Relief Society Lesson Sunday, February 2nd 2014

Today's lesson was given by Sister Marty Rozeski. Each of us, no matter who we are, or where we serve must make the most out of each opportunity that comes.  The fruit of our labors can heal the world, and sisters, in the process they can heal us. 

The lesson was taken from a talk given by Mary Ellen Smoot, The R.S. General President, at the R.S. General Meeting in 1999.  At that conference she presented The Relief Society Declaration.  This declaration was approved by the Prophet, and the Quorum of the twelve.  

We are beloved spirit daughters of God, and our lives have meaning, purpose, and direction:  Sister Smoot says: “We know we have and always will exist.  We know we have been sent to earth to gain experience and prove ourselves.  The decisions we make are vital if we are to gain eternal life and exaltation.  We know that this estate is important, and this understanding gives meaning, purpose, and direction in our lives.  Ultimately all of us want to learn our lessons well and return to our loving Heavenly Father.”

As a worldwide sisterhood, we are united in our devotion to Jesus Christ, our Savior and Exemplar:  Sister Smoot:  “We accept the Savior as the Only Begotten Son of our H.F.  We know that through him we will be redeemed and resurrected.     ‘We talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ we preach of Chris.’”  (2 Ne. 25:26)

Dedicate ourselves to strengthening marriages, families, and homes:  Sister Smoot:  “We understand that the home is the basic unit created by God for us to learn in and serve in.  Spending time with our family is top priority.  We need to look inside in order to be kind and loving and forgiving to family members.  We are to encourage our children to embrace the gospel.”

Stand for truth and righteousness:  Sister Smoot: “We speak out to stop the flowing tide of filth and corruption that is a plaque in our society.  Sisters who know right from wrong stand firm on the Lord’s side, making choices that set them apart from the rest of the world as they fully monitor the family’s use of television programs, dress modestly, and refrain from watching any films that glorify violence and immoral behavior.”

Sustain the priesthood as the authority of God on earth:  Sister Smoot:  “We rejoice as each child is blessed, each child is baptized, as we partake of the sacrament and are set apart for Church callings …  We are grateful for priesthood blessings that light our way and give direction and hope. “

Rejoice in the blessings of the temple, understand our divine destiny, and strive for exaltation: Sister Smoot:  “Sisters who seek to make and keep their covenants and do work for their kindred dead, in the process find their own loads lifted and their power to resist temptation fortified.”