General Conference—Messages for the World

Emily Belle Freeman was determined to walk the “Jesus Trail:” the road from Nazareth to Capernaum that Jesus Christ himself may have once walked. She was so determined, in fact, that breaking her ankle a few weeks before her planned expedition didn’t deter her.

She arrived at the trailhead with a knee scooter and a smile. Her Israeli guide began to protest, but seeing her persistence, allowed the cripple to begin the journey.

“I love [my guide] for that,” said Freeman “for believing I could walk the trail broken.”

And she did walk it—for a time. Then, in compassion, the guide pulled out a thin rope, tied it to the handlebars of the scooter, and began to pull. Up and down hills, through orchards and along the Sea of Galilee, the guide made it possible for Freeman to finish something she could have never accomplished on her own.

I love that story for so many reasons. I love that the storyteller wanted so much to walk where Jesus physically walked. I love her grit, even in a broken condition. And I love the guide’s willingness to serve. I love the guide’s likeness to Christ, helping us to do difficult things even when –especially when—we are inadequate.

Freeman, who is the Young Women General President of my church, shared her experiences a few weekends ago during the October 2023 General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her story, which I watched on my television, snuggled into the sofa next to my husband with grandchildren nearby, helped me reflect on my own persistence in the face of challenges, and reinforced my desire to serve others.

Each April and October, I am taught precious truths during General Conference. During five two-hour-long sessions, prophets, apostles and other church leaders share messages of comfort and wisdom that can help build the faith of all Christians. The sessions also feature beautiful musical numbers by The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.

Every year, listeners are encouraged to prepare for the conference through pondering and prayer. Participants are invited to consider what concerns they have that need answers. I try to follow this practice, and work to draw nearer to God in the days leading up to Conference. I want to hear His spiritual guidance during the sermons. Last April, for example, as the conference unfolded, I began to understand how I should plan for this winter—a niggling question that had been bothering me. I recognized that I needed to clear my schedule and simplify my life. As I did so, I felt peace. As the months have passed, I have seen the value of a calmer schedule. A little question, a quiet answer, a happier season.

Perhaps you have a question or a struggle you want to take to God. I testify that you can find the answers not only by praying and studying the scriptures, but also in the beautiful and inspired words of His servants. I believe in a God who wants to communicate with His children. He promises to pour out His wisdom and truth to you, if you earnestly seek it.

One of the speakers this October addressed this very point. President Henry B. Eyring said, “We can be taught by and learn from the Spirit line upon line, receiving what we need, and then when we are ready, we will receive more.” I know I need information from God today, and I want to always be ready to receive when He has more for me.

I felt a desire to take action after listening to Jan E. Newman: “One of our most sacred responsibilities is to help our children come to know deeply and specifically that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, their personal Savior and Redeemer.” I came away pondering how I can be a stronger witness of Jesus Christ to my children and grandchildren.

I loved listening as President Russell M. Nelson enthusiastically urged us to “think celestial,” encouraging us to take the longer, holier view.

“When you are confronted with a dilemma,” he said, “think celestial! When tested by temptation, think celestial! When life or loved ones let you down, think celestial! When someone dies prematurely, think celestial. When someone lingers with a devastating illness, think celestial. When the pressures of life crowd in upon you, think celestial!”

Thankfully, these inspired messages, and many more, are easily available in print, audio, or video formats, and provide ongoing comfort and insight to those who seek to hear the voice of the Lord. Coupled with prayer and scripture study, these talks will help you to find the answers you seek.

Kristin Fry is enjoying the crunch of the grass and the bite in the air. She is happy to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

MORE INFORMATION

Three easy ways to access General Conference

Watch it on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@churchofjesuschristgeneralconf

Read it online: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference?lang=eng

Listen to it on a podcast: “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints General Conference Podcast” from KSL Newsradio