“Family and Rebuilding,” New Era, May 2016
Family and Rebuilding
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Second Counselor in the First Presidency
Photograph by Church Publishing Services
In Praise of Those Who Save
“Families are not just meant to make things run more smoothly here on earth and to be cast off when we get to heaven. Rather, they are the order of heaven. ……
“But strong marriage and family relationships do not happen just because we are members of the Church. They require constant, intentional work. …
“Whatever problems your family is facing, whatever you must do to solve them, the beginning and the end of the solution is charity, the pure love of Christ. …
“… Pride is one of the biggest reasons marriages and families struggle. …
“Even when you are not at fault—perhaps especially when you are not at fault—let love conquer pride.
“… We all can be saviors of strong families. …
“As we emulate the Savior’s love, He will surely bless and prosper our righteous efforts to save our marriages and strengthen our families.”
He Will Place You on His Shoulders and Carry You Home
“It matters not how completely ruined our lives may seem. … Even those who are without hope … can be rebuilt. …
“… The sheep is worthy of divine rescue simply because it is loved by the Good Shepherd. …
“Our Savior, the Good Shepherd, knows and loves us. He knows and loves you. …
“Because He loves you, He will find you. He will place you upon His shoulders, rejoicing. …
“So what must we do?
“His invitation is simple:
“‘Turn … to me’ [Joel 2:12].
“‘Come unto me’ [Matthew 11:28].
“‘Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you’ [D&C 88:63]. …
“It requires a little faith. But do not despair. If you cannot muster faith right now, begin with hope. …
“As we increase in faith, we also must increase in faithfulness. …
“Obedience is the lifeblood of faith. …
“You may feel that your life is in ruins. … But … if you will only lift up your heart to the Savior of the world, He will find you. …
“… Our loving Heavenly Father can and will rebuild us. His plan is to build us into something far greater than what we were—far greater than what we can ever imagine.”