The Reckoning of Choice: A Shepherd's Lament

There's a starkness to Jase Robertson's words that cuts through the sugar-coated rhetoric of our age. He doesn't offer nuanced arguments or gentle appeals; he states a fundamental truth: choices have consequences, and some choices lead to the cessation of life itself. While his language might seem jarring to some, the principle he highlights aligns perfectly with the prophetic warnings woven throughout the scriptures. Consider the Lord’s lament over the house of Israel, “And it came to pass that I spake unto them saying, Wo unto you, O house of Israel, because of your pride and abhorrence…ye have rejected my words and my commandments, and my holy prophets, and my apostles…” (Helaman 4:14). The consequences of rejecting divine counsel are not abstract; they are tangible, generational, and ultimately, mortal.

The transcript’s focus on reproduction and the continuation of humanity isn’t solely a biological observation. It speaks to a deeper covenant – the covenant of eternal families, a cornerstone of the Restoration. The Lord’s purpose in sending us here was not merely to exist, but to multiply, replenish the earth, and inherit exaltation. To deliberately dismantle that framework, to sever the chain of life, is to actively oppose the very purpose of our existence. Malachi’s warning resonates: “And ye shall eat in vain, and labour for nought; and ye shall not build houses, for ye shall not dwell therein; neither shall ye plant vineyards, for ye shall not gather the grapes.” (Malachi 2:14). The Lord's promise of abundance is contingent upon obedience to His laws, especially those pertaining to sacred covenants.

The ease with which we rationalize deviations from God’s plan – “I was born this way,” “It’s my choice” – reveals a dangerous complacency. It is not enough to simply acknowledge the *feeling* or *desire*; we must diligently examine the eternal consequences of acting upon it. The iron rod, as described in Ether 12, is a pathway of truth, and it demands a clear-eyed view of reality, unclouded by sentiment or self-deception. Those who grasp it tightly are guided to the source of light, but those who loosen their grip are inevitably lost in darkness.

The Brethren have repeatedly emphasized the importance of covenant keeping and the dangers of succumbing to the influences of the world. General Conference addresses are not merely inspirational speeches; they are divine directives, warnings given through prophets and apostles to guide us along the narrow path. To dismiss these warnings as outdated or irrelevant is to invite spiritual disaster. The Spirit, when properly heeded, will always align with the truth, even when that truth is uncomfortable.

This isn’t about judgment; it's about love. A loving shepherd doesn't shield his sheep from the wolves; he warns them of the dangers and guides them to safety. Our responsibility as fellow disciples is to bear witness of the truth, even when it’s unpopular, even when it’s painful. The Lord calls us to “contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3). This requires courage, humility, and a unwavering commitment to the eternal principles of the gospel.

The current cultural climate demands a renewed dedication to scripture study and personal revelation. We must immerse ourselves in the word of God, seeking His guidance in every aspect of our lives. We must strengthen our covenants in the temple, drawing upon the power of the priesthood to resist the temptations of the adversary.

Let us pray for the discernment to recognize the subtle shifts in the world around us, and for the strength to stand firm in the face of opposition. Let us strive to be a generation that honors the covenant, preserves the family, and builds a legacy of faith for generations to come.