Revelation Through Temple Attendance

(Elder Cummings)

This week was, again, one full of miracles and learning experiences.  We have felt our Savior's love working through us and we have been able to do the things He would have us do.  One of the highlights was definitely the opportunity to go attend the Fresno Temple.

The temple is a wonderful place.  All of them are.  Across the globe, wherever there is a temple the Saints gather together to worship and to learn. 

That is one thing I especially appreciate about the temple--the learning.  In the temple our understanding of the gospel can be expanded and we can receive specific direction for the specific challenges of our lives.

As Elder Ostler and I were in the temple we both felt impressed that we should cut contact with a family we had been teaching.  We had previously decided that we were going to see them one more time, give one last "hurrah," and drop them.  Our more recent visits hadn't gone well and they were not keeping their commitments.  So, trusting in the inspiration we had received, we canceled an appointment and did not call to set up another.

And then the family of nine came to church and stayed for the entire three hour service, loving every minute of it.  Entirely unexpected.  To say more of the blessings that their church attendance has brought, they, and we, were surprised to realize that many of their friends and family members were active members of our congregation.  Entire unexpected.  Because Elder Ostler and I had followed the promptings of the Spirit which we had received in the holy temple the entire family is once again progressing towards baptism, with a stronger fire and new energy from the ward to support them.

God absolutely knew how He could best help His children.  He knew how He could best help us do the same.  Our Heavenly Father is a very real father.  He listens to our prayers.  We can and should speak to Him "as a man would address a present friend" (Teaching of the Prophet Joseph Smith p. 127). 

Heavenly Father is blessing Elder Ostler and I in Pioneer Park East so that we can bless others.  It is exciting.  It is exhilarating!  We are finding, teaching, and baptizing, in His holy name.

Yesterday we were blessed to be able to witness Julie Her's baptism.  We have been working with her for the last two months.  Most of her siblings were baptized last month, and it was truly wonderful to see her follow them in following Christ.  The service was humble and spiritual.  I am grateful to play a part in her continuing conversion.

Hurrah for Israel!

Elder Jared Cummings