Sisters and Brothers –
One of the first verses in the Book of Mormon that I memorized in ninth grade seminary was 2 Nephi 2:25.
“Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.”
2 Nephi 2:25
This scripture teaches two truths simply and eloquently. First, that the Fall of Adam wasn’t a gaffe in the plan of our Heavenly Father, but a necessary step to our creation and occupation of this earth. Second, Lehi teaches that we are intended to have joy during this mortal experience.
Joy is different than fun. It’s deeper. It withstands the temporary turbulence of our lives and lifts us to a higher level of appreciation for ourselves, the lives of those around us and the hope of even better things to come. As I have aligned my priorities with the words of God, I have been more joyful. President Ezra Taft Benson shared this pattern in general conference in April 1986.
“The word of God, as found in the scriptures, in the words of living prophets, and in personal revelation, has the power to fortify the Saints and arm them with the Spirit so they can resist evil, hold fast to the good, and find joy in this life.”
“The Power of the Word,” April 1986 general conference
Joy is found, not in earthly accolades and accomplishments, but in the journey toward those accomplishments. If we only allow ourselves to experience joy when certain conditions are met, then we will struggle to view things with the perspective required for lasting joy.
As we remember our eternal birthright and view our earthly trials as temporary learning opportunities that we knew would be part of this earthly experiment, these trials will draw us closer to God, give us confidence to overcome them and provide valuable experience that will allow us to better serve others.
Let’s allow ourselves to be joyful. It’s part of the plan of our loving Heavenly Father.
If you are unable to meet with us in-person for sacrament meeting, please feel free to view the broadcast here. As a reminder, families and individuals must reach out to a member of the bishopric for authorization to administer the sacrament at home.
Have a great day and know that the Lord loves you. Christ’s Atonement is real and heals faithful disciples from the burdens they unnecessarily carry. Repent and find the joy that comes from feeling forgiveness.
I love you all.
Bishop Bennett