Times of War and Blood Redemption

Those who would throw away our freedoms, do not understand freedom and the price that's been paid. Loss of freedom is not easy to regain; and redemption often requires the shedding of much blood.

Our Founding Fathers were willing to help this Country gain her Independence. Being united was essential to their success. Like Benjamin Franklin said, "We must, indeed, all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately." And with trust in Israel’s God and with trust in the rightness of their cause, they brought about our freedom. But, there had to be bloodshed.

Then, in the Civil War, brother fought against brother. We couldn’t allow the Southern States to remain separate, or our country would not survive. As time went on, Abraham Lincoln knew that it was most certainly time for slavery to be completely abolished. For this country to survive, we all must be brothers and sisters, not slaves and slave owners; not industrialists and farmers, not workers and non-workers. The cost in blood was great; but the country was again redeemed.

Then the World Wars came. And we continued to see that freedom for all versus power of the few is really an issue of good versus evil. The Great War, or the War to End All Wars, failed. There was so much hate still alive, so much greed, and so much desire to prove superiority, that the Second World War was even bigger. The cost in human suffering and bloodshed was enormous. But our own Country was strengthened as we banded together to preserve our freedom and protect the freedom of others.

Then the Cold War ran hot. And with the ever present threat of devastation, we witnessed another kind of warfare, intellect posed against intellect in a race to see who was bigger and badder.

And all the other wars. Petroleum. Greed. Real Estate. Greed. Political machines. Greed. Power. Dishonesty. And those who are willing to fight and die for freedom are called blood-thirsty. Why? They are the ones that love their brothers and sisters the world around. They are the ones who understand our Country’s history and her divine destiny and love it. The blood-thirsty ones are the ones who are seeking to make the Country weak by enslaving us economically and morally. Lovers of freedom love the truth; while lovers of power love the lies that weaken the masses and feed their greed.

Where is the strength that we need? It can only be found in turning to our Country’s God, the Lord Jesus Christ. When we follow Him, He will lead us! He will lead us through every crises and every battle. He will sustain us in our weaknesses, and He will make us become strong in Him. But then must be a return to morality and honesty. When we are whoring in our personal lives, we are warring against Him and against each other in our public lives and in our Country. And we must be united in righteousness and in following the commandments. We will never be able to see eye-to-eye without every person being committed to personal integrity. And that wholeness can only be found in Christ.

Blood redemption. Jesus Christ is our Redeemer, and He has paid the price for redemption for every human soul: those who have passed on, those who live now, and those yet to be born. Yes, His sacrifice was in response to a war, the war waged in heaven. Lucifer was fighting for our souls then; and he continues to fight for our souls now. But Jesus has won the victory through His atoning sacrifice for us. We all have the gift of redemption if we so desire it. Through repentance, we can rely on His sacrifice instead of paying the debt ourselves. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you” (John 15:13-14). So to win this war, Jesus laid down His life, hoping that some of us would choose to be His friends. He also commissioned “That ye love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12).

So in these winding up scenes, let us make certain that we are doing what we can to bring about the Lord’s purposes. The battle really is to those who are swift to be righteous. We can help to build up Zion, and we can work to tear down evil and hate through a righteous outpouring of love. “Brethren [and sisters], shall we not go on in so great a cause? Go forward and not backward. Courage, brethren [and sisters]; and on, on to the victory! Let your hearts rejoice, and be exceedingly glad. Let the earth break forth into singing. Let the dead speak forth anthems of eternal praise to the King Immanuel, who hath ordained, before the world was, that which would enable us to redeem them out of their prison; for the prisoners shall go free” (Doctrine and Covenants 128:22). Winning the battle ultimately depends upon us being washed clean through Jesus Christ, whose blood was spilt for all humanity. Winning the battle depends upon us living the gospel and keeping our covenants, and hastening the work by spreading the gospel among the living and the dead. We are in the winding up scenes. Let’s be on the Lord’s side. His blood is sufficient for our salvation individually, and His help is needed for the salvation of this Country.

Servants in the Lord's Church

In the Lord's Church, callings and positions of authority are not sought after. But individuals are blessed with different talents and abilities, and they are trained and seasoned through years of education and service. Even then the tutoring and reliance on the Lord are great when one is set apart to fulfill assignments from the Lord. There is no self-positioning, nor campaigning; but individuals are called by revelation from God. Humble servants feel the gravity of their position and seek to magnify their service by seeking direction from the Lord and doing only those things which will please Him.

