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Sunday, September 25, 2011
My Parents are Missionaries
My father and mother have served three full-time missions together. Prior to that, Dad served a mission in Germany and numerous stake missions.
My parents served in Yerevan, Armenia. They helped so many people there. Dad helped get heaters working and did all kinds of physical labor service. They both loved and served the people. But their visas never came through, and so they were transferred to Kharkov, Ukraine. There they continued to serve and love the people of that country.
For their next mission, they were called to oversee the building of the Kiev Temple. Unfortunately, that did not happen during their mission, but took another ten years. Once they met a man who told them of a senior couple who'd been called to oversee the building of a temple in Ukraine, but who had failed in their assignment. My mother said, "Oh? That would be us!" Did they fail? Of course not. They weren't in Kiev to help prepare a temple for the people, but to help prepare the people for a temple.
Their last mission was to Samara, Russia.
They have numerous stories. They touched thousands of lives. That's the way with missionary work and it's ripple effect. Dad was in mission presidencies. They suffered extremely cold conditions and had meager amounts of food, and they traded their comfortable big home for small apartments.
I'm proud of my parents and the example that they've set for me and for the legacy they've given to our family. Dad was (and still is) self-employed and he's exhausted all of his savings to serve the Lord. Between each mission, he'd earn enough money to go serve again. Now nearly 82, he still is working. (1-25-13 He turned 83 last November.)
They have been temple workers for many years. Mom is sad that her current health won't allow her to serve in the temple, and hopes to be able to return again. (1-25-13 Lately, they are both serving one day a week, no longer two.)
One of the greatest blessing of my parents life was attending the Kiev Temple Dedication. In the ceremonies prior to the dedication, they were able to visit with people from the four different mission areas where they served. The people were so happy to see them, and my parents were blessed by the love and gratitude they were shown.
God loves us. He loves all of his children. What a blessing it is that as members of His Church; we can serve each other at home and abroad. I'm thankful for missionaries and for missions. I hope that Bob and I will have the opportunity to serve together as well. (We have done so as stake and ward missionaries in the past. 1-25-13 I have been called as a ward missionary again.)
27 September 2017:
Dad, I wrote this first in September 2011. I am so thankful for the example that you and Mom set for me in serving in the Church and loving Heavenly Father and all His children. I need to do better in serving. I’ve enjoyed the time that I serve in the California Redlands Mission office. And I am again a ward missionary. 6th time now I think. I know there is an added boldness that comes with the assignment to teach and share the gospel, and I often see Mom’s and your personality shining through when I share the gospel. I love you so much. I miss Mom. I know you miss her more. I’m sure that she is happy in the service that she is doing there helping to strengthen our families. I love you.
http://tinyurl.com/aqhjwdm
Dad, I wrote this first in September 2011. I am so thankful for the example that you and Mom set for me in serving in the Church and loving Heavenly Father and all His children. I need to do better in serving. I’ve enjoyed the time that I serve in the California Redlands Mission office. And I am again a ward missionary. 6th time now I think. I know there is an added boldness that comes with the assignment to teach and share the gospel, and I often see Mom’s and your personality shining through when I share the gospel. I love you so much. I miss Mom. I know you miss her more. I’m sure that she is happy in the service that she is doing there helping to strengthen our families. I love you.
http://tinyurl.com/aqhjwdm
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Thoughts on Primary Program Songs 2011
Thoughts inspired by Primary Program Songs:
“If I Listen with My Heart”
Jesus loves me just as much as the children he blessed when He was living here on earth.
Jesus loves me just as much as the children that He blessed during His visit to the Nephites.
Jesus blesses me with His love every day! I can read His words in the scriptures and feel a testimony that they are true. This brings me comfort and peace.
I can follow the counsel of my parents and church leaders and, especially, the prophet. When I do this, I know Jesus is pleased.
Jesus speaks to me through the Holy Ghost, and I can feel His love for me every day. I am never alone. Jesus will always love me, and He will always help me.
“I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus.”
What can I do to be like Jesus?
I can learn about Jesus by reading in the New Testament and the Book of Mormon.
Jesus was kind to everyone; even to the people who were mean to Him.
I can be like Jesus by obeying my parents and being nice to my brothers and sisters.
