...as we look at the universe, we do not see unexplained chaos or cosmic churn. Instead, the faithful see God “moving in His majesty and power” (D&C 88:47). It is like viewing a divinely choreographed, cosmic ballet—spectacular, subduing, and reassuring!
Even so, in the midst of our feeling overcome by the wonder and awe, the “cares of the world” can overcome us (see D&C 39:9). Humdrum routineness and repetition can cause us to look indifferently downward instead of reverently upward and outward. We can become estranged from the Creator, who then seems like a far, distant star: “For how knoweth a man the master whom he has not served, and who is a stranger unto him, and is far from the thoughts and intents of his heart?” (Mosiah 5:13).
We know the Creator of the universe is also the Author of the plan of happiness. We can trust Him. He knows perfectly what brings happiness to His children (see Mosiah 2:41; Alma 41:10).
...as some experience daily life situations in which they are or feel unloved and unappreciated, they can nevertheless know that God loves them! His creations so witness.
Therefore, we can confess His hand in our individual lives just as we can confess His hand in the astonishing universe (see D&C 59:21). If we will so confess His hand now, one day we who are “cradled” amidst His creations can even know what it is like to be “clasped in the arms of Jesus” (Mormon 5:11).
The reverent rejoicing being now encouraged by these remarks was there a long, long time ago. As the Creator’s plan was presented premortally, some even “shouted for joy” (Job 38:7). Why not? For “men are, that they might have joy” (2 Nephi 2:25). May you be blessed to convey to your students the contagion of your reverence and awe concerning the Lord’s creations and His plans for us.
...I testify that the astonishing work of God is greater than the known universe. Further, I testify that God’s plans for His children predate His provision of this beautiful planet for us!
Elder Neal A. Maxwell
https://rsc.byu.edu/archived/study-and-faith-selections-religious-educator/chapter-4-our-creators-cosmos
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