The lesson today was given by Peggy Campbell and was based on the talk given by President Uchtdorf at the Relief Society General Broadcast in September; “Forget Me Not.” In his talk, President used the unassuming forget-me-not as a metaphor for his message to each of Heavenly Father's beloved daughters. Simple and easily overlooked in the company of more exotic and flamboyant blossoms, it is none the less beautiful in its own way. Each petal on the tiny blossom stands for a loving message that should be shared with each sister.
The first reminds us not to forget to be patient with ourselves. All too often we are far more forgiving with the natural failings of others than we are of our own. We are all human and by definition imperfect, and our Heavenly Father is aware of that fact. He is also aware of our progress, our repentance, our efforts, all the positive things we do, no matter how small, and rejoices in them, probably more so than we do ourselves. We often tend to compare ourselves with others, forgetting that we often see others strengths and our own weaknesses as if through a magnifying class.
The second petal he used to encourage us to be sure that when we sacrifice our time, talents, resources and energies, it is for things that truly matter in the eternal scheme of things. Sacrifices for friends and family members and even strangers, can meet important physical and spiritual needs and are therefore worthwhile. Often, however, we are tempted to sacrifice good things for things that are of less eternal worth. We must not forget to discern the difference between good and foolish sacrifices.
The third petal reminds us not to forget to be happy now. Our lives, as we seek to live the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, can be filled with such joy and peace, even if we are still waiting for some aspect of life that we truly desire, but which presently eludes us. We should never allow ourselves to be oblivious to the wonders of life, its beauties and blessing because we are constantly seeking for one single blessing which we feel we need to make life perfect and complete. We must realize that the timetable on which blessings come is not ours but the Lord's and it would be so sad to miss all the blessings He is sending us, while we wait for that one desired blessing.
The fourth petal tells us to forget not the why of the gospel. We must be well schooled in the principles and ordinances of the gospel, obedient and faithful in keeping our covenants, but we must remember why there is a gospel in the first place. It is best said perhaps in the scripture that tells us it is God's work and glory to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. We are the reason for the gospel. It exists to afford us the iron rod that will lead us home again. We can rejoice in this fact and live the principles joyously and enthusiastically as we enjoy this mortal experience.
The fifth petal encourages us never to forget that we are known and loved by our Heavenly Father and His beloved Son Jesus Christ. We are God's beloved daughters and so much depends on us. We have been given such responsibility as guardians of the family, nurturers of those we associate with in our varied circumstances of life. He is mindful of us, of our cares, sorrows, worries and righteous desires. He will never leave us alone, especially in our darkest hours. We can rely on that promise and go forward in faith, confident that we can do those things we have covenanted to do, with His help.
Next week Presidency Message by Linda Marler.
Have a great week and remember to make scripture reading a priority in your life as we were taught so well by the Primary children!
The Relief Society Presidency
No comments:
Post a Comment