Have you ever felt overwhelmed with a need to understand something? Perhaps you are reading a scripture, preparing a lesson, seeking a solution to a personal problem, trying to understand the temple better, or unsure of a decision you are facing. This need to understand, coupled with life itself, would describe the Nephites on one of the most glorious days of their history.
Consider their lives in the past year. On the "in the thirty fourth year, in the first month, on the fourth day of the month..." (3 Nephi 8:5), their world was changed forever. Turmoil, thunderings, storms, earthquakes, and destruction occurred throughout their land, last three hours, followed by utter blackness for three days. In the darkness was heard a voice from heaven recounting the fate of many cities, the fulfillment of the Law of Moses, and an invitation to come unto Christ. This was followed by "many hours" of silence in the land, and then, the voice of Christ was heard again, promising to gather His children. The three days pass away and "the darkness dispersed from off the face of the land, and the earth did cease to tremble, and the rocks did cease to rend, and the dreadful groanings did cease, and all the tumultuous noises did pass away." (3 Nephi 10:9)
I'm sure there was work for all in reconstructing their civilization following such immense turmoil. However, the Lord had more to tell them.
"In the ending of the firty and fourth year..." (3 Nephi 10:18), a great multitude gathered together at the temple in the land Bountiful, remembering their experiences at the time of His death, when a voice was heard. Three times the voice spoke before they understood, hearing the Father introduce His Beloved Son, then watching Him descend from heaven to stand with them. Then begins an overwhelming day, as they are invited forward, "one by one" to see and feel the wounds in his hisd, hands and feet, that He was the One "of whom it was written by the prophets, that should come."
But the experience of the day was not over. He taught them of baptism, called and commissioned the Twelve, preached the Sermon on the Mount, told of the "other sheep" and the latter day spreading of the Gospel, and of His return to rule and reign. Then is recorded, "he said unto them: Behold my time is at hand. I perceive that ye are weak, that ye cannot understand all my words which I am commanded of the Father to speak unto you at this time," (3 Nephi 17:1-2) Then follows the formula for gaining understanding:
1. "Go unto your homes" - go to a place of peace and quiet, a surrounding that allows you to follow the next steps.
2. "Ponder upon the things..." - clearly define and know what you are seeking to understand.
3. "Ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand" - pray!
4. "Prepare your minds for the morrow" - Be receptive to further teaching, understanding, knowledge
5. Revisit the situation - for the Nephites, this was to return the next day, when the Savior promised to return.
Their days had not yet ended, for then He healed the sick, prayed in words they could not write, and blessed their little children, taught them of and gave them the sacrament, and gave to the Twelve the power to give the Holy Ghost. THEN, He departed for the day.
His formula is true - it will bring us the answers we seek. May you find the answers you seek, the patience to seek, the Spirit to give you the guidance and answers, and a receptive heart to that which is His will.
Love, Mom
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Monday, January 31, 2011
Family Home Evening Thought - Jan 31
Little different kind of thought tonight. When I am in the car alone, I listen to a variety of CDs, mostly talks (I particularly like Sheri Dew, Michael Wilcox, and John Lund). However, another favorite is a set of CDs from Focus on the Family - radio dramas of the Chronicles of Narnia, with introductions by Paul Gresham, C.S. Lewis's stepson. Currently, I am listening to the Chronicles again. Each time I listen, I realize even more that Lewis's lion, Aslan, is a metaphor for Christ.
In November and December, I had the opportunity to help one of our assistant principals with a project she is involved with in her church. She and her husband are in charge of a program feeding the homeless in Seattle once a month. In November and December, she cooks 15 - 20 turkeys each month in the ovens at school, while an additional few turkeys are donated by her church for the power and they are given to students' families where there is need, as there always is. I helped both times this year, early in the morning putting the turkeys in the ovens, and after school, taking the meat off, and preparing it for distribution. The rest of the meal is prepared in their church in Seattle. They serve about 200 people there, then put the rest in take-out boxes and drive around in the church van handing out food. Together, we serve those less fortunate. As I worked this past holiday with her, I thought of the words of Lewis in Mere Christianity. These are words to remember as we work with others, also engaged in good works.
"I hope no reader will suppose that "mere" Christianity is here put forward as an alternative to the creeds of the existing communions — as if a man could adopt it in preference to Congregationalism or Greek Orthodoxy or anything else.
It is more like a hall out of which doors open into several rooms. If I can bring anyone into that hall, I have done what I attempted. But it is in the rooms, not the hall, that there are fires and chairs and meals. The hall is a place to wait in, a place from which to try the various doors, not a place to live in. For that purpose the worst of the rooms (whichever that may be) is, I think preferable. It is true that some people may find they have to wait in the hall for a considerable time, while others feel certain almost at once which door they must knock at. I do not know why there is this difference, but I am sure God keeps no one waiting unless He sees that it is good for him to wait. When you do get into the room you will find that the long wait has done some kind of good which you would not have had otherwise. But you must regard it as waiting, not as camping. You must keep on praying for light: and, of course, even in the hall, you must begin trying to obey the rules which are common to the whole house. And above all you must be asking which door is the true one; not which pleases you best by its paint and paneling.
