Days Never to Be Forgotten
Gary E. Stevenson, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Elder Stevenson invites members to embrace upcoming opportunities to share the gospel and serve others.
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Topics
Reflect on the Foundational Decade
Elder Stevenson reflects on the decade from 1820 to 1830, a period marked by pivotal events in the history of the Church, including the First Vision, the translation of the Book of Mormon, and the restoration of the priesthood.
These were days never to be forgotten.
The young prophet conversed with the angel Moroni, translated the gold plates, and published the Book of Mormon!Key Points:
- The decade from 1820 to 1830 was foundational for the Church.
- Significant events such as the First Vision and the restoration of the priesthood occurred.
- These events continue to influence the Church today.
- Share a personal experience where you felt guided or inspired by a foundational event in Church history.
- Reflect on a time when you felt a strong connection to the early history of the Church.
- Discuss how learning about the early events of the Church has strengthened your faith.
Embrace the Opportunities of Our Decade
Elder Stevenson anticipates a decade of historic events and opportunities for Church members to share the gospel and serve others, drawing parallels with the Church's foundational decade.
May I be so bold as to suggest that this year we have commenced a decade that may prove to be as momentous as any that has followed that unparalleled founding decade almost two centuries ago.
These upcoming moments will provide members of the Church everywhere with increased opportunities to share the glad tidings of the gospel of Jesus Christ through word and deed.Key Points:
- The next decade will be filled with significant events, including temple dedications and the Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City.
- Members will have increased opportunities to serve and share the gospel.
- The Church will commemorate the bicentennial of its organization in 2030.
- Describe a time when you participated in a significant Church event that strengthened your testimony.
- Reflect on how you plan to share the gospel in your daily life during this upcoming decade.
- Consider how you might prepare to participate in upcoming Church events.
Understand the Meaning of Glad Tidings
Elder Stevenson explains the deeper meaning of "glad tidings," linking it to the gospel of Jesus Christ, which brings joy and happiness in this life and the next.
Glad tidings conveys much more than that. He explained that this phrase comes from the original Greek word euangelion, which literally means the "good news" or the "gospel."
This message of the glad tidings of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the most important message on earth.Key Points:
- The phrase "glad tidings" is rooted in the Greek word for "gospel."
- The gospel of Jesus Christ is the source of true joy and happiness.
- Sharing the gospel is a central part of God's plan for His children.
- Share a moment when you felt the joy of the gospel in your life.
- Discuss how understanding the meaning of "glad tidings" has influenced your missionary efforts.
- Reflect on how you can bring glad tidings to those around you.
Encourage the Rising Generation
Elder Stevenson addresses the youth and young adults, encouraging them to embrace their unique role in the Church and to prepare for a decade of spiritual growth and service.
You have the strength and capacity to be disciples of Christ in an unprecedented way.
Picture the photos your phone will serve up 10 years from now!Key Points:
- The rising generation has been chosen to be here at this time for a purpose.
- Youth are encouraged to actively participate in the gospel and prepare for future milestones.
- Simple acts of living the gospel and serving others can have a profound impact.
- Reflect on a time when you felt empowered to make a difference in your community.
- Consider how you can prepare for significant life events in the next decade.
- Share how you have been able to influence your peers through your example.
Fulfill Divinely Appointed Responsibilities
Elder Stevenson outlines four key responsibilities for members to embrace: living the gospel, caring for those in need, inviting others to receive the gospel, and uniting families for eternity.
Prophets of God have taught us this is done through four simple activities, referred to as divinely appointed responsibilities.
Let your friends see the joy you feel in living the gospel, and you will be the best gospel message they ever receive.Key Points:
- Live the gospel of Jesus Christ by following the prophets and making covenants.
- Care for those in need through acts of service and compassion.
- Invite others to receive the gospel by sharing your testimony and experiences.
- Unite families for eternity through temple work and family history.
- Share a time when you felt the joy of living the gospel.
- Discuss an experience where you were able to help someone in need.
- Reflect on how you have invited others to learn about the gospel.
