I had to pull together a last-minute FHE lesson after dinner last night. I usually will find a Friend article, in these situations, and read the article and discuss it. So as I was flipping through the Friend, I found a nice short article on prayer. It was about a couple of kids who used prayer in their lives. The article also had some activities that you could do to help re-inforce the message. One of these had an activity to find examples of prayer in the scriptures, but a better idea came to me and it turned out really well.
I asked my son to get the "blue box" of Church pictures. I put the box in the middle of the floor. Then, before I read the article, I told the kids that I was going to start a sentence and I wanted them to finish it. I started the sentence, "Prayer is ..." They each came up with their ideas ... beautiful, reverent, talking to God, quiet. Then I read the article. We talked about it a bit and then each of them wanted to share their own experiences with personal prayer and so we all listend to their personal experiences.
Then we all sat on the floor around the "blue box." I split the pictures up between everyone in the family. I then asked them to put the pictures that dealt with prayer in one pile and then put all the other pictures in another pile. Then I took all their non-prayer pictures and put them back in the box. Then I showed them how many scripture story pictures were about prayer. I quickly went through each one; briefly recounting the story or having one of the kids recount the story. Then I asked them, "was their prayer answered?" Of course they were! And just seeing all the stories in the scriptures and talking about how those prayers were answered not only helped the kids, but it really strengthened my faith too.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Israel Surrounded
This article, by Victor Davis Hanson, really raised my eyebrows ... especially the last paragraph.
So brace yourself. The next war against Israel is no longer a matter of if — only when. And it will be far more deadly than any we’ve witnessed in quite some time.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Recap of April 2011 Conference
President Monson - opening remarks
pay your tithes and offerings and be generous with them. contribute to other funds of the church. consider making a donation to the general missionary fund of the church.
Elder Perry - The Sabbath and the Sacrament
commit to study and treasure the new testament.
go to the house of prayer (sacrament meeting & church meetings).
avoid worldly distractions, business and recreational activities on sunday.
confess & forsake our errors to heavenly father.
dress appropriately on the sabbath.
teach our children to love the sabbath by going to church
Elder Cook - LDS Women Are Incredible!
wives are equal to their husbands. marriage requires full partnership - husbands and wives work side by side. to meet the needs of the family.
President Eyring - Opportunities to Do Good
consecrate your time, means and yourself to serve others.
keep your covenants by acting on feelings of sympathy.
provide for youself, your family and then reach out to help others.
spend less than you earn; with the surplus, give to others.
draw your family into the work of helping others; so they can learn from your example.
seek out the poor - it is a commandment.
prepare yourself. be pureified, strengthened; serve god and others
President Packer - Guided by the Holy Spirit
refer to members of the church properly i.e. latter-day saints
be responsible, caring, devoted to your wife and children and revere womanhood. nurture spiritual growth in your children.
love one another and frankly forgive offenses.
leave it alone ... forgive, forget and leave it alone.
mourn with those that mourn, comfort those that need it, be a witness of god always.
do a lot of forgiving and a little repenting.
Elder Nelson - Face the Future with Faith
combat fear by strengthening your faith.
strengthen the faith of your children.
focus your faith on heavenly father and jesus christ. teach children they are a child of god. teach faith in the plan of salvation; that this life is a probation - a trial - a test.
keep all of god's commandments.
faith and obedience will provide physical and spiritual protection.
faith is fortified through heartfelt prayer - intense & impassioned prayers.
enduring commitment to being a full tithe-payer is essential.
why do we need faith? because difficult days are ahead.
the saints will suffer persecution - how you react to that persecution will either crush you or motivate you.
the future is as bright as your faith.
Elder Oaks - Desire
search your heart to determine what you really desire; determine how you rank your most important desires.
you develop desire when you have a vision of what you can become. when you have that vision, your power to act increases enormously.
desires must be heartfelt - unwavering - permanent.
deliberately decide to lose wrong desires.
insist over and over again what you desire to become and you will become it.
work for the qualities required to become an eternal being.
do all that you can do to preserve your temple marriage.
Elder Ballard - Finding Joy through Loving Service
strive to keep your life simple and unencumbered by extraneous influences; focus on those things that matter most.
love god & christ with all your heart and share that love through acts of kindness.
when charity envelops us, our motivation and heartfelt desires are like christ's.
let the golden rule govern your home. speak words of support and encouragement; be sensitive to other's needs.
rescue.
kindness is the essence of greatness.
discern needs and then respond to those needs.
be sensitive to the promptings of the holy ghost.
help with mundane tasks.
unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives.
desire the gift of charity.
Elder Anderson - Preparing the World for the Second Coming
sidney going (rugby star athlete) said, "the blessing of bringing others into the gospel far outweighs anything you will ever sacrifice.
thousands have not asked "what will i get from my mission" rather they've asked "what can i give?"
prepare for service as a missionary - keep clean, pure and worthy to represent the lord.
President Uchtdorf - Your Potential, Your Privilege
partake of the abundant feast of spiritual opportunities and universal blessings the priesthood provides.
when impressed upon by the spirit, do it now.
read the scriptures - listen to the prophets with all your heart and mind.
don't let a day go by without doing something to act on the promptings of the holy ghost.
commit to reading the scriptures and handbooks with more purpose and focus.
read d&c 84, 107, 121
study the purpose, potential and practical use of the priesthood.
become experts in the doctrines of the gospel - especially the doctrine of the priesthood.
seek personal revelation.
plead with the lord to provide us with a spark of faith that will enable us to receive revelation.
experience the bliss of daily, practical priesthood service.
never become hardened at the wonder and awe of what the lord has entrusted to us.
President Eyring - Learning in the Priesthood
learn your duties in the priesthood and grow in the power to perform them.
love each other and don't find fault with each other.
be a peacemaker - someone who helps people find common ground when others see differences.
with enough desire to be a peacemake and to have charity, unity is possible; but it takes patience and humilty.
labor for the salvation of men.
"in the priesthood we share the sacred duty to labor for the souls of men. we must do more than learn that this is our duty. it must go down into our hearts so deeply that neither the many demans on our efforts in the bloom of life nor the trials that come with age can turn us from that purpose."
be determined to do something that matters.
President Monson - Priesthood Power
"the moral compass of the masses has gradually shifted to an 'almost anything goes' position."
do not subject yourself to the innuendo and outright filth from today's media (tv, movies)
stay completely away from pornography. avoid alcohol & tabacco, drugs and addictions.
read the book of mormon.
keep your testimony alive through obedience and regular prayer and scripture study and chuch attendance.
cease any unrighteousness.
reject false concepts and teachings; and remain true to god's commandments.
get married.
in most cases, divorce does not have to be the outcome.
choose your love; love your choice.
be the right person in your marriage. do your part.
be committed to your wife.
President Uchtdorf - Waiting on the Road to Damascus
look back on your life experiences and see that the savior has been with you.
move forward with faith and do not wait too long.
turn down the volume control on the worldly noise in your life.
learn to hearken to the promptings of the holy ghost and then be eager to heed them.
rely on and respond to the promptings of the holy ghost.
study it out in your mind, pray for guidance.
often the answer does not come on our knees, but on our feet while we are serving the lord and those around us.
open your mouth at all times.
"preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words."
Elder Bednar - The Spirit of Revelation
the spirit of revelation typically functions as thoughts and feelings that come into our minds and hearts from the holy ghost.
consider seriously and ponder prayfully how we can reject the devil's enticements
revelation comes in small increments according to our desire for it, our worthiness and preparation.
appreciate and don't overlook the customary pattern by which the holy ghost accomplishes his work.
keep pressing forward obediently.
trust in god - pray to him.
President Monson - The Holy Temple - a Beacon to the World
temples are filled with faith and fasting; built by trials and testimonies; sanctified by sacrifice and service.
set aside time in your busy life to visit the temple regularly.
there is no more important goal for you than to be worthy to go to the temple.
secure a temple recommend and regard it as a precious possession.
always have the temple in your sights.
indoctrinate your children to love the temple.
Elder Scott - The Eternal Blessing of Marriage
don't waste your time on idle pursuits if you are a young man and are not married.
be faithful to your wife - mentally, physically.
support your wife and children.
lead in scripture study, family prayer, fhe.
tell your wife, often, that you love her, hug her, express gratitude, don't hold back heart-felt expressions of love.
give, share, don't think of yourself first.
get married early in life so as to avoid developing inappropriate character traits that are hard to change.
Elder Christofferson - As Many as I Love, I Rebuke and Chasten
"the god portrayed in both the hebrew and christian scriptures asks, not just for commitment, but for our very lifes. the god of the bible traffics in life and death, not niceness, and calls for sacrificial love, not benign whatever-ism."
be willing to accept and even seek correction.
rejoice that god considers us worth the time and trouble to correct.
repent; refine yourself; sanctify yourself; redirect your life course when god knows a better path.
parents can and must correct and even chasten.
"when a person in a position to correct another fails to do so, he is thinking of himself."
"if we resist correction, others may discontinue offering it altogether. if we repeatedly fail to act on the chastening of a loving god, then he too will desist."
become self-correcting
analyze your peformance in every assignment and task; determine what could be done better.
pray for god's love-inspired correction.
Elder Holland - An Ensign to the Nations
elder holland's talk is one of those talks that you just have to listen to. it can't be summarized. his talks are always powerful and inspiring. with that said, there was one part i felt was especially good.
"as the path of discipleship ascends, that trail gets ever more narrow until we come to that knee-buckling pinnacle of the sermon of which elder christofferson just spoke: 'be ye therefore perfect, even as your father which is in heaven is perfect.' what was gentle in the lowlands of initial loyalty becomes deeply strenuous and very demanding at the summit of true discipleship.
