If there is
one thing we can learn from the characters that grace the pages of our
scriptures it is that they too were imperfect. Sometimes we tend to remember
those who are deceased only for their good qualities. This is where written
history helps us see things in a better light. Even those exemplary leaders in
the House of Israel had their weaknesses and imperfections.
Herein is
the mercy of God. He favours even the imperfect and makes them His chosen
people. We are perfect examples of that. We were chosen as the elect of God and
assigned to the tribes of the House of Israel before we were even born (see
James Talmage, “Articles of Faith” pp 193-94). We were elected based on our
capacities, our willingness, our faith and our thirst for the truth:
“…the House
of Israel is composed of the spirits from pre-mortal life who there developed a
talent for spirituality, and who are therefore entitled to the blessing of
heaven in this life on a preferential basis.” (Bruce R. McConkie, “Mortal
Messiah Book 3” p 11)
On Judgment
Day, our desires, our faith and our love of God and the truth will be considered
as much as our good deeds. In writing to Romans, Paul told them that Abraham’s
faith was accounted to him for righteousness and that man is justified by
faith, righteous works, and grace (see Romans 4).
The Church
has given us some guidelines to follow when we study about the House of Israel
and consider the covenant people we belong to:
1. Is there any evidence in the
scriptural record that imperfect behaviour was in any way overlooked, condoned,
or excused by the Lord?
2. Can we learn from the faults and
failings of our ancestors as well as from their strengths and successes?
3. Do you see any evidences of growth,
development, repentance, and commitment in the record of the earliest covenant
people?
4. Do the human interest details, such as the rivalry between Rachel and Leah, make it easier or harder for you to believe that God is a loving and patient Father, and that you, too, in spite of your own failings, may become a covenant person?
-
Old
Testament Student Manual Genesis – 2 Samuel p 90
These guidelines suggest one thing very clearly. God is the same
yesterday, today and forever (Mormon 9:9). He cannot look upon sin with the
least degree of allowance so He holds us all to the same standard in that
respect (D&C 1:31). As for the human condition of weakness, there is grace.
I marvel that you would love
Such an imperfect being like me.
With thankfulness, You remember the me
That once walked the clouds with Thee;
That You see who I once used to be,
And value me despite my humanity.
- CATHRYNE ALLEN
(Art: Compassionate Christ by Greg Sargent)