I am thankful to all those who have served the Lord and His congregations, including me, with such diligence and love. I know that they are my brothers and sisters, who feel inadequate at times, but who also trust in the Lord who is behind their callings and behind them. They receive no monetary gain, but the Lord blesses and refines them into His beloved people.

There is no greater calling and assignment that we will receive in this life than to be good husbands and wives and good parents. How we love and serve each other is of utmost importance to the Lord. “No other success can compensate for failure in the home” (David O. McKay). By the same token, no monetary success alone can measure up to the growth and satisfaction that we receive when we are in the service of the Lord; and we can be in His service in His Church and in all our daily endeavors as we submit ourselves to Him and seek to do His will. “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17).

So, although church callings and appointments are not sought after, those who are called to the Lord's work, submit themselves to the will of the Lord, and they do so willingly and cheerfully. We should not only sustain them when we raise our rights arms to the square in Sacrament meeting; but, we should sustain them with our prayers, our conversations with one another, and with eagerness to pitch in and help further the kingdom of God by being united in our service to Him. We should also show our support and gratitude by expresses thankfulness to the Lord and to His servants for the jobs that they are doing.

This Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, don’t forget to thank the Lord for His goodness in providing you with earthly parents and servants in His church who are there to aid you in your progress to return to Him. They love you and want you to succeed, and they are a witness of the extension of the Lord’s love to us in providing us His Good News, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, along with the Restoration of His Church, with the keys, the Priesthood, the Sacrament, the sealing powers, and those who have been given the authority to preach the gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof (see Article of Faith 1:5).

See also Talk by Boyd K. Packer

I'm Thankful for Mom

I am thankful that Mom converted to the Church at 16-years-old. I am thankful that she already had studied the Bible and recognized the truth. I am thankful that she left old family traditions that were detrimental in that past and carried good family traditions with us into the future.

I am thankful that Mom answered the many questions that I had as a followed her around the house. I am thankful that Mom taught me how to work in the house and in the yard. I am thankful that she taught me the importance of play. I am thankful that she always offered ways to earn some extra money when we wanted it for something good.

I am thankful that Mom was careful when necessary and daring when adventures were necessary. I am thankful that she jumped off the cliff into the Green River, so that I had to do so, to prove that I wouldn’t be outdone by Mom in front of my peers. I am thankful that she dove off of high dive, so I would, too. I am thankful that she made me speak for myself on the phone and at other times.

I am thankful that Mom took me to Church. I am thankful that Mom encouraged me to learn, but never pushed me too hard. I am thankful that Mom believed in Mental Health Days and allowed me to spend time at home with her when I didn’t really feel like being at school. (No, this didn’t happen too often; but back then, the school districts did not claim ownership of the child.)

I am thankful that Mom sought out ways to give me opportunities that she never had herself, and she made them happen. I am thankful that Mom let me make my own choices and choose my own friends. I am thankful that Mom taught me to see the value in all people.

I am thankful that Mom has always loved me. I love you, Mom.

No Trust for Current Media or Government

I do not trust the leaders of the United States; neither do I trust the media. We are being bamboozled with false information and led to accept lies. In today's world, we cannot trust what we hear or even what we see. Only God, who is a Revealer of truth, can be trusted. Armed with the Spirit of truth, we can trust our Heavenly Father to lead us aright; and we can trust His prophet.

I do not trust the leaders of the United States; nor do I trust the media. The propaganda of the current United States is thicker and blacker and more dangerous and deceptive than at any previous time in the USSR or Nazi Germany.

When truth comes to light, we will know what has happened and what is currently happening in our country and in the world. But for now, I will plant my feet solidly in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and wait for Him whose right it is to reign. At that time, we will be able to feel secure in knowing that our best interests are being met. Jesus is our King, our Savior and our Redeemer, and we need Him now. The only way to secure heaven’s blessings is to serve Him.

God bless the families and individuals in this country and in the world who are seeking to live righteous and meaningful lives. As we return and turn unto Him, we will find that He will turn and return unto us. But we need to know that His ways are not our ways, and His law is love and light everlasting. We cannot change His laws, nor can we seek heavens approval in disobedience and rebellion. As a people and as a country, we need to look to God and live. Truly the unrighteousness of our government is causing the people to error, and error big time. We need not try to give counsel to our God, but we need to accept counsel at His hand at all times. Also, we need to remember that we have been blessed with a living prophet. God gives us His prophets to call His children to repentance, and not the other way around.

