Today's lesson was taught by me, and was entitled "Change your focus...setting priorities."
I have some pictures displayed here that I took on my trip to Salt Lake this year. Each portrays the beautiful Salt Lake temple, but can you tell me what is missing from these pictures? (close up pictures of the temple, nothing in background.)
(Put out other pictures) Here are some more pictures I took on that same trip. (wider shots, showing other buildings, construction equipment, trees, etc.) As you can see, the temple is actually surrounded by many larger buildings, and at that time, construction equipment. It was actually quite difficult to get a picture of just the temple. It required changing my perspective, changing the angle of the shot, and some editing afterwards. It struck me as I was taking pictures and trying to figure out how to get a shot of just the temple with no other buildings that this could be an analogy for life. How many times have we overlooked the most important part of our “big picture” by only seeing those less important, but more conspicuous items?
For this lesson, I drew from two talks by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. One is entitled “The Influence of Righteous Women” from the Sept 2009 Ensign, and the other is “We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down” from the April 2009 Priesthood Session of General Conference.
In the second talk, President Uchtdorf relates the following story;
“On a dark December night 36 years ago, a Lockheed 1011 jumbo jet crashed into the Florida Everglades, killing over 100 people. This terrible accident was one of the deadliest crashes in the history of the United States.
A curious thing about this accident is that all vital parts and systems of the airplane were functioning perfectly—the plane could have easily landed safely at its destination in Miami, only 20 miles away. During the final approach, however, the crew noticed that one green light had failed to illuminate—a light that indicates whether or not the nose landing gear has extended successfully. The pilots discontinued the approach, set the aircraft into a circling holding pattern over the pitch-black Everglades, and turned their attention toward investigating the problem. They became so preoccupied with their search that they failed to realize the plane was gradually descending closer and closer toward the dark swamp below. By the time someone noticed what was happening, it was too late to avoid the disaster. After the accident, investigators tried to determine the cause. The landing gear had indeed lowered properly. The plane was in perfect mechanical condition. Everything was working properly—all except one thing: a single burned-out lightbulb. That tiny bulb—worth about 20 cents—started the chain of events that ultimately led to the tragic death of over 100 people. Of course, the malfunctioning lightbulb didn’t cause the accident; it happened because the crew placed its focus on something that seemed to matter at the moment while losing sight of what mattered most.”
The things that fill each of our lives are assigned value and importance by each one of us individually. Where do our priorities lie? President Uchtdorf tells us that “The tendency to focus on the insignificant at the expense of the profound happens...to everyone. We know what matters most in life—the Light of Christ teaches this to everyone. We as faithful Latter-day Saints have the Holy Ghost as a “constant companion” to teach us the things of eternal value. I imagine that any {of you here today} if asked to prepare a talk on the subject “what matters most,” could and would do an excellent job. Our weakness is in failing to align our actions with our conscience.”
Where do you assign the most value? One indication would be the things you choose to do when you have a few quiet moments, or the first thing on your “to-do” list. What takes up the majority of your waking hours? Quite frequently, the things that occupy our time are not “bad” or “unrighteous;” often times, they are necessary, wholesome, and fulfilling. However, even righteous pursuits can become a pitfall, when taken to the excess. An example of this is a father who spends hours researching family history, creating impeccable charts and graphs of his genealogy, while avoiding any quality time with his children. Or a grandmother who spends hours upon hours lovingly tending to a garden, pulling weeds and aerating soil, while ignoring “the spiritual weeds that threaten to choke her soul.” President Uchtdorf says; “There is a saying that big gates move on small hinges. Sisters, your example in seemingly small things will make a big difference in the lives of {those around you.} The way you dress and groom yourselves, the way you talk, the way you pray, the way you testify, the way you live every day will make the difference. This includes which TV shows you watch, which music you prefer, and how you use the Internet. If you love to go to the temple, the young people who value your example will also love to go. If you adapt your wardrobe to the temple garment and not the other way around, your friends will know what you consider important, and they will learn from you.” If the temple in these pictures represent becoming more like Christ, what buildings are we putting up in front of the temple? What I mean is what are we assigning importance to in our lives? Housework, blogging, television, etc. I am not saying that these things are bad, or even unnecessary in each of our lives, however consider this; if your children, grandchildren, neighbors, or friends were asked “What does Sis. So and So stand for? What are her priorities?” What answer would they give? When my husband asked our son what Mommy does all day, ....’s answer was “watch TV.” Now, I assure you, that is not the case, but from a 3 year old perspective, he imagined that being allowed to watch tv was a priority in my life, because it tends to be a priority in his. I realized that I tend to do all the housework while ... is at school or napping, so the one hour he sees me watching television seems to him to be what Mommy does. But it made me more aware of what I was unknowingly teaching my children about priorities, and about what is important. My husband brought up in interesting point when we were talking about this “buildings in front of the temple” analogy. When you are standing inside of the temple, all you see is the beauty and spirituality within. You don’t realize that those standing outside have a different view. So, while we are busy taking care of the day to day priorities we’ve assigned in our lives, we might not realize that the beauty of the light of Christ might not be radiating so brightly on the outside as it could be.
President Uchtdorf continues; “Even some programs of the Church can become a distraction if we take them to extremes and allow them to dominate our time and our attention at the expense of things that matter most. We need balance in life. We live in the latter days. The gospel of Jesus Christ is restored to the earth. The keys of the priesthood of God are given again to man. We live in an era of anticipation and preparation, entrusted by God to prepare ourselves, our families, our world for the approaching dawn—the day when the Son of God will “descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God” and usher in His millennial reign.These are the things that matter most. These are the things of eternal value that deserve our attention. We cannot and we must not allow ourselves to get distracted from our sacred duty. We cannot and we must not lose focus on the things that matter most.”
In the early days of the Restoration, the Lord spoke to Emma Smith through her husband, the Prophet Joseph Smith, giving her instructions and blessings: “[Be] faithful and walk in the paths of virtue before me. … Thou needest not fear. … Thou shalt lay aside the things of this world, and seek for the things of a better. … Lift up thy heart and rejoice. … And a crown of righteousness thou shalt receive” (D&C 25:2, 9, 10, 13, 15).Of this revelation, the Lord declared, “This is my voice unto all” (verse 16). Later, the Prophet Joseph Smith told the sisters, “If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.”
Thinking about the importance of keeping your focus on the things that matter most, and not being distracted; I came up with a parable regarding a three ring circus. Imagine you are sitting in the stands and suddenly the tigers are in the center ring. You hear the ringmaster announce “Ladies and gentlemen, please direct your eyes to the center ring. While you watch with wonder, I will tell you all that you need to know!” You are captivated as the tigers begin jumping through fiery hoops and balancing on teeter totters. Right in the middle of the performance, you look to the ring on the right and see the trapeze artists being to swing and perform aerial feats with out a net. It’s amazing, it’s death defying! You can’t tear your eyes away as they swing through the air (with the greatest of ease!) But the tigers are now making a pyramid! It’s beautiful and incredible...wait now the tightrope walker is carrying a baby across! With no net! You don’t know where to look. The ringmaster is announcing something, but you are too amazed by the performances to listen. Out of the corner of your eye you see clowns in the left ring. They are funny, they are silly, and they are pulling pranks on the audience, better give them your full attention! The ringmaster keeps saying something....what is it? Oh, who cares? The lady sitting next you gasps and you whip back around to the center ring to see a beautiful lady with her head fully inside one of the tiger’s mouths. The tightrope walker is juggling chainsaws! The clowns are requesting volunteers from the audience! Look at the tigers dancing on two paws! The clowns are riding elephants! Oh why can’t that ring master stop jabbering? The trapeze artists are swinging by their ears! Suddenly it goes completely dark. A hush falls across the crowd. No one knows what to do, when a spotlight shines directly down on you. The ringmaster speaks just two words. “Tell Them.” You are panicked. Tell them? Tell who? Tell what? The ringmaster says again “Tell them.” You clear your throat and yell out “Tell them what?” The ringmaster says “tell them what they are supposed to do. Tell them what is important. Tell them what I said during the show.” You look around anxiously, did anyone hear him? Still, the tent remains silent. You announce “I couldn’t hear you, I was too busy watching the shows.” The ringmaster hangs his head sadly and asks “Was anyone listening?” The tent lights up again and this time the ringmaster seems to be gone. The performers pick up right where they left off. The show is amazing, there is so much going on, the audience is so excited. But you can’t stop thinking about the ringmaster. “Tell them.” Have you missed something important? Have you missed something vital? Amidst the amazing stunts, incredible performances, and awe inspiring feats... Did you loose focus on the point? What did the ringmaster tell you? You look down to your hands in despair, and find your fingers wrapped around a pamphlet. You have it there! You have all of the ringmaster’s information written down for you! You start to shout, “I know! I can tell you what the ringmaster said! Look here, listen!” Ignore the clowns! Forget the tigers! I can tell you what was most important!” I’m sure some would listen, some would look down and realize they too had the pamphlet. Some would scan over it. Some would tuck it into their pockets for after the performances. Some would just drop it to the floor, figuring there is always time to read after the show. But, some would take it immediately outside the tent where they could sit down and study it. Most would finish reading, shrug, and go back in to see the elephants. Some would stay outside, keep reading, but complain about what they were missing inside. But a few, just a few, would start looking for the ringmaster, thanking him for the information, marveling in the goodness of his words, begging him for more, thanking him and giving him praise. Where are you? Are you inside enjoying the show but ignoring that which is most important? Are you studying the information but wishing you were back in the middle of the excitement? Or are you kneeling at the ringmaster’s feet listening intently to the message he is delivering, choosing to ignore the distractions all around?