In plain language, the question should never be: "Do I like that kind of service?" but "Are these doctrines true: Is holiness here? Does my conscience move me towards this? Is my reluctance to knock at this door due to my pride, or my mere taste, or my personal dislike of this particular door-keeper?"
When you have reached your own room, be kind to those who have chosen different doors and to those who are still in the hall. If they are wrong they need your prayers all the more; and if they are your enemies, then you are under orders to pray for them. This is one of the rules common to the whole house. (emphasis mine)
I have found my "room". I invite you to enter and participate there, if you have not yet found your room. There you will find true doctrines, holiness, truth.
Love, Mom
In November and December, I had the opportunity to help one of our assistant principals with a project she is involved with in her church. She and her husband are in charge of a program feeding the homeless in Seattle once a month. In November and December, she cooks 15 - 20 turkeys each month in the ovens at school, while an additional few turkeys are donated by her church for the power and they are given to students' families where there is need, as there always is. I helped both times this year, early in the morning putting the turkeys in the ovens, and after school, taking the meat off, and preparing it for distribution. The rest of the meal is prepared in their church in Seattle. They serve about 200 people there, then put the rest in take-out boxes and drive around in the church van handing out food. Together, we serve those less fortunate. As I worked this past holiday with her, I thought of the words of Lewis in Mere Christianity. These are words to remember as we work with others, also engaged in good works.
"I hope no reader will suppose that "mere" Christianity is here put forward as an alternative to the creeds of the existing communions — as if a man could adopt it in preference to Congregationalism or Greek Orthodoxy or anything else.
It is more like a hall out of which doors open into several rooms. If I can bring anyone into that hall, I have done what I attempted. But it is in the rooms, not the hall, that there are fires and chairs and meals. The hall is a place to wait in, a place from which to try the various doors, not a place to live in. For that purpose the worst of the rooms (whichever that may be) is, I think preferable. It is true that some people may find they have to wait in the hall for a considerable time, while others feel certain almost at once which door they must knock at. I do not know why there is this difference, but I am sure God keeps no one waiting unless He sees that it is good for him to wait. When you do get into the room you will find that the long wait has done some kind of good which you would not have had otherwise. But you must regard it as waiting, not as camping. You must keep on praying for light: and, of course, even in the hall, you must begin trying to obey the rules which are common to the whole house. And above all you must be asking which door is the true one; not which pleases you best by its paint and paneling.
In plain language, the question should never be: "Do I like that kind of service?" but "Are these doctrines true: Is holiness here? Does my conscience move me towards this? Is my reluctance to knock at this door due to my pride, or my mere taste, or my personal dislike of this particular door-keeper?"
When you have reached your own room, be kind to those who have chosen different doors and to those who are still in the hall. If they are wrong they need your prayers all the more; and if they are your enemies, then you are under orders to pray for them. This is one of the rules common to the whole house. (emphasis mine)
I have found my "room". I invite you to enter and participate there, if you have not yet found your room. There you will find true doctrines, holiness, truth.
Love, Mom
Monday, January 24, 2011
Family Home Evening Thought - Jan 24
I recently finished reading a phenomenal book about the apostasy, called The Inevitable Apostasy. I was impressed with this statement: "Knowledge of these doctrines [the restored Gospel] is power. It is the power to hae peace in troubled times, power to forge ahead when all else has collapsed around us, power to confront falsehood and sin..the greatest motivational power in all the world to be good and to do good." (Tad R. Callister, p. 371)
This year in Primary, our theme is "I Know the Scriptures are True". We are, as a Primary, striving to read the scriptures daily. Will you take the challenge?
Love, Mom
This year in Primary, our theme is "I Know the Scriptures are True". We are, as a Primary, striving to read the scriptures daily. Will you take the challenge?
Love, Mom
Monday, January 17, 2011
Family Home Evening Thought - Jan. 17
I want to share an experience in scripture study this week, not so much because of the message, but because of what this experience did for me as a scripture student. I read the Sunday School lesson each week, mark the scripture chain, and study the scripture mastery scripture for seminary (still teaching the scriptures in sign language with the music by the Sons of Ammon - if you are interested, Google that one - songs are free, some music is rather hokey, others are great), and decided for the days I have that done, I would go through the hymn book and become more familiar with the hymns and study the scripture references. I have found that sometimes, I think of other scriptures apply, and I find the references and write in my hymn book as I go. Most of the hymns are familiar, but there are some in the "new" hymn book (well, it is younger than any of my kids!) I am still unfamiliar with. This last week, I arrived at #126, How Long, O Lord Most Holy and True. Pretty sure I had never sung or played it before, so I pulled up the music on lds.org, and listened to it. The names of composer and lyricist are well known - John A. Widtsoe and Cecil Gates. For me, listening to the music, which has a strong minor feeling, set a mood that contrasted brilliantly with the words I was reading from D&C 138:11-19, 50-51 and Isaiah 61:1-2. I found myself pondering those faithful brothers and sisters, who came to earth and fulfilled their missions, long years before the Savior would come to break the bands of death, who then waited for that glorious event. I found myself pondering that great vision given to Joseph F. Smith in 1918, reading it again with new eyes. The Spirit bore witness to me of the truth of the account given in the Doctrine and Covenants, and also that the heavens continue to be open.
The point - someday, try something different for your scripture study. Choose a hymn and study the scriptures at the bottom, while the music plays. I have gained a great appreciation for the talented men and women whose works are in the hymn book, as well as a testimony of the power of the hymns to bring the Spirit, to teach, and to inspire.
Love, Mom
The point - someday, try something different for your scripture study. Choose a hymn and study the scriptures at the bottom, while the music plays. I have gained a great appreciation for the talented men and women whose works are in the hymn book, as well as a testimony of the power of the hymns to bring the Spirit, to teach, and to inspire.
Love, Mom
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Thought for the week, Jan. 9, 2011
Tangible
For me,
great strength comes every week
as I partake of the sacrament
and remind myself that I bear the name of Christ,
that I have taken it upon myself
like something tangible.
Sometimes,
when I am feeling lonely and tired,
I take the name of the Savior upon me
like a warm blanket.
I wrap myself in it
the way my two-year-old grandson
wraps himself in his cherished "blankey,"
and I feel warmed
and comforted.
If I am feeling vulnerable,
sometimes I take the name of Christ upon me
like armor,
feeling it solid
and bright
and impregnable,
so that no opposition can puncture it
and so that no wound can devastate me.
Sometimes
I take the name of Christ upon me
like Joseph's coat of many colors,
a beautiful garment
in which to dance
and rejoice
and praise the Lord.
-- Chieko Okazaki
Remember Him.
Love, Mom
For me,
great strength comes every week
as I partake of the sacrament
and remind myself that I bear the name of Christ,
that I have taken it upon myself
like something tangible.
Sometimes,
when I am feeling lonely and tired,
I take the name of the Savior upon me
like a warm blanket.
I wrap myself in it
the way my two-year-old grandson
wraps himself in his cherished "blankey,"
and I feel warmed
and comforted.
If I am feeling vulnerable,
sometimes I take the name of Christ upon me
like armor,
feeling it solid
and bright
and impregnable,
so that no opposition can puncture it
and so that no wound can devastate me.
Sometimes
I take the name of Christ upon me
like Joseph's coat of many colors,
a beautiful garment
in which to dance
and rejoice
and praise the Lord.
-- Chieko Okazaki
Remember Him.
Love, Mom
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Happy New Year (one day late)!
Just a thought to start out the year. Always remember:
You are God's own child. He loves you with an infinite love. You have infinite potential and worth. You are not to compare yourself with anyone else because God doesn't.
Have a wonderful year.
You are God's own child. He loves you with an infinite love. You have infinite potential and worth. You are not to compare yourself with anyone else because God doesn't.
Have a wonderful year.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Family Home Evening Thought - Oct. 18
It has been a few busy weeks since I wrote. Since then, I have had the opportunity to think about life and death. Three weeks ago, I again served as an interpreter for a funeral. This was for a young man I interpreted for some years ago. His parents are wonderful, humble people. His mother has a stutter at times, and is quite shy, while his father was a humble, quiet man, content to serve without being a leader, who also had some health problems for many years. They have three children, two daughter, and a son, who is deaf. The father passed away after several months with cancer, having previously had major heart and other problems. I got a call asking me to interpret, which I did. The funeral was a celebration of the life of a humble servant of Jesus Christ, who knew where he was going. While his family will miss him greatly, they know of the plan of the Lord and that they will be reunited someday.
Last Friday, I again learned that a good friend from my paraeducator days at Highlands, Debbie, is dying of CJD, a disease similar to "mad cow" disease. Three months ago, she was fine, and in the next few weeks, she will leave this life. This time, the hope of a reunion with her family is unknown, her husband acknowledges no higher power of any kind.
Death comes to all, eventually, but how grateful I am to know that when the time comes for me, and for those I love, I know where we will go, and have the promise of a reunion in the presence of my Father.