I can be like Jesus be listening when the Spirit tells me to do something kind, and then do it.
What nice things can I do for my family?
What nice things can I do for my neighbors and my friends at school?
“Stand for the Right”
We can learn what Heavenly Father wants us to do by reading the words of the prophets and by listening to what they say.
Many prophets’ words are recorded in the scriptures. That’s a great blessing. If we listen to the Holy Ghost and follow these teachings, we will be happy.
We are even more blessed to have a prophet on the earth today: President Thomas S. Monson. We can listen to the words he has for us at general conference twice a year. We can also listen to the words of the Apostles. We can gain inspiration and direction that will help us currently, in the world today.
We can read their messages in The Friend and other church magazines each month.
President Wilford Woodruff said:
The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the programme. It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place, and so He will any other man who attempts to lead the children of men astray from the oracles of God and from their duty. (Concerning the Manifesto, Doctrine and Covenants, Official Declaration 1)
If I follow the prophet, then I will be on solid ground, and I will stay on the path that leads me back to Heavenly Father and Jesus.
How can I get on the right path?
“The Fourth Article of Faith”
We learn in the Book of Mormon what the Doctrine of Christ means. It is also found in “The Fourth Article of Faith.” (Recite it.)
Nephi asked us if that’s all we need to do. Then he answered, No, we must continue to keep the commandments every day of our lives.
2 Nephi 31: 20
Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.
“I Will Follow God’s Plan for Me”
I lived with Heavenly Father before I came to earth. He wanted me to come to earth to receive a mortal body and to learn to be obedient.
He planned for me to be born to a family with parents who would believe in His Son Jesus Christ.
Heavenly Father wants me to be happy. He knows that I can be happy if I follow his plan for me:
I must believe in Heavenly Father, and in His Son Jesus Christ, and I must seek to have the Holy Ghost as my companion; I need to repent when I do things that are wrong; I need to be baptized and then partake of the sacrament worthily each week.
I need to be a loving family member and a good neighbor; I need to be honest and school and at work.
I need to do my best to keep the commandments.
I need to do my best at school and get a good education.
If I trust in Heavenly Father and seek His help every day through prayer and scripture study and through service, I know that I will be happy while I live my life on earth. And then some day, I will return to live with Heavenly Father.
“The Lord Gave Me a Temple”
The Apostle Paul taught us that our bodies are temples and that we must keep them clean.
Jesus revealed Doctrine and Covenants Section 89 to Joseph Smith. This Word of Wisdom tells us how to care for our bodies so that we can stay healthy.
I will eat healthful foods and get the rest and exercise that I should. I will also drink water.
I will stay away from anything that can be addictive or cause me harm.
President Gordon B. Hinckley told us that we should not tattoo our bodies. Some people already have tattoos before they join the church or understand that they should not. That’s okay. Jesus loves everyone. But because the prophet told us not to tattoo our bodies, we need to follow that commandment, and we will be blessed for our obedience.
We also need to keep our minds and our spirits clean and pure.
How can I keep my mind and spirit clean and pure?
I can choose to listen to good music.
I can turn off the television when there is something on that makes me feel uncomfortable and I know that the Holy Ghost doesn’t want me to watch.
I can read good books.
I can read The Friend and learn about other children who are trying to do what is right just like I am.
I can read or listen to the scriptures on my own, and I can read the scriptures with my family.
I can sing a primary song or a hymn when I want to chase an unwanted thought away. That’s what President Packer does.
I know that pornography is dangerous. If one of my friends wants to show me something inappropriate, I will say no, and I will let my parents know right away.
As I take care of my own temple, my body, I will prepare to enter The Holy Temple. I need be clean both inside and out, so that I can.
“I Love to See the Temple”
The temple is a beautiful building. We are blessed to have the Redlands Temple so close to home. It’s spires point high into the air, reminding us to look upward and seek inspiration from our Heavenly Father.
My parents go to the temple so that they can be better parents. They go there to feel the Spirit and to seek answers to their prayers.
My parents were married in the temple (or are preparing to be sealed in the temple) so that we can be a forever family.
When I go with my family to the temple grounds, I feel peace, and I feel Heavenly Father’s love for me. It is a special and sacred place.
