Susan Coltrin
Elder Neal A. Maxwell, speaking on what seemed to be a deeply personal topic, encouraged each one of us to develop Christ-like attributes through trials and through applying the atoning blood of Jesus Christ, during the Saturday afternoon session of the 167th Semiannual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Elder Maxwell, whose strength and health seem to have made a great turnaround from April's conference, when leukemia was making serious threats to his life, deepened the gratitude there expressed and went on to speak of the wonderful blessings he has received from his recent trials.
'I have been mercifully granted what might be called a 'delay en route.' Whether short or long, it is a wonderful blessing from the Lord!' Elder Maxwell said.
Acknowledging that not all people are so lucky to get such a 'delay en route,' he went on to address the 'why me?' question we all seem to ask at different times in our lives when faced with adversity.
'...What is needed is mortal submission, even when there is no immediate divine explanation. Thus we are to press forward, whatever the length of the near horizon, rejoicing in what awaits us on that horizon,' Elder Maxwell said.
All people face trials, but through our trials it is important to remember that Christ has faced them all, Elder Maxwell said. The terrible suffering of the atonement is why Christ came to earth. Likewise, having this mortal experience and growing through adversity is why each one of us is here.
'Even though our experiences do not even begin to approach our Master's, nevertheless, to undergo this mortal experience is why we, too, are here! Purposely pursuing this 'cause' brings ultimate meaning to our mortal lives,' Elder Maxwell said.
It is important as we endure these trials life inevitably brings us, that we do it meekly and with faith.
'Moreover, partaking of a bitter cup without becoming bitter is likewise part of the emulation of Jesus,' Elder Maxwell said.
Perhaps some 'why me' questions directed at the Lord should be turned to more positive and submissive questions that could create growth.
'Some 'why me' questions, asked amid stress, would be much better as 'what' questions, such as 'what is required of me now?'' Elder Maxwell said.
Elder Maxwell also spoke of how we often endure large trials better than smaller ones.
'Enduring large tests while failing the seemingly small quizzes just won't do. Such shortcomings must be addressed, if we are really serious about becoming more like Jesus,' Elder Maxwell said.
In conclusion, Elder Maxwell reminded us of the importance of becoming like Christ.
'Yes, we need the essential ordinances, but we also need the essential attributes,' Elder Maxwell said.
And if we endure the trials that help us to develop these attributes, we are promised all the Lord has. And, Elder Maxwell said, 'brothers and sisters, there isn't any more!'