Changing and redefining our lives

Alma is speaking to his son Corianton.

Let’s use the “big picture” context to add all the layers of meaning here.

▪️Alma, also referred to as “Alma the Younger” got his start running around with friends and trying to destroy the church that his dad had set up in the land.

▪️An angel came because of his dad’s pleadings. Alma experienced a miraculous conversion.

▪️He traveled the land, going from city to city, preaching the word and baptizing many.

▪️His heart turned to God, and he brought many others to the knowledge of their God, too.

▫️Alma later has a son named Corianton.

▫️Alma brought Corianton on a special mission to the Zoramites, but instead of sharing his testimony, Corianton was filled with pride and boasting.

▫️Corianton committed grievous sins with a woman while on his mission.

▫️Alma spoke to Corianton about his sins.

▫️Corianton traveled the land with his brothers, preaching the gospel and baptizing many, and serving for years.

Zooming back in to the portion of the story in Alma 39-42, we see a former sinner-turned-into-a-powerful-man filled with service and love, speaking to a current sinner.

Alma doesn’t know how Corianton will “turn out” yet. Corianton doesn’t know what his future will hold.

But Alma knows that even though Corianton has taken a detour from that Iron Rod, he can make it back and partake of God’s love.

And he knows Corianton can do this because he made that same difficult-but-totally-possible journey of repentance years ago.

Alma was the perfect father for Corianton.

Two strong men who showed examples of not letting the lowest points in their lives define them. Using that guilt and pain to push themselves into repentance and rededication.

Like father, like son.

And boy, am I grateful I don’t have to be defined by my worst decisions, either. I allow the Spirit to move me forward toward peace, love, forgiveness, and repentance.

My past does not need to be my label, my definition, or my eternal judgment sentence.

Happy Studying!

-Cali Black

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