I have always enjoyed the passage "Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God" (D&C 18:10). Every person is important to God. No one is left behind. He treats us all equally and gives us all blessings. Sometimes, we do not see those blessings right away.
Sometimes, I have to look deep for blessings. With the changes going on in my life, sometimes I feel like an outcast. Like, no one understands where I come from. Even if no one understands, our Lord Christ does. And at times, I do not feel worthy to be in the presence of our Lord.
Continuing in Doctrine and Covenants, we see: "And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!" (D&D 18:15).
Today in sacrament, I was studying in James and came across this scripture: "Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins" (James 5:19-20). Again, it occured to me. The scriptures are designed to be used together. Each part is half of a whole, so to speak. And it also came to me (again) that the one soul we should be saving is our own. Christ is ready to forgive us if we ask him. We can get back on the path and return home. And the more souls we bring by crying repentance, how happy we will be in that day, being with each other.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Where Are You Going?
I am out in Denmark with my lovely wife for our anniversary. It is thus far a wonderful experience. I am sorry I have not updated my blog recently. I have been feeling down about myself due to my limitations and have felt burdened by them.
In Denmark, people speak Danish, full of long street names (like Løjtegårdsvej 99 - which is our hotel address) and hard to pronounce. I do have a decent understanding of Danish as that is where I was called for my mission several years ago (before most of you probably started high school). The good news is that 99% of the Danes speak English and are willing to help you. So, Laura and I leave our hotel this morning and head from Kastrup to downtown Copenhagen (by bus it was about 20 minutes - 7 or so kilometers). We did not have any real plans - we pulled up many ideas of what we wanted to do. Canal rides, bus tours, seeing castles, all the good tourist stuff. We ended up seeing lots!
We came across the canal rides by accident, just choose a random destination off the bus and started walking. We ditched the boat (it had one stop at the very end, but offered to take you back to the start at no charge with your ticket) and decided to walk it. We saw this amazing Catholic Church (check out facebook next week when we upload the pics). We first decided to skip the Little Mermaid Statue - which is one of the highest tourist places and the boat stopped right at it. It was like destiny. Again, those pics will be coming. We saw Rosenberg Castle and the grounds which were not like a castle as I thought (no towering ramparts, no gallows) but was awesome. We even saw a Nordstroms that had some 7-8 floors to it! Everyday at noon, at the castle, the changing of the guards take place. We had no idea where that was, but at like 11:55, we were in the right spot (and I have a 12ish minute video in high def of it).
So, everything was falling into place. All things that we had not planned to do was just fitting perfectly. Way awesome! Well, until we get to go on the bus to get back to our hotel. I remember busses going in circles. You can get on at one stop and keep riding. Apparently, there are final stops here. And Laura tells me busses in the States have final stops as well (remind you, I have not taken a bus in probably 20 years). So, I ask the bus driver how to get to Kastrup, he tells me to take this other bus (we took 350 to get out there, he tells us to take 5A to get back). Well, 5A dead ended at the airport, which is about 2.2 km from the hotel. And 5A was almost 2 times expensive as the other bus. I tell Laura we are ditching the bus, I can remember how to get back to the hotel.
I do have a good memory. My family will vouche for that. I can remember things that happened on specific days, specific times, specific routes that were taken and were asked of me to remember. I have close to an identic memory. Not trying to brag as with my condition lately, I have sometimes forgotten my name, who my wife was and where I am going. Back to topic, I recalled how our taxi driver got to the hotel. Kinda. He used the freeway and we were on foot. Laura was upset, tired and we wanted to get to the temple tonight before it got too dark. That is not going to happen due to my error.
I did not take a wrong turn, but I should have listened and took the other bus, the 350, just heading in the opposite direction. I did not listen to my wife. We spent like 2+ hours on the bus, then like 40 minutes walking back to the hotel. Yes, I knew the way. Landmarks marked the way for me. Yes, there were times that I thought I was lost. Then, I saw a restaurant and knew I was on the right road. It was like the Holy Ghost. When you get lost, as it will happen in life, or get stressed, or have no idea what you need to do, the Lord will give you a landmark and you will know where to go. You may be on foot, you may be delayed by several hours. You may have to put off the temple for a day. But the Lord is there for you. And today he gave me a sign I could not deny. There is no doubt it is his will I sit here now and share this story. And yes, my feet hurt. No scripture reference for this posting as it was on the whim and I wanted to share a personal experience as it is still fresh (I literally walked into the room and started typing this).
In Denmark, people speak Danish, full of long street names (like Løjtegårdsvej 99 - which is our hotel address) and hard to pronounce. I do have a decent understanding of Danish as that is where I was called for my mission several years ago (before most of you probably started high school). The good news is that 99% of the Danes speak English and are willing to help you. So, Laura and I leave our hotel this morning and head from Kastrup to downtown Copenhagen (by bus it was about 20 minutes - 7 or so kilometers). We did not have any real plans - we pulled up many ideas of what we wanted to do. Canal rides, bus tours, seeing castles, all the good tourist stuff. We ended up seeing lots!
We came across the canal rides by accident, just choose a random destination off the bus and started walking. We ditched the boat (it had one stop at the very end, but offered to take you back to the start at no charge with your ticket) and decided to walk it. We saw this amazing Catholic Church (check out facebook next week when we upload the pics). We first decided to skip the Little Mermaid Statue - which is one of the highest tourist places and the boat stopped right at it. It was like destiny. Again, those pics will be coming. We saw Rosenberg Castle and the grounds which were not like a castle as I thought (no towering ramparts, no gallows) but was awesome. We even saw a Nordstroms that had some 7-8 floors to it! Everyday at noon, at the castle, the changing of the guards take place. We had no idea where that was, but at like 11:55, we were in the right spot (and I have a 12ish minute video in high def of it).
So, everything was falling into place. All things that we had not planned to do was just fitting perfectly. Way awesome! Well, until we get to go on the bus to get back to our hotel. I remember busses going in circles. You can get on at one stop and keep riding. Apparently, there are final stops here. And Laura tells me busses in the States have final stops as well (remind you, I have not taken a bus in probably 20 years). So, I ask the bus driver how to get to Kastrup, he tells me to take this other bus (we took 350 to get out there, he tells us to take 5A to get back). Well, 5A dead ended at the airport, which is about 2.2 km from the hotel. And 5A was almost 2 times expensive as the other bus. I tell Laura we are ditching the bus, I can remember how to get back to the hotel.
I do have a good memory. My family will vouche for that. I can remember things that happened on specific days, specific times, specific routes that were taken and were asked of me to remember. I have close to an identic memory. Not trying to brag as with my condition lately, I have sometimes forgotten my name, who my wife was and where I am going. Back to topic, I recalled how our taxi driver got to the hotel. Kinda. He used the freeway and we were on foot. Laura was upset, tired and we wanted to get to the temple tonight before it got too dark. That is not going to happen due to my error.
I did not take a wrong turn, but I should have listened and took the other bus, the 350, just heading in the opposite direction. I did not listen to my wife. We spent like 2+ hours on the bus, then like 40 minutes walking back to the hotel. Yes, I knew the way. Landmarks marked the way for me. Yes, there were times that I thought I was lost. Then, I saw a restaurant and knew I was on the right road. It was like the Holy Ghost. When you get lost, as it will happen in life, or get stressed, or have no idea what you need to do, the Lord will give you a landmark and you will know where to go. You may be on foot, you may be delayed by several hours. You may have to put off the temple for a day. But the Lord is there for you. And today he gave me a sign I could not deny. There is no doubt it is his will I sit here now and share this story. And yes, my feet hurt. No scripture reference for this posting as it was on the whim and I wanted to share a personal experience as it is still fresh (I literally walked into the room and started typing this).
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Deadly Sin?
We all know what the Cardinal Sins are (or we should know). Some of us may know them as the seven deadly sins or capital vices. Luxuria, Gula, Acedia, Ira, Invidia, Avaritia, and Superbia. These are, of course, according to the great work of Dante and his Divine Comedy. Translated, we know these to represent lust, gluttony, sloth, wrath, envy, greed, and pride. Now, we could argue the presence of more than 7 "deadly" sins and also contrary and wrap them into one category: pride.
Now, I know a lot of you will differ with this from me, but I firmly believe that all sin can be retraced back to pride. We sin against God to perhaps show that we are better than He, that we not need Him. Again, you may argue that we sin because we simply make a mistake or misunderstand. But given to all men is the Light of Christ, to know good and evil, right and wrong (Moroni 7:16). We cannot be naive simply because we refuse to believe.
