Ok, first off, there are some changes in the RS presidency. The new presidency consists of; Sue Brown- President, Wendy Bonham- 1st Counselor, Dede Bessey- 2nd Counselor, and Margaret McAllister- Secretary.
Now, on to the lesson.
Our lesson, Ch. 15 of the Gospel Principles manual; entitled "The Lord's Covenant People" was taught by Sis. Susan Klippel.
Sis. Klippel started by saying that when she thinks of the word "Covenant" she is reminded of the story of Zoram. Zoram was Laban's servant. He made an oath to come with Nephi, Laman, and Lemuel into the wilderness, and to remain with them. On his word, Nephi, Laman, and Lemuel said their "fears did cease concerning him." (1 Nephi 4:37) Just because Zoram promised something, the brothers took him at his word, took him into their camp, accepted him into their family, and no longer feared him causing them to be discovered and therefore killed. That was quite the promise.
A covenant is a promise between man and God. It is a commitment. The new fourth verse of the Primary song "I Am A Child of God" says; "Celestial glory SHALL be mine, if I can but endure." Shall be mine, not could be mine, not might be mine, not "if the Lord keeps up His end." SHALL be mine, IF I can but endure. If there is a break in a covenant, we know from which side it had to have come. The Lord has told us that He "is bound when ye do what I say, but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise." (D&C 82:10) We make covenants because we want the blessings that are promised. We, as Latter-day Saints, have been given an understanding of what these blessings are. The manual says "From the beginning, the Lord has made covenants with His children on earth. When His people make covenants (or promises) with Him, they know what He expects of them and what blessings they may expect from Him.
We each make individual covenants with the Lord. These include; baptism, taking of the sacrament, temple ordinances. For each covenant we make, we are given a promise. For example, when we partake of the sacrament, we promise to take His name upon ourselves, to remember Him, to obey His commandments. We are promised that the Holy Spirit will be with us.
The Lord also made covenants with Abraham. Sis. Klippel asked us "Why did the Lord choose Abraham?" The answer that I liked the most was "because Abraham chose Him!" In the Abrahamic covenant, the Lord promised Abraham;
1. That he would have numberless descendants.
2. That all of these descendants would be entitled to receive the gospel.
3. The blessings of the priesthood.
4. All of the ordinances of exaltation.
5. That through these descendants ALL the families of the earth would be blessed.
6. This covenant would be established with all generations of Abraham's children.
Abraham, in return, promised the Lord that he would;
1. Be righteous.
2. Carry the gospel to all nations.
The blood descendants of Abraham are not the only people whom God calls His covenant people. Two groups of people are included in the covenant made with Abraham. 1) Abraham's righteous blood descendants and 2) those adopted into his lineage by accepting and living the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Abraham 2:10, and 2 Nephi 30:2)
This means that each of us, when we are baptized into the church enters into the covenant the Lord made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Along with the blessings we receive as the Lord's covenant people, we have great responsibilities. The opportunity to preach the gospel to all the world belongs only to the Lord's church and His covenant people.
The fulness of the gospel is called the new and everlasting covenant. It includes the covenants made at baptism, during the sacrament, in the temple, and at any other time. When we accept the new and everlasting covenant, we agree to repent, be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, receive our endowments, receive the covenant of marriage in the temple, and follow and obey Christ to the end of our lives. As we keep our covenants, our Heavenly Father promises us that we will receive exaltation in the celestial kingdom. (D&C 132:20-24) The greatness of that promise is hard for mortals to understand. The commandments He fives are for our benefit, and as we are faithful, we may forever share the blessings and beauties of heaven and earth. We may live in His presence and partake of His love, compassion, power, greatness, knowledge, wisdom, glory, and dominions.
What does being the Lord's covenant people have to do with us? What are our responsibilities today? Are you keeping the covenants you have made, so that "celestial glory SHALL be" yours? Dede B.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Sunday, August 1, 2010
RS Lesson 1 Aug 2010
Our lesson was taught by Sis. Sue Brown, and was based on the article "Those Who Are Different" By Elder Marlin K. Jensen Of the Seventy from the current issue of the Ensign.
Sis. Brown started with this parable; You look out across your big yard and decide you would like to have some fresh eggs. You build a coop, you purchase some chickens, you wait. When the eggs come, they are all different sizes and colors. You see the differences on the outside, but when you start cracking them you notice something. They are all basically the same inside.
Sis. Brown asked us to look at the people on each side of us. Can we find similarities between them and ourselves? We can obviously see differences.
Matthew 18:12 speaks of the Savior's teaching about the shepherd who had one sheep go astray. The Savior asks “Doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?” Elder Jensen says "As a priesthood leader, I had always thought of myself for many years as the shepherd—the one out searching for the lost sheep. But in a moment of reflection, it came to me that in some way or another we are all that one lost sheep. We all have our failings, and our lives vary in some ways from the ideal. We are all different! This is a humbling but helpful recognition." Have you ever felt like a lost sheep?
Sis. Brown said that there are several reasons we might feel like a lost sheep, or even a black sheep. She discussed a few of those with us.
1. Unfulfilled expectations my exist.
We are private about those things we struggle with. We might think that everyone else can see these things, or that everyone knows our shortcomings, but in truth, we generally look for the good in each other and what you might consider your shortcoming may be what endears you to me, or I might not have even noticed it at all! Sharing these things might help others to grow. We all have that in common- we can learn from each other and buoy each other up. Also, if we turn our trials over to the Savior, he can turn them into a lesson. Matthew 5:48 says "Be ye therefore perfect," not "go and try to have a good day." The Savior doesn't lower his expectations based on our personal struggles and challenges. He orders us to be as perfect as we can.
2. Having to keep all the commandments in order to receive spiritual gifts seems impossible. D&C 46:9 says
"For verily I say unto you, they are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and him that seeketh so to do; that all may be benefited that seek or that ask of me..."
Elder Jensen says; "It is also helpful to remember that in teaching the ideal, the Savior recognized that the ideal isn’t always immediately attainable. In speaking of spiritual gifts—those wonderful endowments of the Holy Ghost—the Savior said, “They are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments.” Having to keep all the commandments in order to enjoy spiritual gifts seems an impossibly high standard, but thankfully the Savior adds that spiritual gifts are also given for the benefit of “him that seeketh so to do” (D&C 46:9; emphasis added). Seeking to keep all the commandments—even if we sometimes fall short of the ideal—is something within the power of each of us and is acceptable to our Heavenly Father."
