Disciples of Christ absorb bitterness. Imagine the impact as people experience suffering without passing it along and without letting it define them! Like the maror in the Seder service preceding the Paschal lamb, our suffering can turn our hearts to Christ, who can replace the bitterness with exquisite joy.
The Sign of Jonah
Jesus highlighted the prophet Jonah as a symbol of His Atonement. Jonah prefigured Christ by offering himself to save his shipmates. Additionally, he learned to accept Christ's individualized mercy during his three days in what he called "the belly of hell."
The God of Abraham
God chooses to be recognized by His interactions with prior generations. Abraham functions as a template for the covenant life. His descendants understand God through His interactions with Abraham, and they understand their identity as heirs of the blessings and the responsibilities of Abraham.
Family History and Belonging
Connecting with our ancestors can give us a sense of belonging and of contributing to an intergenerational project instead of merely pursuing individual ambitions. Lehi, Alma, Mormon, Joseph F. Smith, and M. Russell Ballard all expressed their deep connections with ancestors that shaped and enriched their ministries.
“Take Especial Care of Your Family”
God told Brigham Young to “take especial care of your family.” That counsel still stands today. President Dallin H. Oaks recently reminded us that family work, recreation, and learning are sacred priorities. When we turn off distractions, we will find sufficient time to fulfill our family responsibilities.
“What Are These Wounds?”
Zechariah foresaw a man bearing wounds which he received “in the house of [His] friends.” The Savior's wounds raise the question: What scars have we unknowingly inflicted on our loved ones? Fortunately, He can heal every wound, including the pain we sometimes cause to those we love the most.
Entangled Again
The Articles and Covenants of the Church begin with a personal story. After being forgiven, Joseph Smith was "entangled again in the vanities of the world." He repented and was forgiven again. When we humbly repent, God will set us free, even when our sins seem insurmountable.
“He Began to Remember”
Coriantumr refused to respond to prophetic warnings from Ether for a long time. When he finally saw the wisdom in those warnings, it was too late to avoid the consequences of his unwise decisions. It is so much better to heed warnings and repent early!
Knowing “Of Myself”
Both Alma and Nephi testified that they had received knowledge directly from God which they could not have gained on their own. These testimonies encouraged their listeners to open their hearts and receive the knowledge that only God can give.
“Prepare the Minds”
Alma told Corianton that his ministry included helping parents prepare the minds of their children to hear the Savior's words. Alma's father had prepared his mind so that he knew where to turn in his moment of crisis. We can do the same for our children.