If anyone thinks that we can prosper as a people without God at our head, they are either extreme hypocrites or extremely deceived. Either way, perpetuating this lie has successfully caused much of America’s downfall and current weakness. At no time, did the Founding Fathers say that we should live without God in the world, only that there should not be a state-imposed religion. And currently, it appears that we do have a state-imposed religion—call it what you will—atheism, secularism, morbid sophistication, complacency, or self-worship. Calling upon the people to abandon God to follow state-imposed mandates is the worst kind of religion, especially when people follow blindly offering up their freedoms as a sacrifice to the self-appointed gods.

I do not know what will happen in the near future. I do know that those who follow the teachings of Jesus will feel heaven’s blessings in their lives, and those who scoff and slander, will be made to mourn. Life is much too precious to discount the purpose of life—to live by obedience so that we can experience joy. When life is stripped too early from some, when life is robbed before breath is taken, when life is bartered as a way to promote power, then there has to be some recompense. Only in turning to the Lord and His atonement, can any of us obtain salvation. But we are told that those who mock and scorn, and treat human life in such undignified ways, are crucifying the Lord anew. And they will have a price to pay.

While I do not trust the leaders of the United States, and while I do not trust the media, I do trust my Heavenly Father, and I trust Israel’s God, the Lord Jesus Christ. I do trust that He loves us even now; and His hand is stretched out still. He has given us the truth restored in these latter days. We have a prophet on the earth. If we follow what He says, we will not be led astray. God bless our prophet; God bless the families and individuals of this earth to seek truth with pure and honest hearts; and, ultimately, may God again bless the United States of America.

Where does our country go from here?

Photo Messages from April Conference 2013

6-7 April Conference 2013

Some of these pictures were posted to announce conference and in preparation for conference. The other pictures were actually taken during conference (on my computer) while watching. 

Please enjoy.

My Heavenly Father Loves Me

Whenever I hear the song of a bird

Or look at the blue, blue sky,

Whenever I feel the rain on my face

Or the wind as it rushes by,

Whenever I touch a velvet rose

Or walk by our lilac tree,

I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world

Heav'nly Father created for me.

He gave me my eyes that I might see

The color of butterfly wings.

He gave me my ears that I might hear

The magical sound of things.

He gave me my life, my mind, my heart:

I thank him rev'rently

For all his creations, of which I'm a part.

Yes, I know Heav'nly Father loves me.

Words and music: Clara W. McMaster, 1904-1997.

I am so thankful that we are privileged to hear from living prophets, apostles, and leaders in our church. Conferences are grand and glorious occasions. Please take the time to attend. 

General Sessions are Saturday and Sunday from 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. Pacific Daylight Savings Time. The Priesthood Session is Saturday evening from 5-7 p.m. Pacific Daylight Savings Time. Please make the proper adjustment for your time zone.

1. Come, listen to a prophet's voice,

And hear the word of God,

And in the way of truth rejoice,

And sing for joy aloud.

We've found the way the prophets went

Who lived in days of yore.

Another prophet now is sent

This knowledge to restore.

2. The gloom of sullen darkness spread

Thru earth's extended space

Is banished by our living Head,

And God has shown his face.

Thru erring schemes in days now past

The world has gone astray;

Yet Saints of God have found at last

The straight and narrow way.

3. 'Tis not in man they put their trust

Nor on his arm rely.

Full well assured, all are accursed

Who Jesus Christ deny.

The Savior to his people saith,

"Let all my words obey,

And signs shall follow living faith,

Down to the latest day."

4. Then heed the words of truth and light

That flow from fountains pure.

Yea, keep His law with all thy might

Till thine election's sure,

Till thou shalt hear the holy voice

Assure eternal reign,

While joy and cheer attend thy choice,

As one who shall obtain.

Text: Joseph S. Murdock, 1822-1899. Verse four, Bruce R. McConkie, 1915-1985.

Music: Joseph J. Daynes, 1851-1920

And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

Revelation 22:17

I believe in Christ, like I believe in the sun; not because I can see it, but by it, I can see everything else. (C.S. Lewis)

Two Days Until Conference Weekend!

Do you have family traditions for conference weekends?

1. Of all the Sundays of the year,

the ones I love the best

are conf’rence Sundays twice a year,

so diff’rent from the rest.

I gather with my family

and feel the Spirit near

as I prepare to understand

the messages I hear.

2. The scriptures are a history

of prophets gone before.

Their timeless words were written then

to teach forever more.