Our spiritual gifts may be identical to those around us, but they manifest differently because WE are different.
It is not WHAT you do when you interact with those that are different from you that matters. It is what you are willing to do. It is that you are willing to act as a steward for our Heavenly Father. The person you are interacting with may or may not remember the act, but they will remember what they were loved by God's servant.
It is ok to ask for help. People need to be needed. We all need the opportunities to grow that are given through service. Especially in service to those who may be difficult to serve because of their differences. We need to follow the example of service of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who "... doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world; for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw call men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation." (2 Nephi 26:24) The atonement was voluntary, so that He could know our infirmities and overcome each of our challenges.
He knows our "yolks." He knows us and strengthens us in the ways we need strengthening. He also challenges us in the ways we need challenging.
If we help each other and not only accept each other's differences, but celebrate and rejoice in them, we will become a stronger ward family, a stronger Church, and stronger as individuals.
What challenges have you overcome or helped another to overcome today? Dede B.
Sis. Brown started with this parable; You look out across your big yard and decide you would like to have some fresh eggs. You build a coop, you purchase some chickens, you wait. When the eggs come, they are all different sizes and colors. You see the differences on the outside, but when you start cracking them you notice something. They are all basically the same inside.
Sis. Brown asked us to look at the people on each side of us. Can we find similarities between them and ourselves? We can obviously see differences.
Matthew 18:12 speaks of the Savior's teaching about the shepherd who had one sheep go astray. The Savior asks “Doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?” Elder Jensen says "As a priesthood leader, I had always thought of myself for many years as the shepherd—the one out searching for the lost sheep. But in a moment of reflection, it came to me that in some way or another we are all that one lost sheep. We all have our failings, and our lives vary in some ways from the ideal. We are all different! This is a humbling but helpful recognition." Have you ever felt like a lost sheep?
Sis. Brown said that there are several reasons we might feel like a lost sheep, or even a black sheep. She discussed a few of those with us.
1. Unfulfilled expectations my exist.
We are private about those things we struggle with. We might think that everyone else can see these things, or that everyone knows our shortcomings, but in truth, we generally look for the good in each other and what you might consider your shortcoming may be what endears you to me, or I might not have even noticed it at all! Sharing these things might help others to grow. We all have that in common- we can learn from each other and buoy each other up. Also, if we turn our trials over to the Savior, he can turn them into a lesson. Matthew 5:48 says "Be ye therefore perfect," not "go and try to have a good day." The Savior doesn't lower his expectations based on our personal struggles and challenges. He orders us to be as perfect as we can.
2. Having to keep all the commandments in order to receive spiritual gifts seems impossible. D&C 46:9 says
"For verily I say unto you, they are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and him that seeketh so to do; that all may be benefited that seek or that ask of me..."
Elder Jensen says; "It is also helpful to remember that in teaching the ideal, the Savior recognized that the ideal isn’t always immediately attainable. In speaking of spiritual gifts—those wonderful endowments of the Holy Ghost—the Savior said, “They are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments.” Having to keep all the commandments in order to enjoy spiritual gifts seems an impossibly high standard, but thankfully the Savior adds that spiritual gifts are also given for the benefit of “him that seeketh so to do” (D&C 46:9; emphasis added). Seeking to keep all the commandments—even if we sometimes fall short of the ideal—is something within the power of each of us and is acceptable to our Heavenly Father."
Our spiritual gifts may be identical to those around us, but they manifest differently because WE are different.
It is not WHAT you do when you interact with those that are different from you that matters. It is what you are willing to do. It is that you are willing to act as a steward for our Heavenly Father. The person you are interacting with may or may not remember the act, but they will remember what they were loved by God's servant.
It is ok to ask for help. People need to be needed. We all need the opportunities to grow that are given through service. Especially in service to those who may be difficult to serve because of their differences. We need to follow the example of service of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who "... doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world; for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw call men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation." (2 Nephi 26:24) The atonement was voluntary, so that He could know our infirmities and overcome each of our challenges.
He knows our "yolks." He knows us and strengthens us in the ways we need strengthening. He also challenges us in the ways we need challenging.
If we help each other and not only accept each other's differences, but celebrate and rejoice in them, we will become a stronger ward family, a stronger Church, and stronger as individuals.
What challenges have you overcome or helped another to overcome today? Dede B.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
RS Lesson 25 July 2010
Today's lesson was taught by Carol Heintz, and was taken from two different talks; "Mothers Teaching Children in the Home"
By Elder L. Tom Perry Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and "Mother Told Me" By Elder Bradley D. Foster Of the Seventy, both found in the May 2010 Ensign.
Sis. Heintz started with a story from Elder Foster's talk; "My good friend Don Pearson shared an experience that highlights this influence. One night his four-year-old son asked him to read a bedtime story. Eric had picked out his favorite book: The Ballooning Adventures of Paddy Pork, a story about a family who lived on the isles of the sea and traveled from island to island by hot-air balloon. It was a picture book that had no words, so Brother Pearson made up words to the story.
“Paddy is in a hot-air balloon. He is landing on an island now. He is dropping a line over the side of the balloon.”
Eric stopped him. “Dad, that is not a line. It’s a rope.”
Brother Pearson looked at Eric and back at the picture book, and then he continued: “Paddy is getting out of the balloon and climbing down the tree. Oh no! His coat is caught on a limb!”
Again Eric stopped him. “Dad, that’s not a coat. It’s a jacket.”
By now Brother Pearson was somewhat perplexed. He said, “Eric, there are no words in this book, just pictures. Why do you insist that it’s a jacket?”
Eric answered, “Because Mother told me.”
His father closed the book and said, “Eric, who do you think is the last word, the ultimate authority in this house?”
This time Eric thought carefully before he answered, “You are, Dad.”
Brother Pearson beamed at his son. What an exceptional answer! “How did you know that?”
