Families and the Gospel of Jesus Christ

"The most important of the Lord’s work that you will ever do will be the work you do within the walls of your own home." -President Harold B. Lee

I'd always heard this quote said by many people as I grew up but now I have really come to understand it's importance and magnitude. I have met my fair share of broken families and it is sad to see the lack of confidence and hope in the future. In today's world, many people may neglect marriage, thinking that it is either outdated or unnecessary. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ however, we understand that marriage and family life are just as important and essential now as they ever have been.

While giving an address to young adults in 2001, Elder Bruce C. Hafen said, "The Restoration is a light of hope in this dark world. Not only does our Church offer the clearest vision about family history but also about future eternal families. These doctrines then shed a unique light on our present, everyday family ties." What is it about the Restoration that makes all of this possible? In the year 1836, as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy, the prophet Elijah returned to the earth and restored the power to seal on earth and in heaven. With this authority established, men and women can be sealed together as families for time and all eternity in temples of God. What an incredible blessing! I believe that everyone on this earth would accept the possibility of being with those they love forever, if they only knew where to find it. The Lord taught Joseph Smith that their are many in the world "who are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it (D&C 123:12)."

As a missionary for the Lord, I am sent to help people find the truth and the happiness associated with it. I am sent to declare to the world that the relationships we enjoy here on earth, can continue forever. Through the priesthood of God once again restored to the earth, it can happen.