President Monson - At Parting
be good citizen of the nations and communities.
reach out to those of other faiths as well as those of our own.
be examples of honesty and integrity wherever you go and whatever you do.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
The Temple, Family and the Power of Prayer
Our family drove to Salt Lake City last month to attend two weddings; one for my sister-in-law and another for my niece. I had quite a few powerful spiritual experiences there.
First off, I want to make a simple comment on the power of prayer. Time and time again, I have seen our family "rally around" someone who needed our faith. We prayed faithfully, as a family, for something we knew was a righteous desire. Often, we would pray for months and even years for the desire of our hearts. It worked. Our prayers were answered. Prayer works.
In the weeks leading up to my sister-in-law's wedding, we all were discussing if and how we would pull off doing a session together as a family in the SLC temple. The challenge was finding someone to babysit the kids, get to the temple in time, then pick up the kids before making it on time to the wedding dinner. There was discussion about whether it was even prudent to do a session with the family. But in the end, things worked out. It was a bit stressful ensuring the kids were ok and then getting to the temple, but in the end, we all made it there on time.
We sat together. The image of seeing us all together in the SLC temple in the various rooms - especially the Celestial room - was powerful. My wife's family, growing up, had a motto that was reduced to CKOB - Celestial Kingdom or Bust. Seeing them all, with their spouses in the Celestial room was a preview of what is to come. I felt privileged to be a part of that session.
Looking back, I understand precisely why my father-in-law and mother-in-law desired to do a session so badly.
And now a quick word about the Temple - as we walked to the different rooms in the SLC temple, I was overcome with powerful emotion as I felt the collective spirits who have walked those halls all these past years. As I examined the intricate designs and architecture, I realized the profound dedication and sacrifice those saints made to build the SLC temple. They too desired the blessings of the temple for their posterity and they wanted to pass that legacy on to their children and grandchildren. That legacy lives on today as we see the explosion of growth of temples throughout the world. And we have as many temples in the world today because of the sacrifice of those saints who built the Kirtland, the Nauvoo, the St. George, the Manti, the Logan and Salt Lake City temples. I will never forget those feelings I felt in the SLC temple ... they will always come back to me each time I attend any temple.
First off, I want to make a simple comment on the power of prayer. Time and time again, I have seen our family "rally around" someone who needed our faith. We prayed faithfully, as a family, for something we knew was a righteous desire. Often, we would pray for months and even years for the desire of our hearts. It worked. Our prayers were answered. Prayer works.
In the weeks leading up to my sister-in-law's wedding, we all were discussing if and how we would pull off doing a session together as a family in the SLC temple. The challenge was finding someone to babysit the kids, get to the temple in time, then pick up the kids before making it on time to the wedding dinner. There was discussion about whether it was even prudent to do a session with the family. But in the end, things worked out. It was a bit stressful ensuring the kids were ok and then getting to the temple, but in the end, we all made it there on time.
We sat together. The image of seeing us all together in the SLC temple in the various rooms - especially the Celestial room - was powerful. My wife's family, growing up, had a motto that was reduced to CKOB - Celestial Kingdom or Bust. Seeing them all, with their spouses in the Celestial room was a preview of what is to come. I felt privileged to be a part of that session.
Looking back, I understand precisely why my father-in-law and mother-in-law desired to do a session so badly.
And now a quick word about the Temple - as we walked to the different rooms in the SLC temple, I was overcome with powerful emotion as I felt the collective spirits who have walked those halls all these past years. As I examined the intricate designs and architecture, I realized the profound dedication and sacrifice those saints made to build the SLC temple. They too desired the blessings of the temple for their posterity and they wanted to pass that legacy on to their children and grandchildren. That legacy lives on today as we see the explosion of growth of temples throughout the world. And we have as many temples in the world today because of the sacrifice of those saints who built the Kirtland, the Nauvoo, the St. George, the Manti, the Logan and Salt Lake City temples. I will never forget those feelings I felt in the SLC temple ... they will always come back to me each time I attend any temple.
Tuesday, August 02, 2011
Love at Home
The First Presidency Message this month is called "Love at Home."
The one paragraph from President Monson, that really stood out to me was the one entitled What is Most Important. It states: “What is most important almost always involves the people around us. Often we assume that they must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know. Wrote William Shakespeare, ‘They do not love that do not show their love.’ We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us.”
Jill and I recently watched the last Harry Potter movie. And as cheesy as it sounds, my favorite part of the whole movie was when Harry was able to talk to his parents before facing Tom Riddle. The whole premise of the Harry Potter series is based on love; on the one action of Lily Potter when she attempted to save her son.
Now for a real-life example of family love. We recently had some good friends stay at our home for the weekend. We always knew we were somewhat distantly related. But this time, we got out the genealogy book my parents wrote and looked up some pedigree charts. We found and read all the stories about how the Putnams and Waltons were connected. We found that Israel Putnam and Ruth Walton married and thus connected these two families. We also read that Israel's father (Artemus) was baptized by George Walton on February 14, 1844! As we told our kids these stories, their already strong friendship grew even stronger. Again, we already knew we were distantly related somehow, but when it was confirmed and we knew we were family, our love for each other became sweeter and stronger. Family is everything! Family is love!
The one paragraph from President Monson, that really stood out to me was the one entitled What is Most Important. It states: “What is most important almost always involves the people around us. Often we assume that they must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know. Wrote William Shakespeare, ‘They do not love that do not show their love.’ We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us.”
Jill and I recently watched the last Harry Potter movie. And as cheesy as it sounds, my favorite part of the whole movie was when Harry was able to talk to his parents before facing Tom Riddle. The whole premise of the Harry Potter series is based on love; on the one action of Lily Potter when she attempted to save her son.
Now for a real-life example of family love. We recently had some good friends stay at our home for the weekend. We always knew we were somewhat distantly related. But this time, we got out the genealogy book my parents wrote and looked up some pedigree charts. We found and read all the stories about how the Putnams and Waltons were connected. We found that Israel Putnam and Ruth Walton married and thus connected these two families. We also read that Israel's father (Artemus) was baptized by George Walton on February 14, 1844! As we told our kids these stories, their already strong friendship grew even stronger. Again, we already knew we were distantly related somehow, but when it was confirmed and we knew we were family, our love for each other became sweeter and stronger. Family is everything! Family is love!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
2 Nephi 4:15-16
2 Nephi 4:15-16 ~ And upon these I write the things of my soul, and many of the scriptures which are engraven upon the plates of brass. For my soul delighteth in the scriptures, and my heart pondereth them, and writeth them for the learning and the profit of my children.
Behold, my soul delighteth in the things of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard.
We have been commanded by the prophets to always read and study the scriptures. We read the scriptures to learn about the commandments of God. We also learn how to apply the commandments to our life. We will only be happy and find joy in this life by keeping the commandments and we learn the commandments by reading the scriptures. There have been times and seasons in my life when I’ve not been so faithful in reading the scriptures - and I've noticed my general happiness decline. This scripture helps me to remember that there is a vast pool of knowledge in the scriptures and if we just open and read them, we’ll be happier for doing so.
Behold, my soul delighteth in the things of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard.
We have been commanded by the prophets to always read and study the scriptures. We read the scriptures to learn about the commandments of God. We also learn how to apply the commandments to our life. We will only be happy and find joy in this life by keeping the commandments and we learn the commandments by reading the scriptures. There have been times and seasons in my life when I’ve not been so faithful in reading the scriptures - and I've noticed my general happiness decline. This scripture helps me to remember that there is a vast pool of knowledge in the scriptures and if we just open and read them, we’ll be happier for doing so.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
The Best Relief Society Lesson I Never Sat Through
Later, I'll follow-up with a few other posts about why this lesson struck me so.
* denotes name has been changed.
Here it is ... enjoy
The theme for the women’s conference at BYU this year was “By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.” Alma 37:6
Let’s dissect that phrase for a minute.
What great things do we want to come to pass? Ultimately, the truly great thing we all want is exaltation for us and our family.
So what are the small and simple things that can greatly affect us and our families in that journey to exaltation?
To name a few: Scripture Study, Prayer, Sabbath observance, faith, repentance, partaking of the sacrament, word of wisdom, what you view, what you read, what you listen to, your internet practices, magnifying your calling, modesty, tithing, temple attendance. The Strength of Youth is a great guide – for youth of ALL ages. As are the most recent Conference issues of the Ensign.
Why are these small things so important? Is there one we can ignore without it affecting us spiritually?
Satan knows this principle and uses it conversely. Therefore, he will do all in his power to diminish your resolve to do the small and simple things? Does he tell you these small things really won’t matter on the day of judgment? Does he tell you it is so small and simple it won’t make that big of a difference? You don’t have to be so strict, so exact, so undeviating. Or does he tell you that you don’t have time to worry about those little things, because you are doing other good things? Those things can wait.
Lehi’s dream offers insight. If you have seen an artist rendition of it you will note the rod of iron is barely visible but the large and spacious building can’t be missed. That is true of the world we live in. If we are not careful the world’s message can easily overwhelm the Lord’s. Satan is working hard to make sure there are ample things to distract and dissuade us from those small and simple things.
I know as Latter-day Saint women we constantly have to make stands – with neighbors, with fellow employees, with schools, and sometimes even with our families. It gets exhausting. You roll your eyes and sometimes wonder – is this small and simple thing THAT important? Is it worth yet one more stand? Sometimes we may feel we can’t fight them all so let’s just choose a few. But be careful of such a diminished resolve. Be careful which battles you choose NOT to fight. What small and simple things will you stop teaching and doing?
I don’t know how else to explain what I am seeing and feeling concerning the urgency for each of us to entrench ourselves and stand firm in even, or maybe especially, the small and simple things. So I’m going to give you same examples to hopefully better illustrate my point.
You have often heard me speak of John*, my wild and crazy son. John was unique. He wasn’t bad or rebellious. He never was in the Bishop’s office with a word of wisdom problem or morality issue. But John did give me some worries in that he questioned things. He has always needed to know the why of things. Until he had resolved things completely in his mind, he remained very anxious about them, almost agitated.
It took me a long time before I realized the reason he argued every point was because he was just thinking out loud. The need to find out “why” was so innate in him. If he didn’t see the logic behind the rule, he saw no reason to amend his behavior or accept it as a principle of the Gospel. It was almost as if there was a distrust on his part until we could prove it. Where in the scriptures does it say that! Why?! It couldn’t be just because you said so. The answer had to be logical and concise. He didn’t want to hear parables or analogies – just a straight logical answer.
I felt as if I was battling him every day of my life. There was always a thread of contention in our home. I was being drained by it. My husband came home for some of it, but let’s face it moms, we are on the front line more hours in a day than our spouses.
My husband and I discussed it once and wondered if I should just give it a rest and only fight the battles that were BIG. But after prayer we decided against it. We wondered if by doing it like that we might undermine the logic in the battles we did fight. After all, everything in the gospel is interconnected. Why would we spend so much time teaching him why to obey one thing and then not another – when both were said by a prophet or recorded in scripture. He’d be on to that hypocrisy in a heartbeat and perhaps be convinced none of it was true. We decided we would have to continue to make every stand, no matter how small. We resolved that even if John left unconvinced of why, he would have at least heard the truth, the Lord’s stand, from our mouths.
A fateful day came. A new young man moved into the ward with a bit of an attitude and John was influenced by him. It seemed that all of the sudden John's questions of why were coming more often and decidedly more antagonistically. On that fateful Saturday, John walked into our home, and the issue of face cards came up. He spoke of a new game he had just learned to play – poker.
But was it really that big of a deal? Yeah, well … it’s just a game. It’s just cards.
True to our decision, my husband didn’t hesitate. He told John the church didn’t approve of such things. At first, John was angry and shocked. He accused us of lying to him. The church had nothing to say about simple little games.
My husband then went to the book shelve and opened MORMON DOCTRINE by Elder Bruce R. McConkie. He read to John what the church’s stand is on face cards and why. John conceded.
Two days later, the Mormon Doctrine was missing from the bookshelf. About three weeks later my twelve year old son stepped into the kitchen with that book in his hand. Trying to act nonchalant about it, John simply asked, “Hey, has this guy written anything else?”
Keeping a straight face was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I led John to the bookshelf and showed him the many other books Elder McConkie had written.
Oh, I would love to say that John changed immediately that day, but he didn’t. John still struggled to get his “whys” fast enough. He still struggled to incorporate what he was learning into his behavior. There were still some intense moments in our home.
However, just over six years later, on John's nineteenth birthday, he entered the MTC – having read every published book written by Elder Bruce R. McConkie. Elder McConkie spoke John's language. He had a way of stating the whys boldly and concisely.
Today John teaches seminary for the Church. He was married in the temple and has three children. His first child is a son. His name is Bruce for a reason.
Standing firm for small and simple things can change lives.
Now the next story.
As a RS president I have been dealing with something I never dreamt I would in the First Ward – a homeless sister.
At first it was so frustrating. The church is really not equipped to deal with homelessness. We encourage people to return to their families for help or to the government or faith based organization that can give them housing. For many reasons this woman felt she was unable to do any of those things.
One day I just sat and talked with her. I was trying to figure out how she got to where she was and was trying to analyze her reasoning. She was the product of a dysfunctional family, consequently with some emotional problems, which probably led to her failed marriage. Then she was involved in a horrible car accident that left her slightly disabled. She had managed to find a place to live on her own but lost it in a blink when Hurricane Ike hit. She had been living in her car ever sense. During this conversation, it dawned on me how frighteningly close all of us are to homelessness. There is some statistic at HAAM that suggests it might be only 5 events that separates most of us from being without a home.
As I thought on that more, I realized how frighteningly close all of us are to inactivity in the church and the loss of our eternal home. How many of those small and simple things can we give up and not find ourselves in that position? Five? I think it is less. If we stop doing even one for an extended period of time we inevitably will stop another and then another. Soon we will have too little oil to keep our lamps lit and none in reserve. Doing the small and simply things makes more of a difference than we sometimes realize.
I feel to talk of one more story.
I think of Mary Fielding Smith as she trudged across the plains – widowed and with little means to support herself and the young family left to her care. The decision to go west seemed small. Follow the prophet. What was left for her in Nauvoo? Getting up every morning along the trail, preparing food, having a morning prayer, following her priesthood leaders, and organizing her family to leave each day at some point must have become as routine for her as it is for us. She just kept going. She just kept doing what she knew was right – no matter what. She stood up to those who lacked the faith she had. She vigilantly taught her children her faith by word and example. She didn’t budge. I don’t think she thought she was doing anything great. It was the small and simple things that kept her faith lit and her family together. And what great thing came of it? Her son, Joseph, was ordained an apostle at the age of 27. He became a Prophet as did her grandson. Several other descendents of the children she raised were either members of the Quorum of the Twelve or were married to a member of the Quorum of the Twelve. Today Elder Ballard serves in that Quorum.
Again what was that great thing we want? What are those small and simple things? Why are they so important? Is there one we can ignore without it affecting us spiritually?
By small and simple things great things truly can come to pass. I feel we ignore them at our own peril and at the peril of our families.
Now I know many of you are facing very difficult challenges – things you never dreamt you would be facing – things your parents and friends have never faced. We live in turbulent times. You need answers. I promise you as you do these small and simple things the Lord will direct you to know how to face these challenges. It might be to know what doctor to go to, what course of treatment is best, how to overcome an addiction, where to apply for a job, when to seek more education or how to handle a strong-willed child. The Lord has the answer to every challenge you face in life. Doing the small and simple things will open up an avenue of revelation to guide you through every challenge. I bear my witness that is true.
I pray we will take Elder Uchtdorf’s advice from the October general conference. “There is a beauty and clarity that comes from simplicity that we sometimes do not appreciate in our thirst for intricate solutions.”
He continued, “My dear brothers and sisters, we would do well to slow down a little, proceed at the optimum speed for our circumstances, focus on the significant, lift up our eyes, and truly see the things that matter most. Let us be mindful of the foundational precepts our Heavenly Father has given to His children that will establish the basis of a rich and fruitful mortal life with promises of eternal happiness. They will teach us to do “all these things … in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that [we] should run faster than [we have] strength. [But] it is expedient that [we] should be diligent, [and] thereby … win the prize. Brothers and sisters, diligently doing the things that matter most will lead us to the Savior of the world.”
Slow down, Sisters, and make sure that above all else you are tending to the small and simple things.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
The Temple Veil and Christ's Body
I just read this post a few minutes ago - wow!The post refers to Hebrews 10:19-20 and reads:
Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
I like to read Bible scriptures first in the KJV and then in the NIV. I think the footnote in the NIV is quite insightful. It says, "When Jesus died, the curtain separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place was "torn in two from top to bottom" (Mark 15:38). The curtain symbolizes the body of Christ in terms of suffering: Like the curtain, his body was torn to open the way into the divince presence."
The other scripture she notes in her post is John 20:26-27 which reads:
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.
This connection between feeling the marks in the Savior's body and the temple was made to me while I was on my mission. A group of Church members were passing through Guatemala and happened to stay in the same hotel as we were (we were at a Zone Conference). They talked of how the Savior ministered to the Nephites and how it relates to the temple. It was eye-opening to say the least.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Stretched Forth His Hand
This second visual thought makes more sense when you read Jacob 5:47: But what could I have done more in my vineyard? Have I slackened mine hand, that I have not nourished it? Nay, I have nourished it, and I have digged about it, and I have pruned it, and I have dunged it; and I have stretched forth mine hand almost all the day long, and the end draweth nigh. And it grieveth me that I should hew down all the trees of my vineyard, and cast them into the fire that they should be burned. Who is it that has corrupted my vineyard?
In this context, the Lord is holding out a hand of rescue. I now think that whenever a prophet stretches forth his hand before speaking, his hand is reaching out as if to help someone out of a hole, not reaching his hand to the sky.
Another context to think about is the veil at the temple. The next time you go, listen for those words and note the actions.
Lastly, there are a few references of hands being stretched forth in the New Testament one of which is the Lord rescuing Peter after Peter's faith begins to falter while trying to walk on water.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Desire
After Elder Oaks' talk on desire this last General Conference, I read the Elder Maxwell talk he referenced. Both talks are exceptional.
A few things to note ...
1) Desires can be changed/taught
2) Righteous desires need to be moulded to the law of God
3) The initiation of desire is entirely up to us.
4) We can initiate any desire with a vision of what is to be
And now for the meaty quotes ...
First from Neal A. Maxwell:
"Desire denotes a real longing or craving ... much more than passive preferences or fleeting feelings."
"What we insistently desire, over time, is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity."
"Righteous desires need to be relentless."
"it is our own desires which determine the sizing and the attractiveness of various temptations. We set our thermostats as to temptations."
Quoting Brigham Young, he said, "the men and women, who desire to obtain seats in the celestial kingdom, will find that they must battle every day."
Brigham Young also said, "It is evident that many who understand the truth do not govern themselves by it; consequently, no matter how true and beautiful truth is, you have to take the passions of the people and mould them to the law of God."
"Each assertion of a righteous desire, each act of service, and each act of worship, however small and incremental, adds to our spiritual momentum." I like this quote because it confirms the idiom that came to my mind once ... obedience is spiritual grease.
"Unquestionably, parents have such a profound role in assisting in the educating of our desires, especially when parents combine explanation and exemplification!"
"a loving God will work with us, but the initiating particle of desire which ignites the spark must be our own!"