Eric quickly responded, “Mother told me.” '
Sis. Heintz was one of the first teachers of "mother training" or "mother education" through the Church. She said that she could never use all the material she studied and prepared for the class, but her family got the benefit of the leftovers. About this, Elder Perry says that "Our teaching in the home prepares us to teach more effectively at church, and our teaching at church helps us to teach more effectively at home. "
Sis. Heintz continued with Elder Foster's talk telling the following story. Before I relate the story however, I think it bears mentioning, that halfway through this story, Sis. Heintz got choked up and was not able to control her coughing to continue. Immediately, her daughter, Susan Klippel, hopped up and offered to finish the lesson. The timing could not have been better to perfectly illustrate the lesson, which is the effect mothers have on their children and in their homes. It was a beautiful, poignant demonstration of love, respect, and the effect of a mother's teachings. Here is the story,
On one particularly hot spring day, I was helping with the roundup by riding at the back of the herd as it moved down the dusty road toward the corral. My job was to gather any calves that had wandered from the road. The pace was slow and provided me some time to think.
Because it was so hot, the little calves kept running off into the trees to find shade. My thoughts turned to the youth of the Church who are sometimes distracted from the strait and narrow path. I also thought about those who have left the Church or who may feel that the Church has left their hearts while they were distracted. I thought to myself that a distraction doesn’t have to be evil to be effective—sometimes it can just be shade.
After several hours of gathering up stray calves and with sweat running down my face, I yelled to the calves in frustration, “Just follow your mothers! They know where they’re going! They’ve been down this road before!” Their mothers knew that even though the road was hot and dusty now, the end would be better than the beginning.
As soon as we got the herd into the corral, we noticed that three of the cows were pacing nervously at the gate. They could not find their calves and seemed to sense they were back on the road somewhere. One of the cowboys asked me what we should do. I said, “I bet I know where those calves are. Back a quarter of a mile [0.4 km] or so, there’s a stand of trees. I’m sure we’ll find them there.”
Sure enough, just as I had suspected, we found our lost calves taking a nap in the shade. Our approach startled them, and they resisted our efforts to round them up. They were frightened because we were not their mothers! The more we tried to push them toward the corral, the more stubborn they became. Finally I said to the cowboys, “I’m sorry. I know better than this. Let’s ride back and let their mothers out of the corral. The cows will come and get their calves, and the calves will follow their mothers.” I was right. The mother cows knew exactly where to go to find their calves, and they led them back to the corral, as I had expected. In a world where everyone is granted agency, some of our loved ones may stray for a season. But we can never give up. We must always go back for them—we must never stop trying."
Elder L. Tom Perry's talk concludes by saying "God bless you wonderful mothers [and fathers] in Zion. He has entrusted to your care His eternal children. As parents we partner, even join, with God in bringing to pass His work and glory among His children. It is our sacred duty to do our very best."
As mothers we do the best we can, and then we ask the Lord's help, in raising the children we have been blessed with. I thank each and one of you for your example of love and kindness to me, and your helping raise me as a mother, and raise my children. Dede B.
By Elder L. Tom Perry Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and "Mother Told Me" By Elder Bradley D. Foster Of the Seventy, both found in the May 2010 Ensign.
Sis. Heintz started with a story from Elder Foster's talk; "My good friend Don Pearson shared an experience that highlights this influence. One night his four-year-old son asked him to read a bedtime story. Eric had picked out his favorite book: The Ballooning Adventures of Paddy Pork, a story about a family who lived on the isles of the sea and traveled from island to island by hot-air balloon. It was a picture book that had no words, so Brother Pearson made up words to the story.
“Paddy is in a hot-air balloon. He is landing on an island now. He is dropping a line over the side of the balloon.”
Eric stopped him. “Dad, that is not a line. It’s a rope.”
Brother Pearson looked at Eric and back at the picture book, and then he continued: “Paddy is getting out of the balloon and climbing down the tree. Oh no! His coat is caught on a limb!”
Again Eric stopped him. “Dad, that’s not a coat. It’s a jacket.”
By now Brother Pearson was somewhat perplexed. He said, “Eric, there are no words in this book, just pictures. Why do you insist that it’s a jacket?”
Eric answered, “Because Mother told me.”
His father closed the book and said, “Eric, who do you think is the last word, the ultimate authority in this house?”
This time Eric thought carefully before he answered, “You are, Dad.”
Brother Pearson beamed at his son. What an exceptional answer! “How did you know that?”
Eric quickly responded, “Mother told me.” '
Sis. Heintz was one of the first teachers of "mother training" or "mother education" through the Church. She said that she could never use all the material she studied and prepared for the class, but her family got the benefit of the leftovers. About this, Elder Perry says that "Our teaching in the home prepares us to teach more effectively at church, and our teaching at church helps us to teach more effectively at home. "
Sis. Heintz continued with Elder Foster's talk telling the following story. Before I relate the story however, I think it bears mentioning, that halfway through this story, Sis. Heintz got choked up and was not able to control her coughing to continue. Immediately, her daughter, Susan Klippel, hopped up and offered to finish the lesson. The timing could not have been better to perfectly illustrate the lesson, which is the effect mothers have on their children and in their homes. It was a beautiful, poignant demonstration of love, respect, and the effect of a mother's teachings. Here is the story,
On one particularly hot spring day, I was helping with the roundup by riding at the back of the herd as it moved down the dusty road toward the corral. My job was to gather any calves that had wandered from the road. The pace was slow and provided me some time to think.
Because it was so hot, the little calves kept running off into the trees to find shade. My thoughts turned to the youth of the Church who are sometimes distracted from the strait and narrow path. I also thought about those who have left the Church or who may feel that the Church has left their hearts while they were distracted. I thought to myself that a distraction doesn’t have to be evil to be effective—sometimes it can just be shade.
After several hours of gathering up stray calves and with sweat running down my face, I yelled to the calves in frustration, “Just follow your mothers! They know where they’re going! They’ve been down this road before!” Their mothers knew that even though the road was hot and dusty now, the end would be better than the beginning.
As soon as we got the herd into the corral, we noticed that three of the cows were pacing nervously at the gate. They could not find their calves and seemed to sense they were back on the road somewhere. One of the cowboys asked me what we should do. I said, “I bet I know where those calves are. Back a quarter of a mile [0.4 km] or so, there’s a stand of trees. I’m sure we’ll find them there.”
