This is a unique and pivotal time in history. We are blessed to live in the last dispensation before the Second Coming of the Savior. Near the commencement of this dispensation, in 1829, the year before the Church was formally organized, a revelation was received, declaring that “a marvelous work” was “about to come forth.”

And at least part of this “marvelous work” must be our interest in family history work. As I think about what draws us to this work, I am drawn to the love that we feel for our families. Love is at the center of our temple and family history efforts to gather Israel on the other side of the veil. When we learn of the trials and hardships our ancestors faced, our love and appreciation for them is magnified.

It seems to me that the Lord is aligning our hearts with love and having us move away from feelings of mere responsibility or guilt. Love is a much stronger motivator and can create a divine partnership with our Savior to share His message, ministry, and mission with the world.

We have been promised that as we focus our love on the Savior and His Atonement, making Him the centerpiece of our efforts to gather Israel on both sides of the veil, minister to others, and individually prepare to meet God, the influence of the adversary will be diminished and the joy, delight, and peace of the gospel will magnify our homes with Christlike love.

Thanks for being a part of this great work! I hope you are feeling Christlike love in your service at the FamilySearch Center. It is a privilege to be involved in this work!

– Doug Nielsen, Director, Granite FamilySearch Center