I had a really difficult time with this talk--typically when I get talks I'm more reluctant to give them more so because I don't like speaking in front of others. But I struggled to come up with what needed to be said but how to not make it sound like I was on a soap box the whole time. Here is what I came up with....
M. Russell Ballard gave an address in the October 2001 Ensign entitled "A Doctrine of Inclusion"
"It may very well have been a beautiful, crisp autumn day like this. The Savior was sitting, teaching some of His disciples, when a man identified only as 'a certain lawyer' stood and asked Him, 'Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?'
"Jesus knew the man's heart and understood the question was a thinly veiled attempt to get Him to say something contrary to the law of Moses.
"The Savior responded to the question with two questions of His own: 'What is written in the law? how readest thou?'
"As you might expect, the lawyer was able to recite the law: 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.'
"Thou has answered right,' the Savior said. 'This do, and thou shalt live.'
"But the lawyer wasn't satisfied with that. Knowing that there were strict rules and beliefs among the Jews regarding association with those not of the faith, he pressed the Lord for more information, hoping to trap Him in controversy: 'And who is my neighbour?' he asked.
"It was time, once again, to teach. Jesus drew upon one of His favorite and most effective teaching techniques: a parable, perhaps one of the most-beloved and well-known parables in all of Christendom.
"You know the parable, how a man from Jerusalem was on his way to Jericho and fell among thieves and was left half dead. A certain priest passed by on the other side; neither did a Levite stop to help. Then Jesus taught:
"But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,
"And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him."
"Then Jesus asked the lawyer one more question: 'Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among thieves?'
"And the lawyer replied: 'He that shewed mercy on him.'
I love the Bible dictionary, you can always find really good information in it...but unfortunately it didn't have neighbor it in. So I turned instead to dictionary.com to see the definition of neighbor. It said "a person who shows kindliness or helpfulness toward his or her fellow humans OR used as a term of address, especially as a friendly greeting to a stranger." Neighbors aren't just people that you live by, but rather they are people that you associate with such as co-workers, teammates, roommates, family members, friends, etc.
Christ used the Samaritan specifically in this parable to prove his point; relations between the Jewish community and the Samaritan community were strained at best during Christs time. It's safe to say they did not run in the same social circles. Because of this, the parable had more of an impact on the lawyer--it showed him that your neighbors are anyone and everyone you interact with. "His deliberate use of Jews and Samaritans clearly teaches that we are all neighbors and that we should love, esteem, respect, and serve one another despite our deepest differences--including religious, political, and cultural differences."
In the Hymn 223 Have I Done Any Good?
" Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
Has anyone's burden been lighter today
Because I was willing to share?
Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?
When they needed my help was I there?
There are chances for work all around just now,
Opportunities right in our way.
Do not let them pass by, saying 'Sometime I'll try,'
But go and do something today,
'Tis noble of man to work and to give;
Love's labor has merit alone.
Only he who does something helps others to live.
To God each good work will be known."
I had a conversation with a friend the other day who made comment that we need to not only being doing these things on Sunday, but on every other day of the week too.
Article of Faith #11 says
"We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, we allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may."
"If we are truly disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, we will reach out with love and understanding to all of our neighbors at all times, particularly in times of need."
It all goes back to the Good Samaritan story--don't turn your back on those that are in need.
M. Russell Ballard shared a story--
"If our friendship had been put through a computer matching service, I doubt we would have made it past the first hurdle...
"...A woman with a busy medical practice, I assumed, would have little desire to discuss the color of the hospitality napkins for PTA.
"Funny thing about assumptions--they can cut away the very roots of something that could flourish and grow if given a chance. I am forever grateful that assumptions were cast aside" (Shauna Erickson, "Unlikely Friends Sharing a Lifetime," Church News, 18 Aug. 2001,10).
"Perceptions and assumptions can be very dangerous and unfair. There are some of our members who may fail to reach out with friendly smiles, warm handshakes, and loving service to all of their neighbors. At the same time, there may be those who move into our neighborhoods who are not of our faith who come with negative preconceptions about the church and its members."
I recently went out to dinner with a really good friend of mine; we've been friends since we were in middle school/high school, however she is not a member of the church. She's never had a desire to join and I have respected that decision; she is dating a member of the church and when we were out to dinner we had a chat about the Mormon religion. She asked if we were Christians, I told her that we believe in Christ and his teachings which is the definition of a Christian. She still has no desire to join the church however she also respects the fact that I have my beliefs and she has hers. While we may never agree on somethings, that is in no way going to impede our friendship.
M. Russell Ballard went on to say,
"It has never been the policy of the Church that those who choose not to listen or to accept our message should be shunned or ignored. Indeed the opposite is true. President Gordon B. Hinckley has repeatedly reminded us of this special obligation that we have as followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. I quote just one"
'Each of us is an individual. Each of us is different. There must be respect for those differences.....
'...We must work harder to build mutual respect, an attitude of forbearance, with tolerance one for another regardless of the doctrines and philosophers which we may espouse. Concerning these you and I may disagree. But we can do so with respect and civility' (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [1997], 661, 665)."
It is the differences that we should celebrate. If we were all the same people it would be boring. God gave us agency so that we could make decisions for ourselves--we have the ability to chose right from wrong, how we treat others, etc. YOU have agency to decide what YOU want to.
