The Motley Crew

For the past few weeks, I have been filled with a deep gratitude for the Lord's caring hand over my family. After that spectacular week when things went well for so many of you (job promotions, raises, graduation, college acceptance, etc.), I felt almost breathless with joy. My prayers became more intensely grateful but I found that they also became more fervent in behalf of each of you that you would remember the Lord at all times and that you would not forget the blessings you have received in the "easiness" of the way at least at this moment in your lives.

I remembered the stories in the Book of Mormon where the people became less grateful and more forgetful of the Lord's hand as they prospered and I realized that we have to be ever watchful that we do not make more of ourselves than we should. Despite all the talent, good looks, hard work, financial savvy, wisdom and knowledge you might posses, you must not forget where it came from. You were blessed with those gifts when you were born. You have developed them along the way and you have pleased the Lord.

In Alma 37, Alma gave counsel to his son Helaman that would be well for all to hear again.
In verse 36 he said, "Yea, and cry unto God for all thy support; yea, let all thy doings be unto the Lord; yea, let the affections of thy heart be placed upon the Lord forever." And then he finishes in verse 46 by saying, "O my son, do not let us be slothful because of the easiness of the way; for so was it with our fathers; for so was it prepared for them, that if they would look they might live; even so it is with us. The way is prepared, and if we will look we may live forever."

Perhaps the uneasiness that presents itself to me stems from information that has come to me over the past few weeks concerning so many old friends and their families. Divorce seems to be rampant, faithful children are no longer faithful, financial burdens have caused families much distress; illness and death have come to some. In a little way, I almost feel shattered by their unhappiness. We must cling to each other and we must cling to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

There is no one that has known more suffering or sorrow than our older brother, Jesus Christ. He is the one that should matter most in our lives. His approbation is the only thing that matters. No amount of worldy success will compensate if we fail in our quest to become like the Savior and Redeemer. Please remember Him always. Make sure He is always part of the equation of your lives. He loves each of us "more than life itself." Else why would He have suffered and triumphed over death? It was only because of His love for us. Please love Him back and follow Him, whose ways will bring perfect peace and happiness.