I love each of you. Love, Mom
Last Friday, I again learned that a good friend from my paraeducator days at Highlands, Debbie, is dying of CJD, a disease similar to "mad cow" disease. Three months ago, she was fine, and in the next few weeks, she will leave this life. This time, the hope of a reunion with her family is unknown, her husband acknowledges no higher power of any kind.
Death comes to all, eventually, but how grateful I am to know that when the time comes for me, and for those I love, I know where we will go, and have the promise of a reunion in the presence of my Father.
I love each of you. Love, Mom
Monday, September 6, 2010
Family Home Evening Thoughts - Sept. 6
While on our "sisters trip" this summer, Kathy Bertasso told of some advice she and Mike received in their mission presidents training. They were told that it was their choice to make every day a good day, regardless of what happened. We took that advice on Wednesday of our trip, as we walked around D.C. Our goal - we would not complain about the heat, regardless of how hot it was.
I have been trying to do better in my own life - trying not to complain about things that bother me. I'm not perfect by any means, but I am trying to be positive, even with the technology problems we are having at school.
Last night, we attended a fireside presented by Tom and Sandi Hachtel, of our ward. Tom and Sandi, together with many of their family members, participated in the Nauvoo pageant this summer. They told us of the advice they were given as family cast members. The weather in Nauvoo during the summer includes rain - sometimes very hard and persistent storm. Naturally, this isn't the most comfortable way to practice and perform. Tempers tend to flare, and complaints become divisive. They were given a quote from Brigham Young, telling the Saints how to get along with one another. This is my thought for the week.
"If you feel evil, keep it to yourselves until you overcome that evil principle. This is what I call resisting the devil, and he flees from me....when you are influenced by the Spirit of holiness and purity, let your light shine; but if you are tried and tempted and buffeted by Satan, keep your thoughts to yourselves - keep your mouths closed; for speaking produces fruit, either of a good or evil character...You frequently hear brethren and sisters say that they feel so tried and tempted, and have so many cares, and are so buffeted, that they must give vent to their feelings; and they yield to the temptation, and deal out their unpleasant sensations to their families and neighbors. Make up your minds thoroughly, once and for all, that if we have trials, the Lord has suffered them to be brought upon us. And he will give us grace to bear them...But if we have light or intelligence - that which will do good, we will impart it....let that be the determination of the individual, for spirit begets spirit-likeness; feelings beget their likeness....if then we give vent to all our bad feelings and disagreeable sensations, how quickly we beget the same in others, and load each other down with our troubles, and become sunk in darkness and despair!...in all your social communications...let all the dark, discontented, murmuring, unhappy, miserable feelings - all the evil fruit of the mind, fall from the tree in silence and unnoticed; and so let it perish, without taking it up to present to your neighbors. But when you have joy and happiness, light and intelligence, truth and virtue, offer that fruit abundantly to your neighbors, and it will do them good, and so strength the hands of your fellow beings.
Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, 5:351-352
I am accepting the challenge...will you?
Love, Mom
I have been trying to do better in my own life - trying not to complain about things that bother me. I'm not perfect by any means, but I am trying to be positive, even with the technology problems we are having at school.
Last night, we attended a fireside presented by Tom and Sandi Hachtel, of our ward. Tom and Sandi, together with many of their family members, participated in the Nauvoo pageant this summer. They told us of the advice they were given as family cast members. The weather in Nauvoo during the summer includes rain - sometimes very hard and persistent storm. Naturally, this isn't the most comfortable way to practice and perform. Tempers tend to flare, and complaints become divisive. They were given a quote from Brigham Young, telling the Saints how to get along with one another. This is my thought for the week.
"If you feel evil, keep it to yourselves until you overcome that evil principle. This is what I call resisting the devil, and he flees from me....when you are influenced by the Spirit of holiness and purity, let your light shine; but if you are tried and tempted and buffeted by Satan, keep your thoughts to yourselves - keep your mouths closed; for speaking produces fruit, either of a good or evil character...You frequently hear brethren and sisters say that they feel so tried and tempted, and have so many cares, and are so buffeted, that they must give vent to their feelings; and they yield to the temptation, and deal out their unpleasant sensations to their families and neighbors. Make up your minds thoroughly, once and for all, that if we have trials, the Lord has suffered them to be brought upon us. And he will give us grace to bear them...But if we have light or intelligence - that which will do good, we will impart it....let that be the determination of the individual, for spirit begets spirit-likeness; feelings beget their likeness....if then we give vent to all our bad feelings and disagreeable sensations, how quickly we beget the same in others, and load each other down with our troubles, and become sunk in darkness and despair!...in all your social communications...let all the dark, discontented, murmuring, unhappy, miserable feelings - all the evil fruit of the mind, fall from the tree in silence and unnoticed; and so let it perish, without taking it up to present to your neighbors. But when you have joy and happiness, light and intelligence, truth and virtue, offer that fruit abundantly to your neighbors, and it will do them good, and so strength the hands of your fellow beings.
Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, 5:351-352
I am accepting the challenge...will you?
Love, Mom
Monday, August 16, 2010
Family Home Evening Thought - Aug. 16
I have spent the past several months in a study of the Book of Mormon, using a study guide. Each week, I have had to interrupt my Book of Mormon study for a day or two and read the Sunday School lesson, again with a study guide, because I spend my time in Primary each Sunday. I have finished the Book of Mormon, and decided to read as I exercise. While on the "sisters trip", I heard about having a Book of Mormon spiral bound to make it easy to prop on the treadmill/elliptical/bicycle. I came home and got one bound, and am reading that as I "ride". I decided for study time each morning to read/study the book The Infinite Atonement by Tad R. Callister. Tonight, I would like to share a couple of thoughts that have impressed me as I have read the book and scripture references:
1. The Atonement is glorious to behold and study. Regardless of where I am in my understanding, there is always more for me to learn.
2. The time and place for the Atonement was as the Son of God stood alone in all His majestic power against all the artillery of the Evil One. It was divine love in its consummate expression battling diabolic evil in its cruelest proportions.
3. Elder McConkie said the Atonement is "the most important single thing that has ever occurred in the entire history of created things; it is the rock foundation upon which the gospel and all other things rest."
4. The Atonement is the heart of the Gospel, the lifeblood that quickens every gospel precept, the center and core and heart of revealed religion.
5. The scriptures promise, again and again, that if I ask, I will be given. I plan to do just that. (See D&C 42:61, 6:7, 11:7, 1 Nephi 10:19)
I am so excited about the opportunity to have the opportunity each morning to study His gospel, to learn more of His ways, to become more like Him. What a blessing to have the "new" scriptures, with footnotes to all the other scriptures, as well as explanatory notes. My children don't really remember not having them, but many of us do. The work put into cross-referencing everything is a great blessing. Just as astronomers today can learn more of the heavens than Galileo could, not because they are smarter, but because they have better tools, I can learn more now than I could before, because I have better "tools".
The Gospel is true. Jesus Christ is our Savior, Redeemer, Mediator. Isaiah said, "...come unto the Lord, the Holy One. Remember that his paths are righteous. Behold, the way for man is narrow, but it lieth in a straight course before him, and the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there; and there is none other way save it be by the gate; for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name." (2 Nephi 9:41) I may not understand all He did for me or how it was possible, but I can spend my life learning, with an eternity hereafter to continue that education.
Love, Mom
1. The Atonement is glorious to behold and study. Regardless of where I am in my understanding, there is always more for me to learn.
2. The time and place for the Atonement was as the Son of God stood alone in all His majestic power against all the artillery of the Evil One. It was divine love in its consummate expression battling diabolic evil in its cruelest proportions.
3. Elder McConkie said the Atonement is "the most important single thing that has ever occurred in the entire history of created things; it is the rock foundation upon which the gospel and all other things rest."
4. The Atonement is the heart of the Gospel, the lifeblood that quickens every gospel precept, the center and core and heart of revealed religion.
5. The scriptures promise, again and again, that if I ask, I will be given. I plan to do just that. (See D&C 42:61, 6:7, 11:7, 1 Nephi 10:19)
I am so excited about the opportunity to have the opportunity each morning to study His gospel, to learn more of His ways, to become more like Him. What a blessing to have the "new" scriptures, with footnotes to all the other scriptures, as well as explanatory notes. My children don't really remember not having them, but many of us do. The work put into cross-referencing everything is a great blessing. Just as astronomers today can learn more of the heavens than Galileo could, not because they are smarter, but because they have better tools, I can learn more now than I could before, because I have better "tools".
The Gospel is true. Jesus Christ is our Savior, Redeemer, Mediator. Isaiah said, "...come unto the Lord, the Holy One. Remember that his paths are righteous. Behold, the way for man is narrow, but it lieth in a straight course before him, and the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there; and there is none other way save it be by the gate; for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name." (2 Nephi 9:41) I may not understand all He did for me or how it was possible, but I can spend my life learning, with an eternity hereafter to continue that education.
