I was reading Captain Moroni’s letter to Pahoran this morning in my personal studies and, for the second time in my life, the question he asks Pahoran had a powerful impact.
The first time was shortly after returning from my mission. I was sitting in Sunday School waiting for the Gospel Doctrine teacher to appear. Time passed. No one approached the front of the room to teach the class. No teacher. No substitute. Not even a brave member from class. For twenty minutes the ward members were content to visit quietly with each other.
I felt the Spirit nagging me to get up and start the lesson but I didn’t. After all, I didn't have a manual, wasn't called to teach, was just 21 years old, and had only been home a couple of weeks from my mission. Who wants to hear from a naive, inexperienced teacher barely out of her teenage years?
So I chickened out. I opened my scriptures intent on immersing myself in them and ignoring the situation around me.
They literally fell open to Alma 60:11, which reads. “Behold, could ye suppose that ye could sit upon your thrones, and because of the exceeding goodness of God ye could do nothing and he would deliver you?”
That’s all the further I read. I shut the scriptures, stood up and took over the lesson.
This morning while, once again, reading in Alma 60 I was struck by the irony of verse 7 which says, “Can you think to sit upon your thrones in a state of thoughtless stupor, while your enemies are spreading the work of death around you? Yea, while they are murdering thousands of your brethren—“
You see, as I was reading that verse two members of my family were sitting within my view…in a state of thoughtless stupor on their phones. They were checking their Facebook page, watching videos, snapchatting, and they'd been doing it most of the morning.
You know what I'm talking about. You’ve seen it in your own homes.
Maybe you've even been guilty of it, yourself!
Hours and hours and HOURS wasted on chasing useless facts, entertainment and worldly validation on the internet.
And I was struck how Satan is using the internet to spiritually murder thousands of members of the church while we do nothing to stop it. We are too busy surfing the internet, scrolling through feeds, and liking and approving posts with just a sentence or two, to "be up and doing" real good on the internet.
Moroni had it right when he said, “I fear exceedingly that the judgments of God will come upon this people, because of their exceeding slothfulness” (vs. 14).
This people…the members.
All the while we waste our time on the internet, Satan is making incredible use of his time. He is using the internet to spread the work of destruction against the Church, destroy virtue, throw temptations in front of every user, and numb our souls with a continual onslaught of foul language, innuendos, attacks and rants.
Are you aware that Captain Moroni said, "We could have withstood our enemies...had it not been for the war which broke out among ourselves" (vs. 15-16). On the internet right now there are typed battles going on, hurt being spread, friendships being destroyed--even among the members. Satan's use of the internet actually encourages us to give battle without a face, to post caustic thoughts and then wait for the "Likes" to pour in. No need for self-control when people give a "thumbs up" to our rants.
And that is exactly what Satan wants. The internet is his favorite weapon of attack.
So, our we posting defenses against those attacks?
Are we fortifying ourselves, our families and our homes against those attacks because we are willing to step forward on the internet and go to work? Are we willing to battle Satan on the internet (where the battle is taking place) in preserving our liberty, our lands, our wives and our children, and our rights of worship?
Remember, we don't sit on the internet, alone. Oh, no. We're caught up in it along with thousands and thousands of others--all of whom are subject to the same attacks by Satan, whether they are members or not. Again, Captain Moroni asks Paharon (and all of us), “Will ye sit in idleness while ye are surrounded with thousands of those, yea, and tens of thousands, who do also sit in idleness?”
“Do ye suppose that the Lord will still deliver us, while we sit upon our thrones and do not make use of the means which the Lord has provided for us?”
And the Lord has provided us with the internet!
Yes, the internet is Satan's greatest weapon but remember...it God's greatest tool.
The difference is this: weapons destroy, tools build.
Let us make sure that we are using the internet as a tool for good…that we are building truths and not wasting our time in idleness on it. Rather let us find ways to strengthen and build others, defend good with kindness, and stand for righteousness.
Then let us not stay on the internet longer than necessary. When we have done what the Lord wants us to do--when we have done GOOD, let us turn off the internet and embrace our families and friends in real time, with real face-to-face interactions.
Friday, July 14, 2017
Friday, November 11, 2016
Before we can change a nation we must change our homes.
The election, which divided the country in the preceding months, has left a gouge across the nation in its post-election outcome. Verbal protests and physical violence are being reported every day.
Now, I am just one little citizen who cast one little vote. As I went to the polls I saw my choices as voting for a Crook or a Crazy. Yes, I could have voted for a third party or even used the write-in slot and I debated that back and forth throughout the long months leading up to the election; but I realized voting that way wasn’t going to help. If I wanted to protect what I valued I needed to vote for one of the Two.
At some point my vote leaned toward each of the candidates in turn—in fact, I was constantly back and forth between the two until Election Morning. Finally, in the end, I did vote for one of them—not because I wanted that person in office but because I realized I did not want the other person there. This election, for the first time ever, I cast my vote—not to put someone into office but to try and keep the other person out.
Who got my one, tiny vote doesn’t matter. What does matter is that I’m not protesting nor acting like a spoiled child in the store who was just told they couldn’t have the toy they wanted; nor taunting another child because their toy was taken away. (Personally, I didn’t want either toy but that is not my direction here.)
Why am I not protesting? Because I realize two things.
One--in the big picture, the President of the United States is simply a figurehead. He or She wields no real power except in the Executive sense. In other words, the President is the biggest “Yes-Man” or “Yes-Woman” in the world. The real power in this Nation is held by our Legislative Branch—our elected Representatives and Senators. (The term “Congress” is a blanket term used to describe the collective powers of the House and Senate. A Congressman is either a Representative or a Senator.)
Sure, the President can sign or veto laws presented by the “Congress”. However, if the law is vetoed, it is sent back to the House and the Senate and can still be brought to law no matter what the President said by a “Simple Majority” vote or by a two-thirds vote in both the House and the Senate.
As for committing our soldiers to war, the President technically has that power but, again, it is limited and can be rejected by Congress.
The only real power the President holds is the power to appoint; and most of those appointments will change when the Presidency does. The only appointment that has any lasting effect on the nation is the Presidential power to appoint a judge to the Supreme Court.
That said, the real power in this nation is NOT held by the President…disappointing as it may be to every protester and naysayer out there. It is held by our elected officials in the House and the Senate. In our Nation, the President always functions with one hand tied behind his or her back and our Representatives and Senators hold that rope.
Two—and here is the bigger view I have. Whenever there is a swing in political power it is GOOD. Power swings mean that that groups who were not the pet-projects of the previous power will now get their time of needed attention. It means that no one special interest group will dominate for decades.
