a third of our gle with Satan. There, “being left to the Aaronic Priesthood. It is my Father’s children followed Satan.3 Yet choose good or evil,” they “[chose] desire to help you more deeply two-thirds did not. You, my young good” and exhibited “exceedingly I 12 appreciate who you are, what your pur- friends, were among these, and with great faith” and “good works.” Such pose in life is, and how you may suc- them have come to earth to pursue are the traits that are now needed to ceed in accomplishing that purpose. the Father’s plan of happiness. sustain the work of God in the earth You have come into the world at a Unfortunately, Satan’s war did not and to save the souls of men from the most significant time. We are entering end with his expulsion from heaven. intensifying wrath of the adversary. the final stages of a great war. This war As John observed, Satan and his fol- Now, my young friends of the commenced before the foundations of lowers were “cast out into the earth”4 Aaronic Priesthood, you are these the world and has been pursued with and have come here with “great valiant and noble sons of our Father! awful consequence throughout the wrath.”5 The evidence of their wrath You are the strength of the Lord’s world’s history. I speak of the war can be seen in the blood and horror house, His warriors!13 You are those between the followers of Christ and all that has afflicted man from the begin- who chose good over evil and who those who deny Him as their God.1 ning of time. exhibited “exceedingly great faith” John the Revelator wrote concern- So profound and extensive have and “good works.” And because of ing this war: been the wounds suffered among your personal history, you were

50 entrusted to come to the earth in In this regard, President Boyd K. observe.”21 And it was Mormon who, these last days to do again what you Packer has observed: at age 15, was “visited of the Lord” did before—to once again choose “I know of nothing in the history of and “knew of the goodness of Jesus” good over evil, exercise exceedingly the Church or in the history of the because he was of a “sober mind.”22 great faith, and perform good world to compare with our present So, as we enter the final climactic works—and to do so in behalf of the circumstances. Nothing happened in stages of the war against Satan, be kingdom of God on the earth and Sodom and Gomorrah which exceeds sober, my young friends. Understand your fellowman! in wickedness and depravity that that you cannot partake of drugs, With God’s kingdom restored to which surrounds us now.”18 alcohol, or tobacco. You cannot par- the earth and your entry into the In referring to the perils of our day, ticipate in pornography or other world, Satan knows that “he hath but I do not intend to inspire fear, but immoral activity. You cannot lie, a short time.”14 Therefore, Satan is soberness. Being sober means being cheat, or steal. You cannot use false, marshalling every resource at his dis- earnest and serious in assessing your demeaning, or dirty language. You posal to entice you into transgression. circumstances and careful and cir- cannot deface your body with tattoos He knows that if he can draw you into cumspect in weighing the conse- and other piercings. You cannot do transgression, he may prevent you quences of your actions. Soberness these things and be victorious in the from serving a full-time mission, mar- therefore yields good judgment, as battle for your own soul, let alone be rying in the temple, and securing your well as measured conduct. No won- a valiant warrior in the great struggle future children in the faith, all of der then that prophets counsel young for the souls of all the rest of our which weakens not only you but the men to be sober.19 Remember Father’s children.23 Church. He knows that nothing can Mormon’s observation that what Understand, my young friends, overthrow God’s kingdom “save it made Helaman’s 2,000 stripling war- that there is only one way to win the [be] the transgression of [his] peo- riors so effective in battle was not war against Satan, and that is to win it ple.”15 Make no mistake about it—the just their courage, strength, and trust- in the same way it was won in the focus of his war is now on you—you worthiness, but their “soberness.”20 beginning. When victory was finally who seek to “keep the command- Mormon valued such a trait because achieved in the War in Heaven, a loud ments of God, and have the testi- he was blessed to possess it himself. It voice was heard to declare: mony of Jesus Christ.”16 was Mormon who was entrusted with “Now is come salvation, and Now, my young friends, you need the sacred records of the Nephite strength, and the kingdom of our to appreciate that our days now and nation at only 10 years of age because God, and the power of his Christ. . . . the days that lie ahead are “perilous.”17 he was a “sober child” and “quick to “For they [referring to Michael and

NOVEMBER 2008 51 to make three suggestions. First, do as young Joseph Smith did. Find a quiet place and pray to your Father in Heaven.26 Do so regu- larly and earnestly. Prayer is a precon- dition to revelation. The more regular and earnest the prayer, the more fre- quent the revelation. When received, revelation provides the evidence or assurance of things unseen, which is the foundation of faith.27 Second, learn to hear the voice of the Lord. His is a still, small, and whisper-like voice.28 It is one that is felt more than it is heard. It comes in the form of thoughts, feelings, and impressions. To hear such a voice, you must be still and quiet in your own soul, laying aside your excess laughter and light-mindedness.29 While it may not seem easy to so dis- cipline your life, hearing the precious, loving voice of the Lord will sustain you in every circumstance and is therefore worth every effort. Third, obey the word of the Lord as it is given to you. His word will not only love and comfort but invariably instruct and correct. Do as He bids you to do, no matter how hard it may seem to you, and do it now. It is in doing the will of the Lord that knowl- edge of Him and love for Him accrue to your soul, which leads you to be ever more willing to lay down your own life and follow Him.30 My dear brethren of the Aaronic Priesthood, these are your days! Do Full-time missionaries in Brazil help spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. not squander them! Be sober! Take “the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall his angels] have overcome him [refer- oneself to the Lord and His work. If . . . quench all the fiery darts of the ring to the devil] by the blood of the this was the means for defeating him wicked.”31 Then “fight the good fight Lamb, and by the word of their testi- in the beginning, you can be sure that of faith.”32 And when you have done mony; for they loved not their own this is the one sure way to defeat all, “stand”33 still and “see the salva- lives, but kept the testimony even him now.25 tion of the Lord.”34 I assure you that unto death.”24 Do not miss the signifi- Now, you may wonder how to His salvation will come, delivering you cance of this declaration. Satan was acquire the faith, testimony, and con- and yours from every evil. I so testify overcome in the beginning by (1) secration of spirit necessary to over- in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His come the adversary. Let me assure amen. ■ atoning sacrifice, (2) testimony of you that these qualities are already NOTES Him that was steadfastly kept to the within you. You simply need to 1. See 1 Nephi 14:10, 13 (“There are save two very end, and (3) consecration of recover them. To that end, allow me churches only; the one is the church of the

52 Lamb of God, and the other is the church of the devil . . . [which] gather[s] together mul- titudes upon the face of all the earth . . . to fight against the Lamb of God”). Lift Where 2. Revelation 12:7–9. 3. See D&C 29:36. 4. Revelation 12:9. 5. Revelation 12:12. 6. See Moses 7:29, 36–37. You Stand 7. See Matthew 21:33–44. 8. See D&C 88:110; Moses 7:64. PRESIDENT DIETER F. UCHTDORF 9. See Bruce R. McConkie, “The Caravan Moves On,” Ensign, Nov. 1984, 84. Second Counselor in the First Presidency 10. See Daniel 2:44–45; D&C 38:9–15; 82:24. 11. See Joseph Smith—History 1:17–19 (the appearance of the Father and the Son to Every priesthood holder stands at a unique place Joseph Smith was the first such appearance to man since the Garden of Eden); 1:30–49 and has an important task that only he can perform. (Moroni); D&C 27:7–8, 12–13 (John the Baptist, Peter, James, and John); 110:11–16 (Moses, Elias, and Elijah); 128:19–21 (“divers angels, from Michael or Adam down to the present”). 12. Alma 13:3. needed for a musical event. None 13. See D&C 101:55; 105:16. 14. Revelation 12:12. were professional movers, and the 15. Mosiah 27:13. task of getting that gravity-friendly 16. Revelation 12:17. instrument through the chapel and 17. 2 Timothy 3:1. 18. Boyd K. Packer, “The One Pure Defense” into the cultural hall seemed nearly (address to CES religious educators, Feb. 6, impossible. Everybody knew that 2004), 4. this task required not only physical 19. Alma counseled each of his sons— Helaman, Shiblon, and Corianton—to “be strength but also careful coordina- sober” (see Alma 37:47; 38:15; 42:31). tion. There were plenty of ideas, but Paul also exhorted young men to be not one could keep the piano bal- “sober minded” (Titus 2:6). In addition, Paul counseled others to be sober, partic- anced correctly. They repositioned ularly bishops (see Romans 12:3; the brethren by strength, height, and 1 Thessalonians 5:6, 8; 1 Timothy 3:2, 11; Titus 1:8; 2:2, 4, 12). age over and over again—nothing 20. See Alma 53:20–21. worked. 21. Mormon 1:2. As they stood around the piano, 22. Mormon 1:15. 23. See Gordon B. Hinckley, “An Unending uncertain of what to do next, a Conflict, a Victory Assured,” Liahona, June good friend of mine, Brother 2007, 2–7; Ensign, June 2007, 4–9. eloved brethren, I am honored Hanno Luschin, spoke up. He said, 24. Joseph Smith Translation, Revelation 12:9, 11. 25. See D&C 76:53 (those who inherit the to be with you at this world- “Brethren, stand close together and celestial kingdom “overcome by faith”); wide priesthood gathering. lift where you stand.” 1 John 5:4–5 (“this is the victory that B With you, I am so grateful to be in the It seemed too simple. Neverthe- overcometh the world, even our faith,” and “he that overcometh the world” is presence of our beloved prophet, less, each lifted where he stood, “he that believeth that Jesus is the Son President Thomas S. Monson, and and the piano rose from the ground of God”). President Eyring. Brethren, we thank and moved into the cultural hall 26. See Joseph Smith—History 1:11–15. 27. See Hebrews 11:1; Alma 32:21; Ether 12:6. you for your faithfulness and moral as if on its own power. That was 28. The voice of the Spirit is described as a still, strength. It is indeed a privilege the answer to the challenge. They small voice of perfect mildness, as if it were a whisper. See 1 Kings 19:12; Helaman and a joy to be part of this great merely needed to stand close 5:30; D&C 85:6. brotherhood. together and lift where they 29. See D&C 88:69, 121. stood. 30. See Matthew 16:24–25; John 7:17. 31. Ephesians 6:16. Lift Where You Stand I have often thought of Brother 32. 1 Timothy 6:12. Some years ago in our meeting- Luschin’s simple idea and have been 33. See Malachi 3:2. “Who shall be able to house in Darmstadt, Germany, a impressed by its profound truth. stand?” (Revelation 6:17). Those who have taken the “whole armour of God” and have group of brethren was asked to move Tonight I would like to expand on “done all” (Ephesians 6:13). a grand piano from the chapel to the that simple concept, “lift where 34. Exodus 14:13. adjoining cultural hall, where it was you stand.”

NOVEMBER 2008 53 Some Want to Lead, making a difference. But they won- A Better Way Others Want to Hide der, “What possible influence can There is a better way, taught to us Although it may seem simple, lift- I have as merely a home teacher by the Savior Himself: “Whosoever ing where we stand is a principle of or a counselor in the quorum will be chief among you, let him be power. Most of the priesthood bear- presidency?” your servant.”2 ers I know understand and live by When we seek to serve others, we this principle. They are eager to roll Those Who Seek to Hide are motivated not by selfishness but up their sleeves and go to work, Those who seek to hide may feel by charity. This is the way Jesus Christ whatever that work might be. They that they are too busy to serve in the lived His life and the way a holder of faithfully perform their priesthood Church. When the chapel needs to be the priesthood must live his. The duties. They magnify their callings. cleaned, when the Mendez family Savior did not care for the honors of They serve the Lord by serving oth- needs help moving, when the bishop men; Satan offered Him all the king- ers. They stand close together and calls them to teach a class, they always doms and glory of the world, and lift where they stand. seem to have a ready excuse. Jesus rejected the offer immediately However, there are those who Twenty years ago, President Ezra and completely.3 Throughout His life, sometimes struggle with this concept. Taft Benson shared reports from bish- the Savior must have often felt tired And when they do, they seem to fall ops and stake presidents that some and pressed upon, with scarcely a into one of two camps: either they members “are turning down calls to moment to Himself; yet He always seek to lead, or they seek to hide. serve claiming they are ‘too busy’ or made time for the sick, the sorrowful, They covet a crown or a cave. they ‘haven’t got time.’ Others accept and the overlooked. such callings, but refuse to magnify In spite of this shining example, we Those Who Seek to Lead those callings.” too easily and too often get caught up Those who seek to lead may feel President Benson went on to say, in seeking the honors of men rather they are capable of doing more than “The Lord expects each of us to have than serving the Lord with all our what they are currently asked to do. a calling in His Church so that others might, mind, and strength. Some might think, “If only I were a may be blessed by our talents and Brethren, when we stand before bishop, I could make a difference.” influence.”1 the Lord to be judged, will He look They believe that their abilities far Oddly enough, often the root upon the positions we have held in surpass their calling. Perhaps if they cause of both of these tendencies— the world or even in the Church? Do were in an important position of seeking to lead or seeking to hide— you suppose that titles we have had leadership, they would work hard at may be the same: selfishness. other than “husband,” “father,” or

54 “priesthood holder” will mean much to Him? Do you think He will care how packed our schedule was or how many important meetings we attended? Do you suppose that our success in filling our days with appointments will serve as an excuse for failure to spend time with our wife and family? The Lord judges so very differently from the way we do. He is pleased with the noble servant, not with the self-serving noble. Those who are humble in this life will wear crowns of glory in the next. Jesus taught this doctrine Himself when He told the story of the rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and ate sumptuously every day, while the beggar Lazarus yearned merely to taste of the crumbs from the rich man’s table. In the next life, Abraham, while the rich man was cast bucksaw, cut off his leg a few inches Lazarus appeared in glory next to into hell, where he lifted up his eyes from the knee. in torment.4 In spite of the crude surgery, the leg started to heal. Once John could The Example of John Rowe Moyle sit up in bed, he began carving a This year marks the 200th anniver- wooden leg with an ingenious joint sary of the birth of John Rowe Moyle. that served as an ankle to an artifi- John was a convert to the Church cial foot. Walking on this device was who left his home in England and extremely painful, but John did not traveled to the Salt Lake Valley as part give up, building up his endurance of a handcart company. He built a until he could make the 22-mile home for his family in a small town a (35-km) journey to the Salt Lake valley away from Salt Lake City. John Temple each week, where he was an accomplished stonecutter and, continued his work. because of this skill, was asked to His hands carved the words work on the Salt Lake Temple. “Holiness to the Lord” that stand Every Monday John left home at today as a golden marker to all who two o’clock in the morning and visit the Salt Lake Temple.5 walked six hours in order to be at his John did not do this for the praise post on time. On Friday he would of man. Neither did he shirk his duty, leave his work at five o’clock in the even though he had every reason to evening and walk almost until mid- do so. He knew what the Lord night before arriving home. He did expected him to do. this year after year. Years later, John’s grandson One day, while he was doing his Henry D. Moyle was called as a mem- chores at home, a cow kicked him in ber of the Quorum of the Twelve the leg, causing a compound fracture. and, eventually, served in the First With limited medical resources, the Presidency of the Church. President only option was to amputate the bro- Moyle’s service in these callings was ken leg. So John’s family and friends honorable, but his grandfather John’s strapped him onto a door and, with a service, though somewhat less

NOVEMBER 2008 55 public, is just as pleasing to the Lord. Monson to organize and conduct our John’s character, his legacy of sacrifice, family home evening. He wants us, as serves as a banner of faithfulness and an fathers, to do this. ensign of duty to his family and to the You may feel that there are others Church. John Rowe Moyle understood who are more capable or more expe- the meaning of “lift where you stand.” rienced who could fulfill your callings and assignments better than you can, The Example of Helaman’s but the Lord gave you your responsi- 2,000 Warriors bilities for a reason. There may be Individual recognition is rarely an people and hearts only you can reach indication of the value of our service. and touch. Perhaps no one else could We do not know the names, for exam- do it in quite the same way. ple, of any of the 2,000 sons of Our Heavenly Father asks that we Helaman. As individuals, they are represent Him in the noble work of unnamed. As a group, however, their reaching out and blessing the lives of name will always be remembered for A future missionary in Brazil gets His children. He asks us to stand firm honesty, courage, and the willingness some help with his tie. with the power of the priesthood in to serve. They accomplished together our hearts and souls and give the call- what none of them could have believe that the Lord has a certain ing we have at this moment our best accomplished alone. calling for every man. Sometimes He efforts. That is a lesson for us, brethren of grants spiritual promptings telling us Brethren, as strong as you are, you the priesthood. When we stand close that we are worthy to receive certain cannot and you should not lift a piano together and lift where we stand, callings. This is a spiritual blessing, a by yourself. Likewise, none of us can when we care more for the glory of tender mercy from God. or should move the Lord’s work the kingdom of God than for our own But sometimes we do not hear alone. But if we all stand close prestige or pleasure, we can accom- the rest of what the Lord is telling us. together in the place the Lord has plish so much more. “Although you are worthy to serve in appointed and lift where we stand, this position,” He may say, “this is not nothing can keep this divine work Every Calling Is an Opportunity my calling for you. It is my desire from moving upward and forward. to Serve and Grow instead that you lift where you stand.” Brethren, may we cease to aspire No calling is beneath us. Every call- God knows what is best for us. and cease to retire! ing provides an opportunity to serve May we always remember this pro- and to grow. The Lord organized the An Assignment Only You Can Perform found lesson: that we are banner bear- Church in a way that offers each Every priesthood holder stands at ers of the Lord Jesus Christ, upheld by member an opportunity for service, a unique place and has an important the Holy Spirit of God, faithful and which, in turn, leads to personal spiri- task that only he can perform. true to the end, each one devoted to tual growth. Whatever your calling, I We all have heard stories of how give our all to the cause of Zion and urge you to see it as an opportunity President Monson visits and blesses bound by covenant to stand close not only to strengthen and bless oth- the elderly and the sick, always attend- together and lift where we stand. ers but also to become what Heavenly ing to their needs and bringing them For this I pray, and I leave you my Father wants you to become. cheer, comfort, and love. President blessing and my love in the name of When traveling to the stakes of Monson has a natural way about him Jesus Christ, amen. ■ Zion for the purpose of reorganizing that makes people feel better about a stake presidency, I have sometimes themselves. Wouldn’t it be wonderful NOTES 1. The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson (1988), been surprised when, during an inter- if President Monson could visit and 451–52; see also Ensign, “Provo Tabernacle view, a brother would tell me that he watch over every family in the Church? Rededicated,” Dec. 1986, 70. had received an impression that he It would. But, of course, he can’t— 2. Matthew 20:27. 3. See Matthew 4:8–10. would be in the next presidency. and he shouldn’t. The Lord has not 4. See Luke 16:19–31. When I first heard this, I wasn’t asked him to do that. The Lord has 5. In Gene A. Sessions, ed., “Biographies and sure how to react. asked us, as home teachers, to love Reminiscences from the James Henry Moyle Collection,” typescript, Church It took some time before the Holy and watch over our assigned families. Archives, The Church of Jesus Christ of Spirit gave me understanding. I The Lord has not asked President Latter-day Saints, 203.

56 repair themselves, and they develop greater strength. Increased spiritual O Ye That Embark strength is a gift from God which He can give when we push in His service PRESIDENT HENRY B. EYRING to our limits. Through the power of First Counselor in the First Presidency the Atonement of Jesus Christ, our natures can be changed. Then our power to carry burdens can be Our power to carry burdens can be increased increased more than enough to com- more than enough to compensate for the increased pensate for the increased service we service we will be asked to give. will be asked to give. That helps me understand when I see someone else who makes priest- hood service look easy. I know that did on the streets of a strange city they have either passed hard tests or when your mission president charged that the tests lie ahead. So rather than you to speak to every person you met envying them, I stand ready to help to testify of the Savior and of the when the going gets harder for them, Restoration of the gospel. because it surely will. You may have thought then, “Once That testing of our limits in priest- I finish my mission, being a faithful hood service is made necessary by priesthood holder will get easier.” But God’s plan to qualify His children to in a few years you found yourself get- live with Him again forever. Heavenly ting even less sleep at night, while try- Father loves His children. He offered ing to support a wife and a new baby, us eternal life, to live with Him again in being kind and loving, scrambling to families and in glory forever. To qualify get some education, reaching out to us to receive that gift, He gave us a the members of your elders quorum, mortal body, the opportunity to be perhaps even helping them to move tempted to sin, and a way to be their furniture, and trying to find time cleansed from that sin and to rise in to serve your ancestors in the temple. the First Resurrection. He gave us His y dear brethren, tonight I You may have kept a smile on your Beloved Son, Jehovah, as our Savior to wish to encourage priest- face with the thought: “When I get a make that possible. The Savior was Mhood holders who at times little older, being a faithful priesthood born in mortal life, was tempted but feel overwhelmed with their responsi- holder will not require so much. It never sinned, and then in Gethsemane bilities. That is a challenge I have spo- will get easier.” and on Golgotha paid the price of our ken of before. I return to it because it Those of you further down the sins so that we could be cleansed. The returns so often in the lives of those I road are smiling because you know purifying can come only to those who love and serve. something about priesthood service. have faith enough in Jesus Christ to Most of you have discovered that It is this: the more faithful service you repent of sin, be cleansed through the your priesthood duties will stretch give, the more the Lord asks of you. ordinance of baptism, and make and you to the point that you wonder if Your smile is a happy one because keep covenants to obey all His com- you can stretch that far. It may have you know that He increases our mandments. And there was to be a happened when you were asked to power to carry the heavier load. fierce enemy of our souls, Lucifer, speak in a stake conference before The tough part of that reality, how- who would with his legions relentlessly hundreds of people. For the recent ever, is that for Him to give you that try to capture every child of God to convert, it may have been being asked increased power you must go in ser- keep him or her from having the joy to pray in public or teach a class for vice and faith to your outer limits. of eternal life. the first time. For some, it may have It is like building muscle strength. In His kindness and in great trust, been trying to learn a language in a You must break down your muscles to Heavenly Father, with the Savior, missionary training center. If that build them up. You push muscles to allowed a selected few of His sons on didn’t take you to your limit, it surely the point of exhaustion. Then they earth to hold the priesthood. We have

NOVEMBER 2008 57 the authority and the power to act in prophet’s mind as he laid his hands on they that be with them. God’s name, to offer the true gospel my head: “And whoso receiveth you, “And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, of Jesus Christ and its ordinances to there I will be also, for I will go before I pray thee, open his eyes, that he as many of Heavenly Father’s children your face. I will be on your right hand may see. And the Lord opened the as we can. So you can sense the mag- and on your left, and my Spirit shall be eyes of the young man; and he saw: nitude of our trust from God. And in your hearts, and mine angels round and, behold, the mountain was full you can sense its supreme impor- about you, to bear you up.”1 of horses and chariots of fire round tance and the opposition we face. The promise which President about Elisha.”2 It is not surprising that we feel from Monson remembered and quoted Like that servant of Elisha, there time to time nearly overwhelmed. Your was fulfilled for me. Confidence are more with you than those you can thought that “I’m not sure I can do replaced doubt, the Spirit came, med- see opposed to you. Some who are this” is evidence that you are under- ical helpers were inspired, my life with you will be invisible to your mor- standing what it means to hold the was preserved, and I was borne up. tal eyes. The Lord will bear you up priesthood of God. The fact is that you Because of that blessing by President and will at times do it by calling oth- can’t do it by yourself. The responsibil- Monson, it will always be easy for me ers to stand with you. That is why we ity is too difficult and too important to remember the Savior and trust have quorums. That is why quorum for your mortal powers and for mine. His promise that He goes before and leaders look at faces and into eyes in Recognizing that is at the foundation beside us in His service. quorum meetings. That is why the of great priesthood service. I know that the promise of angels bishop is more than presiding in the When those feelings of inadequacy to bear us up is real. You might want priests quorum. He is watching the strike us, it is the time to remember to bring to memory the assurance faces of the priests. You will have such the Savior. He assures us that we of Elisha to his frightened servant. a bishop or such an elders quorum don’t do this work alone. There are That assurance is ours when we feel president or such a mission president. scriptures to put on your mirror and close to being overwhelmed in our And he will come to help you and call to remember in the moments when service. Elisha faced real and terrible others to stand with you. It may be to you are doubting your capacity. opposition: call the right companion to serve with For instance, President Thomas S. “And when the servant of the man you in your time of need. Monson remembered the promised of God was risen early, and gone That suggests at least two things. words of the Savior as he blessed me forth, behold, an host compassed the One is to recognize and welcome six months ago to stand fearlessly in city both with horses and chariots. those whom the Lord sends to help my calling when it seemed hard. These And his servant said unto him, Alas, us. The other is to see in every assign- words of the Savior, which He gave my master! how shall we do? ment the opportunity to strengthen to His tiny band of priesthood holders “And he answered, Fear not: for another. A mission president once in this dispensation, came to the they that be with us are more than told me of a missionary he assigned

58 to more than 12 or 13 companions. He said to me, “Every one of those companions was about to go home early or be sent home. But we didn’t lose one of them.” When I mentioned that miraculous fact later to the companion who saved so many at the point of their being overwhelmed, I got a response which surprised and taught me. It was this: “I don’t think that story is true. I never had a companion who was failing.” I could see that a mission president had been inspired to send the right angel time after time. We can expect in our service to have help sent to us at the right time who will see strength in us and lift us up. And we can look forward to being the one sent by the Lord to encourage another. I can tell you from experience something about how to help if you are the one sent. Shortly after I was called to the Quorum of the Twelve, I got a phone call from President Faust, counselor in the First Presidency. He asked me to come to his office. I went with some concern as to why he would take the time to visit with me. After some pleasantries, he looked at me and said, “Has it happened yet?” When I looked puzzled he went on to they will follow your counsel, they will a cause higher than self-interest. I felt say, “I’ve been watching you in meet- gain the strength they need and to it one bright spring day on a lawn. ings. It seems to me that you have spare. I was being commissioned to defend been feeling that your calling is Time and again over your life, the my country. We were not then at war, beyond you and that you are not Lord has been giving you the experi- but I was heading for an unknown qualified.” ences to build strength, courage, and service that I knew would require all I said that doubt had come to me, determination. He knew how much I had to offer, perhaps my life. I raised as if I had hit a wall. I expected that you would need that to serve Him. my right hand with the others to he was going to reassure me. I told Some of it may have come, as it did pledge that I would defend my coun- him that I appreciated his being for me, when you stood with other try with “true faith and allegiance” aware of my doubts and asked for his priesthood holders and said aloud the and that “I take this obligation freely, help. But I was surprised by his kind, words: “Therefore, O ye that embark without any mental reservations or firm reply. He said, “Don’t ask me. in the service of God, see that ye purpose of evasion; and that I will Go to Him.” Then he pointed up to serve him with all your heart, might, well and faithfully discharge the heaven. Now years later I sit in that mind and strength, that ye may stand duties of the office upon which I am same office. When I walk into it I look blameless before God at the last day.”3 about to enter; So help me God.”4 up and remember him and how he When you committed to that high I have no doubt that the power to taught me by example how to help standard and met it, the Lord was keep that promise, which I kept, had those who are feeling overwhelmed building a trust and strength in you been forged in me from the time I in the Lord’s service. Find a way to that would be there when you needed was a deacon. In my early years in send them with confidence to Him. If it, whenever you were called to serve the priesthood, I sat a number of

NOVEMBER 2008 59 times in what was then called a “mis- sionary farewell.” There are now so many rising to the call to serve To Learn, to Do, that we let them speak only briefly in a sacrament meeting before they go. But then an entire meeting was focused on the missionary who was to Be embarking. It always included some PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON selected music. I can still feel what I felt as a quartet of returned mis- sionaries would sing, “I’ll go where May we learn what we should learn, do what we should do, you want me to go, dear Lord,” and be what we should be. and the words went on to pledge, “I’ll say what you want me to say,” and finally, “I’ll be what you want me to be.”5 My heart was stirred in those days He said, “He’s been called to a then as it is now with a conviction Spanish-speaking mission, and he’s that the promise was true for me and absolutely certain he cannot learn for us in all our priesthood service. Spanish.” We will find joy in going wherever the I said, “I have a suggestion for Lord would have us serve. We will be you. Tomorrow morning have him given the revelation to speak His attend a class learning Japanese. words to invite Heavenly Father’s And then have him report to you children to become changed by the at 12:00 noon.” Atonement and fit to go home and The next morning he phoned at live with Him. And I felt then as I do 10:00! He said, “The young man is now that our faithful service would here with me now, and he wants me allow Him to change our hearts to fit to know he’s absolutely certain he us for His companionship and to can learn Spanish.” serve Him forever. When there’s a will, there’s a way. I bear you my witness that when Now, as I speak to you tonight, truly we give our all in priesthood service, you are a royal priesthood, assembled the Lord will give us all the courage ou’ve seen a witness tonight of in many places but in unity. In all likeli- we need and the assurance that He the strength of the two coun- hood this is the largest assemblage goes with us and that angels will bear Yselors in this First Presidency. I of priesthood holders ever to come us up. stand before you and declare this First together. Your devotion to your sacred I testify that we are called of God. Presidency is united as one under the callings is inspiring. Your desire to This is His true Church, and you hold direction of the Lord Jesus Christ. learn your duty is evident. The purity His everlasting priesthood. I am a I want to especially thank this mis- of your souls brings heaven closer to witness that President Thomas S. sionary choir. I had an experience I you and your families. Monson holds all the keys of the think they may be interested in, and Many areas of the world have priesthood and exercises them in you may find it interesting also. Many experienced difficult economic times. the world today. In the name of years ago I had a desperate call from Businesses have failed, jobs have Jesus Christ, amen. ■ the head of the missionary training been lost, and investments have been center. He said, “President Monson, jeopardized. We must make certain NOTES I have a missionary who is going that those for whom we share respon- 1. D&C 84:88. 2. 2 Kings 6:15–17. home. Nothing can prevent him sibility do not go hungry or unclothed 3. D&C 4:2. from quitting.” or unsheltered. When the priesthood 4. “Oaths of Enlistment and Oaths of Office,” I replied, “Well, that’s not singular. of this Church works together as one http://www.army.mil/CMH/faq/oaths.htm. 5. “I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go,” It’s happened before. What’s his in meeting these vexing conditions, Hymns, no. 270. problem?” near miracles take place.

