Elders,
Here we are again. I just finished listening to the Jazz lose to Houston in the NBA playoffs. It is never easy to see your team’s season end. The speculating can begin as to whether or not the season was a success or not. The talking heads will talk and debate over every trivial thing. Some will say that Jazz are better than last year and others will point out that they went out of the playoffs earlier than last year so the season is a failure. We need more shooters, more X, Y, and Z. It seems to be what we do best…
Last Sunday in Sunday School – and throughout all last week, we celebrated the final week of our Savior’s life. There were scenes that were exciting and cheerful. Some were painful and poignant. Others were distressing and depressing. In the end He truly was crucified and three days later arose from the grave – the “firstfruits of them that slept”. He became our Savior and Redeemer. He paid the price that nobody else was capable of. He did it for you, for me, for everyone.
What is interesting is that just like the end of the season for the Jazz, the Savior’s life was scrutinized and dissected. There were those that believed in the resurrection and the good news and saw the Savior’s life as a success. Others criticized him for pushing too hard, going too far to disrupt, and throwing his life away. Others saw him as a fake and fraud as well. Throughout the intervening 2000 years, the talking heads haven’t stopped speaking. They search to prove by intellect and reason any number of theories concerning the Savior.
What are we to do? There are so many conflicting opinions and messages. We are inundated by “information”. Jesus gave the answer himself. He said to “Come follow me” and do the things he said / did. As we do the things he said and try to develop a relationship with Him, we will come to know him, find true happiness and joy, and ultimately receive life eternal. He sent the comforter to “teach us all things”. We need to use all our faculties to answer the questions we have, but also add the Holy Ghost into the mix. We can feel and know the truth about the Savior despite all the noise and confusion.
Was the Jazz season a success? I don’t know. It was fun. I think they made progress, but have a ways to go. Was Jesus all that he and his followers claimed? Yes, he was that and more. I’m grateful for my testimony of his life and mission. My relationship with him is growing and I couldn’t be happier. Ultimately, this Jazz season will fade and forgotten but I hope that my feelings for the Savior never fade or dim – that I can continue to grow my relationship with him.
This Sunday we get to hear from Nick Bassett, not as Gospel Doctrine teacher, but as our Ward Temple and Family History Leader. He is going to help motivate and instruct us in the possibilities of Family History. Come hungry to learn about Family History. It will be a great discussion and learning opportunity.
ALSO, after the block on Sunday (28th) we will have “Sunday Snacks”. Bring a simple treat to share and spend some time with friends and neighbors in the cultural hall. It will be a fun opportunity to meet some of our newer neighbors and strengthen ties with long-time friends.
May 2nd we have an Elder’s Quorum activity over at the clubhouse. Mildred Barlow is going to share “Her Life, Laughter, & Learning”. The dinner and program will be at the clubhouse Thursday at 7:00pm. Please contact either Doug Moore 801-231-2636 or Scott DuVall 801-808-6505 to RSVP and get a food assignment.
There are many in our quorum with challenges and problems – health and otherwise. Use your skills as priesthood holders and ministers to lift and bless the lives of those around you. Pray for them. Minister to them.
Thank you for all you do. We have a wonderful quorum. You Elders are the best.
Thanks,
President Oldroyd
801-573-6828