Sure enough, just as I had suspected, we found our lost calves taking a nap in the shade. Our approach startled them, and they resisted our efforts to round them up. They were frightened because we were not their mothers! The more we tried to push them toward the corral, the more stubborn they became. Finally I said to the cowboys, “I’m sorry. I know better than this. Let’s ride back and let their mothers out of the corral. The cows will come and get their calves, and the calves will follow their mothers.” I was right. The mother cows knew exactly where to go to find their calves, and they led them back to the corral, as I had expected. In a world where everyone is granted agency, some of our loved ones may stray for a season. But we can never give up. We must always go back for them—we must never stop trying."
Elder L. Tom Perry's talk concludes by saying "God bless you wonderful mothers [and fathers] in Zion. He has entrusted to your care His eternal children. As parents we partner, even join, with God in bringing to pass His work and glory among His children. It is our sacred duty to do our very best."
As mothers we do the best we can, and then we ask the Lord's help, in raising the children we have been blessed with. I thank each and one of you for your example of love and kindness to me, and your helping raise me as a mother, and raise my children. Dede B.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
RS Lesson 18 July 2010
I was still gone out of town for this lesson, so everything here comes directly from the manual.
The lesson this week is from Ch. 14 of the Gospel Principles Manual, entitled "Priesthood Organization."
There are two divisions of the priesthood, the Aaronic and the Melchizedek. How did they get their names?
"The first is called the Melchizedek Priesthood...because Melchizedek was such a great high priest. Before his day it was called the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God. But out of respect or reverence to the name of the Supreme Being, to avoid the too frequent repetition of His name, they, the church, in ancient days, called that priesthood after Melchizedek, or the Melchizedek Priesthood." (D&C 107: 2-4)
The lesser priesthood is called the Aaronic Priesthood because it was conferred on Aaron and his sons throughout all their generations. Those who hold the AAronic priesthood have authority to administer the outward ordinances of the sacrament and baptism. Those holding the Melchizedek Priesthood have the power and authority to lead the Church and direct the preaching of the gospel in all parts of the world. They administer all the spiritual work of the church. They direct the work done in the temples; they preside over wards , branches, stakes, and missions. The Lord's chosen prophet, the President of the Church, is the presiding high priest over the Melchizedek Priesthood.
What are the offices and duties of the Aaronic Priesthood? When the Aaronic Priesthood is conferred upon a man or boy, he is ordained to an office in that priesthood. The offices in the Aaronic Priesthood are deacon, teacher, priest, and bishop. Each offices carries duties and responsibilities.
Deacon- a young man who has been baptized and confirmed a member of the Church and is worthy may be ordained to the office of deacon when he is 12 years old. The deacons are usually assigned to pass the sacrament, keep Church buildings and grounds in good order, act as messengers for priesthood leaders, and fulfill special assignments such as collecting fast offerings.
Teacher- A worthy young man may be ordained a teacher when he is 14 years old or older. Teaches have all the duties, rights, and powers of the office of deacon plus additional ones. Teachers are to help Church members live the commandments. To help fulfill this responsibility, they are usually assigned to serve as home teachers. Teachers also prepared the bread and water for the sacrament service.
Priest- a worthy young man may be ordained a priest when he is 16 years or older. Priests have all the duties, rights, and powers of the offices of deacon and teacher plus some additional ones. A priest may baptize. He may also administer the sacrament. He may ordain other priests, teachers, and deacons. A priest may take charge of meetings when there is no Melchizedek Priesthood holder present.
Bishop- a bishop is ordained and set apart to preside over the Aaronic Priesthood in a ward. He is the president of the Priests quorum. When he is acting in this office, a bishop deals primarily with temporal matters, such as finances, records, and directing care for the poor and needy. A bishop is also ordained a high priest so he can preside over all the members in the ward.
What are the duties and offices of the Melchizedek Priesthood?
The offices of the Melchizedek Priesthood are elder, high priest, patriarch, Seventy, and Apostle. Those ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood retain all the duties, rights, and powers of the Aaronic Priesthood as well.
Elders- Elders are called to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and watch over the Church. All Melchizedek Priesthood holders are elders. They have the authority to bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. Elders should conduct meetings of the Church as they are led by the Holy Ghost. Elders may administer to the sick and bless little children. Elders may preside over Church meetings when there are no High Priests present.
High Priest- A High Priest is given the authority to officiate in the Church and aminister spiritual things. Stake presidnets, mission presidents, high councilors, bishops, and other leaders of the Church are ordained high priests.
Patriarch- Patriarchs are ordained by General Authorities, or by stake presidents when they are authorized by the Council of the Twelve., to give patriarchal blessings to members of the Church. These blessings give us some understanding of our callings on earth. They are the word of the Lord personally to us. Patriarchs are also ordained High Priests.
Seventy- Seventies are special witnesses of Jesus Christ to the world and assist in building up and regulated the Church under the direction of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Apostle- An Apostle is a special witness of the name of Jesus Christ in all the world. The Apostles administer the affairs of the Church. Those who are ordained to the office of Apostle are usually set apart as members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Each one is given all the keys of the kingdom of God on earth, but only the senior Apostle who is the President of the Church, actively exercises all of the keys. They others act under his discretion
The Lord has instructed that the holders of the priesthood be organized into quorums. A quorum is a body of brethren holding the same priesthood office.
There are three quorums of the Aaronic Priesthood;
The Deacons quorum, which consists of up to12 deacons. (If there are more than 12 deacons in a ward, they can be divided into 2 or more quorums.)
The Teachers quorum, which consists of up to 24 teachers.
The Priests quorum, which consists of up to 48 priests.
At the general Church level, the members of the First Presidency form a quorum, as do the Twelve Apostles. The Seventies are also organized into quorums.
At the local Church level, Melchizedek Priesthood bearers are organized into the following quorums:
The Elders quorum consists of up to 96 elders.
The High Priest quorum includes all high priests residing within the boundaries of a stake. The high priests in each ward are organized into a group with a group leader.
If a priesthood quorum functions properly, the members of the quorum are encouraged, blessed, fellowshipped, and taught the gospel by their leaders. Even thoguh a man may be released from Church callings, such as teacher, quorum president, etc his membership in his quorum does not change. Membership in a quorum of the priesthood should be regarded as a sacred privilege.
