Elder J. Kimo Esplin
Elder J. Kimo Esplin’s talk highlights the healing power of the Savior, demonstrated through temple blessings that extend to individuals, families, and nations. He shares a remarkable story of a Japanese woman’s journey from the horrors of World War II to embracing the Gospel, ultimately leading her family to the temple. This narrative exemplifies the transformative and unifying influence of temple covenants.
Temple Blessings: A Source of Healing
Elder Esplin emphasizes the profound impact of temple blessings on individuals and families, providing heavenly power to withstand life’s trials and challenges. He quotes President Russell M. Nelson’s statement on the rewards of keeping covenants and accessing the power of Jesus Christ.
“Each person who makes covenants in baptismal fonts and in temples—and keeps them—has increased access to the power of Jesus Christ… This power eases our way.” – President Russell M. Nelson
Scriptural references for further study:
- Malachi 4:2: “But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings…”
A Tale of Faith Amidst Adversity
The story of the Okinawan woman and her family’s journey through the Battle of Okinawa, adversity, and the eventual discovery of the Gospel exemplifies unwavering faith and the healing power of Christ’s love, even in the darkest times.
“Imagine her joy when two sister missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints came to her house one day and taught her that people can learn about Jesus Christ in the spirit world.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Doctrine and Covenants 138:30: “But behold, from among the righteous, he organized his forces and appointed messengers, clothed with power and authority, and commissioned them to go forth and carry the light of the gospel to them that were in darkness, even to all the spirits of men; and thus was the gospel preached to the dead.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 138:58: “The dead who repent will be redeemed, through obedience to the ordinances of the house of God”
The Sacrifices for Temple Blessings
Elder Esplin discusses the sacrifices made by Japanese Saints, including financial contributions and translations, to attend the Hawaii Temple. These acts of dedication and unity demonstrate the profound impact of temple work on individuals and communities.
“We’ve been to the temple many, many times. We’ve heard the ceremonies in English. [But] we have never felt the spirit of … temple work as we feel it now [hearing it] in our own native tongue.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Mosiah 18:21: “And he commanded them that there should be no contention one with another, but that they should look forward with one eye, having one faith and one baptism, having their hearts knit together in unity and in love one towards another.”
- Mosiah 4:13: “And ye will not have a mind to injure one another, but to live peaceably”
Unity and Love Amidst Historical Conflict
The talk highlights the incredible unity and love demonstrated by Hawaiian and Japanese Saints, despite the historical conflicts between their nations. The transformative power of the temple experience bridges cultural divides and fosters bonds of love and brotherhood.
“As I looked out of the airplane and saw Pearl Harbor, and remembered what our country had done to these people on December 7, 1941, I feared in my heart. Will they accept us? But to my surprise they showed greater love and kindness than I had ever seen in my life.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- 3 Nephi 11:29: “For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me…”
- Mosiah 4:13: “they should look forward with one eye, having one faith and one baptism, having their hearts knit together in unity and in love one towards another.”
Temples: A Source of Healing and Unity
Elder Esplin concludes by emphasizing the role of temples in the Savior’s work, where individuals, families, and nations find healing and unity. He bears witness to the power of temple covenants and the ongoing fulfillment of the Lord’s promise to spread the knowledge of a Savior throughout the world.
“Through temple blessings, the Savior heals individuals, families, and nations—even those that once stood as bitter enemies.”
Calls to Action:
- Embrace and magnify the blessings of temple covenants in your life.
- Seek unity and love with those of different backgrounds, transcending historical conflicts.
- Share the message of the Savior’s healing power and the role of temples with others.