But what an opportunity

I have on conf’rence day

to hear a living prophet who

is showing me the way!

3. I hear the special witnesses

of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

They testify of gospel truth

and teach God’s holy word.

So now when conf’rence time is past,

the thing for me to do

is follow well what I’ve been told

and prove that it is true.

[Chorus:] At conf’rence time,

at conf’rence time,

the Brethren tell me what to do,

So I can live in happiness

at conf’rence time

and all year through.

Copyright © 1997 by Steven Perry and Brad Wilcox. All rights reserved. This song may be copied for incidental, noncommercial home or church use. This notice must be included on each copy made.

Holy temples on Mount Zion

In a lofty splendor shine,

Avenues to exaltation,

Symbols of a love divine.

And their kindly portals beckon

To serenity and prayer,

Valiant children of the promise,

Pledged to sacred service there.

Merciful and gracious Father,

Purify our hearts, we pray;

Bless our mission of redemption

In thy hallowed house each day,

Till at length our faithful kindred,

Sealed with us eternally

In celestial bonds of union,

Sing hosannas unto thee.

Sing aloud, ye heav'nly chorus,

Anthems of eternal praise

To the glorious King Immanuel!

Sing with Saints of latter days!

Let the mountains shout for gladness,

And the valleys joyful be,

While the stars acclaim in rapture,

For the prisoners shall go free.

Text: Archibald F. Bennett, 1896-1965.

Music: Alexander Schreiner, 1901-1987.

I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

I know who I am.

I know God's plan.

I'll follow him in faith.

I believe in the Savior, Jesus Christ.

I'll honor his name.

I'll do what is right;

I'll follow his light.

His truth I will proclaim.

Words and music: Janice Kapp Perry

Conference is this weekend. It will be broadcast from the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The General Sessions on both Saturday and Sunday will be showing at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Mountain Daylight Savings Time. The Priesthood Session will be Saturday evening at 6 p.m. Mountain Daylight Savings Time. Please make adjustments for your time zone, and decide whether you will view conference at an LDS chapel, by cable or satellite, or on the Web, at BYUTV or lds.org. Remember that you will be able to review the broadcasts at lds.org as well. 

Where will you be watching conference?

I believe that it is wonderful that we can all meet together as Latter-day Saints around the world two times a year. There is strength and power as we all unite in song and prayer and saying "amen" to those things that we hear.

Come, Come, Ye Saints

1. Come, come, ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear;

But with joy wend your way.

Though hard to you this journey may appear,

Grace shall be as your day.

'Tis better far for us to strive

Our useless cares from us to drive;

Do this, and joy your hearts will swell--

All is well! All is well!

2. Why should we mourn or think our lot is hard?

'Tis not so; all is right.

Why should we think to earn a great reward

If we now shun the fight?

Gird up your loins; fresh courage take.

Our God will never us forsake;

And soon we'll have this tale to tell--

All is well! All is well!

3. We'll find the place which God for us prepared,

Far away in the West,

Where none shall come to hurt or make afraid;

There the Saints will be blessed.

We'll make the air with music ring,

Shout praises to our God and King;

Above the rest these words we'll tell--

All is well! All is well!

4. And should we die before our journey's through,

Happy day! All is well!

We then are free from toil and sorrow, too;

With the just we shall dwell!

But if our lives are spared again

To see the Saints their rest obtain,

Oh, how we'll make this chorus swell--

All is well! All is well!

Text: William Clayton, 1814-1879

Music: English folk song

President Uchtdorf is conducting this first session. President Monson gave beautiful opening remarks.

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Part of the Blueprint of Life: Faith, Repentance, Baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost; and enduring to the end. (Bishop Davies)

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Whate’er thou art, act well thy part.

"She understood who she was and whose she was."

(Sister Dalton, speaking of her mother)

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The Son of Man forgives sins; the Savior forgives sins on earth, and not just in the final judgment.

Elder Craig A. Cardon

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As the literal spirit children of our loving Heavenly Father, we have unlimited divine potential. 

Do the things that the Savior would do if He were living among us today. 

M. Russell Ballard

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Simple acts of obedience bring us closer to the Savior.

President Henry B. Eyring

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" I would not barter age to youth; I have to much to lose." (Correction from picture, which says "I'd".)

Unfinished Composition

Part I 1992—Written in England

I had a thought the other night;

A thought profound and deep.

It came when I was too worn down,

Too tired to go to sleep.

I’d had a very busy day

And pondered on my fate.

