Great Shall Be Their Reward and Eternal Shall Be Their Glory D&C 76
Sometimes when I think about eternity and the idea of making it to the Celestial Kingdom, I overwhelm myself. It seems like it is so complicated, and that being faithful and being an active member of the Church is so complex that I will never be able to do all that is required.
I loved this lesson and as I finish up my study of this section this week, I realize that it isn't complicated at all.
The Savior says we should become as little children, and maybe that is where my problem is--I complicate it myself instead of letting the simplicity of it take root. If children can do it with their sweet innocent faith, then it should be easier than I am making it.
The true message of this section is all about love.
Can you imagine what it must be like to live in a world where there is only heaven and hell? Nothing in between. You either do good and go to heaven, but if you mess up, you go to hell...where the eternal fires of damnation await you.
That's a pretty scary view of the next life to me. Where is the line? Is it a fine line, or is there gray area?
It is comforting to know that this is not the case. Heavenly Father loves each of us and has prepared a place for each of us, the least of which is still glorious beyond description. And this is the kind of loving, merciful God I know.
Perfection Pending
It's also comforting to know that even after leaving this life I will have the ability to continue working to perfect myself. This is especially good considering how far I have to go and knowing I'm not going to get there in this life.
President Nelson said this about perfecting ourselves in his fabulous talk "Perfection Pending":
Brothers and Sisters, let us do the best we can and try to improve each day. When our imperfections appear, we can keep trying to correct them. We can be more forgiving of flaws in ourselves and among those we love. We can be comforted and forbearing. The Lord taught, "Ye are not able to abide the presence of God now...wherefore, continue in patience until ye are perfected."
We need not be dismayed if our earnest efforts towards perfection now seem so arduous and endless. Perfection is pending. It can come in full only after the Resurrection and only through the Lord. It awaits all who love him and keep His commandments. It includes thrones, kingdoms, principalities, powers, and dominions. It is the end for which we are to endure. It is the eternal perfection that God has in store for each of us.
I realize as I read about this vision that Heavenly Father really does want me to make it back to live with Him, and He is doing all He can to help me if I am willing to do my part.
It has made me examine some of the areas where I am lacking and try to do better. And also strengthen further some of the areas where I feel like I'm doing okay.
(I could certainly use some work on my ministering, as I realized during my interview this week.)
I hope that as you study this section you will find comfort and motivation like I have. It's a beautiful vision, and Heavenly Father gave it to us for those times when we feel discouraged or like it's just too complicated.
Challenge Cards and Lesson Help Links
There are some GREAT lesson helps this week! I few of them are longer than what I usually post, but well worth the time. My favorites this week include the Follow Him podcast with Dr. Steven Harper and the Drawn In video (for families or kids).
There is a link to the podcast on YouTube below, or you can also find it in most podcast apps as well.
Am I Good Enough? Will I Make It?
The Three Degrees of Glory worksheet
Comments
I LOVE your beautiful insights, thank you!