Compensating blessings
Since coming to live in Peru, I have been at a disadvantage because it is hard for me to understand much of what is going on around me. Thankfully, I have learned enough to hear themes and basics of what is being said, but I lack the language skills to know the details and how exactly it all fits together. So, I observe and wonder as conversations continue around me constantly. This is especially true during the many church meetings that I attend. I can get a subject and an overall sense as to what they are saying, but the details that make it interesting escape me. To combat this, from day one I would commence my own personal study of whatever subject that was being discussed. At times it is lonely to be on the outside, but frequently I have been greatly blessed with spiritual inspiration and even revelation - especially during the sacrament. As the prayer is being said, I always pull out my scriptures and read the prayers in English. I can understand the prayers in Spanish, but I think deeply about them in English, and I have studied the questions of my heart about the atonement of Jesus Christ. Over time, I have learned more in my isolation than I had for many years at home when everything was presented in English because I am more focused and deliberate now. Because of this, the Lord has greatly blessed me in my learning.
This is an example of compensating blessings that Bishop Gérald Caussé talked about in our last General Conference in April. He promised us that if we ever feel limited or disadvantaged by the circumstances of our life, that the Lord’s blessings would remain wide open regardless.
Because God is both just and merciful and His plan is perfect, He will not hold us accountable for things beyond our control. The Atonement does not only redeem us for our mistakes, the Lord’s mercy and grace sustains us through injustices, deficiencies, and limitations imposed by our mortal experience.
This is beautiful and powerful doctrine for those I see frequently around me who are clearly disadvantaged far more than what I have experienced. It is comforting to know that God’s plan is not only universal but very merciful and kind.
scripture:
Isaiah 54:10
For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.
