Walk in the light- Be like a mirror

The light of the gospel illuminates the path of life to eternity that otherwise would be dark and non-directing, said Elder Ted E. Brewerton of the Seventy.In the Saturday morning session, Elder Brewerton spoke of two types of light - physical and spiritual light.

"Physical light, especially natural light, affects the moods of people," he said. "Mounting evidence indicates that people who are feeling a little down and need a lift can get it by going outside in the daylight. . . ."

But spiritual light has infinitely greater power and effect, Elder Brewerton continued.

He pointed out that the word light appears 535 times in the scriptures.

In D&C 88:67, Elder Brewerton read, " `And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things.' (D&C 88:67.)

"Jesus Christ is the Light of the world," he continued. "Our Lord is the Light of the world in at least three ways," as outlined by Elder Bruce R. McConkie.

First, through the Light of Christ He governs and controls the universe and gives life to all.

Second, by this same immensity-filling light - and to certain faithful ones by the power of the Holy Ghost - He enlightens the minds and quickens the understanding.

And third, by His own upright, sinless, and perfect course, in premortal life, in mortality, and in resurrected glory, He sets a perfect example and is able to say to all men: "Follow thou me." (2 Ne. 31:10.)

Elder Brewerton continued: "In the First Vision, light released the boy Joseph from oppressive darkness. How does light enter into us?

"Elder Bruce R. McConkie has written: `Christ is the light; the gospel is the light; the plan of salvation is the light; that which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day.

" `As the light of the sun enters the body through our natural eyes, so the light of heaven - the light of the Spirit which illuminates our souls - enters through our spiritual eyes.' "

Elder Brewerton remarked, quoting President Joseph F. Smith: " `Men and women should become settled in the truth, and founded in the knowledge of the gospel, depending upon no person for borrowed or reflected light, but trusting only upon the Holy Spirit, who is ever the same, shining forever and testify to the individual and the priesthood, who live in harmony with the laws of the gospel, of the glory and the will of the Father.'

"Light persuades us to do good; it leads us to Christ," Elder Brewerton concluded. "We can be like a mirror and direct light even into dark places. We are not the sources of light; nevertheless, through us light can be reflected to others."