Consciously, man knows he needs God. But there is that doubt that everyone gets everyone now and then. That attitude that I can do it, I can do better than what I have been given. Now, do not mistake my words, brothers and sisters. I am not here to dissuade you from progression. I want you to have your self-pride, which I shall call self-spirit - the spirit to lift up your voice and praise Him. The spirit to excel in your work, in your daily activities. This is not pride. This is just bettering yourself. Pride comes from the adversary - he wants us to be miserable like unto himself (2 Nephi 2:27). He will plant those thoughts that we do not need help. That we can be prideful. And he starts with the small things.
I love when Jacob says "O that ye would listen unto the word of [God's] commands, and let not this pride of your hearts destroy your souls!" (Jacob 2:16). How true is that today? So, going back to the other sins and linking them to pride as the root of all sins:
Lust - for as one lusts after another, he believes he is above God's eternal law that "thou shalt not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14).
Gluttony - we show pride in that we are in the world. Gluttony is to eat abundantly, or in excess. I can think of hedonism, where people are fat and show that they are better than themselves and mock others who do not partake. "Eat, drink, and be merry... for tomorrow we die" (2 Nephi 28:8).
Sloth - How many people lay around and expect to be taken care of? Granted, there are those with disabilities, which are not their fault, but people need to work and take care of themselves. Again, we are told "six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work" (Exodus 20:9). When have you become too above the Lord's commandments to do work?
Wrath - How many wars have been waged for land, for money, for power or dominance? To show that you are superior to someone else? I think "thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13) can even be rephrased to be peaceful one unto another (referrence Ephesians 6:18).
Envy - They say that all sin starts with a thought. What more to lust after something that you are envious of? Would not lust be the epitome of envy? Envy would lead (possibly) to stealing and we know "thou shalt not steal" (Exodus 20:15) but what about "thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife... manservant... ox... nor anything that is thy neighbor's" (Exodus 20:17). We are envious for we are prideful.
Greed - Again, this goes hand in hand with lust and envy. Perhaps even wrath. They say money is the root of all evil, but I disagree. Behind the greed is pride. The pride to be better and have more. We are warned even by Jacob: "Before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the Kingdom of God. And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ [or, removed pride from oneself], ye shall obtain riches... for the intent to do good" (Jacob 2:18-19).
I love how President Dieter F. Uchtdorf said: "Pride is a switch that turns off priesthood power. Humility is a switch that turns it on" (Oct 2010 Gen Conference - "Pride and the Priesthood"). How many times have we seen the yo-yo effect of nations rise and fall. They rise when they are close to God, then become prideful and no longer need him and fall. Then, when all seems to be lost, the righteous gather and rebuild a kingdom. I see that kingdom coming closer and closer.
Sorry for the long blog. This is a great topic dear to me and I can continue to go on and on. I have about 6-7 other references I did not touch. For more info, please comment. If you want to discuss a topic, let me know!
Now, I know a lot of you will differ with this from me, but I firmly believe that all sin can be retraced back to pride. We sin against God to perhaps show that we are better than He, that we not need Him. Again, you may argue that we sin because we simply make a mistake or misunderstand. But given to all men is the Light of Christ, to know good and evil, right and wrong (Moroni 7:16). We cannot be naive simply because we refuse to believe.
Consciously, man knows he needs God. But there is that doubt that everyone gets everyone now and then. That attitude that I can do it, I can do better than what I have been given. Now, do not mistake my words, brothers and sisters. I am not here to dissuade you from progression. I want you to have your self-pride, which I shall call self-spirit - the spirit to lift up your voice and praise Him. The spirit to excel in your work, in your daily activities. This is not pride. This is just bettering yourself. Pride comes from the adversary - he wants us to be miserable like unto himself (2 Nephi 2:27). He will plant those thoughts that we do not need help. That we can be prideful. And he starts with the small things.
I love when Jacob says "O that ye would listen unto the word of [God's] commands, and let not this pride of your hearts destroy your souls!" (Jacob 2:16). How true is that today? So, going back to the other sins and linking them to pride as the root of all sins:
Lust - for as one lusts after another, he believes he is above God's eternal law that "thou shalt not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14).
Gluttony - we show pride in that we are in the world. Gluttony is to eat abundantly, or in excess. I can think of hedonism, where people are fat and show that they are better than themselves and mock others who do not partake. "Eat, drink, and be merry... for tomorrow we die" (2 Nephi 28:8).
Sloth - How many people lay around and expect to be taken care of? Granted, there are those with disabilities, which are not their fault, but people need to work and take care of themselves. Again, we are told "six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work" (Exodus 20:9). When have you become too above the Lord's commandments to do work?
Wrath - How many wars have been waged for land, for money, for power or dominance? To show that you are superior to someone else? I think "thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13) can even be rephrased to be peaceful one unto another (referrence Ephesians 6:18).
Envy - They say that all sin starts with a thought. What more to lust after something that you are envious of? Would not lust be the epitome of envy? Envy would lead (possibly) to stealing and we know "thou shalt not steal" (Exodus 20:15) but what about "thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife... manservant... ox... nor anything that is thy neighbor's" (Exodus 20:17). We are envious for we are prideful.
Greed - Again, this goes hand in hand with lust and envy. Perhaps even wrath. They say money is the root of all evil, but I disagree. Behind the greed is pride. The pride to be better and have more. We are warned even by Jacob: "Before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the Kingdom of God. And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ [or, removed pride from oneself], ye shall obtain riches... for the intent to do good" (Jacob 2:18-19).
I love how President Dieter F. Uchtdorf said: "Pride is a switch that turns off priesthood power. Humility is a switch that turns it on" (Oct 2010 Gen Conference - "Pride and the Priesthood"). How many times have we seen the yo-yo effect of nations rise and fall. They rise when they are close to God, then become prideful and no longer need him and fall. Then, when all seems to be lost, the righteous gather and rebuild a kingdom. I see that kingdom coming closer and closer.
Sorry for the long blog. This is a great topic dear to me and I can continue to go on and on. I have about 6-7 other references I did not touch. For more info, please comment. If you want to discuss a topic, let me know!
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Kolob
I have had some thinking about Kolob recently and other theories, some which most think are controversonal to our way of life. This posting is by no means doctrine, but rather information that I find to be plausible. We can all speculate, but in the interim of this world, I believe that we may never know an answer until the day comes for our salvation.
I have heard many tales that the "6 days" that it took God to create the Earth was that of Kolo days. For one day on Kolob is equal to be 1000 Earthly years (Abraham 3:4). So, a few conclusions about this: The 7th day was a day of rest - the millenium will be 1000 years of peace - representing a day in Kolob. The Earth was developed over the space of 6000 years. Now, because there was no light or darkness, the first day could have been any length of time.
Some have speculated (Elder Bruce R. McConkie) that the first day was any length of time. And that the earth was created around Kolob and then during the first day placed here upon it current realm of existence. Arguably so, one could speculate that the Garden of Eden was there upon the Earth when it was near unto Kolob and then when Adam and Eve partook of the fruit forbidden, the Earth was then plucked out of the orbit of Kolob and placed here for it's trial period. Perhaps when the day comes for the Second Coming, Earth will be as the Garden of Eden and again resume it's place near unto Kolob.
Some have also thought about Kolob being a metaphor for Jesus Christ. Kolob "nearest unto the throne of God; and there were many great ones which were near unto it; And the Lord said unto me: These are the governing ones; and the great one is Kolob, because it is near unto me, for I am the Lord thy God: I have set this one to govern all... And God saw these souls that they were good, and he stood in the midst of them, and he said: These will I make my rulers... and there stood one among them that was like unto God" (Abraham 3:2-3, 23-24).
Perhaps Kolob was where we came from and perhaps it is a name to represent Christ as he has many names. The scriptures are full of metaphors and we are all entitled to interpret them how we will. I found documents where some people speculate that Kolob is Polaris (the North Star) that governs our directions. As always, I look forward to critism and other thoughts. I also feel that the scripture "draw near unto me and I shall draw near unto you" could define this as bringing Kolob back to it's proper, celestial state. Again, this has been something on my mind for quite some time and I was waiting for the most appropiate time to discuss it.
I have heard many tales that the "6 days" that it took God to create the Earth was that of Kolo days. For one day on Kolob is equal to be 1000 Earthly years (Abraham 3:4). So, a few conclusions about this: The 7th day was a day of rest - the millenium will be 1000 years of peace - representing a day in Kolob. The Earth was developed over the space of 6000 years. Now, because there was no light or darkness, the first day could have been any length of time.
