I was discussing politics with my son this past month and we spoke about the pluses and minuses of current events and the attributes that make a qualified leader. One can talk all they want about, “what if…” but in reality all one can do is study the issues and individuals, actively be involved vocally and demonstrate conviction of one’s beliefs by voting. We also discussed various countries that we have visited and their governments that we have seen first hand and concluded how blessed we are to live in a country where there is not a dictatorship. We are fortunate that in the United States there is a system of checks and balances in place where one individual doesn’t have all the power and control.
As we spoke further our conversation turned to the gospel and the difficulties Church members encounter who live outside our country. The thought came to us that the family unit was the first form of government placed on the earth and remains so even today. The political scene around you does influence your way of life no matter what country you reside in. But when you go home at night and close the door your family unit is all that matters. It is stronger and more influential than any outside influence if a righteous environment exists and righteous principles are taught. Can you imagine what would happen in the world if every home taught and lived gospel principles and love abounded for all family members?
“The Lord works from the inside out. The world works from the outside in. The world would take people out of the slums. Christ takes the slums out of the people, and then they take themselves out of the slums. The world would mold men by changing their environment. Christ changes men, who then change their environment. The world would shape human behavior, but Christ can change human nature.” Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign July 1980.
Our homes should be a safe haven of acceptance and love, a library of learning both secular and spiritual, a house of prayer and peace, a place of justice, mercy and fairness with Christ-like communication, a place of refuge no matter the political atmosphere around you. Your culture needs to reflect gospel culture not the political culture you are in. This concept is becoming more apparent as errant behavior is becoming more acceptable in the world even among our political leaders.
Joseph B. Wirthlin stated in the Ensign, May, 2000 issue, “The gospel gives us that harbor of enduring safety and security. The living prophet and the apostles today are as lighthouses in the storm. Steer towards the light of the restored gospel and the inspired teaching of those who represent the Lord on earth.” That wise counsel was given eight years ago and is even more applicable today.
As you establish your family and start traditions rely on your gospel understanding to do so. Your family unit will become the most powerful influence in your children’s lives…remember it was designed and given to us by our Father in Heaven who knew where his spirit children would be best taught the principles they needed in order to return to him.
