So I have to admit that I do not read the Ensign as much as I used to . Sometimes its hard to run across that article about the blessings of the temple, or eternal families, when I feel that is being withheld from us because we have a gay son.
But this week for institute , our teacher asked us to read the article by Elder Russel M Nelson entitled Stand as true millennials from the October Ensign.
Stand as True Millenialls
" A true millennial is a man or woman whom God trusted enough to send to earth during the most compelling dispensation in the history of this world. A true millennial is a man or woman who lives now to help prepare the people of this world for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ and His millennial reign. "
I have struggled over the last 5 almost 6 years to many questions , one that MY son had to struggle with as well as so many others is "who they really are" They are asked and sometimes forced to live a life contrary to their very nature if they want the blessings of the gospel, and quite frankly want to "fit in" in society.
Elder Nelson says.... Therefore, my first recommendation is to learn for yourselves who you really are. Ask your Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ how He feels about you and your mission here on earth. If you ask with real intent, over time the Spirit will whisper the life-changing truth to you. Record those impressions, review them often, and follow through with exactness."
Each one of us has a divine mission. WE need to ask our Heavenly Father what that is. As I sat in class and we went over this again, the words came to my mind
" I have already told you what I need you to do"
Yes,
Several times I have had the feeling and impression that Tyler is part of our family because Heavenly Father knew we would love him and not be afraid to be a voice of Empathy and Love and compassion to others like him. HE knew that it would be difficult for us in the beginning , but if we would turn to him he would help us every step of the way. This is not the path I would have thought my life would take, but IT is the mission that Heavenly Father knew he could trust me with.
This also reminds me of the strength of these individuals like Tyler, Casey, Rachelle, Spencer, and Jordan, and MANY MANY others . What spirits they are to have accepted the assignment to come to this earth knowing they would be judged harshly by others, ridiculed, and may times hated just for who they are.
Elder Nelson continues ...."God has always asked His covenant children to do difficult things. Because you are covenant-keeping sons and daughters of God living in the latter part of these latter days, the Lord will ask you to do difficult things. You can count on it—Abrahamic tests did not stop with Abraham (see D&C 101:4–5)."
This life was not meant to be easy. WE came her to learn and be tested. To prove ourselves to God. I believe in a loving God who knows us perfectly, and will judge us according to the Desires of our hearts.
Alma 41:3 And it is requisite with the justice of God that men should be judged according to their works; and if their works were good in this life, and the desires of their hearts were good, that they should also, at the last day, be restored unto that which is good.
I don't mean to sound like I am complaining because I am not , just merely sharing my thoughts. This is one of the other things that I feel Heavenly Father has prompted me to do, to write and share my experiences, and feelings in the hope it can help someone else along the path.
Now I know for those of you who may have read this article previously, or here in the ink, are saying ... " this article is all about sharing the gospel and doing missionary work."
That is true it does talk about that, but for me, the messages that are contained herein , can apply to so many things, and for me, it was another confirmation to me from my Heavenly Father that he knows me and is aware of me.
He is giving me answers in some very unexpected places. Many times it is through music, sometimes it is in a sacrament meeting talk, or a message at Time out for Women?
Today it was in my study at my institute class, from a message from one of his prophets.
Haven't you ever discussed general conference and see that everyone got something different out of it?
Maybe this is only for me.
Maybe this is just for my kids and grandkids to read and learn from?
Or maybe this might help one other person who is struggling with their mission and purpose here in this life.
Elder Nelson states ...".You will have days when you will be thoroughly discouraged. So pray for courage not to give up!"
My mission here is important .
Your mission is important
Your Heavenly Father Loves you and wants you to be happy.
Take the time to read this article and see what little nuggets stand out to you.
Being a millennial is not about how old you are. It is about being strong and courageous to move forward in doing what God has sent you here to do.
Don't let the angry voices of the world drag you away form your Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ.
Remember those things you have felt and learned.
Hang on to that
You are mighty warriors in the kingdom of God .
You have worth and value
You just might be the one who can help someone else to hang on to the light they once had.
Together we can become better disciples of Christ. Practicing Charity and the pure love of Christ.
WE won't always get it right, but as long as we keep trying, that is all he asks of us.
and to echo Elder Nelson Pray for Courage not to give up
