Patriarchal Blessings

This was a busy and eventful week  -- our visiting Patriarch was here for his yearly visit. Although there was opposition on every side, which reminded me of the scripture in 2 Corinthians 4:8 “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair,” we were successful in the end.  In spite of windy weather, power failures, inoperable gates, cars that could not escape from the parking lot, wild taxi rides, and a bonk on the head, good prevailed.

Although obtacles abounded (time off from work, travel, etc) many faithful members were over-joyed to receive their patriarchal blessings. In 2 Nephi 2:11 it reminds us, “For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things.”  Everyone involved would agree that opposition abounded. This is an opportunity that only comes around about once a year in our remote location.  However, when the joy was seen on the faces of those who had preservered to receive this counsel from the Lord, it was worth all of the difficulties.

In many aspects of our lives we encounter challenges.  On occasion it may be tempting to follow the path of least resistance.  However, by overcoming the challenges we are also richly blessed.  On the hymn, How Firm A Foundation we are reassured that all is well, even in times of difficulty when it says,

Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed,
For I am thy God and will still give thee aid.
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.

The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose
I will not, I cannot, desert to his foes;
That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I’ll never, no never, no never, forsake.  

I hope we all can persevere in the face of opposition – to overcome the bad and embrace the good. May the Lord be with you.

Love

Elder & Sister Segeberg