"As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we understand that we are perceived by some to be 'a peculiar people' (1 Peter 2:9). Our doctrine and beliefs are important to us. We embrace them and cherish them...Our peculiarity and the uniqueness of the message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ are indispensable elements in offering the people of the world a clear choice. Neither am I suggesting that we should associate in any relationship that would place us or our families at spiritual risk. We must understand, however, that not everyone is going to accept our doctrine of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ."
We need to allow people the usage of their agency; it is their choice, we must accept that and allow them to use their agency.
"That is our doctrine--a doctrine of inclusion. That is what we believe. That is what we have been taught. Of all people on this earth, we should be the most loving, the kindest, and the most tolerant because of that doctrine."
M. Russell Ballard suggested three simple things to help others feel more included.
1. "Get to know your neighbors. Learn about their families, their work, their views. Get together with them, if they are willing, and do so without being pushy and without any ulterior motives. Friendship should never be offered as a means to an end; it can and should be an end unto itself."
2. "I believe it would be good if we eliminated a couple of phrases from our vocabulary: 'nonmember' and 'non-Mormon.' Such phrases are demeaning and even belittling...[We are] Christian. [We are members] of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. That is how [we]preferred to be identified--for who and what [we are], as opposed to being identified for what [we are] not. Let us extend that same courtesy to those who live among us. If a collective description is needed, then 'neighbors' seems to work well in most cases."
3. "If neighbors become testy or frustrated because of some disagreement with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or with some law we support for moral reasons, please don't suggest to them--even in a humorous way--that they should consider moving someplace else." I think this one is directed more toward those that live in a higher concentration of Mormon's but it is still applicable to us. Do not shun others because they do not have the same beliefs as you. We teach a doctrine of inclusion--live this always.
"Just hours before He began the painful physical and spiritual processes of the Atonement, the Savior met with His Apostles to partake of the Feast of the Passover--His Last Supper--and to give them the final instructions He would give them in mortality. Among these teachings is the stirring, life-changing declaration: 'A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
'By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another' (John 13: 34-35)
"That is what Jesus taught His disciples--including "a certain lawyer"--through the parable of the good Samaritan. And that is what He is teaching us today through living prophets and apostles. Love one another. Be kind to one another despite our deepest differences. Treat one another with respect and civility."
I know that this is the true church of Christ; I am so very grateful for the blessings that this gospel has given me and all that it has helped me through. I know that Thomas S. Monson is a true prophet of the Lord, he leads and guides this church righteously. I know that Joseph Smith was a true prophet and that he did translate the Book of Mormon through the power of God. I know that Heavenly Father is mindful of us--He knows our struggles and He wants to help us if we only ask. If you don't believe me, then ask Him yourself. I know that the power of prayer really does work, if not I would not have know what to say or do for this talk. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
A Christ Centered Christmas
I was recently called as the Relief Society President in my ward. We are short a couple of teacher's right now, so I ended up teaching the lesson this Sunday. I was really excited with it being the Sunday before Christmas but wanted to make sure it wasn't necessarily your typical Christmas lesson...I don't know if I ended up accomplishing that, however I LOVED this lesson. I know it is Christmas Eve but if you have time please read it (have the Bible with you, I didn't have time to actually type out the scriptures), it's never too late to remember the reason for the season!
In the 2010 Christmas Devotional, President Uchtdorf gave a wonderful talk called "Seeing Christmas through New Eyes." He said: "There are certain words that ring like bells in my soul and remind me of the beauty and meaning of Christmas--words such as 'And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus' and, of course, 'Joy to the World!' 'Away in a Manger,' and 'Silent Night.'
There are other words, more cautionary, that are worthy of our consideration as well--words such as:
'Every Who
Down in Who-ville
Liked Christmas a lot...
But the Grinch,
Who lived just north of Who-ville,
Did NOT!'
Uchtdorf went on to say that if we were always looking for what is wrong with Christmas like the Grinch did, we will find plenty of things to complain about. However if we look at everything with a fresh perspective, "even the eyes of a child" that we will be amazed by what we find and maybe, just maybe, our hearts will being to love that which you did not before.
My senior year of high school, I worked for Sears. I remember from November 1st until December 24th, there was always Christmas music playing over the loud speaker (and usually not the good stuff; you can only hear the 12 Days of Christmas so many times before it drives you bonkers). I remember being shocked by the callousness of many people as they came into shop; everyone was so impatient that they had to wait in line--perturbed that we ran out of certain items, or fighting over things with other customers. Every night I would go home just miserable--Christmas was forever changed for me. It wasn't until this year that I was finally able to enjoy listening to Christmas music and even get into the holiday spirit.
There is a book called "A Christ-Centered Christmas" which is what most of our lesson is going to be on. Each of the seven chapters discuss a Nativity member; Mary, Joseph, the Angel, the Shepherd, the Wise Men, the Lamb, and the Christ Child.
First there is Mary; Mary reminds us to ponder....
Mary reminds us that we need to find a moment to ponder the events of that sacred night in Bethlehem. In that moment we celebrate the miracle of Christ's birth, and the gift that Heaven gave.
Luke 1: 26-56
What do these verses teach us about Mary's character? What is most important to her?
Luke 2: 5-7, 19
What do you think Mary is pondering in her heart?
Second there is Joseph; he reminds us to serve...
Joseph represents the desires of our hearts. He reminds us of the secret acts of Christmas kindness given with sacrifice and love to the broken, the weary, the lost, or the lonely.
Matthew 1:18-25
Luke 2:1-7
Take a moment to consider what it must have felt like when Joseph realized there was no room in the inn. What would you have offered Joseph and his family if you had been there? How can performing secret acts of service help to make room for the Savior in our hearts today? Does Joseph remind you of someone you know who is in need this Christmas season?
