One simple teaching of the Savior that can inspire peace and kindness at home.

In a previous post I mentioned how my boys have been fighting a lot and finding ways to scare and hurt each other just for fun. Well, as I have prayerfully considered how to help them I had a thought come to me. I am not sure if it will help anyone else with their families but wanted to share because it had such a powerful impact on my boys and on my primary class today. Before I explain the specific teaching I need to lay a brief backdrop.

In Alma chapter 7 verse 11 Alma teaches about the Savior's great and all encompassing Atonement. "And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people." We often teach our children about this doctrine and encourage them to turn to the Savior for peace and comfort. 

In Matthew chapter 25 the Lord gives a very powerful parable about how our actions impact Him. He tells of servants brought before a King to be judged. Both those who are found in favor and those found lacking are confused at the King's claim that they have given service to the King or that they have failed to render the King aide in his time of need. The King then tells them all, "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

I have often taught lessons about that parable and reminded the children to do kind things to others and remember that they are serving the Savior. I have never, until this week in a moment when my four year old was at his worst, thought to explain it in the reverse or to tie it to the teaching in Alma. Anytime we intentionally do something to hurt someone else we are actually hurting the Savior. The impact on me and my son was profound. It is not a novel idea but the power with which if struck him was wonderful. I had no intention of sharing that experience today but while teaching my primary class but it came up unexpectedly and all of the kids in my class were so struck by the concept that they all committed with no prompting to go home and teach it to their families. I said, "If you wouldn't do it to the Savior, then don't do it to another human being because He will feel the affects of your actions." 

So let us remember "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." He feels the peace and comfort we give to others and He feels the sorrow, pain and fear our actions can cause.  May we strive to do more to add to His peace and comfort and do all we can to prevent causing Him pain. As we do this our homes will have the Spirit abundantly and our love and appreciation for the Savior will be great.