Some Thoughts on Premortal, Mortal and Eternal Identity and Purpose

Tad R. Callister taught this past General Conference, “In the life to come, I do not know if titles such as bishop or Relief Society president will survive, but I do know that the titles of husband and wife, father and mother, will continue and be revered, worlds without end.”

Interestingly, none of us know the titles our Heavenly Father held before He became known simply as “Father” to us. But would it matter? Would His pre-Father titles make any difference on how we would receive Him?

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For those who walked with Jesus during His mortal life, they knew not of Him, either.

Neal A. Maxwell said, “Though crucified briefly between two thieves, Jesus now sits eternally on the right hand of God! He is the Lord of the constructed universe, yet He was known merely as ‘the carpenter’s son.’

“He fashioned worlds without number, providing us with astrophysical awe when we view even ‘the least of these.’  Yet, to aid just one blind man—with clay formed from spittle, ‘He from thick films [purged] the visual ray, / And on the sightless eyeball [poured] the day.’” (Alexander Pope, in Frederic W. Farrar, The Life of Christ, New York: E. P. Dutton and Co., 1893, p. 394; see John 9:6.)

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I'm learning that my true identity - who I really am - is forming and developing as I learn my relationship with my Eternal Father. And as I strive to be more like Him and His Son, I realize how fleeting titles are!

Once, I was a senior class president (which still catches up with me every ten years :) I've held the title of "Social Planner," software instructor, help desk supervisor, administrative assistant; Primary teacher; and Young Women's President.

Right now, I'm a full-time student, third grade “copy” mom, and Gospel Doctrine Teacher.

But all these titles mean nothing if I cannot learn about my divine nature as a daughter of my Heavenly Father and my eternal role as a wife and a mother.

And perhaps, one day, when I have been completely refined, wholly understanding my relationship with my Eternal Father, I will see why being called, “Mother” beats every other title given by man!