60 We urge all Latter-day Saints to be The worth of souls is indeed great in First, learn what we should prudent in their planning, to be con- the sight of God. Ours is the pre- learn. servative in their living, and to avoid cious privilege, armed with this Second, do what we should do. excessive or unnecessary debt. The knowledge, to make a difference in And third, be what we should be. financial affairs of the Church are the lives of others. The words found Let us discuss these objectives, that being managed in this manner, for we in Ezekiel could well pertain to all of we might be profitable servants in the are aware that your tithing and other us who follow the Savior in this sight of our Lord. contributions have not come without sacred work: First, learn what we should learn. sacrifice and are sacred funds. “A new heart . . . will I give you, and The Apostle Paul placed an urgency Let us make our homes sanctuaries a new spirit will I put within you.... on our efforts to learn. He said to the of righteousness, places of prayer, and “And I will put my spirit within you, Philippians, “One thing I do, forget- abodes of love that we might merit and cause you to walk in my statutes, ting those things which are behind, the blessings that can come only from and ye shall keep my judgments, and and reaching forth unto those things our Heavenly Father. We need His do them. which are before, I press toward the guidance in our daily lives. “And ye shall dwell in the land that mark for the prize of the high calling In this vast throng are priesthood I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be of God in Christ Jesus.”2 And to the power and the capacity to reach out my people, and I will be your God.”1 Hebrews he urged, “Lay aside . . . and share the glorious gospel with How might we merit this promise? sin[;]... let us run with patience the others. As has been mentioned, we What will qualify us to receive this race . . . set before us, looking [for an have the hands to lift others from blessing? Is there a guide to follow? example] unto Jesus the author and complacency and inactivity. We have May I suggest three imperatives finisher of our faith.”3 the hearts to serve faithfully in our for our consideration. They apply to President Stephen L Richards, who priesthood callings and thereby the deacon as well as to the high served for many years in the Quorum inspire others to walk on higher priest. They are within our reach. A of the Twelve Apostles and then in the ground and to avoid the swamps of kind Heavenly Father will help us in First Presidency, spoke often to hold- sin which threaten to engulf so many. our quest. ers of the priesthood and emphasized

NOVEMBER 2008 61 his philosophy pertaining to it. He Each priesthood holder attending declared: “The Priesthood is usually this session tonight has a calling to simply defined as ‘the power of God serve, to put forth his best efforts in delegated to man.’ This definition, I the work assigned to him. No assign- think, is accurate.” ment is menial in the work of the Lord, He continued: “But for practical for each has eternal consequences. purposes I like to define the Priest- President John Taylor warned us, “If hood in terms of service and I fre- you do not magnify your callings, God quently call it ‘the perfect plan of will hold you responsible for those service.’ I do so because it seems to me whom you might have saved had you that it is only through the utilization of done your duty.”7 And who of us can the divine power conferred on men afford to be responsible for the delay that they may ever hope to realize the of eternal life of a human soul? If great full import and vitality of this endow- joy is the reward of saving one soul, ment. It is an instrument of service . . . then how terrible must be the remorse and the man who fails to use it is apt to of those whose timid efforts have lose it, for we are plainly told by revela- allowed a child of God to go unwarned tion that he who neglects it ‘shall not Witnesses of the Book of Mormon. or unaided so that he has to wait be counted worthy to stand.’ ”4 While surrounding the beautiful gran- till a dependable servant of God President Harold B. Lee, 11th ite shaft which marks the grave, a high comes along. President of the Church and one of councilor would present background The old adage is ever true: “Do the great teachers in the Church, put concerning the life of Martin Harris, your duty, that is best; leave unto the his counsel in easy-to-understand read from the Book of Mormon his Lord the rest.” terms. Said he: “When one becomes a testimony, and then bear his own wit- Most service given by priesthood holder of the priesthood, he becomes ness to the truth. The young men lis- holders is accomplished quietly, with- an agent of the Lord. He should think tened with rapt attention, touched the out fanfare. A friendly smile, a warm of his calling as though he were on granite marker, and pondered the handclasp, a sincere testimony of truth the Lord’s errand.”5 words they had heard and the feelings can literally lift lives, change human Now, some of you may be shy they had felt. nature, and save precious souls. by nature or consider yourselves At a park in Logan, lunch was An example of such service was the inadequate to respond affirmatively enjoyed. The group of young men missionary experience of Juliusz and to a calling. Remember that this would then lie down on the lawn at Dorothy Fussek, who were called to work is not yours and mine alone. the Logan temple and gaze upward at fill a two-year mission in Poland. It is the Lord’s work, and when we its lofty spires. Often beautiful white Brother Fussek was born in Poland. are on the Lord’s errand, we are clouds would hurry past the spires, He spoke the language. He loved the entitled to the Lord’s help. Remem- moved along by a gentle breeze. people. Sister Fussek was English and ber that the Lord will shape the back The purpose of temples was taught. knew little of Poland and its people. to bear the burden placed upon it. Covenants and promises became Trusting in the Lord, they While the formal classroom may much more than words. The desire embarked on their assignment. The be intimidating at times, some of the to be worthy to enter those temple living conditions were primitive, the most effective teaching takes place doors entered those youthful hearts. work lonely, their task immense. A other than in the chapel or the class- Heaven was very close. Learning what mission had not at that time been room. Well do I remember that some we should learn was assured. established in Poland. The assignment years ago, members holding the Number two, do what we should given the Fusseks was to prepare the Aaronic Priesthood would eagerly look do. In a revelation on priesthood, way, that a mission could be estab- forward to an annual outing commem- given through Joseph Smith the lished so that other missionaries orating the restoration of the Aaronic Prophet, recorded as the 107th sec- could be called to serve, people could Priesthood. By the busload the young tion of the Doctrine and Covenants, be taught, converts could be bap- men of our stake journeyed 90 miles “learning” moves to “doing” as we tized, branches could be established, (145 km) north to the Clarkston read, “Wherefore, now let every man and chapels could be erected. Cemetery, where we viewed the grave learn his duty, and to act in the office in Did Elder and Sister Fussek despair of Martin Harris, one of the Three which he is appointed, in all diligence.”6 because of the enormity of their

62 NOVEMBER 2008 63 GENERAL AUTHORITIES OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

October 2008

THE FIRST PRESIDENCY

Henry B. Eyring Thomas S. Monson Dieter F. Uchtdorf First Counselor President Second Counselor THE QUORUM OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES

Boyd K. Packer L. Tom Perry Russell M. Nelson Dallin H. Oaks M. Russell Ballard Joseph B. Wirthlin

Richard G. Scott Robert D. Hales Jeffrey R. Holland David A. Bednar Quentin L. Cook D. Todd Christofferson

THE PRESIDENCY OF THE SEVENTY

Neil L. Andersen Ronald A. Rasband Claudio R. M. Costa Steven E. Snow Walter F. González L. Whitney Clayton Jay E. Jensen THE FIRST QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY THE SECOND QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY (in alphabetical order) (in alphabetical order)

Marcos A. AidukaitisCarlos H. Amado David S. Baxter Shayne M. Bowen Gérald Caussé Craig C. Christensen Gary J. Coleman Spencer J. Condie Lawrence E. Corbridge Benjamín De Hoyos Mervyn B. Arnold Douglas L. Callister Tad R. Callister Craig A. Cardon

John B. DicksonCharles Didier David F. Evans Enrique R. Falabella Eduardo Gavarret Carlos A. Godoy Christoffel Golden Jr. C. Scott Grow Bruce C. Hafen Donald L. Hallstrom Shirley D. Christensen Don R. Clarke James M. Dunn Keith R. Edwards

James J. Hamula Keith K. Hilbig Richard G. Hinckley Marlin K. Jensen Daniel L. Johnson Kenneth Johnson Paul V. Johnson Yoshihiko Kikuchi Paul E. Koelliker Erich W. Kopischke Stanley G. Ellis Daryl H. Garn Larry W. Gibbons Spencer V. Jones

John M. MadsenRichard J. Maynes Lynn A. Mickelsen Marcus B. Nash Dennis B. Glenn L. Pace Allan F. Packer Kevin W. Pearson Anthony D. Perkins Paul B. Pieper Won Yong Ko Clate W. Mask Jr. Robert C. Oaks William W. Parmley Neuenschwander

Rafael E. Pino Bruce D. Porter Carl B. Pratt Lynn G. Robbins Cecil O. Ulisses Soares Gary E. Stevenson Michael John U. Teh José A. Teixeira Octaviano Tenorio Wolfgang H. Paul W. Douglas Shumway Lowell M. Snow Paul K. Sybrowsky Samuelson Jr.

Francisco J. Viñas William R. Walker F. Michael Watson Lance B. Wickman Jorge F. Zeballos Claudio D. Zivic W. Craig Zwick Kent D. Watson Robert S. Wood

THE PRESIDING BISHOPRIC

Richard C. Edgley H. David Burton Keith B. McMullin First Counselor Presiding Bishop Second Counselor Church members in Ukraine (above, in front of Kiev temple construction site) and Nigeria (below) gather to enjoy a session of general conference.

Latter-day Saints in Brazil (top left and top right) study the scriptures and visit between sessions of conference. Above: A young member.

66 assignment? Not for a moment. They knew their calling was from God. They prayed for His divine help, and they devoted themselves wholeheartedly to their work. They remained in Poland not two years but five years. All of the foregoing objectives were realized. Elders Russell M. Nelson, Hans B. Ringger, and I, accompanied by Elder Fussek, met with Minister Adam Wopatka of the Polish government, and we heard him say, “Your church is welcome here. You may build your buildings; you may send your mission- aries. You are welcome in Poland. This man,” pointing to Juliusz Fussek, “has served your church well. You can be And what manner of man was He? excerpts of that letter from my friend grateful for his example and his work.” What example did He set in His ser- Theron W. Borup, who passed away Like the Fusseks, let us do what vice? From John chapter 10 we learn: three years ago at the age of 90: we should do in the work of the “I am the good shepherd: the good “At the age of eight, when I was Lord. Then we can, with Juliusz and shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. baptized and received the Holy Ghost, Dorothy Fussek, echo the Psalm: “My “But he that is an hireling, and not I was much impressed about being help cometh from the Lord, which the shepherd, whose own the sheep good and able to have the Holy Ghost made heaven and earth ...: he that are not, seeth the wolf coming, and to be a help throughout my life. I was keepeth thee will not slumber. leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the told that the Holy Ghost associated Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall wolf catcheth them, and scattereth only in good company and that when neither slumber nor sleep.”8 the sheep. evil entered our lives, he would leave. Third, be what we should be. Paul “The hireling fleeth, because he is Not knowing when I would need his counseled his beloved friend and an hireling, and careth not for the promptings and guidance, I tried to so associate Timothy, “Be thou an exam- sheep.” live that I would not lose this gift. On ple of the believers, in word, in con- Said the Lord: “I am the good one occasion it saved my life. versation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, shepherd, and know my sheep, and “During World War II, I was an in purity.”9 am known of mine. engineer-gunner in a B-24 bomber I would urge all of us to pray con- “As the Father knoweth me, even fighting in the South Pacific. . . . One cerning our assignments and to seek so know I the Father: and I lay down day there was an announcement that divine help, that we might be success- my life for the sheep.”12 the longest bombing flight ever made ful in accomplishing that which we Brethren, may we learn what we would be attempted to knock out an are called to do. Someone has said should learn, do what we should do, oil refinery. The promptings of the that “the recognition of power higher and be what we should be. By so Spirit told me I would be assigned on than man himself does not in any doing, the blessings of heaven will this flight but that I would not lose my sense debase him.”10 He must seek, attend. We will know that we are not life. At the time I was the president of believe in, pray, and hope that he will alone. He who notes the sparrow’s fall the LDS group. find. No such sincere, prayerful effort will, in His own way, acknowledge us. “The combat was ferocious as we will go unanswered: that is the very Several years ago I received a letter flew over Borneo. Our plane was hit constitution of the philosophy of from a longtime friend. He bore his by attacking planes and soon burst faith. Divine favor will attend those testimony in that letter. I would like into flames, and the pilot told us to who humbly seek it. to share part of it with you tonight, prepare to jump. I went out last. We From the Book of Mormon comes since it illustrates the strength of the were shot at by enemy pilots as we counsel that says it all. The Lord priesthood in one who learned what floated down. I had trouble inflating speaks: “Therefore, what manner of he should learn, who did what he my life raft. Bobbing up and down men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto should do, and who always tried to in the water, I began to drown and you, even as I am.”11 be what he should be. I shall read passed out. I came to momentarily

NOVEMBER 2008 67 SUNDAY MORNING SESSION October 5, 2008

and cried, ‘God save me!’ . . . Again I tried inflating the life raft and this time was successful. With just enough air in Our Hearts it to keep me afloat, I rolled over on top of it, too exhausted to move. “For three days we floated about in enemy territory with ships all about Knit as One us and planes overhead. Why they PRESIDENT HENRY B. EYRING couldn’t see a yellow group of rafts on blue water is a mystery,” he wrote. First Counselor in the First Presidency “A storm came up, and waves thirty feet high almost tore our rafts apart. The Saints can accomplish any purpose of the Lord Three days went by with no food when fully united in righteousness. or water. The others asked me if I prayed. I answered that I did pray and we would indeed be rescued. That evening we saw our submarine that was there to rescue us, but it passed and with our Heavenly Father. by. The next morning it did [the same. You have heard that message of We knew] this was the last day [it unity from me more than once. I may would] be in the area. Then came the well speak of it in the future. I have promptings of the Holy Ghost. ‘You heard it from every prophet of God have the priesthood. Command the in my lifetime. A plea for unity was sub to pick you up.’ Silently I prayed, the last message I remember from ‘In the name of Jesus Christ, and by President David O. McKay. The Lord’s the power of the priesthood, turn prophets have always called for unity. about and pick us up.’ In a few min- The need for that gift to be granted to utes, they were alongside of us. When us and the challenge to maintain it on deck, the captain . . . said, ‘I don’t will grow greater in the days ahead, in know how we ever found you, for which we will be prepared as a people we were not even looking for you.’ for our glorious destiny. I knew.”13 My message is that we are doing I leave with you my testimony that better. Fathers and mothers are plead- this work in which we are engaged is ing for unity in their homes, and those true. The Lord is at the helm. That we y beloved brothers and sis- prayers are being answered. Families may ever follow Him is my sincere ters, it is a joy to be gathered are praying together night and morn- prayer, and I ask it in the name of Mwith you on this Sabbath ing. I was invited to kneel at bedtime Jesus Christ, amen. ■ morning. We live in many different with a family when I was a guest in circumstances. We will come from their home. The smallest child was NOTES 1. Ezekiel 36:26–28. every nation and many ethnic back- asked to be voice. He prayed like a 2. Philippians 3:13–14. grounds into the kingdom of God. patriarch for every person in the family, 3. Hebrews 12:1–2. And that prophesied gathering will by name. I opened my eyes for an 4. Stephen L Richards, in Conference Report, Apr. 1937, 46. accelerate. instant to see the faces of the other 5. Harold B. Lee, Stand Ye in Holy Places We see increased conflict between children and the parents. I could tell (1974), 255. peoples in the world around us. that they were joining their faith and 6. D&C 107:99. 7. John Taylor, “Discourse,” Deseret News, Those divisions and differences could their hearts in that little boy’s prayer. Aug. 7, 1878, 2. infect us. That is why my message of Some Relief Society sisters recently 8. Psalm 121:2–4. 9. 1 Timothy 4:12. hope today is that a great day of unity prayed together as they prepared to 10. Stephen L Richards, in Conference Report, is coming. The Lord Jehovah will visit for the first time a young widow Oct. 1937, 10. return to live with those who have whose husband died suddenly. They 11. 3 Nephi 27:27. 12. John 10:11–15. become His people and will find them wanted to know what to do and how 13. Personal correspondence; emphasis added. united, of one heart, unified with Him to work together to help prepare the

68 home for family and friends who Father is granting it. We know from kingdom of my Father; yea, your joy would come at the time of the funeral. experience that joy comes when we shall be full, even as the Father hath They needed to know what words of are blessed with unity. We yearn, as given me fulness of joy; and ye shall comfort they could speak for the Lord. spirit children of our Heavenly Father, be even as I am, and I am even as the An answer to their prayer came. When for that joy which we once had with Father; and the Father and I are one.”2 they arrived at the house, each sister Him in the life before this one. His The Lord has given us guides to moved to complete a task. The house desire is to grant us that sacred wish know what to do to receive the bless- was ready so quickly that some sisters for unity out of His love for us. ing and joy of ever-increasing unity. regretted not being able to do more. He cannot grant it to us as individu- The Book of Mormon recounts a time Words of comfort were spoken which als. The joy of unity He wants so much of success. It was in the days of Alma fit perfectly together. They had given to give us is not solitary. We must seek at the Waters of Mormon. What the the Lord’s service as one, hearts knit it and qualify for it with others. It is people did in those difficult and dan- together. not surprising then that God urges us gerous circumstances gives us both a You have seen evidence, as I have, to gather so that He can bless us. He guide and encouragement. that we are moving toward becoming wants us to gather into families. He Everything Alma and his people one. The miracle of unity is being has established classes, wards, and were inspired to do was pointed granted to us as we pray and work for branches and commanded us to meet at helping people choose to have it in the Lord’s way. Our hearts will be together often. In those gatherings, their hearts changed through the knit together in unity. God has prom- which God has designed for us, lies Atonement of Jesus Christ. That ised that blessing to His faithful Saints our great opportunity. We can pray is the only way God can grant the whatever their differences in back- and work for the unity that will bring blessing of being of one heart. ground and whatever conflict rages us joy and multiply our power to serve. In Mosiah we read: around them. He was praying for us as To the Three Nephites, the Savior “And they were called the church well as His disciples when He asked promised joy in unity with Him as of God, or the church of Christ, His Father that we might be one.1 their final reward after their faithful from that time forward. And it came The reason that we pray and ask for service. He said, “Ye shall have fulness to pass that whosoever was baptized that blessing is the same reason the of joy; and ye shall sit down in the by the power and authority of God

NOVEMBER 2008 69 was added to his church. . . . that I would find a way to encourage progress to become one is to be hum- “And he commanded them that someone to testify of the Savior and ble. Pride is the great enemy of unity. they should teach nothing save it His mission. Sometimes the parents You have seen and felt its terrible were the things which he had taught, did it. On our best nights we found a effects. Just days ago I watched as two and which had been spoken by the way to encourage the children to do people—good people—began with a mouth of the holy prophets. it, either by presenting the lesson or mild disagreement. It started as a dis- “Yea, even he commanded them answering questions. When testimony cussion of what was true but became that they should preach nothing save about the Savior was borne, the Holy a contest about who was right. Voices it were repentance and faith on the Ghost verified it. On those nights we became gradually louder. Faces Lord, who had redeemed his people. felt our hearts being knit together. became a little more flushed. Instead “And he commanded them that In addition to ordinances there are of talking about the issue, people there should be no contention one principles we are following as a peo- began talking about themselves, giv- with another, but that they should ple which are leading to greater unity. ing evidence why their view, given look forward with one eye, having One of those principles is revela- their great ability and background, one faith and one baptism, having tion. Revelation is the only way we can was more likely to be right. their hearts knit together in unity know how to follow the will of the You would have felt alarm as I did. and in love one towards another. Lord together. It requires light from We have seen the life-destroying “And thus he commanded them above. The Holy Ghost will testify to effects of such tragic conflict. You and to preach. And thus they became our hearts, and the hearts of those I know people who left the fellowship the children of God.”3 gathered around with us, what He of the Saints over injured pride. That is why Alma commanded the would have us do. And it is by keeping Happily I am seeing more and people to teach faith and repentance. His commandments that we can have more skillful peacemakers who calm That is why my children came to our hearts knit together as one. troubled waters before harm is done. expect in every lesson in family night A second principle to guide our You could be one of those peace- makers, whether you are in the conflict or an observer. One way I have seen it done is to search for anything on which we agree. To be that peacemaker, you need to have the simple faith that as children of God, with all our differ- ences, it is likely that in a strong posi- tion we take, there will be elements of truth. The great peacemaker, the restorer of unity, is the one who finds a way to help people see the truth they share. That truth they share is always greater and more important to them than their differences. You can help yourself and others to see that common ground if you ask for help from God and then act. He will answer your prayer to help restore peace, as He has mine. That same principle applies as we build unity with people who are from vastly different backgrounds. The chil- dren of God have more in common than they have differences. And even the differences can be seen as an opportunity. God will help us see a difference in someone else not as a

70 source of irritation but as a contribu- Presidents of countries, governors, tion. The Lord can help you see and and leaders of worldwide charitable value what another person brings organizations have praised us—in my which you lack. More than once the hearing—with words like these: “Your Lord has helped me see His kindness church was the first on the ground to in giving me association with some- help when disaster came. Hundreds one whose difference from me was of your people arrived who brought just the help I needed. That has been everything with them which the sur- the Lord’s way of adding something I vivors needed. They even brought lacked to serve Him better. their own tents and supplies. They That leads to another principle of were tireless and cheerful. They unity. It is to speak well of each other. seemed to know where to go and Think of the last time you were asked when.” Then there has come a line what you thought about how some- usually something like this: “Your one else was doing in your family or church knows how to organize to get in the Church. It happened to me things done.” more than once in the past week. I thank them without saying that Now, there are times we must judge feel, for instance, unity with that the miracle lies not in organization others. Sometimes we are required to bishop and with the person who alone, but in the people’s hearts. The pronounce such judgments. But more asked your opinion, not because the Saints came in the name of the Lord often we can make a choice. For bishop is perfect or because the per- to give the succor He would give. instance, suppose someone asks you son asking you shares your generous They came listening to the direction what you think of the new bishop. evaluation. It will be because the Lord of the Lord’s chosen leaders. Because As we get better and better at forg- will let you feel His appreciation for their hearts were knit, they were mag- ing unity, we will think of a scripture choosing to step away from the possi- nified in their power. when we hear that question: “And now, bility of sowing seeds of disunity. I bear you my solemn witness that my brethren, seeing that ye know the We must follow that same principle the unity we now experience will light by which ye may judge, which as the Lord gathers more and more increase. God the Father lives. He light is the light of Christ, see that ye people who are not like us. What will hears and answers our prayers in love. do not judge wrongfully; for with that become more obvious to us is that The Savior Jesus Christ, resurrected same judgment which ye judge ye shall the Atonement brings the same and glorious, lives and reaches out to also be judged.”4 changes in all of us. We become disci- us in mercy. This is His true Church. Realizing that you see others in an ples who are meek, loving, easy to be President Monson is the living imperfect light will make you likely to entreated, and at the same time fear- prophet of God. If we are united in be a little more generous in what you less and faithful in all things. We still sustaining him with all our hearts, say. In addition to that scripture, you live in different countries, but we with willing obedience to do what might remember your mother say- come into the Church through a God would have us do, we will move ing—mine did—“If you can’t say any- process that changes us. We become together in power to go wherever thing good about a person, don’t say by the gifts of the Spirit what the God would have us go and to become anything at all.” Apostle Paul saw: what He wants us to be. That will help you look for what is “For through him we both have I leave you my blessing that you best in the bishop’s performance and access by one Spirit unto the Father. will enjoy unity in your homes and character. The Savior, as your loving “Now therefore ye are no more in the Church. And I leave you the judge, will surely do that as He judges strangers and foreigners, but fellow- Lord’s promise that you will have the your performance and mine. The citizens with the saints, and of the righteous desire of your heart for that scripture and what you heard from household of God.”5 joy in unity. In the sacred name of your mother may well lead you to With the unity I see increasing, Jesus Christ, amen. ■ describe what is best in the bishop’s the Lord will be able to perform what NOTES performance and his good intent. I the world will think as miraculous. 1. See John 17:21; see also D&C 50:43; 93:3. can promise you a feeling of peace The Saints can accomplish any pur- 2. 3 Nephi 28:10. 3. Mosiah 18:17, 19–22. and joy when you speak generously of pose of the Lord when fully united in 4. Moroni 7:18. others in the Light of Christ. You will righteousness. 5. Ephesians 2:18–19.

