President Eyring conducts, Pres. Monson presides
(A reminder that summaries can also be seen at this link).
Choir: fathers and sons in Orem, UT.
Choir sings “Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise.”
Invocation: Larry S. Kacher of the Seventy
Choir sings: “Jesus the Very Thought of Thee.”
Elder Neil Andersen
How does the Savior see your faith? Faith is not ethereal, does not fall upon us by chance. It is substance, the evidence of things not seen. Emits a spiritual light, and that light is discernible. Your faith is either growing stronger or becoming weaker. By the grace of Christ we will one day be saved by faith in His name. The future of your faith is not by chance, but by choice.
Brazilian young man, his mother died. His mother made him promise to take care of the family. He had to work and study and take care of three siblings. At age 23 he went on a mission even though he did not have any money. He did not have money for the mission, let alone for helping his family. His employer sent him extra income, he was able to go on a mission. Now, 20 years later, he recognizes that his faith did not come by chance, but by choice.
Using our mind without our heart will not bring spiritual answers. Jesus promised another comforter. Faith never demands an answer to every question, but seeks the courage to move forward, acknowledging, “I don’t know everything.” Concentrating on doubt weakens faith. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God.”
Questions about Joseph Smith have been around for many years. For now, give Bro. Joseph a break. In a future day, you will have more information. Born in poverty, he translated the Book of Mormon in 90 days. At age 38, he sealed his witness with his blood. I testify that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. Settle this in your mind and move forward.
BoM in 110 languages across the world. When was the last time you read the Book of Mormon from cover to cover? Read it again: it will increase your faith.
There are evil forces lurking in the darkness hoping to extinguish your faith. As you receive greater light and knowledge, your faith becomes settled and sure.
Told story about the death of a bishop and his wife and two children. Three other children left alive. Great faith shown on the part of the children left.
Faith is a choice, strengthen your faith. Your faith will allow you to stand with the ones you live in the presence of God.
