Question
Gramps,
As LDS members, we’re told we have a right to a patriarchal blessing in this life, and to find out what tribe we belong to. But what benefit is the blessing in the hereafter?
Grant
Answer
Grant,
The purpose of a patriarchal blessing is to give Heavenly Father a chance to speak with us as directly as possible during a very important period in our life. At the age of 18-19 when most members receive their patriarchal blessing, several important life decisions are being made. What college to attend, what major to declare, whether or not to serve a mission, or even enter military service are all coming at us at the same time.
As such, it only makes sense that Heavenly Father wants to have a word or two with us during that time. Along with finding out what tribe we belong to, we discover the things Heavenly Father wants us to think on as we make the other decisions in our lives.
The benefit, then, of a patriarchal blessing in the hereafter is in receiving all the blessings Heavenly Father has ever wanted for us. By referring to our blessing often, and pondering those words, we draw closer to Heavenly Father. This only helps us on the path of Christ as we seek to return to heaven at the end of our mortal lives.
Gramps