All organizations in the Church work under the direction of priesthood leaders and help them carry out the work of the Lord. For examples, the presidencies in a ward's Relief Society, Young Women, Young Men, Primary, and Sunday School organizations serve under the direction of the bishopric. These organizations are called auxiliaries to the priesthood.
What role can we as women have as individuals in helping the priesthood's leadership be successful? Dede B.
The lesson this week is from Ch. 14 of the Gospel Principles Manual, entitled "Priesthood Organization."
There are two divisions of the priesthood, the Aaronic and the Melchizedek. How did they get their names?
"The first is called the Melchizedek Priesthood...because Melchizedek was such a great high priest. Before his day it was called the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God. But out of respect or reverence to the name of the Supreme Being, to avoid the too frequent repetition of His name, they, the church, in ancient days, called that priesthood after Melchizedek, or the Melchizedek Priesthood." (D&C 107: 2-4)
The lesser priesthood is called the Aaronic Priesthood because it was conferred on Aaron and his sons throughout all their generations. Those who hold the AAronic priesthood have authority to administer the outward ordinances of the sacrament and baptism. Those holding the Melchizedek Priesthood have the power and authority to lead the Church and direct the preaching of the gospel in all parts of the world. They administer all the spiritual work of the church. They direct the work done in the temples; they preside over wards , branches, stakes, and missions. The Lord's chosen prophet, the President of the Church, is the presiding high priest over the Melchizedek Priesthood.
What are the offices and duties of the Aaronic Priesthood? When the Aaronic Priesthood is conferred upon a man or boy, he is ordained to an office in that priesthood. The offices in the Aaronic Priesthood are deacon, teacher, priest, and bishop. Each offices carries duties and responsibilities.
Deacon- a young man who has been baptized and confirmed a member of the Church and is worthy may be ordained to the office of deacon when he is 12 years old. The deacons are usually assigned to pass the sacrament, keep Church buildings and grounds in good order, act as messengers for priesthood leaders, and fulfill special assignments such as collecting fast offerings.
Teacher- A worthy young man may be ordained a teacher when he is 14 years old or older. Teaches have all the duties, rights, and powers of the office of deacon plus additional ones. Teachers are to help Church members live the commandments. To help fulfill this responsibility, they are usually assigned to serve as home teachers. Teachers also prepared the bread and water for the sacrament service.
Priest- a worthy young man may be ordained a priest when he is 16 years or older. Priests have all the duties, rights, and powers of the offices of deacon and teacher plus some additional ones. A priest may baptize. He may also administer the sacrament. He may ordain other priests, teachers, and deacons. A priest may take charge of meetings when there is no Melchizedek Priesthood holder present.
Bishop- a bishop is ordained and set apart to preside over the Aaronic Priesthood in a ward. He is the president of the Priests quorum. When he is acting in this office, a bishop deals primarily with temporal matters, such as finances, records, and directing care for the poor and needy. A bishop is also ordained a high priest so he can preside over all the members in the ward.
What are the duties and offices of the Melchizedek Priesthood?
The offices of the Melchizedek Priesthood are elder, high priest, patriarch, Seventy, and Apostle. Those ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood retain all the duties, rights, and powers of the Aaronic Priesthood as well.
Elders- Elders are called to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and watch over the Church. All Melchizedek Priesthood holders are elders. They have the authority to bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. Elders should conduct meetings of the Church as they are led by the Holy Ghost. Elders may administer to the sick and bless little children. Elders may preside over Church meetings when there are no High Priests present.
High Priest- A High Priest is given the authority to officiate in the Church and aminister spiritual things. Stake presidnets, mission presidents, high councilors, bishops, and other leaders of the Church are ordained high priests.
Patriarch- Patriarchs are ordained by General Authorities, or by stake presidents when they are authorized by the Council of the Twelve., to give patriarchal blessings to members of the Church. These blessings give us some understanding of our callings on earth. They are the word of the Lord personally to us. Patriarchs are also ordained High Priests.
Seventy- Seventies are special witnesses of Jesus Christ to the world and assist in building up and regulated the Church under the direction of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Apostle- An Apostle is a special witness of the name of Jesus Christ in all the world. The Apostles administer the affairs of the Church. Those who are ordained to the office of Apostle are usually set apart as members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Each one is given all the keys of the kingdom of God on earth, but only the senior Apostle who is the President of the Church, actively exercises all of the keys. They others act under his discretion
The Lord has instructed that the holders of the priesthood be organized into quorums. A quorum is a body of brethren holding the same priesthood office.
There are three quorums of the Aaronic Priesthood;
The Deacons quorum, which consists of up to12 deacons. (If there are more than 12 deacons in a ward, they can be divided into 2 or more quorums.)
The Teachers quorum, which consists of up to 24 teachers.
The Priests quorum, which consists of up to 48 priests.
At the general Church level, the members of the First Presidency form a quorum, as do the Twelve Apostles. The Seventies are also organized into quorums.
At the local Church level, Melchizedek Priesthood bearers are organized into the following quorums:
The Elders quorum consists of up to 96 elders.
The High Priest quorum includes all high priests residing within the boundaries of a stake. The high priests in each ward are organized into a group with a group leader.
If a priesthood quorum functions properly, the members of the quorum are encouraged, blessed, fellowshipped, and taught the gospel by their leaders. Even thoguh a man may be released from Church callings, such as teacher, quorum president, etc his membership in his quorum does not change. Membership in a quorum of the priesthood should be regarded as a sacred privilege.
All organizations in the Church work under the direction of priesthood leaders and help them carry out the work of the Lord. For examples, the presidencies in a ward's Relief Society, Young Women, Young Men, Primary, and Sunday School organizations serve under the direction of the bishopric. These organizations are called auxiliaries to the priesthood.
What role can we as women have as individuals in helping the priesthood's leadership be successful? Dede B.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
RS Lesson 11 July 2010
Sorry I have been slacking on keeping the lessons updated. I was out of town for this lesson, but here is what I got from the manual.
The lesson was Ch. 13 of the Gospel Principles manual, entitled "The Priesthood."