Continuing with President Uchtdorf’s talk, he says; “My dear sisters, as you live your daily life with all its blessings and challenges, let me assure you that the Lord loves you. He knows you. He listens to your prayers, and He answers those prayers, wherever on this world you may be. He wants you to succeed in this life and in eternity. May I invite you to rise to the great potential within you. But don’t reach beyond your capacity. Don’t set goals beyond your capacity to achieve. Don’t feel guilty or dwell on thoughts of failure. Don’t compare yourself with others. Do the best you can, and the Lord will provide the rest. Have faith and confidence in Him, and you will see miracles happen in your life and the lives of your loved ones. The virtue of your own life will be a light to those who sit in darkness, because you are a living witness of the fulness of the gospel (see D&C 45:28). Wherever you have been planted on this beautiful but often troubled earth of ours, you can be the one to “succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees” (D&C 81:5). “
I think most of us tend to have days were we think we can do nothing right. We say to ourselves that it doesn’t matter what we do, because today is an “off” day. We don’t imagine that one day of many can be so very important. To that, President David O. McKay said that the principal reason the Church was organized is “to make life sweet today, to give contentment to the heart today, to bring salvation today… Some of us look forward to a time in the future—salvation and exaltation in the world to come—but today is part of eternity.” The things we do today do matter. We should not loose focus on that which is most important just because a bad day, week, or year seems to be overshadowing our progression.
Does anyone know the story of Nehemiah in the Old Testament? Nehemiah was an Israelite who lived in exile in Babylon and served the king. The king gave Nehemiah permission to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the city. Several rulers who lived near Jerusalem were not happy about the rebuilding, and “took great indignation, and mocked the Jews.” (Nehemiah 4:1)
“Nehemiah did not allow the opposition to distract him. Instead, he organized his resources and manpower and moved forward rebuilding the city. But as the walls of the city began to rise, opposition intensified. Nehemiah’s enemies threatened, conspired, and ridiculed. Their threats were very real, and they grew so intimidating that Nehemiah confessed, “They all made us afraid.” (Nehemiah 6:9) As the work continued, Nehemiah’s enemies became more desperate. Four times they entreated him to leave the safety of the city and meet with them under the pretense of resolving the conflict, but Nehemiah knew that their intent was to do him harm. Each time they approached him, he responded with the same answer: “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down.” (Nehemiah 6:3)
President Uchtdorf says to us; “Our Heavenly Father seeks those who refuse to allow the trivial to hinder them in their pursuit of the eternal. He seeks those who will not allow the attraction of ease or the traps of the adversary to distract them from the work He has given them to perform. He seeks those whose actions conform to their words—those who say with conviction, “I am doing a great work and cannot come down.” The Lord loves you and is mindful of the purity of your hearts and the steadfastness of your resolve. He blesses you for your fidelity, guides your path, and uses your gifts and talents in building His kingdom on this earth.”
By refusing to let ourselves become distracted by the things that are not most important, we serve the Lord in trying to become more like Him. It is my hope that in this new year, we can all put aside those distractions, and learn to focus on the things that matter the most. I would like to bear my testimony that I know that this church is the true church of Jesus Christ restored to the earth in it's entirety. I know that President Monson is a true prophet of God. I know that Joseph Smith was a true prophet, and that he said and did the things he said he did. I am proud to be a mother of two wonderful, beautiful, and amazing children. I am honored to serve in this ward and to be a member of your ward family. I say these things in n the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Today in Relief Society, 5 Dec. 2010
Today, Sis. Brown had a wonderful idea. She gave us each a hymn book. She said she was going to give us time to bear our testimonies, especially relating things that happened around Christmastime in past years that strengthened our testimonies. In between each person, we sang a Christmas hymn. It was lovely and fun, and very spiritual. Thank you to all who bore their testimonies. Merry Christmas!
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Sunday lessons/ Today in RS
I am no longer going to continue doing a recap of every week's lesson on here, I will do the first Sunday presidency messages, but all of the lessons for the second,third, and fourth weeks are available in the book, or in the Ensign/Online.
This Sunday, Sis. Sue Brown gave our presidency message, and it was on sustaining one another in our callings. She had Jenga blocks, and had us each come up and take a block, telling about how we felt sustained in one of our previous or current callings. Then, she had us stack up the Jenga blocks the correct way. After, we talked about how when you don't sustain someone in their calling, it weakens our ward family, and started pulling out blocks. We talked about how not doing what you are asked by your auxiliary presidencies, not accepting assignments, criticizing others;especially those in callings we've previously held, and not showing up to planned activities are all things that could weaken our tower, but how the Lord is the center block on each level of our tower, just as He is the center of all of our wards and He will NOT let our wards fall apart. This is His church, and we are all here to glorify Him by supporting one another. It was a very powerful lesson, and we thank Sis. Brown for coming up with it!
This Sunday, Sis. Sue Brown gave our presidency message, and it was on sustaining one another in our callings. She had Jenga blocks, and had us each come up and take a block, telling about how we felt sustained in one of our previous or current callings. Then, she had us stack up the Jenga blocks the correct way. After, we talked about how when you don't sustain someone in their calling, it weakens our ward family, and started pulling out blocks. We talked about how not doing what you are asked by your auxiliary presidencies, not accepting assignments, criticizing others;especially those in callings we've previously held, and not showing up to planned activities are all things that could weaken our tower, but how the Lord is the center block on each level of our tower, just as He is the center of all of our wards and He will NOT let our wards fall apart. This is His church, and we are all here to glorify Him by supporting one another. It was a very powerful lesson, and we thank Sis. Brown for coming up with it!
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Today in Relief Society, 5 Sept. 2010
Today the RS lesson was taught by yours truly. The lesson was on how each of us matters. I call it "The Celestial Butterfly Effect."
Is anyone familiar with the story of Saul’s conversion in Acts 9? Saul had received a vision. In his vision, Christ spoke to him, and caused him to go blind. There is another important person in that story, one that is often forgotten. His name was Ananias. Ananias received a vision that Saul, the notorious killer of Christians, would need his help in converting to a life of following Christ. Ananias was concerned that if he went to Saul, Saul would have him killed. But, Ananias was obedient and went to Saul, laid his hands on Saul’s head and using the priesthood, caused him to “receive sight and be filled with the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 9:17) Saul was healed, and immediately baptized. Within a few days he began preaching the gospel of Christ. Saul soon became Paul, an Apostle of Christ. Heavenly Father helped Paul to teach the world. But first, he helped Ananias to teach Paul. One man, helping another, helped thousands even millions.
