I was actually slightly nervous today in Relief Society because I knew I'd be coming home to write a summary of today's lesson. I felt like I was in school taking notes for an important test. I mean, all of zero people are going to read this, so I shouldn't be that nervous, right? :)
I've wondered how I'm going to do this, and I think since this is my "personal" journal, I'm going to share insights that I had about the lesson today. You can read the actual lesson if you click on the link above. It would be kind of redundant of me to just repeat what it says when it explains things a gazillion times better than me, so I'm just going to stick with what I know, and that's my OWN thoughts and feelings.
I really liked the first section when we talked about the Nauvoo Temple. Apparently, Joseph Smith and I have something in common--we were both very anxious for the temple to be built. The Nauvoo Temple holds a special place in my heart. For two weeks when I was 16, my parents and I stayed in a little tiny camper and volunteered in Nauvoo. The temple was under construction at the time, and my Dad worked on it. My step-mom worked in the sewing room making costumes for their shows, and I worked in Pioneer Past-Times playing with little kids. It was a wonderful two weeks, and I just fell in love with the place. I couldn't wait for it to be finished so I could go inside. Later, my family and I went there to perform work for our ancestors. It was amazing to know that these were my ancestors that we were helping. The feeling of peace there was so overwhelming. I feel so blessed that I was able to go in that beautiful temple because, unfortunately, Joseph Smith never got the chance. However, it is because of him that we are even able to use the many temples we have today. Like our lesson manual says, "Each of these temples is a symbol that the fulness of God's blessings to his children, living and dead, has been restored in this last dispensation" (509). If he had not restored the gospel, the Priesthood, the Book of Mormon, and the temple ordinances, we would not be able to do the important work that can only be done in the Temple.
One sister in Relief Society pointed out that it is such a beautiful thing that our church is ever changing. Because of modern revelation, we are able to receive guidance and doctrine from our living prophet to help us when we need it. She pointed out that sometimes it's hard when things change, but we also have the blessing (and free agency) to pray about these changes to find out for ourselves if they are true. What a wonderful feeling it is to know that the same things that have been revealed to our Prophet can be confirmed in our hearts if we only ask! The Lord is never going to leave us in the dark if we but seek for answers and ask sincerely.
I really liked this quote:
"This final dispensation is of such vast importance that it requires the complete, unselfish dedication of the Saints"(512).
Our teacher asked us why it is so important that we be "unselfish." I find that in my own home, when I stop thinking of myself and start thinking about my husband and children, we're all happier and things run more smoothly. I can only imagine that if everyone did that all the time in the church, the results would be like that times ten! But like some sisters pointed out, we are inherently selfish. It takes a lot of work to think of others, but, ultimately, it's going to be worth it.
One last thing I'd like to point out from today's lesson (I know... another thing? I promise I'm almost done!) is a question our teacher asked us.
What abilities and talents do we have that we can use to contribute to the building up of the Kingdom of God?
We are all blessed with different talents and abilities and for very good reason. If we all did the same thing, nothing would get done! Think about what talents YOU have that can help build the Kingdom. It can be singing, public speaking, cooking, sewing, organizational skills, leadership skills, your friendly personality, or even your beautiful smile. :) You have a gift, and we want to see it!
Well, that's all, I suppose. Be sure to check back often for updates! Oh, and click that little comment button below and tell me what you think! :D
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