And now a few from Elder Oaks:
"Desires dictate our priorities, priorities shape our choices, and choices determine our actions. The desires we act on determine our changing, our achieving, and our becoming."
"How do we develop desires? ... We we have a vision of what we can become, our desire and our power to act increase enormously." He spoke of Aron Ralston as an example of getting that vision. As I contemplated this quote, I decided that the one event in my life that I would love to experience and that I desire most is seeing each of my children walk out of the temple ... either from getting their endowments or from marriage. This is the one thought that I use to drive my desire.
This topic has been on my mind the last few weeks. I've gone back a few times to these articles and they have provided fortification. I like that quote about desire and temptation. If we find that one desire that will drive us and let it work in us (see Alma 32:27), we can come back to it again and again and we can use it to manage our temptations. But in thinking about this a bit, the one desire must be somewhat grand and have the capacity to manage many of your actions and thoughts. A local desire won't work.
Read the articles and think about it. It is truly amazing, the power of desire.
“According to the Desire of [Our] Hearts” by Neal A. Maxwell
"Desire" by Dallin H. Oaks
A few things to note ...
1) Desires can be changed/taught
2) Righteous desires need to be moulded to the law of God
3) The initiation of desire is entirely up to us.
4) We can initiate any desire with a vision of what is to be
And now for the meaty quotes ...
First from Neal A. Maxwell:
"Desire denotes a real longing or craving ... much more than passive preferences or fleeting feelings."
"What we insistently desire, over time, is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity."
"Righteous desires need to be relentless."
"it is our own desires which determine the sizing and the attractiveness of various temptations. We set our thermostats as to temptations."
Quoting Brigham Young, he said, "the men and women, who desire to obtain seats in the celestial kingdom, will find that they must battle every day."
Brigham Young also said, "It is evident that many who understand the truth do not govern themselves by it; consequently, no matter how true and beautiful truth is, you have to take the passions of the people and mould them to the law of God."
"Each assertion of a righteous desire, each act of service, and each act of worship, however small and incremental, adds to our spiritual momentum." I like this quote because it confirms the idiom that came to my mind once ... obedience is spiritual grease.
"Unquestionably, parents have such a profound role in assisting in the educating of our desires, especially when parents combine explanation and exemplification!"
"a loving God will work with us, but the initiating particle of desire which ignites the spark must be our own!"
And now a few from Elder Oaks:
"Desires dictate our priorities, priorities shape our choices, and choices determine our actions. The desires we act on determine our changing, our achieving, and our becoming."
"How do we develop desires? ... We we have a vision of what we can become, our desire and our power to act increase enormously." He spoke of Aron Ralston as an example of getting that vision. As I contemplated this quote, I decided that the one event in my life that I would love to experience and that I desire most is seeing each of my children walk out of the temple ... either from getting their endowments or from marriage. This is the one thought that I use to drive my desire.
This topic has been on my mind the last few weeks. I've gone back a few times to these articles and they have provided fortification. I like that quote about desire and temptation. If we find that one desire that will drive us and let it work in us (see Alma 32:27), we can come back to it again and again and we can use it to manage our temptations. But in thinking about this a bit, the one desire must be somewhat grand and have the capacity to manage many of your actions and thoughts. A local desire won't work.
Read the articles and think about it. It is truly amazing, the power of desire.
“According to the Desire of [Our] Hearts” by Neal A. Maxwell
"Desire" by Dallin H. Oaks
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Sunday School Lesson Notes from Ward Conference
The counselor in our stake presidency gave the lesson in our Sunday School today. I always enjoy his talks and discussions. Despite the fact that I feel so overwhelmed at the fact of how much I yet lack, when listening to him, I still feel animated to go and do.
However, this hodge-podge lesson he gave, fell a bit flat. But there were some gems.
He started off by asking what the themes were in Sacrament Meeting when the stake president spoke along with the bishop.
- strengthen the family
- rescue
- youth attendance to meetings
- missionary tours of the buildings
- faith in Christ
- make and keep covenants
- act, don't wait
- gain a testimony
He spoke that these 'meetings' are not meetings; but they are revelatory sessions.
Boys have been called as missionaries. We need more of them and we need them to be better prepared missionaries.
We need to strengthen the Melchizedek Priesthood base ... it is about the fathers of the boys.
Come unto Christ; rejoice in Christ.
Pay attention to the media - make sure it is not consuming your home.
Study the scriptures thirty minutes a day. Part of that should be in the Book of Mormon.
Read the first chapter in the new Handbook of Instructions.
- actions, desires of heart and kind of person you've become - these are the basis of your judgement.
Then he shared a story of John Robinson who wrote a letter to the people on the Mayflower. (Somehow he was a descendant of someone in the Mayflower or even John Robinson himself .. and he learned this while do Family History work.) He advised them to repent daily. If they did not, they would be swallowed by the dangers of others.
His counsel to us is: think of unrepented sins; think of repented sins.
However, this hodge-podge lesson he gave, fell a bit flat. But there were some gems.
He started off by asking what the themes were in Sacrament Meeting when the stake president spoke along with the bishop.
- strengthen the family
- rescue
- youth attendance to meetings
- missionary tours of the buildings
- faith in Christ
- make and keep covenants
- act, don't wait
- gain a testimony
He spoke that these 'meetings' are not meetings; but they are revelatory sessions.
Boys have been called as missionaries. We need more of them and we need them to be better prepared missionaries.
We need to strengthen the Melchizedek Priesthood base ... it is about the fathers of the boys.
Come unto Christ; rejoice in Christ.
Pay attention to the media - make sure it is not consuming your home.
Study the scriptures thirty minutes a day. Part of that should be in the Book of Mormon.
Read the first chapter in the new Handbook of Instructions.
- actions, desires of heart and kind of person you've become - these are the basis of your judgement.
Then he shared a story of John Robinson who wrote a letter to the people on the Mayflower. (Somehow he was a descendant of someone in the Mayflower or even John Robinson himself .. and he learned this while do Family History work.) He advised them to repent daily. If they did not, they would be swallowed by the dangers of others.
His counsel to us is: think of unrepented sins; think of repented sins.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Spiritual Vertigo Video
This is a great video - I loved seeing the P-51s. The lesson from vertigo is excellent.
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
Enduring to the End
Endure is an interesting word. It has been on my mind the last couple of weeks. I continue to mull over it.
Thus far, I've learned two things that are certain:
1) Enduring is about expanding our capacity ... our capacity to deal with adversity, life's challenges, stress, day to day minutiae - everything. It deals with how much we can handle.
2) Enduring is about strengthening - being hardened - holding ground on the battle's we've already won. It deals with how we can hold on to the gains we've made.
Combining these two thoughts, I liken enduring to battle. We must fight the battles before us ... we must take ground (capacity) and then hold it (strength). The cycle then continues - we move on to the next battle - confront the next challenge, deal with it, learn from it and hold on to it. This cycle continues all through our life.
Here are the articles I've been reading, annotating and re-reading again.
Neal A. Maxwell, "“Endure It Well”", Ensign, May 1990, 33
Neal A. Maxwell, "Enduring Well", Ensign, Apr. 1997, 7
Russell M. Nelson, "Endure and Be Lifted Up", Ensign, May 1997, 70
Robert D. Hales, "“Behold, We Count Them Happy Which Endure”", Ensign, May 1998, 75
Joseph B. Wirthlin, "Press On", Ensign, Nov. 2004, 101–4
Emma Petty Addams, "Enduring Well", Ensign, Mar. 2010, 34–37
I've several more articles that I'm reading now too. Although these deal more specifically with adversity. But I think the lessons from enduring well and dealing with adversity are the same.
Thus far, I've learned two things that are certain:
1) Enduring is about expanding our capacity ... our capacity to deal with adversity, life's challenges, stress, day to day minutiae - everything. It deals with how much we can handle.
2) Enduring is about strengthening - being hardened - holding ground on the battle's we've already won. It deals with how we can hold on to the gains we've made.
Combining these two thoughts, I liken enduring to battle. We must fight the battles before us ... we must take ground (capacity) and then hold it (strength). The cycle then continues - we move on to the next battle - confront the next challenge, deal with it, learn from it and hold on to it. This cycle continues all through our life.
Here are the articles I've been reading, annotating and re-reading again.
Neal A. Maxwell, "“Endure It Well”", Ensign, May 1990, 33
Neal A. Maxwell, "Enduring Well", Ensign, Apr. 1997, 7
Russell M. Nelson, "Endure and Be Lifted Up", Ensign, May 1997, 70
Robert D. Hales, "“Behold, We Count Them Happy Which Endure”", Ensign, May 1998, 75
Joseph B. Wirthlin, "Press On", Ensign, Nov. 2004, 101–4
Emma Petty Addams, "Enduring Well", Ensign, Mar. 2010, 34–37
I've several more articles that I'm reading now too. Although these deal more specifically with adversity. But I think the lessons from enduring well and dealing with adversity are the same.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Five Prophetic Priorities
Our Stake President spoke in our ward today. He's discussed the Five Prophetic Priorities before and he spoke on them again today. I felt impressed to take notes.
1) Build faith in Christ
2) Strengthen the Family
3) Convert, Retain, Activate
4) Strengthen Melchizedek Priesthood base
5) Prepare and increase the number of full-time missionaries
He then shared with us his notes while he reviewed every General Conference talk President Monson has given since he became prophet.
* "serious attention" to missionary work. Young Men: prepare now. Age 8 is not too early to begin preparing.
* Gratitude - be thankful for what God has given us.
* Preparing for missions
* Temple - the means of strengthening the family
* Anger
* We should pray for nations to open the doors to the missionaries. He said we should include this plea in our personal prayers as well as our prayers from the pulpits.
