Dear brothers and sisters,

 Reflecting on the profound truth once shared by Thomas S. Monson “I consider charity—or 'the pure love of Christ'—to be the opposite of criticism and judging."  On another occasion, he mentioned that “Charity is having patience with someone who has let us down. It is resisting the impulse to become offended easily. It is accepting weaknesses and shortcomings. It is accepting people as they truly are. It is looking beyond physical appearances to attributes that will not dim through time. It is resisting the impulse to categorize others."

 In the journey of life, we encounter so many instances where labels can either build bridges or erect walls. Think of the world of sports, where labeling either yourself or someone you know as a fan of a specific team and how this might create a barrier with fans of rival teams—sometimes even fostering division or ill feelings that linger far too long.  This happens in sports, politics, business and schools.

 Yet, how different are the labels our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ bestow upon us in holy scripture! They draw us closer to Him and to one another, such as Sons of God, Children of God, Children of your Father who is in heaven, A little child, My disciples, A light unto this people, My sheep, Other sheep, My church, House of Israel, Remnant of the house of Israel/Jacob/Joseph, Children of the prophets, Children of the covenant / Of the covenant, My people, and Descendants of Jacob. These sacred designations remind us of our divine heritage and pull our hearts toward God and our forebears. The love of our Heavenly Father is indeed real and boundless, far greater than we can fully comprehend. We add our own witness to this eternal truth: God loves each one of you dearly. May this day of rest fill your soul with peace, and may you reach out to a neighbor in need, sharing that divine love freely. This is our testimony that He loves us and desires our eternal companionship with Him, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

 Mill Shadow Ward Bishopric