The priesthood is the eternal power and authority of God. Through the priesthood He created and governs the heavens and the earth. Our Heavenly Father delegates His priesthood power to worthy male members of the church. The priesthood enables them to act in God's name for the salvation of the human family. We must have priesthood authority to act in the name of God when performing the sacred ordinances of the gospel, such as baptism, confirmation, administration of the sacrament, and temple marriage. If a man does not have the priesthood, even though he may be sincere, the Lord will not recognize ordinances he performs. Another reason the priesthood is needed on the earth is so we can understand the will of the Lord and carry out His purposes. God reveals His will to His authorized priesthood representative on the earth, the prophet.
The Lord has prepared an orderly way for His priesthood to be given to His sons on earth. A worthy male member of the Church receives the priesthood "by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof." (Articles of Faith 1:5) This is the same way men received the priesthood long ago, even in the days of Moses. Men cannot buy and sell the power and authority of the priesthood. Nor can they take this authority upon themselves.
The priesthood should be used to bless the lives of our Heavenly Father's children here on earth. Priesthood holders should preside in love and kindness. The Lord has told us that the power of the priesthood cannot be controlled except in righteousness. (See D&C 121:36)
The Lord has promised great blessings to righteous priesthood holders who use the priesthood to bless others. President David O. Mckay promised every man who uses the priesthood in righteousness that he "will find his life sweetened, his discernment sharpened to decide quickly between right and wrong, his feelings tender and compassionate, yet his spirit strong and valiant in defense of right; he will find the priesthood a never failing source of happiness- a well of living water springing up unto eternal life. "
Have you seen the blessings of the priesthood in your life? Dede B.
The lesson was Ch. 13 of the Gospel Principles manual, entitled "The Priesthood."
The priesthood is the eternal power and authority of God. Through the priesthood He created and governs the heavens and the earth. Our Heavenly Father delegates His priesthood power to worthy male members of the church. The priesthood enables them to act in God's name for the salvation of the human family. We must have priesthood authority to act in the name of God when performing the sacred ordinances of the gospel, such as baptism, confirmation, administration of the sacrament, and temple marriage. If a man does not have the priesthood, even though he may be sincere, the Lord will not recognize ordinances he performs. Another reason the priesthood is needed on the earth is so we can understand the will of the Lord and carry out His purposes. God reveals His will to His authorized priesthood representative on the earth, the prophet.
The Lord has prepared an orderly way for His priesthood to be given to His sons on earth. A worthy male member of the Church receives the priesthood "by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof." (Articles of Faith 1:5) This is the same way men received the priesthood long ago, even in the days of Moses. Men cannot buy and sell the power and authority of the priesthood. Nor can they take this authority upon themselves.
The priesthood should be used to bless the lives of our Heavenly Father's children here on earth. Priesthood holders should preside in love and kindness. The Lord has told us that the power of the priesthood cannot be controlled except in righteousness. (See D&C 121:36)
The Lord has promised great blessings to righteous priesthood holders who use the priesthood to bless others. President David O. Mckay promised every man who uses the priesthood in righteousness that he "will find his life sweetened, his discernment sharpened to decide quickly between right and wrong, his feelings tender and compassionate, yet his spirit strong and valiant in defense of right; he will find the priesthood a never failing source of happiness- a well of living water springing up unto eternal life. "
Have you seen the blessings of the priesthood in your life? Dede B.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Today in Relief Society, 4 July 2010
Happy 4th of July! Sacrament meeting had some lovely testimonies on freedom, independence, and service; as well as a lovely closing hymn of all 3 verses of "The Star-Spangled Banner."
Our lesson was taught by Wendy Bonham, and it was about using our time wisely.
Sis. Bonham started out by expressing her appreciation for the testimonies borne. She said that the testimonies helped her realize more clearly that everyone is here for different reasons, and everyone has had different experiences.
She then read this cute little article; (Barbara Stockwell, “Mirthright: It Takes Only Thirty Minutes a Day …,”Ensign, Jul 1982, 71)
"A few weeks ago I read an article about the importance of studying scriptures, so I set my alarm for thirty minutes earlier every day. Then I remembered I should write in my journal every day, so I stayed up a half-hour later each night.
Then last week in Relief Society we were admonished to exercise daily to keep our bodies fit, so I got up a little earlier each day to jog. Later in the week, I read a magazine article that promised me beautiful skin in only fifteen minutes a day, and another one said that a half-hour a day of meditation could change my life. A self-help book told me I should spend at least thirty minutes a day visualizing my desires and repeating positive affirmations. I had to get up earlier to do this.
Still, I was able to squeeze other activities into my already heavily scheduled day. I learned to do the pelvic tilt to relieve my lower back pain while driving to work. And I did my isometric exercises while at my desk. I cut my lunch hour in half in order to read the Ensign. In only half an hour a day I was able to finish it before the next one came … except for the conference issue. For that I had to stay up a little at night and read, after my goal planning was done.
Another woman’s magazine said I could give myself professional nail care in only ten minutes a day. It also suggested that a foot soak after work would do wonders to relieve tiredness. I tried to do that while I was preparing dinner, but I got so relaxed I kept dropping the carrot sticks in the gravy. Dinner would have to be delayed a little, and that would push bedtime back about a half-hour. But it was all worth it; I was becoming a new woman.
I learned in a class on success that the only way to make it in life is to write a “to do” list each night and then review it every morning to set priorities for the day. It only takes a few minutes and saves a lot of time in the long run. And did you know that if you spend only an extra forty-five minutes a day on housework you never have to get bogged down in spring cleaning?
It is marvelous how many things can be done in such a short time, and I would feel negligent if I said I couldn’t find those few minutes. After all, is a few minutes a day for all that improvement too much to ask? I can always set the alarm a little earlier.
But last night as I was setting the alarm after my prayers I realized it was time to get up and jog. Maybe I should make out a new schedule—it will only take a few minutes. … "
We are all very busy, but we need to make the effort to better use our precious time to serve the Lord. Sis. Bonham shared with us that when she was set apart in the RS presidency, she was told to "use my own experiences to teach." She thought at the time it was because her experiences had made her wise. She told us that from preparing this lesson, she now realizes that the reasons she needs to share her experiences is so that the rest of us sisters can help her navigate through her personal journey.
