My Eternal Family

Because my parents were married in one of the Lord's holy temples, I am sealed to my family and I will live with them again after I die. Marriage in the house of the Lord is not "'til death do us part"; it is for eternity.

My wonderful family! Back row: Me, Dad (Kent), Mom (Denna), Harrison
Front row: Audrey, Austin, Derek

The message I've been called to share with others in the Nashville area is a joyful one. I'm grateful and humbled by the opportunity I have to tell others they can live with their families forever. So many are touched by this wonderful news.

I love my family. I can't imagine not being with them after death. I have a lot of good memories with my parents, brothers, and sister. What would be the purpose of life if we couldn't enjoy these memories after death?

I testify that we will live with our families again. The Lord has provided us a way to return to live not only with our Father in Heaven, but with each other. Those who have died before us live in a better place. If we will keep God's commandments and endure to the end, we will receive His greatest blessing—eternal life.

No wonder Mormons are such happy people! In spite of the difficult circumstances we may find ourselves in, we look forward with faith that life after this will be better for us. It will be perfect, and our joy will be full. President Henry B. Eyring taught this truth—

"No one who strives with full faith and heart for the blessings of eternal life will be denied. And how great will be the joy and how much deeper the appreciation then after enduring in patience and faith now." 

What can we do to strengthen our families so that we may qualify for the blessings of eternal life?

I offer two suggestions and two prophetic promises from former LDS Church President Gordon B. Hinckley (1920-2008). First, go to the temple regularly. If you cannot yet go to the temple, prepare yourself to be worthy for the day when you can. Second, study the scriptures—especially the Book of Mormon—daily with your family. President Hinckley taught us there are great blessings associated with these practices—

"I hope that everyone gets to the temple on a regular basis. If we are a temple-going people, we will be a better people. I know your lives are busy. I know that you have much to do. But I make you a promise that if you will go to the house of the Lord, you will be blessed, life will be better for you."

"Without reservation I promise you that if you will read the Book of Mormon, there will come into your life and into your home an added measure of the Spirit of the Lord, a strengthened resolution to walk in obedience to his commandments, and a stronger testimony of the living reality of the Son of God." 
(emphasis added)

How have regular temple attendance and daily scripture study blessed your family? Comment below.