How much does it matter that we love and know our ancestors?
In this week’s Come Follow Me lesson we learn how the work restored by Elijah in the Kirtland temple is intended “to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the children to the fathers” (Doctrine and Covenants 110:15)
It’s so important that “Every prophet since Joseph Smith has emphasized the imperative need to provide all ordinances for ourselves and our deceased ancestors.” (Elder Richard G. Scott, Oct 2012)
Elder Scott (Oct 2012) promised youth who participate in this work that it is “a sure way to eliminate the influence of the adversary in your life? … I can think of no greater protection from the influence of the adversary in your life,” he said. “Eliminate” is a powerful promise!
In fact, studies have found ancestral awareness increases positive identity for youth:
Fivush, R., Duke, M., Candler, C.H., & Bohanek, J.G. (2010). The power of family history in adolescent identity and well-being.
“Stories of the familial past seem to provide a guide for adolescents’ developing sense of self and identity beyond everyday patterns of family interaction. Through sharing the past, families recreate themselves in the present, and project themselves into the future.”
Repeated in each book of scripture, we have been told that Elijah would come to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, see Mal. 4:5–6 (Luke 1:17; D&C 2:2; 110:14–15; 138:47; JS—H 1:38–39).
“… lest the whole earth be smitten with a curse— “ It’s that important!