Embedded Files
“As you learn more about the Restoration and the remarkable tutoring of the Prophet of this dispensation, you will gain a firmer foundation for and deeper understanding of your own calling in the Church."
Russell M. Nelson
Dear sisters and brothers,
As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, we covered some really important topics in our last Coordinating Council meeting. One of those, of course, was the message I shared about the need for additional temple workers. It has been so exciting to see many of you respond to that message. Thank you! We are well on our way to having the 77 members of our stake called and/or serving in the temple by the end of the year!
Another important and timely topic from our Coordinating Council discussion was the pivotal mission of Joseph Smith.
This month, on the 23rd, we will celebrate the 216th birthday of this great man who is a leader among the ‘noble and great ones’ that Abraham saw in his vision of the premortal Council in Heaven. (Abraham 3:22)
I have a sense that his own humility made it possible for some of his contemporaries to take him lightly, but a true understanding of who he really is comes to us from the words penned after his martyrdom, found in Section 135.
“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...” (D&C 135:3.)
In the Coordinating Council meeting, Elder Huntsman, our Area Seventy, asked each of us to name a characteristic we admired about the Prophet. It was interesting and inspiring to hear each person share their feelings. The characteristic I chose was his obedient spirit. As I have studied and continue to contemplate his life, I recall this quote attributed to him.
“I made this my rule, when the Lord commands, do it”
We know from his own historical account that this is a principle he learned over time...sometimes through difficult and painful experiences. The fact that he developed this ability over time means we can all strive and eventually acquire the attribute of obedience and the blessings that follow it.
Elder Huntsman shared these three important recommendations and related quotes from President Nelson.
Study the Life and Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith in Depth
“As you learn more about the Restoration and the remarkable tutoring of the Prophet of this dispensation, you will gain a firmer foundation for and deeper understanding of your own calling in the Church."
Gain a Firm testimony of the Prophetic Role of Joseph Smith
“A testimony of the Prophet Joseph’s pivotal role in the Restoration is essential for all of us who are preaching the Lord’s gospel."
Seek Revelation for Our Own Ministries, Just as Joseph Did
“I declare that you, too, can and will be guided by heaven in your work as leaders of the Church. As you seek direction, guidance, and inspiration from on high, our Heavenly Father, His Son, and angels of heaven are willing and ready to help you. Ministering from the Holy Ghost is real as you seek guidance and help. I plead with you to do the spiritual work necessary to receive such direction and I promise you that, as you do, the Lord will shower you with revelation, confidence, and peace."
In my study since that Coordinating Council meeting, I have re-listened to a series of lectures by Truman G. Madsen on the Prophet Joseph Smith. If you have never listened to them or if it has been a while, may I suggest that you set aside time as part of your Christmas celebrations to remember and study the life of the most important “Revealer of Christ” in the latter days...Joseph Smith.
Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday, Joseph!
I love you all! Have a great week!
President Gardner
P.S. There is still time to send me a photo of you at the temple...Don't procrastinate, please :)
jeffgardner10@gmail.com
801-783-6381
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse