If you had to see a surgeon, would you choose one who is still is medical school, learning about surgery? Or would you want one with experience? It's a simple example, but it applies to all things in life. When we want to know eternal truths of life, it's best to listen to those who have found them. Even better, listen to those who are now in Heaven! They have a full eternal perspective on truth.
Meetings with my ancestors
I have had many early morning conversations with those in the spirit world. These spirits were all in spirit prison (often referred to as hell). They had not learned of Jesus Christ while on earth, but had the opportunity to learn about him after they died.
You can read some of these stories here, here, here, and here.
Recently, though, I've been prompted to meet specifically with my ancestors. The difference is that my ancestors are in spirit paradise. They have all accepted Jesus by being baptized by one holding priesthood authority and have accepted this work that was done vicariously for them.
There is one scripture in the New Testament that alludes to baptism for the dead in the early days of the church.
This article explains the practice of baptism (and other ordinances) for the dead that is practiced today in temples of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
What is spirit paradise like?
Spirit paradise is a place, or more accurately, a state of being, where those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior go after death. It's often referred to as Heaven.
However, once someone goes to spirit paradise, they're not done learning and growing.
Just as we have a lot to learn after we are baptized, the same is true when we pass into the spirit world. Our learning doesn't suddenly end.
This was reinforced to me on this particular morning when I met with Jack, my aunt's husband. I was having a hard time getting connected to him. When I prayed for understanding, Heavenly Father shared this:
"Remember, this is a new experience for your ancestors, too. They are all at varying degrees of progress themselves. Once they accept my truth and come into paradise, there is still much they must learn."
Heavenly Father's words make even more sense, and are confirmed as truth, by Jack's first words to me. He said, "Good morning, Jen! Well, this is quite the interesting experience, isn't it? You know, our daughter Kathy had the gift of sight. But it frightened her, so she walked away from it. I didn't really understand it, and now here I am, to talk with you about Jesus. What an interesting thing! Well, my time is short, so I will get right to it."
Eternal truth #1: You are a beloved child of God
Jack begins, "I am a child of God. We are all children of God. We were created with love, created in love. The love of your Heavenly Father surpasses anything you could comprehend or experience while on earth. But know that it is real. It brings peace and healing, but we must learn to let it into our hearts."
Eternal truth #2: Happiness comes from good things
He continues. "Seek after all that is good in the world. Do not spend time on the dark or the lowly things. They won't bring what you seek. They are like a carnival ride. A fleeting passion, a short experience of fun, that doesn't last. And sometimes it makes you sick!"
"Instead, seek after those things that are eternal. The things that last. Those are the things that matter."
Eternal truth #3: Family helps us learn life lessons
"Family is very important. Your family relationships give you the opportunity to experience the lessons you are here to learn. Take a close look at your family relationships. What are the lessons there? Where are the rubs, the difficulties? Lean into them. Do what you can to bring peace and understanding to the difficult situations. Ask God to show you what the lesson is. He will guide you to understand."
Heaven is an orderly place
"I'm sorry. I would like to share more with you, Jen, but my time is up. Things are very orderly here, and we must follow. It is always good and wise to obey. Please obey."
The gospel brings blessings
What a blessing to receive such beautiful guidance! I am so grateful for these early morning conversations with those who have found lasting peace on the other side of the veil. I know that as we choose to follow Jesus, we can have peace in our hearts. And even when our family experiences are difficult, with God's help, we can learn and grow from them. I've found this to be true in my own life.