Love, Mom
Monday, August 9, 2010
Family Home Evening - August 9
Home again, after a wonderful trip with three of my sisters. We left Salt Lake City on July 25, flew into Washington, D.C., toured there until Thursday morning, when we headed for Mount Vernon, then Williamsburg, VA. We returned to D.C. early Saturday, July 31, with time for a temple session before flying back to Salt Lake City that evening. I've thought alot about our country and the things we saw during that week. We visited the usual tourist attractions in D.C., saw the same things many others have seen, walked many miles, rode the Metro (great!), talked many hours, prayed, laughed, worried about family at home, saw sad things and exciting things, places where history was made, and places that reminded us of our many blessings. The thing that stands out in my mind this evening is the condition of our country today. We visited the National Archives, and saw the documents that established this country - the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, and Constitution. In the American History Museum, we saw the tattered remnants of the flag that inspired the Star Spangled Banner. We drove around the battlefield at Yorktown, ending our tour at Surrender Field, where the British surrendered to the colonial army. We walked the grounds and mansion at Mount Vernon, and watched Boy Scouts lay a wreath at the tomb of Washington. We walked around the monuments to Lincoln, Washington, Jefferson, as well as the World War 2, Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Marine Memorial, with the famous statue of the flag being raised at Iwo Jima. We walked the hills of Arlington and watched the solemn changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns. We also sat in the Senate gallery and watched the proceedings there. What I saw in the Senate didn't impress me. We all had the same impression - our country was established by statesmen, today we have politicians. For me, the most striking example was as one senator was speaking, many of the senators present (they weren't all there) were having side conversations. In fact, one very recognizable senator continued his conversation with three others, totally ignoring what his colleague had to say. There was no sense of courtesy for what another elected official was saying.
I was reading Ether from the Book of Mormon while on the trip, and read these words, "this land became a choice land above all other lands, a chosen land of the Lord; wherefore the Lord would have that all men should serve him who dwell upon the face thereof." (Ether 13:2) I was saddened by what I saw. Brave men and women sacrificed, many giving even their lives, that this country may be established. I don't believe they would be happy with what is happening today. There is a seeking for power and riches that blinds men to the source of their many blessings.
May we always remember the cost that has been paid for this land, and remember the promises made by God to those who live here. It is my prayer daily that we, as a nation, will remember those two words from the Pledge of Allegiance, "under God", that we may remember who is to one day reign as King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.
Love, Mom
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Sunday Afternoon - Idaho Falls - July 11
Rachel arrived here yesterday, with Jennifer and Matthew - time for Grandma to engage in some serious time with Matthew. We went to the Goshen and Shelley cemetaries yesterday, saw where all of our children's paternal great-grandparents are buried, as well as other paternal family members. Had a good visit. Took Matthew swimming here at the motel last night - he had a great time.
Went to Goshen ward today, where Clay grew up. Family filled three and a half rows of the center section in Sacrament Meeting! Went to the cemetary again with family, had some visiting time. We'll have more serious visiting time tomorrow.
Rachel and passengers left about an hour ago to return to Utah - back to work and school for them. I can't wait to see them again in 10 days when I head to Utah. They left with all the toys/clothes/Halloween costumes from Suzanne, now Jennifer's problem. I will leave with a quilt repair project. Weather has included a few showers, not too hot here.
Families are forever - for which we are most grateful.
Mom
Went to Goshen ward today, where Clay grew up. Family filled three and a half rows of the center section in Sacrament Meeting! Went to the cemetary again with family, had some visiting time. We'll have more serious visiting time tomorrow.
Rachel and passengers left about an hour ago to return to Utah - back to work and school for them. I can't wait to see them again in 10 days when I head to Utah. They left with all the toys/clothes/Halloween costumes from Suzanne, now Jennifer's problem. I will leave with a quilt repair project. Weather has included a few showers, not too hot here.
Families are forever - for which we are most grateful.
Mom
Friday, July 9, 2010
Safely in Idaho Falls
We have had a wonderful trip so far. We spent last night in Diamond Lake, Washington. We have friends who have a bed and breakfast there, the Inn at the Lake. I highly recommend them - it is on Diamond Lake, and beautiful. I will post pictures tomorrow. It was so fun to visit with Blaine and Virgina Coffey, they send their best to our children who know them. They look, great, Blaine is the bishop of the Newport Ward (yes, there is another Newport Ward).
We left there on US 2 to Sandpoint, then to Missoula on US 200 - a beautiful drive along a river, with lakes appearing occasionally. Montana, as always, is lots of open space with some trains. Pictures to be posted for Ryan.
We arrived about 8 pm in Idaho Falls, after driving through a few sprinkles and one rain storm that lasted only briefly.
Looking forward to a great visit with family.
Mom
We left there on US 2 to Sandpoint, then to Missoula on US 200 - a beautiful drive along a river, with lakes appearing occasionally. Montana, as always, is lots of open space with some trains. Pictures to be posted for Ryan.
We arrived about 8 pm in Idaho Falls, after driving through a few sprinkles and one rain storm that lasted only briefly.
Looking forward to a great visit with family.
Mom
Monday, July 5, 2010
Family Home Evening Thought - July 5
I have been thinking about blessings today - how richly we are blessed, as individuals and as a family. I thought of how the Lord works - we have needs, we give Him what we have, and He gives us what we need and more. Then I thought of how this lesson is taught in the scriptures.