Yes, in our country, ALL the wheels squeak ALL the time. Every group needs and wants political attention. Every power swing mean that a new and different wheel will now get their much needed oiling…and we should be glad for the members of those groups. Glad because we know how much we benefited when our causes were oiled.
And when a power shift means OUR groups won’t be getting enough oil we can remember that it is very difficult for a new President to rescind any previous laws or protections. We will still be protected because the advances made under a previous president are not easily cast aside. They will remain while a new President—only with the approval and support of Congress—focuses on helping other groups make new advancements. The democratic process of our nation is a win-win process. We just have to wait awhile for our turn sometimes, and allow others to have their turns.
Now here is something else I know. And this is the hardest admission of all. The Presidential office does not have a “trickle down” effect. The President will not ruin our national core and fiber. Only we will do that. And if we don't like the direction our nation is headed we do NOT need to look to the President. We need to look in the mirror.
Because “individuals” vote in each President, the Presidential Office is an upward reflection of our individual values! Each President--who is a product of the homes in this nation--shows what we are, or are not, teaching in the home. (Schools cannot override the influence of the home, so don’t even try to pin that responsibility on the school system.)
If we do not like who is voted into office, rather than ransack and scream and show our hatred, we should go back to our homes and start there to teach and MODEL values of tolerance, kindness, and forgiveness. Then, maybe in 20 years we will elect a President who truly reflects those values. Before we can change a nation we must change our homes.
And that change won’t happen if we are out on the streets. It will happen only as we quietly and consistently gather our children and family members around us in love and tolerance, and teach them that the worth of all souls is great—even those souls who will be helped by a President we may or may not have voted for.
Now, I am just one little citizen who cast one little vote. As I went to the polls I saw my choices as voting for a Crook or a Crazy. Yes, I could have voted for a third party or even used the write-in slot and I debated that back and forth throughout the long months leading up to the election; but I realized voting that way wasn’t going to help. If I wanted to protect what I valued I needed to vote for one of the Two.
At some point my vote leaned toward each of the candidates in turn—in fact, I was constantly back and forth between the two until Election Morning. Finally, in the end, I did vote for one of them—not because I wanted that person in office but because I realized I did not want the other person there. This election, for the first time ever, I cast my vote—not to put someone into office but to try and keep the other person out.
Who got my one, tiny vote doesn’t matter. What does matter is that I’m not protesting nor acting like a spoiled child in the store who was just told they couldn’t have the toy they wanted; nor taunting another child because their toy was taken away. (Personally, I didn’t want either toy but that is not my direction here.)
Why am I not protesting? Because I realize two things.
One--in the big picture, the President of the United States is simply a figurehead. He or She wields no real power except in the Executive sense. In other words, the President is the biggest “Yes-Man” or “Yes-Woman” in the world. The real power in this Nation is held by our Legislative Branch—our elected Representatives and Senators. (The term “Congress” is a blanket term used to describe the collective powers of the House and Senate. A Congressman is either a Representative or a Senator.)
Sure, the President can sign or veto laws presented by the “Congress”. However, if the law is vetoed, it is sent back to the House and the Senate and can still be brought to law no matter what the President said by a “Simple Majority” vote or by a two-thirds vote in both the House and the Senate.
As for committing our soldiers to war, the President technically has that power but, again, it is limited and can be rejected by Congress.
The only real power the President holds is the power to appoint; and most of those appointments will change when the Presidency does. The only appointment that has any lasting effect on the nation is the Presidential power to appoint a judge to the Supreme Court.
That said, the real power in this nation is NOT held by the President…disappointing as it may be to every protester and naysayer out there. It is held by our elected officials in the House and the Senate. In our Nation, the President always functions with one hand tied behind his or her back and our Representatives and Senators hold that rope.
Two—and here is the bigger view I have. Whenever there is a swing in political power it is GOOD. Power swings mean that that groups who were not the pet-projects of the previous power will now get their time of needed attention. It means that no one special interest group will dominate for decades.
Yes, in our country, ALL the wheels squeak ALL the time. Every group needs and wants political attention. Every power swing mean that a new and different wheel will now get their much needed oiling…and we should be glad for the members of those groups. Glad because we know how much we benefited when our causes were oiled.
And when a power shift means OUR groups won’t be getting enough oil we can remember that it is very difficult for a new President to rescind any previous laws or protections. We will still be protected because the advances made under a previous president are not easily cast aside. They will remain while a new President—only with the approval and support of Congress—focuses on helping other groups make new advancements. The democratic process of our nation is a win-win process. We just have to wait awhile for our turn sometimes, and allow others to have their turns.
Now here is something else I know. And this is the hardest admission of all. The Presidential office does not have a “trickle down” effect. The President will not ruin our national core and fiber. Only we will do that. And if we don't like the direction our nation is headed we do NOT need to look to the President. We need to look in the mirror.
Because “individuals” vote in each President, the Presidential Office is an upward reflection of our individual values! Each President--who is a product of the homes in this nation--shows what we are, or are not, teaching in the home. (Schools cannot override the influence of the home, so don’t even try to pin that responsibility on the school system.)
If we do not like who is voted into office, rather than ransack and scream and show our hatred, we should go back to our homes and start there to teach and MODEL values of tolerance, kindness, and forgiveness. Then, maybe in 20 years we will elect a President who truly reflects those values. Before we can change a nation we must change our homes.
And that change won’t happen if we are out on the streets. It will happen only as we quietly and consistently gather our children and family members around us in love and tolerance, and teach them that the worth of all souls is great—even those souls who will be helped by a President we may or may not have voted for.
Thursday, May 19, 2016
What a young man taught me about Teancum
I remember teaching the Book of Mormon to youth and, when we came to the part in Alma that recounts Teancum’s contributions, I asked the students what they knew about Teancum.
Without hesitation, one young man piped up, “Teancum was a stud!”
At that time I remember thinking, he doesn’t know the whole story or—if he does—he doesn’t understand it. After all, Teancum died killing Ammoron in personal anger. His downfall came because instead of doing something for God he went and did something for himself. Physically and spiritually Teancum, as the scriptures record, “had gone the way of all the earth” (Alma 62:37). He had, I felt, lowered himself to the plane of the world.
Yet, over the years, my student’s statement has refused to leave me and now I realize maybe I didn’t know the whole story—maybe I didn’t understand it. Maybe my student was right. Maybe Teancum, even with his imperfections, “was a stud” and we would all be better members if we learned from his example.
