Forgiveness and Healing

Welcome to the Neighborhood News

http://www.thinkstockphotos.com/

We see too much evil on the world today. We hear so many tragic stories of abuse. How can we deal with them, and be of support to others who’ve experienced it?

In a General Conference address from 2008, Elder Richard G. Scott has said in his talk To Heal the Shattering Consequences of Abuse:

“Moral agency is a vital element in our Father in Heaven’s plan of happiness. He understood that some of His spirit children would use that agency improperly, causing serious problems to others. Some would even violate sacred trust, such as a father or family member abusing an innocent child. Since our Heavenly Father is completely just, there has to be a way of overcoming the tragic consequences of such damaging use of agency for both the victim and the perpetrator. That secure healing comes through the power of the Atonement of His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, to rectify that which is unjust. Faith in Jesus Christ and in His power to heal provides the abused with the means to overcome the terrible consequences of another’s unrighteous acts. When combined with complete repentance, the Atonement also affords the perpetrator a way to avoid the severe punishment the Lord has decreed for such acts.”

It is of comfort to us to know that our general authorities are in touch with what some of us are going through and are extending a needed, loving hand towards us. We should listen to their message to be healed.

As always we welcome your comments.

To view a copy of the Neighborhood News for Monday 13 June, click here.