Today is a time of great opportunity, said H. David Burton, presiding bishop of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, during BYU's weekly devotional held in the Marriott Center Tuesday. Despite difficulties that challenge some men and women's souls, it is a good time to be alive, he said.
"We all have to determine for ourselves if we, in mixed turbulent times like we are currently in, perceive the glass of water to be half full or half empty," he said. "I'm a half full sort of guy. I propose that we are, indeed, living in the best of times. In spite of all of its warts, 2009 is a great time to be alive. We are living in a time of great opportunity."
With economic uncertainties and the widespread discontent existing between nations and world religions that oftentimes breeds fear for the future, Bishop Burton reminded students of other times in history when times were tough.
It was during times of difficulty, he said, that many rose above themselves and the times and gave support to others who were suffering. The hard times became a time to rise to a new level, allowing an individual to become capable in ways they never thought possible.
"We have that same opportunity today," Bishop Burton said. "The challenges of 2009 can be the platform that sensitizes, prepares and launches us to the tomorrows of our lives."
Although difficulty does come, there are so many aspects of life that can bring joy, Bishop Burton said.
"It is an awesome and exciting time to be alive because the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ has again been restored to the earth in our day," he said.
Giving examples of many projects the church contributes to worldwide, Bishop Burton spoke of the growing church and the plans necessary to accommodate such growth. He spoke of the church's resources and the efforts going toward meetinghouses and temples being built throughout the world, as well as missionary work and humanitarian aid.
"In terms of the gospel of Jesus Christ, it certainly is the best of times," Bishop Burton said. "As each of you contemplates what is occurring quietly around the world, I hope you can feel excitement and optimism laced with an abundance of gratitude."
To find joy in hard times, individuals must remember to take sufficient time to love, listen, learn, laugh, lighten, lead and lift, he said. No matter the challenge an individual must face, the future is bright for those who are obedient and recognize the blessings in their life.
"Yes, these are the times that may try men's souls, and perhaps for some the challenges of the day may seem overwhelming," Bishop Burton said, "but for all who continue to have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, who, regardless of circumstances, continue to be positive and obedient, who continue to see the glass half full, 2009 and the times that follow will be the best of times."
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