Be the kind of person leaders will call on. When Captain Moroni couldn’t be there to physically stop the people of Morianton from fleeing north he called for Teancum. He trusted this Nephite military leader to do the job he couldn’t…a job that if Teancum failed would “lead to the overthrow of their liberty” (Alma 50:32). Moroni knew the consequences of failure and there was only one man he chose to call.
When our son broke his back in two places while playing football my husband was hundreds of miles away, involved in meetings. In those frantic first hours, when he couldn’t be there to give our son a blessing, my husband made a phone call to the one person he trusted enough to stand in for him as a father. That man did not hesitate and gave our son a powerful blessing, paving the way for the Spirit to calm us and give us reassurance for our son’s recovery.
There are many people you can trust with various jobs in life. There are only a handful of people you will ever trust to represent YOU fully and completely. Be that kind of person. When spiritual or physical liberty is at stake, have the strength of character that shows you will stand firm in the call. Be the kind of person leaders will actually call on. Teancum was.
Be the kind of person who builds and strengthens others. The scriptures tell us that Teancum and his men “were great warriors; for every man of Teancum did exceed the Lamanites in their strength and in their skill of war” (Alma 51:31).
The scripture notes that every man was better than the enemy…not just some of them. How does that happen?
Now it is possible that Teancum was assigned a hand-picked army of elite fighters who just happened, every man, to be bigger and stronger and better than the enemy; but chances are far more likely that Teancum had a mixture of men and ability in his army. That means, in order to make sure every man exceeded the Lamanites, Teancum worked with what he had. He taught, he trained, he encouraged—he exampled the kind of warrior these men eventually became. He built them up from what they were until every man did exceed the enemy in their strength and skill of war. That takes time and commitment and vision…the vision of seeing what other people can become. Not everyone can see that, even in themselves. Teancum not only saw potential in every man in his army, he worked to help them reach that potential.
Be the kind of person who actually does something--today. We all say it--tomorrow I’m going to start my diet. Tomorrow I’m going clean that closet. Tomorrow I’m going to start reading my scriptures again. Tomorrow I am going to get my life in order and prepare for a mission/temple marriage/(fill in the blank).
Most of us talk as if talking actually counts.
Action is what actually gets the job done.
We are admonished to “be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). Teancum understood that. He wasn’t merely a hearer or a talker. He wasn’t simply thinking about doing something. He didn’t just listen and nod to the task he’d been given to stop the Lamanite army. He was a doer—even when others felt they had done enough.
After a tremendous, day-long battle with no clear victor, the Lamanites were overpowered with fatigue and heat; yet Teancum and his men did not rest even though they had been in the same battle. Teancum and a companion, dealing with the emotional and physical aftermath of battle, “stole forth and went out by night, and went into the camp of Amalickiah…(and Teancum) stole privily into the tent of the king…and did cause the death of the king” (Alma 51:34). He then returned to his own camp, awoke his tired men and, despite their fatigue, they all stood in readiness to fight again (Alma 51:33-36). Even though rest was sorely needed and would have been easier, Teancum didn’t wait for tomorrow to stop the king. He did it that very day and, because he did, the entire battle ended when the Lamanites discovered their slain king.
Stop, for a moment, and think of how many more lives would have ended if Teancum had decided to wait and stop the king ‘tomorrow’. How many more families would have been devastated? Teancum was tired, he had lost those he loved in that battle, he may even have been wounded himself, yet he pushed forward and did what he had been asked to do…understanding the urgency of doing it now. He didn't wait until it was convenient or better suited him, personally.
Now think, for a moment, the damage your spiritual rest may be causing others. Should you be resting? Do you understand the urgency of doing it now? Are you a Teancum--up and doing even when you have a million reasons not to? Or are you like Amalickiah--asleep in your tent?
Be the kind of person who works--even when there is reason not to. There was a time when the enemy outnumbered Teancum’s army. More troops were coming to help and Teancum could have simply sat back waited for Captain Moroni’s men to arrive. But Teancum respected his leader too much to be a burden on his leader. Remember that! Instead, Teancum spent time “casting up walls round about and preparing places of resort for his men” so when the time came to go to battle their enlarged army would have extra protection (Alma 52:6).
After the battle, charged with taking prisoners to the city of Bountiful, Teancum was given additional orders by Moroni to fortify the city when he got there. Rather than complain that he already had prisoners to guard, Teancum devised a plan to put the prisoners to work. And they dug a ditch “round about the land, or the city, Bountiful. And he caused that they should build a breastwork of timbers upon the inner bank of the ditch, and they cast up dirt out of a the ditch against the breastwork of timbers….until they had encircled the city of Bountiful round about with a strong wall of timbers and earth, to an exceeding height” (Alma 53:3-4).
And then this comment about Teancum’s work that we forget: “And this city became an exceeding stronghold ever after” (Alma 53:5).
WOW! Ever after is a long legacy to leave behind for the blessing of others and Teancum did just that. How many of us can claim the same?
We don’t know if Teancum was older or younger than Captain Moroni but we do know this—no matter what his age, when his leader asked him to do something, Teancum didn’t complain, didn’t grumble, didn’t avoid the project. He rolled up his sleeves and honored his leaders by his actions. Do we do the same? And what about when our parents or loved ones ask us to do something we don’t want to do? Are we going to join the camp of Laman and Lemuel and complain and say it is a hard thing, it doesn’t fit my lifestyle, it’s not something I want to do? Or do we follow Teancum’s example and do the harder right?
In the end we learn that Teancum really was a stud. Teancum didn’t complain. He didn’t just nod and listen with half attention to the advice of his leaders. He didn’t wait until 'tomorrow'—until after he’d had his fun, 'found' himself, had his rest or watched his favorite team on T.V. This chief captain who had “suffered very many exceedingly sore afflictions” didn’t quit, didn’t wait, didn’t grumble, didn’t make up excuses (Alma 62:37). He didn’t justify or rationalize his way out of the “harder right”. He gave everything he had today and when he died both Moroni and Lehi “were exceedingly sorrowful” (Alma 62:37). That isn’t said often in the scriptures, nor is it often expressed by two great leaders. Both Captain Moroni, whose strength of character could “shake the very powers of Hell”--and Lehi, a man “like unto Moroni” who captained “the men of Lehi” felt sorrow on the death of this great man (see Alma 48 and 53:2).
Despite his personal weaknesses, Teancum was a great man. He was a great example then and now and accomplished tremendous things.
Yes, I can see why that youth said, "Teancum was a stud!"
Without hesitation, one young man piped up, “Teancum was a stud!”