* Doing something for someone
* Be of good cheer
* Avoid pornography and study the messages of General Conference
* Pray for the opening of areas (again)
* Learn, Do, Be.
* Reaching out to others.
* Joy in the Journey
* Be an example of teachings of Christ. Love our families and treat our wives with dignity.
President Paulson then asked, "Has he talked about the five prophetic priorities?" Yes!
It was a good talk. I'm encouraged to go back and study those talks again from the last few General Conferences.
I've been diligent in taking notes in Gospel Doctrine class too. Go on over to my New Testament Study blog to read notes I took from today.
1) Build faith in Christ
2) Strengthen the Family
3) Convert, Retain, Activate
4) Strengthen Melchizedek Priesthood base
5) Prepare and increase the number of full-time missionaries
He then shared with us his notes while he reviewed every General Conference talk President Monson has given since he became prophet.
* "serious attention" to missionary work. Young Men: prepare now. Age 8 is not too early to begin preparing.
* Gratitude - be thankful for what God has given us.
* Preparing for missions
* Temple - the means of strengthening the family
* Anger
* We should pray for nations to open the doors to the missionaries. He said we should include this plea in our personal prayers as well as our prayers from the pulpits.
* Doing something for someone
* Be of good cheer
* Avoid pornography and study the messages of General Conference
* Pray for the opening of areas (again)
* Learn, Do, Be.
* Reaching out to others.
* Joy in the Journey
* Be an example of teachings of Christ. Love our families and treat our wives with dignity.
President Paulson then asked, "Has he talked about the five prophetic priorities?" Yes!
It was a good talk. I'm encouraged to go back and study those talks again from the last few General Conferences.
I've been diligent in taking notes in Gospel Doctrine class too. Go on over to my New Testament Study blog to read notes I took from today.
Sunday, February 06, 2011
Kingwood Stake Conference Notes
Our stake, along with all the other stakes of Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico participated in a sattelite broadcast from SLC. I jotted down a few notes.
Elder Marlin K. Jensen talked about translating beliefs into action. He quoted Mosiah 4:10 where King Benjamin said, "If ye believe all these things see that ye do them." Covenants help us link beliefs into actions and ordinances.
He talked about a prosperity study that was done on a bunch of nations. The one thing that was consistently linked to a nations prosperity was not resources, race or education; rather it was contract-keeping. He then told of the example of Zoram and Nephi. So strong were oaths in Nephi's time, that when Zoram made an oath that he would not try to flee from them, Nephi and his brothers were relieved - they did not have to worry about Zoram. He said, in the end, after all has been said and done, all that will matter will be if you have kept your word - your covenants. He also reminded us all of Karl G. Maeser's quote: "I have been asked what I mean by 'word of honor.' I will tell you. Place me behind prison walls--walls of stone ever so high, ever so thick, reaching ever so far into the ground--there is a possibility that in some way or another I may escape; but stand me on the floor and draw a chalk line around me and have me give my word of honor never to cross it. Can I get out of the circle? No. Never! I'd die first!"
Sister Ann M. Dibb spoke next. She spoke of virtue. She talked about a sister from Nacogdoches who lived a virtuous life. She said that everything this sister did or said was centered around being a Mormon. This sister said, "being a member of the Church was a party of my identity." Sister Dibb also spoke of PROS. P for pray; R for read from the Book of Mormon; O for obeay the standards; and S for smile!
Elder Ballard spoke next. He gave some stats ... 75 stakes + 3 districts in Texas/OK/NM. There are over 380,000 members in those 3 states. He spoke a bit about Lucien Woodards? He was sent from the Prophet Joseph Smith to see about a land purchase in Texas. Zodiac, Texas was first settled by members.
He then spoke of keeping the doctrine of Christ simple. He then discussed and commented on the first principals and ordiances of the Gospel as outlined in the 4th Article of Faith. He also included the enduring to the end. With regard to enduring to the end, he related a story. There was this 90-year-old patriarch in his ward. He prayed every night to die in faithfulness. Elder Ballard approached this brother and asked him "aren't you safe?" This brother grabbed Elder Ballad by the lapels of his jacket and said, "look me in the eyes! No man is ever safe until he endures to the very end!"
Lastly, President Monson spoke. His talk was very similiar to several talks he's given recently. The topic was rescueing. Our ward has been focused on rescueing ... members, ancestors, and neighbors who are not of our faith. He has referred several times to the painting by J.M.W. Turner entitled Shipwreck, the Rescue. President Monson calls this painting To the Rescue! I did some searching a while back and finally found the painting. I'll include it here for reference.
Elder Marlin K. Jensen talked about translating beliefs into action. He quoted Mosiah 4:10 where King Benjamin said, "If ye believe all these things see that ye do them." Covenants help us link beliefs into actions and ordinances.
He talked about a prosperity study that was done on a bunch of nations. The one thing that was consistently linked to a nations prosperity was not resources, race or education; rather it was contract-keeping. He then told of the example of Zoram and Nephi. So strong were oaths in Nephi's time, that when Zoram made an oath that he would not try to flee from them, Nephi and his brothers were relieved - they did not have to worry about Zoram. He said, in the end, after all has been said and done, all that will matter will be if you have kept your word - your covenants. He also reminded us all of Karl G. Maeser's quote: "I have been asked what I mean by 'word of honor.' I will tell you. Place me behind prison walls--walls of stone ever so high, ever so thick, reaching ever so far into the ground--there is a possibility that in some way or another I may escape; but stand me on the floor and draw a chalk line around me and have me give my word of honor never to cross it. Can I get out of the circle? No. Never! I'd die first!"
Sister Ann M. Dibb spoke next. She spoke of virtue. She talked about a sister from Nacogdoches who lived a virtuous life. She said that everything this sister did or said was centered around being a Mormon. This sister said, "being a member of the Church was a party of my identity." Sister Dibb also spoke of PROS. P for pray; R for read from the Book of Mormon; O for obeay the standards; and S for smile!
Elder Ballard spoke next. He gave some stats ... 75 stakes + 3 districts in Texas/OK/NM. There are over 380,000 members in those 3 states. He spoke a bit about Lucien Woodards? He was sent from the Prophet Joseph Smith to see about a land purchase in Texas. Zodiac, Texas was first settled by members.
He then spoke of keeping the doctrine of Christ simple. He then discussed and commented on the first principals and ordiances of the Gospel as outlined in the 4th Article of Faith. He also included the enduring to the end. With regard to enduring to the end, he related a story. There was this 90-year-old patriarch in his ward. He prayed every night to die in faithfulness. Elder Ballard approached this brother and asked him "aren't you safe?" This brother grabbed Elder Ballad by the lapels of his jacket and said, "look me in the eyes! No man is ever safe until he endures to the very end!"
Lastly, President Monson spoke. His talk was very similiar to several talks he's given recently. The topic was rescueing. Our ward has been focused on rescueing ... members, ancestors, and neighbors who are not of our faith. He has referred several times to the painting by J.M.W. Turner entitled Shipwreck, the Rescue. President Monson calls this painting To the Rescue! I did some searching a while back and finally found the painting. I'll include it here for reference.
Thursday, February 03, 2011
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Teaching in the Home
Here is my talk I gave December 26 in Sacrament Meeting:
Good afternoon everyone! I hope you had a very Merry Christmas, especially if you were able to spend it with family. And how appropriate that we can talk about families during this wonderful time of year.
Opening Quote
In 1995 in the April General Conference, President Packer said:
“Our Father’s plan requires that, like the generation of life itself, the shield of faith is to be made and fitted in the family. No two can be exactly alike. Each must be handcrafted to individual specifications.
“The plan designed by the Father contemplates that man and woman, husband and wife, working together, fit each child individually with a shield of faith made to buckle on so firmly that it can neither be pulled off nor penetrated by those fiery darts.
“It takes the steady strength of a father to hammer out the metal of it and the tender hands of a mother to polish and fit it on. Sometimes one parent is left to do it alone. It is difficult, but it can be done.
“In the Church we can teach about the materials from which a shield of faith is made: reverence, courage, chastity, repentance, forgiveness, compassion. In church we can learn how to assemble and fit them together. But the actual making of and fitting on of the shield of faith belongs in the family circle. Otherwise it may loosen and come off in a crisis” (Boyd K. Packer, "“The Shield of Faith”", Ensign, May 1995, 7)
To develop this unique shield of faith for each of our children, we must consecrate our time to the raising and teaching of our children these precious principals. Working together, the mother and the father can forge strong shields of faith for their children. They forge those strong shields by constantly teaching their children in the home.
The Role of the Church in Teaching in the Home
The Church and the family strengthen each other. Neither can thrive without the other. Parents need the Church in order to maintain strong faith and to learn what they must teach their children.
The Home and the Church
In reading the recently updated Church Handbook, I came across this passage:
"In the teachings and practices of the restored gospel, the family and the Church help and strengthen each other. To qualify for the blessings of eternal life, families need to learn the doctrines and receive the priesthood ordinances that are available only through the Church. To be a strong and vital organization, the Church needs righteous families.
"God has revealed a pattern of spiritual progress for individuals and families through ordinances, teaching, programs, and activities that are home centered and Church supported. Church organizations and programs exist to bless individuals and families and are not ends in themselves. Priesthood and auxiliary leaders and teachers seek to assist parents, not to supersede or replace them.
"Priesthood and auxiliary leaders must endeavor to strengthen the sacredness of the home by ensuring that all Church activities support the lives of individuals and families. Church leaders need to be careful not to overwhelm families with too many Church responsibilities. Parents and Church leaders work together to help individuals and families return to our Father in Heaven by following Jesus Christ." (Handbook 2)
Less Church Time, More Family Time
To add a finer light on that passage, let me share with you a quote from Elder Oaks from his classic talk Good, Better, Best:
"Stake presidencies and bishoprics need to exercise their authority to weed out the excessive and ineffective busyness that is sometimes required of the members of their stakes or wards. Church programs should focus on what is best (most effective) in achieving their assigned purposes without unduly infringing on the time families need for their “divinely appointed duties.”
