Tender Mercies

This past weekend Thad and I were privileged to spend a few hours in the presence of an Apostle of the Lord. Elder Bednar was in Bakersfield and held several firesides and training's for 5 stakes in the area. Friday evening he spent 2 hours answering the questions of the congregation of young married couples and addressing our concerns. I came away feeling strengthened and at peace about my responsibilities as a mother in these tumultuous times. One thing he said that struck a chord particularly close to my heart, was that our children, this rising generation, are more strong willed and independent than ever before. A fact I've noticed about my own children, and wondered how to tame a manage. But he said they are that way for a reason, and that they have a greater capacity for obedience. Apparently they are gong to need both of those traits in the coming years. While it is an ominous thought; the challenges they will be up against; it was also very encouraging to me to know that they truly came with their willfulness and my job is to turn their strength of spirit to obedience and correct paths.
Thad was also able to attend a training with the Bishops, Elders Quorum Presidents and stake auxiliary presidents on Saturday morning. But most precious was the time we were able to spend with him on Sunday morning. President Taylor arranged for Elder Bednar to come to Mom and Dads house and visit with them before their Sunday meetings. He spoke with Dad and Mom while the rest of us sat and listened. The spirit in that room was more powerful and tangible than I have ever felt. I've spent 3 days trying to find words to adequately describe the experience but all I can say was that the Apostles are absolutely filled with the Power of God and it can be felt emanating from them. There are many accounts in the old testament of crowds just following the Savior around the countryside. Leaving whatever they were doing before and just following Him. I can say that I understand that now. You wanted to follow Elder Bednar around just to feel of that spirit. Every time we've discussed it since that feeling settles over us and I hope it never goes away. Elder Bednar also gave Dad a blessing before he left and there is no doubt in my mind that the promises made will be fulfilled, and that this meeting and blessing happened because of the Lord's will. It was a witness to me of how mindful the Lord is of each of our needs and desires and answers those in ways we could never hope to ask for. Of all the places in the world he could have been, or any of the people he could have been visiting, the Lord saw fit to send Elder Bednar to bless my Dad that morning. He knows us by name and loves us and has a unique plan for each of us.