In the April 1988 Sunday morning session of conference, I actually felt torn as to what to write about. Two talks, given by Elder Scott and Elder Ashton made me think of what’s happening in our day, as all conference talks often do. Specifically, the fears we experience. But then, I read Pres. Hinckley’s talk on the resurrection, and suddenly everything else faded away.  

Richard G. Scott—To Help a Loved One in Need

He reminded me about our friends and family who are struggling today because of the uncertainties around us, his talk made me wonder how many people are fulfilling their ministering roles with real intent. While all of us are struggling and wondering, and perhaps even worried about the future, are we at the same time feeling concern for our brothers and sisters we have been asked to minister to?

Call or text your ministering families today and just ask how they’re doing.

 

Marvin J. Ashton—While They Are Waiting

This talk focused on fellowshipping excommunicated friends and family. This really involves everyone who needs opportunities to stay involved, so it’s easier for all of us to get back into a fold that never left us.

While we’re in quarantine, isolation is becoming a terrible excluder. Thinking about those who are excommunicated, semi-active, or simply shy, are we reaching out enough that everyone feels checked up on, cared about, not forgotten? What is it going to be like in church when everyone comes back together? What feelings will we feel when we have felt so left-out and isolated during this long time?

My husband and I have had these conversations lately as we ourselves feel kind of left out of everyone else’s loop. We don’t even know if there is a loop to be left out of, or if everyone else feels the same way. Guess it’s time to go make some phone calls….

But, when it comes to losing hope and letting the depression overwhelm us, I read Pres. Hinckley’s talk.

 

Gordon B. Hinckley—The Empty Tomb Bore Testimony

As mortals, it is typical to fear death and the unknown. But as members of the church, we understand more about death, and what comes after, because of what has been revealed to us. With our understanding of death, we should not fear it. What we should fear is the separation from our families and those we truly love.

In this talk, Pres. Hinckley introduces a poem he wrote as he prepared to speak at the funeral of a dear friend. 

http://https://youtu.be/1D1dRZoxg0I?t=17

I repeat the final verse:

There is no death, but only change

With recompense for victory won;

The gift of Him who loved all men,

The Son of God, the Holy One.

Because of Jesus Christ, who must have felt alone much of His life, we will rise again. This hope is overwhelming in its promise. But even more glorious, is that if we use our time well on this earth by serving others—in His name—thereby remembering Him always, we will never be alone or forgotten again. We can be with our families forever, surrounded in love, acceptance, friendship, and eternal joy.

So, as we continue to endure this pandemic, let’s find ways to reach out as we seek to overthrow our own fears. As you do, your fears will melt away and you will feel the “gift of Him who loved all men.”