President Ezra Taft Benson & Chapter 1: The Great Commandment -- Love the Lord

Sister Sheri Dew taught, "Studying the life of a prophet is more, much more, than simply recounting events.  It is an opportunity to see the hand of the Lord in action as He prepares and tutors a man to be ready when the moment comes that He anoints him as His mouthpiece on the earth."

This year we have the exciting opportunity to study and learn about President Ezra Taft Benson.  As I have studied and learned about his life this week, I have developed such a love for him and his teachings.  I encourage each of you to take some time to learn about President Benson's life from the following links:

• The Life and Ministry of Ezra Taft Benson
• Prophets of the Restoration: Ezra Taft Benson
• Serving Church and Country: President Ezra Taft Benson

This week we will also be discussing Chapter 1:  The Great Commandment -- Love the Lord.  I love President Benson's teaching, "To love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength is all-consuming and all-encompassing.  It is no lukewarm endeavor.  It is total commitment to our very being -- physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually -- to a love of the Lord.  The breadth, depth, and height of this love of God extend into every facet of one's life."  Please come to Relief Society prepared to discuss what this means to you and one thing you can do to be more fully committed to a love of the Lord.  See you then!

Stephanie Johnson