At that time I remember thinking, he doesn’t know the whole story or—if he does—he doesn’t understand it. After all, Teancum died killing Ammoron in personal anger. His downfall came because instead of doing something for God he went and did something for himself. Physically and spiritually Teancum, as the scriptures record, “had gone the way of all the earth” (Alma 62:37). He had, I felt, lowered himself to the plane of the world.
Yet, over the years, my student’s statement has refused to leave me and now I realize maybe I didn’t know the whole story—maybe I didn’t understand it. Maybe my student was right. Maybe Teancum, even with his imperfections, “was a stud” and we would all be better members if we learned from his example.
Be the kind of person leaders will call on. When Captain Moroni couldn’t be there to physically stop the people of Morianton from fleeing north he called for Teancum. He trusted this Nephite military leader to do the job he couldn’t…a job that if Teancum failed would “lead to the overthrow of their liberty” (Alma 50:32). Moroni knew the consequences of failure and there was only one man he chose to call.
When our son broke his back in two places while playing football my husband was hundreds of miles away, involved in meetings. In those frantic first hours, when he couldn’t be there to give our son a blessing, my husband made a phone call to the one person he trusted enough to stand in for him as a father. That man did not hesitate and gave our son a powerful blessing, paving the way for the Spirit to calm us and give us reassurance for our son’s recovery.
There are many people you can trust with various jobs in life. There are only a handful of people you will ever trust to represent YOU fully and completely. Be that kind of person. When spiritual or physical liberty is at stake, have the strength of character that shows you will stand firm in the call. Be the kind of person leaders will actually call on. Teancum was.
Be the kind of person who builds and strengthens others. The scriptures tell us that Teancum and his men “were great warriors; for every man of Teancum did exceed the Lamanites in their strength and in their skill of war” (Alma 51:31).
The scripture notes that every man was better than the enemy…not just some of them. How does that happen?
Now it is possible that Teancum was assigned a hand-picked army of elite fighters who just happened, every man, to be bigger and stronger and better than the enemy; but chances are far more likely that Teancum had a mixture of men and ability in his army. That means, in order to make sure every man exceeded the Lamanites, Teancum worked with what he had. He taught, he trained, he encouraged—he exampled the kind of warrior these men eventually became. He built them up from what they were until every man did exceed the enemy in their strength and skill of war. That takes time and commitment and vision…the vision of seeing what other people can become. Not everyone can see that, even in themselves. Teancum not only saw potential in every man in his army, he worked to help them reach that potential.
Be the kind of person who actually does something--today. We all say it--tomorrow I’m going to start my diet. Tomorrow I’m going clean that closet. Tomorrow I’m going to start reading my scriptures again. Tomorrow I am going to get my life in order and prepare for a mission/temple marriage/(fill in the blank).
Most of us talk as if talking actually counts.
Action is what actually gets the job done.
We are admonished to “be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). Teancum understood that. He wasn’t merely a hearer or a talker. He wasn’t simply thinking about doing something. He didn’t just listen and nod to the task he’d been given to stop the Lamanite army. He was a doer—even when others felt they had done enough.
After a tremendous, day-long battle with no clear victor, the Lamanites were overpowered with fatigue and heat; yet Teancum and his men did not rest even though they had been in the same battle. Teancum and a companion, dealing with the emotional and physical aftermath of battle, “stole forth and went out by night, and went into the camp of Amalickiah…(and Teancum) stole privily into the tent of the king…and did cause the death of the king” (Alma 51:34). He then returned to his own camp, awoke his tired men and, despite their fatigue, they all stood in readiness to fight again (Alma 51:33-36). Even though rest was sorely needed and would have been easier, Teancum didn’t wait for tomorrow to stop the king. He did it that very day and, because he did, the entire battle ended when the Lamanites discovered their slain king.
Stop, for a moment, and think of how many more lives would have ended if Teancum had decided to wait and stop the king ‘tomorrow’. How many more families would have been devastated? Teancum was tired, he had lost those he loved in that battle, he may even have been wounded himself, yet he pushed forward and did what he had been asked to do…understanding the urgency of doing it now. He didn't wait until it was convenient or better suited him, personally.
Now think, for a moment, the damage your spiritual rest may be causing others. Should you be resting? Do you understand the urgency of doing it now? Are you a Teancum--up and doing even when you have a million reasons not to? Or are you like Amalickiah--asleep in your tent?
Be the kind of person who works--even when there is reason not to. There was a time when the enemy outnumbered Teancum’s army. More troops were coming to help and Teancum could have simply sat back waited for Captain Moroni’s men to arrive. But Teancum respected his leader too much to be a burden on his leader. Remember that! Instead, Teancum spent time “casting up walls round about and preparing places of resort for his men” so when the time came to go to battle their enlarged army would have extra protection (Alma 52:6).
After the battle, charged with taking prisoners to the city of Bountiful, Teancum was given additional orders by Moroni to fortify the city when he got there. Rather than complain that he already had prisoners to guard, Teancum devised a plan to put the prisoners to work. And they dug a ditch “round about the land, or the city, Bountiful. And he caused that they should build a breastwork of timbers upon the inner bank of the ditch, and they cast up dirt out of a the ditch against the breastwork of timbers….until they had encircled the city of Bountiful round about with a strong wall of timbers and earth, to an exceeding height” (Alma 53:3-4).
And then this comment about Teancum’s work that we forget: “And this city became an exceeding stronghold ever after” (Alma 53:5).
WOW! Ever after is a long legacy to leave behind for the blessing of others and Teancum did just that. How many of us can claim the same?
We don’t know if Teancum was older or younger than Captain Moroni but we do know this—no matter what his age, when his leader asked him to do something, Teancum didn’t complain, didn’t grumble, didn’t avoid the project. He rolled up his sleeves and honored his leaders by his actions. Do we do the same? And what about when our parents or loved ones ask us to do something we don’t want to do? Are we going to join the camp of Laman and Lemuel and complain and say it is a hard thing, it doesn’t fit my lifestyle, it’s not something I want to do? Or do we follow Teancum’s example and do the harder right?
In the end we learn that Teancum really was a stud. Teancum didn’t complain. He didn’t just nod and listen with half attention to the advice of his leaders. He didn’t wait until 'tomorrow'—until after he’d had his fun, 'found' himself, had his rest or watched his favorite team on T.V. This chief captain who had “suffered very many exceedingly sore afflictions” didn’t quit, didn’t wait, didn’t grumble, didn’t make up excuses (Alma 62:37). He didn’t justify or rationalize his way out of the “harder right”. He gave everything he had today and when he died both Moroni and Lehi “were exceedingly sorrowful” (Alma 62:37). That isn’t said often in the scriptures, nor is it often expressed by two great leaders. Both Captain Moroni, whose strength of character could “shake the very powers of Hell”--and Lehi, a man “like unto Moroni” who captained “the men of Lehi” felt sorrow on the death of this great man (see Alma 48 and 53:2).
