God’s Eternal Family

I recently heard a clip from Christopher Reeve who in 1996 addressed the Democratic National Convention.  For those of us old enough to remember, Mr. Reeve played Superman (and Clark Kent) in the “Superman” movies from the 1980s.  You may also remember that in 1995 he was thrown from his horse during a jumping competition.  This accident broke two vertebrae in his neck and made him a quadriplegic.  Such a stark contrast for the person who played “the man of steel” on the silver screen. 

In his address, he said the following, “…over the last few years we have heard a lot about something called ‘family values’.  And like many of you, I have struggled to figure out what that means. And since my accident, I've found a definition that seems to make sense. I think it means that we're all family. And that we all have value.”

I have thought a great deal about his statement in the context of the Gospel.  My wife Julie and I recently returned home from an 8-day trip to Africa.  Julie’s sister and her husband have been serving the past 3 years as mission leaders in Sierra Leone.  It was a privilege for us to be there and experience “a day in the life” of the missionaries in that special country.

While there, I would often reflect on the very points Christopher Reeves makes in his convention address.  First, the people of Sierra Leone are God’s children, and He loves them just as much as he loves you and me.  Second, because we are all God’s children, we are spiritual brothers and sisters and should care for and love one another. 

The Lord has stated, “For behold, this is my work and my Glory - to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.”  It is my witness that He wants this for every one of His children – one by one.  I could feel Heavenly Father’s love for the people of Sierra Leone as we would meet and greet them – also, one by one.    

Our dear prophet has taught us the following, “Anytime you do anything that helps anyone—on either side of the veil—take a step toward making covenants with God - you are helping to gather Israel. It is as simple as that”. 

Heavenly Father created “A Covenant Path” that allows anyone who is willing, to return to Him.  It’s possible because He sent the greatest gift we could ever receive, and that being the life, example, ministry, and sacrifice of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  

For me, this trip to Africa was eye-opening and even life changing.  It blessed me with a new perspective as I felt the great love God has for every one of His children.  It is my prayer we can always feel God’s love and remember we are all brothers and sisters in Christ.  May the Lord pour out upon you, and your family, your most righteous desires.  I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.