Some have speculated (Elder Bruce R. McConkie) that the first day was any length of time. And that the earth was created around Kolob and then during the first day placed here upon it current realm of existence. Arguably so, one could speculate that the Garden of Eden was there upon the Earth when it was near unto Kolob and then when Adam and Eve partook of the fruit forbidden, the Earth was then plucked out of the orbit of Kolob and placed here for it's trial period. Perhaps when the day comes for the Second Coming, Earth will be as the Garden of Eden and again resume it's place near unto Kolob.
Some have also thought about Kolob being a metaphor for Jesus Christ. Kolob "nearest unto the throne of God; and there were many great ones which were near unto it; And the Lord said unto me: These are the governing ones; and the great one is Kolob, because it is near unto me, for I am the Lord thy God: I have set this one to govern all... And God saw these souls that they were good, and he stood in the midst of them, and he said: These will I make my rulers... and there stood one among them that was like unto God" (Abraham 3:2-3, 23-24).
Perhaps Kolob was where we came from and perhaps it is a name to represent Christ as he has many names. The scriptures are full of metaphors and we are all entitled to interpret them how we will. I found documents where some people speculate that Kolob is Polaris (the North Star) that governs our directions. As always, I look forward to critism and other thoughts. I also feel that the scripture "draw near unto me and I shall draw near unto you" could define this as bringing Kolob back to it's proper, celestial state. Again, this has been something on my mind for quite some time and I was waiting for the most appropiate time to discuss it.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Iron Rod
There have been many things on my mind recently. I had the chance this weekend to go camping with one of my greatest friends, Nate, and his family. We spent Friday thru Monday together at Bear Lake. There was swimming, volleyball, fourwheeling and lots of talking around the campfire.
Then, on Sunday, I had a really bad attack of seizures. I could not stand up without the help of my wife. And during this time (in which we missed church due to this), I thought much about that Tree of Life in Lehi's dream. I thought how my children would be raised - will they be as strong as Nephi doing what the Lord asks without question (1 Nephi 3:7) or be as Laman, steadfast and unmoving?
I came across a great quote by Elder Richard G. Scott: "If you have determined to live righteously, don't become discouraged. Life may seem difficult now, but hold on tightly to that iron rod of truth. You are makingg better progress than you realize."
So, while sometimes it is hard and we come across that river, the house of the partiers, lost in darkness that there is still hope. No one is completely out of the game. Help each other find that rod and I hope that when we do find it, we can hold fast with both hands and progress to our eternal happiness.
Then, on Sunday, I had a really bad attack of seizures. I could not stand up without the help of my wife. And during this time (in which we missed church due to this), I thought much about that Tree of Life in Lehi's dream. I thought how my children would be raised - will they be as strong as Nephi doing what the Lord asks without question (1 Nephi 3:7) or be as Laman, steadfast and unmoving?
I came across a great quote by Elder Richard G. Scott: "If you have determined to live righteously, don't become discouraged. Life may seem difficult now, but hold on tightly to that iron rod of truth. You are makingg better progress than you realize."
So, while sometimes it is hard and we come across that river, the house of the partiers, lost in darkness that there is still hope. No one is completely out of the game. Help each other find that rod and I hope that when we do find it, we can hold fast with both hands and progress to our eternal happiness.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Faith
This is along the lines of missionary work and previous talks/blogs about planting those seeds of faith. I was recently thinking about the members of the Church versus the amount of people in the world. The difficulty that our missionaries have to bring in new people to the Church.
It is that mysterious, wonderful manifestiation of faith that brings reassurance, certainty, and it comes as a gift from God. It is only through faith that we may know the truth of all things. Faith leads to the Holy Spirit, which bears witness of Christ and all things good. And faith is needed for everyday trials - whether it be our mission, our tithing, obeying the word of wisdom. Hold to your faith and ye shall prevail. For further reading, I would recommend reading Alma 32 and James 2:26.
I am not surprised that comparatively few people join the Church from among the large number on whom the missionaries call. There is no faith. On the other hand, I am amazed that so many do. It is a marvelous and wonderful thing that thousands are touched by the miracle of the Holy Spirit, that they believe and accept and become members. They are baptized. Their lives are forever touched for good. Miracles occur. A seed of faith comes into their hearts. It enlarges as they learn. And they accept principle upon principle, until they have everyone of these marvelous blessings that come to those who walk with faith in this, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
It is faith that is the converter. It is faith that is the teacher.
It is that mysterious, wonderful manifestiation of faith that brings reassurance, certainty, and it comes as a gift from God. It is only through faith that we may know the truth of all things. Faith leads to the Holy Spirit, which bears witness of Christ and all things good. And faith is needed for everyday trials - whether it be our mission, our tithing, obeying the word of wisdom. Hold to your faith and ye shall prevail. For further reading, I would recommend reading Alma 32 and James 2:26.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Work
So, many of you know that I am not happy with my work. I am starting school next week and hopefully will be done in about 18 months. Then, hopefully I can find a career in which I will be happy.
Recently, I was reading in Gospel Principles and came across a chapter about work and personal responsibility. There is a story I want to share from there about our attitude towards work:
A traveler passed a stone quarry and saw three men working. He asked each man what he was doing. "I am cutting stone," the first man answered. The second replied, "I am earning 3 gold pieces per day." The third man smiled and said, "I am helping to build a house of God."
How many times has our attitude been "I am earning so much money by doing this job"? I know that has been my attitude for probably several years now. So, after reading that story, I want to ask ourselves how we are helping to build a kingdom of our Heavenly Father in our daily, honest work? Even if we are only providing enough for our personal and family necessities, we are still helping some of God's children.
A Nephite prophet, King Benjamin, preached that "when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God" (Mosiah 2:17). So, even though my work is not the greatest, I am hoping that this gives me strength to know that I can strive to do better and have that attitude of building a kingdom of heaven here on Earth.
Recently, I was reading in Gospel Principles and came across a chapter about work and personal responsibility. There is a story I want to share from there about our attitude towards work:
A traveler passed a stone quarry and saw three men working. He asked each man what he was doing. "I am cutting stone," the first man answered. The second replied, "I am earning 3 gold pieces per day." The third man smiled and said, "I am helping to build a house of God."
How many times has our attitude been "I am earning so much money by doing this job"? I know that has been my attitude for probably several years now. So, after reading that story, I want to ask ourselves how we are helping to build a kingdom of our Heavenly Father in our daily, honest work? Even if we are only providing enough for our personal and family necessities, we are still helping some of God's children.
A Nephite prophet, King Benjamin, preached that "when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God" (Mosiah 2:17). So, even though my work is not the greatest, I am hoping that this gives me strength to know that I can strive to do better and have that attitude of building a kingdom of heaven here on Earth.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Music
I wanted to add a second blog this week. A short thought about music. Lately, I have been having an urge to compose something for our ward choir. Our choir director, which happens to be our bishop's wife and lives directly across the street from us, thought it was inspiration. I think it was more of my stubborness to put something together in music about my feelings for the Savior.
So, for several months, many songs have gone through my head. "Abide with me, 'Tis Eventide." "I Stand All Amazed." "Master the Tempest is Raging." "Where can I Turn for Peace?" And probably a few dozen more.
To backtrack about 15 years, there was a missionary in my ward who did a composition of "Where Can I turn for Peace?" and "More Holiness Give Me" and we sang a duet. It turned out beautifully, despite my lack of talent of singing.
So, I approached the director and positioned my idea. She loved it! We have some small kinks to work out, I want to also add some interlude piano between each verse. However, it is way complicated and I will have to either transcribe one song into another key or find it already done. I do not want to give any much details as there are many to work out, but we are hoping to have our choir ready by January. I am hoping to be up to par to play the piano portion (maybe even do a organ verse with piano background?). Just some thoughts here. And a scripture to go along with it: "For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yes, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads" (D&C 25:12).
So, for several months, many songs have gone through my head. "Abide with me, 'Tis Eventide." "I Stand All Amazed." "Master the Tempest is Raging." "Where can I Turn for Peace?" And probably a few dozen more.
To backtrack about 15 years, there was a missionary in my ward who did a composition of "Where Can I turn for Peace?" and "More Holiness Give Me" and we sang a duet. It turned out beautifully, despite my lack of talent of singing.
So, I approached the director and positioned my idea. She loved it! We have some small kinks to work out, I want to also add some interlude piano between each verse. However, it is way complicated and I will have to either transcribe one song into another key or find it already done. I do not want to give any much details as there are many to work out, but we are hoping to have our choir ready by January. I am hoping to be up to par to play the piano portion (maybe even do a organ verse with piano background?). Just some thoughts here. And a scripture to go along with it: "For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yes, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads" (D&C 25:12).