I am preparing now to go to the temple someday.
I’ll be baptized when I am 8 years old, and then if I live the commandments, I can go to the temple when I am 12 years old to receive baptism for other people who are no longer on earth.
I will receive my endowment before I go on my mission. An endowment includes many gifts from Heavenly Father than will endow me with power from on high. This will help me to be a better missionary and, someday, a better husband and father.
I will receive my endowment either before I go on a mission or before I get married. I want to be married in the temple, so I can gain the promises of the temple sealing. When I kneel at the altar with my husband, I know that Heavenly Father and Jesus will be pleased that I followed their plan for me and I was true to my goals.
I know that the temple is a blessing to our family. No matter what else happens in this life, if we are faithful, we can be together forever.
“I Hope They Call Me on a Mission”
Every since Joseph Smith helped to restore the true Church of Jesus Christ, there have been missionaries here on earth who teach the gospel and administer the ordinances to those ready to receive it. Samuel Smith, Joseph’s brother was the first member to be called on a mission.
My family would not be members of the church if it weren’t for the missionaries who taught________________.
President Spencer W. Kimball said that every member should be a missionary. I can be a missionary now by being a good example to my friends and be inviting them to Primary, (to Church, to Cub Scouts, or to Achievement Days.)
I am preparing to be a full-time missionary someday by saying my personal prayers every morning and every night.
I am preparing by helping my family have Family Home Evening. Sometimes we even read from Preach My Gospel.
I am preparing by memorizing The Articles of Faith.
I love the gospel, and I know that the Church is true. I want the rest of Heavenly Father’s children to know this, too. That is why I am preparing to be a missionary today.
I know that to be a good missionary, I need to find out for myself if the Book of Mormon is true and if Joseph Smith was truly God’s prophet. I need to know that Jesus Christ is my Savior and that my Heavenly Father loves me. I am so thankful that we can all know these things by the power of the Holy Ghost.
Moroni 10:3-5
Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.
And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.
I am thankful that Joseph Smith was true to his assignment from Heavenly Father.
“Praise to the Man”
How was Joseph Smith a Hero? Joseph Smith was true to his testimony and safe-guarded the Church so that I can have the restored gospel in my life. He sealed his testimony with his own blood.
Joseph Smith was a prophet. He spoke to Heavenly Father and Jesus in the Sacred Grove.
Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon by the power of God.
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood by John the Baptist.
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood by the Apostles Peter, James, and John.
The Keys of the Priesthood were given to Joseph Smith to govern the affairs of Heavenly Father’s kingdom here on earth during this dispensation.
Joseph Smith was true to the Heavenly Father’s plan for him. He will receive eternal glory with all the other true prophets of God.
No matter how many people mock Joseph Smith and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I am thankful for God’s prophet and his part in restoring the truth in our day.
I know that his testimony is true through the power of the Holy Ghost.
I also will be true to Heavenly Father’s plan for me.
“If I Listen with My Heart”
Jesus loves me just as much as the children he blessed when He was living here on earth.
Jesus loves me just as much as the children that He blessed during His visit to the Nephites.
Jesus blesses me with His love every day! I can read His words in the scriptures and feel a testimony that they are true. This brings me comfort and peace.
I can follow the counsel of my parents and church leaders and, especially, the prophet. When I do this, I know Jesus is pleased.
Jesus speaks to me through the Holy Ghost, and I can feel His love for me every day. I am never alone. Jesus will always love me, and He will always help me.
“I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus.”
What can I do to be like Jesus?
I can learn about Jesus by reading in the New Testament and the Book of Mormon.
Jesus was kind to everyone; even to the people who were mean to Him.
I can be like Jesus by obeying my parents and being nice to my brothers and sisters.
I can be like Jesus be listening when the Spirit tells me to do something kind, and then do it.
What nice things can I do for my family?
What nice things can I do for my neighbors and my friends at school?
“Stand for the Right”
We can learn what Heavenly Father wants us to do by reading the words of the prophets and by listening to what they say.
Many prophets’ words are recorded in the scriptures. That’s a great blessing. If we listen to the Holy Ghost and follow these teachings, we will be happy.
