Study the scriptures- Live the commandments

A "relatively simple but significant event" took place in Nauvoo, Ill., on Aug. 4 of this year, Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Council of the Twelve said Saturday morning. "After many months of careful planning, the descendants of Joseph Smith Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith dedicated the refurbished Smith Cemetery and opened it to the public."Elder Ballard related how, while standing at the foot of the headstone of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, "I had the impression that they would have me counsel all the members of the Church to remain anchored to the basic and simple principles of the gospel.

"Study the scriptures, look to the leaders of the Church for guidance in these troubled times," he declared. "Brothers and sisters, be careful of the schisms, divisions and contentions that are among us today. Keep the commandments so the Holy Ghost will be with you in your search for truth and knowledge."

He explained that as he attended the dedicatory services of the cemetery, his thoughts were centered on the remarkable contribution the family of Joseph Smith Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith made toward the Restoration of the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Elder Ballard counseled that each person who has a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ should appreciate and love Joseph Smith Jr., for he is " `the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, [whoT has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it.' " (D&C 135:3.)

The ancient prophet Nephi wrote that he was " `born of goodly parents,' " (1 Ne. 1:1) and so was the Prophet Joseph Smith, explained Elder Ballard. "Joseph Smith Sr. was in tune with the Spirit of the Lord. He knew that his young son spoke the truth. . . . Joseph Sr. endured ridicule and persecution because of his prophet son's experiences and claims. Yet, he was unwavering as he lovingly supported and defended his son."

Perhaps less visible than the prophet's father, but equally important in shaping and influencing his life, was his mother, Lucy Mack Smith, Elder Ballard said. "She gave continual encouragement, support, and strength to her son, Joseph the Prophet. His mother was the first person with whom young Joseph shared some of his momentous experiences of the Sacred Grove. The Prophet's mother shared also in his sorrows, suffering and persecutions."

Elder Ballard related how Hyrum Smith, "older brother, friend and mentor to the Prophet showed absolute, unequivocal, loyalty, love and allegiance to the Lord and to his younger brother, Joseph. "Their brotherhood may be unsurpassed."

Elder Ballard said that from the Prophet Joseph and Hyrum, many valuable lessons can be learned. "He and his brother, Hyrum, deserve our honor, respect and gratitude as do other members of their family who assisted with the Restoration of the fullness of the gospel."