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Eternity
I have no idea what I have done to deserve the wife that I have. She tolerates me during my down times, comforts me when saddened, and allows me to have fun with my friends. It also put a perspective recently into my Eternal Happiness. I cannot ask for anyone better for myself.
Even with this, we have our trials. Everyone does. It is only "natural" (see previous posting on the natural man) to have hardships, fights, and differences. While this does define one as a person, together we must draw closer to our Heavenly Father and overcome that naturalness.
The adversary does not want us to be Eternal. He knows that to make "all men... be miserable like unto himself" (2 Nephi 2:27) he must deprive us of family relationships that have eternal potential. We must strive daily to make it work. I have always enjoyed that Mormonism that stated "I never said it would be easy: I only said it would be worth it."
And should we fail, we must remember: "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10). As each of us grow closer to our Father, we must also grow together. Have one goal, atone and be at one. And while Laura and I have our differences, I am so very grateful that we strive for our eternal happiness together.
Even with this, we have our trials. Everyone does. It is only "natural" (see previous posting on the natural man) to have hardships, fights, and differences. While this does define one as a person, together we must draw closer to our Heavenly Father and overcome that naturalness.
The adversary does not want us to be Eternal. He knows that to make "all men... be miserable like unto himself" (2 Nephi 2:27) he must deprive us of family relationships that have eternal potential. We must strive daily to make it work. I have always enjoyed that Mormonism that stated "I never said it would be easy: I only said it would be worth it."
And should we fail, we must remember: "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10). As each of us grow closer to our Father, we must also grow together. Have one goal, atone and be at one. And while Laura and I have our differences, I am so very grateful that we strive for our eternal happiness together.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Spiritual Light
I have used this metaphor in the past, mostly when growing up. Everyone is given the Light of Christ, "that he may know good from evil" (Moroni 7:16). Nobody is excluded from this gift. Yet, it is only through the "power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things" (Moroni 10:5).
I like to think of this as a completely dark place: image a forest, late night, cloudy and no light coming from the moon or stars. Now, try to find your way home. This is life. We are going to stumble, we are going to fall, scrap our knees and at times, it will feel like we are not getting anywhere. There may be times when we give up.
However, while we walk that dark path - even off the path at times - the Light of Christ shows us the way. Just for a brief second. Maybe the clouds part and the moonlight comes thru. Maybe it is a beacon, lighthouse, far off in the distance, that gives us a glimpse of our surroundings. Maybe a lightning bolt. Something lights up around us to show us the way. Everyone has that blessing.
Now, the "Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion" (D&C 121:46). He will be that flashlight in our dark journey. And while we will sometimes choose to turn off our flashlight and travel in the dark, those with this gift can repent and have use of the flashlight again, making our journey back home easier. I bless that we all remember that companion and listen closely for him.
I like to think of this as a completely dark place: image a forest, late night, cloudy and no light coming from the moon or stars. Now, try to find your way home. This is life. We are going to stumble, we are going to fall, scrap our knees and at times, it will feel like we are not getting anywhere. There may be times when we give up.
However, while we walk that dark path - even off the path at times - the Light of Christ shows us the way. Just for a brief second. Maybe the clouds part and the moonlight comes thru. Maybe it is a beacon, lighthouse, far off in the distance, that gives us a glimpse of our surroundings. Maybe a lightning bolt. Something lights up around us to show us the way. Everyone has that blessing.
Now, the "Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion" (D&C 121:46). He will be that flashlight in our dark journey. And while we will sometimes choose to turn off our flashlight and travel in the dark, those with this gift can repent and have use of the flashlight again, making our journey back home easier. I bless that we all remember that companion and listen closely for him.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Glass half full?
Many people have often asked that age old question: is the glass half full of water or half empty? To inquire if you are a pessimist or an optimist. But, there is another glass ready to fill. This is your spiritual needs glass.
I have learned with teaching primary that youth have quite a spirit with them. In our class, we have a few who thirst after that knowledge of the scriptures. And I realized that they have a glass and I have a glass. While going to church, reading the scriptures, prayer, these things help fill our spiritual glass.
Then, there are things that help drain your glass. Worldly things, such as stress from work, bills, school. Or, in my case, family. After losing my cousin a month ago or so, my neice had her child, then was put into the hospital 2 days after and nearly died. This all helps drain that storage. And learn to "cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee" (Psalms 55:22).
I have learned that over time, my glass - perhaps due to age - is becoming quite large. And the same things are not filling it. I constantly thirst for more knowledge, more understanding and, more importantly, a better relationship with my Father in Heaven.
I have learned with teaching primary that youth have quite a spirit with them. In our class, we have a few who thirst after that knowledge of the scriptures. And I realized that they have a glass and I have a glass. While going to church, reading the scriptures, prayer, these things help fill our spiritual glass.
Then, there are things that help drain your glass. Worldly things, such as stress from work, bills, school. Or, in my case, family. After losing my cousin a month ago or so, my neice had her child, then was put into the hospital 2 days after and nearly died. This all helps drain that storage. And learn to "cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee" (Psalms 55:22).
I have learned that over time, my glass - perhaps due to age - is becoming quite large. And the same things are not filling it. I constantly thirst for more knowledge, more understanding and, more importantly, a better relationship with my Father in Heaven.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Natural Man
The world would have us believe that being natural is ok. C'mon, it is only natural to drink as teenagers. Everyone does it. Or, it is only natural that we have sex early. Or, my favorite, it is only natural for guys to masturbate. I read a statistic that over 80% of all young men between 14 and 18 masturbate. Everyone does it, so it is ok, right?
I hope we do fall into this practice, for we should know that "the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolish unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned" (1 Cor 2:14).
Just because the world does not look down upon adultery, fornication, lewdness, or masturbation, does not mean we should. The world would have us believe that it is natural for a man to have his mistress, or to look at pornography. It is all in the world and only natural for a young man to look. I cannot recall how many times I have heard this. How "it is only natural to..."
In my earlier post, I talked about how no sin is little in the eye's of the Lord. Christ's blood was spilt for it was only natural that he bleed for us. "For the natural man is an enemy to God" (Mosiah 3:19). To be natural, to be an adulturer, to masturbate, to have relations with someone else before the bonds of matrimony, is to be an enemy of God.
We know God will not war with us, He will not come with swords and shields to kill, but it is sin in his eye. We must "yeild to the enticings of the Holy Spirit and putteth off the natural man... becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, (and) willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him" (Mosiah 3:19).
It is only natural to sin, but we must become above this temptation of being natural. With the strength that the Lord provides, it is possible.
I hope we do fall into this practice, for we should know that "the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolish unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned" (1 Cor 2:14).
Just because the world does not look down upon adultery, fornication, lewdness, or masturbation, does not mean we should. The world would have us believe that it is natural for a man to have his mistress, or to look at pornography. It is all in the world and only natural for a young man to look. I cannot recall how many times I have heard this. How "it is only natural to..."
In my earlier post, I talked about how no sin is little in the eye's of the Lord. Christ's blood was spilt for it was only natural that he bleed for us. "For the natural man is an enemy to God" (Mosiah 3:19). To be natural, to be an adulturer, to masturbate, to have relations with someone else before the bonds of matrimony, is to be an enemy of God.
We know God will not war with us, He will not come with swords and shields to kill, but it is sin in his eye. We must "yeild to the enticings of the Holy Spirit and putteth off the natural man... becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, (and) willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him" (Mosiah 3:19).
It is only natural to sin, but we must become above this temptation of being natural. With the strength that the Lord provides, it is possible.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Living Waters
I want to share a simple thought about the waters of life. I had a cousin who recently passed due to cancer. She had been fighting it for several years (3-4 that I am aware of, possibly more). She was a strong woman, always giving of herself. She came up to visit us, driving herself and 4 children, for some 12-13 hours non-stop to spend the 4th of July with us. I am grateful that she made this sacrifice so that I may know her children. And I am grateful I was able to say my goodbyes to her last month.
This story came to mind as I thought about Roxie. How she raised her children to be strong. How she provided that everlasting water that when you drink, you no longer thirst (John 4:14). I slightly disagree, however I think the meaning and my disagreement are the same. It is perceived that the water will well up inside you, granting a flow ever and ever. But what I think it means is that by partaking of the gospel, you will want more and more. So, in essence, we take the living water and then want more and more.
In my studies, it has just recently started that I have sought more and more. I suppose even in life, I am questing to learn evermore. Years ago, I thought I knew the gospel. I had an understanding of what was going on. I had a testimony. However, it ended there. I had the living water, but I did not thirst for more. Now, I am finding that everyday, I thirst for more. Does this mean the scriptures are wrong?
