The reconciliation of Jacob's family is a powerful example of how ruptures can be healed and peace restored. At the end of his life, Jacob found joy in being with his children and grandchildren. Upon his death, he was gathered in burial with other family members: his parents, his grandparents, and his wife Leah.
Their Love Can Sanctify
We do many things to show our devotion to God, but we must remember that these actions represents an invitation for God to bless us, an opening of our hearts to receive His sanctifying power. We seek for holiness, but only He can make us holy.
“I Will Be in the Midst of You”
After the Savior's resurrection, He stood "in the midst" of His apostles in Jerusalem and later "in the midst" of a large multitude in the Americas. When He returns to the earth, He will be in our midst. We will not only know He has returned; we will feel close to Him.
“Thus Shall My Church Be Called”
Jesus revealed the name of His church in 1838. He declared, "Thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." We honor Him and affirm our discipleship by using the full name of the Church.
That Through Him All Might Be Saved
In Jerusalem and in the Americas, Jesus proclaimed, "I will draw all men unto me." In 1832, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon learned more about the meaning of that promise. Jesus offers salvation to all of God's children, meaning that He makes available to us all of the glory which we are willing to receive.
Staying the Course
Success often requires persistence, and our discipleship is no different. Jesus promises salvation to those who “endure to the end.” The Greek hupoménō means “remain under,” evoking His yoke and cross. It's important to pace ourselves, but also to keep moving toward the goal.
“The Harvest Is Past”
Dwelling excessively on missed opportunities can be unproductive, but a sense of regret can spur a sense of urgency. There is a time to harvest crops, and there is a time to hear and repent. You can't delay indefinitely. The window of opportunity is finite.
Book of Mormon Elements in Doctrine and Covenants 20
The Articles and Covenants of the Church (D&C 20) outline core doctrines and priesthood duties, drawing heavily from the Book of Mormon. Some passages are quoted directly, while others synthesize multiple passages to affirm core doctrines. By relying on the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery grounded the restored Church on Christ’s gospel.
“The Foundation of My Church”
The church of Christ is built on a simple set of doctrines which are listed in 3 Nephi 27 and Doctrine and Covenants 18. We can follow the Savior's example by sharing these doctrines concisely, without unnecessary elaboration.
Preface to Four Revelations, April-May 1829
Four revelations received by Joseph Smith on behalf of different people have nearly identical openings. These openings are derived from combinations of biblical passages, all of which appear in some form in the Book of Mormon. Here is how I would paraphrase the message of this recurring introduction: Big things are about to happen, so pay close attention to what I'm about to say: People are ready to hear the gospel and if you work hard, you will find success in sharing it. I will answer your prayers, so ask me for help.