Third is the Angel; the Angel reminds us to share the joy...
The Angel embodies a heart that runneth over with the good tidings and great joy of the season. The angel is a reminder that the anticipation of good things to come should fill our hearts with warmth overflowing.
Luke 2: 9-14
What was the great joy and good tidings that the angels brought? What would the news have meant to you if you were there? What does it mean to you today? How does their announcement create feelings of anticipation in your heart? What is your favorite Christ centered carol and why is it so dear to you?
Fourth we have the Shepherd who reminds us to testify.
The Shepherd symbolizes a testimony within, an inner conviction that we have come to know Christ. The shepherd is a reminder for us to come closer to The Lord, now and with haste, and then to share our testimony with others.
Luke 2: 15-18
What can we learn from the shepherds' relationship with each other when they spoke "one to another" and went as a group to find The Lord? Consider the significance of bearing testimony of the Savior; what does your testimony mean to you?
Fifth is the wise men, they remind us to journey another way...
The Wise Men exemplify the journey each of us takes as we seek The Lord. They remind us that as we draw closer to Him, we will be led to continue our journey another way.
Matthew 2: 1-12
Discuss the lessons of the Wise Men. Focus on the privilege of their search and their ability to be spiritually sensitive. Talk about their journey and what it means to journey another way.
Sixth there is the lamb; it reminds us to give thanks...
The lamb reminds us to prepare our hearts to recognize the hand of The Lord in our life, and then, in that instant, to give thanks.
Luke 2: 25-38
Consider the lessons of Simeon and Anna; how can we prepare our heats to recognize The Lord? What are some ways that would help to make our recognition instant and our gratitude immediate? How does becoming a true follower of Christ help us to become one of His sheep?
And finally, we have the Christ Child, who reminds us to believe....
Christ reminds us to offer a gift to The Lord this Christmas season; a gift based on the true work of Christmas, one that will allow us to focus on Christ all year long.
Luke 2: 11-12
The greatest Christmas gift ever given was wrapped in swaddling clothes. Consider what that gift means to you. How has your life been blessed because of the birth of Christ? What are some of the gifts He gives?
I was so grateful to prepare for this lesson because it allowed me to really remember why we celebrate this season. It is not only a time to take out the old and bring in the new, but it's also a time to give more of yourself to others. The Lord is mindful of us in all things and loves us all very much. Thank you for taking the time to read this and ponder the questions that were asked.
Merry Christmas!
As I was sitting in Sacrament meeting, I was thinking about the word Christmas. If you break it up into two words it's Christ mas, and in Spanish mas means more...so Christmas is More Christ which I think is pretty neat if you think about it!
In the 2010 Christmas Devotional, President Uchtdorf gave a wonderful talk called "Seeing Christmas through New Eyes." He said: "There are certain words that ring like bells in my soul and remind me of the beauty and meaning of Christmas--words such as 'And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus' and, of course, 'Joy to the World!' 'Away in a Manger,' and 'Silent Night.'
There are other words, more cautionary, that are worthy of our consideration as well--words such as:
'Every Who
Down in Who-ville
Liked Christmas a lot...
But the Grinch,
Who lived just north of Who-ville,
Did NOT!'
Uchtdorf went on to say that if we were always looking for what is wrong with Christmas like the Grinch did, we will find plenty of things to complain about. However if we look at everything with a fresh perspective, "even the eyes of a child" that we will be amazed by what we find and maybe, just maybe, our hearts will being to love that which you did not before.
My senior year of high school, I worked for Sears. I remember from November 1st until December 24th, there was always Christmas music playing over the loud speaker (and usually not the good stuff; you can only hear the 12 Days of Christmas so many times before it drives you bonkers). I remember being shocked by the callousness of many people as they came into shop; everyone was so impatient that they had to wait in line--perturbed that we ran out of certain items, or fighting over things with other customers. Every night I would go home just miserable--Christmas was forever changed for me. It wasn't until this year that I was finally able to enjoy listening to Christmas music and even get into the holiday spirit.
There is a book called "A Christ-Centered Christmas" which is what most of our lesson is going to be on. Each of the seven chapters discuss a Nativity member; Mary, Joseph, the Angel, the Shepherd, the Wise Men, the Lamb, and the Christ Child.
First there is Mary; Mary reminds us to ponder....
Mary reminds us that we need to find a moment to ponder the events of that sacred night in Bethlehem. In that moment we celebrate the miracle of Christ's birth, and the gift that Heaven gave.
Luke 1: 26-56
What do these verses teach us about Mary's character? What is most important to her?
Luke 2: 5-7, 19
What do you think Mary is pondering in her heart?
Second there is Joseph; he reminds us to serve...
Joseph represents the desires of our hearts. He reminds us of the secret acts of Christmas kindness given with sacrifice and love to the broken, the weary, the lost, or the lonely.
Matthew 1:18-25
Luke 2:1-7
Take a moment to consider what it must have felt like when Joseph realized there was no room in the inn. What would you have offered Joseph and his family if you had been there? How can performing secret acts of service help to make room for the Savior in our hearts today? Does Joseph remind you of someone you know who is in need this Christmas season?
Third is the Angel; the Angel reminds us to share the joy...
The Angel embodies a heart that runneth over with the good tidings and great joy of the season. The angel is a reminder that the anticipation of good things to come should fill our hearts with warmth overflowing.
