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| After my endowment in San Diego |
In General Conference 1997, Elder Carlos E. Asay shared the following story: “A few years ago, in a seminar for new temple presidents and matrons, Elder James E. Faust, then of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, told about his being called to serve as a General Authority. He was asked only one question by President Harold B. Lee: ‘Do you wear the garments properly?’ to which he answered in the affirmative. He then asked if President Lee wasn’t going to ask him about his worthiness. President Lee replied that he didn’t need to, for he had learned from experience that how one wears the garment is the expression of how the individual feels about the Church and everything that relates to it. It is a measure of one’s worthiness and devotion to the gospel.”
Can you imagine a temple recommend interview based on that one question? I can, for the proper wearing of garments shows modesty, obedience, and respect for, understanding of, and dedication to temple covenants. In short, “‘How it is worn is an outward expression of an inward commitment to follow the Savior.’”
I remember the first time I put on my garments in the temple. I thought it would feel weird or awkward. Quite the opposite was true: immediately they felt comfortable and right, and I knew they would be a protection and blessing to me.
With the passing of time and daily habit, it is easy to forget these feelings. We need to think, as Elder Asay thinks, that garments are “the Lord’s way of letting us take part of the temple with us when we leave.” The symbolism of the temple garments reminds us of the covenants we made and the blessings we may receive if we keep our covenants. In turn, these reminders help us to choose the right.
“The heavy armor worn by soldiers of a former day, including helmets, shields, and breastplates, determined the outcome of some battles,” noted Elder Asay. If we wear our garments properly, we will have the armor we need to win the battle against the devil and his armies.
With all this power and protection, we will be blessed. “Don’t forget,” reminded Elder Asay, “that the word garment is used symbolically in the scriptures and gives expanded meaning to other words such as white, clean, pure, righteous, modesty, covering, ceremonial, holy, priesthood, beautiful, perfection, salvation, undefiled, worthy, white raiment, shield, protection, spotless, blameless, armor, covenants, promises, blessings, respect, eternal life, and so forth.”
Challenge: If you wear garments, evaluate how you wear and regard them. Go to the temple often to remember the covenants and blessings associated with them. If you do not yet wear garments, prepare now for that beautiful transition. Wear modest clothing and undergarments. Keep your baptismal covenants. Use what symbols and power you have right now—CTR rings, the priesthood, the sacrament, scripture mastery verses—to make good choices and show Heavenly Father you are ready and worthy to make and keep sacred covenants and properly wear temple garments. And when that time comes, welcome it and be faithful.
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