One of the most surprising things that we might learn this week can be found in the very last words uttered by the prophet Lehi. As he lay dying and giving his final council to his family, Lehi references children and posterity an astounding 29 times in less than two chapters! The scriptural phrases alternate between “the fruit of my loins” and “my seed” 29 times. Is there any question that his family meant everything to him?
Lehi had seen visions of what would become of his family and he was concerned. Even on the deathbed, he never stopped teaching and loving them. What an example of a parent who never stopped teaching his children (both righteous and unrighteous) about God, His commandments, and His love. Lehi understood exactly what President Oaks meant when he taught that “the purpose of mortal families is to bring children into the world, to teach them what is right, and to prepare all family members for exaltation in eternal family relationships.”
Like Lehi, we are also concerned about our family. We know that this is why the earth was created and why temples are so important. And it’s why we never stop teaching and guiding them toward Jesus Christ and His covenant path. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” teaches us that:
“The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally.” (Family Proclamation Para 3)
Why is this so important?
Simply put, “marriages and families are meant to be eternal. … They are the order of heaven. They are an echo of a celestial pattern and an emulation of God’s eternal family.” (Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf)
Art: Vickie Wade