If you ask someone older how they felt when “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” was announced, they will likely say “I didn’t think much of it, it seemed like, ‘duh, of course’.” Today, the sentiment for some, is different. Some would say it is filled with “hot button” or outdated topics that challenge understanding and testimony.
This week’s Come, Follow Me lesson and the parable taught in Doctrine and Covenants 101:43–62 illustrates, among other things, the importance of a “watchman in the tower,” someone who can see things further out and from a higher perspective.
Twenty six years ago when our prophet and apostles put into one document a collection of truths about the family, they too acted as watchmen on the tower. They saw things further out and from a higher perspective. Almost an entire generation has grown up with it. It has remained a steady source of truths while the world around has changed drastically.
The questions in this week’s lesson can be an invitation for us to ask ourselves the same about the proclamation:
Do I ever question the commandments of God? How might a lack of faith or commitment allow “the enemy” to have influence in my life? How can I show God that I’m “willing to be guided in a right and proper way for [my and my family’s] salvation”? (see verses 63–65).
“Anchoring our souls to the Lord Jesus Christ requires listening to those He sends. Following the prophet in a world of commotion is like being wrapped in a soothing, warm blanket on a freezing cold day. …
The prophet’s voice, while spoken kindly, will often be a voice asking us to change, to repent, and to return to the Lord. … don’t be alarmed when the prophet’s warning voice counters popular opinions of the day. … As you are humble in following the counsel of the Lord’s prophet, I promise you an added blessing of safety and peace.”
Elder Neil L. Andersen