I’m amazed when I see the size of some of these trees and how it’s even possible for wind to be strong enough to bring them down.

I’ve always just assumed that these trees would be cut up and taken away. The thought has never crossed my mind that it might actually be possible to restore the tree.

But that was precisely the situation that Elder S. Mark Palmer of the Presidency of the Seventy in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints described during his talk at the April general conference of the church.

The situation explained was part of a larger message by Elder Palmer that encouraged those who have left the church to not assume it is too late to return.

“My message today is especially to all who once felt the Spirit but question whether there is a way back or a place for you in the restored Church of Jesus Christ,” Elder Palmer said. “It is also for any who are barely hanging on or who are tempted to step away.

“This message is not a challenge, and it is not a condemnation. It is an invitation, extended with love and a sincere desire to welcome you back to your spiritual home.

I have prayed that you will feel the witness of the Holy Ghost as you now hear this loving invitation and magnificent promise from our Savior, Jesus Christ:

“Will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?”

Ryan Comer, Standard-Examiner

Elder Palmer’s message was impactful for me personally because it led me to reflect on a period of time when I had not been as committed to living the gospel as I know I should have been but then chose to change.

Increasing my discipleship came with challenges, many of which Elder Palmer articulated in his talk, but as Elder Palmer promised would happen to those who returned, my faith was strengthened and my peace and joy were increased.

It was worth it, as he said it would be.

The allegory of the tree

“We once lived in a home surrounded by majestic trees,” Elder Palmer said to start his talk. “Next to the entrance was a beautiful willow tree. One sad night a mighty storm blew, and the willow came crashing down. It lay on the ground with its roots pulled out and was a sorry sight.

“I was ready to rev up the chainsaw and cut the tree up for firewood when our neighbor came running out to stop me. He chastised me for giving up on the tree, and he emphatically urged us not to get rid of it. He then pointed to one root still in the ground and said that if we propped the tree up, cut off its branches, and nourished it, the roots would take hold once again.

“I was skeptical and doubted how a tree so obviously fallen and in trouble could possibly survive and come back to life. I reasoned that even if it did begin growing again, it would surely not survive the next storm. But knowing our neighbor believed the tree still had a future, we went along with the plan.

“And the result? After some time, we saw signs of life as the tree began to take root. Now, 12 years later, the tree is vibrant and full of life, with strong roots, and once again contributing to the beauty of the landscape.”

Saints like the tree

The experience with the tree reminded Elder Palmer of Latter-day Saints he has met around the world.

“Some once had testimonies of the gospel that were strong and vibrant like the willow. Then, for uniquely personal reasons, those testimonies became weakened, leading to a loss of faith. Others hang on with the slimmest of roots tapping into gospel soil.

“Yet again and again, I am inspired by the stories of so many who have chosen to renew their discipleship and come back to their Church home. Rather than discarding their faith and belief like worthless firewood, instead they have responded to spiritual promptings and loving invitations to return.”

Elder Palmer shared various experiences and extended invitations to return. He promised that “faith can be strengthened as you once again worship with the Saints” and said returning allows one to “once again taste the joyous fruit of the gospel.”

Lessons from the tree

For those contemplating “the Savior’s invitation to return unto Him,” Elder Palmer shared five lessons from the experience with the willow tree.

First, he said:

“The journey back is often not easy or comfortable, but it is worth it. When our willow was stood back up, all its branches were cut away. It was not pretty. We too may feel vulnerable as we discard old ways and are stripped of pride. Focusing your faith on Jesus Christ and His gospel–the trunk and the roots–will give you the hope and the courage to take that first step back.”

Second, Elder Palmer said:

“It took many years for our willow to regain its former strength and beauty. Now it is even stronger and more beautiful than before. Be patient as your faith and testimony also grow. This includes not taking offense at thoughtless comments like ‘Where have you been all these years?'”

Third, he said:

“The willow would never have survived without constant care and nourishment. You will nourish your faith and your testimony as you feast at the sacrament table each week and as you worship in the house of the Lord.”

Fourth, Elder Palmer said:

“Just as the willow needed sunshine for its branches and leaves to grow again, so your testimony will grow as you stay sensitive to the feelings and the witness of the Spirit. Learn from Amulek, who described his time as a less-active member by saying, ‘I was called many times and I would not hear.'”

Finally, he said:

“My neighbor knew what the willow could once again become. So too the Lord knows your divine potential and what your faith and your testimony can become. He will never give up on you. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, all that is broken can be healed.”

Conclusion

Elder Palmer concluded his talk by saying:

“I witness that there is rejoicing in heaven over those who return. You are needed, and you are loved. I testify that Jesus Christ is our Savior and that He blesses all who return unto Him with greater peace and with great joy. His arms of mercy are not folded but are open and extended to you. It is not too late for you to come back. With all the love in our hearts, we welcome you home. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.”