In 1963, Edward Lorenz presented a theory to the New York Academy of Science. Simply stated, his theory was that: A butterfly flapping its wings would set molecules of air in motion, which would move other molecules of air, each moving more molecules of air. Eventually this motion would be capable of starting a hurricane on the other side of the globe. Edward Lorenz was literally laughed off the stage of the conference. The idea was ridiculous they said. Preposterous, the stuff of science fiction. More than thirty years later, physics professors worldwide came to the conclusion that this “butterfly effect” was authentic, accurate, and viable. While the butterfly does not "cause" the hurricane in the sense of providing the energy for the hurricane, it does "cause" it in the sense that the flap of its wings is an essential part of the initial conditions resulting in a hurricane, and without that flap that particular hurricane could not have existed. Science has proven that the butterfly effect can engage with the first movement of any form of matter, even people. (Andy Andrews “The Butterfly Effect:How Your Life Matters.” )
So what does this butterfly effect mean to us? It means that our lives, our actions, our failures to act effects every other person on the planet. President Gordon B. Hinckley, in his talk entitled “Pillars of Truth“ in the January 1994 Ensign said; “While here, we have learning to gain, work to do, service to give. We are here with a marvelous inheritance, a divine endowment. How different this world would be if every person realized that all of his actions have eternal consequences. How much more satisfying our years may be if in our accumulation of knowledge, in our relationships with others, in our business affairs, in our courtship and marriage, and in our family rearing, we recognize that we form each day the stuff of which eternity is made. . .Sisters, life is forever. Live each day as if you were going to live eternally, for you surely shall.”
The decisions we make and the actions we take, have eternal consequences, a celestial butterfly effect, if you will. This principle is also taught in Matthew 18:18, “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” This means that every single one of us is important. Every one of our lives has meaning, each of us a purpose, and all of us can be a force for good.
President Hinckley, in his talk, give us seven pillars of truth. “Each is an eternal verity, proved out of the experience of generations, bearing the endorsement of the word of the Lord.” By learning and living these pillars of truth, we can each cause a hurricane of righteousness. President Hinckley says “...Sisters, you will never be happy if you go through life thinking only of yourself. Get lost in the best cause in the world—the cause of the Lord. The work of the quorums, and of the auxiliary organizations, temple work, welfare service work, missionary work. You will bless your own life as you bless the lives of others.” The butterfly effect of goodness.
1. God Lives, and the Door of Heaven Is Open. “As we go forward in our lives, let us never forget to pray. God lives. He is near. He is real. He is our Father. He is accessible to us. He is the author of eternal truth, the Master of the universe. The handle is ready, and the door can be opened to His abundance. ‘If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God.’ (James 1:5) ”
Imagine the good that could be done, if you every single day, got down on your knees and prayed for those around you. What if you implored Heavenly Father for every one else’s needs before your own? You might not ever know the result of such requests for another person, but think about the effect it would have on you. The love that would grow, the softening of your own heart, making it, in turn easier for you serve others.
Life Is Forever. “We are not chance creations in a universe of disorder. We lived before we were born. We were God’s sons and daughters who shouted for joy. We knew our Father; He planned our future. We graduated from that life and matriculated in this. The statement is simple; the implications are profound. Life is a mission, not just the sputtering of a candle between a chance lighting and a gust of wind that blows it out forever.”
What would you change if you knew that each action you took lasted forever? Would you make an extra effort to be a little kinder, to try a little harder, to do a little more? Don’t waste time worrying about what exactly you should be doing in this life. Decide to do something, and do it! Elder John H. Groberg of the First Quorum of the Seventy said, “In our quest to discover our callings in life, the first and most fundamental thing we must do is to follow the Savior. Learn of him. Learn what he did, then do it. The things that he did, even though they occurred nearly 2,000 years ago, have universal application. (There’s that butterfly effect again!) Now this may seem pretty general to you, but it is the basis of all else. You will have to do this by personally studying the scriptures and his life and personally becoming acquainted with him.”
The Kingdom of God Is Here. “We are citizens in the greatest kingdom on earth—a kingdom not directed by the wisdom of men but led by the Lord Jesus Christ. Its presence is real. Its destiny is certain. . . Sisters, where will you find better association than in the Relief Society, whose motto is ‘Charity Never Faileth’ and whose mission is to bless the poor and bind up the wounds of the sick and the lonely, to bring gladness into the hearts of the women of the Church, and to increase their skill as homemakers?Active membership in the Church is as an anchor in the storms of life we all face. The kingdom is here. Cling to this truth.”
It may seem that you are asked to do more than your share. You may feel like you are working harder than every one else. Good! How can you learn and grow and be a force for good if you are sitting in your comfort zone, just letting things happen instead of making them happen? Do you want to get caught in the wake of someone else’s storm, or do you want to be your own force of nature? My grandmother has two scriptures she loved to quote at us when we were not feeling like we wanted to help “build up the Kingdom.” Doctrine and Covenants 42:42. “Thou shalt not be aidle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bbread nor wear the garments of the claborer”. and 1 Corinthians 3:8 “Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own areward according to his own labour.”
The Family Is Divine. “I am satisfied that nothing will assure greater success in the hazardous undertaking of parenthood than a program of family life that comes from the marvelous teaching of the gospel. . . In such a home, parents are loved and not dreaded; they are appreciated and not feared. And children are regarded as gifts of the Lord, to be cared for, nurtured, encouraged, and directed. There may be an occasional disagreement; there may be small quarrels. But if there is prayer in the family, and love, and consideration, there will be a residue of affection that will bind forever and a loyalty that will always guide.”
I think every one of us knows the widespread effect one harsh word, one hurt feeling, or one little quarrel can have on our families. I also believe that we have all witnessed miracles occur in our own homes through the kind actions and deeds we offer one another.
Obedience Is Better Than Sacrifice. “I am going to apply one aspect only of this great truth and will do so to the Lord’s counsel and promise in matters of health, the Word of Wisdom. I remember a report from the American Medical Association to the effect that heavy smokers die seven years before they would if they did not smoke. Seven years of life. That’s as long as many persons spend in high school and college. Seven years—time enough to become a doctor, an architect, an engineer, a lawyer. Seven years in which to enjoy the sunrise and the sunset, the hills and the valleys, the lakes and the seas, the love of our children, the friendship of wonderful people we may know. What a statistical promise confirming the word of the Lord that the destroying angel shall pass by those who walk in obedience and will not slay them. The Lord has given us a key to health and happiness—and has given it with a promise. It is a pillar of eternal wisdom. It is better to obey than to rationalize and sacrifice.”
We can imagine the long reaching effects of this concept. We as members of the Church are known around the world for our willingness to “sacrifice” the use of tobacco and caffeine. But what truly is remarkable to people is when we don’t act as if it is a sacrifice. If I complain to my friends daily about the fact that I can’t have a cup of coffee, they will have a much less positive view of the word of wisdom, the church, and the gospel of Christ. But if I am happy to be obedient, the eternal consequences of that obedience include not only better health, but a more positive view of the church for everyone I know, and everyone they know.
The Lord Is Bound. “May I suggest that in my judgment, no person who is a member of this church and has taken upon himself the covenants incident to membership can reasonably expect the blessings of the Lord upon his efforts unless being willing to bear his share of the burden of the Lord’s kingdom. Pay your tithes that you may be worthy of the Lord’s blessings. I will not promise that you will become wealthy. But I bear testimony that the Lord does reward generously in one way or another those who keep His commandments. And I assure you that no investment counselor to whom you may go can promise you as the Lord has promised: ‘I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise.’ (D&C 82:10.) The Lord honors His covenants.”
What kind of effect do we have when we consider ourselves bound by our covenants? Does not living up to our covenants have some “eternal consequences,” as President Hinckley put it?
He That Loseth His Life Shall Find It. “While riding on an airplane, I picked up a magazine and read a description of the moral bankruptcy into which the world is falling. The author gave as the dominant reason for this decay an attitude that is characterized by the question, What’s in it for me? The Savior put it this way: ‘He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.’ ” (Matt. 10:39.)