The thought was this:

When I was young, I wasn’t sixty-eight!

I could walk without a limp;

I had no shoulder pain.

I could read a line through twice

And quote it back again.

I could work for endless hours

And hardly stop to breathe.

And things that now I cannot do

I mastered then with ease.

If I could now turn back the years,

If that were mine to choose,

I would not barter age for youth,

I have too much to lose.

I am quite content to move ahead;

To yield my youth, however grand.

The thing I’d lose if I went back

Is what I understand.

Now a few months ago, ten years later, I added Part II of this “Unfinished Composition.”

Part II 2002

Ten years have flown to who knows where

And with them much of pain.

A metal hip erased my limp;

I walk quite straight again.

Another plate holds neck bones fast—

A wonderful creation!

It backed my polio away;

I’ve joined the stiff-necked generation.

The signs of aging can be seen,

Those things will not get better.

The only thing that grows in strength

With me is my forgetter.

You ask, Do I remember you?

Of course, you’re much the same.

Now don’t go getting all upset—

I don’t recall your name.

I would agree I’ve learned some things

I did not want to know,

But age has brought those precious truths

That make the Spirit grow.

Of all the blessings that have come,

The best thing in my life

Is the comfort and encouragement

I get from my dear wife.

Our children all have married well,

With families of their own.

With children and grandchildren,

How soon they all have grown.

I have not changed my mind one bit

About regaining youth.

We’re meant to age, for with it

Comes a knowledge of the truth.

You ask, What will the future bring?

Just what will be my fate?

We’ll go along and not complain.

Ask when I’m eighty-eight!

Part III—To be continued

President Boyd K. Packer

(See http://www.lds.org/broadcast/ces020203/transcript/0,15946,395,00.html)

(I do not yet have the continuation for his reflections at 88. I cannot type that fast. I found the poem he recited at the link above.)

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1. Jesus, the very thought of thee

With sweetness fills my breast;

But sweeter far thy face to see

And in thy presence rest.

2. Nor voice can sing, nor heart can frame,

Nor can the mem'ry find

A sweeter sound than thy blest name,

O Savior of mankind!

3. O hope of ev'ry contrite heart,

O joy of all the meek,

To those who fall, how kind thou art!

How good to those who seek!

4. Jesus, our only joy be thou,

As thou our prize wilt be;

Jesus, be thou our glory now,

And thru eternity.

Be obedient to prophetic teachings of Jesus Christ. Apply sound gospel principles. Simple consistent good habits lead to full and bountiful blessings. 

Satan’s fate is decided; he knows he has lost. But he wants to take as many as he can. Stay on the Lord’s side, and you will win every time. 

Elder Richard G. Scott

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Peace comes from knowing that the Savior knows who we are...The Savior is the source of true peace. Righteous living will be rewarded with peace. 

Elder Quintin L. Cook

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Stick to the basics. 

If you don’t plant, you don’t harvest. 

You milk the cow when she needs to be milked, not when you want to. 

Elder Stanley G. Ellis

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Where do your priorities lie? The Lord wants to bless us.

“As a natural result of their faith, the Lord is lifting them in meaningful ways. “

Elder John B. Dickson

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Intimate relations are proper only between a man and a woman in a relationship prescribed in God’s Plan…

We are defined by our nature as children of God. 

Elder David A. Bednar

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We all need to catch the wave of the missionary spirit.

If you catch the wave with energy and enthusiasm, others will also. 

Elder Russell M. Nelson

Did you have a favorite message? What words of wisdom did you find inspiring?

When a task seems too hard; when we just don’t know where to begin, we should just start; we should just get our feet wet. God will help us from there. 

Lloyd Newell

Music and the Spoken Word

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Even though we may feel lost in the midst of our current circumstances, God offers us hope in His Light. 

Spiritual light rarely comes to those who sit in the darkness and wait for someone to switch on the light.

1. Start where you are.

2. Turn your heart to the Lord.

3. Walk in the light.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

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We are few in number, but at the same time, you and I are witnesses of Daniel’s prophetic verse: the stone without hands is filling the whole earth. . .We are witnessing the miracles of the Lord as His gospel is spreading across the world. 

You, too, are an important part of this unfolding miracle. All of us have a contribution to make for this miracle

Elder Neal L. Anderson

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Children come to this earth ready to listen. 

To speak to a child’s heart, we must know a child’s needs. 

Choose a time each day to disconnect with technology, and reconnect with each other. 

