The Glue of Love

The word love is mentioned five times in the Family Proclamation.  According to the Proclamation husbands and wives are admonished “to love and care for each other and for their children.”  Parents are told that they “have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness.”  Parents are also told that they need to teach their children “to love and serve one another.”   Love is one of the principles listed that helps to make a successful marriage and family.  Additionally, the Proclamation states that “fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness.”

Why is love so important in marriages and families?  Because love is the glue that holds marriages and families together.  When we love someone we want the best for them.  We are willing to sacrifice for them.  When we love someone we are willing to put their needs before our own.  We are willing to give our time and money and resources to make their life the best that it can be.

The Savior taught, “Love thy neighbor as thyself.”  Surely, those of our own family are our closest neighbors and deserve our most devoted love.