Luke 2: 9-14
What was the great joy and good tidings that the angels brought? What would the news have meant to you if you were there? What does it mean to you today? How does their announcement create feelings of anticipation in your heart? What is your favorite Christ centered carol and why is it so dear to you?
Fourth we have the Shepherd who reminds us to testify.
The Shepherd symbolizes a testimony within, an inner conviction that we have come to know Christ. The shepherd is a reminder for us to come closer to The Lord, now and with haste, and then to share our testimony with others.
Luke 2: 15-18
What can we learn from the shepherds' relationship with each other when they spoke "one to another" and went as a group to find The Lord? Consider the significance of bearing testimony of the Savior; what does your testimony mean to you?
Fifth is the wise men, they remind us to journey another way...
The Wise Men exemplify the journey each of us takes as we seek The Lord. They remind us that as we draw closer to Him, we will be led to continue our journey another way.
Matthew 2: 1-12
Discuss the lessons of the Wise Men. Focus on the privilege of their search and their ability to be spiritually sensitive. Talk about their journey and what it means to journey another way.
Sixth there is the lamb; it reminds us to give thanks...
The lamb reminds us to prepare our hearts to recognize the hand of The Lord in our life, and then, in that instant, to give thanks.
Luke 2: 25-38
Consider the lessons of Simeon and Anna; how can we prepare our heats to recognize The Lord? What are some ways that would help to make our recognition instant and our gratitude immediate? How does becoming a true follower of Christ help us to become one of His sheep?
And finally, we have the Christ Child, who reminds us to believe....
Christ reminds us to offer a gift to The Lord this Christmas season; a gift based on the true work of Christmas, one that will allow us to focus on Christ all year long.
Luke 2: 11-12
The greatest Christmas gift ever given was wrapped in swaddling clothes. Consider what that gift means to you. How has your life been blessed because of the birth of Christ? What are some of the gifts He gives?
I was so grateful to prepare for this lesson because it allowed me to really remember why we celebrate this season. It is not only a time to take out the old and bring in the new, but it's also a time to give more of yourself to others. The Lord is mindful of us in all things and loves us all very much. Thank you for taking the time to read this and ponder the questions that were asked.
Merry Christmas!
Sunday, September 8, 2013
The Atonement
The Atonement
For everyone, the Atonement is very personal. For myself, I view the Atonement as something that is constant in my life; something I have always been able to rely upon. And not only is the Atonement a way for me to be redeemed of my sins, but it is also a source of comfort. Christ suffered for our sins, but he also felt every pain and sorrow that we have felt; the Atonement offers the ultimate comfort for us. The Atonement has made me into the person that I am today and for that I am eternally grateful.
Read the following scriptures; what principle is being taught in each one? And why is that important to know?
Luke 24:36-39, 45-46
"And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.
And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?
Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have...
Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day;"
John 20:26-29
"And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.
Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.
And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou has seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed."
1 Corinthians 15:6
"After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remaim unto this present, but some are fallen asleep."
3 Nephi 11:14-15
"Arise and come forth unto me, that ye may thrust your hands into my side, and also that ye may feel the prints of the nails in my hands and in my feet, that ye may know that I am the God of Israel, and the God of the whole earth, and have been slain for the sins of the world.
And it came to pass that the multitude went forth, and thrust heir hands into his side, and did feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet; and this they did do, going forth on by one until they had all gone forth, and did see with their eyes and did feel with their hands, and did know of a surety and did bear record, that it was he, of whom it was written by the prophets, that should come."
Alma 11:42-44
"Now, there is a death which is called a temporal death; and the death of Christ shall loose the bands of this temporal death, that all shall be raised from this temporal death.
The spirit and the body shall be reunited again in its perfect form; both limb and joint shall be restored to its proper frame, even as we know now, and have a bright recollection of all our guilt.
Now, this restoration shall come to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, both the wicked and the righteous; and even there shall not so much as a hair of their heads be lost; but every thing shall be restored to its perfect frame, as it is now, or in the body, and shall be brought and be arraigned before the bar of Christ the Son, and God the Father, and the Holy Spirit, which is one Eternal God, to be judged according to their works, whether they be good or whether they be evil."
Alma 40:23
"The soul shall be restored to the body, and the body to the soul; yea, and every limb and joint shall be restored to its body; yea, even a hair of the head shall not be lost; but all things shall be restored to their proper and perfect frame."
Alma 41:2-4
"I say unto thee, my son, that the plan of restoration is requisite with the justice of God; for it is requisite that all things should be restored to their proper order. Behold, it is requisite and just, according to the power and resurrection of Christ, that the soul of man should be restored to its body, and that every part of the body should be restored to itself.
And it is requisite with the justice of God that men should be judged according to their works; and if their works were good in this life, and the desires of their hearts were good, that they should also, at the last day, be restored unto that which is good.
And if their works are evil they shall be restored unto them for evil. Therefore, all things shall be restored to their proper order, every thing to its natural frame--mortality raised to immortality, corruption to incorruption--raised to endless happiness to inherit the kingdom of God, or to endless misery to inherit the kingdom of the devil, the one on one hand, the other on the other--"
Doctrine and Covenants 29:43
"And thus did I, the Lord God, appoint unto man the days of his probation--that by his natural death he might be raised in immortality unto eternal life, even as many as would believe;"
1 Peter 1:3
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."
