There was an underlying theme in all the classes I attended today although the titles did not indicate it. There is a central quality of world religions even though the doctrines may be vastly different. This quality, although called by different names, is very much the same.
This quality is what binds us together. It is what strengthens our relationships. All of our relationships, with God, with our spouse, with everyone.
In the times of Confucius, China was slipping into chaos. He said if you want to rectify the State, you must rectify the family. If you want to rectify the family you must start with yourself.
And this central quality that must start with ourselves in Christianity is called Charity; in China it is called Benevolence; and in India it is called Compassion.
This sounds simple until you realize these are the conditions we must be operating under all the time. What about when our challenges are so compelling? When we feel trapped in a dark and dreary waste? He still requires that we love in the hardest of times. When we least feel like it. He says, "Love each other and choose me."
How do we do this? It is strength we cannot get from mortal relationships. It does require we change our attitude. We must find gratitude in our lives. We must recognize God's love in all things. We must look for His tender mercies daily. Does He love us because we are good or He is good?
As we take the Sacrament, remember, it is a two way promise. As we renew our covenants, so does he. We promise to keep His commandments, remember Him. He promises to help get us home. He will help us with the capacity to love. It is this love that transcends and transforms all of our relationships. No matter your religion.
