Embedded Files
Because of Jesus Christ (Video)
Hello, my Zion sisters and brothers,
This coming Sunday is our special Fast Sunday. I hope each of us will seek the inspiration of our Father in Heaven to know who we can invite to worship with us on Easter.
It seems like the days and weeks of this year are moving so quickly…full of all the mundane activities of life and also full of special experiences; birthdays, baptisms, weddings, funerals.
Last Fall, Shirleen and I inherited two large boxes that belonged to my father at the time of his passing. They were filled to overflowing with items he had accumulated and held onto. Over the course of about two weeks, we carefully sorted and cataloged the contents of the boxes. There were certificates of blessings, copies of patriarchal blessings, report cards, photos, newspaper clippings, scriptures, love letters.
As we went through each item, I reflected on the moments that make up our lives… the moments that define us… to ourselves… to friends…to our children…to our grandchildren…and to God.
Among the contents, we found a two-page letter, written and sent to all of their children and grandchildren for Christmas in 1991. The letter was unceremoniously titled,
”Thoughts from Father and Thoughts from Mother”.
I’m sure I read the letter in 1991, but my parents are both on the other side of the veil, now, so I had a different perspective. As I read, I could hear their voices in my mind.
They spoke of what brings true happiness in life…
They shared their wisdom and their testimonies of Jesus Christ.
Here are a few brief excerpts…
“In our individual daily and hourly experiences, opportunities come to assist others in ways that are within our capabilities. Helping someone each day will usually not be spectacular in nature. But small, person-to-person acts of kindness will make a difference in both their lives and ours. Grasp each opportunity to be helpful in life.”
“Over the years there have been many times when the Spirit has testified to me of the truthfulness of the Gospel.”
“…on that day, the "feeling" which came inside of me is my fondest memory. That day I KNEW the Church is true.”
“,,, we didn't have much money so the Bishop questioned whether we should do this, but I assured him that we were supposed to help this missionary. We sent the money each month for the remainder of the mission and never missed it.”
“…I knew that my prayer would be answered, so continued to pray and try my best to be like the Savior.”
“,,,I had the feeling as if I had light inside of me and at the same time…I knew, and know forever, that He lives!”
This year we have talked and will continue to share, the many wonderful blessings that can come into our lives because of the temple and through family history.
Re-reading this letter was an unexpected and priceless blessing to me. My parents were ordinary, imperfect disciples of Christ. But their words and experiences have shaped and helped me in my journey of discipleship.
I thank God for them.
I’m glad they took the time to write a letter that blessed my life in 1991 but probably had an even greater impact in 2022.
Thanks, mom and dad. I love you…and I also know “that He lives!”
Dear sisters and brothers, I love each of you!
Thank you for sharing your lives and treasured moments with me as we journey together toward Zion.
Love,
President Gardner
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse