Random Thoughts
It has been a couple of weeks since I shared my thoughts. Many things have happened in the world that have distracted me. As a Latter-day Saint in America, I have been troubled by the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the passing of President Russell M. Nelson, and today, the attack on my fellow saints in Michigan. As the Sections we have been reading in the Doctrine and Covenants have not excited my mind, I will share my thoughts and perspectives on the foregoing events.
The passing of President Nelson was somewhat expected. We all witnessed the decline of his physical health while marveling at the sharpness of his mind and his dedication to his prophetic calling and mission. He will be missed. His message and legacy will continue. I bear my witness that I have a testimony of the counsel and teachings he articulated so well. I thought it was curious that we heard many heartfelt prayers on behalf of his family, but I did not hear any prayers or mentions for President Oaks, who will have the mantle of a prophet rest upon him in the coming days. I will pray for him.
The acts of violence in the Charlie Kirk murder and the attack on the church in Michigan will change the trajectory of American culture for many years to come. We are seeing evil in action. These acts are the fruits of extreme ideology. We still know nothing about the monster that attacked the church, but I am confident that we will learn that the cauldrons of hate that are stirred by social media are a factor.
We must not allow ourselves to become embroiled in contention. However, we cannot remain silent and uninvolved either. This is where the teachings of a prophet must be put into practice. We must be peacemakers. We must be as wise as serpents and harmless as doves. We must think celestial and attend the temple as often as possible. We must be able to receive revelation for ourselves and learn to hear the voice of the Lord. We must arm ourselves with the word of God and stand in holy places.
So, what can we do in times of trouble? We can love our enemies and pray for those who criticize and belittle our faith in Jesus Christ. We can choose a higher and holier way.
Stay strong and remain faithful until Jesus comes again.