President Emily Belle Freeman
Walking the Path with Christ
President Freeman shares the story of her journey on the Jesus Trail despite a broken ankle, highlighting the importance of having a guide. She draws a parallel to Enoch’s hesitation, emphasizing that the Lord invites us to walk with Him, even in our brokenness.
“Like Enoch, we must remember that the One who was bruised and broken for us will allow mortality to do its work in us, but He doesn’t ask us to face those challenges alone.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- 1 Nephi 3:7: “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded…”
- Mosiah 24:14: “And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders…”
The Covenant Path: Relationship with God
President Freeman discusses the covenant path, emphasizing that it’s not just a checklist but a relationship with God. She compares it to a marriage covenant, highlighting the importance of conditions, expectations, and the Lord’s invitation to come as we are.
“The covenant path is all about our relationship with God.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- 2 Nephi 31:17: “Wherefore, do the things which I have told you I have seen that your Lord and your Redeemer should do…”
The Mission of Condescension and Ascension
President Freeman explores the dual mission of Christ: condescension to meet us where we are and ascension to lift us to where He is. She emphasizes that staying where we are won’t bring deliverance, and the Lord intends to help us progress.
“His is a mission of condescension. Jesus Christ will meet us where we are as we are.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Philippians 2:8: “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death…”
The Covenant Relationship Symbolized
President Freeman reflects on the significance of the Western Wall in Israel, symbolizing the Jews’ devotion to their relationship with God. She connects this to personal questions about the covenant path, emphasizing that the degree of relationship with Jesus Christ depends on individual choices.
“The answer to these good and important questions is simple: it depends on what degree of relationship you want to experience with Jesus Christ.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Doctrine and Covenants 82:10: “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise.”
Personal Commitment to the Covenant Path
President Freeman expresses her commitment to a covenant relationship with the Savior. She encourages others to begin their journey, emphasizing that age or condition doesn’t matter, and invites them to seek guidance from someone on the covenant path.
“Don’t let your condition hinder you. Remember, pace or placement on the path are not as important as progress.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Helaman 3:35: “Nevertheless they did fast and pray oft, and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility…”
- Doctrine and Covenants 88:63: “Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me…”
Calls to Action:
- Begin your journey: Don’t let your current condition hinder you. Start where you are and progress on the covenant path.
- Seek guidance: Ask someone on the covenant path to introduce you to the Savior they know.
- Invest in the relationship: Enter into covenant with the Lord, regardless of your age or condition. Walk with Him.