No, I do not think so. I think that to well up the living water, we need more and more gospel studying, more prayer, a stronger testimony. The living water will give us the desire to know more. To journey for a stronger testimony. To bring the gospel to others.
Perhaps it is age that has brought about this thirst of mine. As I yearn to learn more about the gospel, I also thirst for more knowledge in the world.
I brought this subject up, hoping to pass this knowledge and living water thirst off to my cousins, neices, nephews, and other readers. If there is a topic you want to hear about, let me know. I am going to try to post shorter thoughts as I know some of my ramblings tend to be quite long.
This story came to mind as I thought about Roxie. How she raised her children to be strong. How she provided that everlasting water that when you drink, you no longer thirst (John 4:14). I slightly disagree, however I think the meaning and my disagreement are the same. It is perceived that the water will well up inside you, granting a flow ever and ever. But what I think it means is that by partaking of the gospel, you will want more and more. So, in essence, we take the living water and then want more and more.
In my studies, it has just recently started that I have sought more and more. I suppose even in life, I am questing to learn evermore. Years ago, I thought I knew the gospel. I had an understanding of what was going on. I had a testimony. However, it ended there. I had the living water, but I did not thirst for more. Now, I am finding that everyday, I thirst for more. Does this mean the scriptures are wrong?
No, I do not think so. I think that to well up the living water, we need more and more gospel studying, more prayer, a stronger testimony. The living water will give us the desire to know more. To journey for a stronger testimony. To bring the gospel to others.
Perhaps it is age that has brought about this thirst of mine. As I yearn to learn more about the gospel, I also thirst for more knowledge in the world.
I brought this subject up, hoping to pass this knowledge and living water thirst off to my cousins, neices, nephews, and other readers. If there is a topic you want to hear about, let me know. I am going to try to post shorter thoughts as I know some of my ramblings tend to be quite long.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Gethsemane
"For the Lord cannot look upon sin without the least degree of allowance" (D&C 1:31).
Harsh words and even a more harsh meaning. It clearly states that God cannot tolerate sin or sinfulness in any degree. God cannot wink at it, ignore it, or turn and look the other way. The Lord will not sweep it under a rug or say "It is just a little sin. It will be alright." God's standard, the Celestial standard, is abolute and allows no exceptions. There is no wiggle room.
Changing topics slightly, I want to look at "blind justice" - you know, the image of the lady, blindfolded, holding the scales. She represents justice and mercy. The blindfold is to signify that it does not matter who the person is on trial - everyone, celebrity or commoner, prince and pauper, is given the same justice. In a sense, the scales also represent pros and cons, or goods and bads, to imitate mercy.
If the Lord functioned this way, would he simply weigh us against our wooden blocks of sin and whichever came out better, he would judge us? "You have done 4 good things, but only sinned twice, so go on into heaven." No, the Lord has to be absolute or cease to exist.
Humanity looks on the outward countenance. We see people dressed and make our initial expressions about them. The Lord looks upon the heart (ref 1 Sam 16:7). We cannot judge men as the Lord judges for we all sin and are imperfect. "And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thine brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?" (Matt 7:3).
Because of the Lord's perfection, he cannot tolerate any sin. This is why we need a savior. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
Since the beginning, God has held true of this. Adam and Eve were told not to take of the fruit of that tree. When the Lord asked them of it, they confessed and were yet kicked, exiled, from the Garden of Eden for their sins. No sin is small in the eyes of the Lord.
Now, for the good news for anyone who has ever sinned, in any degree. The word atonement literally means to make at one. Atonement has Greek roots and is translated as to reconcile. Take two things that have become separated, estranged, or incompatible - much like a perfect God and an imperfect me and you - and bring them back together, thus making the two objects at one again (ref Isaiah 1:18).
No matter what we have done, no matter how vile it may be, through the Lord we may overcome it. I enjoyed Stephen E. Robinson's Believing Christ. He wrote "It does not matter what you did. Whatever it was, no matter how horrible or vile, it is not the issue. The issue here is that whatever your sin was or is, I can erase it. I can clean you up and make you innocent, pure, and worthy, and I can do it today; I can do it now!"
Many people, even those in the church believe in Christ, but do not believe in his words. Christ says we can be made pure, but many people still have the midset of "No, you cannot. The gospel only works for other people; It will not work for me."
I beg to differ as Christ tells us "draw near to me and I will draw near unto you" (D&C 88:63). It can be done. I beg that you do not have the attitude of the world. Through the Lord, we can be clean. The Atonement's greatest accomplishment is that it works for everyone. Not only does it work for me, it works for the person who does better than I and to those who do worse than I. We have to take the first step.
"We believe that through the atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel" (3rd Article of Faith). It does not say only a select few, it says everyone.
So, what does this all mean? Well, we know that we want exaltation. We also know that to get there, we have to be pure, clean and having no sin. But we are sinners. How can we still achieve this ending we all want?
Many people mistake the lifehood of the Savior. They know that this man named Christ came to this world and did miracles. Then, he died upon that cross. However, that was not the atonement. This greatest work that Christ did was not at the cross. It was not at the last supper. It was not in his holding cell or at a temple. Yet, it was in a quiet garden named Gethsemane.
In the garden, Christ bleed from every pore on his body. Imagine how painful that would be. It would have killed a lesser man. Only Christ could accomplish this because of his uniqueness with his Father. I know that at least one of those drops were for me.
Christ was the only person who could have lived through that painful ordeal. He was the only one that could raise himself from the dead three days after dying on the cross. There is not another single person who could have done that for us.
Countless times in the scriptures, we hear "Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone that asketh, receiveth; and he that seeketh, findeth; and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened" (Matt 7:7-8).
I thought that I understoof the pain that Christ bore for us. I knew it was great. But it was only recently that it came to pass that I feel even closer. I know what Christ has done for us and I hope it does not go away in vain for us. How great will your joy be in that kingdom when you bring that "one soul unto me; How great shall your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!" (D&C 18:15). Let that one soul be your own soul. Then, gather the reast of the flock.
Harsh words and even a more harsh meaning. It clearly states that God cannot tolerate sin or sinfulness in any degree. God cannot wink at it, ignore it, or turn and look the other way. The Lord will not sweep it under a rug or say "It is just a little sin. It will be alright." God's standard, the Celestial standard, is abolute and allows no exceptions. There is no wiggle room.
Changing topics slightly, I want to look at "blind justice" - you know, the image of the lady, blindfolded, holding the scales. She represents justice and mercy. The blindfold is to signify that it does not matter who the person is on trial - everyone, celebrity or commoner, prince and pauper, is given the same justice. In a sense, the scales also represent pros and cons, or goods and bads, to imitate mercy.
If the Lord functioned this way, would he simply weigh us against our wooden blocks of sin and whichever came out better, he would judge us? "You have done 4 good things, but only sinned twice, so go on into heaven." No, the Lord has to be absolute or cease to exist.
Humanity looks on the outward countenance. We see people dressed and make our initial expressions about them. The Lord looks upon the heart (ref 1 Sam 16:7). We cannot judge men as the Lord judges for we all sin and are imperfect. "And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thine brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?" (Matt 7:3).
Because of the Lord's perfection, he cannot tolerate any sin. This is why we need a savior. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
Since the beginning, God has held true of this. Adam and Eve were told not to take of the fruit of that tree. When the Lord asked them of it, they confessed and were yet kicked, exiled, from the Garden of Eden for their sins. No sin is small in the eyes of the Lord.
Now, for the good news for anyone who has ever sinned, in any degree. The word atonement literally means to make at one. Atonement has Greek roots and is translated as to reconcile. Take two things that have become separated, estranged, or incompatible - much like a perfect God and an imperfect me and you - and bring them back together, thus making the two objects at one again (ref Isaiah 1:18).
No matter what we have done, no matter how vile it may be, through the Lord we may overcome it. I enjoyed Stephen E. Robinson's Believing Christ. He wrote "It does not matter what you did. Whatever it was, no matter how horrible or vile, it is not the issue. The issue here is that whatever your sin was or is, I can erase it. I can clean you up and make you innocent, pure, and worthy, and I can do it today; I can do it now!"
Many people, even those in the church believe in Christ, but do not believe in his words. Christ says we can be made pure, but many people still have the midset of "No, you cannot. The gospel only works for other people; It will not work for me."
I beg to differ as Christ tells us "draw near to me and I will draw near unto you" (D&C 88:63). It can be done. I beg that you do not have the attitude of the world. Through the Lord, we can be clean. The Atonement's greatest accomplishment is that it works for everyone. Not only does it work for me, it works for the person who does better than I and to those who do worse than I. We have to take the first step.
