Dustin Morris
Danny Brownell
FDREL 211 ~ 29 (ONLINE)
December 19, 2013
Final Assessment Essay: The Things I Learned
During his life Christ prayed often and in one instances an account was written in the book of Luke which says, “But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” (Luke 22:32) Christ’s prayer was for us to have faith, to be converted, and when we have gained a testimony, we are to use it to strengthen others. Each of us as disciples of the Lord have tasted of the fruit that Lehi saw in his dream – and it is good. If we chose to live Lehi’s dream to the max, then we have to share our testimonies of the truth. Not because we have too, but because we want too. Remember if we love Christ, then we should be willing to follow his instructions to feed his sheep.
I know that many of us have testimonies of the principles of the gospel, but we often fall short of living up to them. That doesn’t make us bad people that makes us human, we are imperfect. Our desire to share the gospel is not dimensioned by hesitation to share it. Christ has told us that if we open our mouths, they will be filled, and we will become like Nephi of old. (Doctrine & Covenants 33:8-10)
In addition to missionary work, Christ often taught us about forgiveness and love. He showed us the importance of both in the parable of the prodigal son. As the story goes, there was a man who had two sons. Each of which stood to inherit all that their father had. One day one of the sons approached his father and asked if he could have his inheritance now instead of when his father passes away. With some hesitation his father obliged him and fulfilled his request.
The young man desired to break away from the restrictive traditions of his father. He sought to be free of what he felt were unfair rules and looked forward to exploring the world in his own right. Living lavishly and carelessly he soon found himself in quite the predicament. He was broke and indebt, living in squalor and literally eating with pigs from troths. It was then, and only after he had hit rock bottom that he realized his error. Covered in filth eating with pigs his heart was softened and he desired the true happiness he once had with his father at home. He remembered his father’s servants and felt that if only his father would take him back, he would live as a servant. For his father treated his servants well. He just knew if his father would have him, he could work off the debt of the squandered fortune and somehow return to his father’s good graces.
The young man mustered up the courage to make the long journey home, and in the distance his father saw him as he approached. With great joy and excitement his father greeted him with open arms and tremendous love. I can only imagine the reunion of a father and wayward son. I am sure the young man wept in his father’s embrace as he asked for forgiveness. What happens next is my favorite part. His father doesn’t seemed to be concerned about the errors the young man has made, he rather celebrate his return than focus on his sins. He tells his servants to prepare the fatted calf and to rejoice with him, as should we when any of our wayward friends return to the fold of the flock. If we ask for forgiveness, then it should be given, and we should remember the sins no more. (Luke 15: 11-32)
Finally we must have faith, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. If we believe in the Him, without a doubt, then all things are truly possible. If you recall the story in Matthew about the stormy sea and the apostles, then you might remember what happened when Peter called out to the Lord. As Christ approached the ship, the disciples became afraid, thinking that Christ was a spirit or ghost. Peter calls out to him saying, “Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.” “And he said, Come.” Peter leaped out the boat and walked for a moment on the water toward Jesus. It was only when he took his eyes off the Lord and focused on the tempos tossed seas did he begin to sink. Peter had faith to walk on water like Christ did; he also had faith to call upon him for help when he fell short saying, “Lord, save me.” And true to his character he immediately did so, stretching out his hand bringing safely back to the ship. (Matthew 12:22-33)
Through our faith all things are possible. Wayward steward can regain their blessing, hearts can be softened and people converted. As we testify of the truthfulness of the gospel sharing Christ love for the world we can hasten the work. I know this to be true I have seen it done in my own life. I was like the prodigal son; the more I sought freedom by rebelling against what I knew to be right, the further I fell into despair. It was only when a friend shared her testimony with me and invited me to come with her to church did I know there was a better way. And like the prodigal son, I was welcomed with open arms.
My faith has helped me remain true to the things I know to be right, and the scriptures have helped me draw nearer to my Father in Heaven. I know the Church is true. I know that there is a Christ. I know his order has been restored to the earth, and that he has called his prophet to lead and guide us in these latter days. Amen.
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