Despite his personal weaknesses, Teancum was a great man. He was a great example then and now and accomplished tremendous things.
Yes, I can see why that youth said, "Teancum was a stud!"
Sunday, March 20, 2016
What Christ Shared During His Final Week of Mortal Life
The Savior gave us the perfect pattern. His last week of mortal life was filled with examples of what to do and what to say. His last week also tells us a lot about who He was and what was important to Him.
Where did He spend His time? During the day He spent most of His time at the temple. At night He would return to the home of Mary, Martha and Lazarus in Bethany and spent quiet hours there with those He loved. Spiritual connection and time with family and friends was paramount to Him.
During His last week of life He also gave us some of the greatest council He had. The parable of the 10 Virgins reminds us we have a responsibility to be personally ready to see Him. The parable of the 10 Talents reminds us to use what we have been given for good.
But do we also realize He gave us the wonderful parable of the Goats and Sheep?
I’ve owned goats and I’ve owned sheep and, personally, I would rather own the goats--so why do the goats wind up on the left and the sheep on the right? If you research it, anciently goats and sheep were very equal. They both gave meat and milk and leather. Goat hair was used to cover the tabernacle. Sheep wool was used to weave cloth. They also both played important roles in the law of sacrifice. So why the difference?
Maybe, as a rancher pointed out to me, it’s because sheep are willing to listen to and be led by a shepherd. Goats are too independent. They are always exploring places they shouldn’t and getting into trouble. The right hand of the Savior is the right hand of power…priesthood power and leadership responsibilities. If you aren’t willing to follow the Savior then how can He use you to lead others?
During his last week of life, Christ also gave us the parable of the two sons. Their father asked them for help in his vineyard. One said ‘no way’ and left, then later had a change of heart and came back. The other son said, ‘sure, I’ll do it’ and then never did. Which of the two did the will of his father? The DO-er. In his last week of life, Christ was reminding us He wants DO-ers of the word. It is not enough to say you profess Christ. You must be willing to DO as He has asked—keep His commandments and follow His example. He is also telling us a change of heart is never too late if it helps us return and DO our Father’s will.
Christ taught about the apostasy and restoration on several occasions during His last week. One time was with the parable of the wicked husbandman who killed, beat and stoned the servants of the lord of the vineyard. So the lord of the vineyard sent his son, saying the husbandman would reverence him. Yet the son was captured and killed. Then Christ asked, “When the lord therefore of the vineyard cometh, what will he do?....He will...destroy those wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their season” (Matthew 21:40-41). He was testifying that the vineyard, the Gospel, would be taken from the Jews and give to another. Through the restoration of the Gospel, that prophecy has been fulfilled.
And the parable of the Wedding of the King’s Son, given His last week, is also powerful in its testimony of an apostasy and a restoration with the wedding being a metaphor for the Gospel. When the King invited his people to the wedding of his Son “they would not come….and they made light of it and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise” (Matthew 22:5). They got too caught up in worldly pursuits--they were too busy to attend to frivolous things like weddings and religion.
“And some took the King’s servants and entreated them spitefully and slew them so He destroyed the murderers and burned up their city and sent out new servants to gather together all, as many as they found” (Matthew 22:6-7, 9-10). And these came to the feast and were properly dressed and ready.
The Gospel is for "all" as Christ testified. The problem, Christ taught, was when an intruder was found. Either this intruder did not enter with authority of the King or he disrespected that authority and chose not to prepare properly. God’s kingdom is based on keeping commandments and His authority and all who do not make the effort to enter by the strait gate will not be permitted. It was after this parable that Christ announced, “For many are called but few are chosen” (Matthew 22:14).
In his final days, Christ also taught us to keep the law of the land; He spoke on eternal marriage, forgiveness, repentance and the resurrection. He answered which was the greatest commandment of the law. “Thou shalt love the Lord they God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets” (Matthew 22:37-40).
Anyone preaching hate does not understand this powerful truth...on the commandment of loving God AND our neighbors hang all the law and the prophets!
Christ taught service “For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in….Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? Or thirsty, and gave thee drink? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matthew 25: 35, 37 and 40).
Christ also expressed his view on poverty and his love and respect for the poor. He intentionally called over his disciples to tell them of the widow’s mite and teach them and us, “For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living” (Mark 12:44). He knows how difficult it is for the poor. That is one reason He cleansed the temple during His final week and specifically overthrew “the seats of them that sold doves” (Matt. 21:12). From the beginning of the Mosaic Law the Lord had made provisions for the poor to offer sacrifices of doves when they could afford nothing more. His own earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, had brought doves to the temple when Christ was born. He understood poverty…He lived poverty...and He understood that there were many who would “devour widows’ houses” and in His temple He would not let that take place. There would be no profit made off the selling of doves to the poor. The poor would have access to the temple as they should, so he cleansed the temple and then, with love and tenderness, watched the results. It was after he cleansed the temple that the widow woman offered her two mites.
Christ also taught us, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you” (John 13:34).
He promised peace…”Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).
Of course, the Savior offered the great Intercessory Prayer. “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3). To know the Father AND the Son, both, is life eternal.
It was during His final hours we learn of Christ’s plea and His commitment to His Father in Heaven, no matter how difficult it was for Christ personally. “Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine be done” (Luke 22:42). Do we truly have that attitude? Or do we place limits on following Him?
And, during this prayer came one of the most touching verses in all scripture: “And he said, Abba, Father…” . In English the closest thing we have to this tender term, Abba, is “Daddy”.
During His last week of life, Christ reminded Peter of the Savior's earlier charge to “his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ” (Matthew 16:20). He knew bold, courageous Peter would willingly die with the Savior rather than deny Him. During His final night in mortality, the Savior lovingly told Peter “thou shalt deny me”. It wasn't a prophecy of Peter's weakness...it was a command for Peter to follow! Christ needed Peter to stay away that night and stay alive to lead the flock forward.
Peter--the disciple brave enough to climb over the edge of a ship and step onto water for the Savior.
Peter--the disciple bold enough to draw his sword and strike out to protect the Savior in face of 1,000 soldiers.
Peter--the committed disciple did as the Savior instructed and wept bitterly----for keeping his word to the Savior on that dark night was the hardest thing he had ever done. But Peter did as the Savior asked and we are blessed for it.
