“Return unto Me … That I May Heal You”
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What is the significance of the willow tree in Elder Palmer's message?
- How does Elder Palmer describe the journey back to faith?
- What promises does Elder Palmer highlight for those who return to the Church?
- How does Elder Palmer address those who feel they have lost their faith?
- What role do family and community play in supporting those who return to the Church?
Topics
Recognize Hope Even When All Seems Lost
Elder Palmer uses the metaphor of a fallen willow tree to illustrate that hope can be found even when faith seems lost. He shares stories of individuals who have returned to the Church, emphasizing that there is always a way back to spiritual vitality.
While I meet Saints around the world, I am reminded of this willow tree and how there is hope even when all seems lost.
To all who are longing for faith, we invite you to come back. I promise your faith can be strengthened as you once again worship with the Saints.
- What does the willow tree symbolize in Elder Palmer's message?
- How does Elder Palmer illustrate the concept of hope for those who have lost their faith?
- Have you ever felt like the fallen willow tree in your faith journey? What helped you find hope again?
- How can you offer hope to someone who feels their faith is lost?
Understand the Journey Back to Faith
Elder Palmer acknowledges that the journey back to faith is often challenging but assures that it is worthwhile. He draws lessons from the willow tree's recovery to encourage patience and persistence in nurturing one's faith.
The journey back is often not easy or comfortable, but it is worth it.
Be patient as your faith and testimony also grow.
- What are some of the challenges Elder Palmer mentions about returning to faith?
- How does the recovery of the willow tree relate to the journey of regaining faith?
- What steps can you take to strengthen your faith during difficult times?
- How can you support others in their journey back to faith?
Embrace the Healing Power of Jesus Christ
Elder Palmer extends an invitation to return to Christ, highlighting the healing and peace that come from repentance and renewed discipleship. He assures that through the Atonement, all that is broken can be healed.
‘Will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?’
Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, all that is broken can be healed.
- What invitation does Elder Palmer extend to those who have stepped away from the Church?
- How does the Atonement of Jesus Christ play a role in the healing process?
- In what ways have you experienced the healing power of Jesus Christ in your life?
- How can you invite others to experience the healing that comes from returning to Christ?
Value the Role of Family and Community Support
Elder Palmer shares stories of individuals who returned to the Church, highlighting the crucial support of family and community. He underscores the importance of love and kindness in welcoming back those who have strayed.
They didn’t call me out on my sins; rather, they called out to me in my sinfulness.
With all the love in our hearts, we welcome you home.
- How did family and community support play a role in the stories Elder Palmer shared?
- What can we learn from the approach of loving and welcoming those who have strayed?
- How can you show love and support to someone who is returning to the Church?
- What role can you play in creating a welcoming environment for returning members?
Acknowledge the Importance of Personal Spiritual Nourishment
Elder Palmer emphasizes the need for continuous spiritual nourishment to maintain and grow one's faith. He draws parallels to the care required for the willow tree's recovery, such as regular worship and sensitivity to the Spirit.
You will nourish your faith and your testimony as you feast at the sacrament table each week and as you worship in the house of the Lord.
Learn from Amulek, who described his time as a less-active member by saying, ‘I was called many times and I would not hear.’
- Why is spiritual nourishment essential for maintaining faith, according to Elder Palmer?
- What practices does Elder Palmer suggest for nourishing one's faith?
- What spiritual practices help you feel nourished and strengthened in your faith?
- How can you make spiritual nourishment a regular part of your life?