If you live your life only to help yourself get ahead, you are lost. You have missed the point. If you do all you can to build up the Kingdom of God, to live as He does, to be a good example of a disciple of Christ, you will never be forgotten. The world may not know your name, no one may remember you 10, 100, 1,000 years from now, but something of you will live forever. Everything you do matters. Every action you take, not just to you, or your family, or your business, or your hometown, or your country. Everything you do matters to all of us forever. There are eternal consequences, good and bad. You are important. You make a difference.
To illustrate these Eternal Consequences I want to tell you about Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain. Does anyone know who he is? Does anyone know why his name is important?
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was a 34 year old school teacher. But on July 2,1863 Chamberlain did made one decision, that is significant to each one of us in this room, every member of our ward, every one who lives in the United States, every single person on the planet.
Chamberlain was a Colonel in the Union Army. He commanded a group of approximately one thousand men, who stood on the front lines in a battle outside a little town known as Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Chamberlain had been ordered to hold the line. He couldn’t withdraw, even though they were woefully outnumbered. The Confederate Army charged his men numerous times. In the fourth assault, Chamberlain was hit by a single bullet and knocked to the ground from the force of the shot. The bullet hit his belt buckle. He miraculously was not wounded. The rebels almost made it through the line. On the fifth charge, the Union Army did not have time to reload as the rebels tried to over take them. They had to resort to swinging their rifles at each other, and flat out brawling with fists. After the five attacks, the Union was down to eighty men left in the battle. The Confederates on the other hand had been reinforced, and were charging again with double their original numbers. As if that weren’t bad enough, Colonel Chamberlain learned that his men were down to 1 or 2 bullets each. They had no ammunition, no troops, and no chance. Chamberlain is quoted as saying “I had, deep within me, the inability to do nothing. When I am faced with the choice of doing nothing or doing something, I will always choose to act.” He made a split second decision. The one that changed the course of history. He ordered his men to “fix bayonets and charge!” All eighty of them, against four hundred Confederate soldiers, culminating in a dramatic downhill bayonet charge that is one of the most well-known actions at Gettysburg and in the Civil War. When the Confederate troops saw this, many of them threw down their loaded weapons, turned and ran. It’s an amazing story of courage and determination. But, here’s what we need to consider. Historians have determined that had Chamberlain not charged that day, the south would have won the battle of Gettysburg. Had the rebels won at Gettysburg, they undoubtedly would have won the Civil war. If that had happened, we would now be split into a territorially fragmented continent resembling Europe. North America would likely be split into nine to thirteen separate countries! Which means, when Hitler swept across Europe, there would not have existed a United States to withstand him. When Hirohito invaded the islands of the South Pacific, there would not have been a country big enough, strong enough, populous enough, or wealthy enough to fight and win two wars on two fronts at the same time. The United States of America, and the world exists, as it does today because of one 34 year old schoolteacher and one decision he made 200 years ago. Colonel Joshua Chamberlain is an example of the butterfly effect. One man who made one move that certainly had eternal consequences that affect us still today. Each of us is no less an example of the butterfly effect. Everything we do matters. Each of our lives has purpose, meaning. How far forward would we need to go in our lives to show the difference each of us can make? (Story courtesy of “The Butterfly Effect: How Your Life Matters” By Andy Andrews.) There are generations of spirits not yet born, whose lives will be shaped, whose futures will be affected by the actions you take today, and each day forward. You have been created in God’s image. You have been sent here in order that you might make a difference. Like President Hinckley said “...life is forever. Live each day as if you were going to live eternally, for you surely shall.”
It is my testimony that the Lord has given us each many gifts and talents to use while here on earth. I know that these gifts can be used to make a difference and to do good. I know that the Lord loves each of us and wants us to be happy. I know that the church is true because it is the true gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that there is a true prophet on the earth and that he also loves each of us. I am thankful to be a member of the church and to have the gospel to guide me. I know that families can be together forever and that each of our actions has eternal consequences.
I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Dede B.
Is anyone familiar with the story of Saul’s conversion in Acts 9? Saul had received a vision. In his vision, Christ spoke to him, and caused him to go blind. There is another important person in that story, one that is often forgotten. His name was Ananias. Ananias received a vision that Saul, the notorious killer of Christians, would need his help in converting to a life of following Christ. Ananias was concerned that if he went to Saul, Saul would have him killed. But, Ananias was obedient and went to Saul, laid his hands on Saul’s head and using the priesthood, caused him to “receive sight and be filled with the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 9:17) Saul was healed, and immediately baptized. Within a few days he began preaching the gospel of Christ. Saul soon became Paul, an Apostle of Christ. Heavenly Father helped Paul to teach the world. But first, he helped Ananias to teach Paul. One man, helping another, helped thousands even millions.
In 1963, Edward Lorenz presented a theory to the New York Academy of Science. Simply stated, his theory was that: A butterfly flapping its wings would set molecules of air in motion, which would move other molecules of air, each moving more molecules of air. Eventually this motion would be capable of starting a hurricane on the other side of the globe. Edward Lorenz was literally laughed off the stage of the conference. The idea was ridiculous they said. Preposterous, the stuff of science fiction. More than thirty years later, physics professors worldwide came to the conclusion that this “butterfly effect” was authentic, accurate, and viable. While the butterfly does not "cause" the hurricane in the sense of providing the energy for the hurricane, it does "cause" it in the sense that the flap of its wings is an essential part of the initial conditions resulting in a hurricane, and without that flap that particular hurricane could not have existed. Science has proven that the butterfly effect can engage with the first movement of any form of matter, even people. (Andy Andrews “The Butterfly Effect:How Your Life Matters.” )
So what does this butterfly effect mean to us? It means that our lives, our actions, our failures to act effects every other person on the planet. President Gordon B. Hinckley, in his talk entitled “Pillars of Truth“ in the January 1994 Ensign said; “While here, we have learning to gain, work to do, service to give. We are here with a marvelous inheritance, a divine endowment. How different this world would be if every person realized that all of his actions have eternal consequences. How much more satisfying our years may be if in our accumulation of knowledge, in our relationships with others, in our business affairs, in our courtship and marriage, and in our family rearing, we recognize that we form each day the stuff of which eternity is made. . .Sisters, life is forever. Live each day as if you were going to live eternally, for you surely shall.”
The decisions we make and the actions we take, have eternal consequences, a celestial butterfly effect, if you will. This principle is also taught in Matthew 18:18, “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” This means that every single one of us is important. Every one of our lives has meaning, each of us a purpose, and all of us can be a force for good.
President Hinckley, in his talk, give us seven pillars of truth. “Each is an eternal verity, proved out of the experience of generations, bearing the endorsement of the word of the Lord.” By learning and living these pillars of truth, we can each cause a hurricane of righteousness. President Hinckley says “...Sisters, you will never be happy if you go through life thinking only of yourself. Get lost in the best cause in the world—the cause of the Lord. The work of the quorums, and of the auxiliary organizations, temple work, welfare service work, missionary work. You will bless your own life as you bless the lives of others.” The butterfly effect of goodness.
1. God Lives, and the Door of Heaven Is Open. “As we go forward in our lives, let us never forget to pray. God lives. He is near. He is real. He is our Father. He is accessible to us. He is the author of eternal truth, the Master of the universe. The handle is ready, and the door can be opened to His abundance. ‘If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God.’ (James 1:5) ”
Imagine the good that could be done, if you every single day, got down on your knees and prayed for those around you. What if you implored Heavenly Father for every one else’s needs before your own? You might not ever know the result of such requests for another person, but think about the effect it would have on you. The love that would grow, the softening of your own heart, making it, in turn easier for you serve others.
Life Is Forever. “We are not chance creations in a universe of disorder. We lived before we were born. We were God’s sons and daughters who shouted for joy. We knew our Father; He planned our future. We graduated from that life and matriculated in this. The statement is simple; the implications are profound. Life is a mission, not just the sputtering of a candle between a chance lighting and a gust of wind that blows it out forever.”