We are even more blessed to have a prophet on the earth today: President Thomas S. Monson. We can listen to the words he has for us at general conference twice a year. We can also listen to the words of the Apostles. We can gain inspiration and direction that will help us currently, in the world today.
We can read their messages in The Friend and other church magazines each month.
President Wilford Woodruff said:
The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the programme. It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place, and so He will any other man who attempts to lead the children of men astray from the oracles of God and from their duty. (Concerning the Manifesto, Doctrine and Covenants, Official Declaration 1)
If I follow the prophet, then I will be on solid ground, and I will stay on the path that leads me back to Heavenly Father and Jesus.
How can I get on the right path?
“The Fourth Article of Faith”
We learn in the Book of Mormon what the Doctrine of Christ means. It is also found in “The Fourth Article of Faith.” (Recite it.)
Nephi asked us if that’s all we need to do. Then he answered, No, we must continue to keep the commandments every day of our lives.
2 Nephi 31: 20
Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.
“I Will Follow God’s Plan for Me”
I lived with Heavenly Father before I came to earth. He wanted me to come to earth to receive a mortal body and to learn to be obedient.
He planned for me to be born to a family with parents who would believe in His Son Jesus Christ.
Heavenly Father wants me to be happy. He knows that I can be happy if I follow his plan for me:
I must believe in Heavenly Father, and in His Son Jesus Christ, and I must seek to have the Holy Ghost as my companion; I need to repent when I do things that are wrong; I need to be baptized and then partake of the sacrament worthily each week.
I need to be a loving family member and a good neighbor; I need to be honest and school and at work.
I need to do my best to keep the commandments.
I need to do my best at school and get a good education.
If I trust in Heavenly Father and seek His help every day through prayer and scripture study and through service, I know that I will be happy while I live my life on earth. And then some day, I will return to live with Heavenly Father.
“The Lord Gave Me a Temple”
The Apostle Paul taught us that our bodies are temples and that we must keep them clean.
Jesus revealed Doctrine and Covenants Section 89 to Joseph Smith. This Word of Wisdom tells us how to care for our bodies so that we can stay healthy.
I will eat healthful foods and get the rest and exercise that I should. I will also drink water.
I will stay away from anything that can be addictive or cause me harm.
President Gordon B. Hinckley told us that we should not tattoo our bodies. Some people already have tattoos before they join the church or understand that they should not. That’s okay. Jesus loves everyone. But because the prophet told us not to tattoo our bodies, we need to follow that commandment, and we will be blessed for our obedience.
We also need to keep our minds and our spirits clean and pure.
How can I keep my mind and spirit clean and pure?
I can choose to listen to good music.
I can turn off the television when there is something on that makes me feel uncomfortable and I know that the Holy Ghost doesn’t want me to watch.
I can read good books.
I can read The Friend and learn about other children who are trying to do what is right just like I am.
I can read or listen to the scriptures on my own, and I can read the scriptures with my family.
I can sing a primary song or a hymn when I want to chase an unwanted thought away. That’s what President Packer does.
I know that pornography is dangerous. If one of my friends wants to show me something inappropriate, I will say no, and I will let my parents know right away.
As I take care of my own temple, my body, I will prepare to enter The Holy Temple. I need be clean both inside and out, so that I can.
“I Love to See the Temple”
The temple is a beautiful building. We are blessed to have the Redlands Temple so close to home. It’s spires point high into the air, reminding us to look upward and seek inspiration from our Heavenly Father.
My parents go to the temple so that they can be better parents. They go there to feel the Spirit and to seek answers to their prayers.
My parents were married in the temple (or are preparing to be sealed in the temple) so that we can be a forever family.
When I go with my family to the temple grounds, I feel peace, and I feel Heavenly Father’s love for me. It is a special and sacred place.
I am preparing now to go to the temple someday.
I’ll be baptized when I am 8 years old, and then if I live the commandments, I can go to the temple when I am 12 years old to receive baptism for other people who are no longer on earth.
I will receive my endowment before I go on my mission. An endowment includes many gifts from Heavenly Father than will endow me with power from on high. This will help me to be a better missionary and, someday, a better husband and father.