On His last night on earth Christ also washed the feet of all His disciples, He called Judas “Friend”. He told his disciples to put away their swords then He healed the ear of Malchus, the servant of Caiaphus—the Jew leading the charges against the Savior. Christ loved His enemies, served His enemies, helped heal His enemies. He reached out with love to those who would wound Him.
He allowed the crowd to exchange His divine life for that of Barabbas. And you know He felt no ill toward Barabbas.
Christ plead for the forgiveness of the soldiers.
Christ taught Pilate.
Christ gave hope to a criminal on the cross.
He ensured his mother was cared for.
He commended His spirit to His Father, trusting His Father’s will completely.
Despite the physical, spiritual and emotional anguish...He completed His work.
When He died the veil of the temple was rent in grief, the sun darkened in sorrow and the earth quaked in agony. All of nature knew who had died in that moment and gave the world their testimonies.
And the next morning Heavenly angels gave a new testimony. “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said” (Matthew 28:6).
I add my testimony to that…Christ is who He says He is: He is the Son of God. He has broken the bands of death and is resurrected. Because of Christ, Eternal Life is possible for everyone, our sins can be forgiven, and families can be together forever.
Image from Google Images. Jesus Christ, The Son of God. The "Learn of Me" video series from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, at LDS.org.
Sunday, February 21, 2016
My Dream of The Tree of Life...and what I'm still learning from it.
The man didn’t even know he’d been turned off the path. He took less than two steps on the wrong course and was swallowed completely by the mists of darkness. I wanted to go off the path to retrieve him but I was constrained and told I could not leave the path to retrieve anyone who had strayed. The only way I could help them was to stay on the path.
When I woke up I was horrified thinking that youthful missionary exuberance might cause someone to deviate from the path to the Tree of Life. I used that dream as a warning to be very careful in my actions and behavior. Even as a missionary I did not want to accidentally offend someone and send them away from the Gospel.
Later, as an adult, I began to notice another part of the dream…the man's disappearance into the darkness. I was stunned by how fast he was completely obscured from sight and I began to feel gratitude for that part of my dream that forbid me from going after the man. In the dream I remember thinking I could just step a foot or two off the path, reach into the darkness and grab him and bring him back. But I was clearly told I could not leave the path for anyone or I, too, would be lost just as quickly. Satan changed the mists for each person and it was folly to think I could step off the path for even a short distance and find my way back. The only way to help him—or anyone in the darkness—was to stay on the path and let my light illuminate the thick and dark mists.
I know the temptation can be strong to think we can step off the path a foot of two and reach out into the darkness and save someone we love. As an adult I have seen couples fall into this trap. One partner begins to feel they need or prefer to do other things on Sunday than go to Church. The other partner, in an attempt to “save” their marriage, decides to step off the path just a step or two thinking they can rescue their partner that way. So both begin to stay home on Sunday together. In the beginning it may appear to help their marriage, but this deviation from the path the Lord has set never works. Soon they stop holding Family Home Evening, praying, reading the scriptures, even discussing spiritual things and the mists of darkness begin to thicken around them Eventually those mists of darkness not only envelope them, they begin to surround the minds and morals of their children.
In my own life, as some of my children have decided to leave the path, I want to reach into their darkness and grab them and pull them back onto the path but I realize you can't force someone on to the path. I also realize, even more than ever, that despite their increasing wanderings I cannot lessen my own commitment. I cannot agree with their reasons or nod in acceptance of their visions. I need to stay on the path the Lord has set and pray that one day the mists of darkness clouding their minds will lift just enough that they will see the light of those on the path and start to move toward the light again.
But the wanderings of my own children have also brought to my focus on another part of my dream from years ago. That of the man’s own role in his disappearance into the mists of darkness.
The man who was jostled was looking down at his own feet when it happened. Even in my original dream his focus on his feet bothered me, but I didn’t know why. I told myself maybe he was just being careful with each step he took.
However, years later, I know why it bothered me. He was so focused on his own feet, his own progress…that he never looked up. He never glanced up at the Tree…he was not looking long-term. In fact, he was so focused on the very next step he was going to take that he never even knew he had been jostled and turned. He honestly did not realize that self-correction in his life was necessary. He was blind even before he was lost.
We can get so caught up in what we are doing in our own lives that we become blind to what is spiritually going on around us. We have a personal responsibility to look up. We have a responsibility to keep our eyes focused on eternal goals, not our next earthly step. If we are jostled by something in our lives (and we will ALL be jostled at some point), we have a personal responsibility to keep our eye on the Lord. We have a responsibility to look up and self-correct. If we come across something that does not square with our view, maybe our view isn’t where it is supposed to be. Maybe we’ve forgotten the real reason we are doing all that we do.
Elder Kevin W. Pearson understands why we must look up. He understands that we need to stay focused on the Tree of Life and not be distracted by the mists of the devil around us. He understands that we need to be fully committed in our long-term journey. “Average is the Enemy of Excellence,” he notes. Average disciples look down at their feet. Committed disciples look to the Lord. Here is the clip. Stay by the Tree
Sunday, January 31, 2016
I have long been intrigued by the term “fiery darts” in the scriptures. It’s a tiny term and only shows up four times in the scriptures but its presence, each time, is very powerful.
We read about “taking the shield of faith,” in Ephesians 6:16 so that we will “be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” A similar scripture is found in D&C 27:17 when the Lord is instructing the Saints about the sacrament and then He reminds them of the armor of God, telling them to take, “the shield of faith wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”
Then, in 1 Nephi 16:24 we read, “And whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them.”
Finally, in D&C 3:7-8, we learn after Joseph Smith lost the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon, “For, behold, you should not have feared man more than God. Although men set at naught the counsels of God, and despise his words—Yet you should have been faithful; and he would have extended his arm and supported you against all the fiery darts of the adversary; and he would have been with you in every time of trouble.”
When this term of fiery darts first intrigued me I did what I always did…I went searching for more information. I learned that flames have been part of warfare since man could hurl a burning stick or light an enemy field on fire. I also learned that, in ancient warfare, one very effective tactic was for the enemy to line up his archers and have them shoot several volleys of flaming arrows or smaller, lighter “fiery darts” at the opposing ranks.
These smaller, incendiary arrows or darts were soaked in resin or oil. Some may have had small flammable cloths or fibers, called “tow”, wrapped around the shaft. They were shot from bows with loose strings since too swift of a flight could put out the flames. Because of that these arrows didn’t travel fast or very far. They weren’t very big, either…many were simply ‘darts’…smaller arrows…but they played a major role in the battle.