Sis. Bonham was in a plane crash 5 years ago. She was one of only two survivors. Sis. Bonham said that in order to deal with it she became numb. The 13 that died were amazing people. They used their time well, serving others, doctoring throughout the world. One was a Bishop, with 8 children, the youngest only 5 months old. Sis. Bonham began to feel a heaviness about herself. She felt that she needed to make her life more worthwhile. She needed to live up to the standards of those who had died. In order to do this, she became a volunteer. She started the Special Olympic program here in Clallam county. She still runs this program. She became a volunteer mediator for the county. She continues to take care of ailing parents and grandparents, while helping with her 7 grandchildren and various callings. She does all of these things to try to better use her time. Recently, she began feeling overwhelmed. She felt she could not do all the things she had to do. She had budgeted her time to the minute, and a few urgently important things came up that required her time. Sis Bonham realized that just like a financial budget, we need to add cushion time to our budget in case of emergencies.
Sis. Bonham then asked two questions;
1. What is the task(s) we are given to accomplish with this time Heavenly Father has given us?
2. How can we best use our time to accomplish the task for which it is given?
I will leave it to you to answer these two questions for yourself, as every one has different reasons and experiences.
I would suggest that we pray to keep in mind the task(s) that Heavenly Father has given us. Each of us can learn from each other's experiences. The Lord has put us all together that we might learn and grow from one another. What can you do today to better use your time? Dede B.
Our lesson was taught by Wendy Bonham, and it was about using our time wisely.
Sis. Bonham started out by expressing her appreciation for the testimonies borne. She said that the testimonies helped her realize more clearly that everyone is here for different reasons, and everyone has had different experiences.
She then read this cute little article; (Barbara Stockwell, “Mirthright: It Takes Only Thirty Minutes a Day …,”Ensign, Jul 1982, 71)
"A few weeks ago I read an article about the importance of studying scriptures, so I set my alarm for thirty minutes earlier every day. Then I remembered I should write in my journal every day, so I stayed up a half-hour later each night.
Then last week in Relief Society we were admonished to exercise daily to keep our bodies fit, so I got up a little earlier each day to jog. Later in the week, I read a magazine article that promised me beautiful skin in only fifteen minutes a day, and another one said that a half-hour a day of meditation could change my life. A self-help book told me I should spend at least thirty minutes a day visualizing my desires and repeating positive affirmations. I had to get up earlier to do this.
Still, I was able to squeeze other activities into my already heavily scheduled day. I learned to do the pelvic tilt to relieve my lower back pain while driving to work. And I did my isometric exercises while at my desk. I cut my lunch hour in half in order to read the Ensign. In only half an hour a day I was able to finish it before the next one came … except for the conference issue. For that I had to stay up a little at night and read, after my goal planning was done.
Another woman’s magazine said I could give myself professional nail care in only ten minutes a day. It also suggested that a foot soak after work would do wonders to relieve tiredness. I tried to do that while I was preparing dinner, but I got so relaxed I kept dropping the carrot sticks in the gravy. Dinner would have to be delayed a little, and that would push bedtime back about a half-hour. But it was all worth it; I was becoming a new woman.
I learned in a class on success that the only way to make it in life is to write a “to do” list each night and then review it every morning to set priorities for the day. It only takes a few minutes and saves a lot of time in the long run. And did you know that if you spend only an extra forty-five minutes a day on housework you never have to get bogged down in spring cleaning?
It is marvelous how many things can be done in such a short time, and I would feel negligent if I said I couldn’t find those few minutes. After all, is a few minutes a day for all that improvement too much to ask? I can always set the alarm a little earlier.
But last night as I was setting the alarm after my prayers I realized it was time to get up and jog. Maybe I should make out a new schedule—it will only take a few minutes. … "
We are all very busy, but we need to make the effort to better use our precious time to serve the Lord. Sis. Bonham shared with us that when she was set apart in the RS presidency, she was told to "use my own experiences to teach." She thought at the time it was because her experiences had made her wise. She told us that from preparing this lesson, she now realizes that the reasons she needs to share her experiences is so that the rest of us sisters can help her navigate through her personal journey.
Sis. Bonham was in a plane crash 5 years ago. She was one of only two survivors. Sis. Bonham said that in order to deal with it she became numb. The 13 that died were amazing people. They used their time well, serving others, doctoring throughout the world. One was a Bishop, with 8 children, the youngest only 5 months old. Sis. Bonham began to feel a heaviness about herself. She felt that she needed to make her life more worthwhile. She needed to live up to the standards of those who had died. In order to do this, she became a volunteer. She started the Special Olympic program here in Clallam county. She still runs this program. She became a volunteer mediator for the county. She continues to take care of ailing parents and grandparents, while helping with her 7 grandchildren and various callings. She does all of these things to try to better use her time. Recently, she began feeling overwhelmed. She felt she could not do all the things she had to do. She had budgeted her time to the minute, and a few urgently important things came up that required her time. Sis Bonham realized that just like a financial budget, we need to add cushion time to our budget in case of emergencies.
Sis. Bonham then asked two questions;
1. What is the task(s) we are given to accomplish with this time Heavenly Father has given us?
2. How can we best use our time to accomplish the task for which it is given?
I will leave it to you to answer these two questions for yourself, as every one has different reasons and experiences.
I would suggest that we pray to keep in mind the task(s) that Heavenly Father has given us. Each of us can learn from each other's experiences. The Lord has put us all together that we might learn and grow from one another. What can you do today to better use your time? Dede B.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Today in Relief Society, 27 June 2010
Sis. Carol Heintz (who is NOT stranded in England!!) gave our lesson, based on Jeffrey R. Holland's October 2009 General Conference talk "Safety for the Soul."
When you read this talk at lds.org, the very first line says " I want it absolutely clear when I stand before the judgment bar of God that I declared to the world . . . that the Book of Mormon is true." I love it! I think it is amazing that we have an entire church full of people willing to stand up and declare such things. I love that we live in a country where we have the freedom to do so. I love that this man, and many others like him, is such a fine example of bravery, devotion, and spirituality.
