a home in this temporary place
February 4 2018
For people my age, the promptings of the Spirit can be hushed by the “hustle-bustle” of school, work, adult relationships, and spiritual self-reliance. Sometimes, it seems like it’s neverending.
I am still impressed by the testimony of a YSA Bishop at a baptism I was invited to in Arizona. When I attended this sacred event, my plan was to stay for the baptism and then slip out to be able to make it home on foot before dark. As I was sitting in the pews next to Will, who was also a ward missionary and knew the one getting baptized better than I did, he asked if I would need a ride home. I accepted.
Little did I realize how amazing that one little question was, or what it would lead to. In the middle of the service (the “half-time show”), the missionaries shared a few verses from 2 Nephi 31, speaking of the importance of baptism. Then, some of the members came up and bore their testimonies. As they were talking, I bent my head, folded my arms, and said a prayer to my Heavenly Father. I asked Him if I would ever settle down, and be able to find a home.
I am still impressed by the testimony of a YSA Bishop at a baptism I was invited to in Arizona. When I attended this sacred event, my plan was to stay for the baptism and then slip out to be able to make it home on foot before dark. As I was sitting in the pews next to Will, who was also a ward missionary and knew the one getting baptized better than I did, he asked if I would need a ride home. I accepted.
Little did I realize how amazing that one little question was, or what it would lead to. In the middle of the service (the “half-time show”), the missionaries shared a few verses from 2 Nephi 31, speaking of the importance of baptism. Then, some of the members came up and bore their testimonies. As they were talking, I bent my head, folded my arms, and said a prayer to my Heavenly Father. I asked Him if I would ever settle down, and be able to find a home.
Not 5 minutes later, the Bishop went up to speak. He said that he and his wife love embarking on spontaneous road trips, going to Utah and other places just for the sake of it. One of the things he said that they love is the rest stops. They get to talk to new people, exchange stories, and relax before continuing. He likened it to being part of a YSA ward. This is simply a “rest stop”, on the way to where we’re going.
I testify that the same can be said about mortal life. No matter where we go or what situation we find ourselves in; no matter how hard, frightening, sorrowful, boring, or painful. One day if we are worthy and we make the right choice, we will be able to return to the Savior’s open arms, and live with Him, and with Heavenly Father. That’s the destination. That’s when the hustle-bustle will end. That’s when we will all find home. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
I testify that the same can be said about mortal life. No matter where we go or what situation we find ourselves in; no matter how hard, frightening, sorrowful, boring, or painful. One day if we are worthy and we make the right choice, we will be able to return to the Savior’s open arms, and live with Him, and with Heavenly Father. That’s the destination. That’s when the hustle-bustle will end. That’s when we will all find home. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.