I will receive my endowment either before I go on a mission or before I get married. I want to be married in the temple, so I can gain the promises of the temple sealing. When I kneel at the altar with my husband, I know that Heavenly Father and Jesus will be pleased that I followed their plan for me and I was true to my goals.
I know that the temple is a blessing to our family. No matter what else happens in this life, if we are faithful, we can be together forever.
“I Hope They Call Me on a Mission”
Every since Joseph Smith helped to restore the true Church of Jesus Christ, there have been missionaries here on earth who teach the gospel and administer the ordinances to those ready to receive it. Samuel Smith, Joseph’s brother was the first member to be called on a mission.
My family would not be members of the church if it weren’t for the missionaries who taught________________.
President Spencer W. Kimball said that every member should be a missionary. I can be a missionary now by being a good example to my friends and be inviting them to Primary, (to Church, to Cub Scouts, or to Achievement Days.)
I am preparing to be a full-time missionary someday by saying my personal prayers every morning and every night.
I am preparing by helping my family have Family Home Evening. Sometimes we even read from Preach My Gospel.
I am preparing by memorizing The Articles of Faith.
I love the gospel, and I know that the Church is true. I want the rest of Heavenly Father’s children to know this, too. That is why I am preparing to be a missionary today.
I know that to be a good missionary, I need to find out for myself if the Book of Mormon is true and if Joseph Smith was truly God’s prophet. I need to know that Jesus Christ is my Savior and that my Heavenly Father loves me. I am so thankful that we can all know these things by the power of the Holy Ghost.
Moroni 10:3-5
Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.
And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.
I am thankful that Joseph Smith was true to his assignment from Heavenly Father.
“Praise to the Man”
How was Joseph Smith a Hero? Joseph Smith was true to his testimony and safe-guarded the Church so that I can have the restored gospel in my life. He sealed his testimony with his own blood.
Joseph Smith was a prophet. He spoke to Heavenly Father and Jesus in the Sacred Grove.
Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon by the power of God.
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood by John the Baptist.
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood by the Apostles Peter, James, and John.
The Keys of the Priesthood were given to Joseph Smith to govern the affairs of Heavenly Father’s kingdom here on earth during this dispensation.
Joseph Smith was true to the Heavenly Father’s plan for him. He will receive eternal glory with all the other true prophets of God.
No matter how many people mock Joseph Smith and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I am thankful for God’s prophet and his part in restoring the truth in our day.
I know that his testimony is true through the power of the Holy Ghost.
I also will be true to Heavenly Father’s plan for me.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Life is Good
My declaration: I do believe in a Deity. I believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I believe in the Supreme Creator of the universe. I believe in the Father of our spirits. I believe in the Giver of all good gifts, including life itself. "We believe in God the Eternal Father, and in His Son Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost." (Joseph Smith, see Articles of Faith)
I believe in the power of creation. I belief that God has given us life and agency and, along with that, the ability to redefine ourselves and recreate who we are from day to day by the choices we make, the things we think (including the books we read or the blogs we write), and the deeds we do. Hence, when we feel to proclaim, "Life is good," it can very well be because we feel good about our choices and the direction we are headed.
But I affirm that "life" itself is good. The length of life or the quality of life, according to worldly standards of health, doesn't matter. Life is good! I believe that is because God is good, and whatsoever comes from God is good. (See James 1:17-18)
I feel to exclaim that life is and was good for my infant son who just lived 2 1/2 hours. I know that he was grateful to receive a mortal body, that his spirit lives on, and that he will take up his physical body again in the resurrection. This faith I have because I believe in the resurrection of Christ. Indeed, life is good. Our Father who has granted us earthly life, immortality, and the possibility of eternal life is good.
I am glad for the knowledge that I have of a pre-earth life, this earthly life, and life beyond death. Life is a miracle; in all of its stages, it remains a miracle. It is not something that mortal man can copy. But as children of God, we have the seeds of deity right within us, and He has permitted us to have the power of procreation wherein we can help provide His spirit children with physical bodies. Life and the power to perpetuate life is truly a gift.
For all the dear family members that I have said good-bye to for a time, I do believe and I must believe I will see you again! I feel it in my heart, and the Spirit testifies to my spirit that it is so. I feel the warmth of the testimony coursing through my veins. Both you and this testimony are an essential part of who I am. I know that Ed’s life is not snuffed out; nor is Robby’s; nor is my dear sister Kathy’s. Life is good; they are good; and they continue in God who is not only good, but great.