Alma 27:28
"And they did look upon shedding the blood of their brethren with the greatest abhorrence; and they never could be prevailed upon to take up arms against their brethren; and they never did look upon death with any degree of terror, for their hope and views of Christ and the resurrection; therefore, death was swallowed up to them by the victory of Christ over it."
08 September 2013
Stake Conference
Marcus Nash
Start with the basics-do not bite off more than you can chew. Begin with sincere prayers, regular Family Home evenings, and take your struggles one at a time. Choose one commandment or sin that you are struggling with and work on it. We cannot claim perfection in one day-take it one step at a time.
Seek to emulate Christ through all of your trials. Resist the urge to give the Lord a time table, instead have patience and endure to the end. The Lord is mindful of us all, pray to Him for strength and healing as you are going through your trials.
Carl McConkie
Through the Atonement, we may become perfect; we can be forgiven of all our sins. Do not let your faith or testimony falter because of our poor choices. The outcome for those that have chosen a path different from the Lord's is a hard road--we will be condemned by our words and actions. Our hearts can and will be changed by the power of Christ's Atonement. The Atonement not only takes away the guilt we harbor for sins we have committed, but it also helps strengthen us, forgive others, and make our burdens lighter. We can endure all things through Christ as we draw closer to Him.
Robert D. Hales
Whether you can attend the temple or not, you should make sure you are worthy to have a temple recommend. Make sure you are paying your tithing; not only is tithing your "fire insurance" but it also teaches us to not give in to worldly things--we have to learn to live not only within our means, but with 90% of what we earn. The Lord will give you immeasurable blessings if you pay your tithing. By paying your tithing, you are showing the Lord that you love Him enough to sacrifice for Him, and that you have the faith that He will take care of all of your needs.
Prayer, Family Home Evening, and Family Councils will bind your family together. In this day and age we are in a constant battle with the adversary. He finds little ways to slowly bind you to him and you find that it will be easier, and easier to give in to temptation. Be careful of the TV shows/movies that you watch in your home, or even the music that you are listening to; make sure that both are uplifting.
L. Tom Perry
"Union is strength" build up your relationships with your fellow Saints. Build up your "watch towers" and be ever mindful of the adversary and his tricks. Watch our selection of how you utilize the technology we have been given and what your read/watch; choose wholesome and uplifting materials.
Monday, March 11, 2013
3 March 2013--The Priesthood
Sunday School
What is the Priesthood?
It is the power that governs the universe. It is a delicate balance, we are all intelligent beings and must not take away other's free agency.
What do we use the Priesthood for?
We use the Priesthood for blessings such as
*Healing of the sick
*Confirmations
*Ordinations/setting apart
*Patriarchal blessings
We also use the Priesthood for saving ordinances such as baptism, sealing's in the temple, receiving revelation, and much more.
Joseph Smith History 1:68-72
"We still continued the work of translation, when, in the ensuing month (May, 1829), we on a certain day went into the woods to pray and inquire of the Lord respecting baptism for the remission of sins, that we found mentioned in the translation of the plates. While we were thus employed, praying and calling upon the Lord, a messenger from heaven descended in a cloud of light, and having laid his hands upon us, he ordained us saying:
He said this Aaronic Priesthood had not the power of laying on hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, but that this should be conferred on us hereafter; and he commanded us to go and be baptized, and gave us directions that I should baptize Oliver Cowdery, and that afterwards he should baptize me.
Accordingly we went and were baptized. I baptized him first, and afterwards he baptized me--after which I laid my hands upon his head and ordained him to the Aaronic Priesthood, and afterwards he laid his hands on me and ordained me to the same Priesthood--for so we were commanded.
The messenger who visited us on this occasion and conferred this Priesthood upon us, said that his name was John, the same that is called John the Baptist in the New Testament, and that he acted under the direction of Peter, James, and John, who held the keys of the Priesthood of Melchizedek, which Priesthood, he said, would in due time be conferred on us, and that I should be called the first Elder of the Church, and he (Oliver Cowdery) the second. It was on the fifteenth day of May, 1829, that we were ordained under the hand of this messenger, and baptized."
Joseph Smith Jr. and Oliver Cowdery went unto the Lord to receive a better understanding or baptism, because of this John the Baptist appeared unto them. He restored the Aaronic Priesthood keys to the Earth again.
Doctrine and Covenants 107:14 & 20
"Why it is called the lesser priesthood is because it is an appendage of the greater, or the Melchizedek Priesthood, and has power in administering outward ordinances...
The power and authority of the lesser, or Aaronic Priesthood, is to hold the keys of the ministering of angels, and to administer in outward ordinances, the letter of the gospel, the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, agreeable to the covenants and commandments."
Doctrine and Covenants 13:1
"Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; and this shall never be taken again from the earth; until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness."
The Priesthood will not be taken away from this earth again "until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness." What an amazing blessing for us to know that the Priesthood is not going to be taken away from the earth until the Coming of Christ!
Doctrine and Covenants 107: 18-19; 22-23
"The power and authority of the higher, or Melchizedek Priesthood, is to hold the keys of all the spiritual blessings of the church--
To have the privilege of receiving the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, to have the heavens opened unto them, to commune with the general assembly and church of the Firstborn, and to enjoy the communion and presence of God the Father, and Jesus the mediator of the new covenant...
Of the Melchizedek Priesthood, three Presiding High Priests, chosen by the body, appointed and ordained to that office, and upheld by the confidence, faith, and prayer of the church, form a quorum of the Presidency of the Church.