NOVEMBER 2008 71 uttered the incomparable Christian response: “Father, forgive them; Christian Courage: for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). Some people mistakenly think responses such as silence, meekness, The Price forgiveness, and bearing humble testi- mony are passive or weak. But to “love [our] enemies, bless them that curse [us], do good to them that hate of Discipleship [us], and pray for them which despite- ELDER ROBERT D. HALES fully use [us], and persecute [us]” Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (Matthew 5:44) takes faith, strength, and, most of all, Christian courage. The Prophet Joseph Smith demon- Answering our accusers in the Savior’s way. strated this courage throughout his life. Though he “suffer[ed] severe persecution at the hands of all classes of men, both religious and irreligious” of mortality’s great tests comes (Joseph Smith—History 1:27), he did when our beliefs are questioned not retaliate or give in to hatred. Like or criticized. In such moments, we all true disciples of Christ, he stood may want to respond aggressively— with the Savior by loving others in a to “put up our dukes.” But these are tolerant and compassionate way. That important opportunities to step back, is Christian courage. pray, and follow the Savior’s example. When we do not retaliate—when Remember that Jesus Himself was we turn the other cheek and resist despised and rejected by the world. feelings of anger—we too stand with And in Lehi’s dream, those coming the Savior. We show forth His love, to the Savior also endured “mocking which is the only power that can sub- and pointing . . . fingers” (1 Nephi due the adversary and answer our 8:27). “The world hath hated [my dis- accusers without accusing them in ciples],” Jesus said, “because they are return. That is not weakness. That is not of the world, even as I am not of Christian courage. the world” (John 17:14). But when Through the years we learn that we respond to our accusers as the challenges to our faith are not new, and e have gathered together as Savior did, we not only become more they aren’t likely to disappear soon. one, we have taken upon us Christlike, we invite others to feel His But true disciples of Christ see oppor- Wthe name of Jesus Christ, love and follow Him as well. tunity in the midst of opposition. and we are Christians. One of the To respond in a Christlike way can- In the Book of Mormon, the questions we would ask: why then, if not be scripted or based on a formula. prophet Abinadi was bound and we have that love of the Savior, would The Savior responded differently in brought before the evil King Noah. someone want to be an antagonist or every situation. When He was con- Although the king vigorously to attack us? fronted by wicked King Herod, He opposed Abinadi and eventually sen- Recently a group of bright, faithful remained silent. When He stood tenced him to death, Abinadi boldly young Latter-day Saints wrote down before Pilate, He bore a simple and taught the gospel and bore his testi- some of the most pressing questions powerful testimony of His divinity and mony anyway. Because Abinadi took on their minds. One sister asked, purpose. Facing the moneychangers advantage of that opportunity, a priest “Why doesn’t the Church defend who were defiling the temple, He named Alma was converted to the itself more actively when accusations exercised His divine responsibility to gospel and brought many souls unto are made against it?” preserve and protect that which was Christ. The courage of Abinadi and To her inquiry I would say that one sacred. Lifted up upon a cross, He Alma was Christian courage.

72 Experience shows that seasons of can most effectively respond to them. not weakness. It is a badge of negative publicity about the Church As true disciples seek guidance from Christian courage. can help accomplish the Lord’s pur- the Spirit, they receive inspiration tai- This is especially important in our poses. In 1983 the First Presidency lored to each encounter. And in every interactions with members of other wrote to Church leaders, “Opposition encounter, true disciples respond in Christian denominations. Surely our may be in itself an opportunity. ways that invite the Spirit of the Lord. Heavenly Father is saddened—and Among the continuing challenges Paul reminded the Corinthians that the devil laughs—when we con- faced by our missionaries is a lack of his preaching was “not with the entic- tentiously debate doctrinal differ- interest in religious matters and in our ing words of man’s wisdom, but in ences with our Christian neighbors. message. These criticisms create . . . demonstration of the Spirit and of This is not to suggest that we com- interest in the Church. . . . This pro- power” (1 Corinthians 2:4). Because promise our principles or dilute our vides an opportunity [for members] that power resides in the Spirit of the beliefs. We cannot change the doc- to present the truth to those whose Lord, we must never become con- trines of the restored gospel, even if attention is thus directed toward us.”1 tentious when we are discussing our teaching and obeying them makes us We can take advantage of such faith. As almost every missionary unpopular in the eyes of the world. opportunities in many ways: a kind learns, Bible bashing always drives Yet even as we feel to speak the word letter to the editor, a conversation the Spirit away. The Savior has said, of God with boldness, we must pray with a friend, a comment on a blog, “He that hath the spirit of contention to be filled with the Holy Ghost (see or a reassuring word to one who has is not of me” (3 Nephi 11:29). More Acts 4:29, 31). We should never con- made a disparaging comment. We can regrettable than the Church being fuse boldness with Satan’s counter- answer with love those who have accused of not being Christian is when feit: overbearance (see Alma 38:12). been influenced by misinformation Church members react to such accu- True disciples speak with quiet confi- and prejudice—who are “kept from sations in an un-Christlike way! May dence, not boastful pride. the truth because they know not our conversations with others always As true disciples, our primary where to find it” (D&C 123:12). I be marked by the fruits of the Spirit— concern must be others’ welfare, not assure you that to answer our accus- “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentle- personal vindication. Questions and ers in this way is never weakness. It is ness, goodness, faith, meekness, [and] criticisms give us an opportunity to Christian courage in action. temperance” (Galatians 5:22–23). reach out to others and demonstrate As we respond to others, each To be meek, as defined in Webster’s that they matter to our Heavenly circumstance will be different. dictionary, is “manifesting patience Father and to us. Our aim should be Fortunately, the Lord knows the and longsuffering: enduring injury to help them understand the truth, hearts of our accusers and how we without resentment.”2 Meekness is not defend our egos or score points

NOVEMBER 2008 73 Lehonti and his men camped upon a mount. The traitorous Amalickiah urged Lehonti to “come down” and meet him in the valley. But when Lehonti left the high ground, he was poisoned “by degrees” until he died, and his army fell into Amalickiah’s hands (see Alma 47). By arguments and accusations, some people bait us to leave the high ground. The high ground is where the light is. It’s where we see the first light of morning and the last light in the evening. It is the safe ground. It is true and where knowledge is. Sometimes others want us to come down off the high ground and join them in a theological scrum in the mud. These few contentious individuals are set on picking religious fights, online or in person. We are always better staying on the higher ground of mutual respect and love. In doing so, we follow the example of the prophet Nehemiah, who built a wall around Jerusalem. Nehemiah’s enemies entreated him to meet them on the plain, where “they thought to in a theological debate. Our heartfelt strong friendships with those who are do [him] mischief.” Unlike Lehonti, testimonies are the most powerful not members of our Church—school- however, Nehemiah wisely refused answer we can give our accusers. And mates, colleagues at work, and friends their offer with this message: “I am such testimonies can only be borne in and neighbors throughout the world. doing a great work, so that I cannot love and meekness. We should be like We need them, and they need us. As come down: why should the work Edward Partridge, of whom the Lord President Thomas S. Monson has cease, whilst I leave it, and come said, “His heart is pure before me, for taught, “Let us learn respect for oth- down to you?” (Nehemiah 6:2–3). We he is like unto Nathanael of old, in ers. . . . None of us lives alone—in our too have a great work to do, which whom there is no guile” (D&C 41:11). city, our nation, or our world.”3 will not be accomplished if we allow To be guileless is to have a childlike As the Savior demonstrated with ourselves to stop and argue and be innocence, to be slow to take offense Herod, sometimes true disciples must distracted. Instead we should muster and quick to forgive. show Christian courage by saying Christian courage and move on. As These qualities are first learned in nothing at all. Once when I was golf- we read in Psalms, “Fret not thyself the home and family and can be prac- ing, I barely brushed up against a large because of evildoers” (Psalm 37:1). ticed in all our relationships. To be cholla cactus, which seems to shoot Evil will always be with us in this guileless is to look for our own fault needles like a porcupine. Thorns from world. Part of mortality’s great test is first. When accused, we should ask as that plant stuck all over my clothing, to be in the world without becoming the Savior’s Apostles did, “Lord, is it even though I had barely touched the like the world. In His Intercessory I?” (Matthew 26:22). If we listen to the cactus plant. Some situations are like Prayer, the Savior asked His Heavenly answer given by the Spirit, we can, if that plant: they can only injure us. In Father, “I pray not that thou shouldest needed, make corrections, apologize, such instances, we are better off to take them out of the world, but that seek forgiveness, and do better. keep our distance and simply walk thou shouldest keep them from the Without guile, true disciples avoid away. As we do, some may try to pro- evil” (John 17:15). But even as the being unduly judgmental of others’ voke us and engage us in argument. In Savior warned of persecution, He views. Many of us have cultivated the Book of Mormon, we read about promised peace: “Peace I leave with

74 you, my peace I give unto you. . . . Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). I testify that God Loves with the mantle of His peace upon us, the First Presidency’s promise will be fulfilled: “The opposition which may seem hard to bear will be a blessing to and Helps All the kingdom of God upon the earth.”4 To my inquiring sister and all who seek to know how we should respond to our accusers, I reply, we love them. of His Children Whatever their race, creed, religion, BISHOP KEITH B. MC MULLIN or political persuasion, if we follow Second Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric Christ and show forth His courage, we must love them. We do not feel we are better than they are. Rather, We need Heavenly Father’s help. Important sources we desire with our love to show them of this help come through man’s service to his fellowman, a better way—the way of Jesus Christ. through prayer, and through focus on Christ. His way leads to the gate of baptism, the strait and narrow path of righ- teous living, and the temple of God. He is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Only through Him can him; male and female created I them.”3 we and all our brothers and sisters This truth elevates the human fam- inherit the greatest gift we can ily. Men and women are wondrous cre- receive—eternal life and eternal hap- ations endowed with divine attributes. piness. To help them, to be an exam- At the time of Creation, God placed in ple for them, is not for the weak. It is Adam and Eve the supernal capacity to for the strong. It is for you and me, bear children in their likeness. We are Latter-day Saints who pay the price of all, therefore, in His image. discipleship by answering our accus- We do, however, contend with ers with Christian courage. serious mortal frailties and hazards. I conclude by making the testi- Sickness, aging, and death are mony of Mormon my own: “Behold, I inescapable. Hardships and heart- am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son aches are part of life’s journey. of God. I have been called of him to Personal dispositions, appetites, and declare his word among his people, passions clamor for gratification. that they might have everlasting life” For all these reasons and more, we (3 Nephi 5:13). I bear my special wit- need Heavenly Father’s help. An ness of Him—that our lives can be ne of the overarching truths important source of this help comes everlasting because His love is ever- of the Restoration is that God through man’s service to his fellow- lasting. That we may share His eter- lives and dwells in His heav- man.4 The commandment is to “love O 5 nal, unconditional love with our ens, that He is an exalted man with thy neighbour as thyself.” Because brothers and sisters everywhere, is “a body of flesh and bones,”1 and that we are all brothers and sisters, we are my humble prayer in the name of He is yesterday, today, and forever the all “neighbors,” though separated at Jesus Christ, amen. ■ same unchangeable God,2 the foun- times by distance, culture, religion, or tain of all virtue and truth. race. Said the Prophet Joseph, “A man NOTES 1. First Presidency letter, Dec. 1, 1983. Adam and Eve were the first of His filled with the love of God, is not con- 2. Webster’s Third New International mortal children upon this earth. Of tent with blessing his family alone, Dictionary (1976), “meek,” 1403. their advent, He said: “And I, God, cre- but ranges through the whole world, 3. Thomas S. Monson, “In Quest of the Abundant Life,” Ensign, Mar. 1988, 3. ated man in mine own image, in the anxious to bless the whole human 4. First Presidency letter, Dec. 1, 1983. image of mine Only Begotten created I race.”6 The Lord sets the example,

NOVEMBER 2008 75 “for he doeth that which is good he said, “If we all loved each other has said: “Welfare principles . . . do among the children of men; . . . and like this, the world would be a more not change. They will not change. he denieth none that come unto him, peaceful place.” They are revealed truths.”12 black and white, bond and free, male Fasting and giving the value of the Another essential way to receive and female; and he remembereth the meals not eaten to help the poor cap- God’s help is through prayer. We are heathen; and all are alike unto God.”7 tured his attention. At the conclusion commanded to pray to God, our To provide for others in the Lord’s of his visit to Welfare Square, he Father, in the name of Jesus Christ. way, we strive to care for ourselves handed the manager a small red enve- The admonition is, “Ask, and it shall and sacrifice to help those in need. lope—a “red pocket.” In China a “red be given you; seek, and ye shall find; The poor labor for what they receive pocket” is given as a gesture of love, knock, and it shall be opened.”13 and seek the betterment of others as blessing, and a wish for good fortune. Heavenly Father answers all sincere well.8 This pattern has been with us “It does not contain much,” the visitor prayers. from the beginning.9 said, “but it represents the money I As the Lord’s prophet, President The Church welfare plan embodies have saved from missing breakfast the Monson counsels: “At times there this divine pattern, and faithful last two mornings. I would like to give appears to be no light at the tunnel’s Church members follow it. Their my fast offering to the Welfare pro- end—no dawn to break the night’s offerings provide succor to the gram of the Church.”10 darkness. . . . We feel abandoned, widow, care to the orphan, and refuge The Church welfare plan is God- heartbroken, alone. If you find your- to the suffering. inspired. Its tenets are fundamental to self in such a situation, I plead with A few years ago a high-ranking offi- the salvation of man.11 It is an ensign you to turn to our Heavenly Father cial from China visited Salt Lake City, for service, a witness to the world that in faith. He will lift you and guide toured Church sites, and spoke at the Church of Jesus Christ has been you. He will not always take your Brigham Young University. Learning restored. It is heaven’s help in practi- afflictions from you, but He will com- about the Church welfare program, cal ways. President Thomas S. Monson fort and lead you with love through

76 whatever storm you face.”14 In the face of some needs, we turn to a form of prayer available only under the hands of those authorized to minis- ter for God. Jesus Christ went forth “healing the sick, raising the dead”15 and lifting up desperate souls. With the Restoration of the gospel came priest- hood power and authority to continue this aspect of God’s work.16 When one is sick or deeply trou- bled, “call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up.”17 Faithful elders are commis- sioned to do what the Lord would do if He were present.18 If records had been kept of prayers answered, the world could not con- tain the many volumes. From Elder Glen L. Rudd, an emeritus General Authority and beloved associate, comes this treasured testimonial: “I received a phone call informing me that a family member, a 12-year- old girl named Janice, was in the hos- pital with critical injuries. Her mother Elder Rudd goes on to say: “Janice “for God so loved the world, that he wanted her to receive a priesthood didn’t move a muscle for more than gave his only begotten Son, that blessing. a month. We never lost faith. A bless- whosoever believeth in him should “Elder Cowley and I went to the ing had been pronounced that she not perish, but have everlasting life.”20 hospital. There we learned details of would get well and have no lasting It is with great reverence and awe the accident. Janice had been hit by a impairments.” that I bear witness of the Lord Jesus city bus. The double rear wheels had Elder Rudd concluded: “Many Christ. In doing so, I am reminded passed over her head and body. years have now passed since that hos- how careful we must be in the use of “Elder Cowley and I entered the pital visit. I spoke with Janice recently. His name. While His influence, teach- room where Janice lay. She had a bro- She is now 70 years of age, the ings, and deliverance endear Him to ken pelvis, a badly injured shoulder, mother of 3 children, the grand- us, we would do well not to speak of multiple broken bones, and severe mother of 11 grandchildren. To this Him as though He were the friend head injuries that were beyond repair. day, she has not suffered a single neg- next door. Nonetheless, it was our feeling that ative effect from her accident.”19 He is the Firstborn of our Father’s we should administer to her and bless Hers is but one of many such heal- spirit children. He did all that was her. I anointed her with oil, and Elder ings. But none stands as a greater wit- ordained for Him to do—hence all Cowley sealed the anointing. In a ness of how Heavenly Father helps things give Him reverence and bear strong and resolute manner he His children through prayer than the witness of Him.21 He told the ancient blessed her to become well and one that took place in a hospital prophets what to write and reveals whole and to live a normal life. He room, with 12-year-old Janice and two His will to His prophets today—and blessed her that she would recover humble servants of God, some 58 He fulfills their every word.22 with no lasting effects from her many years ago. Begotten of God, He was born of injuries. It was a great blessing and a The ultimate help from Heavenly the virgin Mary, conquered death, truly magnificent moment.” Father comes to us through His Son, atoned for the sins of the world, and

NOVEMBER 2008 77 brought salvation to both the living and dead. As our resurrected Lord, He ate fish and honeycomb with the A Return to Virtue Apostles and invited multitudes on both hemispheres to feel the wounds ELAINE S. DALTON in His hands, feet, and side that all Young Women General President might know He is the God of Israel— He is the living Christ. To all He declares: Now is the time for each of us to arise and unfurl a banner “I am the resurrection, and the life: to the world calling for a return to virtue. he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: “And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.”23 saw the temple with the angel Moroni He is our Lawgiver and Judge, the shining in the sun. For each of us, it Redeemer of the world. At His Second was clear. The vision for our presi- Coming, “the government shall be dency was the temple. And our upon his shoulder; and his name shall responsibility was also clear. We must be called, Wonderful, Counselor, The “help prepare each young woman to Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, be worthy to make and keep sacred The Prince of Peace.”24 Of this I bear covenants and receive the ordinances witness in the most sacred name of of the temple.”2 Jesus Christ, amen. ■ The temple is the reason for every- 3 NOTES thing we do in the Church. The tem- 1. D&C 130:22. ple was the reason our pioneer 2. See D&C 20:17. 3. Moses 2:27; see also Genesis 1:27. ancestors left their established homes 4. See Mosiah 2:17. and came west. It was the reason they 5. Matthew 22:39. suffered privation and even death. 6. History of the Church, 4:227. 7. 2 Nephi 26:33. Temple covenants were the reason 8. See D&C 56:16–18; 78:13–14; 104:13–18. that, although babies were buried 9. See Genesis 3:19; Exodus 23:10–11; ast general conference, I was along the way, those pioneers could Leviticus 19:9–10; Matthew 25:40; Mosiah 4:16–27; Moses 4:25; 5:1. called by President Monson sing: 10. In Neil K. Newell, “The Red Pocket” to be the new Young Women (unpublished manuscript, 1999), 1. L general president. As I stood in the Come, come, ye Saints, 11. See Mosiah 4:16–27. 12. Thomas S. Monson, “Guiding Principles of presence of a prophet of God and was No toil nor labor fear; Personal and Family Welfare,” Tambuli, given this sacred trust, I pledged that But with joy wend your way.4 Feb. 1987, 2; Ensign, Sept. 1986, 3. 13. Matthew 7:7–8. I would serve with all my heart, might, 14. Thomas S. Monson, “Looking Back and mind, and strength. Prior to this call- Some lost everything but came Moving Forward,” Liahona and Ensign, ing, I had a small plate inscribed with into the valley with everything, May 2008, 90. 15. Mosiah 3:5. a motto that read, “I can do hard really—temple ordinances, sacred 16. See D&C 13; 27:12–13; 110:11–16; things.” That little plate bearing that covenants, and the promise of eternal 128:20–21. simple motto gave me courage. But life together as families. 17. James 5:14–15. 18. See John 14:11–14; Articles of Faith 1:7; now if I could change that motto, it Just two days after the Saints Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, 2nd would read: “In the strength of the arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, ed. (1966), 345. Lord, I can do all things.”1 It is on that Brigham Young and his associates 19. From a conversation with Glen L. Rudd; see also Glen L. Rudd, Treasured Experiences strength that I rely today as I stand at hiked Ensign Peak. Atop that peak of Glen L. Rudd (self-published manuscript, this sacred pulpit. they unfurled a banner—a yellow ban- 1995), Church Archives, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 270–72. Last April, two days after general dana tied to a walking stick, which 20. John 3:16. conference, we held our first meeting symbolized an ensign or standard to 21. See Moses 6:63. as a newly sustained presidency. We the nations.5 The Saints were to be 22. Amos 3:7; D&C 1:38. 23. John 11:25–26. hiked to the top of Ensign Peak, and the light, the standard. Last April, atop 24. 2 Nephi 19:6; see also Isaiah 9:6. as we looked on the valley below, we Ensign Peak, we three women also

78 unfurled a banner which we made from a walking stick and a gold Peruvian shawl. It was our ensign, our standard to the nations—our banner calling for a return to virtue. Virtue is a prerequisite to entering the Lord’s holy temples and to receiv- ing the Spirit’s guidance. Virtue “is a pattern of thought and behavior based on high moral standards.”6 It encom- passes chastity and moral purity. Virtue begins in the heart and in the mind. It is nurtured in the home. It is the accumulation of thousands of small decisions and actions. Virtue is a word we don’t hear often in today’s society, but the Latin root word virtus means strength. Virtuous women and men possess a quiet dignity and inner strength. They are confident because they are worthy to receive and be guided by the Holy Ghost. President Monson has counseled: “You be the one to make a stand for right, even if you stand alone. Have the moral courage to be a light for others to fol- low. There is no friendship more valu- able than your own clear conscience, your own moral cleanliness—and what a glorious feeling it is to know that you stand in your appointed place clean and with the confidence that you are worthy to do so.”7 Could it be that we have been degrees.” Could it be that this may be to be so involved in ourselves, our slowly desensitized into thinking that happening today? Could it be that first looks, our clothes, our body shape high moral standards are old-fashioned we tolerate, then accept, and eventu- and size that we lose sight of our and not relevant or important in ally embrace the vice that surrounds divine identity and our ability to today’s society? As Elder Hales has just us?10 Could it be that we have been change the world through our virtu- reminded us, Lehonti in the Book of deceived by false role models and per- ous influence? What could be more Mormon was well positioned on the suasive media messages that cause us deceptive than to entice men—young top of a mountain. He and those he to forget our divine identity? Are we and old, holding the holy priesthood led were “fixed in their minds with a too being poisoned by degrees? What of God—to view seductive pornogra- determined resolution” that they could be more deceptive than to phy and thus focus on flesh instead of would not come down from the entice the youth of this noble genera- faith, to be consumers of vice rather mount. It only took the deceitful tion to do nothing or to be busy ever- than guardians of virtue? The Book of Amalickiah four tries, each one texting but never coming to a Mormon relates the story of 2,000 more bold than the previous, to get knowledge of the truths contained in young heroes whose virtue and purity Lehonti to “come down off from the a book that was written for you and gave them the strength to defend mount.”8 And then having embraced your day by prophets of God—the their parents’ covenants and their fam- Amalickiah’s false promises, Lehonti Book of Mormon? What could be ily’s faith. Their virtue and commit- was “poison[ed] by degrees”9 until more deceptive than to entice ment to be “true at all times” changed he died. Not just poisoned, but “by women, young and old, you and me, the world!11

NOVEMBER 2008 79 emotion when he said, “Will the young women please arise?” From my seat, I saw all of you arise and stand together. Today there could be no more powerful force for virtue in the world. You must never underesti- mate the power of your righteous influence. I testify that a return to virtue is possible because of the Savior’s exam- ple and the “infinite virtue of His great atoning sacrifice.”22 I testify that we will be enabled and strengthened not only to do hard things but to do all things. Now is the time for each of us to arise and unfurl a banner to the I truly believe that one virtuous gift, and touch not the evil gift, nor world calling for a return to virtue. young woman or young man, led by the unclean thing.”21 May we so live that we can be instru- the Spirit, can change the world, but Recently I attended the blessing of ments in preparing the earth for His in order to do so, we must return to our newest granddaughter. It was a Second Coming, “that when he shall virtue. We must engage in strict train- holy sight to me as my husband and appear we shall be like him, . . . puri- ing. As the marathon runner Juma our sons, along with many other fied even as he is pure.”23 In the name Ikangaa said after winning the loved ones, encircled this little infant. of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ New York Marathon, “The will to win She was so elegant all dressed in is nothing without the will to pre- white—and it didn’t hurt a bit that NOTES 12 1. See Alma 20:4. pare.” Now is the time to prepare she was named after her two grand- 2. First Presidency letter, Sept. 25, 1996. by exercising more self-discipline. mothers! But the thing that touched 3. See Russell M. Nelson, “Personal Prepara- Now is the time to become “more me most was the blessing given by tion for Temple Blessings,” Liahona, July 13 2001, 37; Ensign, May 2001, 32. fit for the kingdom.” Now is the her father, our son Zach. He blessed 4. “Come, Come, Ye Saints,” Hymns, no. 30. time to set our course and focus on little Annabel Elaine that she would 5. See Gordon B. Hinckley, “An Ensign to the the finish. A return to virtue must understand her identity as a daughter Nations,” Ensign, Nov. 1989, 52; Boyd K. Packer, “A Defense and a Refuge,” Liahona begin individually in our hearts and of God, that she would follow the and Ensign, Nov. 2006, 85. in our homes. examples of her mother, grand- 6. Preach My Gospel (2004), 118. What can each of us do to begin mothers, and sister, and that she 7. Thomas S. Monson, “Examples of Righteousness,” Liahona and Ensign, May our return to virtue? The course and would find great joy as she lived a 2008, 65. the training program will be unique to virtuous life and prepared to make 8. See Alma 47:4–12. 9. Alma 47:18. each of us. I have derived my personal and keep sacred temple covenants. 10. See Alexander Pope, An Essay on Man, training program from instructions In that sacred moment, I prayed that epistle 2, lines 217–20. found in the scriptures: “Let virtue every young woman might be encir- 11. Alma 53:20; see also Alma 56. 14 12. Juma Ikangaa, quoted in Michael Sandrock, garnish thy thoughts unceasingly.” cled, strengthened, and protected by Running with the Legends: Training and “Cleave unto [your] covenants.”15 righteous priesthood power, not only Racing Insights from 21 Great Runners “Stand . . . in holy places.”16 “Lay aside at the time of birth and blessing but (1966), 415. 17 13. “More Holiness Give Me,” Hymns, no. 131. the things of [the] world.” “Believe throughout life. 14. D&C 121:45. that ye must repent.”18 “Always During the solemn assembly last 15. See D&C 25:13. remember him and keep his com- conference when President Uchtdorf 16. D&C 45:32. 17. D&C 25:10. 19 mandments.” And “if there is any- called for the sustaining of our new 18. Mosiah 4:10. thing virtuous, lovely, or of good prophet and First Presidency, I 19. D&C 20:77. 20. Articles of Faith 1:13; see also Romans 8:16; report or praiseworthy, . . . seek after watched the entire congregation of 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:22; 20 these things.” Now more than ever priesthood brethren arise and stand. Jacob 4:6; Alma 37:36; Moroni 10:32. before, it is time to respond to I felt your strength and your priest- 21. Moroni 10:30–31. 22. “The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Moroni’s call to “awake, and arise” hood power. You are the guardians Apostles,” Liahona and Ensign, Apr. 2000, 2. and to “lay hold upon every good of virtue. Then I was overcome with 23. Moroni 7:48; emphasis added.