What would you change if you knew that each action you took lasted forever? Would you make an extra effort to be a little kinder, to try a little harder, to do a little more? Don’t waste time worrying about what exactly you should be doing in this life. Decide to do something, and do it! Elder John H. Groberg of the First Quorum of the Seventy said, “In our quest to discover our callings in life, the first and most fundamental thing we must do is to follow the Savior. Learn of him. Learn what he did, then do it. The things that he did, even though they occurred nearly 2,000 years ago, have universal application. (There’s that butterfly effect again!) Now this may seem pretty general to you, but it is the basis of all else. You will have to do this by personally studying the scriptures and his life and personally becoming acquainted with him.”
The Kingdom of God Is Here. “We are citizens in the greatest kingdom on earth—a kingdom not directed by the wisdom of men but led by the Lord Jesus Christ. Its presence is real. Its destiny is certain. . . Sisters, where will you find better association than in the Relief Society, whose motto is ‘Charity Never Faileth’ and whose mission is to bless the poor and bind up the wounds of the sick and the lonely, to bring gladness into the hearts of the women of the Church, and to increase their skill as homemakers?Active membership in the Church is as an anchor in the storms of life we all face. The kingdom is here. Cling to this truth.”
It may seem that you are asked to do more than your share. You may feel like you are working harder than every one else. Good! How can you learn and grow and be a force for good if you are sitting in your comfort zone, just letting things happen instead of making them happen? Do you want to get caught in the wake of someone else’s storm, or do you want to be your own force of nature? My grandmother has two scriptures she loved to quote at us when we were not feeling like we wanted to help “build up the Kingdom.” Doctrine and Covenants 42:42. “Thou shalt not be aidle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bbread nor wear the garments of the claborer”. and 1 Corinthians 3:8 “Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own areward according to his own labour.”
The Family Is Divine. “I am satisfied that nothing will assure greater success in the hazardous undertaking of parenthood than a program of family life that comes from the marvelous teaching of the gospel. . . In such a home, parents are loved and not dreaded; they are appreciated and not feared. And children are regarded as gifts of the Lord, to be cared for, nurtured, encouraged, and directed. There may be an occasional disagreement; there may be small quarrels. But if there is prayer in the family, and love, and consideration, there will be a residue of affection that will bind forever and a loyalty that will always guide.”
I think every one of us knows the widespread effect one harsh word, one hurt feeling, or one little quarrel can have on our families. I also believe that we have all witnessed miracles occur in our own homes through the kind actions and deeds we offer one another.
Obedience Is Better Than Sacrifice. “I am going to apply one aspect only of this great truth and will do so to the Lord’s counsel and promise in matters of health, the Word of Wisdom. I remember a report from the American Medical Association to the effect that heavy smokers die seven years before they would if they did not smoke. Seven years of life. That’s as long as many persons spend in high school and college. Seven years—time enough to become a doctor, an architect, an engineer, a lawyer. Seven years in which to enjoy the sunrise and the sunset, the hills and the valleys, the lakes and the seas, the love of our children, the friendship of wonderful people we may know. What a statistical promise confirming the word of the Lord that the destroying angel shall pass by those who walk in obedience and will not slay them. The Lord has given us a key to health and happiness—and has given it with a promise. It is a pillar of eternal wisdom. It is better to obey than to rationalize and sacrifice.”
We can imagine the long reaching effects of this concept. We as members of the Church are known around the world for our willingness to “sacrifice” the use of tobacco and caffeine. But what truly is remarkable to people is when we don’t act as if it is a sacrifice. If I complain to my friends daily about the fact that I can’t have a cup of coffee, they will have a much less positive view of the word of wisdom, the church, and the gospel of Christ. But if I am happy to be obedient, the eternal consequences of that obedience include not only better health, but a more positive view of the church for everyone I know, and everyone they know.
The Lord Is Bound. “May I suggest that in my judgment, no person who is a member of this church and has taken upon himself the covenants incident to membership can reasonably expect the blessings of the Lord upon his efforts unless being willing to bear his share of the burden of the Lord’s kingdom. Pay your tithes that you may be worthy of the Lord’s blessings. I will not promise that you will become wealthy. But I bear testimony that the Lord does reward generously in one way or another those who keep His commandments. And I assure you that no investment counselor to whom you may go can promise you as the Lord has promised: ‘I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise.’ (D&C 82:10.) The Lord honors His covenants.”
What kind of effect do we have when we consider ourselves bound by our covenants? Does not living up to our covenants have some “eternal consequences,” as President Hinckley put it?
He That Loseth His Life Shall Find It. “While riding on an airplane, I picked up a magazine and read a description of the moral bankruptcy into which the world is falling. The author gave as the dominant reason for this decay an attitude that is characterized by the question, What’s in it for me? The Savior put it this way: ‘He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.’ ” (Matt. 10:39.)
If you live your life only to help yourself get ahead, you are lost. You have missed the point. If you do all you can to build up the Kingdom of God, to live as He does, to be a good example of a disciple of Christ, you will never be forgotten. The world may not know your name, no one may remember you 10, 100, 1,000 years from now, but something of you will live forever. Everything you do matters. Every action you take, not just to you, or your family, or your business, or your hometown, or your country. Everything you do matters to all of us forever. There are eternal consequences, good and bad. You are important. You make a difference.
To illustrate these Eternal Consequences I want to tell you about Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain. Does anyone know who he is? Does anyone know why his name is important?
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was a 34 year old school teacher. But on July 2,1863 Chamberlain did made one decision, that is significant to each one of us in this room, every member of our ward, every one who lives in the United States, every single person on the planet.
Chamberlain was a Colonel in the Union Army. He commanded a group of approximately one thousand men, who stood on the front lines in a battle outside a little town known as Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Chamberlain had been ordered to hold the line. He couldn’t withdraw, even though they were woefully outnumbered. The Confederate Army charged his men numerous times. In the fourth assault, Chamberlain was hit by a single bullet and knocked to the ground from the force of the shot. The bullet hit his belt buckle. He miraculously was not wounded. The rebels almost made it through the line. On the fifth charge, the Union Army did not have time to reload as the rebels tried to over take them. They had to resort to swinging their rifles at each other, and flat out brawling with fists. After the five attacks, the Union was down to eighty men left in the battle. The Confederates on the other hand had been reinforced, and were charging again with double their original numbers. As if that weren’t bad enough, Colonel Chamberlain learned that his men were down to 1 or 2 bullets each. They had no ammunition, no troops, and no chance. Chamberlain is quoted as saying “I had, deep within me, the inability to do nothing. When I am faced with the choice of doing nothing or doing something, I will always choose to act.” He made a split second decision. The one that changed the course of history. He ordered his men to “fix bayonets and charge!” All eighty of them, against four hundred Confederate soldiers, culminating in a dramatic downhill bayonet charge that is one of the most well-known actions at Gettysburg and in the Civil War. When the Confederate troops saw this, many of them threw down their loaded weapons, turned and ran. It’s an amazing story of courage and determination. But, here’s what we need to consider. Historians have determined that had Chamberlain not charged that day, the south would have won the battle of Gettysburg. Had the rebels won at Gettysburg, they undoubtedly would have won the Civil war. If that had happened, we would now be split into a territorially fragmented continent resembling Europe. North America would likely be split into nine to thirteen separate countries! Which means, when Hitler swept across Europe, there would not have existed a United States to withstand him. When Hirohito invaded the islands of the South Pacific, there would not have been a country big enough, strong enough, populous enough, or wealthy enough to fight and win two wars on two fronts at the same time. The United States of America, and the world exists, as it does today because of one 34 year old schoolteacher and one decision he made 200 years ago. Colonel Joshua Chamberlain is an example of the butterfly effect. One man who made one move that certainly had eternal consequences that affect us still today. Each of us is no less an example of the butterfly effect. Everything we do matters. Each of our lives has purpose, meaning. How far forward would we need to go in our lives to show the difference each of us can make? (Story courtesy of “The Butterfly Effect: How Your Life Matters” By Andy Andrews.) There are generations of spirits not yet born, whose lives will be shaped, whose futures will be affected by the actions you take today, and each day forward. You have been created in God’s image. You have been sent here in order that you might make a difference. Like President Hinckley said “...life is forever. Live each day as if you were going to live eternally, for you surely shall.”
