Dear Missionaries:
Today we taught our recent convert a lesson today on patriarchal blessings. As we discussed the great value of a patriarchal blessing in our lives, I felt that I should counsel every missionary to take time to read his/her blessing again and preferably this Sunday as you have time. I promise you that as you read your patriarchal blessing you will receive added insights to your missionary service. As you read your blessing, consider these words of counsel from the prophets.
President Monson has said that your patriarchal blessing is “your passport to peace.” A passport allows you to enter a country, but just having a passport doesn’t allow you to experience what the country has to offer. You have to use it. Go to that place of peace found in your patriarchal blessing often. There you will find the counsel, comfort, and promises that will bring you peace.
President Thomas S. Monson has said, “Read [your patriarchal blessing] frequently. Study it carefully. Be guided by its cautions. Live to merit its promises.”
A patriarchal blessing, according to President Ezra Taft Benson, is “personal scripture to you.” Study your blessing as you would the scriptures. As you read follow the same patterns used in scripture study: make cross-references, keep a journal of promptings you receive while you read, pray, ponder, make lists, memorize parts of your blessing. As you study your patriarchal blessing, think of how its counsel and promises give you direction, safety, and peace when you have trials or face difficult decisions.
The Liahona was a perfect compass for Lehi’s family as they traveled to the promised land—if they heeded it and kept the Lord’s commandments. As you seek for the promises made in your patriarchal blessing, heed the warnings given about what to avoid and what you should do to obtain those promises.
I know that a patriarchal blessing is another evidence of God’s love for us individually. It is personal and specific to what the Lord knows you need to be able to navigate this mortal journey. I hope you will feel the power, comfort and peace that can be found in your patriarchal blessing.
We love you and pray for you.
Best regards,
President Michael F. Marston
California Roseville Mission
916-847-5595
No comments:
Post a Comment