80 of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1830. We have had 178 years to The Truth of God observe the fulfillment of prophecy and to watch “the truth of God” as it goes “forth boldly, nobly, and independent.” Shall Go Forth The Church began its first decade ELDER M. RUSSELL BALLARD with only a few members. Despite intense opposition, 597 missionaries Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles were called during the 1830s, and over 15,000 converts were baptized into the This is God’s work, and God’s work will not be frustrated. Church. The United States, Canada, But there is still much to be done. and Great Britain were opened to the preaching of the gospel. There were many converts during the 1840s while persecutions contin- ued to rage against the Church and Rocky Mountains, many would apos- especially against the Prophet Joseph. tatize, others would be put to death In the midst of these difficulties and by our persecutors or lose their lives despite the great challenges of travel, in consequence of exposure or dis- the restored gospel of Jesus Christ ease, and some [would] live to . . . continued to cover more of the earth build cities and see the Saints become through the faithful service of 1,454 a mighty people in the midst of the missionaries called during the 1840s, Rocky Mountains” (History of the and Church membership grew to Church, 5:85). more than 48,000. On June 27, 1844, Even Joseph’s closest associates in the persecution of Joseph Smith cul- those early years did not fully under- minated when he and his brother stand the trials that the Latter-day Hyrum were killed by a mob in the Saints would endure as the Church Carthage Jail. rolled forth from its small beginnings Soon after the Martyrdom and in the early 1800s. But Joseph Smith in fulfillment of Joseph’s vision, knew that no enemy then present or Brigham Young and the Church in the future would have sufficient began preparations to move to the y brothers and sisters, on power to frustrate or stop the pur- Rocky Mountains. Hardship, afflic- July 19th of this year the Sons poses of God. We are all familiar with tion, death, and apostasy were ever Mof Utah Pioneers placed at his prophetic words: “The Standard present. Still, the work moved for- This Is the Place Heritage Park in Salt of Truth has been erected; no unhal- ward. In the 1850s some 705 mission- Lake City a statue of the Prophet lowed hand can stop the work from aries were called to serve in areas Joseph Smith and his successor, progressing; persecutions may rage, including Scandinavia, France, Italy, President Brigham Young. This statue, mobs may combine, armies may Switzerland, and Hawaii. Missionary entitled Eyes Westward, shows these assemble, calumny may defame, but work also began in such diverse parts two great prophets with a map of the the truth of God will go forth boldly, of the world as India, Hong Kong, western territories. nobly, and independent, till it has pen- Thailand, Burma, South Africa, and Many people, including Latter-day etrated every continent, visited every the West Indies. Saints, forget that Joseph Smith was clime, swept every country, and Among faithful converts from very much aware that the Church sounded in every ear, till the purposes Scandinavia and Britain baptized dur- would eventually be relocated to the of God shall be accomplished, and the ing the decade of the 1850s were great American West. In August of Great Jehovah shall say the work is those who suffered and died, on land 1842 he prophesied “that the Saints done” (History of the Church, 4:540). and on the seas, as they journeyed to would continue to suffer much afflic- Nearly 18 decades have passed join with the Saints here in the Rocky tion and would be driven to the since the organization of The Church Mountains.

NOVEMBER 2008 81 In 1875 the first seven missionaries States Congress and had to fight to following July, he prophesied: “The were called to Mexico, and the work be seated. A great deal was said of work of the Lord will grow slowly for there flourished even amidst revolu- the Church and its teachings during a time here just as an oak grows tion and other challenges. And it was that time—much of it hurtful and slowly from an acorn. It will not shoot just four years ago, in 2004, that the directed towards President Joseph F. up in a day as does the sunflower that Church reached the milestone of one Smith and other Church leaders. grows quickly and then dies. But million members in Mexico. However, some newspaper articles thousands will join the Church here. The faith of the Saints was tested in began to speak of members of the It will be divided into more than one every footstep as Brigham Young led Church as contributing citizens and mission and will be one of the them to build temples and establish good people. strongest in the Church. The work more than 350 colonies in the West. On September 3, 1925, President here is the smallest that it will ever By the time Brigham Young died in Heber J. Grant announced that the be” (in Melvin R. Ballard, Melvin J. 1877, worldwide Church membership Church would begin missionary work Ballard: Crusader for Righteousness had grown to more than 115,000. in South America. Following the [1966], 84). Despite all of the persecution, the Lord’s pattern for taking the restored Anyone familiar with the growth of truth of God was indeed going forth gospel to all nations, a member of the the Church in South America knows boldly and nobly. Quorum of the Twelve Apostles—my the fulfillment of that prophecy. Time does not allow a detailed paternal grandfather, Elder Melvin J. Today, Brazil alone has over one mil- review of the growth of the Church Ballard—was sent, with others, to lion members. during the next few decades. But it South America to dedicate the land During the four decades from should be noted that during the 40- for the preaching of the gospel. 1930 to 1970, more than 106,000 year period from 1890 to 1930, while On Christmas morning of 1925 in missionaries were called to serve the Church and its doctrine were still Argentina, Elder Ballard dedicated the worldwide. Church membership under public attack, Elder Reed South American countries and started increased fourfold, to over 2,800,000. Smoot was elected to the United missionary work. Before leaving the More than one million new members

82 were added just during the 1960s. we have also experienced unprece- work of God that is frustrated, but the By 1970 missionaries were serving dented ideological attacks on our work of men” (D&C 3:1–3). in 43 nations and 9 territories. people, our history, and our doctrine God has spoken through His During this 40-year period, the through the media. prophet and announced to the South American nations of Chile, And yet the Church continues to world that “the Standard of Truth Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Ecuador, grow. Membership has more than has been erected” and that “no Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela doubled again—from 5.9 million in unhallowed hand can stop the work were opened to missionary work. 1985 to more than 13 million today. from progressing.” That is undeni- In Central America, servants of And last year the one millionth mis- ably and indisputably true. We have the Lord unlocked the nations of sionary to serve during this dispensa- seen it for ourselves, in decade Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala, tion was called. after decade, from the time of the El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Now, my brothers and sisters, Prophet Joseph Smith to the time In Asia, major new efforts began my purpose in this brief review of of President Thomas S. Monson. to bear fruit in Korea, Taiwan, Joseph’s prophetic vision of the des- Persecutions have raged. Calumny Singapore, and the Philippines. tiny of this Church and its literal ful- and lies and misrepresentation None of this was easy. Challenges, fillment through the decades is to have attempted to defame. But in obstacles, and persecution accompa- remind us of this simple truth: every decade from the time of the nied every attempt to take “the truth “The works, and the designs, and Restoration forward, the truth of of God” into every continent and the purposes of God cannot be frus- God has gone “forth boldly, nobly, country so that it could “sound . . . trated, neither can they come to and independent.” The little Church in every ear.” Still, we moved forward naught. that started in 1830 with just a hand- in faith; challenges were met, and “For God doth not walk in crooked ful of members has now grown to obstacles were overcome. paths, . . . neither doth he vary from more than 13 million Latter-day President Spencer W. Kimball that which he hath said, therefore his Saints in many different nations asked members of the Church to paths are straight, and his course is around the world, and we are well lengthen their stride in spreading the one eternal round. on our way to penetrating every gospel and sharing gospel truth. He “Remember . . . that it is not the continent, visiting every clime, asked every stake in the world to sweeping every country, and sound- increase the number of missionaries, ing in every ear. and he led the Church into using This is God’s work, and God’s media to help convey our message work will not be frustrated. But there to hundreds of millions of people is still much to be done before the throughout the earth. Great Jehovah can announce that the During his 12 years as President work is done. While we praise and of the Church, nearly 200,000 mis- honor those faithful Saints who have sionaries served full-time missions. brought us to this point of public Worldwide Church membership prominence, we cannot afford, my almost doubled, and the number brothers and sisters, to be comfort- of stakes nearly tripled. Missionary able or content. work was opened or reopened in We are all needed to finish the many countries, and the miracle of work that was begun by those pio- conversion was happening in many neering Saints over 175 years ago and lands despite every adversarial carried out through the subsequent attempt to thwart the Lord’s work decades by faithful Saints of every or discourage the Lord’s workers. generation. We need to believe as they A little more than two decades believed. We need to work as they have passed since the end of worked. We need to serve as they President Kimball’s mortal ministry. served. And we need to overcome as During that period of time we have they overcame. experienced unprecedented promi- Of course, our challenges are dif- nence in the worldwide community ferent today, but they are no less of faith. Probably not coincidentally, demanding. Instead of angry mobs,

NOVEMBER 2008 83 we face those who constantly try to defame. Instead of extreme exposure and hardship, we face alcohol and Finding Joy drug abuse, pornography, all kinds of filth, sleaze, greed, dishonesty, and spiritual apathy. Instead of families being uprooted and torn from their in the Journey homes, we see the institution of the PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON family, including the divine institution of marriage, under attack as groups and individuals seek to define away Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, the prominent and divine role of the and share our love with friends and family. family in society. This is not to suggest that our chal- lenges today are more severe than the challenges faced by those who have gone before us. They are just differ- such as the unexpected passing of a ent. The Lord isn’t asking us to load loved one, an unforeseen illness, the up a handcart; He’s asking us to for- loss of a possession we treasure. But tify our faith. He isn’t asking us to most of the changes take place subtly walk across a continent; He’s asking and slowly. us to walk across the street to visit This conference marks 45 years our neighbor. He isn’t asking us to since I was called to the Quorum of give all of our worldly possessions to the Twelve Apostles. As the junior build a temple; He’s asking us to give member of the Twelve then, I looked of our means and our time despite up to 14 exceptional men, who were the pressures of modern living to con- senior to me in the Twelve and the tinue to build temples and then to First Presidency. One by one, each of attend regularly the temples already these men has returned home. When built. He isn’t asking us to die a mar- President Hinckley passed away eight tyr’s death; He’s asking us to live a months ago, I realized that I had disciple’s life. become the senior Apostle. The This is a great time to live, broth- changes over a period of 45 years ers and sisters, and it is up to us to y dear brothers and sisters, that were incremental now seem carry on the rich tradition of devoted I am humbled as I stand monumental. commitment that has been the hall- Mbefore you this morning. I This coming week Sister Monson mark of previous generations of ask for your faith and prayers in my and I will celebrate our 60th wedding Latter-day Saints. This is not a time behalf as I speak about those things anniversary. As I look back to our for the spiritually faint of heart. We which have been on my mind and beginnings, I realize just how much cannot afford to be superficially which I have felt impressed to share our lives have changed since then. righteous. Our testimonies must run with you. Our beloved parents, who stood deep, with spiritual roots firmly I begin by mentioning one of the beside us as we commenced our jour- embedded in the rock of revelation. most inevitable aspects of our lives ney together, have passed on. Our And we must continue to move the here upon the earth, and that is three children, who filled our lives so work forward as a covenanted, con- change. At one time or another we’ve completely for many years, are grown secrated people, with faith in every all heard some form of the familiar and have families of their own. Most of footstep, “till the purposes of God adage: “Nothing is as constant as our grandchildren are grown, and we shall be accomplished, and the Great change.” now have four great-grandchildren. Jehovah shall say the work is done.” Throughout our lives, we must Day by day, minute by minute, sec- That it may be so for us is my hum- deal with change. Some changes are ond by second we went from where ble prayer in the name of Jesus welcome; some are not. There are we were to where we are now. The Christ, amen. ■ changes in our lives which are sudden, lives of all of us, of course, go through

84 similar alterations and changes. The difference between the changes in my life and the changes in yours is only in the details. Time never stands still; it must steadily march on, and with the marching come the changes. This is our one and only chance at mortal life—here and now. The longer we live, the greater is our realization that it is brief. Opportunities come, and then they are gone. I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distin- guish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that illusive and non- existent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey—now. I am what my wife, Frances, calls a “show-a-holic.” I thoroughly enjoy many musicals, and one of my favorites was written by the American composer Meredith Willson and is entitled The Music Man. Professor Harold Hill, one of the principal char- acters in the show, voices a caution that I share with you. Says he, “You pile up enough tomorrows, and you’ll find you’ve collected a lot of empty yesterdays.”1 My brothers and sisters, there is no tomorrow to remember if we don’t do something today. I’ve shared with you previously an example of this philosophy. I believe it bears repeating. Many years ago, Arthur Gordon wrote in a national magazine, and I quote: “When I was around thirteen and my brother ten, Father had prom- ised to take us to the circus. But at coming back, you know,’ [she said.] back, but only forward. Rather than lunchtime there was a phone call; “‘I know,’ said Father. ‘But child- dwelling on the past, we should make some urgent business required his hood doesn’t.’”2 the most of today, of the here and attention downtown. We braced our- If you have children who are grown now, doing all we can to provide pleas- selves for disappointment. Then we and gone, in all likelihood you have ant memories for the future. heard him say [into the phone], ‘No, occasionally felt pangs of loss and the If you are still in the process of rais- I won’t be down. It’ll have to wait.’ recognition that you didn’t appreciate ing children, be aware that the tiny “When he came back to the table, that time of life as much as you should fingerprints that show up on almost Mother smiled. ‘The circus keeps have. Of course, there is no going every newly cleaned surface, the toys

NOVEMBER 2008 85 college. Press on, set goals, write his- tory, take pictures twice a year.”5 Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family. One day each of us will run out of tomorrows. In the book of John in the New Testament, chapter 13, verse 34, the Savior admonishes us, “As I have loved you, . . . love one another.” Some of you may be familiar with Thornton Wilder’s classic drama Our Town. If you are, you will remember the town of Grover’s Corners, where the story takes place. In the play Emily Webb dies in childbirth, and we read of the lonely grief of her young husband, George, left with their four- year-old son. Emily does not wish to rest in peace; she wants to experience again the joys of her life. She is Three fathers in Ukraine find joy in fatherhood. granted the privilege of returning to earth and reliving her 12th birthday. scattered about the house, the piles a person to be loved. Friends move At first it is exciting to be young again, and piles of laundry to be tackled will away, children grow up, loved ones but the excitement wears off quickly. disappear all too soon and that you pass on. It’s so easy to take others for The day holds no joy now that Emily will—to your surprise—miss them granted, until that day when they’re knows what is in store for the future. profoundly. gone from our lives and we are left It is unbearably painful to realize how Stresses in our lives come regard- with feelings of “what if” and “if only.” unaware she had been of the meaning less of our circumstances. We must Said author Harriet Beecher Stowe, and wonder of life while she was alive. deal with them the best we can. But “The bitterest tears shed over graves Before returning to her resting place, we should not let them get in the way are for words left unsaid and deeds Emily laments, “Do . . . human beings of what is most important—and what left undone.”4 ever realize life while they live it— is most important almost always In the 1960s, during the Vietnam every, every minute?” involves the people around us. Often War, Church member Jay Hess, an Our realization of what is most we assume that they must know how airman, was shot down over North important in life goes hand in hand much we love them. But we should Vietnam. For two years his family with gratitude for our blessings. never assume; we should let them had no idea whether he was dead or Said one well-known author: “Both know. Wrote William Shakespeare, alive. His captors in Hanoi eventually abundance and lack [of abundance] “They do not love that do not show allowed him to write home but lim- exist simultaneously in our lives, as their love.”3 We will never regret the ited his message to less than 25 parallel realities. It is always our con- kind words spoken or the affection words. What would you and I say to scious choice which secret garden we shown. Rather, our regrets will come our families if we were in the same will tend . . . when we choose not to if such things are omitted from our situation—not having seen them for focus on what is missing from our relationships with those who mean over two years and not knowing if we lives but are grateful for the abun- the most to us. would ever see them again? Wanting dance that’s present—love, health, Send that note to the friend you’ve to provide something his family could family, friends, work, the joys of been neglecting; give your child a recognize as having come from him nature, and personal pursuits that hug; give your parents a hug; say “I and also wanting to give them valu- bring us [happiness]—the wasteland love you” more; always express your able counsel, Brother Hess wrote— of illusion falls away and we experi- thanks. Never let a problem to be and I quote: “These things are ence heaven on earth.”6 solved become more important than important: temple marriage, mission, In the Doctrine and Covenants,

86 section 88, verse 33, we are told: “For reflected in the bubbles of her dish- as they went, they were cleansed. what doth it profit a man if a gift is water, or observing the phases of the “And one of them, when he saw bestowed upon him, and he receive moon each night. She closed one of that he was healed, turned back, and not the gift? Behold, he rejoices not her books with these words: “Dear with a loud voice glorified God, in that which is given unto him, nei- . . . Father in heaven, I thank Thee. “And fell down on his face at his ther rejoices in him who is the giver I thank Thee.”8 feet, giving him thanks: and he was a of the gift.” Borghild Dahl, both before and Samaritan. The ancient Roman philosopher after her sight was restored, was filled “And Jesus answering said, Were Horace admonished, “Whatever hour with gratitude for her blessings. there not ten cleansed? but where are God has blessed you with, take it with In 1982, two years before she died, the nine? grateful hand, nor postpone your joys at the age of 92 her last book was “There are not found that returned from year to year, so that in whatever published. Its title: Happy All My Life. to give glory to God, save this place you have been, you may say that Her attitude of thankfulness enabled stranger.”9 you have lived happily.” her to appreciate her blessings and to Said the Lord in a revelation given Many years ago I was touched live a full and rich life despite her through the Prophet Joseph Smith, by the story of Borghild Dahl. She challenges. “In nothing doth man offend God, or was born in Minnesota in 1890 of In 1 Thessalonians in the New against none is his wrath kindled, save Norwegian parents and from her early Testament, chapter 5, verse 18, we are those who confess not his hand in all years suffered severely impaired vision. told by the Apostle Paul, “In every things.”10 May we be found among She had a tremendous desire to partic- thing give thanks: for this is the will those who give our thanks to our ipate in everyday life despite her of God.” Heavenly Father. If ingratitude be handicap and, through sheer determi- Recall with me the account of the numbered among the serious sins, nation, succeeded in nearly everything 10 lepers: then gratitude takes its place among she undertook. Against the advice of “And as [Jesus] entered into a cer- the noblest of virtues. educators, who felt her handicap was tain village, there met him ten men Despite the changes which come too great, she attended college, receiv- that were lepers, which stood afar off: into our lives and with gratitude in ing her bachelor of arts degree from “And they lifted up their voices, and our hearts, may we fill our days—as the University of Minnesota. She later said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. much as we can—with those things studied at Columbia University and the “And when he saw them, he said which matter most. May we cherish University of Oslo. She eventually unto them, Go shew yourselves unto those we hold dear and express our became the principal of eight schools the priests. And it came to pass, that, love to them in word and in deed. in western Minnesota and North In closing, I pray that all of us will Dakota. reflect gratitude for our Lord and She wrote the following in one of Savior, Jesus Christ. His glorious the 17 books she authored: “I had gospel provides answers to life’s only one eye, and it was so covered greatest questions: Where did we with dense scars that I had to do all come from? Why are we here? Where my seeing through one small opening does my spirit go when I die? in the left of the eye. I could see a He taught us how to pray. He book only by holding it up close to taught us how to serve. He taught my face and by straining my one eye us how to live. His life is a legacy as hard as I could to the left.”7 of love. The sick He healed; the Miraculously, in 1943—when she downtrodden He lifted; the sinner was over 50 years old—a revolution- He saved. ary procedure was developed which The time came when He stood finally restored to her much of the alone. Some Apostles doubted; one sight she had been without for so betrayed Him. The Roman soldiers long. A new and exciting world pierced His side. The angry mob opened up before her. She took great took His life. There yet rings from pleasure in the small things most of Golgotha’s hill His compassionate us take for granted, such as watching words, “Father, forgive them; for they a bird in flight, noticing the light know not what they do.”11

NOVEMBER 2008 87 SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION October 5, 2008

Earlier, perhaps perceiving the cul- mination of His earthly mission, He spoke the lament, “Foxes have holes, The Test and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to PRESIDENT BOYD K. PACKER lay his head.”12 “No room in the inn”13 President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles was not a singular expression of rejec- tion—just the first. Yet He invites you and me to receive Him. “Behold, I Neither mobbings nor the army could turn the Saints aside stand at the door, and knock: if any from what they knew to be true. man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”14 Who was this Man of sorrows, Joseph called out: acquainted with grief? Who is the “O God, where art thou? And King of glory, this Lord of hosts? He is where is the pavilion that covereth our Master. He is our Savior. He is the thy hiding place? Son of God. He is the Author of our “How long shall thy hand be Salvation. He beckons, “Follow me.”15 stayed, and thine eye, yea thy pure He instructs, “Go, and do thou like- eye, behold from the eternal heavens wise.”16 He pleads, “Keep my com- the wrongs of thy people and of thy mandments.”17 servants, and thine ear be penetrated Let us follow Him. Let us emulate with their cries?”3 His example. Let us obey His word. By The Prophet Joseph Smith had so doing, we give to Him the divine earlier sought direction, and the Lord gift of gratitude. told the Saints to seek redress from Brothers and sisters, my sincere the judges, the governor, and then prayer is that we may adapt to the the president.4 changes in our lives, that we may real- Their appeals to the judges failed. ize what is most important, that we During his life, Joseph Smith was may express our gratitude always and t is my purpose to show that in summoned to court over 200 times thus find joy in the journey. In the troubled times the Lord has always on all kinds of trumped-up charges. name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ Iprepared a safe way ahead. We live He was never convicted. NOTES in those “perilous times” which the When they sought redress from 1. Meredith Willson and Franklin Lacey, The Apostle Paul prophesied would come Governor Boggs of Missouri, he Music Man (1957). in the last days.1 If we are to be safe issued a proclamation: “The Mormons 2. Arthur Gordon, A Touch of Wonder (1974), 77–78. individually, as families, and secure as must be treated as enemies and must 3. William Shakespeare, Two Gentlemen of a church, it will be through “obedi- be exterminated or driven from the Verona, act 1, scene 2, line 31. ence to the laws and ordinances of state, if necessary for the public 4. Harriet Beecher Stowe, in Gorton Carruth 2 5 and Eugene Erlich, comps., The Harper the Gospel.” good.” That unleashed untold brutal- Book of American Quotations (1988), 173. On July 24, 1849, the Saints had ity and wickedness. 5. Personal correspondence. been in the valley two years to the They appealed to President Martin 6. Sarah Ban Breathnach, in John Cook, comp., The Book of Positive Quotations, day. They finally were free from years Van Buren of the United States, who 2nd ed. (2007), 342. of mobbing and persecution. That told them, “Your cause is just, but I 7. Borghild Dahl, I Wanted to See (1944), 1. 6 8. I Wanted to See, 210. called for a great celebration. can do nothing for you.” 9. Luke 17:12–18. Just a few years earlier under I will read the final paragraphs of 10. D&C 59:21. dreadful conditions, the Prophet their third petition addressed to the 11. Luke 23:34. 12. Matthew 8:20. Joseph Smith suffered in Liberty Jail Congress of the United States: 13. See Luke 2:7. for months while the mobs drove the “The afflictions of your memorialists 14. Revelation 3:20. Saints from their homes. The words have already been overwhelming, too 15. Mark 2:14. 16. Luke 10:37. liberty and jail do not fit together much for humanity, too much for 17. D&C 11:6. very well. American citizens to endure without

88 complaint. We have groaned under the iron hand of tyranny and oppres- sion these many years. We have been robbed of our property to the amount of two millions of dollars. We have been hunted as the wild beasts of the forest. We have seen our aged fathers who fought in the Revolution, and our innocent children, alike slaugh- tered by our persecutors. We have seen the fair daughters of American citizens insulted and abused in the most inhuman manner, and finally, we have seen fifteen thousand souls, men, women, and children, driven by force of arms, during the severities of winter, from their sacred homes and firesides, to a land of strangers, penniless and unprotected. Under all these afflicting circumstances, we imploringly stretch forth our hands towards the highest councils of our nation, and humbly appeal to the illustrious Senators and Representatives of a great and free people for redress and protection. “Hear! O hear the petitioning voice of many thousands of American citi- zens who now groan in exile . . . ! Hear! O hear the weeping and bitter lamentations of widows and orphans, whose husbands and fathers have been cruelly martyred in the land where the proud eagle . . . floats! Let it not be recorded in the archives of the nations, that . . . exiles sought pro- tection and redress at your hands, but sought it in vain. It is in your power to Now on this 24th of July in 1849, length and unfurled it at the top of save us, our wives, and our children, free at last from the mobbings, they this liberty pole. from a repetition of the bloodthirsty planned to celebrate.8 It may seem puzzling, incredible scenes of Missouri, and thus greatly Everything the Saints owned would almost beyond belief, that for the relieve the fears of a persecuted and come across a thousand miles (1,600 theme of this first celebration they injured people, and your petitioners km) of desert by handcart or covered chose patriotism and loyalty to that will ever pray.”7 wagon. It would be 20 more years same government which had rejected There was no pity, and they were before the railroad came as far as Salt and failed to assist them. What could turned away. Lake City. With almost nothing to they have been thinking of? If you can In 1844, while under the avowed work with, they determined that the understand why, you will understand protection of Governor Thomas Ford celebration would be a grand expres- the power of the teachings of Christ. of Illinois, the Prophet Joseph Smith sion of their feelings. Their brass band played as President and his brother Hyrum were shot to They built a bowery on Temple Brigham Young led a grand procession death in Carthage Jail. Words cannot Square. They erected a flagpole 104 to Temple Square. He was followed by express the brutality and suffering the feet (32 m) tall. They made an enor- the Twelve Apostles and the Seventy. Saints had endured. mous national flag 65 feet (20 m) in Then followed 24 young men

NOVEMBER 2008 89 dressed in white pants; black coats; suffered, you will have unlocked the white scarves on their right shoul- key to what a Latter-day Saint is. ders; coronets, or crowns, on their Rather than being consumed with heads; and a sheathed sword at their revenge, they were anchored to reve- left sides. In their right hand, of all lation. Their course was set by the things, each carried a copy of the teachings still found today in the Old Declaration of Independence and and the New Testaments, the Book of the Constitution of the United States. Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, The Declaration of Independence was and the Pearl of Great Price. read by one of those young men. If you can understand why they Next came 24 young women would celebrate as they did, you can dressed in white, blue scarves on understand why we have faith in the their right shoulders and white roses Lord Jesus Christ, in the principles of on their heads. Each carried a Bible the gospel. and a Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon teaches, “We Almost but not quite as amazing as talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, their choice of patriotism for a theme we preach of Christ, we prophesy of was what came next: 24 aged sires (as Christ, and we write according to our they were called) led by patriarch Isaac children and to love and honor free- prophecies, that our children may Morley. They were known as the Silver dom. After he briefly recited the perils know to what source they may look Greys—all 60 years of age or older. that they had come through, he said: for a remission of their sins.”16 Each carried a staff painted red with “Brethren and friends, we who And so today in these strangely white ribbon floating at the top. One have lived to three-score years, have perilous times, in the true Church of carried the Stars and Stripes. These beheld the government of the United Jesus Christ17 we teach and live the men were a symbol of the priesthood, States in its glory, and know that the principles of His gospel. which was “from the beginning before outrageous cruelties we have suffered Three things about that 1849 com- the world was”9 and had been restored proceeded from a corrupted and memoration were both symbolic and in this dispensation. degenerate administration, while prophetic: first, that the young men The Saints knew that the Lord the pure principles of our boasted carried the Constitution and the had told them to be “subject to kings, Constitution remain unchanged. . . . Declaration of Independence; next, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in “. . . As we have inherited the spirit that each young woman carried the obeying, honoring, and sustaining the of liberty and the fire of patriotism Bible and the Book of Mormon; and law.”10 That commandment, revealed from our fathers, so let them descend finally, that the old men—the Silver then, is true now of our members [unchanged] to our posterity.”14 Greys—were honored in the parade. in every nation. We are to be law- One would think that, compelled After the program they had a feast abiding, worthy citizens. by force of human nature, the Saints at makeshift tables. Several hundred The Lord told them, “I established would seek revenge, but something gold-rush travelers and 60 Indians the Constitution of this land, by the much stronger than human nature were invited to join them. hands of wise men whom I raised up prevailed. Then they went back to work. unto this very purpose.”11 The Apostle Paul explained: President Young had said, “If the And in another verse, the Lord “The natural man receiveth not the people of the United States will let us told them that “it is not right that any things of the Spirit of God: for they alone for ten years we will ask no man should be in bondage one to are foolishness unto him: neither can odds of them.”18 another.”12 They were therefore anti- he know them, because they are spiri- Eight years to the day after the slavery. This was a very sore spot with tually discerned. . . . 1849 celebration, the Saints were in the settlers in Missouri. “. . . We have the mind of Christ.”15 Big Cottonwood Canyon to celebrate And so on that day of celebration in That Spirit defined those early another 24th of July. Four horsemen 1849, “Elder Phineas Richards came for- members of the Church as followers rode in to report that an army 2,500 ward in behalf of the twenty-four aged of Christ. soldiers strong was on the plains. The sires, and read their loyal and patriotic If you can understand a people so army of the United States, com- address.”13 He spoke of the need for long-suffering, so tolerant, so forgiv- manded by Colonel Albert Sydney them to teach patriotism to their ing, so Christian after what they had Johnston, was ordered by President