"But here is a caution for families. Suppose Church leaders reduce the time required by Church meetings and activities in order to increase the time available for families to be together. This will not achieve its intended purpose unless individual family members—especially parents—vigorously act to increase family togetherness and one-on-one time. Team sports and technology toys like video games and the Internet are already winning away the time of our children and youth. Surfing the Internet is not better than serving the Lord or strengthening the family. Some young men and women are skipping Church youth activities or cutting family time in order to participate in soccer leagues or to pursue various entertainments. Some young people are amusing themselves to death—spiritual death." (Dallin H. Oaks, "Good, Better, Best", Ensign, Nov. 2007, 104–8)
In another quote, the First Presidency gave clear and direct counsel about where we are to place our priorities.
“We call upon parents to devote their best efforts to the teaching and rearing of their children in gospel principles which will keep them close to the Church. The home is the basis of a righteous life, and no other instrumentality can take its place or fulfill its essential functions in carrying forward this God-given responsibility.
“We counsel parents and children to give highest priority to family prayer, family home evening, gospel study and instruction, and wholesome family activities. However worthy and appropriate other demands or activities may be, they must not be permitted to displace the divinely-appointed duties that only parents and families can adequately perform” (First Presidency letter, Feb. 11, 1999).
Those are some very strong quotes from today’s prophets. I share them today to serve as a reminder of how best to spend our time. Time, it seems, is more precious than gold. It is possible to acquire more gold once it’s been spent, but once you spend time, you never get it back.
What Fathers Can Do to Teach in the Home
Besides these critical fundamentals of family prayer and scripture study, there are many other ways that we all can improve our time and quality of teaching with our children. In preparing for this talk, I came across two articles by Ezra Taft Benson. In the first, he directed his counsel to fathers; and in the second to mothers. In each of them, he cites 10 ways fathers and mothers can teach in the home and provide spiritual leadership for their families.
As I read through the list to the fathers, I thought of examples from my life that have demonstrated each point.
“1. Give father’s blessings to your children. Baptize and confirm your children. Ordain your sons to the priesthood. These will become spiritual highlights in the lives of your children.
One of my favorite traditions we have is the Sunday before the start of the new school year father’s blessing. At the beginning of each school year, we formally gather as a family and I give each of our children and Jill a blessing. Each time, we feel the Spirit strongly. I learned how to bless my children and wife from my father. The last beginning-of-the-school-year father’s blessing I received was in September of 2004. I had just started MBA School. Over the Labor Day break, I received a phone call from my sister telling me my grandmother had just passed away. I flew out to Utah to attend the funeral. Just before I was to fly back to Texas, I asked my father and brother for a blessing. It is a memory I hold dearly and I still draw strength every time I think of that blessing.
“2. Personally direct family prayers, daily scripture reading, and weekly family home evenings. Your personal involvement will show your children how important these activities really are.
Let me add to this second point … let your children see you study the scriptures personally. How wonderful an example for our children to see us practicing what we preach. It was on a cold winter day with dark gray clouds overhead outside and a blazing warm fire inside when I stepped into the quiet living room in our home in Oregon and I saw my dad sitting in his chair with his scriptures in his lap. The memory is so vivid that I can close my eyes and see all the details of that scene instantly. What made that impression so strong? I believe it was the power of the Holy Ghost.
And as a side comment – don’t be discouraged if you think your children are not learning from your example. I often find myself reflecting on my parents’ life when I have problems to face. Their examples have probably taught me more than anything else.
“3. Whenever possible, attend Church meetings together as a family. Family worship under your leadership is vital to your children’s spiritual welfare.
Again, this 3rd point strengthens the point that the family needs the Church and the Church needs the family.
“4. Go on daddy-daughter dates and father-and-sons’ outings with your children. As a family, go on campouts and picnics, to ball games and recitals, to school programs, and so forth. Having Dad there makes all the difference.
We are always supporting each other in our events. Especially at this time of year when the kids participate in Christmas programs and choir recitals. Jill is always keen on making these events special for the children. When Emma had a special part in her Nutcracker play, Jill’s mom gave her a Clara nutcracker. This year Ben played Santa Clause in his school play and Jill gave him a Mr & Mrs Clause nutcracker set. There is no doubt in my mind, that when Emma and Ben look on those nutcrackers when they are parents, they will tell their children the story of when they participated in their school concerts and their children will laugh and their love will increase.
“5. Build traditions of family vacations and trips and outings. These memories will never be forgotten by your children.
Everyone loves vacations and trips. I can recall every trip and vacation our family has taken. The first trip we took was at the end of May in 2001. We drove from Dallas to St. George – it was just Jill, Emma and me. We drove 19 straight hours to get there – arriving at 7:00am in the morning. We loved seeing west Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. We also loved spending time with my parents. The last trip we took was up to Arkansas to visit Jill’s family during Thanksgiving. I know Ben made at least one memory there when we took him with us to the turkey bowl. We played in the freezing rain. Although I may look back on that experience with a bit of a chill, I think Ben looks at it with warmness.
“6. Have regular one-on-one visits with your children. Let them talk about what they would like to. Teach them gospel principles. Teach them true values. Tell them you love them. Personal time with your children tells them where Dad puts his priorities.
I have tried many times to make one-on-one visits formal and regular. But I’ve found that there are countless opportunities to have one-on-one visits with my kids over the course of a week. When I pick Emma up from Activity Days, I ask her questions and try to engage in conversation with her. She usually has a funny story to tell me. With Ben, we usually talk while playing a game of chess or throwing the football outside. One day a week, I get to pick up Erick from the bus stop. As we walk home I get to ask him how his day went and what he learned at school. It is always fun asking him questions and getting a really thoughtful six year old opinion. Camille will usually come into my office early in the morning and give me a hug and sit on my lap. She also always has a story to tell me. At bedtime, Jill and I will always spend a few more minutes talking to them before kissing them goodnight.
“7. Teach your children to work, and show them the value of working toward a worthy goal.
There are many opportunities to teach children how to work. Both manual labor and mental exertion are considered work. At home, children learn how to work by diligently finishing homework, cleaning their rooms, helping clean the house, folding clothes, cleaning the kitchen and bathrooms, weeding the garden, trimming bushes, walking the dog and even by reading good books. Extracurricular activities such as playing sports, singing in the choir or participating in a school play can teach children how to be diligent and focused in order to achieve a goal. As children grow older, they can get a job to begin earning money for a mission or college.
“8. Encourage good music and art and literature in your homes. Homes that have a spirit of refinement and beauty will bless the lives of your children forever.
Learning the hymns both at home and at church helps children to learn to love singing. Having classical and uplifting music playing in the home invites the Spirit. Exposing children to good books and infecting them with a love of reading will last a lifetime. My love of music came from my Mom and her family. She would always encourage me to sing and enjoy music. She involved me in singing groups, take me to choir practice, she would play the piano and teach my sisters to play the piano. Our home was full of music. Both my grandparents were beautiful singers. My love of classical music began in earnest when we visited my uncle’s home. He would always pipe classical music through his home’s speaker system – I loved it. I loved it so much, I wrote a letter to him asking what music he was playing. He dubbed a cassette tape of his favorite music and sent it to me.
“9. As distances allow, regularly attend the temple with your wife. Your children will then better understand the importance of temple marriage and temple vows and the eternal family unit.
Temple attendance is one of those things you teach your children by example. I learned to love the temple first by seeing my parents attend and serve in the temple. When Jill and I attend, we make it a point to tell the kids we’re leaving to go to the temple.
“10. Have your children see your joy and satisfaction in service to the Church. This can become contagious to them, so they, too, will want to serve in the Church and will love the kingdom”
Again, like temple attendance, children learn best to serve when they see their parents serve. I see this in Jill’s family. Jill’s parents are always serving. Jill has told me of the many, many examples of the times her mom would serve others. And who can’t doubt the example of Jill’s mom when they see Jill. It seems that Jill is always baking a dinner for a family in the ward or a neighbor in need. And I regularly come home from work to see other people’s kids who she is watching while their mom is attending to an emergency. Jill is the most thoughtful, kindest person I know and thanks be to her and her mother!
(Ezra Taft Benson, "To the Fathers in Israel", Ensign, Nov. 1987, 48)
What Mothers Can do to Teach in the Home
President Benson wrote a similar top ten list for mothers with regard to teaching in the home. I’d like to briefly share this list with you and then share with you a few personal stories of mothers teaching in the home.
1. Be at the crossroads.
2. Be a real friend.
3. Read to your children.
4. Pray with your children.
5. Have weekly home evenings.
6. Be together at mealtimes.
7. Read scriptures daily.
8. Do things as a family.
9. Teach your children.
10. Truly love your children.
(President Ezra Taft Benson Address given at a Fireside for Parents, 22 February 1987)
Good afternoon everyone! I hope you had a very Merry Christmas, especially if you were able to spend it with family. And how appropriate that we can talk about families during this wonderful time of year.
Opening Quote
In 1995 in the April General Conference, President Packer said:
“Our Father’s plan requires that, like the generation of life itself, the shield of faith is to be made and fitted in the family. No two can be exactly alike. Each must be handcrafted to individual specifications.
“The plan designed by the Father contemplates that man and woman, husband and wife, working together, fit each child individually with a shield of faith made to buckle on so firmly that it can neither be pulled off nor penetrated by those fiery darts.
“It takes the steady strength of a father to hammer out the metal of it and the tender hands of a mother to polish and fit it on. Sometimes one parent is left to do it alone. It is difficult, but it can be done.
