The Gospel Blesses Families

(Elder Cummings) 

I love missionary work!  I love the joy that comes from it!  There has been nothing in my life so far that brings me the same kind of joy as sharing the gospel.  It is a universal message.  No matter what your walk of life may be, no matter what age you are, no matter the color of your skin, the size of your shoes, the bounce in your step or level of interest the gospel of Jesus Christ will resonate in your very soul when presented by the Spirit of God.

I have seen that miracle this week.  This week more than any other I have been being bold in sharing what I know with everyone I see.  While I haven't been perfect I know I am being blessed for my efforts.

The spiritual highlight of my week was when we contacted a man named Daniel in the parking lot of his apartment complex.  A father of three daughters living in humble circumstances, but most importantly a son of the true and living God living through this time of probation.  We talked with him of the joy of families, of God's plan for families, and of the Prophet Joseph Smith through whom we know such a marvelous truth!  After telling him that God intends for him and his children to be together as a family for eternity he turned to his daughter Sariah and asked "you don't really want to be with a mean old dad like me forever, do you?"  She looked up, looked him right in the eyes, and said with the voice of a four year old and the wisdom of a lifetime that "Yes, Dad.  I want to."  Daniel was visibly moved and agreed to allow missionaries to come by another day to share with him more of the truths that God has revealed through living prophets.

We have an amazing opportunity in this life to repent and to "prepare to meet God" (Alma 34:32).  We have an amazing opportunity to live with our families "for time and for all eternity" (132:18).  God does not intend for the greatest source of human happiness to end at a graveside.  His vision for His children is far more grand and glorious than we can presently comprehend.  The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the foundation of God's plan for us "to be successful in this life and to return to live in His presence" "(Preach My Gospel chapter 3, "God is Our Loving Heavenly Father").  I bear to you all my witness of His miraculous birth, His sinless life, and His eternal glory.  "There is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, the mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah" (2 Nephi 2:8).  Of this I testify in His sacred name, Jesus Christ.  Amen.

With love,

Elder A. Jared Cummings

P.S. I hope you all spend time reflecting on what the Savior has done for you this Easter season.  There is a wonderful video put out by the Church to help us remember His sacrifice.  I invite you all to check it out and to share it. FollowHim.mormon.org