What is the ultimate goal in life? The ultimate goal is Exaltation—the highest degree of glory in the Celestial Kingdom.[1] It is the life our Heavenly Father lives. It is endless development, endless progression, and the chance to have spirit children of our own.[2] Joseph Fielding Smith has said this of exaltation and eternal marriage: “The gift promised to those who receive this covenant of marriage and remain faithful to the end, that they shall ‘have no end,’ means that they shall have the power of eternal increase [exaltation]. Only those who have this power will truly ‘know the only wise and true God, and Jesus Christ, whom he hath sent.’ Others may see the Lord and may be instructed by him but they will not truly know him or his Father unless they become like them.”[3] Exaltation and eternal marriage are inextricably linked. You can’t achieve exaltation without eternal marriage. So, for this post, I’m going to focus on the key ingredient needed for eternal marriage. Without it, eternal marriage—even in the House of the Lord—is impossible.
I want you to think of the most exciting thing that has happened in your life—a new job, the birth of a baby, a new car. Hold that thought. Allow the memory to course through you until you can remember exactly how you felt at the time.
Whatever you’re thinking of, I’m sure it was a huge moment in your life…but was it the most important? You probably weren’t thinking of the topic of this post—the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ—as the most exciting thing to happen to you, but I want to assure you that it is just as exhilarating (even more, in my opinion) than that diamond tennis bracelet you received for your anniversary or the epic month-long vacation you took to England. Let’s start by talking about the fulness of times. It’s a great phrase, and I’ve often thought of using it for a book title. You may or may not know exactly what it means, so let’s discuss it as we talk about the restoration. Let’s begin with a story:
What if I don’t make it? The idea paralyzes me. I’ve prepared for this moment, this experience for so long, and the thought of failing, of losing everything I want and dream of, crushes me. My footsteps are soft, but worry weaves through me as I pace the polished wooden planks on the floor. My father is loving, generous, and has given me everything I need to prepare for the journey ahead. As I look around the opulent quarters—my own personal sanctuary—my eyes rest on the learning area. Would I ever study there again? My heart trembles at the thought. My journey will be long and difficult, but more than that…I know not everyone will return. Will I be one of the many who won’t make it home? Frustrated, I close my eyes and pinch the bridge of my nose, drawing in slow, deep breaths. I’m normally so strong, so resilient. I know who I am and have always been focused on the plan. But tonight, I can’t quiet my fears. Without realizing where I’m going, I leave my room. There’s one person who can comfort me, can give me the peace I seek. I wander through a labyrinth of halls and arrive at my destination. I toss a smiling nod to the sentinels stationed at the door to ward off visitors this time of night. But my brothers never stop me from my late-night visits, per His orders. |
AuthorI am a proud member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am not a gospel scholar, but I hope to be one someday. While I’m learning and growing, I hope you join me on my journey for further light and knowledge. Archives
January 2023
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