"We believe that through the atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel" (3rd Article of Faith). It does not say only a select few, it says everyone.
So, what does this all mean? Well, we know that we want exaltation. We also know that to get there, we have to be pure, clean and having no sin. But we are sinners. How can we still achieve this ending we all want?
Many people mistake the lifehood of the Savior. They know that this man named Christ came to this world and did miracles. Then, he died upon that cross. However, that was not the atonement. This greatest work that Christ did was not at the cross. It was not at the last supper. It was not in his holding cell or at a temple. Yet, it was in a quiet garden named Gethsemane.
In the garden, Christ bleed from every pore on his body. Imagine how painful that would be. It would have killed a lesser man. Only Christ could accomplish this because of his uniqueness with his Father. I know that at least one of those drops were for me.
Christ was the only person who could have lived through that painful ordeal. He was the only one that could raise himself from the dead three days after dying on the cross. There is not another single person who could have done that for us.
Countless times in the scriptures, we hear "Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone that asketh, receiveth; and he that seeketh, findeth; and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened" (Matt 7:7-8).
I thought that I understoof the pain that Christ bore for us. I knew it was great. But it was only recently that it came to pass that I feel even closer. I know what Christ has done for us and I hope it does not go away in vain for us. How great will your joy be in that kingdom when you bring that "one soul unto me; How great shall your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!" (D&C 18:15). Let that one soul be your own soul. Then, gather the reast of the flock.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Missionary work
I was thinking quite a bit about missionary work lately. Not sure why, but just sharing the gospel with people. And it donned on me: When you sign up to do missionary work, you sacrifice something.
Neil L. Anderson said "Missionary service requires a sacrifice. There will always be something you leave behind when you respond to the prophet's call to serve."
Even if not formally called, everyone can be a missionary. Everyone can plant those small seeds of faith that blossom over years, maybe even decades. Those sacrifices may not be as high as when you serve in your younger years (sacrificing 2 years, sporting opportunities, your boyfriend/girlfriend), but there is something you give up (time, hobbies).
And I realized: Home teaching is just like missionary work. I mean, you go into a neighbor's house to share a spiritual thought and to make sure they are doing ok. You may not be converting non-members like missionaries do, but the work is just as important to the members.
I believe the biggest sacrifice, at least in my experience, is my time. Giving of my money is easy. Giving of my precious time is difficult. I remember when it was so easy.
I am not here to preach upon a rameumptom to preach anything, it was a thought I had about home teaching and missionary work. Both are equally important and I know I could personally strive to do better in both departments.
Neil L. Anderson said "Missionary service requires a sacrifice. There will always be something you leave behind when you respond to the prophet's call to serve."
Even if not formally called, everyone can be a missionary. Everyone can plant those small seeds of faith that blossom over years, maybe even decades. Those sacrifices may not be as high as when you serve in your younger years (sacrificing 2 years, sporting opportunities, your boyfriend/girlfriend), but there is something you give up (time, hobbies).
And I realized: Home teaching is just like missionary work. I mean, you go into a neighbor's house to share a spiritual thought and to make sure they are doing ok. You may not be converting non-members like missionaries do, but the work is just as important to the members.
I believe the biggest sacrifice, at least in my experience, is my time. Giving of my money is easy. Giving of my precious time is difficult. I remember when it was so easy.
I am not here to preach upon a rameumptom to preach anything, it was a thought I had about home teaching and missionary work. Both are equally important and I know I could personally strive to do better in both departments.
Monday, June 27, 2011
The story of Everyman
Good afternoon! I was a day latter on my blog than I had anticipated. This is a story I used and I think the name will make sense.
This is the story of Everyman. But, for simple reasons, I will call this man Arthur Dent. Arthur is so preoccupied by the trivialities of life that when the end comes, he is caught completely unaware. The plans of his home destruction have been available for a year and the plans for the destruction of Earth for centuries.
Fortunately, Arthur saves the man who can save him: Ford Prefect. Ford is an alien, who came to earth to conduct research for an article for the “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.”
Yes, this is a fictional story. But, let us examine it for a second. Arthur is much like us: you, me, your neighbors. We are all aware of our impeding doom, our mortal death. This is much like Arthur who should have known his house was going to be destroyed. But, being caught up everyday, has had no time to do anything about it. Church will be there next week, I can go then. But, to some, next week never comes. And when the crew comes, they will quietly lay in front of a bulldozer and argue the fact that they are not ready.
Some of us are like the people in the bar at the destruction of earth: we just quietly put a paper bag over our heads, lay down, and hope for the best.
In our lives, we can relate the destruction of Arthur’s house to our mortal life: it will happen. Maybe not when we want it to, but it will and we are aware it will end. Hopefully, we can avoid earth’s destruction - the spiritual death.
Ford saves Arthur’s life, hitchhiking across a Vogon’s ship and they have an adventure together. Ford is much like the Savior: follow him and avoid the spiritual death. Arthur took a leap of faith with Ford, much like what we must do with Christ. He is there and he will help. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Matt 7:7).
This story also teaches us that not all evil is like the big, scary Vogons. Some of the adversaries greatest tricks is to slowly get us to let go of that rod, that straight and narrow path. It is not always something huge, but, much like our seeds of faith, they, too, are slowly growing and sprouting.
Our guide is not one of hitchhiking or the galaxy, but of life. Our scriptures, our prophets, our teachers are our guides. All things holy from God. At the end of the movie, Arthur is given a choice: return to a new, manufactured earth, representing his prior life, or continue on the “Heart of Gold,” the spaceship, and continue his journey. Also, across the back of the Hitchhiker’s Guide, in bright yellow are the words “Don’t Panic!”
This is the story of Everyman. But, for simple reasons, I will call this man Arthur Dent. Arthur is so preoccupied by the trivialities of life that when the end comes, he is caught completely unaware. The plans of his home destruction have been available for a year and the plans for the destruction of Earth for centuries.
Fortunately, Arthur saves the man who can save him: Ford Prefect. Ford is an alien, who came to earth to conduct research for an article for the “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.”
Yes, this is a fictional story. But, let us examine it for a second. Arthur is much like us: you, me, your neighbors. We are all aware of our impeding doom, our mortal death. This is much like Arthur who should have known his house was going to be destroyed. But, being caught up everyday, has had no time to do anything about it. Church will be there next week, I can go then. But, to some, next week never comes. And when the crew comes, they will quietly lay in front of a bulldozer and argue the fact that they are not ready.
Some of us are like the people in the bar at the destruction of earth: we just quietly put a paper bag over our heads, lay down, and hope for the best.
In our lives, we can relate the destruction of Arthur’s house to our mortal life: it will happen. Maybe not when we want it to, but it will and we are aware it will end. Hopefully, we can avoid earth’s destruction - the spiritual death.
Ford saves Arthur’s life, hitchhiking across a Vogon’s ship and they have an adventure together. Ford is much like the Savior: follow him and avoid the spiritual death. Arthur took a leap of faith with Ford, much like what we must do with Christ. He is there and he will help. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Matt 7:7).
This story also teaches us that not all evil is like the big, scary Vogons. Some of the adversaries greatest tricks is to slowly get us to let go of that rod, that straight and narrow path. It is not always something huge, but, much like our seeds of faith, they, too, are slowly growing and sprouting.
Our guide is not one of hitchhiking or the galaxy, but of life. Our scriptures, our prophets, our teachers are our guides. All things holy from God. At the end of the movie, Arthur is given a choice: return to a new, manufactured earth, representing his prior life, or continue on the “Heart of Gold,” the spaceship, and continue his journey. Also, across the back of the Hitchhiker’s Guide, in bright yellow are the words “Don’t Panic!”
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Behold the Man
So, our Stake President has challenged us to read the New Testament this year. Something I have not done since high school. I have always found the New Testament to be somewhat slow and not as exciting, I accepted the challenge.
Several months ago, when Laura and I got married, moved into our new house, we were asked to give talks. As it turned out, I had a talk about fatherhood and being a good husband. I cannot say that I am the best example, for I fall short of the man I want to become. I found my research easy and found many great examples of fathers and men throughout the scriptures.
I want to go through this talk again. It has been awhile and I was not able to recite all during my given time.
As Latter-day Saints use the words "saved" and "salvation," there are at least 6 different meanings. According to some of these, our salvation is assured - we are already saved. In others, salvation must be spoken of as a future event, or as a conditioned upon a future event. But in all of these meanings, or kinds of salvation, salvation is in and through Jesus Christ.
To summarize those 6 meanings spoken of:
1. We are saved from the permanent effects of death because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, all mankind will be resurrected.