Tears flow freely as a think about my recently departed sister. She indeed had a testimony that life is good. I never once saw her bitter. Her circumstances or the quality of her life did not affect her testimony that life is good. Not once did she want people to feel sorry for her or pity her. She loved life; she loved her family and friends; and she was the best example of creating an atmosphere of happiness and faith no matter what. She even went so far as to say her cancer was kind. Why? Because it gave her time to concentrate on all the things that matter most and to have a couple more years to really enjoy her family, friends, and this beautiful world that we live in. Also, because she knew that cancer was not going to really bring an end to her life, but that life would and does continue for her. She believes in the resurrection as do I. I hope that I can face the challenges of life as well as she did with this motto: “Come what may and love it.” (Joseph B. Worthlin, see Article from October 2008 Conference)
I am so thankful to have the gift of life. I know that God who is the Creator gave me life. I know that I do not have the power to even maintain life on my own, but that He is the one who sustains me from day to day by giving me breath and nourishment through this beautiful earth on which we live. (See Mosiah 2:20-22, word from King Benjamin.)
So whether my individual days are good days or bad days, I do proclaim that life is good. We do experience joys and sorrows, and often there is sorrow mixed in with our joys. But even in the midst of sorrows, I feel my Savior’s love, and I still do proclaim, “Life is good.” I find that the sorrows help me to remember Him and to value life more. And when everything seems to be going along perfectly, I hope that I will do better at stopping to be thankful to Him and to those who have enriched my life and blessed me to be able to enjoy all the wonderful things I enjoy. I acknowledge that I am nothing of myself. But because God has chosen me to be His daughter, and because I have loving earthly parents, loving family, and friends, I have been nurtured in the good things of life and my possibilities for progression are endless. This gift is from my Father who is Eternal and whose gifts are Endless.
I believe in the power of creation. I belief that God has given us life and agency and, along with that, the ability to redefine ourselves and recreate who we are from day to day by the choices we make, the things we think (including the books we read or the blogs we write), and the deeds we do. Hence, when we feel to proclaim, "Life is good," it can very well be because we feel good about our choices and the direction we are headed.
But I affirm that "life" itself is good. The length of life or the quality of life, according to worldly standards of health, doesn't matter. Life is good! I believe that is because God is good, and whatsoever comes from God is good. (See James 1:17-18)
I feel to exclaim that life is and was good for my infant son who just lived 2 1/2 hours. I know that he was grateful to receive a mortal body, that his spirit lives on, and that he will take up his physical body again in the resurrection. This faith I have because I believe in the resurrection of Christ. Indeed, life is good. Our Father who has granted us earthly life, immortality, and the possibility of eternal life is good.
I am glad for the knowledge that I have of a pre-earth life, this earthly life, and life beyond death. Life is a miracle; in all of its stages, it remains a miracle. It is not something that mortal man can copy. But as children of God, we have the seeds of deity right within us, and He has permitted us to have the power of procreation wherein we can help provide His spirit children with physical bodies. Life and the power to perpetuate life is truly a gift.
For all the dear family members that I have said good-bye to for a time, I do believe and I must believe I will see you again! I feel it in my heart, and the Spirit testifies to my spirit that it is so. I feel the warmth of the testimony coursing through my veins. Both you and this testimony are an essential part of who I am. I know that Ed’s life is not snuffed out; nor is Robby’s; nor is my dear sister Kathy’s. Life is good; they are good; and they continue in God who is not only good, but great.
Tears flow freely as a think about my recently departed sister. She indeed had a testimony that life is good. I never once saw her bitter. Her circumstances or the quality of her life did not affect her testimony that life is good. Not once did she want people to feel sorry for her or pity her. She loved life; she loved her family and friends; and she was the best example of creating an atmosphere of happiness and faith no matter what. She even went so far as to say her cancer was kind. Why? Because it gave her time to concentrate on all the things that matter most and to have a couple more years to really enjoy her family, friends, and this beautiful world that we live in. Also, because she knew that cancer was not going to really bring an end to her life, but that life would and does continue for her. She believes in the resurrection as do I. I hope that I can face the challenges of life as well as she did with this motto: “Come what may and love it.” (Joseph B. Worthlin, see Article from October 2008 Conference)
I am so thankful to have the gift of life. I know that God who is the Creator gave me life. I know that I do not have the power to even maintain life on my own, but that He is the one who sustains me from day to day by giving me breath and nourishment through this beautiful earth on which we live. (See Mosiah 2:20-22, word from King Benjamin.)