The twelve traveling councilors are called to be the Twelve Apostles, or special witnesses of the name of Christ in all the world--thus differing from other officers in the church in the duties of their calling."
What are the spiritual blessings of the church that you receive, even on a day to day basis?
I know for myself that I can receive answers to my own prayers; I am able to be healed from a sickness through the power of the Priesthood AND my faith. I feel/hear promptings from the Spirit as long as I am worthy and actually listening to him.
When people are put into callings, they must be sustained--the law of common consent. If you sustain individuals, pray for them and support them in their endeavors! They can feel our prayers for them and they are greatly appreciated.
Doctrine and Covenants 128: 11
"Now the great and grand secret of the whole matter, and the summon bonum of the whole subject that is lying before us, consists in obtaining the powers of the Holy Priesthood. For him to whom these keys are given there is no difficulty in obtaining a knowledge of facts in relation to the salvation of the children of men, both as well for the dead as for the living."
Keys are the directing power; Bishops have the keys to decide in what direction the ward will go. Keys are very specific, certain callings allow the priesthood to use their keys for specific things.
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Doctrine and Covenants
Doctrine and Covenants
"The Book of Mormon is the 'keystone' of our religion, and the Doctrine and Covenants is the capstone, with continuing latter-day revelation. The Lore has placed his stamp of approval on both the keystone and capstone (President Ezra Taft Benson)." The capstone on the Salt Lake City temple, is the upper portion of the ball on which Moroni stands; the Doctrine and Covenants is considered the final piece of the LDS religion. It gives us details on the organization and administration of His church that we do not find in any other scriptures. The Doctrine and Covenants is for our time; the language is more modern and easier for us to understand, you see the questions that are being asked by earlier members and then how God answers them. Many converts to the church have said that they find The Doctrine and Covenants easier to understand then either the Bible or the Book of Mormon because of the language, lack of parables and symbolism, and they can relate to it.
Modern Revelation to meet the Needs of our Day
Explanatory Introduction (of the Doctrine and Covenants) paragraph 3:
"The book of Doctrine and Covenants is one of the standard works of the Church in company with the Holy Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Pearl of Great Price. However, the Doctrine and Covenants is unique because it is not a translation of an ancient document, but is of modern origin and was given of God through his chosen prophets for the restoration of his holy work and the establishment of the kingdom of God on the earth in these days. In the revelations on hears the tender but firm voice of the Lord Jesus Christ, speaking anew in the dispensation of the fulness of times; and the work that is initiated herein is preparatory to his second coming, in fulfillment of and in concert with the words of all the holy prophets since the world began."
The Doctrine and Covenants is different from other scriptures because "it is not a translation of an ancient document." It is modern day revelation that has been given to us for OUR time to prepare us for Christ's second coming.
Explanatory Introduction paragraph 6:
"These sacred revelations were received in answer to prayer, in times of need, and came out of real-life situations involving real people. The prophet and his associates sought for divine guidance, and these revelations certify that they received it. In the revelations one sees the restoration and unfolding of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the ushering in of the dispensation of the fulness of times. The westward movement of the Church from New York to Pennsylvania, to Ohio, to Missouri, to Illinois, and finally to the Great Basin of western America, and the mighty struggles of the saints in attempting to to build Zion on the earth in modern times, are also shown forth in these revelations."
We receive these revelations "in answer to prayers" that were given when the Saints needed answers the most. These are not fictitious scenarios, but rather real people in our church's history.
Explanatory Introduction paragraph 8:
"In the revelations the doctrines of the gospel are set forth with explanations about such fundamental matters as the nature of the Godhead, the origin of man, the reality of Satan, the purpose of mortality, the necessity for obedience, the need for repentance, the workings of the Holy Spirit, the ordinances and performances that pertain to salvation, the destiny of the earth, the future conditions of man after the resurrection and the judgment, the eternity of the marriage relationship, and the eternal nature of the family. Likewise the gradual unfolding of the administrative structure of the Church is shown in the calling of bishops, the First Presidency, the Council of the Twelve, and the Seventy, and the establishment of other presiding offices and quorums. Finally, the testimony that is given of Jesus Christ--his divinity, his majesty, his perfection, his love, and his redeeming power--makes this book of great value to the human family and of more worth than the riches of the whole earth."
There are so many fundamental Gospel doctrine that can be answered in the Doctrine and Covenants; we can easily understand what we are supposed to do and when.
Doctrine and Covenants 1:1-4
"Hearken, O ye people of my church, saith the voice of him who dwells on high, and whose eyes are upon all men; yea, verily I say: Hearken ye people from afar; and ye that are upon the islands of the sea, listen together.
For verily the voice of the Lord is unto all men, and there is none to escape; and there is no eye that shall not see, neither ear that shall not hear, neither heart that shall not be penetrated.
And the rebellious shall be pierced with much sorrow; for their iniquities shall be spoken upon the housetops, and their secret acts shall be revealed.
And the voice of warning shall be unto all people, by the mouths of my disciples, whom I have chosen in these last days."
This warning is given to ALL church members not just the rebellious ones. He is telling us that if we do not do what we are supposed to for His church, He will find someone else that will.
Doctrine and Covenants 1: 23 and 30
"That the fulness of my gospel might be proclaimed by the weak and the simple unto the ends of the world, and before kings and rulers.
And also those to whom these commandments were given, might have power to lay the foundation of this church, and to bring it forth out of obscurity and out of darkness, the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well pleased, speaking unto the church collectively and not individually--"
Our destiny is to spread the Gospel throughout the WORLD. Missionaries young and old, as well as members of the church need to be participating in missionary work. "Every member a missionary!"
