Hello everyone this week has been a great week! A child of God has entered the waters of baptism! Kenneth Villasor. It was good. But, there are many more to come in the next few weeks. Around 4-8 depending on how many keep their commitments and such. So it's been good but it's only gonna keep getting better!
So, this morning I had a wonderful personal study. Its about the Sermon on the Mount that Jesus gave to the saints. It's a wonderful text with so much to learn from. We learn here what it really means to be perfect and how to do it. Matthew chapters 5, 6, 7 are what is called the blueprint to perfection. We obviously will realize how far off the mark we are. But, it gives us an idea of where we need to be. The Law of Moses given before, was fulfilled in Christ. From anger and adultery, to judging others, and putting first the kingdom of God. Christ is commanding us and telling us the way. Not only does he tell us but he shows us throughout the rest of his life.
It's all about humble service to others. Worrying more about others than yourselves. Always making sure that you are doing the right thing.
He says in: Matthew 5:
19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
He gives us the commandments:
27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
This is not easy. The list goes on this is only a select few. We quote also the Book of Mormon (2 Nephi 31:20) to show that this is the way.
21 And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
I know that this is true. Heavenly Father has high expectations for all of us but through the royal and holy blood of Jesus Christ, we can be cleansed. If we will but follow him and do and be what he wants and expects of us. He is a God of mercy and also a God of justice. I know that as we search his words we will know what to do. We will receive the guidance needed and as well as correction needed if so be. I know that he lives and loves each of us. The atonement is always available to all of us. May we all take that next step toward perfection and next step to our exaltation in in his Kingdom. It is possible.
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-Elder Heaton
Philippines Bacolod Mission
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