A New Beginning

Sacrifice

     The lesson for Sunday School today is on Sacrifice and I’m teaching it. I don’t consider myself a master of sacrificing the things of the world for the things of God. I wouldn’t even say that I’m good at sacrificing the things that I want for the things that I need. However, I am prepared to do my best in teaching those in my class what it means to sacrifice our all for the Lord.

     I think it’s one of the most interesting things about the gospel, that in order to build people  up and help them increase their knowledge in the gospel…and not only increase their knowledge, but inspire them to do good…you don’t have to be perfect at it yourself. I mean, look at missionaries for an example! We are sending out…scratch that…The Lord is sending out 18 and 19 year old kids (both boys and girls) to bring salvation and knowledge of our Redeemer to the rest of the world. You find me a model in any business, company, organization, etc. that uses that kind of “recruitment” or “advertisement” strategy. I don’t think there IS anything out there that does it the same. Yet, look at the success that is present in doing such a work like that.

     “But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;” – 1 Corinthians 1:27

     Anyways, I believe missionary work is a good example of how the Lord doesn’t expect us to be an expert in the gospel. I don’t even think it’s possible to become such in this life. Part of progression, at least in the gospel, is being able to help others along the same path/way toward God.

     “And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save.

     Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.” 2 Nephi 31:19-20

    

     I am grateful that this also applies with parenthood. Of course, I have not even begun to experience what it is like to be a parent, but I find myself feeling very inadequate. As I hold my newborn son, I have thoughts such as, “What can I teach this little one? I am nowhere near where I would like to be in order to feel adequate enough to raise him. Am I going to do a good job? Am I going to be a good father? How can I teach him to choose the right when I don’t even do that consistently myself?”

     As these thoughts flood my mind (nearly EVERYDAY I might add), I am reminded of the grace of God that accompanies and reinforces our weaknesses. As the apostle Paul stated:

     “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” – Romans 3:23

     Also, we can read in the bible dictionary:

     “It is likewise through the grace of the Lord that individuals, through faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ and repentance of their sins, receive strength and assistance to do good works that they otherwise would not be able to maintain if left to their own means. This grace is an enabling power that allows men and women to lay hold on eternal life and exaltation after they have expended their own best efforts” – Bible Dictionary, Grace

     I have a testimony in the grace of our Father and it is strengthened every single day. The more I hold my precious son in my arms, the more I am reminded that our Father, who is God Eternal, has created this perfect plan for us. This plan is called the Plan of Salvation. Included in this plan, and at the very center of it, is the Atonement of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It is only through the strengthening and enabling power of the Atonement that we are able to help others come to Christ while at the same time we do the same.

     Today, in preparation for my lesson on Sacrifice, that which I would like to sacrifice for our God NOW is:

·      The wasting of time with media/electronic devices (Facebook, television, i-Pad games, i-Phone, etc.).

     In place of wasting time on the electronic devices that we have, I will dedicate my time to strengthening things like my talents (piano, guitar, singing), testimony (more time studying scripture, both ancient and modern), relationships (wife, son, family, friends), and skills/hobbies (physical activity, reading, researching).

     Now, I would be somewhat of a hypocrite if I wrote all this and then didn’t extend the invitation for those of you who are reading this to do the same…don’t you think? J Well, I think it would be a great opportunity to stop and think of the things that you would be willing to sacrifice in order to become closer to God. What would they be? I would be interested in hearing them! Of course, if they are very personal, don’t feel obligated to share.

Happy Sabbath