2. We are saved from sin through Christ's Atonement and by following the gospel plan. Repentance is an important part of being saved from the consequences of our sins.
3. We are saved when we are 'born again.' This happens when we enter into a covenant relationship with Christ by accepting baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and taking Christ's name upon us. We must also faithfully keep and renew that covenant relationship.
4. We are saved from the darkness of ignorance as we leanr about the gospel plan. The gospel of Jesus Christ brings light into our lives.
5. We are saved from the second death, which is final spiritual death, becuase of Christ's Atonement. Everyone, except for those few who become sons of perdition, will enter in a kingdom of glory.
6. Our hope is that we will be finally saved in the celestial kingdom. In addition to the other requirements, this salvation, or exaltation, also requires that we make sacred covenants in God's temples and remain faithful to them.
"And now behold, I ask of you, my brethren of the church, have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye received his image in your countenances? Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?"
"I say unto you, can you imagine to yourselves that ye hear the voice of the Lord, saying unto you, in that day: Come unto me ye blessed, for behold, your works have been the works of righteousness upon the face of the earth?" (Alma 5: 14, 11).
Our actions take form into our countenance. Everyone, even non-members, can be shown through their works.
Bishop Richard Edgley once received a letter from a family friend who needed help. This letter was the ultimate plea for assitance. After struggling to raise her children as a single mother, this lady remarried. Her non-member husband was a rough outdoorsman, who attempted to express his manhood through drinking, foul language, tough talk, and questionable behavior. Her concern was that her husband's example was teaching her son that these indeed were the traits of manhood.
Satan is the great deceiver. His religion, his philosophy, and his work is based on lies and deception. His objective is to thwart the work of the Lord by misleading us and eventually making us "miserable like unto himself" (2 Nephi 2:27). He would have us believe that he is the man and that his ways bring us to manhood.
By contrast, Jesus voluntarily submitted himself to the will of the Father. As a result, He was betrayed, accused, beaten, and judged. His sacrifice was not mandatory. It was borne out of courage, duty, and love and it led Him to the bitter cup that caused Him to bleed from every pore. After Pilate had witnessed the enormous suffering and humiliation of Jesus and even argued for His release, he finally succumbed to the demand of the Jews. As he turned Him over for crucifixion, he did so with the simple, but defining words "Behold the man!" (John 19:5).
Yes, Jesus is the man. He possesses all characteristics of the true, ideal man. His ways, not Satan's way, lead to manhood. Anyone who believes otherwise is already tangling himself up in the everlasting chains of Satan's deception (2 Nephi 28:19).
Every young man must choose between good and evil and between the ways of God and the ways of Satan. When a young man begins to smoke to prove he is a man, whose man is he becoming? When a young man begins to drink, taking drugs, participate in immorality, is boisterous or unruly, whose man is he becoming? It has been said that many a boy begins smoking as a teenager to prove he is a man, and he tries to quit at age 30 for the same reason. There is no manhood in succumbing to Satan. There is no manhood in being defeated by his principles.
Real courage includes standing against the evil one, even when we stand alone, often feeling the disdain and the ridicule of others. This is courage. This is strength. This is manhood, and it will be tough.
Bishop Edgley goes on with his talk, telling od a young man he had to help. The man wanted to serve a mission, but because of his past, he had to go through and repent of his sins. The bishop doubted that someone could prepare himself to worthily serve a mission with a past like the boys. During the interview, he simply asked "Why am I visiting with you tonight?" The boy laid out his past. After reviewing and confessing his transgrssion, he began talking about his atonement and the years of painful repentance that brought him to that day.
The boy expressed gratitude that the Atonement was sufficient to rescue a boy like him. The bishop allowed him to go on a mission under one circumstance: To be the best missionary in the entire church.
About 4 months later, Bishop Edgley ran into the man at a missionary devotional at the MTC. He could not remember the boy, but when the boy told him he was the best missionary in the MTC, a single tear drop silently trickled down his cheek. He thought "Here is a man. He met his Gethsemane. He paid the prainful price of repentance. He has humbled himself and submitted himself to the redemptive power of the Savior. He has met the challenges, he has measured up to true manhood."
I simply say: "Behold, the man!"
You can describe a man in inches, pounds, complexion, or physique. But you measure a man by character, compassion, integrity, tenderness, and principle. When Alma querried "Have ye received his image in your countenance", he was talking about the attributes of true manhood.
Every priesthood bearer should seek to be known simply as a man of God. As the song beckons "with no apparent beauty that man should him desire. He was the promised Savior, to purify with fire. The world depised his plainess but those who followed him found love and light and purity, a beauty from within. Have ye received his image in your countenance? Does the light of Christ shine in your eyes? Will he known you when he comes again because you will be like him? When he sees you will the father know his child?"
One day, will we know each other based solely on our countenance? Did we know each other as intelligences solely based on this? "Verily, thus saith the Lord: It shall come to pass that every soul who forsaketh his sins and cometh unto me, and calleth on my name, and obeyeth my voice, and keep my commandments, shall see my face and know that I am;" (D&C 93:1).
One day, I hope someone can approach me and say "You know Brother Toma, you look somehow different. You look as if Christ was here today."
Elder D. Todd Chrisofferson said: In large measure, true manhood is defined in our relationship to women. The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. By divine design, fathers are to preside over the families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the neccessities of life and protection for their families.
He goes on to talk about hos he visited members of the Church in many countries and despite differences in circumstances and cultures, he had been impressed with the faith and capacity of our women, including some of the very young. So many of them possess a remarkable faith and goodness. They know the scriptures. The are poised and confident. I ask myself "Do we have man to match these women? Are our young men developing into worthy companions that such women can look up to and respect?"
President Gordon B. Hinckley gave specific counsel to young men: "The girl you marry will take a terrible chance on you. You will largely determine the remainder of her life."
Paul wrote to Timothy "But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel" (1 Timothy 5:8).
Good men sometimes make mistakes. A man of integrity will honestly face and correct his mistakes and this is an example we can respect. Sometimes we fail. True manhood is not always measure by the fruits of one's labors, but by the labors themselves - by one's striving.
Though he will make some sacrifices and deny himself some pleasures in the course of honoring his commitments, the true man leads a rewarding life. He gives much through home teaching and other callings, but he receives much more and he lives conten in the approval of his Heavenly Father. The life of true manhood is the good life.
As the Conte of Monte Cristo said to young Albert: "Life is a storm, my young friend. You will bask in the sunlight one moment, be shattered on the rocks the next. What makes you a man is what you do when that storm comes. You must look into that storm and shout as you did in Rome. Do your worst, for I will do mine! Then the fates will know you as we know you: as Albert Mondago, the man!"
Are we standing up to the storms when they come? Are we building our foundations to combat against the storms? Are we raising our children to be as Albert, standing against temptation as Christ did? When we introduce them, shall we also say "Behold, the Man!"?
I like to think of myself as a gardener. By no means am I one. In fact, growing up, the greenest plants I was able to grow was mold. But in recent years, I have had the opportunity to tend a few gardens and learn some.
Gardening is not just planting seeds and watering them. There is work to be done, soil to fertilize, knowing the weather, how deep to plant each seed, how much water to give and even how to tell when the fruits or vegetables are ready. Also, some birds and bugs can interfere.
As our countenace grows and changes, so does our garden. We must daily weed out our gardens. Constant care should be given to ensure our garden's survival. Are we nurturing our seeds of faith, of charity, of love, or seeds of gospel study? Or are our weeds of doubt, frusteration, and anger growing over? You see, weeds will grow without nurture. They will steal our precious water of life our good seeds need.
Luckily, our garden has a gardener. Someone who has much more expertise than I. A savior to our garden, if you will. For those weeds who look to become too burdenful. Somedays, it may look like as if there is no end. That some of our plants like faith may nowhere be found. But if we ask our gardener, he will gladly clear our weeds. Maybe at the end of that day, as I lay covered in blood, sweat, tears and dirt may I resemble him even more. Maybe it will be shown dressed in white at the temple. Perhaps it may be the self realization as I look at myself in the mirror. Whenever or where it be, I still have faith that growing spiritually will allow me to be as Christ.
I am sorry for taking so long, but this is a dear topic to me. I appreciate you reading it.
Several months ago, when Laura and I got married, moved into our new house, we were asked to give talks. As it turned out, I had a talk about fatherhood and being a good husband. I cannot say that I am the best example, for I fall short of the man I want to become. I found my research easy and found many great examples of fathers and men throughout the scriptures.
I want to go through this talk again. It has been awhile and I was not able to recite all during my given time.
