At RootsTech 2015, Elder Bradley D. Foster of the Seventy gave powerful testimony and counsel on why it is so important to involve our children in the saving work of family history. Elder Foster cited the Book of Mormon example of when Lehi asked his young sons to return to Jerusalem to receive the brass plates. He taught that, while Lehi could have done the task himself and maybe would have had more influence on Laban, it was important for those sons to learn from that task. It was important for them to have the experience of working to learn and preserve their heritage..
Some other key teachings from this talk:
- “Lehi ... taught his family what he had learned from the plates. You might say that the tent of Lehi became like a family history center, just as our homes should be today. Our Heavenly Father’s plan for His children centers around this kind of a family, with children who draw strength from ancestors ... and parents who seek to bless their posterity for generations to come."
- “When we know who we are in relationship to God, and to each other, it changes the way we think, the way we act, and the way we treat other people. Looking back prepares us to go forward."
- “Just as Lehi sent his sons back to Jerusalem for the sacred records, let us send our children back for our family records. Just as the Lord provided a way for Nephi, He has provided the Internet and other technologies that will enable your children to ... gather and heal your families. And He has provided temples where we can take the names and ... make our gatherings permanent through sealing ordinances.”
Watch a video of the highlights of Elder Foster's RootsTech 2015 address by clicking the play button below. See the entire address by clicking here.