These fiery darts were often the first assault tactic deployed, and for good reason. As the flaming envoys rained down on the enemy they would ignite fires behind the lines. The ground, supply wagons, tents, even buildings behind city walls were at risk of catching fire and being destroyed.
Now, if you were waiting for a battle to begin and had an important supply wagon next to you catch fire, what would you do? You would try to put it out to protect the supplies and minimize the damage—and that is just what the enemy wanted. While everyone was running around trying to put out the fires he had started, they didn’t see that real battle was approaching.
With the ranks distracted by these fires, the enemy general could then move his battle archers and javelin throwers into position, order in his cavalry and charioteers, and march in his heavy infantry, well-trained foot soldiers and axe-men. Busy with the ‘fiery darts of the adversary’ those targeted were now disorganized, distracted and at a very dangerous disadvantage. They didn’t see, and weren’t prepared to face, the real battle coming their way.
Satan has employed that very tactic today. He is sending in small fiery darts all around us as a distraction. Yes, these fiery darts can cause lots of fires and distress, but we must remember they are only the small, first wave of attack. We must never forget that they are not the real attack but a small tool Satan is using to divert us from a greater threat: his ever-advancing ranks. That’s why we need the whole armor of God, not just a shield. That is why we need to hearken to the word of God, not man's, and hold fast to what God says. He sees the entire battle. He knows where Satan is positioning his ranks next. He, and He alone, is the voice we must heed on the battle front.
If we do that, He will support us. He will “go before you…and be your rereward” (Isaiah 52:12).
In the video below, Elder Robert D. Hales shares thoughts about putting on the armor of God.
Put on the Whole Armor of God
Image courtesy of freebibleimages.org
We read about “taking the shield of faith,” in Ephesians 6:16 so that we will “be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” A similar scripture is found in D&C 27:17 when the Lord is instructing the Saints about the sacrament and then He reminds them of the armor of God, telling them to take, “the shield of faith wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”
Then, in 1 Nephi 16:24 we read, “And whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them.”
Finally, in D&C 3:7-8, we learn after Joseph Smith lost the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon, “For, behold, you should not have feared man more than God. Although men set at naught the counsels of God, and despise his words—Yet you should have been faithful; and he would have extended his arm and supported you against all the fiery darts of the adversary; and he would have been with you in every time of trouble.”
When this term of fiery darts first intrigued me I did what I always did…I went searching for more information. I learned that flames have been part of warfare since man could hurl a burning stick or light an enemy field on fire. I also learned that, in ancient warfare, one very effective tactic was for the enemy to line up his archers and have them shoot several volleys of flaming arrows or smaller, lighter “fiery darts” at the opposing ranks.
These smaller, incendiary arrows or darts were soaked in resin or oil. Some may have had small flammable cloths or fibers, called “tow”, wrapped around the shaft. They were shot from bows with loose strings since too swift of a flight could put out the flames. Because of that these arrows didn’t travel fast or very far. They weren’t very big, either…many were simply ‘darts’…smaller arrows…but they played a major role in the battle.
These fiery darts were often the first assault tactic deployed, and for good reason. As the flaming envoys rained down on the enemy they would ignite fires behind the lines. The ground, supply wagons, tents, even buildings behind city walls were at risk of catching fire and being destroyed.
Now, if you were waiting for a battle to begin and had an important supply wagon next to you catch fire, what would you do? You would try to put it out to protect the supplies and minimize the damage—and that is just what the enemy wanted. While everyone was running around trying to put out the fires he had started, they didn’t see that real battle was approaching.
With the ranks distracted by these fires, the enemy general could then move his battle archers and javelin throwers into position, order in his cavalry and charioteers, and march in his heavy infantry, well-trained foot soldiers and axe-men. Busy with the ‘fiery darts of the adversary’ those targeted were now disorganized, distracted and at a very dangerous disadvantage. They didn’t see, and weren’t prepared to face, the real battle coming their way.
Satan has employed that very tactic today. He is sending in small fiery darts all around us as a distraction. Yes, these fiery darts can cause lots of fires and distress, but we must remember they are only the small, first wave of attack. We must never forget that they are not the real attack but a small tool Satan is using to divert us from a greater threat: his ever-advancing ranks. That’s why we need the whole armor of God, not just a shield. That is why we need to hearken to the word of God, not man's, and hold fast to what God says. He sees the entire battle. He knows where Satan is positioning his ranks next. He, and He alone, is the voice we must heed on the battle front.
If we do that, He will support us. He will “go before you…and be your rereward” (Isaiah 52:12).
In the video below, Elder Robert D. Hales shares thoughts about putting on the armor of God.
Put on the Whole Armor of God
Image courtesy of freebibleimages.org
Thursday, January 7, 2016
New year
New year. New haircut. New look to my blog.
New accomplishments to make.
This week, with my nursing classes set to begin in earnest in a few days, I finally made the decision to cut my hair short. I needed a style that would look professional all day long. In 53 years I’ve only had my hair cut short twice--(and neither time was pleasant)--so this was a big decision for me and my family.
But I’m glad now that I did it. In fact, I don’t ever plan to let my hair grow long again.
I argued with myself about going short for months. In the bathroom I’d lift my hair above my shoulders to ‘see’ what it would look like. (It doesn't work.) I looked at different haircuts and read about what kind of cuts were best for women over 50. I talked to friends who had short hair to see if it was difficult to maintain and how they first felt when they went short. I had my family look at photos of short hairstyles to get their input.
Yet, despite all that, nothing really satisfied my questions.
Finally I realized I wouldn’t know if I liked short hair on me until I actually committed and did something about…not a sort-of-mid-length cut but an all-out, above the shoulders, full-throttle commitment.
So I did.
When those first snips sounded in my ears…way up high on my neck…I was a bit rattled. My mind was screaming ‘that’s too short!’ But I knew I had made my choice and I couldn’t bolt from the chair now. So I did what any committed grownup would do. I clenched my jaw and closed my eyes.
For the next twenty minutes I barely looked at myself in the mirror. After she finished I will admit I wasn’t sure how I felt about it. It was a big change and sometimes it takes a while to adjust to big changes. Now, after a few days of getting used to the new person staring back at me from the mirror, I’m starting to enjoy the cut. It looks professional. It is easy to care for and it stays in place all day long. (Plus several people have told me it makes me look younger than before, so that helps, too!)