As Latter-day Saints use the words "saved" and "salvation," there are at least 6 different meanings. According to some of these, our salvation is assured - we are already saved. In others, salvation must be spoken of as a future event, or as a conditioned upon a future event. But in all of these meanings, or kinds of salvation, salvation is in and through Jesus Christ.
To summarize those 6 meanings spoken of:
1. We are saved from the permanent effects of death because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, all mankind will be resurrected.
2. We are saved from sin through Christ's Atonement and by following the gospel plan. Repentance is an important part of being saved from the consequences of our sins.
3. We are saved when we are 'born again.' This happens when we enter into a covenant relationship with Christ by accepting baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and taking Christ's name upon us. We must also faithfully keep and renew that covenant relationship.
4. We are saved from the darkness of ignorance as we leanr about the gospel plan. The gospel of Jesus Christ brings light into our lives.
5. We are saved from the second death, which is final spiritual death, becuase of Christ's Atonement. Everyone, except for those few who become sons of perdition, will enter in a kingdom of glory.
6. Our hope is that we will be finally saved in the celestial kingdom. In addition to the other requirements, this salvation, or exaltation, also requires that we make sacred covenants in God's temples and remain faithful to them.
"And now behold, I ask of you, my brethren of the church, have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye received his image in your countenances? Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?"
"I say unto you, can you imagine to yourselves that ye hear the voice of the Lord, saying unto you, in that day: Come unto me ye blessed, for behold, your works have been the works of righteousness upon the face of the earth?" (Alma 5: 14, 11).
Our actions take form into our countenance. Everyone, even non-members, can be shown through their works.
Bishop Richard Edgley once received a letter from a family friend who needed help. This letter was the ultimate plea for assitance. After struggling to raise her children as a single mother, this lady remarried. Her non-member husband was a rough outdoorsman, who attempted to express his manhood through drinking, foul language, tough talk, and questionable behavior. Her concern was that her husband's example was teaching her son that these indeed were the traits of manhood.
Satan is the great deceiver. His religion, his philosophy, and his work is based on lies and deception. His objective is to thwart the work of the Lord by misleading us and eventually making us "miserable like unto himself" (2 Nephi 2:27). He would have us believe that he is the man and that his ways bring us to manhood.
By contrast, Jesus voluntarily submitted himself to the will of the Father. As a result, He was betrayed, accused, beaten, and judged. His sacrifice was not mandatory. It was borne out of courage, duty, and love and it led Him to the bitter cup that caused Him to bleed from every pore. After Pilate had witnessed the enormous suffering and humiliation of Jesus and even argued for His release, he finally succumbed to the demand of the Jews. As he turned Him over for crucifixion, he did so with the simple, but defining words "Behold the man!" (John 19:5).
Yes, Jesus is the man. He possesses all characteristics of the true, ideal man. His ways, not Satan's way, lead to manhood. Anyone who believes otherwise is already tangling himself up in the everlasting chains of Satan's deception (2 Nephi 28:19).
Every young man must choose between good and evil and between the ways of God and the ways of Satan. When a young man begins to smoke to prove he is a man, whose man is he becoming? When a young man begins to drink, taking drugs, participate in immorality, is boisterous or unruly, whose man is he becoming? It has been said that many a boy begins smoking as a teenager to prove he is a man, and he tries to quit at age 30 for the same reason. There is no manhood in succumbing to Satan. There is no manhood in being defeated by his principles.
Real courage includes standing against the evil one, even when we stand alone, often feeling the disdain and the ridicule of others. This is courage. This is strength. This is manhood, and it will be tough.
Bishop Edgley goes on with his talk, telling od a young man he had to help. The man wanted to serve a mission, but because of his past, he had to go through and repent of his sins. The bishop doubted that someone could prepare himself to worthily serve a mission with a past like the boys. During the interview, he simply asked "Why am I visiting with you tonight?" The boy laid out his past. After reviewing and confessing his transgrssion, he began talking about his atonement and the years of painful repentance that brought him to that day.
The boy expressed gratitude that the Atonement was sufficient to rescue a boy like him. The bishop allowed him to go on a mission under one circumstance: To be the best missionary in the entire church.
About 4 months later, Bishop Edgley ran into the man at a missionary devotional at the MTC. He could not remember the boy, but when the boy told him he was the best missionary in the MTC, a single tear drop silently trickled down his cheek. He thought "Here is a man. He met his Gethsemane. He paid the prainful price of repentance. He has humbled himself and submitted himself to the redemptive power of the Savior. He has met the challenges, he has measured up to true manhood."
I simply say: "Behold, the man!"
You can describe a man in inches, pounds, complexion, or physique. But you measure a man by character, compassion, integrity, tenderness, and principle. When Alma querried "Have ye received his image in your countenance", he was talking about the attributes of true manhood.
Every priesthood bearer should seek to be known simply as a man of God. As the song beckons "with no apparent beauty that man should him desire. He was the promised Savior, to purify with fire. The world depised his plainess but those who followed him found love and light and purity, a beauty from within. Have ye received his image in your countenance? Does the light of Christ shine in your eyes? Will he known you when he comes again because you will be like him? When he sees you will the father know his child?"
One day, will we know each other based solely on our countenance? Did we know each other as intelligences solely based on this? "Verily, thus saith the Lord: It shall come to pass that every soul who forsaketh his sins and cometh unto me, and calleth on my name, and obeyeth my voice, and keep my commandments, shall see my face and know that I am;" (D&C 93:1).
One day, I hope someone can approach me and say "You know Brother Toma, you look somehow different. You look as if Christ was here today."
Elder D. Todd Chrisofferson said: In large measure, true manhood is defined in our relationship to women. The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. By divine design, fathers are to preside over the families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the neccessities of life and protection for their families.
He goes on to talk about hos he visited members of the Church in many countries and despite differences in circumstances and cultures, he had been impressed with the faith and capacity of our women, including some of the very young. So many of them possess a remarkable faith and goodness. They know the scriptures. The are poised and confident. I ask myself "Do we have man to match these women? Are our young men developing into worthy companions that such women can look up to and respect?"
President Gordon B. Hinckley gave specific counsel to young men: "The girl you marry will take a terrible chance on you. You will largely determine the remainder of her life."
Paul wrote to Timothy "But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel" (1 Timothy 5:8).
Good men sometimes make mistakes. A man of integrity will honestly face and correct his mistakes and this is an example we can respect. Sometimes we fail. True manhood is not always measure by the fruits of one's labors, but by the labors themselves - by one's striving.
Though he will make some sacrifices and deny himself some pleasures in the course of honoring his commitments, the true man leads a rewarding life. He gives much through home teaching and other callings, but he receives much more and he lives conten in the approval of his Heavenly Father. The life of true manhood is the good life.
As the Conte of Monte Cristo said to young Albert: "Life is a storm, my young friend. You will bask in the sunlight one moment, be shattered on the rocks the next. What makes you a man is what you do when that storm comes. You must look into that storm and shout as you did in Rome. Do your worst, for I will do mine! Then the fates will know you as we know you: as Albert Mondago, the man!"
Are we standing up to the storms when they come? Are we building our foundations to combat against the storms? Are we raising our children to be as Albert, standing against temptation as Christ did? When we introduce them, shall we also say "Behold, the Man!"?
I like to think of myself as a gardener. By no means am I one. In fact, growing up, the greenest plants I was able to grow was mold. But in recent years, I have had the opportunity to tend a few gardens and learn some.
Gardening is not just planting seeds and watering them. There is work to be done, soil to fertilize, knowing the weather, how deep to plant each seed, how much water to give and even how to tell when the fruits or vegetables are ready. Also, some birds and bugs can interfere.
As our countenace grows and changes, so does our garden. We must daily weed out our gardens. Constant care should be given to ensure our garden's survival. Are we nurturing our seeds of faith, of charity, of love, or seeds of gospel study? Or are our weeds of doubt, frusteration, and anger growing over? You see, weeds will grow without nurture. They will steal our precious water of life our good seeds need.
Luckily, our garden has a gardener. Someone who has much more expertise than I. A savior to our garden, if you will. For those weeds who look to become too burdenful. Somedays, it may look like as if there is no end. That some of our plants like faith may nowhere be found. But if we ask our gardener, he will gladly clear our weeds. Maybe at the end of that day, as I lay covered in blood, sweat, tears and dirt may I resemble him even more. Maybe it will be shown dressed in white at the temple. Perhaps it may be the self realization as I look at myself in the mirror. Whenever or where it be, I still have faith that growing spiritually will allow me to be as Christ.
I am sorry for taking so long, but this is a dear topic to me. I appreciate you reading it.
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