Many times, as people get on in years, they begin to wonder and worry a little more about that “enduring to the end” thing. Why? Because the body and mind can start to slow down and it’s not as easy to be as active as you’d like. So what all is involved in enduring to the end?
Well, breathing is always a good place start. Okay, sorry, my last blog has apparently affected my brain. Who knew it was contagious?
Okay, seriously – enduring to the end is not as complicated as one might think. There are different responsibilities for different seasons in life. As a child, your whole concentration is focused on crawling, walking, talking, education (both secular and religious) and serious play time. Young adults study in college, learn more of the gospel and serve missions or in church callings which further their eternal progression and begin the hunt for their professions. Adults spend their time studying the gospel, working, family life, raising children, temple work and moving one ward member after another in and out of homes (none of which is in any particular order of importance).
As we get into the twilight of our lives, we start to slow down and wonder what the Lord has in mind for us now. Genealogy, family history, personal histories, tutoring and loving of grandchildren, solidifying our marriages in a cohesive eternal unit and studying the gospel at the higher levels. We must, throughout our lives stay on that eternal path, “enduring” it as the brethren have said.
But look around us and see this beautiful world we live in. The skies are vast and beautiful. The mountains tall and majestic, blanketed in fields of flowers, plants and tall pine trees pointing toward the heavens. The oceans sweep across tens of thousands of miles teeming with life. Life is a miracle in and of itself. As you grow closer to your Father in Heaven, as your spiritual gifts are enhanced, as you listen more intently to what you must do, life literally explodes into a kaleidoscope of color, fragrance and beauty.
Yes, there are still terrorists and criminals running around attempting to do as much damage as possible. Yes, the earth mourns the wickedness which covers her lands and seas. Yes, people are thoughtless and often cruel – but these will last for but a moment. For the Lord is winning this pitched battle for our souls. More stand with us than with them. There is greater beauty than wickedness in this world. There are greater beauties, rewards, love and hope awaiting us than our mortal minds could ever comprehend. And all we have to do is endure? With the love of good family and friends as well as the guidance of the heavens, it can be done.