90 James Buchanan to crush a nonexist- ent Mormon rebellion. The Saints broke camp and headed for home to prepare their defenses. Rather than flee, this time President Young declared, “We have transgressed no law, and we have no occasion to do so, neither do we intend to; but as for any nation’s coming to destroy this people, God Almighty being my helper, they cannot come here.”19 My great-grandparents buried a child on the trail from Far West, when they were driven to Nauvoo, and another at Winter Quarters, when they were driven west. Another great-grandmother, a teenager, was pushing a handcart along the south banks of the Platte River. They sang:

We’ll find the place which God for us prepared, Far away in the West, Where none shall come to hurt or make afraid; There the Saints will be blessed.20 The senior leaders of the Church stop the work from progressing.”22 Across the river they could see the will virtually always be seasoned by Today the sun never sets on congrega- sun glinting on the weapons of the decades of preparation. tions of the Latter-day Saints. In the soldiers of the army.21 President Monson is ideally suited name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ In St. Louis my great-grandmother for the challenges of our day. He is NOTES bought a little enameled pin of the sustained by two counselors and the 1. See 2 Timothy 3:1–7. 2. Articles of Faith 1:3. American flag. She wore it on her Quorum of the Twelve Apostles—all 3. D&C 121:1–2. dress for the rest of her life. prophets, seers, and revelators. 4. See D&C 101:86–88. Neither mobbings nor the army That same Lucifer who was cast 5. History of the Church, 3:175. 6. Martin Van Buren, quoted in Eliza R. Snow could turn the Saints aside from what out of our Father’s presence is still at Smith, Biography and Family Record of they knew to be true. A settlement was work. He, with the angels who fol- Lorenzo Snow (1884), 77. negotiated, and the Utah War (later lowed him, will trouble the work of 7. Quoted in Biography, 152–53. 8. See Biography, 95–107. called Buchanan’s Blunder) was over. the Lord and destroy it if he can. 9. D&C 76:13. We are guided by the same revela- But we will stay on course. We will 10. Articles of Faith 1:12. tions and led by a prophet. When anchor ourselves as families and as a 11. D&C 101:80. 12. D&C 101:79. the Prophet Joseph Smith died, church to these principles and ordi- 13. Biography, 100. another took his place. The order nances. Whatever tests lie ahead, and 14. Phineas Richards, in Biography, 102–4. 15. 1 Corinthians 2:14, 16. of succession continues today. they will be many, we must remain 16. 2 Nephi 25:26. Six months ago at general confer- faithful and true. 17. See D&C 1:30. ence, Thomas S. Monson was sus- I bear witness of God the Father 18. Brigham Young, “Remarks,” Deseret News, Sept. 23, 1857, 228. tained as the 16th President of the and His Son, Jesus Christ, that They 19. Deseret News, Sept. 23, 1857, 228. Church, just five months before his live, that Thomas S. Monson is called 20. “Come, Come, Ye Saints,” Hymns, no. 30. 81st birthday. He succeeded President of God by prophecy. 21. See “By Handcart to Utah: The Account of C. C. A. Christensen,” Nebraska History, Gordon B. Hinckley, who died in his “The standard of truth has been winter 1985, 342. 98th year. erected; no unhallowed hand can 22. History of the Church, 4:540.

NOVEMBER 2008 91 is also called a celestial marriage. Within the celestial glory are three Celestial Marriage levels. To obtain the highest, a hus- band and wife must be sealed for ELDER RUSSELL M. NELSON time and all eternity and keep their Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles covenants made in a holy temple.7 The noblest yearning of the human heart is for a marriage that can endure [The] proclamation on the family helps us realize that beyond death. Fidelity to a temple celestial marriage brings greater possibilities for happiness marriage does that. It allows families than does any other relationship. to be together forever. This goal is glorious. All Church activities, advancements, quorums, and classes are means to the end of They focus primarily on the quality an exalted family.8 and durability of a desired product. To make this goal possible, our They want the very best. In contrast, Heavenly Father has restored priest- some shoppers look for bargains, and hood keys in this dispensation so that others may splurge, only to learn essential ordinances in His plan can later—much to their dismay—that be performed by proper authority. their choice did not endure well. And Heavenly messengers—including sadly, there are those rare individuals John the Baptist;9 Peter, James, and who cast aside their personal integrity John;10 Moses, Elias, and Elijah11— and steal what they want. We call have participated in that restoration.12 them shoplifters. Knowledge of this revealed truth is The patterns of the shopper may be spreading across the earth.13 We, as the applied to the topic of marriage. A cou- Lord’s prophets and apostles, again ple in love can choose a marriage of proclaim to the world that “the family the highest quality or a lesser type that is central to the Creator’s plan for the will not endure. Or they can choose eternal destiny of His children.”14 neither and brazenly steal what they We further proclaim that “all y beloved brethren and sis- want as “marital shoplifters.” human beings—male and female— ters, I am deeply grateful for The subject of marriage is debated are created in the image of God. Each Meach of you. Together we across the world, where various is a beloved spirit son or daughter feel a profound sense of gratitude arrangements exist for conjugal living. of heavenly parents, and, as such, for the gospel of Jesus Christ. In this My purpose in speaking out on this each has a divine nature and destiny. world abounding with misery, we are topic is to declare, as an Apostle of Gender is an essential characteristic truly thankful for God’s “great plan the Lord,3 that marriage between a of individual premortal, mortal, and of happiness.”1 His plan declares that man and a woman is sacred—it is eternal identity and purpose. men and women are “that they might ordained of God.4 I also assert the “In the premortal realm, spirit sons have joy.”2 That joy comes when we virtue of a temple marriage. It is the and daughters knew and worshipped choose to live in harmony with highest and most enduring type of God as their Eternal Father and God’s eternal plan. marriage that our Creator can offer accepted His plan by which His chil- The importance of choice may be to His children. dren could obtain a physical body and illustrated by a homespun concept While salvation is an individual gain earthly experience to progress that came to mind one day when I matter, exaltation is a family matter.5 toward perfection and ultimately real- was shopping in a large retail store. Only those who are married in the ize their divine destiny as heirs of I call it “patterns of the shopper.” temple and whose marriage is sealed eternal life. [Heavenly Father’s great] As shopping is part of our daily life, by the Holy Spirit of Promise will con- plan of happiness enables family rela- these patterns may be familiar. tinue as spouses after death6 and tionships to be perpetuated beyond Wise shoppers study their options receive the highest degree of celestial the grave. Sacred ordinances and thoroughly before they make a selection. glory, or exaltation. A temple marriage covenants available in holy temples

92 make it possible for individuals to objectives to be realized. Because of that person with a deceased spouse, return to the presence of God and for the Atonement, immortality—or resur- when, in fact, they did not choose families to be united eternally.”15 rection from the dead—became a the eternal option. Instead, they That proclamation on the family reality for all.21 And because of the opted for a marriage that was valid helps us realize that celestial marriage Atonement, eternal life—which is liv- only as long as they both should live. brings greater possibilities for happi- ing forever in God’s presence, the Heavenly Father had offered them a ness than does any other relation- “greatest of all the gifts of God”22— supernal gift, but they refused it. And ship.16 The earth was created and this became a possibility. To qualify for in rejecting the gift, they rejected the Church was restored so that families eternal life, we must make an eternal Giver of the gift.28 could be formed, sealed, and exalted and everlasting covenant with our One strong sentence of scripture eternally.17 Heavenly Father.23 This means that a clearly distinguishes between a Scriptures declare that “it is lawful temple marriage is not only between hopeful wish and eternal truth: “All that [a man] should have one wife, husband and wife; it embraces a part- covenants, contracts, . . . obligations, and they twain shall be one flesh, and nership with God.24 oaths, vows, . . . or expectations, that all this that the earth might answer The family proclamation also are not made and entered into and the end of its creation.”18 Another reminds us that “husband and wife sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, affirms that “the man [is not] without have a solemn responsibility to love of him who is anointed, both as well the woman, neither the woman with- and care for each other.”25 Children for time and for all eternity, . . . are out the man, in the Lord.”19 Thus, born of that union are “an heritage of of no efficacy, virtue, or force in and marriage is not only an exalting prin- the Lord.”26 When a family is sealed in after the resurrection from the dead; ciple of the gospel; it is a divine the temple, that family may become for all contracts that are not made commandment. as eternal as the kingdom of God unto this end have an end when men Our Heavenly Father declared, itself.27 are dead.”29 “This is my work and my glory—to Such a reward requires more than These truths are absolute. bring to pass the immortality and eter- a hopeful wish. On occasion, I read in Members of this Church invite all nal life of man.”20 The Atonement of a newspaper obituary of an expecta- people to learn them and to qualify His Beloved Son enabled both of these tion that a recent death has reunited for eternal life.30 We invite all to gain

NOVEMBER 2008 93 God’s plan of happiness allows us to choose for ourselves. As with the patterns of the shopper, we may choose celestial marriage or lesser alternatives.35 Some marital options are cheap, some are costly, and some are cunningly crafted by the adver- sary. Beware of his options; they always breed misery!36 The best choice is a celestial mar- riage. Thankfully, if a lesser choice has previously been made, a choice can now be made to upgrade it to the best choice. That requires a mighty change of heart37 and a permanent personal upgrade.38 Blessings so derived are worth all efforts made.39 The full realization of the blessings of a temple marriage is almost beyond our mortal comprehension. Such a marriage will continue to grow in the celestial realm. There we can become perfected.40 As Jesus ultimately received the fulness of the glory of the Father,41 so we may “come unto the Father . . . and in due time receive faith in God the Eternal Father and in imperfect people. Happiness can of his fulness.”42 His Son, Jesus Christ, to repent, to come to them only through their Celestial marriage is a pivotal part receive the Holy Ghost, to obtain earnest effort. Just as harmony comes of preparation for eternal life. It the blessings of the temple, to make from an orchestra only when its mem- requires one to be married to the and keep sacred covenants, and to bers make a concerted effort, so har- right person, in the right place, by endure to the end. mony in marriage also requires a the right authority, and to obey that Mercifully, God’s great plan of hap- concerted effort. That effort will suc- sacred covenant faithfully.43 Then one piness and its eternal blessings can be ceed if each partner will minimize may be assured of exaltation in the extended to those who did not have personal demands and maximize celestial kingdom of God. I so testify the opportunity to hear the gospel in actions of loving selflessness. in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

mortality. Temple ordinances can be President Thomas S. Monson has NOTES done vicariously for them.31 said: “To find real happiness, we must 1. Alma 42:8. It is also known as the “plan of But what of the many mature seek for it in a focus outside our- . . . God” (see 2 Nephi 9:13; Alma 34:9), the “plan of redemption” (see Jacob 6:8; Alma members of the Church who are not selves. No one has learned the mean- 12:26, 30, 32–33; 29:2; 42:13), the “plan of married? Through no failing of their ing of living until he has surrendered salvation” (see Alma 24:14; 42:5), and the own, they deal with the trials of life his ego to the service of his fellow “plan of mercy” (see Alma 42:15, 31). 2. 2 Nephi 2:25. alone. Be we all reminded that, in the man. Service to others is akin to 3. See D&C 107:35. Lord’s own way and time, no bless- duty—the fulfillment of which brings 4. See D&C 49:15–17. 34 5. See Russell M. Nelson, “Salvation and ings will be withheld from His faithful true joy.” Exaltation,” Liahona and Ensign, 32 Saints. The Lord will judge and Harmony in marriage comes only May 2008, 7–10. reward each individual according to when one esteems the welfare of his 6. See D&C 76:53; 132:7. 33 7. See D&C 131:1–3. heartfelt desire as well as deed. or her spouse among the highest of 8. One example of this objective is the scrip- Meanwhile, mortal misunderstand- priorities. When that really happens, tural declaration that “thy duty is unto the ings can make mischief in a marriage. a celestial marriage becomes a reality, church forever, and this because of thy fam- ily” (D&C 23:3; emphasis added). In fact, each marriage starts with two bringing great joy in this life and in 9. See D&C 13. built-in handicaps. It involves two the life to come. 10. See Matthew 16:18–19; D&C 27:12–13;

94 Joseph Smith—History 1:72. 11. See D&C 110:11–16. 12. See D&C 128:8, 18; 132:45–46. 13. See 2 Nephi 10:2; 30:8. Gospel Teaching— 14. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Liahona, Oct. 2004, 49; Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102. 15. Liahona, Oct. 2004, 49; Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102. Our Most 16. Previously I have stated that “marriage is the foundry for social order, the fountain of virtue, and the foundation for eternal exal- tation” (“Nurturing Marriage,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2006, 36). Important Calling 17. Whenever scriptures warn that the “earth would be utterly wasted,” the warning is WILLIAM D. OSWALD connected to the need for priesthood authority to seal families together in holy Second Counselor in the Sunday School General Presidency temples (see D&C 2:1–3; 138:48; Joseph Smith—History 1:38–39). 18. D&C 49:16; see also Genesis 2:24; When we learn a few fundamental principles about Matthew 19:5; Mark 10:7–9; D&C 42:22; Moses 3:24; Abraham 5:18. teaching and are shown how to teach, all of us can do it. 19. 1 Corinthians 11:11. 20. Moses 1:39. 21. See 2 Nephi 9:22; Alma 12:8; 33:22; Helaman 14:17; Mormon 9:13; Moses 7:62; Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 7:69. our granddaughters how to jump 22. D&C 14:7. 23. See D&C 132:19. the rope. As they jumped the rope, 24. See Matthew 19:6. I noticed that the neighbor girls sang 25. Liahona, Oct. 2004, 49; Ensign, a song that helped them jump to the Nov. 1995, 102. 26. Psalm 127:3. rhythm of the swinging rope. 27. See D&C 132:19–20. Once our granddaughters under- 28. See D&C 88:33. stood the principles of rope jumping 29. D&C 132:7; emphasis added. 30. Jesus taught this concept to the people of and were shown how to jump the ancient America (see 3 Nephi 27:16–20). rope, the rest of the lesson was easy. See also 2 Nephi 33:4; D&C 42:61; Joseph With a little practice, both of the Smith Translation, 1 John 5:13. 31. See D&C 128:1–18; 137:7–8. twins were well on their way to mas- 32. See Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines tering the fundamentals of rope of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. (1954–56), 2:76–77. jumping. 33. See Alma 41:3; D&C 137:9. During the rope-jumping lesson, 34. “Messages of Inspiration from President another granddaughter, only three Monson,” Church News, July 5, 2008, 2. 35. See 2 Nephi 2:27; Jacob 6:8. years old, was sitting quietly on the 36. Satan wants us to be miserable, as he is lawn observing. When someone (see Revelation 12:9; 2 Nephi 2:18; D&C ecently Sister Oswald and I asked her if she wanted to try to jump 10:22–27; Moses 4:6). 37. See Alma 5:12–14. Such a mighty change decided to teach our five-year- the rope, she nodded, came forward, includes repentance, forgiveness, and old twin granddaughters how and stood next to the rope. As we a renewed determination to “come R to jump the rope. Jumping the rope turned the rope, to our great surprise unto Christ, and be perfected in him” (Moroni 10:32). is a children’s game in which partici- she jumped just as she had seen her 38. “The first principles and ordinances of the pants jump over a rope as it passes sisters do. She jumped once, then Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism under their feet and then over their twice, and then again and again, by immersion for the remission of sins; heads. After receiving some simple repeating aloud the same song the fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of instructions, both girls tried but failed older children had sung. the Holy Ghost” (Articles of Faith 1:4). Repentance requires a complete change on several attempts. All three granddaughters had for the better—a total personal upgrade. Just as we were ready to give up, observed that there was an art to 39. See D&C 93:1. two older neighbor children walked jumping the rope. It was a simple 40. See Moroni 10:32. 41. See D&C 93:13–14. by, and we enlisted their help. Both of thing that all of them could do after 42. D&C 93:19; see also D&C 66:2; 132:5–6. the neighbor girls were experienced learning a few basic principles and 43. See Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, rope jumpers and were able to show being shown how. So it is with gospel 2nd ed. (1966), 118.

NOVEMBER 2008 95 Jesus differed from other teachers of His day in that He taught “as one having authority.”7 This authority to teach and minister came from His Heavenly Father, for “God anointed Jesus . . . with the Holy Ghost and with power . . . ; for God was with him.”8 Following this pattern, Jesus was taught by His Heavenly Father, as recorded by John. Jesus said, “I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me.”9 “The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do. . . . For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth.”10 Throughout the scriptures we can find additional examples of successful gospel teachers who changed the lives and saved the souls of those they taught. From the Book of Mormon, for example, Nephi,11 Alma,12 and the sons of Mosiah13 readily come to mind. Notice the personal prepara- tion of the sons of Mosiah as they prepared to teach the gospel: “They had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were Two young men in Kiev, Ukraine, read a conference talk. men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures dili- teaching. When we learn a few funda- these basic principles, and second, we gently, that they might know the mental principles about teaching and need to be shown how they are used word of God. are shown how to teach, all of us by successful teachers. This can be “But this is not all; they had given can do it. done by carefully watching able teach- themselves to much prayer, and fast- President Boyd K. Packer often ers in our wards and branches and ing; therefore they had the spirit of reminds us that “all of us—leaders, reviewing the worldwide leadership prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, teachers, missionaries, and parents— training meeting on teaching and and when they taught, they taught have a lifelong challenge from the learning found on the Church Web with power and authority of God.”14 Lord to both teach and learn the doc- site or in Church magazines.4 Another powerful gospel teacher trines of the gospel as they have been The basic principles that apply to was Moroni, who was chosen as “a revealed to us.”1 As simply stated by learning and teaching the gospel are messenger sent from the presence Elder L. Tom Perry, “Every position in found in the scriptures. They are also of God”15 to teach and to tutor the the Church requires an effective discussed in an excellent but often Prophet Joseph Smith. Joseph has teacher.”2 neglected teaching resource entitled given us a brief but detailed descrip- Since every member is a teacher Teaching, No Greater Call.5 tion of what Moroni said and did and “teaching is the center of all that When we look for a model of the when he taught Joseph.16 we do,”3 we all have a sacred respon- ideal teacher who can show us how to The first time Moroni appeared to sibility to learn some basic principles teach the gospel, we are inescapably Joseph Smith, Joseph was a teenage of teaching. There are many princi- drawn to Jesus of Nazareth. His disci- boy of 17 with little formal education. ples of teaching and learning, and it is ples called him “Rabboni; which is to Joseph described himself as “an not enough for us just to read about say, Master” or “Teacher.”6 He was and obscure boy . . . of no consequence in them. First, we need to understand is the Master Teacher. the world,”17 and a friend later called

96 him “untutored” and “untaught.”18 In the hands of a patient and caring teacher like Moroni—and other heaven-sent messengers who instructed him—this young man would become the central figure in what the Lord referred to as “a marvelous work and a wonder.”19 What are some of the principles of teaching and learning we might iden- tify by observing the way Moroni taught Joseph Smith? There are a num- ber of important principles we could discuss, but let us focus on three basic principles essential to good teaching.

Principle 1: Show Love to Those You Teach and Call Them by Name Joseph Smith said that when the angel Moroni first appeared to him, Joseph “was afraid; but the fear soon left” him. What was it that Moroni did to help dispel this fear? Joseph said, “He called me by name.”20 Teachers who love their students and call them by name are following a heavenly pattern.21 School teacher Lucy Gertsch, noting Principle 3: Encourage the In a recent meeting with President that she was a teacher who knew the Pondering of Gospel Truths Thomas S. Monson, I noticed that he names of each student in her class. A third principle employed by greeted each of us by name. He spoke President Monson has said of her: Moroni in teaching Joseph Smith was to us about his boyhood Sunday “She unfailingly called on those who to cause him to ponder on what he missed a Sunday or who just didn’t had been taught. Joseph states that come. We knew she cared about us. after his third meeting with Moroni, None of us has ever forgotten her or he “was again left to ponder on . . . the lessons she taught.”22 what [he] had just experienced.”25 Effective teachers will want to follow Principle 2: Teach from the the pattern of the resurrected Christ Scriptures among the Nephites when He asked Another teaching principle prac- the multitude to return to their ticed by Moroni is that he knew and “homes, and ponder upon the things” taught from the scriptures. Joseph He had taught them so that they Smith said that at their very first meet- might “understand.”26 ing, Moroni “commenced quoting the Nephi reminds us that the act of prophecies of the Old Testament. . . . pondering involves using not only our He quoted many other passages of heads but also our hearts. He said, scripture, and offered many explana- “My heart pondereth continually tions.”23 From the many scriptures upon the things which I have seen quoted by Moroni, Joseph learned and heard.”27 The act of pondering on about his prophetic role in the com- the scriptures and the things we have ing forth of the Book of Mormon and seen and heard invites personal reve- the Restoration of the true gospel lation to come into our lives. again to the earth.24 I testify that teaching the gospel

NOVEMBER 2008 97 is a sacred and holy calling. When you love your students and call them by name, when you open the scrip- Returning Home tures and teach from them, and when you encourage your students ELDER EDUARDO GAVARRET to ponder the truths of the restored Of the Seventy gospel and apply them, then your influence for good will be magnified and the lives of your students will be What a tremendous impact we can make in the lives blessed more abundantly. In that glo- of so many . . . when we accept the Savior’s invitation rious day, they will say to you as it to feed His sheep. was said of Jesus of Nazareth, “We know that thou art a teacher come from God.”28 In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ lovely place is our house, our home, our refuge. NOTES Through the years our family has 1. Boyd K. Packer and L. Tom Perry, “Principles of Teaching and Learning,” lived in different countries, and in Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting, each one of them we were able to Feb. 2007; in Liahona, June 2007, 50; find within the Church the same feel- Ensign, June 2007, 82. 2. Liahona, June 2007, 52; Ensign, June 2007, ing of warmth from members in every 84; see also 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians ward we attended. 4:11–14. 3. Boyd K. Packer, Liahona, June 2007, 54; Each member of the Church Ensign, June 2007, 86. should have the opportunity to expe- 4. See Worldwide Leadership Training rience such pleasant feelings, and Meeting, Feb. 2007; in Liahona, June 2007, 49–80; Ensign, June 2007, 81–112; pro- they can experience these feelings ceedings of this worldwide leadership through our efforts of reactivation training meeting are also available at and missionary work. www.lds.org. 5. Teaching, No Greater Call (1999); item Let me share with you something number 36123. that has been happening in some 6. John 20:16; see footnote a. stakes and districts in Peru, and in so 7. Matthew 7:29; see also Mark 1:22. 8. Acts 10:38. t gets very cold during the winter doing, I will mention some family 9. John 8:28. in my hometown of Minas, names: the Causo family, the Banda 10. John 5:19–20. Uruguay. At sunset my mother family, the Vargas family, and the list 11. See 2 Nephi 33:1–13. I 12. See Mosiah 27:32–37; Alma 17:1–12. used to place logs in the fireplace in goes on. It includes over 1,700 names 13. See Alma 17:1–12. order to keep our dining room warm, of members who have come home. 14. Alma 17:2–3. 15. Joseph Smith—History 1:33. and one by one, my parents, sisters, They are members of different wards, 16. See Joseph Smith—History 1:27–54. and I would gather together, once our branches, stakes, and districts from all 17. Joseph Smith—History 1:22. daily chores were done. That cozy over the country of Peru who were 18. Orson Pratt, “Discourse,” Deseret News, July 21, 1880, 386. room—created by the warmth of the invited by stake presidents, bishops, 19. Isaiah 29:14; 2 Nephi 25:17; 27:26; see also fireplace, combined with the pres- and leaders of quorums and auxiliary 3 Nephi 21:9–10. ence of each one of the members of organizations to return home. They 20. Joseph Smith—History 1:32–33; see also v. 49. the family—instilled feelings within accepted the invitation made by 21. See Matthew 3:17; 3 Nephi 11:7; Moroni me that I shall treasure forever. priesthood leaders, full-time mission- 2:1–2; Joseph Smith—History 1:17. 22. Thomas S. Monson, “Examples of Great After my wife and I formed our aries, and others who took upon Teachers,” Liahona, June 2007, 77; Ensign, own family, wherever we were themselves the responsibility to help June 2007, 109. living, we all also gathered often, them return to Church and come 23. Joseph Smith—History 1:36, 41. 24. See Joseph Smith—History 1:33–54; see whether around a fireplace or simply unto Christ. To each one of them, we also D&C 20:8–9. around the warmth we always feel say, “Welcome. Welcome home!” 25. Joseph Smith—History 1:47. whenever we are reunited with our What made it possible for these 26. 3 Nephi 17:3; see also D&C 138:1, 6, 11, 29. 27. 2 Nephi 4:16; see also Moroni 10:3. children. persons to return home? It was the 28. John 3:2. What a beautiful feeling! What a combined effort of 14 stakes and

98 4 districts in a mission laboring for one year to bring about the return of all these persons through reactivation and the ordinances of baptism and confirmation. This effort was inspired by the Savior’s words: “Lovest thou me? . . . Feed my sheep” (John 21:16) and by the teaching of President Thomas S. Monson, who said: “Over the years we have issued appeals to the less active, the offended, the critical, the trans- gressor—to come back. ‘Come back and feast at the table of the Lord, and taste again the sweet and satisfying fruits of fellowship with the Saints’ ” (“Looking Back and Moving Forward,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2008, 89). Alma, feeling great suffering for the souls of his brethren, prayed to the Lord, saying: “O Lord, wilt thou grant unto us that we may have success in bringing Sister missionaries in Moldova pause with an investigator who was baptized them again unto thee in Christ. between sessions of conference. “Behold, O Lord, their souls are precious, and many of them are our Brother Vargas, whose home was (Matthew 25:35–36, 40). brethren; therefore, give unto us, O located in an area of limited access, While taking part in Sunday meet- Lord, power and wisdom that we may received a call one Saturday morning. ings a couple of weeks ago, I had the bring these, our brethren, again unto It was President Alarcón, calling from chance to meet a brother who was thee” (Alma 31:34–35). his mobile phone, announcing his attending for the first time after many President Angel Alarcón from the arrival. Brother Vargas then said: “I am years of being away. He was accompa- Puente Piedra stake in Lima, Peru, surprised; it is very hard to reach my nied by his wife, who was not a mem- shared the following experience with house.” ber of the Church. me: “Each Saturday, the missionaries, To which came the reply: “Well, I When I asked him why he had the bishop, some leaders from auxil- am at your door right now, and I wish decided to return, he replied, “My iary organizations, and I visit less-active to speak to you. We need you, and we friend Fernando and this good bishop members, nonmembers, and new con- invite you to come to our Church invited me to come, and I did. I found verts from 8:30 a.m. till noon.” meetings tomorrow.” the Church many years ago, and I At this point of his story, the words Then the man, who had stopped have a small flame still burning within of the hymn came to my mind: attending church for many years, my heart. It may not be strong, but it replied, “I will be there.” Thus, he is there.” Dear to the heart of the Shepherd, started his journey back home. I concluded, “Well, as your Dear are the lambs of his fold; “For I was an hungered, and ye brethren, we shall blow that flame Some from the pastures are straying, gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye together to keep it alive.” Then we Hungry and helpless and cold. gave me drink: I was a stranger, and gave each other a hug. ye took me in: The interest, attention, and care See, the Good Shepherd is seeking, “Naked, and ye clothed me: I was towards our brethren are profound Seeking the lambs that are lost, sick, and ye visited me: I was in manifestations of love for our Bringing them in with rejoicing, prison, and ye came unto me. . . . Heavenly Father. In fact, we express Saved at such infinite cost. “. . . Inasmuch as ye have done it our love for God when we serve and (“Dear to the Heart of the unto one of the least of these my when this service is focused on our Shepherd,” Hymns, no. 221) brethren, ye have done it unto me” neighbor’s well-being.