1 Kings 17 - Elijah is told a widow woman will provide for him during a time of drought. He asks her for bread, and she explains that she has a little meal and oil, is going to prepare it for herself and her son, and then they will die. Elijah tells her to prepare and bring him a little cake first, "for thus saith the LORD God of Israel, the barrel of meal shall not waster, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth." It is recorded that this promise was fulfilled.
2 Kings 4 - Elisha was approached by a widow whose sons were to be taken be a creditor as bondsmen. Elisha asked what she had in the house. She had a pot of oil, nothing more. Elisha told her to bottow empty vessels from her neighbors, to borrow "not a few". She was to pour out the oil into the other vessels. She did so, and when all were filled, she still had oil in her pot. Elisha told her to sell the oil, pay the debt, and she and her children were to live on the rest.
Mark 6 (also Matthew 14) - Christ had been teaching all day, and the multitude were hungry. There was only 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. The Savior took all that there was, blessed it, brake, and the disciples distributed it among the people. "and they all did eat, and were filled." 5000 were fed, and there were 12 baskets of leftovers.
Matthew 15 - again, a multitude had gathered to hear the Master teach, and for three days, they were with him. The Savior noted their hunger, and asked the disciples what they had to feed the people. There were 7 loaves and a few little fishes, according to the record. Again, He took, blessed, brake, and gave to His disciples to feed the people. There were 4000 fed and 7 baskets of the broken meat left.
In this dispensation, when the Saints were forced to flee Nauvoo, taking what they had, there were many who didn't have enough to care for their families. It was October,1846, and many were struggling to get to Winter Quarters, where the Saints would winter in preparation for a spring departure to the west. The records show that on Oct. 9, quail appeared in the camp, so many that the Saints could pick them up with their hands. As had happened to ancient Israel camped in the wilderness (Exodus 16), there was sufficient for their needs that day. Later that day, additional supplies were delivered to the camp.
It is my testimony that when we give the Lord all we have, He will take, give us what we need, and He always gives us more. May we all diligently give what we have, for the blessings are without measure. We have seen great blessings in the family recently, especially with Katherine and the flood waters. As King Benjamin said, (Mosiah 2:21-24) "and he are still indebted unto him, and are, and will be, forever and ever."
Love, Mom
1 Kings 17 - Elijah is told a widow woman will provide for him during a time of drought. He asks her for bread, and she explains that she has a little meal and oil, is going to prepare it for herself and her son, and then they will die. Elijah tells her to prepare and bring him a little cake first, "for thus saith the LORD God of Israel, the barrel of meal shall not waster, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth." It is recorded that this promise was fulfilled.
2 Kings 4 - Elisha was approached by a widow whose sons were to be taken be a creditor as bondsmen. Elisha asked what she had in the house. She had a pot of oil, nothing more. Elisha told her to bottow empty vessels from her neighbors, to borrow "not a few". She was to pour out the oil into the other vessels. She did so, and when all were filled, she still had oil in her pot. Elisha told her to sell the oil, pay the debt, and she and her children were to live on the rest.
Mark 6 (also Matthew 14) - Christ had been teaching all day, and the multitude were hungry. There was only 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. The Savior took all that there was, blessed it, brake, and the disciples distributed it among the people. "and they all did eat, and were filled." 5000 were fed, and there were 12 baskets of leftovers.
Matthew 15 - again, a multitude had gathered to hear the Master teach, and for three days, they were with him. The Savior noted their hunger, and asked the disciples what they had to feed the people. There were 7 loaves and a few little fishes, according to the record. Again, He took, blessed, brake, and gave to His disciples to feed the people. There were 4000 fed and 7 baskets of the broken meat left.
In this dispensation, when the Saints were forced to flee Nauvoo, taking what they had, there were many who didn't have enough to care for their families. It was October,1846, and many were struggling to get to Winter Quarters, where the Saints would winter in preparation for a spring departure to the west. The records show that on Oct. 9, quail appeared in the camp, so many that the Saints could pick them up with their hands. As had happened to ancient Israel camped in the wilderness (Exodus 16), there was sufficient for their needs that day. Later that day, additional supplies were delivered to the camp.
It is my testimony that when we give the Lord all we have, He will take, give us what we need, and He always gives us more. May we all diligently give what we have, for the blessings are without measure. We have seen great blessings in the family recently, especially with Katherine and the flood waters. As King Benjamin said, (Mosiah 2:21-24) "and he are still indebted unto him, and are, and will be, forever and ever."
Love, Mom
Saturday, June 19, 2010
A Family Home Evening Thought - Good-Things-to-Come
Good-Things-to-Come
I have been pondering the events of the past week, and the tender mercies of the Lord extended to Katherine as she has coped with the problems arising from the flooding of her home, with Rob in Iraq, and family all living in other states. How grateful we are, as her mother and father-in-law, to all who have helped her. Our prayers have been with her as she as done all that is needful. I found this video and thought of her, and of each of us as we face challenges. We never know when, in an instant, our lives will be changed. Katherine didn't get up Wednesday morning expecting to have everything change. Mortality is a test, and, as with all tests, we don't get to see the questions in advance. We have to go forward, with faith, knowing that when we are prepared, we need not fear. Love, Mom
Click on link above to watch an awesome video.
