Sacrifice of all things

“… a religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation; …” Lectures on Faith, Lecture Sixth, paragraph 7

It is obvious that Abraham and many prophets of old sacrificed everything, and the saints of recent times in being persecuted and crossing the plains sacrificed everything, but how are we modern saints sacrificing all things? Who do I know that has sacrificed all things? Who has given up their time, talents, and possessions, even their very lives in service to their calling? Today’s prophets and apostles certainly have no personal life, nor any real possessions. There are many with whom I am acquainted who give their all in their callings as bishops, stake presidents, relief society presidents, even teachers, home teachers, and visiting teachers in fulfilling their callings. They give all of the time required to execute that calling in the service and uplifting of others. (Ah, there is the key to the answer to another question.)

How has that sacrifice produced the faith necessary unto life and salvation? Having given all and being asked for more, being stretched beyond their capacities, within that rarified atmosphere when there is nothing left, Christ steps in to fill the gap. In that filling, when one knows that they have nothing left to give and they see the hand of God work, then their faith grows, even to a knowledge of Christ and His existence and concern for us. They then have knowledge of this one thing. “And this is life eternal, to know God and His Son Jesus Christ.”

Some other religions require the sacrifice of all things. Why don’t they have power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation? Certainly many Muslims have given their lives as suicide bombers because of their great faith. Buddhist monks give up all to meditate and become one with god. What is different about their zeal that would not bring them life and salvation? The key was mentioned earlier. The focus is to uplift others, bring relief, comfort, peace, and happiness to others, to alleviate suffering, and make this a better world. The suicide bomber is filled with hatred and is bent on destruction. The whole religion is one of restriction and taboos on the rights of others and forcing them to follow their prescribed way. The Buddhist monk is often centered on finding peace for himself. However, as they and the Mother Theresa’s of this world seek the betterment of mankind, they often do see the hand of God in their work, and their faith grows in this one thing. Certainly, these individuals, as they seek to uplift, serve, and sacrifice will be receiving all of the truths of the Gospel as it is presented to them in its fullness. Because of their desire to serve others, they will recognize the voice of the one who gave the great sacrifice and come unto Him. They too will have life and salvation.

The key is to sacrifice for the same goals as our Father in Heaven has for us. In giving up all in this quest, we gain His presence and become fellow workers with Him and gain that true knowledge of Him, which brings life and salvation.