Sister Coleen K. Menlove
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World tragedies in recent months have focused the attention of many on children who have suffered irreparable losses. Outpourings of help have been common, but "Unknowingly, we may look beyond the children in our own midst. Are we really aware of the perilous circumstances surrounding our own children? We can usually determine if their physical needs are met, but what about their spiritual needs? Do they know of the light and peace of the gospel of Jesus Christ?
"Children need the peace that comes from knowing they have a loving Heavenly Father, who sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to bring hope into the world." Adults must direct children to that peace and light.
The Savior set an example for teaching children in his interactions with them in the Book of Mormon account found in the book of Third Nephi. "While teaching the people, he gathered the children to him. He knelt and prayed with the children and for them. He blessed the children one by one. He felt the joy of their presence and opened the heavens that the children might be taught from on high."
Children must be included in the activities of LDS religious life and taught that "together, our family is striving to keep the commandments and to be worthy to be an eternal family." During informal interactions, the spirit may prompt adults to ask the right questions or to say the right thing to help children know and feel the light of the Lord. "If we make opportunities, the spirit will guide us."