It is my testimony that the Lord has given us each many gifts and talents to use while here on earth. I know that these gifts can be used to make a difference and to do good. I know that the Lord loves each of us and wants us to be happy. I know that the church is true because it is the true gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that there is a true prophet on the earth and that he also loves each of us. I am thankful to be a member of the church and to have the gospel to guide me. I know that families can be together forever and that each of our actions has eternal consequences.
I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Dede B.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
RS Lesson 29 Aug 2010
Our meeting today was combined with the priesthood, under the direction of the Bishop. The Bishop gave a presentation on "How we can learn, grow together, and progress as a ward family."
Bishop Bonham first reminded us of the challenge Bishop Heintz issued a few years ago for every family to read the Book of Mormon. The Bishop then asked us to recall the spirit that was felt, and the good that came to each of us by following the Bishop's council. After witnessing miracles occur in the ward because of the priesthood and the faith of our ward, the Bishop prayed to know what we can now do to progress as a ward.
The Bishop said that after he'd received his answer, it became obvious to him in the hymns, talks, and lessons in the past few weeks. They have all had a common theme of obedience, repentance, and putting our pride aside. With that in mind, the Bishop issued a new challenge, with the promise that heeding this council will "lead to great blessings and exciting times for us as a ward."
The challenge the Bishop issued is two fold. The first part being for each family/individual to study the Book of Mormon, as well as "Preach My Gospel." The point was made that there is a difference between "studying" and "reading." The Bishop counseled us to find something in these books that is appropriate for our families and use that to help us know how to help each other grow and progress so that we can each better serve the Lord, as well as strengthen our ward.
We are not to sit back or hide from the work or responsibilities. We need to reach out- we can and have done so many good works for so many people. Each of us, no matter our circumstances or limitations, has made covenants to serve. We do have a significant number of members in our ward, as well as non members living in our boundaries, struggling with health issues, financial issues, spiritual issues, etc. Next week will be a ward fast for those people. The Bishop admonished us to use the priesthood daily. Offer blessings to those you home teach, and even non members as appropriate. The Lord would have us be diligent in our callings, in our responsibilities, and to bring the priesthood into the lives of all of those around us.
The second part of the challenge is for each family/individual to have the missionaries into their home each month. We have been blessed to have missionaries assigned to our ward. Having them in your home can and will bring great peace, as well as the Spirit. They can come visit you and bring a message. You don't have to feed them, though there are certainly numerous opportunities to do so. The Bishop promised each of us that if we have the missionaries in our homes, they will bring with them something that the Lord has sent them to give you. You don't need to worry about your home not being clean enough, your food not being "good" enough, or feeling uncomfortable with the individual missionaries. Bro. Romney from the Forks ward gave several ideas on ways to help make sure the missionaries can get into each home, as well as further missionary work in the ward boundaries.
1. Give/arrange rides
2. Invite others into your home with the missionaries. Single sisters, those who live a great distance from town, etc.
3. Arrange for a priesthood holder or extra sisters to be in the home of a single sister with the Elders.
4. Make yourself available to teach with the Elders.
5. Become familiar with the lessons so that you will be comfortable being asked to serve.
6. Diligence- work your heart out.
Bro. Romney made a great statement that the "great joy (of helping bring others to the gospel) never gets old."
We need to be open to working with whomever the Lord places in our path. This includes missionaries you don't particularly like, non members, ward members you might disagree with, etc.
The Bishop closed by expressing his love and appreciation for each of us, and by saying that he KNOWS that this is the Church of Jesus Christ, and we better serve Him when we serve and love each other.
Put your shoulder to the wheel! Dede B.
(On a side note, that song always makes me smile because, as a child I HONESTLY thought the chorus went " We all have work, come on you jerk... =) )
Bishop Bonham first reminded us of the challenge Bishop Heintz issued a few years ago for every family to read the Book of Mormon. The Bishop then asked us to recall the spirit that was felt, and the good that came to each of us by following the Bishop's council. After witnessing miracles occur in the ward because of the priesthood and the faith of our ward, the Bishop prayed to know what we can now do to progress as a ward.
The Bishop said that after he'd received his answer, it became obvious to him in the hymns, talks, and lessons in the past few weeks. They have all had a common theme of obedience, repentance, and putting our pride aside. With that in mind, the Bishop issued a new challenge, with the promise that heeding this council will "lead to great blessings and exciting times for us as a ward."
The challenge the Bishop issued is two fold. The first part being for each family/individual to study the Book of Mormon, as well as "Preach My Gospel." The point was made that there is a difference between "studying" and "reading." The Bishop counseled us to find something in these books that is appropriate for our families and use that to help us know how to help each other grow and progress so that we can each better serve the Lord, as well as strengthen our ward.
We are not to sit back or hide from the work or responsibilities. We need to reach out- we can and have done so many good works for so many people. Each of us, no matter our circumstances or limitations, has made covenants to serve. We do have a significant number of members in our ward, as well as non members living in our boundaries, struggling with health issues, financial issues, spiritual issues, etc. Next week will be a ward fast for those people. The Bishop admonished us to use the priesthood daily. Offer blessings to those you home teach, and even non members as appropriate. The Lord would have us be diligent in our callings, in our responsibilities, and to bring the priesthood into the lives of all of those around us.
The second part of the challenge is for each family/individual to have the missionaries into their home each month. We have been blessed to have missionaries assigned to our ward. Having them in your home can and will bring great peace, as well as the Spirit. They can come visit you and bring a message. You don't have to feed them, though there are certainly numerous opportunities to do so. The Bishop promised each of us that if we have the missionaries in our homes, they will bring with them something that the Lord has sent them to give you. You don't need to worry about your home not being clean enough, your food not being "good" enough, or feeling uncomfortable with the individual missionaries. Bro. Romney from the Forks ward gave several ideas on ways to help make sure the missionaries can get into each home, as well as further missionary work in the ward boundaries.
1. Give/arrange rides
2. Invite others into your home with the missionaries. Single sisters, those who live a great distance from town, etc.
3. Arrange for a priesthood holder or extra sisters to be in the home of a single sister with the Elders.
4. Make yourself available to teach with the Elders.
5. Become familiar with the lessons so that you will be comfortable being asked to serve.
6. Diligence- work your heart out.
Bro. Romney made a great statement that the "great joy (of helping bring others to the gospel) never gets old."
We need to be open to working with whomever the Lord places in our path. This includes missionaries you don't particularly like, non members, ward members you might disagree with, etc.
The Bishop closed by expressing his love and appreciation for each of us, and by saying that he KNOWS that this is the Church of Jesus Christ, and we better serve Him when we serve and love each other.
Put your shoulder to the wheel! Dede B.
(On a side note, that song always makes me smile because, as a child I HONESTLY thought the chorus went " We all have work, come on you jerk... =) )
Sunday, August 22, 2010
RS Lesson 22 Aug 2010
Our lesson was taught by Sis. Carol Heintz, and was based on a talk by Elder Robert D. Hales, entitled "Our Duty to God: The Mission of Parents and Leaders to the Rising Generation."
The talk starts off by addressing and "encourage parents and all who are called to lead and serve the youth of this world. The Lord revealed to Joseph Smith that we have “an imperative duty that we owe to all the rising generation” (D&C 123:11)."
For all of us, doing our duty to God as parents and leaders begins with leading by example—consistently and diligently living gospel principles at home. This takes daily determination and diligence. For youth, there is no substitute for seeing the gospel lived in our daily lives. The stripling warriors did not have to wonder what their parents believed. They said, “We do not doubt our mothers knew it” (see Alma 56:47–48). Do our children know what we know? For parents, as you drive or walk children to school or their various activities, do you use the time to talk with them about their hopes and dreams and fears and joys? Do you take the time to have them take the earplugs from their MP3 players and all the other devices so that they can hear you and feel of your love? "The more I live, the more I recognize that the teaching moments in my youth, especially those provided by my parents, have shaped my life and made me who I am."
