Thank you to everyone for your wonderful comments during today's lesson: The Holy Temple - a Beacon to the World. I thought that it was a very appropriate lesson to discuss on Pioneer Day. We remembered the sacrifices that the early saints made to build temples as well as the sacrifices that many saints make to receive the ordinances offered therein.
President Monson: "Until you have entered the house of the Lord and have received all the blessings which await you there, you have not obtained everything the Church has to offer. The all-important and crowning blessings of membership in the Church are those blessings which we receive in the temples of God." He admonishes: "If you have not yet been to the temple or if you have been but currently do not qualify for a recommend, there is no more important goal for you to work toward than being worthy to go to the temple. Your sacrifice may be bringing your life into compliance with what is required to receive a recommend, perhaps by forsaking long-held habits which disqualify you. It may be having the faith and the discipline to pay your tithing. Whatever it is, qualify to enter the temple of God. Secure a temple recommend and regard it as a precious possession, for such it is."
President Monson, The Prophet, promises us sufficient spiritual protection in these Latter Days when we visit the temple: "The world can be a challenging and difficult place in which to live. We are often surrounded by that which would drag us down. As you and I go to the holy houses of God, as we remember the covenants we make within, we will be more able to bear every trial and to overcome each temptation. In this sacred sanctuary we will find peace; we will be renewed and fortified."
There have been times in my life when I felt prompted to attend the temple multiple times a week/month to gather the instruction and strength necessary to guide me through personal obstacles. I am grateful for the many blessings that I have received from visiting the House of the Lord.