Elder Holland states that prophecies regarding the "end of days" always focus on natural disasters including floods, earthquakes, and famine. "But there is one kind of latter-day destruction that has always sounded to me more personal than public, more individual than collective—a warning, perhaps more applicable inside the Church than outside it. The Savior warned that in the last days even those of the covenant, the very elect, could be deceived by the enemy of truth. If we think of this as a form of spiritual destruction, it may cast light on another latter-day prophecy. Think of the heart as the figurative center of our faith, the poetic location of our loyalties and our values; then consider Jesus’s declaration that in the last days 'men’s hearts [shall fail] them.' (Luke 21:26.) "
We are given protections against this "enemy of truth." We have the Book of Mormon, we only need read it. We have the voice of our Prophet, we only need head it! Elder Holland continues; "The encouraging thing, of course, is that our Father in Heaven knows all of these latter-day dangers, these troubles of the heart and soul, and has given counsel and protections regarding them. In light of that, it has always been significant to me that the Book of Mormon, one of the Lord’s powerful keystones3 in this counteroffensive against latter-day ills, begins with a great parable of life, an extended allegory of hope versus fear, of light versus darkness, of salvation versus destruction—an allegory of which Sister Ann M. Dibb (Second Councilor in the General Young Women's Presidency) spoke so movingly this morning." The story he refers to is told here,
"A number of years ago, a one-inch article in my local newspaper caught my attention, and I have remembered it ever since: “Four people were killed and seven workers were rescued after clinging for more than an hour to the underside of a 125-foot-high [38-m] bridge in St. Catharines, Ontario, [Canada,] after the scaffolding they were working on collapsed” (“News Capsules,” Deseret News, June 9, 1993, A2). I was, and I continue to be, fascinated by this brief story. Shortly after reading this account, I called a family friend who lived in St. Catharines. She explained that the workers had been painting the Garden City Skyway bridge for about a year and were two weeks short of completing the project when the accident happened. After the accident, officials were asked why these men did not have any safety equipment. The answer was simple: they had the equipment; they just chose not to wear it. After the scaffolding gave way, the survivors held on to a one-inch lip of steel girder and stood on an eight-inch ledge of steel for over an hour until rescue teams could reach them. One survivor related that as he clung to the bridge, he thought a lot about his family. He said, “I just thank the Lord for me being here today. … It was pretty scary, I tell you” (in Rick Bogacz, “Skyway Horror,” Standard, June 9, 1993). There are many lessons to be learned and comparisons to be made from this incident. While most of us will never face such a dramatic, life-or-death situation, many of us feel that we are going through a scary time in our personal lives."
Our Heavenly Father has given us all of the safety equipment we need in order to make it through this mortal probation. Are we using it to it's full capacity, or are we barely holding on to that one-inch lip after a major incident? We have the chance to make full use of that equipment at any time, even if we are hanging on by a ledge. As the lyrics to one of my favorite songs go "First ya gotta read it, then ya gotta head it, never know when you're gonna need it! Just as old Elijah said to Jezebel, You better start to learn your lessons well!" (Learn your lessons well, Godspell) Are you reading and heading? Dede B.
When you read this talk at lds.org, the very first line says " I want it absolutely clear when I stand before the judgment bar of God that I declared to the world . . . that the Book of Mormon is true." I love it! I think it is amazing that we have an entire church full of people willing to stand up and declare such things. I love that we live in a country where we have the freedom to do so. I love that this man, and many others like him, is such a fine example of bravery, devotion, and spirituality.
Elder Holland states that prophecies regarding the "end of days" always focus on natural disasters including floods, earthquakes, and famine. "But there is one kind of latter-day destruction that has always sounded to me more personal than public, more individual than collective—a warning, perhaps more applicable inside the Church than outside it. The Savior warned that in the last days even those of the covenant, the very elect, could be deceived by the enemy of truth. If we think of this as a form of spiritual destruction, it may cast light on another latter-day prophecy. Think of the heart as the figurative center of our faith, the poetic location of our loyalties and our values; then consider Jesus’s declaration that in the last days 'men’s hearts [shall fail] them.' (Luke 21:26.) "
We are given protections against this "enemy of truth." We have the Book of Mormon, we only need read it. We have the voice of our Prophet, we only need head it! Elder Holland continues; "The encouraging thing, of course, is that our Father in Heaven knows all of these latter-day dangers, these troubles of the heart and soul, and has given counsel and protections regarding them. In light of that, it has always been significant to me that the Book of Mormon, one of the Lord’s powerful keystones3 in this counteroffensive against latter-day ills, begins with a great parable of life, an extended allegory of hope versus fear, of light versus darkness, of salvation versus destruction—an allegory of which Sister Ann M. Dibb (Second Councilor in the General Young Women's Presidency) spoke so movingly this morning." The story he refers to is told here,
"A number of years ago, a one-inch article in my local newspaper caught my attention, and I have remembered it ever since: “Four people were killed and seven workers were rescued after clinging for more than an hour to the underside of a 125-foot-high [38-m] bridge in St. Catharines, Ontario, [Canada,] after the scaffolding they were working on collapsed” (“News Capsules,” Deseret News, June 9, 1993, A2). I was, and I continue to be, fascinated by this brief story. Shortly after reading this account, I called a family friend who lived in St. Catharines. She explained that the workers had been painting the Garden City Skyway bridge for about a year and were two weeks short of completing the project when the accident happened. After the accident, officials were asked why these men did not have any safety equipment. The answer was simple: they had the equipment; they just chose not to wear it. After the scaffolding gave way, the survivors held on to a one-inch lip of steel girder and stood on an eight-inch ledge of steel for over an hour until rescue teams could reach them. One survivor related that as he clung to the bridge, he thought a lot about his family. He said, “I just thank the Lord for me being here today. … It was pretty scary, I tell you” (in Rick Bogacz, “Skyway Horror,” Standard, June 9, 1993). There are many lessons to be learned and comparisons to be made from this incident. While most of us will never face such a dramatic, life-or-death situation, many of us feel that we are going through a scary time in our personal lives."
Our Heavenly Father has given us all of the safety equipment we need in order to make it through this mortal probation. Are we using it to it's full capacity, or are we barely holding on to that one-inch lip after a major incident? We have the chance to make full use of that equipment at any time, even if we are hanging on by a ledge. As the lyrics to one of my favorite songs go "First ya gotta read it, then ya gotta head it, never know when you're gonna need it! Just as old Elijah said to Jezebel, You better start to learn your lessons well!" (Learn your lessons well, Godspell) Are you reading and heading? Dede B.
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