“In the Church we can teach about the materials from which a shield of faith is made: reverence, courage, chastity, repentance, forgiveness, compassion. In church we can learn how to assemble and fit them together. But the actual making of and fitting on of the shield of faith belongs in the family circle. Otherwise it may loosen and come off in a crisis” (Boyd K. Packer, "“The Shield of Faith”", Ensign, May 1995, 7)
To develop this unique shield of faith for each of our children, we must consecrate our time to the raising and teaching of our children these precious principals. Working together, the mother and the father can forge strong shields of faith for their children. They forge those strong shields by constantly teaching their children in the home.
The Role of the Church in Teaching in the Home
The Church and the family strengthen each other. Neither can thrive without the other. Parents need the Church in order to maintain strong faith and to learn what they must teach their children.
The Home and the Church
In reading the recently updated Church Handbook, I came across this passage:
"In the teachings and practices of the restored gospel, the family and the Church help and strengthen each other. To qualify for the blessings of eternal life, families need to learn the doctrines and receive the priesthood ordinances that are available only through the Church. To be a strong and vital organization, the Church needs righteous families.
"God has revealed a pattern of spiritual progress for individuals and families through ordinances, teaching, programs, and activities that are home centered and Church supported. Church organizations and programs exist to bless individuals and families and are not ends in themselves. Priesthood and auxiliary leaders and teachers seek to assist parents, not to supersede or replace them.
"Priesthood and auxiliary leaders must endeavor to strengthen the sacredness of the home by ensuring that all Church activities support the lives of individuals and families. Church leaders need to be careful not to overwhelm families with too many Church responsibilities. Parents and Church leaders work together to help individuals and families return to our Father in Heaven by following Jesus Christ." (Handbook 2)
Less Church Time, More Family Time
To add a finer light on that passage, let me share with you a quote from Elder Oaks from his classic talk Good, Better, Best:
"Stake presidencies and bishoprics need to exercise their authority to weed out the excessive and ineffective busyness that is sometimes required of the members of their stakes or wards. Church programs should focus on what is best (most effective) in achieving their assigned purposes without unduly infringing on the time families need for their “divinely appointed duties.”
"But here is a caution for families. Suppose Church leaders reduce the time required by Church meetings and activities in order to increase the time available for families to be together. This will not achieve its intended purpose unless individual family members—especially parents—vigorously act to increase family togetherness and one-on-one time. Team sports and technology toys like video games and the Internet are already winning away the time of our children and youth. Surfing the Internet is not better than serving the Lord or strengthening the family. Some young men and women are skipping Church youth activities or cutting family time in order to participate in soccer leagues or to pursue various entertainments. Some young people are amusing themselves to death—spiritual death." (Dallin H. Oaks, "Good, Better, Best", Ensign, Nov. 2007, 104–8)
In another quote, the First Presidency gave clear and direct counsel about where we are to place our priorities.
“We call upon parents to devote their best efforts to the teaching and rearing of their children in gospel principles which will keep them close to the Church. The home is the basis of a righteous life, and no other instrumentality can take its place or fulfill its essential functions in carrying forward this God-given responsibility.
“We counsel parents and children to give highest priority to family prayer, family home evening, gospel study and instruction, and wholesome family activities. However worthy and appropriate other demands or activities may be, they must not be permitted to displace the divinely-appointed duties that only parents and families can adequately perform” (First Presidency letter, Feb. 11, 1999).
Those are some very strong quotes from today’s prophets. I share them today to serve as a reminder of how best to spend our time. Time, it seems, is more precious than gold. It is possible to acquire more gold once it’s been spent, but once you spend time, you never get it back.
What Fathers Can Do to Teach in the Home
Besides these critical fundamentals of family prayer and scripture study, there are many other ways that we all can improve our time and quality of teaching with our children. In preparing for this talk, I came across two articles by Ezra Taft Benson. In the first, he directed his counsel to fathers; and in the second to mothers. In each of them, he cites 10 ways fathers and mothers can teach in the home and provide spiritual leadership for their families.
As I read through the list to the fathers, I thought of examples from my life that have demonstrated each point.
“1. Give father’s blessings to your children. Baptize and confirm your children. Ordain your sons to the priesthood. These will become spiritual highlights in the lives of your children.
One of my favorite traditions we have is the Sunday before the start of the new school year father’s blessing. At the beginning of each school year, we formally gather as a family and I give each of our children and Jill a blessing. Each time, we feel the Spirit strongly. I learned how to bless my children and wife from my father. The last beginning-of-the-school-year father’s blessing I received was in September of 2004. I had just started MBA School. Over the Labor Day break, I received a phone call from my sister telling me my grandmother had just passed away. I flew out to Utah to attend the funeral. Just before I was to fly back to Texas, I asked my father and brother for a blessing. It is a memory I hold dearly and I still draw strength every time I think of that blessing.
“2. Personally direct family prayers, daily scripture reading, and weekly family home evenings. Your personal involvement will show your children how important these activities really are.
Let me add to this second point … let your children see you study the scriptures personally. How wonderful an example for our children to see us practicing what we preach. It was on a cold winter day with dark gray clouds overhead outside and a blazing warm fire inside when I stepped into the quiet living room in our home in Oregon and I saw my dad sitting in his chair with his scriptures in his lap. The memory is so vivid that I can close my eyes and see all the details of that scene instantly. What made that impression so strong? I believe it was the power of the Holy Ghost.
And as a side comment – don’t be discouraged if you think your children are not learning from your example. I often find myself reflecting on my parents’ life when I have problems to face. Their examples have probably taught me more than anything else.
“3. Whenever possible, attend Church meetings together as a family. Family worship under your leadership is vital to your children’s spiritual welfare.
Again, this 3rd point strengthens the point that the family needs the Church and the Church needs the family.
“4. Go on daddy-daughter dates and father-and-sons’ outings with your children. As a family, go on campouts and picnics, to ball games and recitals, to school programs, and so forth. Having Dad there makes all the difference.
We are always supporting each other in our events. Especially at this time of year when the kids participate in Christmas programs and choir recitals. Jill is always keen on making these events special for the children. When Emma had a special part in her Nutcracker play, Jill’s mom gave her a Clara nutcracker. This year Ben played Santa Clause in his school play and Jill gave him a Mr & Mrs Clause nutcracker set. There is no doubt in my mind, that when Emma and Ben look on those nutcrackers when they are parents, they will tell their children the story of when they participated in their school concerts and their children will laugh and their love will increase.
“5. Build traditions of family vacations and trips and outings. These memories will never be forgotten by your children.
Everyone loves vacations and trips. I can recall every trip and vacation our family has taken. The first trip we took was at the end of May in 2001. We drove from Dallas to St. George – it was just Jill, Emma and me. We drove 19 straight hours to get there – arriving at 7:00am in the morning. We loved seeing west Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. We also loved spending time with my parents. The last trip we took was up to Arkansas to visit Jill’s family during Thanksgiving. I know Ben made at least one memory there when we took him with us to the turkey bowl. We played in the freezing rain. Although I may look back on that experience with a bit of a chill, I think Ben looks at it with warmness.
“6. Have regular one-on-one visits with your children. Let them talk about what they would like to. Teach them gospel principles. Teach them true values. Tell them you love them. Personal time with your children tells them where Dad puts his priorities.
I have tried many times to make one-on-one visits formal and regular. But I’ve found that there are countless opportunities to have one-on-one visits with my kids over the course of a week. When I pick Emma up from Activity Days, I ask her questions and try to engage in conversation with her. She usually has a funny story to tell me. With Ben, we usually talk while playing a game of chess or throwing the football outside. One day a week, I get to pick up Erick from the bus stop. As we walk home I get to ask him how his day went and what he learned at school. It is always fun asking him questions and getting a really thoughtful six year old opinion. Camille will usually come into my office early in the morning and give me a hug and sit on my lap. She also always has a story to tell me. At bedtime, Jill and I will always spend a few more minutes talking to them before kissing them goodnight.
“7. Teach your children to work, and show them the value of working toward a worthy goal.
There are many opportunities to teach children how to work. Both manual labor and mental exertion are considered work. At home, children learn how to work by diligently finishing homework, cleaning their rooms, helping clean the house, folding clothes, cleaning the kitchen and bathrooms, weeding the garden, trimming bushes, walking the dog and even by reading good books. Extracurricular activities such as playing sports, singing in the choir or participating in a school play can teach children how to be diligent and focused in order to achieve a goal. As children grow older, they can get a job to begin earning money for a mission or college.
“8. Encourage good music and art and literature in your homes. Homes that have a spirit of refinement and beauty will bless the lives of your children forever.
Learning the hymns both at home and at church helps children to learn to love singing. Having classical and uplifting music playing in the home invites the Spirit. Exposing children to good books and infecting them with a love of reading will last a lifetime. My love of music came from my Mom and her family. She would always encourage me to sing and enjoy music. She involved me in singing groups, take me to choir practice, she would play the piano and teach my sisters to play the piano. Our home was full of music. Both my grandparents were beautiful singers. My love of classical music began in earnest when we visited my uncle’s home. He would always pipe classical music through his home’s speaker system – I loved it. I loved it so much, I wrote a letter to him asking what music he was playing. He dubbed a cassette tape of his favorite music and sent it to me.
“9. As distances allow, regularly attend the temple with your wife. Your children will then better understand the importance of temple marriage and temple vows and the eternal family unit.
Temple attendance is one of those things you teach your children by example. I learned to love the temple first by seeing my parents attend and serve in the temple. When Jill and I attend, we make it a point to tell the kids we’re leaving to go to the temple.