Sister Rosemary M. Wixom

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In the happiest marriages, both the husband and wife consider their marriage to be a pearl beyond price. 

Successful eternal marriages are built upon Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Faith is the foundation of every virtue that strengthens marriage. Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the foundation of eternal, happy marriages. 

Elder L. Whitney Clayton

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In the universe, too, where God is in command, there is law. 

Obedience to law is liberty.

Elder L. Tom Perry

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Obedience is an unfailing guide. 

A knowledge of truth comes to us as we are obedient to the commandments of God. 

President Thomas S. Monson

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No greater example of obedience exists than that of our Savior.

Ever was He humble; ever was He sincere; ever was he obedient. 

He instructs you and me, “Follow Thou Me.” 

President Thomas S. Monson

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“If thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.” “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.” 

The father exerted his strength first; and then acknowledges his limitation. 

Do not start your quest for faith by declaring what you don’t have. Be true to the faith that you do have.

In this church, what we know will always trump what we do not know.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

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"If you love me, keep my commandments."Leave the tradition of men behind. 

We should not be of the world, or bound by the traditions of men. They love the praise of men more than the praise of God. Jesus’ teachings were not meant to be theoretical; always, they are to be acted upon. Following Christ is not an occasional or casual practice.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks

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God is ever near, and He is interested in us; and He answers our prayers.

Elder Christoffel Golden Jr.

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From my wife, 

“In order to contend you need two people, and I will never be one of them.”

Elder Enrique R. Falabella

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The feeling of being accepted by someone we love is a basic human need.

Those who cannot find acceptance from desirable sources, may seek it elsewhere. This puts them on a dangerous path. 

Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ know us. They accept us for what we are and for what we are striving to become. 

Elder Erich W. Kopischke

"Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." 

We need not fear the future, because God is with us. The Lord 

will stand by His Church and by His people until His Coming. 

Elder Bruce D. Porter

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May we go about doing good in the pattern of the Master. 

As followers of Jesus Christ, we are a Community of Saints. We may participate in the Christ-like role of redemption. 

Elder D. Todd Christofferson

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If we will put our trust in the Lord, He will help us through our difficulties whatever they may be.

President Thomas S. Monson

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Isn't it amazing to know that the Lord loves all of us, and He wants all of us. He wants us to be happy; He wants us to be successful; He wants us to return home to Him. He prepared the way. He is the Way. Yes, the Lord wants you!

(Web photo source: Facebook page: I Sustain Thomas S. Monson)

Sunday Afternoon General Conference, 4-7-13

4-7-13 Sunday Afternoon General Conference 

Unrevised notes:

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Jesus came upon a group arguing vehemently with His disciples. His disciples were unable to heal a boy. “If thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.” “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.” His conviction was limited. But he had an emphatic desire for his only child. Let this desire work in you until you believe. Our whole family is pleading. We don’t know where else to turn; can you help us? “If thou canst believe.” Straightway, the father cries out, “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.” Jesus heals this boy; almost, literally, raising him from the dead.

Obsre

1. The father exerts his strength first; and then acknowledges his limitation. Hold the ground that you already have; hold fast unto what you already know, and

The size of your faith is not a n issue. It is a

2. Do not start your quest for faith by declaring what you don’t have. Be true to the faith that you do have.

If you and your family want to be healed, don’t let those questions stand in the way of the working of that miracle.

In this church, what we know will always trump what we do not know.

Be kind concerning human frailty.

When doubt or difficulties come, do not be afraid to ask for help.

If we come to the Father, we are to inherit all things. This is only possible if we follow the Savior.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks

Come Follow Me.

How do we qualify as disciples of Jesus Christ?

If you love me, keep my commandments. Leave the tradition of men behind.

We should not be of the world, or bound by the traditions of men. They love the praise of men more than the praise of God. Jesus’ teachings were not meant to be theoretical; always, they are to be acted upon. Following Christ is not an occasional or casual practice. He instituted the Sacrament. We covenant that we will always remember Him and keep His commandments.

Those who put their hand to the plough should not look back. Men and women leave mother and father and marry and cleave to one another.

If we come to the Father, we are to inherit all things. This is only possible if we follow the Savior.

Elder Christoffel Golden Jr.

God is ever near, and He is interested in us; and He answers our prayers.

The Father and the Son our distinct separate Being; but, they are One in purpose.

Elder Enrique R. Falabella

Great sacrifice to be married in the temple.

In the celestial glory there are there heavens or degrees.