Sis. Heintz told a story about her brother, who at age 12, wanted a rifle in the worst way. When he finally received one, it was not the one he wanted. As an adult, he realized that what was important was not the gift itself, it was the rite of passage his Father was giving him. Another brother told of fishing with Dad. Usually dad would go off one way, leaving him to find his own fishing spot. Once, they were out on a boat, making it impossible for them to go off in separate directions. They sat in the boat all afternoon, and he said that that day was the best time he ever had with his Dad. He was able to talk and be heard, learn and get to know Dad as a person.
Elder Hales continues,stating: "For our interactions with youth to truly touch their hearts, we have to pay attention to them just as we would pay attention to a trusted adult colleague or close friend. Most important is asking them questions, letting them talk, and then being willing to listen—yes, listen and listen some more—even hearken with spiritual ears! Several years ago I was reading the newspaper when one of my young grandsons snuggled up to me. As I read, I was delighted to hear his sweet voice chattering on in the background. Imagine my surprise when, a few moments later, he pushed himself between me and the paper. Taking my face in his hands and pressing his nose up to mine, he asked, “Grandpa! Are you in there?”
Mother, Father, are you in there? Grandpa, Grandma, are you there? Being there means understanding the hearts of our youth and connecting with them. And connecting with them means not just conversing with them but doing things with them too."
"Recently I heard a mother recount how she had helped her first three daughters complete their Personal Progress requirements by doing what was expected—staying informed and signing off projects. Then she tenderly explained, tears flowing down her cheek, “Recently I have been working with my fourth daughter by actually doing her projects with her. It has made all the difference in our lives and our relationship. But oh, what sadness I feel when I realize what I lost by not doing this with my other three daughters.” The saddest words of tongue and pen are those that say, “It might have been!”
Adult members of the Church should understand that Personal Progress and Duty to God requirements are not just lengthy lists of items to check off. They are personal goals set by each young man and young woman to help them become worthy to receive temple ordinances, serve missions, enter into eternal marriage, and enjoy exaltation. But let it be understood: for young men and young women to try to accomplish these goals alone would be a great loss and tragedy!
Fathers, mothers, and leaders of youth, we urge you to participate in Personal Progress and Duty to God with your children and with the youth. Not only will they grow; you will grow too. And just as importantly, you will grow together in a bond of faith and friendship that will allow you to strengthen each other and stay on the gospel path forever, to indeed be an eternal family."
"In these perilous times it is not enough for our youth to merely know. They must do. Wholehearted participation in ordinances, quorums and auxiliaries, inspired programs, and fortifying activities helps youth put on the whole armor of God. Will we help them put on that armor so they can withstand the fiery darts of the adversary? To truly choose the Lord’s way, they must know His way. And to truly know His way, we must teach and lead them to act, to participate, to do.
The greatest missionary work we will ever do will be in our homes. Our homes, quorums, and classes are part of the mission field. Our children and grandchildren are our most important investigators.
The greatest family history work that we will do will be within our own homes. It is the spiritual preparation of our children in the rising generation that will, through their obedience, ensure the eternal preservation and perpetuation of our families for the coming generations.
The greatest rescue, the greatest activation will be in our homes. If someone in your family is wandering in strange paths, you are a rescuer, engaged in the greatest rescue effort the Church has ever known. I testify from personal experience: There is no failure except in giving up. It is never too early or too late to begin. Do not worry about what has happened in the past. Pick up the phone. Write a note. Make a visit. Extend the invitation to come home. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed. Your child is Heavenly Father’s child. You are about His work. He has promised to gather His children, and He is with you.
The greatest faith we have will be within our homes as we remain strong in the trials and tribulations of parenthood. To a small group of mothers, President Monson recently said, “Sometimes we are too quick to judge the effect of our successes and failures.” May I add, don’t look at today’s trials as eternal. Heavenly Father does His work in the long term. “There is much which lieth in futurity,” the Prophet Joseph Smith said. “Therefore, . . . let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed” (D&C 123:15, 17)."
The Church profits from the youth. We need to have higher expectations of these choice spirits. A sister recounted a story of a visiting general authority, staying with the family of a stake president. The stake president and his wife gave up their bedroom, staying on the couch, so that the general authority could have the privacy and comfort of the master bedroom. In the middle of the night, the stake president's toddler son came into mom and dad's room to find a stranger in the bed. He said "you're not my dad." The general authority admitted that no, he wasn't The child asked "Did my father say it was ok for you to be here?" The general authority said yes, that the child's father had given his permission for him to be there. The child said "ok," and snuggled up to the general authority and went right back to sleep. The point of telling this story here is that; Our father has asked us to be there. For our own families, and for each other. By being there, by providing comfort and love to "even these the least of my brethren," we are better able to teach this rising generation by example. First we learn a gospel principle, then we act on it, then we have to share what we have learned. If we do this, we can be a force for good in every circumstance. Sis. Heintz summed it up beautifully by saying "A righteous person is righteous all their lives."
Are you "there" for your children? For the youth you work with, serve, and teach? For each other? Dede B.
The talk starts off by addressing and "encourage parents and all who are called to lead and serve the youth of this world. The Lord revealed to Joseph Smith that we have “an imperative duty that we owe to all the rising generation” (D&C 123:11)."
For all of us, doing our duty to God as parents and leaders begins with leading by example—consistently and diligently living gospel principles at home. This takes daily determination and diligence. For youth, there is no substitute for seeing the gospel lived in our daily lives. The stripling warriors did not have to wonder what their parents believed. They said, “We do not doubt our mothers knew it” (see Alma 56:47–48). Do our children know what we know? For parents, as you drive or walk children to school or their various activities, do you use the time to talk with them about their hopes and dreams and fears and joys? Do you take the time to have them take the earplugs from their MP3 players and all the other devices so that they can hear you and feel of your love? "The more I live, the more I recognize that the teaching moments in my youth, especially those provided by my parents, have shaped my life and made me who I am."
Sis. Heintz told a story about her brother, who at age 12, wanted a rifle in the worst way. When he finally received one, it was not the one he wanted. As an adult, he realized that what was important was not the gift itself, it was the rite of passage his Father was giving him. Another brother told of fishing with Dad. Usually dad would go off one way, leaving him to find his own fishing spot. Once, they were out on a boat, making it impossible for them to go off in separate directions. They sat in the boat all afternoon, and he said that that day was the best time he ever had with his Dad. He was able to talk and be heard, learn and get to know Dad as a person.
Elder Hales continues,stating: "For our interactions with youth to truly touch their hearts, we have to pay attention to them just as we would pay attention to a trusted adult colleague or close friend. Most important is asking them questions, letting them talk, and then being willing to listen—yes, listen and listen some more—even hearken with spiritual ears! Several years ago I was reading the newspaper when one of my young grandsons snuggled up to me. As I read, I was delighted to hear his sweet voice chattering on in the background. Imagine my surprise when, a few moments later, he pushed himself between me and the paper. Taking my face in his hands and pressing his nose up to mine, he asked, “Grandpa! Are you in there?”
Mother, Father, are you in there? Grandpa, Grandma, are you there? Being there means understanding the hearts of our youth and connecting with them. And connecting with them means not just conversing with them but doing things with them too."
"Recently I heard a mother recount how she had helped her first three daughters complete their Personal Progress requirements by doing what was expected—staying informed and signing off projects. Then she tenderly explained, tears flowing down her cheek, “Recently I have been working with my fourth daughter by actually doing her projects with her. It has made all the difference in our lives and our relationship. But oh, what sadness I feel when I realize what I lost by not doing this with my other three daughters.” The saddest words of tongue and pen are those that say, “It might have been!”
Adult members of the Church should understand that Personal Progress and Duty to God requirements are not just lengthy lists of items to check off. They are personal goals set by each young man and young woman to help them become worthy to receive temple ordinances, serve missions, enter into eternal marriage, and enjoy exaltation. But let it be understood: for young men and young women to try to accomplish these goals alone would be a great loss and tragedy!