Doctrine and Covenants 1:37-38
"Search these commandments for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.
What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same."
We are commanded to search the commandments that have been given to us and to listen and apply what we have been taught by the leaders of our church.
Doctrine and Covenants 112:30-32
"For unto you, the Twelve, and those, the First Presidency, who are appointed with you to be your counselors and your leaders, is the power of this priesthood given, for the last days and for the last time, in the which is the dispensation of the fulness of times.
Which power you hold, in connection with all those who have received a dispensation at any time fromt he beginning of the creation;
For verily I say unto you, the keys of the dispensation, which ye have received, have come down from the fathers, and last of all, being sent down from heaven unto you."
This is the last dispensation--collectively this is it, we will not get a do over.
"Prophet's, priests and kings...have looked forward with joyful anticipation to the day in which we live; and fired with heavenly and joyful anticipations they have sung and written and prophesized of this our day; but they died without the sight; we are the favored people that God has made choice of to bring about the Latter-day glory; it is left for us to see, participate in and help roll forward the Latter-day glory, 'the dispensation of the fulness of times.'"
The Doctrine and Covenants is different from other scriptures because "it is not a translation of an ancient document." It is modern day revelation that has been given to us for OUR time to prepare us for Christ's second coming.
Explanatory Introduction paragraph 6:
"These sacred revelations were received in answer to prayer, in times of need, and came out of real-life situations involving real people. The prophet and his associates sought for divine guidance, and these revelations certify that they received it. In the revelations one sees the restoration and unfolding of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the ushering in of the dispensation of the fulness of times. The westward movement of the Church from New York to Pennsylvania, to Ohio, to Missouri, to Illinois, and finally to the Great Basin of western America, and the mighty struggles of the saints in attempting to to build Zion on the earth in modern times, are also shown forth in these revelations."
We receive these revelations "in answer to prayers" that were given when the Saints needed answers the most. These are not fictitious scenarios, but rather real people in our church's history.
Explanatory Introduction paragraph 8:
"In the revelations the doctrines of the gospel are set forth with explanations about such fundamental matters as the nature of the Godhead, the origin of man, the reality of Satan, the purpose of mortality, the necessity for obedience, the need for repentance, the workings of the Holy Spirit, the ordinances and performances that pertain to salvation, the destiny of the earth, the future conditions of man after the resurrection and the judgment, the eternity of the marriage relationship, and the eternal nature of the family. Likewise the gradual unfolding of the administrative structure of the Church is shown in the calling of bishops, the First Presidency, the Council of the Twelve, and the Seventy, and the establishment of other presiding offices and quorums. Finally, the testimony that is given of Jesus Christ--his divinity, his majesty, his perfection, his love, and his redeeming power--makes this book of great value to the human family and of more worth than the riches of the whole earth."
There are so many fundamental Gospel doctrine that can be answered in the Doctrine and Covenants; we can easily understand what we are supposed to do and when.
Doctrine and Covenants 1:1-4
"Hearken, O ye people of my church, saith the voice of him who dwells on high, and whose eyes are upon all men; yea, verily I say: Hearken ye people from afar; and ye that are upon the islands of the sea, listen together.
For verily the voice of the Lord is unto all men, and there is none to escape; and there is no eye that shall not see, neither ear that shall not hear, neither heart that shall not be penetrated.
And the rebellious shall be pierced with much sorrow; for their iniquities shall be spoken upon the housetops, and their secret acts shall be revealed.
And the voice of warning shall be unto all people, by the mouths of my disciples, whom I have chosen in these last days."
This warning is given to ALL church members not just the rebellious ones. He is telling us that if we do not do what we are supposed to for His church, He will find someone else that will.
Doctrine and Covenants 1: 23 and 30
"That the fulness of my gospel might be proclaimed by the weak and the simple unto the ends of the world, and before kings and rulers.
And also those to whom these commandments were given, might have power to lay the foundation of this church, and to bring it forth out of obscurity and out of darkness, the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well pleased, speaking unto the church collectively and not individually--"
Our destiny is to spread the Gospel throughout the WORLD. Missionaries young and old, as well as members of the church need to be participating in missionary work. "Every member a missionary!"
Doctrine and Covenants 1:37-38
"Search these commandments for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.
What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same."
We are commanded to search the commandments that have been given to us and to listen and apply what we have been taught by the leaders of our church.
Doctrine and Covenants 112:30-32
"For unto you, the Twelve, and those, the First Presidency, who are appointed with you to be your counselors and your leaders, is the power of this priesthood given, for the last days and for the last time, in the which is the dispensation of the fulness of times.
Which power you hold, in connection with all those who have received a dispensation at any time fromt he beginning of the creation;
For verily I say unto you, the keys of the dispensation, which ye have received, have come down from the fathers, and last of all, being sent down from heaven unto you."
This is the last dispensation--collectively this is it, we will not get a do over.
"Prophet's, priests and kings...have looked forward with joyful anticipation to the day in which we live; and fired with heavenly and joyful anticipations they have sung and written and prophesized of this our day; but they died without the sight; we are the favored people that God has made choice of to bring about the Latter-day glory; it is left for us to see, participate in and help roll forward the Latter-day glory, 'the dispensation of the fulness of times.'"
~President Joseph Smith Jr.
"There has never been more expected of the faithful in such a short period of time as there is for us."
