Turning our Hearts, Binding Family Ties

Thank you Jenn Volper for being our substitute teacher Sunday. Jenn taught a powerful lesson on the greatest power we are offered here on earth; the power to bind in heaven what is bound on earth- the Sealing Power of Elijah.

The lesson begins describing the remarkable event of the dedication of the first temple of the last dispensation. After much sacrifice the saints completed the unimaginable and the Kirtland temple was ready for dedication. Joseph Smith gave the dedicatory prayer which he had received through revelation and where he described some of the blessings that would be poured out on those who come worthily to God's temples. After the prayer, the choir sang "The Spirit of God" and the congregation participated in the "Hosannah Shout" "with such power as seemed almost sufficient to raise the roof from the building". Everyone sensed a divine presence and some even experienced heavenly manifestations. Later that evening while the Prophet assembled with some 400 priesthood holders in the temple, they heard a noise like a mighty rush of wind which prompted the congregation to simultaneously stand. Joseph declared to the congregation that they were in the midst of a host of angels.

Jenn made the point that this manifestation of heavenly hosts was not unlike what transpired at Christ's birth. An event so incredible, so powerful, so important to all of mankind that the heavens could not help but burst forth with joy.

Among the awesome events of that day in the Kirtland temple, was the appearance of Christ Himself to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. After Christ had given His approval of the temple, Joseph and Oliver had three separate visions where "ancient prophets appeared to them and restored priesthood keys necessary for the latter-day work of the Lord". One of these visions was so important it had been prophesied by the ancient prophet Malachi and again by Jesus Christ. That was the coming of the ancient prophet Elijah, to restore the keys of sealing and the power to bind in heaven and make a heavenly law, what is bound on earth.

Jenn led a discussion on how this sealing power manifests the Lord's mercy for us. Sisters also shared their feelings regarding what the sealing power means to them. Those who have physically lost children or grandchildren through death, take comfort in the promise of their loved ones being sealed to them so long as they keep their covenants. Those who seem to have temporarily lost their children spiritually can also take comfort in the same promise. Because of Elijah's return to earth, family units can be bound in heaven.

Jenn also led a discussion about how important it is that we turn our hearts to our family members who have gone before us. We talked about how family members who have passed on are still very much connected to us. We heard a moving account of how someone knew a deceased family member is aware of and aiding in a family's current crisis. We need our deceased ancestors and they need us. The turning of our hearts to them will prepare us for the Second Coming of the Lord and ultimately save us.