Fathers, mothers, and leaders of youth, we urge you to participate in Personal Progress and Duty to God with your children and with the youth. Not only will they grow; you will grow too. And just as importantly, you will grow together in a bond of faith and friendship that will allow you to strengthen each other and stay on the gospel path forever, to indeed be an eternal family."
"In these perilous times it is not enough for our youth to merely know. They must do. Wholehearted participation in ordinances, quorums and auxiliaries, inspired programs, and fortifying activities helps youth put on the whole armor of God. Will we help them put on that armor so they can withstand the fiery darts of the adversary? To truly choose the Lord’s way, they must know His way. And to truly know His way, we must teach and lead them to act, to participate, to do.
The greatest missionary work we will ever do will be in our homes. Our homes, quorums, and classes are part of the mission field. Our children and grandchildren are our most important investigators.
The greatest family history work that we will do will be within our own homes. It is the spiritual preparation of our children in the rising generation that will, through their obedience, ensure the eternal preservation and perpetuation of our families for the coming generations.
The greatest rescue, the greatest activation will be in our homes. If someone in your family is wandering in strange paths, you are a rescuer, engaged in the greatest rescue effort the Church has ever known. I testify from personal experience: There is no failure except in giving up. It is never too early or too late to begin. Do not worry about what has happened in the past. Pick up the phone. Write a note. Make a visit. Extend the invitation to come home. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed. Your child is Heavenly Father’s child. You are about His work. He has promised to gather His children, and He is with you.
The greatest faith we have will be within our homes as we remain strong in the trials and tribulations of parenthood. To a small group of mothers, President Monson recently said, “Sometimes we are too quick to judge the effect of our successes and failures.” May I add, don’t look at today’s trials as eternal. Heavenly Father does His work in the long term. “There is much which lieth in futurity,” the Prophet Joseph Smith said. “Therefore, . . . let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed” (D&C 123:15, 17)."
The Church profits from the youth. We need to have higher expectations of these choice spirits. A sister recounted a story of a visiting general authority, staying with the family of a stake president. The stake president and his wife gave up their bedroom, staying on the couch, so that the general authority could have the privacy and comfort of the master bedroom. In the middle of the night, the stake president's toddler son came into mom and dad's room to find a stranger in the bed. He said "you're not my dad." The general authority admitted that no, he wasn't The child asked "Did my father say it was ok for you to be here?" The general authority said yes, that the child's father had given his permission for him to be there. The child said "ok," and snuggled up to the general authority and went right back to sleep. The point of telling this story here is that; Our father has asked us to be there. For our own families, and for each other. By being there, by providing comfort and love to "even these the least of my brethren," we are better able to teach this rising generation by example. First we learn a gospel principle, then we act on it, then we have to share what we have learned. If we do this, we can be a force for good in every circumstance. Sis. Heintz summed it up beautifully by saying "A righteous person is righteous all their lives."
Are you "there" for your children? For the youth you work with, serve, and teach? For each other? Dede B.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
RS Lesson 15 Aug 2010
Our lesson was taught by Sis. Nicky Newell, and was Ch.16; The Church of Jesus Christ in Former Times, from the Gospel Principles book.
When Christ established His church, He personally instructed and directed its leader. He, in turn, received His instructions from His Father in Heaven. Before Jesus ascended into heaven after His resurrection, He told His Apostles, "I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." (Matthew 28:20) He continued to guide them from heaven, He sent the Holy Ghost to be a comforter and revelator to them. The Holy Ghost doesn't just teach us He reminds us of what we already know. The organization of His church can seem confusing, and it probably was to those who followed Him while He was on earth. But, there is no reason for us to be confused, because in the scriptures we have it all there for us!
The ordinances and principles of the gospel cannot be administered and taught without the priesthood. The Father gave this authority to Jesus Christ, who in turn ordained His Apostles and gave them the power and authority of the priesthood. Heavenly Father's kingdom is a kingdom of order. To keep it in order men must be ordained, following proper priesthood authority. (John 15:16.) That there might be order in His church, Jesus gave greatest responsibility and authority to the Twelve Apostles. Jesus also ordained other officers with specific duties to perform. The Church of Jesus Christ was a carefully organized unit. The Bible does not tell us everything about the priesthood or the organization and government of the Church. However, enough of the Bible has been preserved to show the beauty and perfection of the Church organization. The New Testament shows that this Church organization was intended to continue. Jesus set a pattern for twelve Apostles to govern the Church. it seemed clear that the organization was to continue as He had established it.
The Apostles taught two basic principles: faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and repentance. After one has faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and as the Redeemer, and repents of their sins, they received two ordinances: baptism by immersion following the example of Christ, and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 19: 1-6) Jesus has provided for everyone to hear the gospel, whether on earth or after death. (See 1 Peter 3:18-20)
All faithful members of the church were and are entitled to receive gifts of the Spirit. These are given according to their individual needs, capacities, and assignments. Spiritual gifts always exist in the true Church of Jesus Christ. Jesus told His disciples that these signs or spiritual gifts always follow them that believe. (Mark 16:17-18)
Throughout history, evil people have tried to destroy the work of God. This happened while the Apostles were still alive and supervising the young, growing Church. Church members were killed for their beliefs. One by one, the Apostles were killed or otherwise taken from the earth. Because of wickedness and apostasy, the apostolic authority and priesthood were also taken from the earth. The organization that Jesus Christ had established no longer existed. The period of time when the true Church no longer existed on earth is called the Great Apostasy.
John the Revelator foresaw the time when the gospel would be restored. (Revelation 14:6)
What blessings have come to you because the Church of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth? Dede B.
When Christ established His church, He personally instructed and directed its leader. He, in turn, received His instructions from His Father in Heaven. Before Jesus ascended into heaven after His resurrection, He told His Apostles, "I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." (Matthew 28:20) He continued to guide them from heaven, He sent the Holy Ghost to be a comforter and revelator to them. The Holy Ghost doesn't just teach us He reminds us of what we already know. The organization of His church can seem confusing, and it probably was to those who followed Him while He was on earth. But, there is no reason for us to be confused, because in the scriptures we have it all there for us!
The ordinances and principles of the gospel cannot be administered and taught without the priesthood. The Father gave this authority to Jesus Christ, who in turn ordained His Apostles and gave them the power and authority of the priesthood. Heavenly Father's kingdom is a kingdom of order. To keep it in order men must be ordained, following proper priesthood authority. (John 15:16.) That there might be order in His church, Jesus gave greatest responsibility and authority to the Twelve Apostles. Jesus also ordained other officers with specific duties to perform. The Church of Jesus Christ was a carefully organized unit. The Bible does not tell us everything about the priesthood or the organization and government of the Church. However, enough of the Bible has been preserved to show the beauty and perfection of the Church organization. The New Testament shows that this Church organization was intended to continue. Jesus set a pattern for twelve Apostles to govern the Church. it seemed clear that the organization was to continue as He had established it.
The Apostles taught two basic principles: faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and repentance. After one has faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and as the Redeemer, and repents of their sins, they received two ordinances: baptism by immersion following the example of Christ, and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 19: 1-6) Jesus has provided for everyone to hear the gospel, whether on earth or after death. (See 1 Peter 3:18-20)
All faithful members of the church were and are entitled to receive gifts of the Spirit. These are given according to their individual needs, capacities, and assignments. Spiritual gifts always exist in the true Church of Jesus Christ. Jesus told His disciples that these signs or spiritual gifts always follow them that believe. (Mark 16:17-18)
Throughout history, evil people have tried to destroy the work of God. This happened while the Apostles were still alive and supervising the young, growing Church. Church members were killed for their beliefs. One by one, the Apostles were killed or otherwise taken from the earth. Because of wickedness and apostasy, the apostolic authority and priesthood were also taken from the earth. The organization that Jesus Christ had established no longer existed. The period of time when the true Church no longer existed on earth is called the Great Apostasy.
John the Revelator foresaw the time when the gospel would be restored. (Revelation 14:6)
What blessings have come to you because the Church of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth? Dede B.
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