Sisters and Brothers —
After more than three months of uncertainty, restrictions and extra stress, I continue to be buoyed by your faith, strength, perseverance and diligence. You are appreciative of the blessings you receive and remain steadfast in the hope for better days ahead.
I was reminded last week that trials and blessings are not mutually exclusive. We’re not either in a time of prosperity or a time of famine. Life is a complicated wonder, trying us daily while giving us enough reminders of heaven to make the darkest days manageable. In fact, several times in the scriptures, this idea is emphasized with the word “nevertheless.”
“I, Nephi, having been born of goodly parents, therefore I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my father; and having seen many afflictions in the course of my days, nevertheless, having been highly favored of the Lord in all my days; yea, having had a great knowledge of the goodness and the mysteries of God, therefore I make a record of my proceedings in my days.”
1 Nephi 1:1, underline added
Nephi could both see “many afflictions” and feel as if he’s “highly favored of the Lord.”
Jacob, Nephi’s brother, was born during the family’s sojourn into the wilderness. His life was inevitably difficult. His younger years were spent in tents, wandering place to place. Just prior to his death, Lehi took time to speak to his children, including an admonition to Jacob.
“And now, Jacob, I speak unto you: Thou art my firstborn in the days of my tribulation in the wilderness. And behold, in thy childhood thou hast suffered afflictions and much sorrow, because of the rudeness of thy brethren.
“Nevertheless, Jacob, my firstborn in the wilderness, thou knowest the greatness of God; and he shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain.”
2 Nephi 2:1-2, underline added
Despite suffering “afflications and much sorrow,” Jacob also knew “the greatness of God.”
He then explains that God will consecrate his (Jacob’s) afflictions for personal gain.
How is God consecrating our suffering? What are we learning from our trials? What is our “nevertheless?”
Our lives are enhanced as we appreciate the way challenges and blessings work together. Times of trial drive us to our knees. They remind us of the brightness of hope that comes through the gospel of Christ.
I hope we all remember this as, for another week, I am authorizing those not attending church at the chapel (which is scheduled to be those whose last names start with H through P) to administer the sacrament in their homes. Sacrament should be administered by worthy priesthood holders of the appropriate office. If you need help with the sacrament in your home, please reach out to members of the bishopric or elders quorum presidency.
Have a great Sabbath and remember that the Lord loves you and knows you.
Bishop Bennett