JULY 7-13: Great Shall Be Their Reward and Eternal Shall Be Their Glory
Come Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants 76
Doctrine and Covenants 76 is often referred to as 'The Vision'. It is a profound vision of what is after this mortal life - degrees of glory fit to welcome all. John 14:2 records Jesus's promise, "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you."
What do you want your mansion in heaven to look like? I have so many possibilities! A little hobby of mine is drawing up house plans. It started when I was a young girl raking leaves in the yard; I'd rake them into lines for walls, leaving openings for doors and windows, add piles for beds and other furniture. It escalated from there.
I now live in a home that I designed. Is it my 'dream home'? Well, it is barely within my earthly budget, and getting beyond my ability to upkeep. Downsizing looks enticing. I've started on some designs, seriously cutting back on the size and scope of what my dream house is, although I still want it of superior quality with unique furnishings that are comfortable, yet captivating, and spaces where I can engage in all of my interests. And if it cleans itself and has delicious meals ready to eat at any moment, well that sounds like heaven.
Now as much as I can dream about a perfect home, I do believe it is much more than a house of walls and gardens. What it must be is a place where I feel I belong, and be with those I love. Maybe I need to build it in a different way.
Well Done - The Afters
In the bible we learn that narrow is the way, narrow is the gate that leads to heaven. Then we may come to think that a narrow path requires us to always act perfectly. But guess what: we can never be perfect. Jesus is the 'narrow way'. Our walk is to take His hand, let him bring us back when we get distracted and inclined to wander. He opens the gate for us, and begs us to enter, even as imperfect as we may be, for He will perfect us.
The Narrow Way - Stephanie Gretzinger
We look forward to each batch of new hymns that will be added to our new hymnbook. Our children have declared this next song as one of their new favorites. It easily locks into my head and offers peace. This recording requires your own voices, but gives you the lyrics to follow.
Welcome Home - New LDS Hymnal Piano & Lyrics
Many years ago I learned this next song from a book of Folk Songs, and it quickly became a favorite. It speaks to my heart. Years after that, the Tabernacle Choir recorded it, and others have followed. That has made me contemplate what gospel message it might convey. One thought is that I am free to go out and find my calling, for that a a blessed goal; but there will always be someone waiting for me at home when I am finished.
Homeward Bound - BYU Vocal Point ft. The All-American Boys Chorus
What do you hear in these songs? Do you feel reassured that there is a place ready to welcome you.
Yet let me reiterate Beetlejuice, "Life is short. Afterlife is a long, long time." We need not hurry to get there. It will wait for you to follow your callings here.