“10. Have your children see your joy and satisfaction in service to the Church. This can become contagious to them, so they, too, will want to serve in the Church and will love the kingdom”
Again, like temple attendance, children learn best to serve when they see their parents serve. I see this in Jill’s family. Jill’s parents are always serving. Jill has told me of the many, many examples of the times her mom would serve others. And who can’t doubt the example of Jill’s mom when they see Jill. It seems that Jill is always baking a dinner for a family in the ward or a neighbor in need. And I regularly come home from work to see other people’s kids who she is watching while their mom is attending to an emergency. Jill is the most thoughtful, kindest person I know and thanks be to her and her mother!
(Ezra Taft Benson, "To the Fathers in Israel", Ensign, Nov. 1987, 48)
What Mothers Can do to Teach in the Home
President Benson wrote a similar top ten list for mothers with regard to teaching in the home. I’d like to briefly share this list with you and then share with you a few personal stories of mothers teaching in the home.
1. Be at the crossroads.
2. Be a real friend.
3. Read to your children.
4. Pray with your children.
5. Have weekly home evenings.
6. Be together at mealtimes.
7. Read scriptures daily.
8. Do things as a family.
9. Teach your children.
10. Truly love your children.
(President Ezra Taft Benson Address given at a Fireside for Parents, 22 February 1987)
Thursday, November 11, 2010
"Let There be Light"
The Information Age is great ain't it? I never heard of Vera Lynn until Elder Cook told the story about how he was named. So I go to YouTube and search for Vera Lynn and find some really neat, goose-bump-creating videos of her songs.
Here is "The White Cliffs of Dover" playing in the background to Spitfires flying.
Here is a video of her singing "When The Lights Go On Again"
Watching these videos helped me appreciate Elder Cook's talk a bit more. In fact, I got a lump in my throat and tears welled in my eyes listening to "When the Lights Go On Again" ... I think it is fitting to watch these videos on a day we celebrate our brave veterans and remember their sacrifices.
Elder Cook's talk was excellent. It could be summarized with an often-heard quote "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing." I did a little research on this - although the quote is attributed to Edmund Burke, he never said it (see here). But the idea is still relevant.
We as LDS are to actively stand up and defend what is good and wholsome. We are to actively practice our religious freedoms. There are unabashed forces acting in this world for both good and evil. We must engage.
I really thought this quote from Elder Cook was spot on; "Let me be clear that all voices need to be heard in the public square. Neither religious nor secular voices should be silenced. Furthermore, we should not expect that because some of our views emanate from religious principals, they will automatically be accepted or given preferential status. But is is also clear such views and values are entitled to be reviewed on their merits."
I firmly believe that when both good and evil cases are presented, the good will win out. I agree with Elder Cook's sentiment that most people believe in God and support moral values. The rub is that we need to actively participate and defend our principals ... by living them and speaking up for them.
Here is "The White Cliffs of Dover" playing in the background to Spitfires flying.
Here is a video of her singing "When The Lights Go On Again"
Watching these videos helped me appreciate Elder Cook's talk a bit more. In fact, I got a lump in my throat and tears welled in my eyes listening to "When the Lights Go On Again" ... I think it is fitting to watch these videos on a day we celebrate our brave veterans and remember their sacrifices.
Elder Cook's talk was excellent. It could be summarized with an often-heard quote "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing." I did a little research on this - although the quote is attributed to Edmund Burke, he never said it (see here). But the idea is still relevant.
We as LDS are to actively stand up and defend what is good and wholsome. We are to actively practice our religious freedoms. There are unabashed forces acting in this world for both good and evil. We must engage.
I really thought this quote from Elder Cook was spot on; "Let me be clear that all voices need to be heard in the public square. Neither religious nor secular voices should be silenced. Furthermore, we should not expect that because some of our views emanate from religious principals, they will automatically be accepted or given preferential status. But is is also clear such views and values are entitled to be reviewed on their merits."
I firmly believe that when both good and evil cases are presented, the good will win out. I agree with Elder Cook's sentiment that most people believe in God and support moral values. The rub is that we need to actively participate and defend our principals ... by living them and speaking up for them.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
"Things that Matter Most"
Going back to the minimalism theme - as I read President Uchtdorf's talk this morning, various statements and quotes he made drove home the idea that less is indeed more. This is a subject I am very keen and sensitive about. I really think that people are happier when they stop and think about what is important in their lives and then direct their focus on those specific things and ignore the rest.
President Uchtdorf's talk does a fantastic job summarizing what we should all be doing.
Here are a few of the quotes that stood out as I read his talk.
it is good advice to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions.
focus on the things that matter most.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks, in a recent general conference, taught, “We have to forego some good things in order to choose others that are better or best because they develop faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and strengthen our families."
There is a beauty and clarity that comes from simplicity that we sometimes do not appreciate in our thirst for intricate solutions.
Leonardo da Vinci is quoted as saying that “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."
He then teaches us four things that should be at the top of our list - the things that matter most.
We should develop our relationship with: 1) God & Jesus Christ, 2) Our families, 3) Our fellow-men and 4) Ourselves
The wonderful thing about the Church is that it is set up so that we can focus on these 4 things that matter most. If we read our scriptures and pray every day as we've been counseled and commanded time and time again, we will develop our relationship with God and Jesus Christ. If we hold FHE and eat dinner together and play games and spend time with our spouse, children and extended family, we will develop our relationship with our families. If we perform our hometeaching duties and we participate in church activities, we will develop better relationships with our fellow-men. And if we find and develop the talents God has given us, we will develop the relationship with ourself.
I center my goals around these areas and then I try to work on each of these areas a little bit every day. As I focus my energy on these areas, I find joy.
 |
| we can learn about life by studying nature |
President Uchtdorf's talk does a fantastic job summarizing what we should all be doing.
Here are a few of the quotes that stood out as I read his talk.
it is good advice to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions.
focus on the things that matter most.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks, in a recent general conference, taught, “We have to forego some good things in order to choose others that are better or best because they develop faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and strengthen our families."
There is a beauty and clarity that comes from simplicity that we sometimes do not appreciate in our thirst for intricate solutions.
Leonardo da Vinci is quoted as saying that “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."
He then teaches us four things that should be at the top of our list - the things that matter most.
We should develop our relationship with: 1) God & Jesus Christ, 2) Our families, 3) Our fellow-men and 4) Ourselves
The wonderful thing about the Church is that it is set up so that we can focus on these 4 things that matter most. If we read our scriptures and pray every day as we've been counseled and commanded time and time again, we will develop our relationship with God and Jesus Christ. If we hold FHE and eat dinner together and play games and spend time with our spouse, children and extended family, we will develop our relationship with our families. If we perform our hometeaching duties and we participate in church activities, we will develop better relationships with our fellow-men. And if we find and develop the talents God has given us, we will develop the relationship with ourself.
I center my goals around these areas and then I try to work on each of these areas a little bit every day. As I focus my energy on these areas, I find joy.
Friday, September 10, 2010
The Voice of the Spirit
I watched this video on lds.org this week. It is one of the most touching and powerful videos I've ever seen or listened to.
After watching it several times, I tried finding the entire talk on the General Conference page, but I didn't find it there. I expanded my search using Google and eventually found it at BYU's speeches site. The audio of the video was taken from a talk President Faust gave at BYU on September 5, 1993.
You can find the text of that entire talk here: The Voice of the Spirit
Additionally, you can listen to the entire talk (something I highly recommend) by clicking here.
When I read this talk, I had one of those 'wow!-this-is-a-prophet-of-God' moments. This is the part of his talk when my eyes went wide open and my heart skipped a beat:
In your generation you will be barraged by multitudes of voices telling you how to live, how to gratify your passions, how to have it all. You will have up to five hundred television channels at your fingertips. There will be all sorts of software, interactive computer modems, databases, and bulletin boards; there will be desktop publishing, satellite receivers, and communications networks that will suffocate you with information. Local cable news networks will cover only local news. Everyone will be under more scrutiny. There will be fewer places of refuge and serenity. You will be bombarded with evil and wickedness like no other generation. As I contemplate this prospect, I am reminded of T. S. Eliot's words, "Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?" (The Rock [1934], I).
He gave this talk in 1993! True - the World Wide Web had just been born two years previous, but it was broadly unknown. It wasn't until 1996 that the real explosion of the information highway took place. Ever since then, we have indeed been overloaded with "voices." Read that paragraph over and over again. It was as if he wrote that in 2003 and not 1993.
Follow the prophets. Follow the voice of the Spirit.
After watching it several times, I tried finding the entire talk on the General Conference page, but I didn't find it there. I expanded my search using Google and eventually found it at BYU's speeches site. The audio of the video was taken from a talk President Faust gave at BYU on September 5, 1993.
You can find the text of that entire talk here: The Voice of the Spirit
Additionally, you can listen to the entire talk (something I highly recommend) by clicking here.
When I read this talk, I had one of those 'wow!-this-is-a-prophet-of-God' moments. This is the part of his talk when my eyes went wide open and my heart skipped a beat:
In your generation you will be barraged by multitudes of voices telling you how to live, how to gratify your passions, how to have it all. You will have up to five hundred television channels at your fingertips. There will be all sorts of software, interactive computer modems, databases, and bulletin boards; there will be desktop publishing, satellite receivers, and communications networks that will suffocate you with information. Local cable news networks will cover only local news. Everyone will be under more scrutiny. There will be fewer places of refuge and serenity. You will be bombarded with evil and wickedness like no other generation. As I contemplate this prospect, I am reminded of T. S. Eliot's words, "Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?" (The Rock [1934], I).
He gave this talk in 1993! True - the World Wide Web had just been born two years previous, but it was broadly unknown. It wasn't until 1996 that the real explosion of the information highway took place. Ever since then, we have indeed been overloaded with "voices." Read that paragraph over and over again. It was as if he wrote that in 2003 and not 1993.
Follow the prophets. Follow the voice of the Spirit.
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