From my wife, “In order to contend you need two people, and I will never be one of them.”

A child who sings is a happy child.

I need you to help me.

Send each other love letters; even texts.

I love the Book of Mormon and my Savior Jesus Christ. Read the book with a spirit of prayer and meditation.

It is not enough to know the scriptures; we have to live them.

Elder Erich W. Kopischke

The feeling of being accepted by someone we love is a basic human need.

Those who cannot find acceptance from desirable sources, may seek it elsewhere.

This puts them on a dangerous path.

Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ know us. They accept us for what we are and for what we are striving to become.

Hearts are honest and broken. Sincere self-reflection. Screen yourself.

Sacrifice means living day to day in righteousness. Renew and confirm sacred promises to the Lord in partaking the Sacrament. He promises us that we will always have His Spirit to be with us. Having the companionship of the Holy Ghost is the Ultimate indicator of being accepted by God

Seek the Lord’s acceptance and enjoy His blessings.

Elder Bruce D. Porter

Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. We need not fear the future, because God is with us. The Lord will stand by His Church and by his people until His Coming.

When our only desire is to please Him, we will be blessed with deep inner peace.

The appearance of the Father and the Son ushered in the restoration of the Church and another beautiful morning.

Angels met the women at the tomb, “He is not here, but is risen.”

Oh What a Beautiful Morning

Elder D. Todd Christofferson

In colonial times, labor was in great demand in America. Indentured servants. Redemptioners—had to purchase their freedom. Redeem means to pay off a debt, or pay a ransom.



The great redemption—to deliver from sin and its penalties.

Jesus went about doing good; healing the sick and infirm.

May we go about doing good in the pattern of the Master. Much of our redemptive work on earth is to help others grow and reach their aspirations.

Forget not, never forget, that you have promised me to use this silver to become an honest man.

As followers of Jesus Christ, we are a community of Saints. We may participate in the Christ-like role of redemption.

President Thomas S. Monson

Study the messages further.

We love our wonderful Tabernacle Choir.

Be good citizens in the nations which you live, and be good neighbors.

May we ever follow the Master.

Many opportunities and reasons for rejoicing.

If we will put our trust in the Lord, He will help us through our difficulties whatever they may be.

"I invoke the blessings of heaven upon each of you. May your homes be filled with peace, harmony, courtesy and love. May they be filled with the Spirit of the Lord. May you nurture and nourish your testimonies of the gospel, that they will be a protection to you against the buffetings of Satan." Thomas S. Monson #ldsconf

"Except in the case of his only perfect Begotten Son, imperfect people are all God has ever had to work with, that must be terribly frustrating to Him but he deals with it" - Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

"Honestly acknowledge your concerns but first fan the flames of your faith, because all things are possible to them that believe." (Holland)

One of my favorite talks I heard this morning was by Elder Neil L. Anderson speaking of missionary work, he said: "If you're not a full-time missionary with a missionary badge pinned on your coat, now is the time to paint one on your heart." (Inez Zuniga)



If we will put our trust in the Lord, He will help us through our difficulties whatever they may be.

President Thomas S. Monson

Sunday Morning General Conference, 4-7-13

3-7-13 Sunday Morning General Conference

Unrevised notes:

From Music and the Spoken Word:

When a task seems too hard; when we just don’t know what to do, we should just start; we should just get our feet wet. God will help us from there.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Even though we may feel lost in the midst of our current circumstance, God offers us hope in His Light.

Story of Jane, who was abused. In order to protect herself, she learned to stop feeling. There was no light in her world, so she accepted the darkness. At 18, she discovered the church. She accepted the invitation to be baptized. For the first time, Light entered her life. She attended school far away from her abuser. After her abuser died, profound sadness and anger let darkness enter back into her life. She sought conselling and medical help. She learned to accept that darkness exists, but not to dwell there. She learned that light also exists, and that is where she chose to dwell. She held fast to the hope that with God’s help, she could be healed. She left the past behind and stepped into her glorious bright future. Now she helps her students know that they have worth, that they are important. She inspires everyone around her. Healing comes when we move away from the darkness and walk towards the light. God’s light is real; it is available to all.

Spiritual light rarely comes to those who merrily sit in the darkness and wait for someone to switch on the light.

1. Start where you are.

2. Turn your heart to the Lord.

3. Walk in the light.

With Christ, darkness cannot succeed. Darkness cannot stand before the brilliant light of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Elder Neal L. Anderson

Mortal life of Jesus filled with miracles. The greatest miracle of all: His glorious resurrection.

