Legacies

We just finished watching a video about Emma for a combined Priesthood/Relief Society meeting, naturally including a lot of stuff from church history.  Especially with our trip to Bethlehem this last week, I got thinking about the heritage that I enjoy.  I know that the Lord is aware of me, but sometimes I wonder how I fit into the big picture.  Think about it this way:

Studying here in Jerusalem this semester, particularly the Old Testament, has reiterated to me my connection with the House of Israel.  I belong to a line of royalty and spiritual favor, closely watched and guided by the Lord.  As if that isn't enough, I descend from the tribe of Ephraim, granted some of the choicest blessings that the Lord could give in the gathering of said house during the last days.  I have been granted the privilege of possessing the priesthood authority of the Lord.  Cool, eh?

This movie we watched reminded me of the great heritage I can appreciate as a descendant of faithful church members.  The early days of the Church were full of difficult circumstances that stretched far beyond what I have ever had to bear; and these people are my ancestors!  They made it through some tough stuff, including the trip to Utah, and now I enjoy the fruits of what they sewed.  I honor them for the sacrifices they made.

Lastly I write about my connection to the Savior.  We visited Bethlehem and are celebrating His birth as we begin our study of the New Testament this week.  But it wouldn't mean anything without the spiritual legacy He has left every one of the Father's children.  As fallen sons of Adam we deserve no inheritance--no place in the kingdom of God, no part in His glory.  Yet through the Atonement we can be forgiven and, as Paul said, become "joint heirs" with Christ.  Abinadi explains that those who take the Savior's name upon them (i.e. those that make and keep sacred covenants) are His offspring, His seed--coupled with our relationship as literal children of God the Father, indeed we could ask for no better lineage!  Children of the Highest, and offspring of the Lord of Lords!  What more could I ask for?

With that in mind I return to my original thought: do I actually fit into the big picture?  Is God really guiding my life, and does He have a hand in my past and my future?  Maybe, just maybe ;)