Ephesus

There are moments that you look forward to all your life. When I contemplated having my own family, one of the things I looked forward to most was using the Priesthood I hold to bless my children. It is a special privilege and honor to be able to serve my family in this way. It has never been something I have ever taken lightly. It is why I have lived the way I have, seeking the blessings that are available in the service of the Lord.

My son turned 12 on Tuesday. In Latter-Day Saint circles, this is a big one. Turning twelve for young men means that they are given the opportunity to hold the Aaronic Priesthood. As a holder of that Priesthood myself, I was able to confer it on my son.

Words cannot describe my feelings in this matter.

First, that my son would choose such a path is amazing. He's old enough now to realize a portion of the import of such decisions and he takes them seriously. He is now no longer the same. He has chosen a path that will set him apart from his peers forever. This path ultimately leads to the Melchizedek Priesthood and to the temple. What a truly amazing thing...

Then the thought comes regarding this Priesthood. The Priesthood is the authority to act in the name of God. That does not mean we can use it to move mountains and trees and waves. That is done by faith. Faith is a power unto itself. The Priesthood is the authority (literally) to do on earth what God Himself would do if He were here. We stand in His place and act in His name. What a sacred and awesome thing! This divine investiture of authority comes with a heavy responsibility - that of life-long service towards others, study of the scriptures, worthy choices, and a high standard of living and conduct that separates those who are chosen over those who may feel called. We are to be men like Christ.

Finally, I am humbled to be a part of this young man's life. My own father has remarked on occasion that there is little he did on his part to influence us (his children). He says that we came from heaven pretty good and he's just tried not to mess up too badly... He's done a magnificent job (really, Dad. You have. Accept it.) But I think I am starting to understand what he means. My children are mine, but then they're not. They are their own. And they are Christ's. And they are children of the Most High, with divine characteristics and potential. The thought of being a part of all of this glory is quite overwhelming.

I hope I am worthy of the blessings I have received. I hope I am a good example. I so want to be...

As I lay my hands on my children's heads to speak blessings of comfort, of healing, of peace and inspiration, I am overcome by love - love for them and love for the Father who shares this with me - unworthy creature that I am! I can also feel (and it fills my soul with light and glory) the love of our Father for His children - including me.

Ah, I cannot say the least part of what I feel...