NOVEMBER 2008 99 King Benjamin taught about it: “And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye Testimony may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17). as a Process What a tremendous impact we can ELDER CARLOS A. GODOY make in the lives of so many less- active families and of those who are Of the Seventy not members of the Church when we accept the Savior’s invitation to feed To receive the witness of the “still small voice” His sheep and help everyone to come sometimes can have a stronger impact on our unto Christ! These experiences are a few of testimonies than the visit of an angel. what thousands of brethren are quietly doing: accepting the Lord’s invitation to feed His sheep. Let us remember that love and service are sharing their stories, I mentally like twins who seek each other’s reviewed my own experiences as a companionship. convert for something I could share Oh, that each one of us would with them, but I could not think of accept, as a beautiful demonstration anything very remarkable in my of our love for our Heavenly Father, process of gaining a testimony. the responsibility we bear as mem- While I was thinking and listening bers of this Church to seek after those to the others’ experiences, I realized who are not here with us! If through that the teacher expected me to par- this loving service we should bring ticipate. She was listening to the other only one soul to the Church and if we members, and she let me know that would make it the object of our lives, she was waiting for my great experi- how much rejoicing would we bring ence to be shared. After all, I was an upon us and upon those whom we Area Seventy, and I should have some- help return to Christ! thing impressive to share. Feeling that the time was passing and she was Hark! he is earnestly calling, waiting for me, I tried harder to find Tenderly pleading today: few years ago, when I was something that would fit in this cate- “Will you not seek for my lost ones, serving as an Area Seventy in gory of a powerful event, but I was Off from my shelter astray?” A Brazil, my family and I were not able to think of anything, to the (Hymns, no. 221) on vacation in the beautiful city of disappointment of the teacher. For all Florianópolis. On Sunday, as usual, I wanted to help, I could not meet her I testify that we are sons and we went to the closest church that expectation. daughters of a Heavenly Father, who we could find. My wife and I and our Fortunately that was a fast Sunday, loves us and who knows each of us by oldest daughter attended a Sunday and during sacrament meeting, I took our own name. School class where they were dis- the opportunity to express my testi- I bear my testimony of the love cussing our personal testimony of the mony to the congregation and espe- of our Father and Savior. He loved gospel. cially to that sister and her Sunday us first and gave His Son so that, At some point in the lesson, the School class. It was not a remarkable through Him, we could be able to teacher asked the class members if experience that I had to share but a come back home. I express my love they would share a powerful spiritual sincere testimony that I have about for Him, my Savior, my Lord, my experience they had while develop- the truths of the restored gospel. Master, and my Redeemer, in the ing their testimony of the Church. Sometimes we think that to have name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ While some brothers and sisters were a testimony of the Church, we need

100 some great, powerful experience, or a single event which would erase any doubts that we have received an answer or a confirmation. President Boyd K. Packer taught: “The voice of the Spirit is described in the scripture as being neither ‘loud’ nor ‘harsh.’ It is ‘not a voice of thun- der, neither . . . [a] voice of a great tumultuous noise.’ But rather, ‘a still voice of perfect mildness, as if it had been a whisper,’ and it can ‘pierce even to the very soul’ and ‘cause [the heart] to burn.’ (3 Ne. 11:3; Hel. 5:30; D&C 85:6–7.) Remember, Elijah found the voice of the Lord was not in the wind, nor in the earthquake, nor in the fire, but was a ‘still small voice.’ (1 Kgs. 19:12.)” President Packer continues: “The Spirit does not get our attention by shouting or shaking us with a heavy hand. Rather it whispers. It caresses so gently that if we are preoccupied we may not feel it at all. . . . “Occasionally it will press just firmly enough for us to pay heed. But most of the time, if we do not heed the gen- tle feeling, the Spirit will withdraw and wait until we come seeking and listen- ing and say in our manner and expres- sion, like Samuel of ancient times, ‘Speak [Lord], for thy servant heareth’ than the visit of an angel. my words” (Alma 32:27). (1 Sam. 3:10.)” (“The Candle of the As a young man in Porto Alegre, Since those days, for me as an Lord,” Tambuli, July 1983, 30–31; Brazil, learning about the Church investigator of the Church, and later Ensign, Jan. 1983, 53). from two sister missionaries, I as a missionary, and then as a father Great events are not a guarantee remember looking for an answer to and a leader, all of these experiences that our testimony will be strong. my prayers—something big and together formed a set of experiences Laman and Lemuel are good exam- unquestionable. It never happened. and feelings, most often small, that ples of this. They were visited by That does not mean that I did not leave no doubt that the seed “is a angels and even then, almost in the develop enough certainty to join the good seed” (Alma 32:30). very next minute, they were question- restored Church. Alma continues his teaching about ing the will of the Lord. Some great Alma teaches this process of nurtur- testimony: “Now, we will compare leaders of these latter days can also ing a testimony: “But behold, if ye will the word unto a seed. Now, if ye give teach us about this principle. They awake and arouse your faculties, even place, that a seed may be planted in were taught from on high during the to an experiment upon my words, and your heart, behold, if it be a true early days of the Restoration and still exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if seed, or a good seed, if ye do not were not strong enough to endure to ye can no more than desire to believe cast it out by your unbelief, that ye the end. These experiences show us [and I think that was my case as an will resist the Spirit of the Lord, that to receive the witness of the “still investigator], let this desire work in behold, it will begin to swell within small voice” sometimes can have a you, even until ye believe in a manner your breasts; and when you feel stronger impact on our testimonies that ye can give place for a portion of these swelling motions, ye will begin

NOVEMBER 2008 101 to say within yourselves—It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the word is good, for it begin- “Hope Ya Know, We neth to enlighten my understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious to me” (Alma 32:28). A testimony then, for some people, Had a Hard Time” may come through a single and ELDER QUENTIN L. COOK irrefutable event. But for others, it Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles may come through a process of expe- riences that, perhaps not as remark- able but when combined, testify in an We know from the scriptures that some trials are for our indisputable way that what we have good and are suited for our own personal development. learned and lived is true. Today, after many years as a mem- ber of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I might not be able to remember most of the experi- slid off the freeway. One lane was ences that have shaped my testi- open, and many vehicles, including mony. Still, all of these experiences ours, were desperately trying to gain have left their mark and contributed traction to avoid the other vehicles. to my testimony of the restored All traffic then came to a halt. Church. Today, I have an absolute We were not prepared for this bliz- certainty of the truths of the gospel zard in June. We had no warm cloth- of Jesus Christ. ing, and our fuel was relatively low. I would like to finish expressing this I huddled with the two boys in an testimony, not only for that sister who effort to keep us warm. After many taught the Sunday School class but also hours, safety vehicles, snowplows, for all of you. I know that our Heavenly and tow trucks began to clear up the Father lives. I know He loves us. We are massive logjam of vehicles. His children. He listens to our prayers. Eventually, a tow truck hauled us I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior. to a service station on the other side He died, was resurrected, and atoned of the pass. I called my wife, knowing for our sins. His Atonement has blessed she would be worried because she me every day of my life. ast winter my daughter had a had expected a call the prior evening. I testify that the Church of Jesus white-knuckle experience She asked if she could speak to the Christ was restored in these latter L driving in a severe snowstorm. two boys. When it was the three- days by the Prophet Joseph Smith. She reminded me of a similar situa- year-old’s turn, with a quivering He was a prophet of God. I know that tion I had with my two sons many voice, he said, “Hope ya know, we we are led today by a living prophet, years ago. My youngest son, Joe, was had a hard time!” President Thomas S. Monson. I know three years old, and my son Larry I could tell, as our three-year-old he is a prophet for our days, just as was six. We were traveling by car talked to his mother and told her of Moses, Abraham, and Isaiah were in from San Francisco to Utah in June. the hard time, he gained comfort and their days. The weather had been very good. then reassurance. Our prayers are The Book of Mormon is the word As we started our ascent to the that way when we go to our Father in of God, as well as the Bible, and it is Donner Pass summit in the Sierra Heaven. We know He cares for us in another testimony of the Savior. I Nevada Mountains, suddenly and our time of need. know that the power of the priest- without warning an enormous snow- hood was restored and has been storm hit us. None of the drivers was Each of Us Will Face Trials blessing many Saints throughout the prepared. A semitruck in front of us and Hardships in This Life world. And I testify of this in the had jackknifed and was spread across The incident I just recounted, sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ two lanes. Other trucks and cars had while a difficult travel situation, was

102 brief, and there were no lasting conse- there must be opposition in all between light and dark, hope and quences. However, many of the trials things for righteousness to be despair. As Elder Neal A. Maxwell and hardships we encounter in life brought to pass.2 This life is not explained, “The sharp, side-by-side are severe and appear to have lasting always easy, nor was it meant to be; contrast of the sweet and the bitter consequences. Each of us will experi- it is a time of testing and proving. is essential until the very end of this ence some of these during the vicissi- As we read in Abraham, “And we brief, mortal experience.”7 We know tudes of life. Many listening to this will prove them herewith, to see if from our doctrine that good will conference are experiencing situa- they will do all things whatsoever overcome evil,8 and those who tions of a most serious nature at this the Lord their God shall command repent and are sanctified shall be very moment. them.”3 Elder Harold B. Lee taught, given eternal life.9 We resonate with the Prophet “Sometimes the things that are best Near the time Dickens was writing Joseph’s petition after he had been for us and the things that bring eter- his novel, the heroic efforts of the falsely accused and imprisoned in nal rewards seem at the moment to early Saints who settled the Liberty Jail for months: “O God, where be the most bitter, and the things for- Intermountain West were occurring. art thou? And where is the pavilion bidden are ofttimes the things which Even with their common faith, the that covereth thy hiding place?” seem to be the more desirable.”4 Saints had experienced much hard- The Lord’s answer is reassuring: The novel A Tale of Two Cities ship and approached the evacuation “My son, peace be unto thy soul; opens with the oft-quoted line “It was of Nauvoo with very different expecta- thine adversity and thine afflictions the best of times, it was the worst of tions. Some looked forward with shall be but a small moment; times.”5 The scriptures make it clear optimism, others with concern. Two “And then, if thou endure it well, that each generation has its own ver- excellent examples are presented by God shall exalt thee on high.”1 sion of best and worst of times. We Helen Mar Whitney and Bathsheba One of the essential doctrines illu- are all subject to the conflict between Smith. Both have left compelling minated by the Restoration is that good and evil6 and the contrast records of their feelings.

NOVEMBER 2008 103 Sister Whitney recorded her expec- second son, John, was born. Her we endure, the reassuring doctrine tations upon leaving Nauvoo: “I will record of that is brief: “He was my of the Atonement wrought by Jesus pack away all my little ribbons, collars last child, and [he] lived only four Christ includes Alma’s teaching that and laces, etc., for we are going where hours.”15 Later in her life she was the the Savior would take upon Him our we cannot purchase them. We are matron of the Salt Lake Temple and infirmities and “succor his people going out from the world to live the fourth general president of the according to their infirmities.”19 beyond the Rocky Mountains where Relief Society. The scriptures and modern none others will wish to go. There We are deeply touched by the prophets have made it clear that will be neither rich nor poor among hardships that the early Saints there will be lean years and plentiful us, and we will have none but the endured. Brigham Young captured years.20 The Lord expects us to be pre- honest and virtuous.”10 Sister this somewhat humorously in pared for many of the challenges that Whitney’s words resonate with an February 1856 when he stated: “I come. He proclaims, “If ye are pre- idealistic optimism. might say something with regard to pared ye shall not fear.”21 Part of the Sister Bathsheba Smith’s recorded the hard times. You know that I have trauma I experienced crossing the feelings are also full of faith but evi- told you that if any one was afraid of Sierras in that blizzard many years ago dence some trepidation. She had seen starving to death, let him leave, and occurred because I was not prepared the mobs arrayed against the Saints in go where there is plenty. I do not for this sudden, unexpected event. Missouri and was present at the death apprehend the least danger of starv- One of the great blessings of the of the Apostle David W. Patten. ing, for until we eat up the last mule, scriptures is that they warn us of chal- Recalling the evacuation of from the tip of the ear to the end of lenges that are unexpected but often Nauvoo, she wrote: “My last act in the fly whipper, I am not afraid of occur. We would do well to be pre- that precious spot was to tidy the starving to death.” pared for them. One form of prepara- rooms, sweep up the floor and set He went on to say, “There are tion is to keep the commandments. the broom in its accustomed place many people who cannot now get In numerous places in the Book of behind the door. Then with emotions employment, but the spring is going Mormon, the people were promised in my heart I gently closed the door to open upon us soon, and we are not that they would prosper in the land if and faced an unknown future, faced going to suffer any more than what is they would keep the commandments.22 it with faith in God and with no less for our good.”16 This promise is often accompanied assurance of the ultimate establish- The challenges we face today are by the warning that if they do not ment of the Gospel in the West and in their own way comparable to chal- keep the commandments of God, of its true enduring principles, than lenges of the past. The recent eco- they shall be cut off from His pres- I had felt in those trying scenes in nomic crisis has caused significant ence.23 Clearly, having the blessings Missouri.”11 concern throughout the world. of the Spirit—the ministration of the Both of these LDS pioneer women Employment and financial problems Holy Ghost—is an essential element remained strong in the gospel are not unusual. Many people have to truly prosper in the land and to be throughout their lives and provided physical and mental health chal- prepared. wonderful service in building Zion, but lenges. Others deal with marital prob- Regardless of our trials, with the they faced many additional trials and lems or wayward children. Some have abundance we have today, we would hardships, which they both faithfully lost loved ones. Addictions and in- be ungrateful if we did not appreciate endured.12 Despite Sister Whitney’s appropriate or harmful propensities our blessings. Despite the obvious optimism, her first three children died cause heartache. Whatever the source nature of the hardships the pioneers at or near birth—two of them during of the trials, they cause significant were experiencing, President Brigham her extended exodus from Nauvoo to pain and suffering for individuals and Young talked about the significance of Salt Lake.13 Sister Whitney has blessed those who love them. gratitude. He stated, “I do not know us with her writings in defense of our We know from the scriptures that of any, excepting the unpardonable faith and was the mother of the some trials are for our good and are sin, that is greater than the sin of Apostle Orson F. Whitney. suited for our own personal develop- ingratitude.”24 Sister Smith recorded the poverty, ment.17 We also know that the rain sickness, and privation that the Saints falls on the just and the unjust.18 It is Gratitude for the Savior suffered as they made their way also true that every cloud we see and His Atonement west.14 In March of 1847 her mother doesn’t result in rain. Regardless of Our foremost gratitude should be passed away, and the next month her the challenges, trials, and hardships for the Savior and His Atonement. We

104 are aware that many who are listening to this conference are experiencing trials and hardships of such intensity that the underlying feeling in their hearts as they approach our Father in Heaven in prayer is “Hope ya know, I’m having a hard time.” Let me share with you the true account of one sister, Ellen Yates from Grantsville, Utah. Early in October, 10 years ago, she kissed her husband, Leon, good-bye as he left to go to work in Salt Lake City. This would be the last time she would see Leon alive. He had a collision with a young man 20 years of age who was late for his first job and had tried to pass a slower vehicle, resulting in a head- on collision that killed them both instantly. Sister Yates said that after two compassionate highway patrol- men told her the news, she plunged into shock and grief. She records, “As I tried to look ahead in life, all I could see was dark- ness and pain.” It turned out that her husband’s best friend was the bishop of the young man’s ward. The bishop called Sister Yates and told her that you, and will stand by you.”25 Think of the Savior in the Garden the young man’s mother, Jolayne Each October Sister Yates and of Gethsemane during the Atonement Willmore, wanted to talk with her. She Sister Willmore (both of whom are process, suffering agony so great that remembers “being shocked because I here together in the Conference He bled from every pore.27 His cry to was so centered on my grief and pain Center today) go to the temple His Father included the word Abba.28 that I had not even thought about the together and offer thanks for the This might be interpreted as the cry of young man and his family. I suddenly Atonement of Jesus Christ, for the a son who is in distress to his father: realized that here was a mother who plan of salvation, for eternal families, “O my Father, if it be possible, let this was in as much or more pain than I and for the covenants that bind cup pass from me: nevertheless not as was. I quickly gave my permission . . . together husbands and wives and I will, but as thou wilt.”29 I testify that for a visit.” families on both sides of the veil. the Atonement of Jesus Christ covers When Brother and Sister Willmore Sister Yates concludes, “Through this all of the trials and hardships that any arrived, they expressed their great sor- trial, I have felt the love of my Father of us will encounter in this life. At row that their son was responsible for in Heaven and my Savior in greater times when we may feel to say, “Hope Leon’s death and presented her with a abundance than I had ever felt you know, I had a hard time,” we can picture of the Savior holding a little before.” She testifies that “there is no be assured that He is there and we are girl in His arms. Sister Yates says, grief, no pain, no sickness so great safe in His loving arms. “When times become too hard to that the Atonement of Christ and the When our beloved prophet, bear, I look at this picture and remem- love of Christ cannot heal.”26 What a President Thomas S. Monson, was ber that Christ knows me personally. wonderful example of love and for- asked on his birthday this past August He knows my loneliness and my tri- giveness these two sisters have what would be the ideal gift that als.” One scripture that comforts Sister demonstrated. It has allowed the members worldwide could give him, Yates is “Wherefore, be of good cheer, Atonement of Jesus Christ to be effi- he said without a moment’s hesita- and do not fear, for I the Lord am with cacious in their lives. tion, “Find someone who is having a

NOVEMBER 2008 105 hard time, . . . and do something for them.”30 I, with you, am eternally grateful to Until We Meet Again Jesus Christ, the rescuer of mankind. I bear witness that He is the Savior and PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON Redeemer of the world. In the name ■ of Jesus Christ, amen. May we be good citizens of the nations in which we live NOTES and good neighbors in our communities, reaching out 1. D&C 121:1, 7–8. 2. See 2 Nephi 2:11. to those of other faiths, as well as to our own. 3. Abraham 3:25. 4. Harold B. Lee, The Fall of Man (address delivered at a meeting for seminary and institute teachers, June 23, 1954). 5. Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities May we long remember what we (Signet Classic, 1997), 13. 6. See 2 Nephi 2:15–16. have heard during this general confer- 7. Neal A. Maxwell, “Enduring Well,” Liahona, ence. The messages which have been Apr. 1999, 12; Ensign, Apr. 1997, 7. given will be printed in next month’s 8. See D&C 19:2–3; 133:64. 9. See D&C 133:62; 14:7; John 17:3. Ensign and Liahona magazines. I 10. A Woman’s View: Helen Mar Whitney’s urge you to study them and to pon- Reminiscences of Early Church History, ed. der their teachings. Jeni Broberg Holzapfel and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel (1997), 329–30. To you Brethren who have been 11. Bathsheba W. Smith, Autobiography, released at this conference, we ed. Alice Merrill Horne, typescript, 15, as quoted in Maurine Jensen Proctor express our deep appreciation for and Scot Facer Proctor, photo essay, your many years of dedicated service. “Joseph, Joseph, Joseph: The Temple The entire membership of the Church Has Returned to Nauvoo, Part 4, ‘Lift Up Thine Eyes,’” Meridian Magazine, 2002, has benefited from your countless http://www.meridianmagazine.com/ contributions. photoessay/020522nauvoo/ I assure you that our Heavenly 020522nauvoo3.html. 12. See Ether 12:6. Father is mindful of the challenges we 13. See A Woman’s View, 491. face in the world today. He loves each 14. See Heidi Swinton, “I Gently Closed the rothers and sisters, I know you of us and will bless us as we strive to Door,” in Heroines of the Restoration, ed. Barbara B. Smith and Blythe Darlyn will agree with me that this has keep His commandments and seek Thatcher (1997), 134. been a most inspiring confer- Him through prayer. 15. Bathsheba W. Smith, in Heroines of the B ence. We have felt the Spirit of the We are a global church, brothers Restoration, 134. 16. Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Lord in rich abundance these past and sisters. Our membership is Brigham Young (Melchizedek Priesthood two days as our hearts have been found throughout the world. May and Relief Society course of study, 1997), 177. touched and our testimonies of this we be good citizens of the nations 17. See D&C 122:7. divine work have been strengthened. in which we live and good neighbors 18. See Matthew 5:45. I am certain I represent the member- in our communities, reaching out 19. Alma 7:12. 20. See Genesis 41:29–31; Gordon B. Hinckley, ship of the Church everywhere in to those of other faiths, as well as “To the Boys and to the Men,” Liahona, expressing appreciation to the to our own. May we be men and Jan. 1999, 65; Ensign, Nov. 1998, 53. brethren and sisters who have women of honesty and integrity in 21. D&C 38:30. 22. See 2 Nephi 4:4. addressed us. I am reminded of the everything we do. 23. See Alma 36:30. words of Moroni found in the Book There are those throughout the 24. Teachings: Brigham Young, 177. of Mormon: “And their meetings were world who are hungry; there are those 25. D&C 68:6. 26. Ellen Yates, personal account delivered at conducted by the church after the who are destitute. Working together, the Grantsville Utah Stake conference, manner of the workings of the Spirit, we can alleviate suffering and provide Saturday evening session, Feb. 16, 2008. 27. See D&C 19:18. and by the power of the Holy Ghost; for those in need. In addition to the 28. Mark 14:36. for as the power of the Holy Ghost service you give as you care for one 29. Matthew 26:39. led them whether to preach, or to another, your contributions to the 30. Thomas S. Monson, quoted in Gerry Avant, “Prophet’s Birthday: Milestone of 81,” exhort, or to pray, or to supplicate, funds of the Church enable us to Church News, Aug. 23, 2008, 4. or to sing, even so it was done.”1 respond almost immediately when

106 disasters occur anywhere in the world. upon the rock of revelation. We anguish than [flaming] fire—eternal We are nearly always among the first know that continuous revelation is exile from God.”2 on the scene to provide whatever the very lifeblood of the gospel of My brothers and sisters, just as assistance we can. We thank you for Jesus Christ. eternal exile from God may be the your generosity. May each of us go safely to our most searing anguish, so eternal life There are other difficulties in the homes. May we live together in in the presence of God is our most lives of some. Particularly among the peace and harmony and love. May precious goal. young, there are those who are tragi- we strive each day to follow the With all my heart and soul I pray cally involved in such things as drugs, Savior’s example. that we might continue to persevere in immorality, gangs, and all the serious God bless you, my brothers and the pursuit of this most precious prize. problems that go with them. In addi- sisters. I thank you for your prayers I bear witness to you that this tion, there are those who are lonely, in my behalf and in behalf of all the work is true, that our Savior lives, including widows and widowers, who General Authorities. We are deeply and that He guides and directs His long for the company and the con- grateful for you. Church here upon the earth. I bid cern of others. May we ever be mind- In one of Christopher Marlowe’s you farewell, my dear brothers and ful of the needs of those around us plays, The Tragical History of Dr. sisters, until we meet again in six and be ready to extend a helping Faustus, there is portrayed an individ- months. In the name of Jesus of hand and a loving heart. ual, Dr. Faustus, who chose to ignore Nazareth, our Savior, our Redeemer Brothers and sisters, how blessed God and follow the pathway of Satan. whom we serve, amen. ■ we are that the heavens are indeed At the end of his wicked life, and fac- open, that the restored Church of ing the frustration of opportunities NOTES 1. Moroni 6:9. Jesus Christ is upon the earth today, lost and punishment certain to come, 2. See “Deviled Marlowe,” Time, Oct. 16, and that the Church is founded he lamented, “[There is] more searing 1964, 77.

