July 5, 2010

Tonight I read another conference talk called He Lives! All Glory to His Name! by Richard G. Scott. It is a beautifully written talk and I felt like highlighting most of it! I think the thing that impressed me most that I never really thought about quite in this way is that it was the Atonement of Jesus Christ that "activated the plan of happiness." We know that as spirit children we shouted for joy in the preexistence when the plan was presented. We must have been thrilled to witness the creation of the Earth, knowing we were one step closer to being able to participate in Heavenly Father's plan. And oh how much we must have wept for joy and gratitude when the Savior fulfilled His glorious mission because without it, none of the other parts of the plan would have mattered because we wouldn't have been able to make it back to our Father's presence. Elder Scott says very convincingly that our "understanding of the Atonement will provide strength and capacity for a successful life. It will also bring confidence in times of trial and peace in moments of turmoil. ... It will greatly enhance our productive use of all the knowledge, experience, and skills we acquire in mortal life." He suggests that by spending heartfelt, sincere time pondering the scriptures along with prayer that we will be able to greatly fortify our understanding and appreciation of the Atonement. Another way he suggests to do this is through consistent temple attendance. (I think consistency is the key to so much of our understanding.) Well I want to write more of this talk and I will have to do it tomorrow.