~President Ezra Taft Benson
"This is the season of a thousand opportunities. It is ours to grasp and move forward. What a wonderful time it is for each of us to do his or her small part in moving the work of the Lord on its magnificent destiny."
~President Gordon B. Hinckley
This truly is the fulness of times; we were saved by our Heavenly Father to help bring in this dispensation. Each one of us knew what He had planned for us and we agreed to do it, now we need to do our part. We must constantly be prepared for this battle against Satan; he so very much wants us to be not only miserable, but he also wants us to lose our bodies. He is so envious of the fact that we have bodies and will eventually be able to reunite with our Father in Heaven with both our bodies and spirit. Don't let him win; fulfill your callings to fullest extent, read your scriptures and pray daily, and keep the Holy Ghost with you at all times!
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Gifts of the Spirit
Every single one of us has been given at least one spiritual gift from our Heavenly Father--for some it is more obvious than others what our gifts are. Some may have received more than one gift but don't fret if you feel you have one spiritual gift because you can ask Heavenly Father for more and you can develop more. In one of my Sunday School classes we were given a list entitled Gifts of the Spirit. I would like to share this with you now. The italicized words from the scriptures are gifts that have been given, you can develop, or ask Heavenly Father for.
Doctrine and Covenants 46:13-25
"To some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that he was crucified for the sins of the world.
To others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful.
And again, to some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know the differences in administration, as it will be pleasing unto the same Lord, according as the Lord will, suiting his mercies according to the conditions of the children of men.
And again, it is given by the Holy Ghost to some to know the diversities of operations, whether they be of God, that the manifestations of the SPirit may be given to every man to profit withal.
And again, verily I say unto you, to some it is given, by the Spirit of God, the word of wisdom.
To another is given the word of knowledge, that all may be taught to be wise, and to have knowledge.
And again, to some it is given to have faith to be healed.
And to others it is given to have faith to heal.
And again, to some is given the working of miracles.
And to others it is given to prophesy;
And to others the discerning of spirits,
And again, it is given to some to speak with tongues;
And to another is given the interpretation of tongues."
Moroni 10:9-16
"For behold, to on is given by the Spirit of God, that he may teach the word of wisdom;
And to another, that he may teach the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
And to another, exceedingly great faith; and to another, the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
And again, to another, that he may prophesy concerning all things;
And again, to another, the beholding of angels and ministering spirits;
And again, to another, all kinds of tongues;
And again, to another, the interpretation of languages and of divers kinds of tongues."
1 Corinthians 12:5-10
"And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
To another the working of miracles, to another prophecy; to another discerning the spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:"
Elder Marvin J. Ashton's less conspicuous gifts (October 1987 General Conference)
Doctrine and Covenants 46:13-25
"To some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that he was crucified for the sins of the world.
To others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful.
And again, to some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know the differences in administration, as it will be pleasing unto the same Lord, according as the Lord will, suiting his mercies according to the conditions of the children of men.
And again, it is given by the Holy Ghost to some to know the diversities of operations, whether they be of God, that the manifestations of the SPirit may be given to every man to profit withal.
And again, verily I say unto you, to some it is given, by the Spirit of God, the word of wisdom.
To another is given the word of knowledge, that all may be taught to be wise, and to have knowledge.
And again, to some it is given to have faith to be healed.
And to others it is given to have faith to heal.
And again, to some is given the working of miracles.
And to others it is given to prophesy;
And to others the discerning of spirits,
And again, it is given to some to speak with tongues;
And to another is given the interpretation of tongues."
Moroni 10:9-16
"For behold, to on is given by the Spirit of God, that he may teach the word of wisdom;
And to another, that he may teach the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
And to another, exceedingly great faith; and to another, the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
And again, to another, that he may prophesy concerning all things;
And again, to another, the beholding of angels and ministering spirits;
And again, to another, all kinds of tongues;
And again, to another, the interpretation of languages and of divers kinds of tongues."
1 Corinthians 12:5-10
"And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
To another the working of miracles, to another prophecy; to another discerning the spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:"
Elder Marvin J. Ashton's less conspicuous gifts (October 1987 General Conference)
- Asking
- Listening
- Hearing and using the still, small voice
- Being able to weep
- Avoiding contention
- Being agreeable
- Avoiding vain repetition
- Seeking that which is righteous
- Not passing judgment
- Looking to God for guidance
- Being a disciple
- Caring for others
- Being able to ponder
- Offering prayer
- Bearing a mighty testimony
- Receiving the Holy Ghost
Elder Boyd K. Packer (General Authority Training Meeting, 1983)
- Prophecy
- Seeing as seers see
- Revelation (prophets, seers, and revelators)
- Discernment
- Visions
- Dreams
- Visitations
- Promptings
- Ability to read thoughts (not body language)
- Administration (not to the sick, to lead Church)
- Prepare or manage events that we recognize could not be merely coincidence (genealogical work)
- Feelings
- Sensing whether a decision is right or wrong
- Healing
- Warnings
- Raising the dead
- Tongues
- Interpretation of tongues
- Translation
- Teach by the spirit
- Seeing God
All of these are gifts from our Heavenly Father for His beloved children. Use these talents; do not hide them under a bushel but rather let them shine--develop them. If we bury our gifts/talents we will remain stagnant and unchanging. We were put on this Earth to have agency, to grow, and to change. Develop your talents and ask for more of them when you are ready to develop them. Think about the talents and gifts that you have now; what are they and what can you do to develop them?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)