NOVEMBER 2008 107 GENERAL RELIEF SOCIETY MEETING September 27, 2008

women in the Church without having an understanding of the Restoration Fulfilling of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Lord, knowing about the calamities that would come to pass in these latter days, spoke to His servant the Purpose Joseph Smith Jr. “and gave him commandments; . . . “That faith . . . might increase in the earth; of Relief Society “That [His] everlasting covenant JULIE B. BECK might be established; Relief Society General President “That the fulness of [His] gospel might be proclaimed by the weak and the simple unto the ends of the Relief Society was established by the Lord to organize, world.”1 teach, and inspire His daughters to prepare for the blessings The work of the Lord is accom- of eternal life. plished as His gospel is “preached unto every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people”2 and as His ever- lasting covenant is established through the ordinances of the temple. and edified with you in Brazil, Chile, Just as the Savior invited Mary and Puerto Rico, Canada, and the Martha of New Testament times3 to United States. participate in His work, women of this We rejoice in the knowledge that dispensation have an official commis- you are going about doing good, as sion to participate in the Lord’s the Savior did. You are doing a magnifi- work. From the earliest days of the cent work. Yet we feel impressed to say Restoration, women were active in that there is more to be done. We have helping build up the Church by sup- sought inspiration from the Lord to porting missionary efforts, contribut- know how to assist the priesthood in ing to the construction of temples, building up the kingdom of God on and establishing communities where the earth. It is time for Relief Society to the Saints could worship together. fulfill its purpose as never before. To The organization of Relief Society in move forward and achieve what the 1842 mobilized the collective power Lord desires, we must clearly under- of the women and their specific stand the purpose of Relief Society. assignments to build the Lord’s king- I will begin by reviewing some of dom, just as the organization of ur dear sisters, what a beauti- the history of Relief Society in order priesthood quorums gave men ful sight you are and how to explain why Relief Society was specific responsibilities. Ograteful we are to be with you. established. I will then outline three Since its organization, Relief Society Our love and appreciation for you are responsibilities that every Relief has spread throughout the world and profound. Society sister shares. Finally, I will has been called “the largest, and by all As a Relief Society general presi- explain how the Lord expects us to measure, the greatest women’s organ- dency, we have had the opportunity fulfill the divine commission that we ization on earth.”4 We know through this past year to visit you around the have received, both at an individual the Prophet Joseph Smith that Relief world. We have counseled with you in level and an organizational level. Society was a formal part of the Germany, Denmark, Australia, and Restoration and that a similar organi- Ghana. We have prayed with you in I. Why Relief Society Was Established zation for women existed in the Singapore, Hong Kong, India, and It is impossible to understand Church anciently.5 President Joseph F. Sri Lanka. We have been uplifted why we have an organization for Smith taught that Relief Society was

108 “divinely made, divinely authorized, Lord, is to organize, teach, and inspire family. When we serve the Lord and divinely instituted, divinely ordained His daughters to prepare them for the His children, our faith and capacity of God,”6 “according to the law of blessings of eternal life. I would like for righteousness increase. The three heaven,”7 to help the Lord “bring to to say that again. The purpose of responsibilities are inseparably con- pass the . . . eternal life of man.”8 Relief Society, as established by the nected. Let’s begin with the first Through Relief Society, women Lord, is to organize, teach, and inspire responsibility. have an official role in the Church His daughters to prepare them for the 1. Increase in faith and personal with great responsibilities, “including blessings of eternal life. righteousness. To do our part under working in the temple and teaching the plan of the Lord, we are to the gospel.”9 Further, Relief Society is II. Our Responsibilities increase our faith and personal righ- to help women “plant and make grow To fulfill the purpose of Relief teousness. Membership in the Church . . . a testimony of [Jesus] Christ and Society, the Lord has commissioned requires faith, which we nourish of the Gospel,”10 “strengthen the fam- each Relief Society sister and the throughout our lives with great ily and the home,”11 and “attend to all organization as a whole to: “diligence, and patience, and long- family duties.”12 It has responsibility suffering.”14 In the common heritage to take care of the “necessities of the 1. Increase in faith and personal we share, we have remarkable exam- poor, the sick and the needy,” but righteousness. ples of faith in the early women of the President Joseph F. Smith said that 2. Strengthen families and homes. Church. Early pioneer women were the larger part of its work is “to look 3. Serve the Lord and His children. driven from homes and persecuted after the spiritual welfare [and salva- because of their faith. Others survived tion] . . . of all the female members of Each one of these responsibilities fires and floods. They crossed oceans the Church.”13 supports and reinforces the other and walked thousands of miles, toler- To summarize, the purpose of two. When we increase our faith, the ating dirt, illness, and near starvation Relief Society, as established by the result of that effort strengthens our to help build the Lord’s kingdom on

NOVEMBER 2008 109 the earth. Many of them buried hus- me to teach time management and bands, children, parents, and siblings home organization to the other sis- along the way. Why did they do this? ters, perhaps because she saw that They did it because the fire of their I needed to improve those skills. faith burned in their souls. These Jeanne Horne encouraged me to remarkable women were not seeking complete my first serious personal fine clothing, greater leisure, large study of the Book of Mormon. Norma earthly mansions, or more posses- Healey gave me my first assignments sions. Like you, they had a conviction at the cannery and taught me much and a testimony that the restored about service. These wonderful gospel of Jesus Christ was true and women understood the purpose of that the Lord needed them to do Relief Society. their part in establishing His kingdom 3. Serve the Lord and His children. on the earth. Their pursuit of per- A third responsibility of all women of sonal righteousness was a daily effort the Church is to serve the Lord and to become more like the Savior His children. It is interesting to me through repentance, scripture study, that during the years my mother was prayer, obedience to commandments, away, I served as the ward Primary and through seeking after everything president and later as the ward Young “virtuous, lovely, or of good report or Women president. I was a member of praiseworthy.”15 the ward council, working under the 2. Strengthen families and homes. direction of the bishopric. President Our second responsibility is to Boyd K. Packer taught us that “just as strengthen families and homes. mother’s nurturing, wise, and encour- [the service of many brethren in the Families worldwide are being aging example. Now she was going Aaronic Priesthood] strengthens the assaulted and weakened by corrupt to be gone for a long time. This was Higher Priesthood, . . . to unselfishly practices and false teachings. before e-mail, fax machines, cell render this service [in Young Women Therefore, whether we are married phones, and Web cameras, and mail and Primary] is to show devotion to or single, old or young, we have a delivery was notoriously slow. One Relief Society.”17 When we serve in duty to defend and practice the day before she left, I sat weeping with another auxiliary, we are not released truths found in “The Family: A her and asked, “Who will be my from the sisterhood of Relief Society. Proclamation to the World.” mother?” Mother thought carefully, Because we do not go in or out of The First Presidency has coun- and with the Spirit and power of reve- Relief Society, we are always con- seled, “However worthy and appro- lation which comes to women of this nected to the purpose and responsi- priate other demands or activities kind, she said to me, “If I never come bilities of Relief Society and are may be, they must not be permitted back, if you never see me again, if I’m blessed by all opportunities to be to displace the divinely-appointed never able to teach you another thing, examples and faith-filled shepherds duties that only parents and families you tie yourself to Relief Society. to our Father’s children. can adequately perform.”16 Children Relief Society will be your mother.” Relief Society has within its com- being born now are growing up in an Mother knew that if I was sick, the mission some of the most remarkable increasingly sinful world. Our homes sisters would take care of me, and service opportunities on earth, which are to be their refuge from the daily when I had my babies, they would are available to all sisters. In my trav- encounters they have with evil. help me. But my mother’s greatest els across the world, I have seen that Relief Society should be organized, hope was that the sisters in Relief the thousands upon thousands of you aligned, and mobilized to strengthen Society would be powerful, spiritual who do not currently have a husband families and help our homes to be leaders for me. I began from that time or children are an incredible reservoir sacred sanctuaries from the world. to learn abundantly from women of of faith, talent, and dedication. No I learned this years ago when I was stature and faith. one is better positioned than you to newly married. My parents, who had Three different women held the work in temples, serve missions, been my neighbors, announced that calling of Relief Society president in teach the rising generation, and help they would be moving to another my wards during the years my parents those who are downtrodden. The part of the world. I had relied on my were away. Alta Chamberlain invited Lord needs you.

110 I have also marveled at the youth and energy of you who are just arriv- ing in Relief Society from the Young Women program. I have seen how your hearts yearn to make a differ- ence for good in the world. I often imagine the potential of what could be happening with family history work, for example, if you shared your technical skills with older sisters (like me!). We simply cannot afford to squander your youthful and energetic power by suggesting you sit by, watch- ing older and more experienced women do all of the planning, organ- izing, and work of Relief Society.

III. Fulfilling the Purpose We can do the work of the Lord in His way when we seek, receive, and act on personal revelation. Without Kingdom of God—nor will it until He expects us to fulfill the purpose of personal revelation, we cannot suc- both the sisters and the priesthood Relief Society as never before. I am ceed. If we heed personal revelation, catch the vision of Relief Society.”21 grateful to testify of the truthfulness we cannot fail. The prophet Nephi Relief Society was established by the of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ instructs us that the Holy Ghost will Lord to organize, teach, and inspire and of a living prophet today who show us “all things what [we] should His daughters to prepare for the bless- leads His work. In the name of Jesus do.”18 It was prophesied that in the ings of eternal life. Our aim is to sup- Christ, amen. ■ latter days the Lord would pour out port the women of the Church in their 19 NOTES His Spirit upon His handmaids. This individual responsibilities by ensuring 1. D&C 1:17, 21–23. will happen as we allow ourselves to that every meeting, every lesson, and 2. D&C 133:37. be still enough and quiet enough to every activity we undertake helps 3. See Luke 10:38–42. 4. Boyd K. Packer, “The Circle of Sisters,” listen to the voice of the Spirit. Elder them increase in faith and personal Ensign, Nov. 1980, 109. Neal A. Maxwell taught us that receiv- righteousness, strengthen their fami- 5. See Eliza R. Snow, “Female Relief Society,” ing revelation for our calling and lies and their homes, and serve the Deseret News, Apr. 22, 1868, 1. 6. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: in our personal lives “requires Lord and His children. Joseph F. Smith (Melchizedek Priesthood and serious mental effort on our part. . . . The only way we can accomplish Relief Society course of study, 1998), 185. 7. D&C 102:4. Revelation is not a matter of pushing this is by seeking, receiving, and 8. Moses 1:39. buttons, but of pushing ourselves, acting on personal revelation. The 9. Dallin H. Oaks, “The Priesthood and the often aided by fasting, scripture real power in this great worldwide Auxiliaries,” Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting, Jan. 10, 2004, 17. study, and personal pondering. sisterhood lies within each woman. 10. The First Presidency, “Memorandum of “Most of all, revelation requires us Though we may see ourselves as Suggestions,” Mar. 29, 1940, 2. to have a sufficient degree of personal weak and simple, we all share a noble 11. Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting, Jan. 10, 2004, 17. righteousness, so that on occasion heritage and can develop a faith that 12. D&C 20:47; see also v. 51. revelation may come to the righteous, is equal to that of remarkable, faithful 13. Teachings: Joseph F. Smith, 185. unsolicited.”20 women who have gone before us. 14. Alma 32:43. 15. Articles of Faith 1:13. We have a vital role to play in helping 16. First Presidency letter, Feb. 11, 1999. IV. Conclusion build the kingdom of God and 17. Ensign, Nov. 1980, 110. President Spencer W. Kimball stated preparing for the Lord’s coming. In 18. 2 Nephi 32:5. 19. See Joel 2:29. a number of years ago that “there is a fact, the Lord cannot accomplish 20. Neal A. Maxwell, “Revelation,” First power in this organization that has not His work without the help of His Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting, Jan. 11, 2003, 5. yet been fully exercised to strengthen daughters. Because of that, the Lord 21. Spencer W. Kimball, “Relief Society—Its the homes of Zion and build the expects us to increase our offering. Promise and Potential,” Ensign, Mar. 1976, 4.

NOVEMBER 2008 111 during the three days we spent at the Mesa Temple. I was deeply touched as Holy Temples, I watched family members embrace each other with tears streaming down their faces after being sealed for the eternities. Sacred Covenants Twenty-four years later the temple SILVIA H. ALLRED in San José, Costa Rica, was dedi- cated. Among those present at the First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency session I attended were many of the families who had gone on that first The temples are sacred, holy places. They are a source of temple excursion. They had waited spiritual power and strength. They are a place of revelation. faithfully and worthily for this sacred moment. They all can now attend the temple often because a temple in Panama was recently dedicated, and a temple in Honduras has been who died without receiving the neces- announced. sary ordinances of salvation. The Lord has always asked His I will address the deep significance people to build temples. The Lord of building temples, why the ordi- commanded Moses: “Let them make nances performed in temples are me a sanctuary; that I may dwell essential to our salvation, and how to among them.”1 The portable taberna- prepare to enter the temple. cle they built served as the central I have witnessed and been greatly place of Israel’s worship during their impressed by the sacrifices many pilgrimage to the promised land. Its members endure to get to the tem- pattern and structure were revealed ple. Let me share one such story. by the Lord to Moses. It was to be the In 1976, when we were living in Lord’s holy house. Costa Rica, the mission president Later, King Solomon built the tem- asked my husband to help organize ple in Jerusalem using the finest the first trip from the mission to a building materials available.2 temple. The Central America Mission During His earthly ministry, the then included Costa Rica, Panama, Lord regarded the temple as a sacred y heart is full of joy and grati- Nicaragua, and Honduras. The closest place and taught reverence for it. tude as I contemplate this temple was the Mesa Arizona Temple. The Nephites also built temples to Munique gathering of women The trip required us to travel five days the Lord in the Americas. They were throughout the world. What a privi- each way, crossing six borders. The gathered around the temple when lege it is to be part of this great financial sacrifice for most of those Christ appeared to them after His sisterhood, united in our desire to who went was great. They sold their Resurrection.3 strengthen our faith in the Lord Jesus television sets, bikes, skates, and any- Soon after the Church was Christ and build up His kingdom. I thing else they could sell. We traveled restored in this dispensation, the Lord pray that I may be guided by the Spirit in two uncomfortable buses day and commanded the Saints to build a tem- as I speak to you on the very sacred night. Some of the members had ple: “Organize yourselves; prepare subject of temple worship. used all their money to pay for the every needful thing; and establish a The most holy places on earth are bus fare and had taken only crackers house, even a house of prayer, a the temples. In the temple, worthy and margarine to eat on the way. house of fasting, a house of faith, a members of the Church receive the Why do members of the Church so house of learning, a house of glory, a greatest blessings anyone can aspire willingly and happily make such great house of order, a house of God.”4 to as we make sacred covenants with sacrifices to go to the temple? In response, the Saints built the God. We also help make those same I have never forgotten the great out- Kirtland Temple at considerable sacri- blessings available to our ancestors pouring of the Spirit we experienced fice. In this holy temple, important

112 priesthood keys were restored and the Savior Himself appeared.5 At present, there are 128 temples in operation throughout the world, and many more are being built. We have been instructed to build temples so that holy ordinances may be performed for both the living and the dead. These ordinances include initiatory ordinances, endowments, marriages, sealings, baptisms for the dead, and ordinations. The initiatory ordinances provide us with specific immediate and future blessings. The endowment embodies sacred covenants. It includes receiving instruction, power from on high, and the promise of blessings on condition of our faithfulness to the covenants we make. President Brigham Young defined the endowment the following way: “Your endowment is, to receive all Christ and His Atonement. We all pure heart; who hath not lifted up his those ordinances in the house of the receive the same instruction, but soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceit- Lord, which are necessary for you, our understanding of the meaning fully.”8 His house is holy, and no after you have departed this life, to of the ordinances and covenants will unclean thing may enter it.9 enable you to walk back to the pres- increase as we return to the temple The Lord has designated the ence of the Father . . . and gain your often with the attitude of learning and bishop and stake president to be eternal exaltation.”6 contemplating the eternal truths responsible for determining the wor- The sealing ordinances, such taught. thiness of individuals to receive a rec- as temple marriage, bind families Temple worship provides opportu- ommend to enter His holy house. We eternally. nities to serve the dead by performing have to be completely honest with The covenants we make with the vicarious ordinances for them. Family our bishop and stake president when associated ordinances we receive in history research may be done by any- they interview us before issuing a the temple become our credentials one outside the temple walls, but the temple recommend. The gift we bring for admission into God’s presence. sacred ordinances our dead ancestors to the altar is a pure heart and a con- These covenants elevate us beyond need for their exaltation can be trite spirit. Personal worthiness is an the limits of our own power and per- administered only in the temple. essential requirement to enjoy the spective. We make covenants to show The temple is the house of the blessings of the temple. our devotion to build up the king- Lord. He directs the conditions under We prepare by obeying the com- dom. We become covenant people which it may be used, the ordinances mandments and seeking to do God’s as we are placed under covenant to that should be administered, and the will. If you have not gone to the tem- God. All the promised blessings are standards that qualify us to enter and ple, start preparing now, for when the ours through our faithfulness to participate in temple worship. opportunity presents itself you will be these covenants. The Lord told Moses, “Put off thy ready and worthy. The temple is a house of learning. shoes from off thy feet, for the place When we go to the temple, we clear Much of the instruction imparted in whereon thou standest is holy our minds and hearts of thoughts and the temple is symbolic and learned by ground.”7 In Psalms we read: “Who feelings which may not be in harmony the Spirit. This means we are taught shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? with the sacred experiences of the from on high. Temple covenants and or who shall stand in his holy place? temple. We also dress in a modest, ordinances are a powerful symbol of “He that hath clean hands, and a proper, and dignified manner. Our

NOVEMBER 2008 113 dress and grooming for this sacred occasion are signs of reverence and respect for the Lord and His holy Now Let Us Rejoice house. Once inside the temple, we change into white clothing, which BARBARA THOMPSON symbolizes cleanliness and purity. We Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency are then ready to participate in the quiet reverence of temple worship. This eternal blessing is available to all Participation in Relief Society is part of our glorious heritage who are worthy to receive it. and blessing as women in the Lord’s Church. What can the women of the Church do to claim the blessings of the temple? Through His prophets, the Lord members today. There were young invites those who have not yet women and older women, women received the blessings of the temple who were formally educated and to do whatever may be necessary to women with no formal education. qualify to receive them. He invites There were married women, mothers, those who have already received and single women. There were these blessings to return as often as wealthy women and some who were possible to enjoy again the experi- very poor. They each had a love for ence, to increase their vision and one another, a love for the Lord, and understanding of His eternal plan. a desire to serve. By remembering Let us be worthy to have a current what Relief Society sisters did in the temple recommend. Let us go to the past, we can better understand and be temple to seal our families eternally. guided today. Let us return to the temple as often as At the first Relief Society meeting, our circumstances will permit. Let us the sisters were asked by Joseph give our kindred dead the opportunity Smith to assist the Brethren “in look- to receive the ordinances of exalta- ing to the wants of the poor—search- tion. Let us enjoy the spiritual strength y dear sisters, how blessed ing after objects of charity, and in and the revelation we receive as we we are! Not only are we administering to their wants.”4 He fur- attend the temple regularly. Let us be Mmembers of The Church ther admonished the sisters to act faithful and make and keep temple of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, “according to those sympathies which covenants to receive the full blessings but we are also members of Relief God has planted in your bosoms.”5 of the Atonement. Society—“the Lord’s organization for The sisters took this charge to I testify to you that the temples are women.”1 Relief Society is evidence of heart and became a society dedicated sacred, holy places. They are a source God’s love for His daughters. to serving the poor and needy. Sister of spiritual power and strength. They Doesn’t your heart thrill as you Emma Smith said, “We are going to are a place of revelation. They are the recall the history of Relief Society and do something extraordinary. When a house of the Lord. In the sacred name remember our very exciting begin- boat is stuck on the rapids, with a of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus nings? On March 17, 1842, at the first multitude of Mormons on board we Christ, amen. ■ Relief Society meeting, the Prophet shall consider that a loud call for Joseph Smith declared that “the relief. We expect extraordinary occa- NOTES Church was never perfectly organized sions and pressing calls.”6 1. Exodus 25:8. 2. See 1 Kings 5:5–18; 6. until the women were thus organ- In the early days of the Church, sis- 3. See 3 Nephi 11:1. ized.”2 He then organized the sisters ters provided relief as they went from 4. D&C 88:119. 5. See D&C 110. “under the priesthood after the pat- house to house. Doing what we now 3 6. Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. tern of the priesthood.” The small, call visiting teaching, the sisters went Widtsoe (1971), 416. diverse group of women assembled at about ministering to all—caring for 7. Exodus 3:5. 8. Psalm 24:3–4. that first Relief Society were dedicated and attending to the needs of others 9. See D&C 109:20. women, similar to Relief Society and ensuring that people had food,

114 clothing, shelter and providing relief but to save souls.”9 He further said, “I of the sisters should seek after this when needed. If a sister had some- now turn the key to you in the name gift.13 Women taught the gospel of thing to share, she would contribute of God, and this Society shall rejoice, Jesus Christ and followed the Savior it to the visiting sisters. If she was in and knowledge and intelligence shall in word and in deed. The sisters nour- need, the sisters would help provide flow down from this time.”10 Oh, I ished one another by the good word for her.7 love this statement. It reminds me to of God.14 Let’s devote ourselves to Relief rejoice in the blessings God has for Some women have said that it is Society, as advised by President Boyd K. the women of this Church. frightening to teach a class or speak Packer: “Service in the Relief Society Relief Society women have in front of a group. I can assure you I magnifies and sanctifies each individ- always sought to learn and grow. know from experience that it can be ual sister. . . . When you devote your- We know that “the glory of God is rather intimidating. Let’s remember self to the Relief Society and organize intelligence.”11 what Eliza R. Snow once said to her it and operate it and participate in it, In 1830, in a revelation given niece who was called upon to speak you sustain the cause that will bless through the Prophet Joseph to his in front of a group. When her niece every woman who comes within its wife, Emma, the Lord declared that arose, she was unable to say anything influence.”8 she should “expound scriptures, and because fear overcame her. She finally Just as Emma described the boat . . . exhort the church, according as just sat down. Eliza kindly and gently stuck on the rapids and the people it shall be given thee by my Spirit.”12 advised her, “Never mind, but when needing help, we can liken that to This charge was given not only to you are asked to speak again, try and our day when we see such things as Emma, but Joseph clarified that all have something to say.”15 a neighbor who is ill, a child who needs instruction, a teen needing a friend, or a family who has lost their income and needs assistance to get back on their feet. We hear of calamities, storms, or personal tragedy in the lives of our sisters everywhere. We need not rush about trying to find things to do or causes to take up. Remember, most often the help needed is in our own homes, neigh- borhoods, and communities. A kind word of encouragement, a note of thanks, a phone call, a loving smile, a helpful deed, and a reminder that God loves us are often what is needed most. We can lift and bless others in so many ways. Relief Society is not just a class on Sunday. It isn’t just a place we go if we are not teaching in the Primary or Young Women organizations. It is the Lord’s organization for women. Participation in Relief Society is part of our glorious heritage and blessing as women in the Lord’s Church. In those early meetings of Relief Society, Joseph Smith advised the sis- ters to teach one another the gospel of Jesus Christ. He said, “The . . . Society is not only to relieve the poor,

NOVEMBER 2008 115 will be safe within it. It encircles each sister like a protecting wall.”24 We must have this place of safety and protection! Don’t you just get excited to belong to Relief Society? As we remember what these noble women did in the past, we will be guided today and in the future. I testify that God, our Heavenly Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ, live and love us. I testify that we are led by a prophet of God. I testify that as we keep our covenants, we will be We will have something to say as of God we can do our part to build blessed immeasurably. In the name we prepare ourselves as the Lord has the kingdom of God. We will have of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ instructed. He says to “preach my help to do this. As Joseph declared, NOTES gospel by the Spirit,” and those who “If you live up to your privileges, the 1. Spencer W. Kimball, “Relief Society—Its preach and those who receive “under- angels cannot be restrained from Promise and Potential,” Ensign, Mar. 21 1976, 4. stand one another, and both are edi- being your associates.” 2. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: 16 fied and rejoice together.” As we Let us bear one another’s burdens, Joseph Smith (Melchizedek Priesthood and fervently prepare using the scriptures mourn with those who mourn, com- Relief Society course of study, 2007), 451; see also Jill Mulvay Derr and others, and approved Church materials and fort those who stand in need of com- Women of Covenant: The Story of Relief ask the Lord for help, He will give us fort, and thus keep the covenants we Society (1992), footnote 61, 445–46. “the unspeakable gift of the Holy have made.22 3. Sarah Granger Kimball, “Auto-biography,” 17 Woman’s Exponent, Sept. 1, 1883, 51. Ghost” and we will know what to say We are most blessed. The Savior 4. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: so that all are edified. stands at the head of this Church. We Joseph Smith (2007), 452. At a wonderful Relief Society meet- are led by living prophets, seers, and 5. History of the Church, 4:605. 6. Emma Smith, quoted in Relief Society, ing, Eliza R. Snow recorded in the revelators. We have the holy scriptures Minute Book Mar. 1842–Mar. 1844, entry minutes that “nearly all present arose to read, study, and gain answers for for Mar. 17, 1842, 12, Church Archives, The and spoke, and the spirit of the Lord our daily lives. We have holy temples Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 7. See Women of Covenant: The Story of Relief like a purifying stream, refreshed throughout the world where we can Society, 32–33. every heart.”18 We hope our sisters obtain the ordinances necessary to 8. Boyd K. Packer, “The Circle of Sisters,” Ensign, Nov. 1980, 110. today feel nourished, edified, and help us return to our Heavenly Father. 9. History of the Church, 5:25. uplifted every time they attend a And we have one another to help us. 10. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Sunday lesson, go visiting teaching, I see “the image of God engraven Joseph Smith (2007), 451. 23 11. D&C 93:36. participate in an activity, or perform upon [the] countenances” of you 12. D&C 25:7. any act of service. good women as I travel to many 13. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Sisters, now more than ever, we places in the world. I hear of your Joseph Smith (2007), 454; see also D&C 25:16. need women to step up and be good deeds and remarkable dedica- 14. See Moroni 6:4. strong. We need women who declare tion. I see the Light of Christ reflected 15. Eliza R. Snow, quoted in Emily S. Richards, the truth with strength, faith, and in your eyes. “General Conference: Relief Society,” Woman’s Exponent, Dec. 1901, 54. boldness. We need women to set an I know that, as Emma encouraged, 16. D&C 50:14, 22. example of righteousness. We need we can do something extraordinary 17. D&C 121:26. 18. Eliza R. Snow, Minute Book, entry for women to be “anxiously engaged in a today. We can be a righteous army of Apr. 19, 1842, 33. 19 good cause.” We need to live so that women armed with love, compassion, 19. D&C 58:27. our lives bear witness that we love kindness, service, and faith. We can 20. J. Reuben Clark, quoted in Providing in the Lord’s Way: A Leader’s Guide to Welfare our Heavenly Father and the Savior be a mighty force for good in this (1990), title page. Jesus Christ and that we will do what world. Then we will be what President 21. History of the Church, 4:605. They have asked us to do. We need to Packer describes: “The Relief Society 22. See Mosiah 18:8–9. 23. Alma 5:19. rescue “all that is finest down deep might be likened to a refuge—the 24. Boyd K. Packer, “The Circle of Sisters,” inside of [us]”20 so that as daughters place of safety and protection. . . . You Ensign, Nov. 1980, 110.

116 and one additional bay leaf.” Let me contrast that with the way Happiness, I cook. For the purpose of this talk, I asked Harriet to tell me what I cook best. Her answer: fried eggs. Your Heritage Sunny-side up. PRESIDENT DIETER F. UCHTDORF But that isn’t all. I have a specialty dish called Knusperchen. The name Second Counselor in the First Presidency may sound like a delicacy you might find at an exclusive restaurant. Let me Our birthright—and the purpose of our great voyage share with you how to make it. You on this earth—is to seek and experience eternal happiness. cut French bread into small slices and toast them twice. That is the recipe! So, between fried eggs, even when they are greasy, and Knusperchen, surrounded by women who inspired, even when they are burned, when I taught, and encouraged me. I am who cook, I feel pretty heroic. I am today in large part because of Perhaps this contrast between my these singular women. Each time I wife and me is a slight exaggeration, meet with the sisters of the Church, I but it illustrates something that may sense that I am in the midst of similar extend beyond preparing meals. remarkable souls. I am grateful to be To me it appears that our splendid here, grateful for your talents, com- sisters sometimes undervalue their passion, and service. Most of all, I am abilities—they focus on what is lack- grateful for who you are: treasured ing or imperfect rather than what has daughters of our Heavenly Father been accomplished and who they with infinite worth. really are. I’m sure it comes as no surprise, Perhaps you recognize this trait in but the differences between men and someone you know really well. women can often be quite striking— The good news is that this also physically and mentally, as well as points to an admirable quality: the emotionally. One of the best ways I innate desire to please the Lord to the y dear sisters, I am grateful can think of to illustrate this is in the best of your ability. Unfortunately, it for this, my first opportunity way my wife and I cook a meal. can also lead to frustration, exhaus- Mto speak to the women of the When Harriet prepares a meal, it’s tion, and unhappiness. Church gathered together in all parts a masterpiece. Her cuisine is as wide- of the world. We are especially hon- ranging as the world, and she fre- To All Who Are Weary ored today with the presence of quently prepares dishes from countries Today I would like to speak to President Monson and President we have visited. The presentation of those who have ever felt inadequate, Eyring. The choir has touched our the food is awe inspiring. In fact, it discouraged, or weary—in short, I hearts. We have been inspired by the often looks so beautiful that it seems a would like to speak to all of us. messages of Sister Thompson, Sister crime to eat it. It’s as much a feast for I also pray that the Holy Ghost will Allred, and Sister Beck. the eyes as it is for the sense of taste. amplify my words and bestow upon Since learning that I would be with But sure enough, no matter how them additional meaning, insight, and you today, I have thought about the perfect everything is, looks, and tastes, inspiration. many women who have shaped my Harriet will apologize for something We know that sometimes it can be life: my wonderful wife, Harriet; my she thinks is imperfect. “I’m afraid I difficult to keep our heads above mother; my mother-in-law; my sister; used a touch too much ginger,” she water. In fact, in our world of change, my daughter; my daughter-in-law; and will say, or, “Next time, I think it would challenges, and checklists, sometimes many friends. All my life I have been be better if I used a little more curry it can seem nearly impossible to avoid

NOVEMBER 2008 117 immortality and eternal life of man— because He is a God of creation and compassion. Creating and being com- passionate are two objectives that contribute to our Heavenly Father’s perfect happiness. Creating and being compassionate are two activities that we as His spirit children can and should emulate.

