Visiting and Home Teaching is hard because it is so important. Over the last 25 years of my membership I’ve had examples of many different styles of “teaching”. I’ve had absentee teachers as well as those who have often “gone the 2nd mile”.

I had one home teacher counsel me to take more vitamins when I asked for a health blessing. Being a fairly new member and being concerned that I had made an inappropriate request, I discussed my home teacher’s response with my Elder’s Quorum President and Bishop. Soon after, the Elder’s Quorum President invited my home teacher and myself into a quiet classroom during a ward function. The Elder’s Quorum President proceeded to discuss the importance of priesthood blessings. Still needing a health blessing, the brethren prepared to give me a blessing. The Elder’s Quorum President asked my Home Teacher whether he wanted to anoint or seal the blessing. My home teacher turned bright red and stammered. He then admitted that he had never given a priesthood blessing.

At that point I understood why he had suggested the vitamins. It was pride. My home teacher didn’t want to admit that I had asked something of him that he was nervous about. After receiving guidance from the Elder’s Quorum President, he anointed and did a good job. We both went away feeling better. I’ve thought about him over the years and have wondered how many blessings he has since participated in.

What I learned is that Home Teachers (and Visiting Teachers too) are human. They have faults and failings just like I do. Since I want forgiveness and understanding when I’m less than perfect, I strive to do the same. Even though we humans are riddled with faults and failings, the Gospel is still true. Some experiences give us the opportunity to learn how to apply the principle of forgiveness as well as gratitude.

Cecelia B.

Posted by John in Miscellaneous Articles