Love Factor

3 Nephi 12 – Jesus calls the Twelve and then teaches the Nephites similar to his Sermon on the Mount.

I was in a class where we studied this chapter and I have written all over my margins. The people had laws before, but Christ is fine tuning them here. What has changed? He puts in the love factor, aka civility and respect for others. I wrote in the margin: “Beatitudes are building blocks to heaven.” Also, “How to endure to the end.”

As I apply these (Beatitudes) in my life, what do I change? Do I change? I know the answer to this is a resounding YES!

Before I turned back and was converted to the gospel and made corrections in my life, it was a very me-centered existence. I can't think of anything I may have done to go out of my way to help someone else. I have to say those were miserable years. How is it that in serving ourselves, we can be so miserable? Doesn't that seem a bit backwards? There are numerous items in this chapter that say it is no

• If we're poor in spirit (aka humble), we gain the kingdom of heaven.
• If we mourn, we'll be comforted.
• Hunger and thirst after righteousness, we're filled with the Holy Ghost
• If we're merciful, we'll obtain mercy.
• If we're pure in heart, we'll see God
• If we're peacemakers, we'll be called God's children
• If we're persecuted for Christ's sake, we'll inherit the kingdom of God, have joy.

Love is the factor that changed when the Savior came to earth. He exhibited it numerous times. The one that is the most evident is how he treated women. Prior to Christ's coming to earth, women were “owned”, aka property. I am so very grateful for this change in the Christian world and I ache for women who live in the world where they are still owned. I'm also grateful for the commission to love others and serve others. There is no joy greater than being the answer to someone else's prayer. There are days when I hit the mark. That's when the spirit testifies strongly to me that things are working for me. That the Lord is pleased with my efforts and will continue to guide me.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is true and brings us joy. This chapter tells us how to do it.