Go ye therefore and teach all nations….Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.

This Jesus, God has raised up, and we all are witnesses. Signs of miracles and faith were following the believers.

The voice of warning shall be to all people, all the world, the uttermost parts of the world. The commission was to the Lord’s disciples at the time of His resurrection, to His disciples at the time of the restoration, and to His disciples today.

We are few in number, but at the same time, you and I are witnesses of Daniel’s prophetic verse: the stone without hands is filling the whole earth. . .

We are witnessing the miracles of the Lord as His gospel is spreading across the world. You, too, are an important part of this unfolding miracle. All of us have a contribution to make for this miracle.

We must pray to be able to do this work. The Lord will bless us with our very own miracles.

“Come, and see.” Not only where I live, but how I live. Invite others to come and see, and you will feel the approval with the Lord; and with that approval, the ability and faith to invite others.

“This is not missionary work; this is missionary fun.”

We needed to decide whether to choose the traditions of our fathers, or to follow Jesus Christ.

Pray to your Heavenly Father; this is His sacred work; He will guide you. Voice of warning to all people through His disciples, and none shall stay them.

Sister Rosemary M. Wixom

Comfort from a second grade teacher. She taught me to love being a child. Okay to try, stretch, dream. Okay to be a child. Everyone has the power to increase a child’s confidence in Himself and his faith in the Lord.

The voice from heaven was one of perfect mildness. We can learn from that.

Children come to this earth ready to listen.

To speak to a child’s heart, we must know a child’s needs.

Choose a time each day to disconnect with technology, and reconnect with each other.

These things are important: temple marriage, missions, college.

We can help our children with the words we speak and the words we write.

Elder L. Whitney Clayton

Watch and learn. Principles I have learned from watching and learning from good marriages.

In the happiest marriages, both the husband and wife consider their marriage to be a pearl beyond price.

Successful eternal marriages are built upon Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Faith is the foundation of every virtue that strengthens marriage. Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the foundation of eternal, happy marriages.

Humility is the essence of repentance.

Mutual quest is to be obedient and good.

Respect. Equal partners make decisions together.

Dinner hour becomes the center of their day. Read to children every night; retire to bed together.

Transparency. No secrets on relative matters.

Love.

Elder L. Tom Perry

Gift of first president to service men.

Secularism begins to be the norm.

Obedience to law is liberty. In the universe, too, where God is in command, there is law. Observe God’s law. You can add to these priceless freedoms, freedom from sin.; Obedience to law is liberty.

Satan wanted to liberate men with the destruction of agency. Satan wants to prove that we are not worthy of God’s gift of agency. Never underestimate Satan’s determination to succeed.

Each decision that we make is a test to our liberty. Free to choose liberty and life or captivity and death. Satan seeks all men to be miserable like unto himself.

Four of the ten commandments are still taken seriously. But as a larger society, we routinely disdain the other six commandments.

There is a law irrevocably decreed..blessings are predicated on obedience to law.

President Thomas S. Monson

D&C 1:39

The spirit of truth is of God. No man receiveth a fullness unless he keeps God’s commandments. He that keepeth His commandments, receiveth truth and light, until he knows all things.

Obedience is an unfailing guide. A knowledge of truth comes to us as we are obedient to the commandments of God.

Danny and Tommy lit the field on fire to get rid of the weeds. Soon all available men and women were trying to extinguish the flames. Danny and I learned several, but difficult lessons that day. Especially, the importance of obedience: for physical and spiritual safety. So that we might navigate successfully our mortal existence and return to our Heavenly Father.

To obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

The Lord requires the heart and a willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of Zion in these latter days.

Abraham’s obedience was tried and tested. For his faithfulness and obedience, the Lord gave him this glorious promise: in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because thou hast obeyed my voice.

Obedience is the first law of heaven.

The happiness, peace, progress, and prosperity of the Latter-day Saints lie in walking obedience to the counsel of God.

Obedience is the hallmark of prophets. We are all entitled to this source of strength and knowledge. It is readily available through obedience.

Walter Krauser saved his tithing for 10 years, not knowing when or if he’d have the privilege of paying it.

The great test of this life is obedience. We will prove them….All who shall have a blessing at my hands, shall abide….

No greater example of obedience exists than that of our Savior. “Thou He were a son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered…”

Ever was He humble; ever was He sincere; ever was he obedient.

He instructs you and me, “Follow Thou Me.”