A Broken Covenant

This topic makes me emotional. Forgive me. 

A dinner table is a place of gathering. A place of laughter, conversation, guidance, and discussion. For years I have sat with my family, in-laws, friends, and my spouse at this gathering spot. These are cherished memories. Memories that I hope encapsulate the eternities. 

God in His mercy and love, provided us the opportunity to become like him. For life to exist, for life to persist beyond the grave. What does this mean? That my family can be together forever. The power behind that phrase is real. I can always be with my loved ones. We can have our seats at the dinner table forever. 

But we must be faithful.

We must keep our covenants and honor them.

We must be 100% responsible.

There is an empty seat at the table. It is reserved for a gentle person. One that never raises their voice, one that sacrifices their time selflessly, one that is thoughtful and considerate. 

But they cannot come to this table. They have lost their reservation. In essence, they have lost their family. I cannot bring them to the table, they have to come themselves. 

But they cannot. Because their covenant is broken and they have forfeited the promise.

Temple covenants do save families. I believe that. I HAVE to believe that. For the one who is missing from our table. Elder Whitney taught: "The Shepherd will find his sheep. They were his before they were yours". At different times in my life, I have felt the need to be the catalyst that brings the one back. I do not know how yet, but I am trying to remain faithful to my own covenants in hopes that their testimony will glimmer again. That they will arise from inactivity and meet us at the dinner table.

I forever will hold that hope.

Next Weeks Topic: Repentance and Forgiveness