FIRST PRINCIPLES

I have had many opportunities to teach the gospel in many different settings.  Over the years I have learned that the gospel is based on the very basic principles and ordinances of faith, repentance, baptism and the Holy Ghost. 

Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the first step to understanding the deeper lessons taught by our Savior.  Without Faith many of us would not be able to find peace in this world.  Faith helps us to rely upon and understand the great power and miracle of repentance and forgiveness.  Faith helps us to accept the cleansing and healing power of the Atonement.

My patriarchal blessing counsels me to teach my children of the great love that Jesus Christ has for each of them.  You can only teach what you know.  I know how great the love that Jesus Christ has for each of us.  His unending patience and tolerance with our faults and weeknesses.  As my children, spouse and siblings have encountered temptations and have made poor choices I have learned to love them and accept them for who they are.  My family will learn of the great love that the Savior has for them through my meager example of emmulating him by acting as he would.  As I have tried to do as the Savior would I have grown closer to Him and to my Heavenly Father.  I appreciate more the great sacrifice.  I love my family even more than I did before.  Remember Faith, Hope and Love.  The great being Love.