7
But little children are
holy, being sanctified through the atonement of Jesus Christ;
and this is what the scriptures mean.
Conference
4/12-Dallin H. Oaks
Protect
The Children
Even
in rich nations little children and youth are impaired by neglect.
Children growing up in poverty have inferior health care and
inadequate educational opportunities. They are also exposed to
dangerous environments in their physical and cultural surroundings
and even from the neglect of their parents. Elder Jeffrey R.
Holland recently shared the experience of an LDS police officer. In
an investigation he found five young children huddled together and
trying to sleep without bedding on a filthy floor in a dwelling where
their mother and others were drinking and partying. The apartment had
no food to relieve their hunger. After tucking the children into a
makeshift bed, the officer knelt and prayed for their protection. As
he walked toward the door, one of them, about six, pursued him,
grabbed him by the hand, and pleaded, “Will you please adopt me?”8
We
remember our Savior’s teaching as He placed a little child before
His followers and declared:
“
And
whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
“
But
whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it
were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and
that he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew
18:5–6).
When
we consider the dangers from which children should be protected, we
should also include psychological abuse. Parents or other caregivers
or teachers or peers who demean, bully, or humiliate children or
youth can inflict harm more permanent than physical injury. Making a
child or youth feel worthless, unloved, or unwanted can inflict
serious and long-lasting injury on his or her emotional well-being
and development.9 Young
people struggling with any exceptional condition, including
same-gender attraction, are particularly vulnerable and need loving
understanding—not bullying or ostracism.10
With
the help of the Lord, we can repent and change and be more loving and
helpful to children—our own and those around us.
Apply
The
Relief society Theme states:”We are women of faith, virtue, vision,
and charity who...Dedicate ourselves to strengthening marriages,
families, and homes.”
There
are children in need all around us. Reach out to those near you and
help them. Then use your talents and abilities to bless the lives of
as many children as you can. Follow
the example of the Savior and see that they feel loved. Strengthen
families, beginning with your own family. The best solution is to
be Christlike. Kindness, gentleness, patience and caring go a long
way in nurturing and protecting children. Teach them what is right.
Give them opportunities to grow and play and develop their talents.
Hymns
96-
Dearest Children God Is Near You
304-
Teach Me To Walk In The Light
Children
301
Hymnal- 2 Children Songbook-I Am A Child Of God
No comments:
Post a Comment