The Work of Creation The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul. No matter our talents, education, backgrounds, or abilities, we each have an inherent wish to create some- thing that did not exist before. Everyone can create. You don’t need money, position, or influence in order to create something of substance or beauty. Creation brings deep satisfaction and fulfillment. We develop ourselves and others when we take unorgan- ized matter into our hands and mold it into something of beauty—and I am not talking about the process of cleaning the rooms of your teenage children. feeling overwhelmed by emotions of God’s Happiness You might say, “I’m not the creative suffering and sorrow. Let me first pose a question: What type. When I sing, I’m always half a I am not suggesting that we can do you suppose is the greatest kind of tone above or below the note. I can- simply flip a switch and stop the nega- happiness possible? For me, the answer not draw a line without a ruler. And tive feelings that distress us. This isn’t to this question is, God’s happiness. the only practical use for my home- a pep talk or an attempt to encourage This leads to another question: made bread is as a paperweight or as those sinking in quicksand to imagine What is our Heavenly Father’s a doorstop.” instead they are relaxing on a beach. I happiness? If that is how you feel, think again, recognize that in all of our lives there This may be impossible to answer and remember that you are spirit are real concerns. I know there are because His ways are not our ways. daughters of the most creative Being hearts here today that harbor deep “For as the heavens are higher than in the universe. Isn’t it remarkable to sorrows. Others wrestle with fears the earth, so are [God’s] ways higher think that your very spirits are fash- that trouble the soul. For some, lone- than [our] ways, and [His] thoughts ioned by an endlessly creative and liness is their secret trial. [higher] than [our] thoughts.”1 eternally compassionate God? Think These things are not insignificant. Though we cannot understand “the about it—your spirit body is a master- However, I would like to speak meaning of all things,” we do “know piece, created with a beauty, function, about two principles that may help that [God] loveth his children”2 and capacity beyond imagination. you find a path to peace, hope, and because He has said, “Behold, this is But to what end were we created? joy—even during times of trial and my work and my glory—to bring to We were created with the express pur- distress. I want to speak about God’s pass the immortality and eternal life pose and potential of experiencing a happiness and how each one of us of man.”3 fulness of joy.4 Our birthright—and can taste of it in spite of the burdens Heavenly Father is able to accom- the purpose of our great voyage on that beset us. plish these two great goals—the this earth—is to seek and experience

118 eternal happiness. One of the ways we the Saints of his day. “There is a and strengthen the feeble knees.”7 find this is by creating things. great work for the Saints to do,” he Disciples of Christ throughout all If you are a mother, you participate said. “Progress, and improve upon ages of the world have been distin- with God in His work of creation— and make beautiful everything guished by their compassion. Those not only by providing physical bodies around you. Cultivate the earth, and who follow the Savior “mourn with for your children but also by teaching cultivate your minds. Build cities, those that mourn . . . and comfort and nurturing them. If you are not a adorn your habitations, make gar- those that stand in need of comfort.”8 mother now, the creative talents you dens, orchards, and vineyards, and When we reach out to bless the develop will prepare you for that day, render the earth so pleasant that lives of others, our lives are blessed as in this life or the next. when you look upon your labors you well. Service and sacrifice open the You may think you don’t have tal- may do so with pleasure, and that windows of heaven, allowing choice ents, but that is a false assumption, for angels may delight to come and visit blessings to descend upon us. Surely we all have talents and gifts, every one your beautiful locations. In the mean our beloved Heavenly Father smiles of us.5 The bounds of creativity extend time continually seek to adorn your upon those who care for the least of far beyond the limits of a canvas or a minds with all the graces of the His children. sheet of paper and do not require a Spirit of Christ.”6 As we lift others, we rise a little brush, a pen, or the keys of a piano. The more you trust and rely upon higher ourselves. President Spencer W. Creation means bringing into existence the Spirit, the greater your capacity Kimball taught, “The more we serve something that did not exist before— to create. That is your opportunity in our fellowmen in appropriate ways, colorful gardens, harmonious homes, this life and your destiny in the life to the more substance there is to our family memories, flowing laughter. come. Sisters, trust and rely on the souls.”9 What you create doesn’t have to be Spirit. As you take the normal oppor- President Gordon B. Hinckley perfect. So what if the eggs are greasy tunities of your daily life and create believed in the healing power of ser- or the toast is burned? Don’t let fear something of beauty and helpful- vice. After the death of his wife, he of failure discourage you. Don’t let ness, you improve not only the provided a great example to the the voice of critics paralyze you— world around you but also the world Church in the way he immersed him- whether that voice comes from the within you. self in work and in serving others. It is outside or the inside. told that President Hinckley remarked If you still feel incapable of creat- Being Compassionate to one woman who had recently lost ing, start small. Try to see how many Being compassionate is another her husband, “Work will cure your smiles you can create, write a letter of great work of our Heavenly Father grief. Serve others.” appreciation, learn a new skill, iden- and a fundamental characteristic These are profound words. As we tify a space and beautify it. of who we are as a people. We are lose ourselves in the service of others, Nearly a century and a half ago, commanded to “succor the weak, we discover our own lives and our President Brigham Young spoke to lift up the hands which hang down, own happiness.

NOVEMBER 2008 119 President Lorenzo Snow expressed importance. Let us open our eyes and a similar thought: “When you find see the heavy hearts, notice the loneli- yourselves a little gloomy, look ness and despair; let us feel the silent around you and find somebody that is prayers of others around us, and let us in a worse plight than yourself; go to be an instrument in the hands of the him and find out what the trouble is, Lord to answer those prayers. then try to remove it with the wisdom which the Lord bestows upon you; Conclusion and the first thing you know, your My dear sisters, I have a simple gloom is gone, you feel light, the faith. I believe that as you are faithful Spirit of the Lord is upon you, and and diligent in keeping the command- everything seems illuminated.”10 ments of God, as you draw closer to In today’s world of pop psychol- Him in faith, hope, and charity, things ogy, junk TV, and feel-good self-help will work together for your good.14 I manuals, this advice may seem coun- believe that as you immerse your- terintuitive. We are sometimes told selves in the work of our Father—as that the answer to our ills is to look One year ago in this meeting, you create beauty and as you are inward, to indulge ourselves, to spend President Monson taught that “you are compassionate to others—God will first and pay later, and to satisfy our . . . surrounded by opportunities for encircle you in the arms of His love.15 own desires even at the expense of service. . . . Often small acts of service Discouragement, inadequacy, and those around us. While there are are all that is required to lift and bless weariness will give way to a life of times when it is prudent to look first another.”12 Look around you. There at meaning, grace, and fulfillment. to our own needs, in the long run it sacrament meeting is a young mother As spirit daughters of our Heavenly doesn’t lead to lasting happiness. with several children—offer to sit with Father, happiness is your heritage. her and help. There in your neighbor- You are choice daughters of our An Instrument hood is a young man who seems Heavenly Father, and through the in the Hands of the Lord discouraged—tell him you enjoy things you create and by your com- I believe that the women of the being in his presence, that you feel passionate service, you are a great Church, regardless of age or family his goodness. True words of encour- power for good. You will make the status, understand and apply best the agement require only a loving and world a better place. Lift up your chin; words of James Barrie, the author of caring heart but may have an eternal walk tall. God loves you. We love and Peter Pan: “Those who bring sun- impact on the life of those around you. admire you. shine to the lives of others cannot You wonderful sisters render com- Of this I testify, and leave you my keep it from themselves.”11 Often I passionate service to others for rea- blessing as an Apostle of the Lord, in have witnessed quiet acts of kindness sons that supersede desires for the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ and compassion by noble women personal benefits. In this you emulate NOTES who extended themselves in unselfish the Savior, who, though a king, did 1. Isaiah 55:9. charity. My heart swells when I hear not seek position, nor was He con- 2. 1 Nephi 11:17. stories of the sisters of the Church cerned about whether others noticed 3. Moses 1:39. 4. See 2 Nephi 2:25. and how they rush to the aid of those Him. He did not bother to compete 5. See D&C 46:11–12. in need. with others. His thoughts were always 6. Brigham Young, Deseret News, Aug. 8, There are those in the Church— tuned to help others. He taught, 1860, 177. 7. D&C 81:5. both men and women—who wonder healed, conversed, and listened to 8. Mosiah 18:9. how they can contribute to the king- others. He knew that greatness had 9. The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball (1982), 254. dom. Sometimes women who are little to do with outward signs of pros- 10. Lorenzo Snow, in Conference Report, single, divorced, or widowed wonder perity or position. He taught and lived Apr. 1899, 2–3. if there is a place for them. Every by this doctrine: “He that is greatest 11. J. M. Barrie, A Window in Thrums (1917), 13 137. sister in the Church is of critical among you shall be your servant.” 12. Thomas S. Monson, “Three Goals importance—not only to our In the end, the number of prayers to Guide You,” Liahona and Ensign, Heavenly Father but also to the we say may contribute to our happi- Nov. 2007, 120. 13. Matthew 23:11. building of the kingdom of God as ness, but the number of prayers 14. See D&C 90:24. well. There is a great work to do. we answer may be of even greater 15. See D&C 6:20.

120 Teachings for Our Time

he following instructions Ward and branch leaders for fourth-Sunday should ensure that all mem- TMelchizedek Priesthood bers have access to the and Relief Society lessons Church magazines. replace those in Information for Priesthood and Auxiliary Suggestions for Preparing Leaders on Curriculum, a Lesson from Talks 2005 through 2008. • Pray that the Holy Spirit will Melchizedek Priesthood be with you as you study and Relief Society meetings and teach the talk(s). You on the fourth Sunday of each may at times be tempted to month will be devoted to set aside the conference “Teachings for Our Time.” All talks and prepare the les- “Teachings for Our Time” les- son using other materials. sons will be taught from talks But the conference talks in the most recent general are the approved curricu- conference issue of the lum. Your assignment is to Liahona or Ensign. These help others learn and live issues are published each the gospel as taught in the May and November. The most recent general confer- talks are also available online ence of the Church. (in many languages) at • Review the talk(s), looking www.lds.org. for principles and doctrines Each lesson can be pre- that meet the needs of class —Apply these principles strengthen their commitment pared from one or more members. Also look for sto- and doctrines in their lives. to live the gospel” (Teaching talks. Stake and district presi- ries, scripture references, • Review chapters 31–32 of Guidebook [2001], 12). dents may choose which talks and statements from the Teaching, No Greater Call. Please send comments should be used, or they may talk(s) that will help you about “Teachings for Our assign this responsibility to teach the principles and “What matters most is that Time” to Curriculum bishops and branch presi- doctrines. members feel the influence Development, 50 East North dents. These priesthood lead- • Make an outline of how you of the Spirit, increase their Temple Street, Room 2420, ers should stress the value want to teach the principles understanding of the gospel, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-0024, of having the Melchizedek and doctrines. Your outline learn to apply gospel prin- USA; e-mail: cur-development Priesthood brethren and the should include questions ciples in their lives, and @ldschurch.org. ■ Relief Society sisters study that help class members: the same talks on the same —Look for principles and Sundays. Teachers should doctrines in the talk(s) you Months Fourth-Sunday Lesson Materials seek counsel from their lead- are teaching. ers regarding any special —Think about the mean- November 2008–April 2009 Talks published in the November 2008 Liahona emphasis. ing of the principles and or Ensign* Those attending fourth- doctrines. Sunday lessons are encour- —Share their understand- May 2009–October 2009 Talks published in the May 2009 Liahona or aged to study and bring to ing, ideas, experiences, and Ensign* class the latest general confer- testimonies of the princi- ence issue of the magazine. ples and doctrines. *These talks are available (in many languages) at www.lds.org.

NOVEMBER 2008 121 For Adults • President Boyd K. Packer They Spoke to Us recounted several of the trials faced by early Latter-day Saints (see page Making Conference Part of Our Lives 88). How did their faith strengthen them during these trials? How can God, . . . we attain hope.” —President your faith strengthen you? (For addi- Dieter F. Uchtdorf (see page 21). tional ideas, see Elder Robert D. Hales’s talk, on page 72.) For Youth • Elder D. Todd Christofferson • President Henry B. Eyring taught identified three things we need in of building unity by speaking kindly order to be a Zion people (see page of one another: “I can promise you 37). Make a list of the ways you can a feeling of peace and joy when you progress in each of these areas. speak generously of others in the • Elder M. Russell Ballard and Light of Christ” (see page 68). Silvia H. Allred ow will you make the teach- • “Young people, [sacrament ings in general conference part meeting] is not a time for whispered Hof your life and the lives of conversations on cell phones or for your family members? Consider texting,” said Elder Dallin H. using some of these statements Oaks (see page 17). and questions as a starting point for discussion or personal pondering. You can also read, listen to, or watch general con- ference talks online at www.lds.org.

For Children • “May we be good citi- zens of the nations in which we live and good neighbors in our communities, reaching out to those • Elaine S. Dalton said, “I of other faiths, as well as to our own.” truly believe that one virtuous —President Thomas S. Monson (see young woman or young man, page 106). led by the Spirit, can change • “The children of God have the world, but in order to do more in common than they have dif- so, we must return to virtue” ferences. . . . God will help us see a (see page 78). difference in someone else not as a • To read confer- source of irritation but as a contribu- ence experiences tion. The Lord can help you see and by youth, go to value what another person brings newera.lds.org. which you lack.” —President Henry B. Eyring (see page 68). • “As we study the scriptures, speak with our Heavenly Father daily, [and] commit to keep the commandments of

122 A BIRTHDAY GIFT FOR PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON

In his conference talk, Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said: “When our beloved prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, was asked on his birthday this past August what would be the ideal gift that members world- wide could give him, he said without a moment’s hesitation, ‘Find someone who is having a hard time, . . . and do something for them.’”1 Children, would you like to give President Monson a birthday present? Think of an act of ser- vice you could do for someone. Maybe your grandpa needs help around the house. Or perhaps that new boy at school needs a friend. There are many people who need help, and many kind children to help them! Tell us about your act of service, and then read about many others in the August 2009 Liahona and Friend— President Monson’s birthday month!

Please e-mail your letter, photo, and permission to [email protected] or talked about the gospel being to [email protected]. Or send your letter, photo, and permission to: spread across the nations of the Birthday Service earth (see pages 81 and 10). Also, Friend [or Liahona] Magazine in his opening address, President 50 E. North Temple St., Rm. 2420 Thomas S. Monson said, “I urge you Salt Lake City, UT 84150-0024, USA to pray for the opening of those The following information and permission must be included: areas [where we are not allowed to share the gospel freely], that we ______might share with them the joy of Full Name the gospel.” If you remember ______President Spencer W. Kimball Age (1895–1985) sharing similar coun- ______sel, talk about your experience with State/Province, Country following that counsel. What have I grant permission to print submission and photo: you noticed about the growth of the ______Church in your own area? Talk with Signature of parent or legal guardian your family about praying together Please respond by December 15, 2008. Children whose that opportunities will be granted PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY JERRY GARNS, JOHN LUKE, MATTHEW REIER, AND CHRISTINA SMITH MATTHEW JOHN LUKE, GARNS, JERRY BY ILLUSTRATIONS PHOTO letters are submitted should be at least three years old. for the gospel to be preached in NOTE additional places. 1. Thomas S. Monson, quoted in Gerry Avant, “Prophet’s Birthday: • Whatever trials we may face, Milestone of 81,” Church News, Aug. 23, 2008, 4. Heavenly Father will not leave us alone (see the talks on pages 21, 29, 32, 41, 75, and 102). How have you seen Heavenly Father answer your prayers as you face difficult situations? ■

NOVEMBER 2008 123 CONFERENCE STORY INDEX The following is a list of selected experiences from general conference addresses for use in personal study, family home evening, and other teaching. Numbers refer to the first page of the talk. Speaker Story Doctrines or Principles Elder L. Tom Perry Elder and Sister Perry visit Walden Pond, 7 peace Silvia H. Allred Conversion of Sister Allred’s family, 10 missionary work Elder Neil L. Andersen Missionary realizes God loves him, 13 love, faith Man whose daughter died in an accident chooses to have faith, 13 faith Hadley Peay tells boy with disabilities about her deafness, 13 testimony, trials Elder Marcos A. Aidukaitis Conversion of Elder Aidukaitis’s father, 15 missionary work President Dieter F. Uchtdorf President Uchtdorf’s mother prays to find her children, 21 faith, hope Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin Young Joseph B. Wirthlin listens to his mother’s counsel after optimism, trials he lost a football game, 26 Wirthlin family finds humor in embarrassing dating situation, 26 humor Parents receive blessings from raising a son with autism, 26 joy, trials Daughter with persistent health problems puts her trust in God, 26 faith Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Boy is rescued by his father after crossing a flooded river, 29 ministering angels Elder D. Todd Christofferson Young single adults in eastern Europe attend conference, 37 unity Home teacher gives a table to an immigrant family, 37 generosity Elder David A. Bednar Sister Bednar offers prayer of thanks during time of tragedy, 41 prayer Elder Jay E. Jensen Young man saves a child in the Grand Canyon, 47 love, service President Dieter F. Uchtdorf Men “lift where they stand” to move a grand piano, 53 service Stonecutter John Rowe Moyle walks six hours to work on persistence, service the Salt Lake Temple, 53 President Thomas S. Monson Young men visit grave of Martin Harris, 60 priesthood, teaching Missionary couple serves five years in Poland, 60 service Theron Borup prays for help after his plane is shot down in prayer, priesthood World War II, 60 Bishop Keith B. McMullin Chinese official visiting Salt Lake City fasts and donates to the fasting, welfare Church welfare program, 75 Priesthood blessing given to seriously injured girl, 75 healing, priesthood President Thomas S. Monson War prisoner Jay Hess sends brief message to his family, 84 family, priorities Borghild Dahl is grateful before and after sight was restored, 84 gratitude, optimism Elder Quentin L. Cook Helen Mar Whitney’s and Bathsheba Smith’s pioneer experiences, 102 faith, optimism Ellen Yates grieves with mother of young man involved in car accident Atonement, forgiveness that killed Sister Yates’s husband, 102 Silvia H. Allred Members in Central America make financial sacrifices and travel temple five days to attend the temple, 112

124 NEWS OF THE CHURCH

178th Semiannual Conference Concludes

n his first semiannual so many temples been General Authorities, and general conference announced at one time. (See Elder Gerald N. Lund and I since being sustained in accompanying story on p. 126 Elder Robert R. Steuer were solemn assembly last April, for more information.) released from the Second President Thomas S. Monson Elder Earl C. Tingey and Quorum of the Seventy. announced five new temples Elder Sheldon F. Child were Elder Jay E. Jensen of the to be constructed around released from the First Seventy was sustained to fill the world. Quorum of the Seventy and the vacancy in the Presidency Not since April 2000 have were designated emeritus of the Seventy left by the release of Elder Earl C. Tingey. (See accompanying biographi- cal information on p. 128.) President Monson, who celebrated his 81st birthday on August 21, presided at the conference and conducted three of the sessions. He and his wife, Frances, celebrated their 60th wedding anniver- sary on October 7. available in American In addition to their publi- Sign Language, English, cation in the conference issue Portuguese, and Spanish. of the Church magazines, Audio files in more than 90 proceedings are available languages and text in 30 online at LDS.org. Video of languages are also available all conference sessions is online. ■

NOVEMBER 2008 125 President Monson Announces New Temples ore Church members the greater Kansas City, beautiful day for will receive the bless- Missouri, USA, area; all of us.” Mings of the temple Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, The temple in after the completion of five USA; and Rome, Italy. Sites for Calgary, Alberta, new temples announced the new temples have already Canada, will be built on during general conference. been acquired. Church-owned land next to President Thomas S. Monson “What a glorious day for us an existing meetinghouse in announced plans for the new to witness the announcement the northwest part of the city. temples during his opening of five new temples by our It will be the eighth temple remarks in the Saturday beloved prophet,” President in Canada and the third tem- morning session on October 4, Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second ple in the Alberta province. 2008. Counselor in the First Other temples in Canada The new temples will be Presidency, said in his confer- include those in Halifax, Nova built in Calgary, Alberta, ence address following the Scotia; Edmonton, Alberta; Canada; Córdoba, Argentina; announcement. “What a Cardston, Alberta; Regina,

126 Saskatchewan; Toronto, dedicated in 1986 in the on residential property in the The announced temple Ontario; Montreal, Quebec; capital city of Buenos Aires. Shoal Creek development. The will be the 12th in Europe. and Vancouver, British Steady Church growth in temple in Philadelphia will be Members of the Church in Columbia (the temple in the United States is reflected in built downtown, similar to surrounding countries will British Columbia is currently the announcement of plans for other temples built in urban benefit from less travel time under construction). a temple in the greater Kansas areas such as Manhattan and as well as reduced travel The temple in Córdoba, City, Missouri, area, and in Hong Kong. expenses. Argentina, will be situated Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Saints in the Mediterranean There are currently on the Belgrano meeting- These temples will add to will benefit greatly from the 128 dedicated temples in house site, next to the pres- the dozens of other temples announced plans for a temple operation and another 17 ent mission home. It will be throughout the United States. in Rome, Italy. The temple announced or under con- the 34th temple in Latin The temple serving the greater will occupy part of a 15-acre struction, bringing the total America and the second Kansas City area will be built (6-ha) Church-owned site number of announced or temple in Argentina. The in Clay County, Missouri, near the ring road skirting the operating temples through- first Argentine temple was within the Kansas City limits northeast section of Rome. out the world to 145. ■ Resource Guides Now Separate from Conference Magazines

he Aaronic Priesthood midweek activities with the and Young Women youth. These midweek activ- Tresource guides for ities are designed to coincide teachers, previously found in with the Sunday lessons, the general conference edi- giving the youth a tions of the Liahona and chance to experience Ensign, will now be pub- and apply what they lished separately and have been taught. Many shipped directly to of the activities help wards and branches. complete Duty to God “The guides supple- and Personal Progress ment and strengthen requirements. the Aaronic Priesthood “We’re tying what they’re and Young Women manu- learning on Sunday to a als by giving teachers the weeknight activity to help get most current words of the gospel into their hearts,” Church leaders on the subject Brother Madsen said. of the lesson,” said Michael G. Young Men and Young Madsen of the Church Women leaders are encour- Curriculum Department. aged to use the new guides The guides provide sup- with their teaching materials. plementary material for The guides include 11 spe- each lesson in the regular cific teaching tips to help the manuals by referencing instructors plan and present recent stories and talks from more effective lessons. current Church leaders and intended to supplement components to the new “If teachers follow these other Church magazine arti- and update the material guides: questions, additional tips, they can greatly improve cles. Questions, quotes, and within the current manuals, resources, experiences, and their teaching,” Brother teaching tips for the instruc- not replace the manuals teaching tips. Madsen said. tors have been added to the themselves. The new guides are The new guides for 2009 new guides, giving instruc- The resource guides will printed in 27 languages and were first available through tors more material to draw now be published separately offer Sunday lesson material Distribution Services on from. The new guides are once a year. There are four as well as suggestions for September 2, 2008. ■

NOVEMBER 2008 127 General Auxiliary Presidencies

SUNDAY SCHOOL Elder Jay E. Jensen Of the Presidency of the Seventy

married Lona Lee Child on November 1, 1963, in the Manti Utah Temple. They are Daniel K Judd A. Roger Merrill William D. Oswald the parents of six children. First Counselor President Second Counselor He earned his bachelor’s, RELIEF SOCIETY master’s, and doctoral degrees from Brigham Young University. After teaching seminary, he worked as director of cur- riculum for the seminaries and institutes of religion, director of training for the Silvia H. Allred Julie B. Beck Barbara Thompson fter spending several Missionary Department, and First Counselor President Second Counselor days taking care of a director of scriptures coordi- A problem while serving nation for the Church’s YOUNG MEN as president of the Colombia Curriculum Department. Cali Mission, Elder Jay Edwin Elder Jensen has served Jensen, recently called to the as a bishop, counselor in the Presidency of the Seventy, Provo MTC presidency, high recalls opening his scriptures councilor, high priests group on the flight back to the leader, Young Men president, mission home. Sunday School teacher, and A line from Doctrine and mission president. He was Dean R. Burgess Charles W. Dahlquist II Michael A. Neider First Counselor President Second Counselor Covenants 3:5 caught his called to the Second Quorum attention: “Remember also of the Seventy on June 6, 1992, YOUNG WOMEN the promises which were and to the First Quorum of made to you.” the Seventy on April 1, 1995. “Throughout life we face What he has learned difficulties, but the Lord from a lifetime of service is seemed to be reminding me illustrated by that early expe- that the promises are always rience he had with the scrip- greater,” Elder Jensen says. tures as mission president. Elder Jensen first began “There is power in the word Mary N. Cook Elaine S. Dalton Ann M. Dibb learning of the Lord’s prom- of God,” he says (see Alma First Counselor President Second Counselor ises from his parents, Ruel 31:5). He hopes, as Gideon Whiting and Ethel Otte did in the Book of Mormon, PRIMARY Jensen. Born in Mapleton, that his words “have been of Utah, USA, on February 5, service” to the King and the 1942, he was the 6th of 10 members of His kingdom children in a home “where (Mosiah 22:4). ■ the gospel was lived and taught,” he says. After serving in the Spanish American Mission Margaret S. Lifferth Cheryl C. Lant Vicki F. Matsumori First Counselor President Second Counselor from 1961 to 1963, he

128 COURTESY OF JON MCNAUGHTON Praise to the Man, by Jon McNaughton “Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. . . . He lived great, and he died great . . . ; and like most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood” (D&C 135:3). “Brothers and sisters, how blessed we are that the heavens are indeed open, that the restored Church and that the of Jesus Christ is upon the earth today, Church is founded upon the rock of revelation,” said President Thomas S. Monson in closing the know 178th Semiannual General Conference. “We that continuous revelation is the very of lifeblood the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

4 02022 11000 0 02211 Nov 08