So whether my individual days are good days or bad days, I do proclaim that life is good. We do experience joys and sorrows, and often there is sorrow mixed in with our joys. But even in the midst of sorrows, I feel my Savior’s love, and I still do proclaim, “Life is good.” I find that the sorrows help me to remember Him and to value life more. And when everything seems to be going along perfectly, I hope that I will do better at stopping to be thankful to Him and to those who have enriched my life and blessed me to be able to enjoy all the wonderful things I enjoy. I acknowledge that I am nothing of myself. But because God has chosen me to be His daughter, and because I have loving earthly parents, loving family, and friends, I have been nurtured in the good things of life and my possibilities for progression are endless. This gift is from my Father who is Eternal and whose gifts are Endless.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Shutterfly Card to thank those who helped with the wedding.
http://share.shutterfly.com/share/received/welcome.sfly?fid=8fff1287ec5f0dc42f762628e38c6d8e&sid=8AatGjNk2atGIl
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
General Conference Notes: Sunday Afternoon 3 April 2011
General Conference: Sunday Afternoon 3 April 2011
181st annual general conference; fifth session.
That we might receive an additional portion of charity and love to serve those around us. (Opening prayer)
Elder Scott
16 July 1953 his anniversary with Jeanene. As he continues to live worthily, he will be able to live with his wife and children forever. His wife and two children are beyond the veil. They are a reminder to live righteously.
Two pillars: marriage and the family. Satan wants to split the family and end temple marriages.
His wife wanted him to go play with the children rather than to fix the washing machine. “Go play with the children.” Next morning, two little arms around his neck, a kiss on the cheek and the words, “Dad, I love you. You are my best friend.” Don’t waste your time in unworthy pursuits. Get on with your life. If you want to have a wonderful life, you need to have her see you as a wonderful perspective husband.
Are you faithful to your spouse mentally as well as physically? Brethren, do you lead out in family activities? You need to tell your wife often that you love her. Express gratitude for what your spouse does for you. Don’t withhold natural expressions of love. It works better if you hold her close while you tell her. Send precious notes to your spouse. She not only kept my notes to her, she protected them with plastic covers. As husband and wife do not argue in your homes. Love unselfishly. As a mother you have been given divine instinct to help you sense you child’s divine needs. Times of happiness, testing and trial. “I will always remember holding him in my arms in the middle of the night.” He didn’t know that he would pass away in a few months. They knew that they would have him again because of temple covenants. (Jeanene came to me in the chapel that my parents attend after Robby died. She said, Oh Heidi, I can’t wait to tell you about the blessings that you are going to receive.) All things are possible to the Lord, and He keeps the promises that are proclaimed by His prophets. (Elder Scott pronounced the blessing that Cathy that she would marry and have children.)
Elder Christofferson
“I would that you be perfect as I or your Heavenly Father is perfect.” God’s purpose is that we can experience ultimate joy, to be with Him eternally and become as He is.
Practice and attitude we need to adopt: willingly accept and seek correction
Repentance is a necessary condition for forgiveness. Fruit—repentance leading to righteousness. It can refine us and prepare us for greater experiences. “He that will not bear chastisement is not worthy of my kingdom.” We shouldn’t resent the very things that help us put on the divine nature.
“I am the gardener here; I know what I want you to do.” “Thank you Mr. Gardener for cutting me down, for preparing me to be what you wanted me to be.” (Hugh B. Brown)
Chastening may come in many forms. Correction can come through others. “Look into people’s eyes when you speak to them.” (Jeanene Scott)
Elder Pratt
Righteous grandparents that taught their children in the home long before Family Home Evening was instituted. (John and Ida Whetten) Ida suggested that they give the money to the Bishop to cover their tithing. A wealthy business man, Mr. Horde, came from the US. John worked with him and dispersed the money to the workers. There was money left over not expected. Mr. Horde gave it to John for his boys. The bag held the exactly 100 pesos in silver, the same that he’d given to the Bishop. The Lord remembers his promises to those who pay their tithing. When we obey commandments, we are blessed.
