I imagine that every
person on earth has been affected in some
way by the destructive spirit of contention,
resentment, and revenge. Perhaps there are even
times when we recognize this spirit in ourselves. When we feel hurt,
angry, or envious, it is quite easy to judge
other people, often assigning dark motives to their
actions in order to justify our own
feelings of resentment. Of course, we know
this is wrong. The doctrine is clear. We all depend on the Savior. None of us can be
saved without Him. Christ's Atonement is
infinite and eternal. Forgiveness for our sins
comes with conditions. We must repent, and we must
be willing to forgive others. Jesus taught:
"Forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not ... [stands] condemned
before the Lord; for there remaineth in
him the greater sin," and "Blessed are the merciful:
for they shall obtain mercy." May I add a footnote here? When the Lord requires
that we forgive all men, that includes, of course,
forgiving ourselves. This topic of judging
others could actually be taught in a two-word sermon. When it comes to hating,
gossiping, ignoring, ridiculing, holding grudges,
or wanting to cause harm, please apply the following: Stop it!
It's that simple. We simply have to
stop judging others and replace judgmental
thoughts and feelings with a heart full of love
for God and His children. God is our Father. We are His children. We are all brothers and sisters. As members of The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, wherever
we may be, let us be known as people who
have love one to another. Remember, heaven is filled with
those who have this in common: They are forgiven. And they forgive. Lay your burden at
the Savior's feet. Let go of judgment. Allow Christ's Atonement to
change and heal your heart. Love one another. Forgive one another. The merciful will obtain mercy. Of this I testify in the name
of the One who loved so well and so completely that
He gave His life for us, His friends--in the sacred
name of Jesus Christ, amen.