More at https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/55kearon?lang=eng
In his address titled “Receive His Gift,” delivered during the Sunday afternoon session of the April 2025 General Conference, Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles emphasized the profound truth that each individual is a literal child of God.
He invited listeners to fully embrace this divine heritage, highlighting how such understanding can transform lives and bring immeasurable joy and purpose.
Elder Kearon began by underscoring the reality of our divine parentage, stating that being children of God is not merely a metaphor but a literal truth. He expressed awe at this concept, noting that accepting this “all-encompassing gift” with humility and gratitude can profoundly impact every aspect of our lives. He emphasized that this understanding should influence our daily decisions, interactions, and self-perception.
He shared a personal experience from his early days as a member of the Church. While attending a sacrament meeting, he was deeply moved by the congregation’s singing of the hymn “I Am a Child of God.” The simple yet profound lyrics resonated with him, reinforcing his budding testimony of his divine identity. This experience became a cornerstone in his spiritual journey, reminding him continually of his worth and potential as a child of God.
Throughout his talk, Elder Kearon emphasized that understanding our identity as children of God carries significant implications. It should inspire us to treat others with kindness and respect, recognizing their divine heritage as well. This perspective fosters unity, compassion, and a deeper sense of community among all of God’s children.
3 Quotes
“I invite you to receive either for the first time, or to a greater extent than ever before, the magnificent realization that you truly are God’s beloved child. You must undo the bow, tear off the wrapping paper, open the box and actively receive with grateful humility a true, pure understanding of this foundational truth.”
“You may be wondering, ‘What do I have to do to receive this gift from God?’ Well, actually, nothing. It is a gift from the Giver. That is simply a fact. Just let it in. You are His child. You are beloved of Him. Do not complicate it. Do not block the receiving of this gift with thoughts that you are somehow undeserving.”
“You are a child of God. This is not just a nice song we sing. Will you please accept, open, and receive this gift of knowledge and understanding from Him? Will you hold it close as the precious treasure it is? Re-receive this gift, or perhaps truly receive it for the very first time, and let it transform every aspect of your life.”
10 Questions
Do I truly believe and internalize that I am a literal child of God?
How does understanding my divine heritage influence my daily decisions and interactions?
In what ways can I remind myself of my infinite worth in God’s eyes?
How does recognizing others as children of God affect the way I treat them?
What steps can I take to more fully embrace my identity as a child of Heavenly Parents?
Are there doubts or fears that I can overcome by focusing on my divine lineage?
How can I help others understand and appreciate their own divine heritage?
Does my self-perception align with how God sees me?
In what ways can I express gratitude for the gift of being a child of God?
How can this understanding guide me in fulfilling my divine potential?
For the full address, please refer to Elder Patrick Kearon: ‘Receive His Gift’.
dyejo
Guest Author