I have been pondering the events of the past week, and the tender mercies of the Lord extended to Katherine as she has coped with the problems arising from the flooding of her home, with Rob in Iraq, and family all living in other states. How grateful we are, as her mother and father-in-law, to all who have helped her. Our prayers have been with her as she as done all that is needful. I found this video and thought of her, and of each of us as we face challenges. We never know when, in an instant, our lives will be changed. Katherine didn't get up Wednesday morning expecting to have everything change. Mortality is a test, and, as with all tests, we don't get to see the questions in advance. We have to go forward, with faith, knowing that when we are prepared, we need not fear. Love, Mom
Click on link above to watch an awesome video.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Family Home Evening on Sunday Morning
This morning, after scripture and personal study, I checked emails, and found a wonderful video link from a friend. As I watched, the Spirit whispered to me that I (as are each of you) am like the bear cub - threatened by the adversary who would have me stopped in my progression towards the day I return to my Heavenly Father and Mother. However, just as there is hope for the bear cub, there is One who stands ready and waiting for me to call for His help. That call will not go unheeded.
http://www.flixxy.com/game-of-survival.htm
I am grateful for talented nieces and nephews also, who make wonderful videos sharing the same message. This one was made by Matt and Julie for a cottage meeting at their home recently.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gf5YoIgL6Mk
The message is the same - come unto Christ, who will provide us with the peace, clarity of thought, rest, joy, and love we need to overcome the world.
I testify this day that He lives, and is waiting for us to come unto Him. When doubts, fears, temptations, invitations of the world, and adversity assail us, we can go to Him, we can call out to Him at our darkest moment, and He will answer. When the world turns its back on us, He is there waiting for us.
Love, Mom
http://www.flixxy.com/game-of-survival.htm
I am grateful for talented nieces and nephews also, who make wonderful videos sharing the same message. This one was made by Matt and Julie for a cottage meeting at their home recently.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gf5YoIgL6Mk
The message is the same - come unto Christ, who will provide us with the peace, clarity of thought, rest, joy, and love we need to overcome the world.
I testify this day that He lives, and is waiting for us to come unto Him. When doubts, fears, temptations, invitations of the world, and adversity assail us, we can go to Him, we can call out to Him at our darkest moment, and He will answer. When the world turns its back on us, He is there waiting for us.
Love, Mom
Monday, May 24, 2010
Family Home Evening Thought - May 24
I tried to watch this three times before it would play. Don't know if it was overload on the server or what. I was so impressed. Makes all my problems seem small. I was especially touched with a scripture quoted at the end: D&C 84:88 "I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up." When life seems tough, remember this beautiful promise. He will always be with us.
My New Life
Love, Mom
My New Life
Love, Mom
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Family Home Evening Thought: Push-ups for doughnuts
This story, Push-up for Donuts, was told in Church today (without the assistance of youtube). I found this version on Google. The video tells it all. Christ lived, died, and was resurrected on the third day, and, in a future day, will stand triumphant upon the earth.
Love, Mom
Monday, April 26, 2010
Family Home Evening Thought
What a wonderful opportunity to share a few thoughts with such special people as my family. I have been impressed the past few weeks with the resounding emphasis placed on family, both at General Conference and this past weekend at stake conference. Our stake president commented that he gave his counselors no assigned topic, yet all of them spoke about strengthening family, and the same messages came in the Saturday evening adult session. Family is the most important relationship we can be part of. The family is under attack on all sides. Know how much we love each of you. We weren't perfect parents and still aren't, but in all, we have done what we could. We have learned that we can't judge our parents, because when we weren't parents, we didn't realize how hard it is. Now we know, and continue to learn how to be good parents, even when you are all grown.
Life hasn't always given us what we wanted, but we have been richly blessed. I am impressed with the scripture chosed for the Young Men and Women's theme this year, "Be strong and of a good courage..." (Joshua 1:6) May we each be strong and of good courage, that we may stand together in our determination that our family be united in doing good, living righteously, and loving all.
I have posted a link to a YouTube video. I hope you enjoy.
God bless,
Love, Mom
Life hasn't always given us what we wanted, but we have been richly blessed. I am impressed with the scripture chosed for the Young Men and Women's theme this year, "Be strong and of a good courage..." (Joshua 1:6) May we each be strong and of good courage, that we may stand together in our determination that our family be united in doing good, living righteously, and loving all.
I have posted a link to a YouTube video. I hope you enjoy.
God bless,
Love, Mom
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