Elder Ballard wrote a book that we study as missionaries, it is called Our Search for Happiness. It is all about what we believe as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I love that book because it is written for people who are not members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints so they can understand what we believe.
Here is an excerpt from his book.
“[O]ne of the most cherished tenets of our faith has to do with honoring religious diversity. As our Church’s first president, Joseph Smith, taught: ‘We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.’ (Articles of Faith of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 11.)I am grateful for the efforts of Elder Ballard in building understanding with those of other faiths. I appreciate the example that he is of showing respect for all people because I know that that was what the Savior taught.
“We really do believe that. Just as we claim the right to worship as we choose, we believe [others] have the right to worship—or to not worship—as [they] see fit. All of our interpersonal relationships should be built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and appreciation. But that shouldn’t prevent us from sharing deeply held religious feelings with each other. Indeed, we may find that our [religious and] philosophical differences add flavor and perspective to our relationships, especially if those relationships are built on true values, openness, respect, trust, and understanding. Especially understanding.” M. Russell Ballard
Below is a video excerpt from one of his General Conference addresses, in it he talks about his love for the Bible and for the Savior, I know that as I listen to his words my testimony of the Savior is strengthened.
No comments:
Post a Comment