1. Payment of tithing was not related to cash income. They felt indebted to the Lord for their blessings. We are all indebted to the Lord. Let us not be accused of robbing the Lord. Paying tithing will help us be honest to our fellow man.
2. Payment of tithing cannot be related to how much we have or have not. It should come from the firstlings and first fruits of our income. Tithing is a matter of faith. Show faith by paying tithing. Do it first. Be an example to our children.
3. If we pay our tithing with money, it does not mean that we will be blessed with money. We will not lack for the necessities of life, but He does not promise us wealth. We will have wisdom to live with 90% of our income than with 100%. The Lord’s richest blessings are spiritual: family, friends, and the gospel. Spiritual sensitivity for rearing our children. The payment of tithing is an excellent insurance against divorce. Tithe paying fosters in us a gentle and forgiving heart.
The Lord will open the windows of heaven and pour out His richest blessings as we pay our tithing.
Elder Robbins
What manner of man or woman ought ye to be? To be or not to be is a very good question. Faith inspires one to pray, and prayer inspires ones faith.
To do lists versus to be lists. A to be list cannot be a check off list. Christ-like be s are what we are trying to develop in ourselves and in our children. Consider the more challenging child a blessing that helps you to become more Godlike. Could it be possible that you need this child as much as he needs you? Our children are God’s children. Disappointing behavior should be something that is considered not permanent. Focus primary praise on children’s efforts and attributes. “Be the kind of parents to our children that our Father in Heaven is to us.”
Elder De Hoyos
Be no more strangers and foreigners.
Why does are church have such a long name? It was not chosen by man, but given by the Lord. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It makes reference to the Lord and to the members of the church. The members of the early church also called each other saints. As we live the gospel and follow the prophet, we will become sanctified; we will become saints.
Elder Grow
His 51 year old brother died in his sleep.
We assess the gift of the Atonement through repentance. If we repent, we will confess and forsake our sins. His brother had done so. Our Savior offers redemption to all. Seek relief; repent and forsake your sins; in prayer, ask God to forgive you; go to the Bishop if necessary; he is the Lord’s messenger of mercy.
Elder Holland
President Brigham Young had a dream in Nauvoo. He saw an angel pointing to the west in the SL Valley. Ensign Peak. “The mountain of the Lord’s house…” (Isaiah 2) They made a flag with a walking stick and a yellow bandana. “Zion’s standard is unfurled.” Dual meaning is intentional.
Reflect on the messages that you have heard here and on the unique phenomenon that General Conference is. “We testify that God lives, and He speaks.” Talks are not assigned. Each person prayed and fasted to know what the Lord with have him say.
President Brigham Young saw an angel standing over this place. Elder Holland sees angels standing in it. The brethren who serve in the church, he sees as angels.
Consider the variety of the messages you here. They are speaking to those who know us very well and those who know us not at all, the young and the old, married and single. Declare liberty to the captives and something else. The gospel is to comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable. J In the matter of discipleship, the church is not a fast food outlet. We cannot always have it our way…Salvation can only come His way.
If you continue to hold family night despite the bedlam in a house of little bedlamites, you will be blessed. If you come to conference with the Spirit, you will hear a testimony just for you. In one way or another, God will have his voice heard.
President Monson is the senior apostle and the prophet of the church. His life is not easy. He was called to be an apostle at 36; his children were 12, 9, and 4. His wife and children have given their lives to his service for more than 50 years. He is irrepressibly cheerful through it all. He possesses remarkable faith and unusual stamina.
President Monson
His heart is full at the close of this conference. We’ve felt the Spirit of the Lord in rich abundance. Gratitude to those who’ve participated. Please read and study the Conference Ensign.
We look forward to working with them (newly called) in the cause of the Master. Reach out to those of other faiths, as well as to our own.
The Lord lives again! The lined lies there white and clean, and the tomb is empty.
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