Mormon Love
"In 1840 the Prophet Joseph sent an epistle to the Twelve wherein he taught that 'love is one of the chief characteristics of Deity, and ought to be manifested by those who aspire to be the sons of God. A man filled with the love of God, is not content with blessing his family alone, but ranges through the whole world, anxious to bless the whole human race' (History of the Church, 5: 227).
"As we reach out in love to those around us, we fulfill the other half of the great commandment to 'love thy neighbour as thyself' (Galatians 5:14)."
Ref. (Joseph B Wirthlin, "The Great Commandment," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 28)
When I was called to be the compassionate service leader for a sprawling, highly inactive military ward five years ago I remember turning to the scriptures for help overcoming my fear of reaching out to the many strangers I would have to serve. I came across this scripture in Moroni 7:
QUOTE |
47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him. 48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen. |
Love is such a wonderful thing and has so many levels. I have a gift of loving people naturally, which I am so thankful for. I try to find something good in everybody and I know at times it is hard, but it is always worth the try.
Enos is my favorite example of this type of love. He went from being forgiven of his sins, in which God showed His love for Enos, and then turned that love towards his family, then his friends, and that was not enough...he was so filled with it that he even prayed for his enemies. After learning of him, the concept of "Love your enemies" became a bit clearer on how to attain that ability.
Not really, I am not married and don't have that special someone in my life as yet but I think is cool when the words are said with true meaning.