Molten Sea

We shared the privilege of family home evening with the Contreras family. The night began with the customary meal and spiritual message and ended great with a game called "Animal-Noises" or something like that. We formed a circle around the person in the middle who remained blindfolded. We then briskly walked in a counterclockwise motion if the person in the middle turned clockwise and visa versa. This made the individual completely disoriented when he or she stopped and pointed. The closest person to the pointed finger would then be politely asked to make an animal noise of the person in the middle's liking. After listening intently a guess would be given to ascertain who the noise actually came from. Needless to say it was a blast!

For the lesson portion of the evening we watched a great video about the Temple. It was awesome to see the beauty of the Temple and hear about what goes on in the Temple. During the film one scene really focused on the baptistry of the temple. The 12 statue oxen upheld the baptismal font just like it did in Old Testament times. Symbolism of spiritual things stood all around-- ways in which God tries to communicate to His children. The baptistry was pristine and pure which invites harmony and peace. 

Who can step into the baptistry and not think about the scripture found in 1 Corinthians 15:29? "Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptised for the dead?" In the temple our deceased ancestors can accept the ordinance of baptism vicariously. An ordinance that is required to enter the kingdom of God (John 3:5).

Have you ever wondered what happens to someone who never had the opportunity to be baptised by proper authority? Would God not allow them to enter His presence even if they hadn't been exposed to the Gospel of Jesus Christ? No, there is a greater plan for all of God's children.

As Paul taught the Corinthians, life moves on after death. If any of God's children didn't have the opportunity to accept Jesus Christ they will be taught in the the next life and have the opportunity given to accept Him and His baptism (D&C 138:29-30). Apparently even those who were exposed to the gospel but remained rebellious will be taught. It will be their choice to accept or decline the gospel of course, but if they accept they will receive greater joy than we can imagine. Then it is up to us to be baptized for and in behalf of them. In a very real way we have the opportunity to step into the waters of baptism for them and help them accept Jesus Christ in their lives. What an amazing opportunity! What an incredible plan! I am grateful this privilege has been restored to the earth.

I'll end with the words of Peter "For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit" (1 Peter 4:6).

I love you