Some decisions in life are like that haircut. We can toss them around mentally for months or years. We can research them from every angle, ask questions, seek feedback, even dip our toe in the water to try things out from the safety of the shore. All the important things. But, until we actually DO something, until we actually make a commitment…an all-out, full-throttle commitment, we will never know for sure.
So, if there is an idea you’ve been tossing around, maybe this is the year to commit. Not a toe-in-the-water test but a full-throttle commitment.
You may like the new person staring back at you.
New accomplishments to make.
This week, with my nursing classes set to begin in earnest in a few days, I finally made the decision to cut my hair short. I needed a style that would look professional all day long. In 53 years I’ve only had my hair cut short twice--(and neither time was pleasant)--so this was a big decision for me and my family.
But I’m glad now that I did it. In fact, I don’t ever plan to let my hair grow long again.
I argued with myself about going short for months. In the bathroom I’d lift my hair above my shoulders to ‘see’ what it would look like. (It doesn't work.) I looked at different haircuts and read about what kind of cuts were best for women over 50. I talked to friends who had short hair to see if it was difficult to maintain and how they first felt when they went short. I had my family look at photos of short hairstyles to get their input.
Yet, despite all that, nothing really satisfied my questions.
Finally I realized I wouldn’t know if I liked short hair on me until I actually committed and did something about…not a sort-of-mid-length cut but an all-out, above the shoulders, full-throttle commitment.
So I did.
When those first snips sounded in my ears…way up high on my neck…I was a bit rattled. My mind was screaming ‘that’s too short!’ But I knew I had made my choice and I couldn’t bolt from the chair now. So I did what any committed grownup would do. I clenched my jaw and closed my eyes.
For the next twenty minutes I barely looked at myself in the mirror. After she finished I will admit I wasn’t sure how I felt about it. It was a big change and sometimes it takes a while to adjust to big changes. Now, after a few days of getting used to the new person staring back at me from the mirror, I’m starting to enjoy the cut. It looks professional. It is easy to care for and it stays in place all day long. (Plus several people have told me it makes me look younger than before, so that helps, too!)
Some decisions in life are like that haircut. We can toss them around mentally for months or years. We can research them from every angle, ask questions, seek feedback, even dip our toe in the water to try things out from the safety of the shore. All the important things. But, until we actually DO something, until we actually make a commitment…an all-out, full-throttle commitment, we will never know for sure.
So, if there is an idea you’ve been tossing around, maybe this is the year to commit. Not a toe-in-the-water test but a full-throttle commitment.
You may like the new person staring back at you.
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Who is a Modern-day Captain Moroni?
They say the Book of Mormon was written for our day. I believe that. Take a look at this event recorded in Alma 45 and 46.
“For behold, because of their wars with the Lamanites and the many little dissensions and disturbances which had been among the people, it became expedient that the word of God should be declared among them, yea, and that a regulation should be made throughout the church” (Alma 45:21).
Oh, my gosh. That sure sounds like our current situation in the church with the new regulation or guideline. It was sent out for a reason…because of "wars" with the world and little dissensions and disturbances throughout the church.
So I kept reading with increased interest. Then it gets really interesting. I won’t quote the verses in their entirety but, briefly put, “there arose a dissension among them (the members) and they would not give heed to the words….and they were exceedingly wroth.”
Some of the members of the ancient church did not like the new regulation. Sound familiar? According to the Book of Mormon, some of the members began listening to the words of others and the upset members gathered together to express their disapproval.
To try and resolve the issue, Helaman and his brethren began to reteach them the doctrine—which is exactly what the church has done. Yet, “Notwithstanding the preaching of Helaman and his brethren, yea, notwithstanding their exceedingly great care over the church…there were many in the church who ….dissented even from the church.”
And we have seen that very thing recently...but that is not the part I want to dwell on. I want to share with you what happened next.
A young active member, who was only about 26 at the time, rent his coat “and wrote upon it—‘In the memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children—and he fastened it upon the end of a pole.” Young Captain Moroni chose to stand with the prophet and the brethren in trying remind the people of a greater purpose. This young leader used his words to remind everyone why we are doing this whole gospel thing--for God and eternal families.
Today the men and women of the Church—especially the young members—have power at their fingertips to be like a modern Captain Moroni. They can use the internet to write powerful words like Captain Moroni reminding others of why we do the things we do. Our posts are not to satisfy our own egos and beliefs, nor defend our own monocular vision. We should be showing the Lord that we know His standards and we are willing to stand by them even if the rest of the world (which may include some of our own family members), have forgotten the purpose of our existence or have been misled by the words of others.
And the scriptures record that because of Moroni's words, “the people came running together with their armor girded about their loins, rending their garments in token, or as a covenant.”
In ancient Israeli tradition, clothes were tied to the character of your soul. To rend another’s clothes was the ultimate insult. To rend your own, the ultimate voice.
So, led by young Captain Moroni's example, the members joined together to defend their lifestyle before the world. It wasn’t easy, for the scriptures tell us those dissenters had joined the Lamanites and “they became more hardened and impenitent than the Lamanites.” Remember, these were not faceless dissenters. They were loved family members and friends. What a heartbreak the members must have felt yet they held firm to the truths they knew.
And Moroni held firm as well, even though some of those dissenters must have been known and very dear to him, too. He heard their words and their accusations yet, instead, he focused on “preparing the minds of the people to be faith unto the Lord their God.” He helped the members fortify their weakest areas so that they could “support their liberty, their lands, their wives, and their children, and their peace, and that they might live unto the Lord their God.”
Again, those with the internet at their fingertips can and should do that. They should turn their words and their efforts to fortifying, not destroying. (The hidden power of the internet is in what it says about the writer! What we write about, what we say in our posts and our comments leaves a trail that tells people more about us than the topic we select.)
Interestingly, Paul understood that youth could be powerful influences for good when he wrote to young Timothy, “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (I Timothy 4:12). It is not a coincidence that this advice was given while Paul was teaching the young man about the last days! Even today, as the last days darken around us, the youthful bloggers and writers on the internet can be powerful influences for good.
Young Captain Moroni changed the outcome of an entire nation by the words he chose to write—by the stand with the Lord he chose to make. Then comes the most powerful tribute to a mortal man ever given in all of scripture. “And Moroni was a strong and a mighty man; he was a man of perfect understanding; yea, a man that did not delight in bloodshed; a man whose soul did joy in the liberty and the freedom of his country, and his brethren from bondage and slavery;
“Yea, a man whose heart did swell with thanksgiving to his God, for the many privileges and blessings which he bestowed upon his people; a man who did labor exceedingly for the welfare and safety of his people.
“Yea, and he was a man who was firm in the faith of Christ, and he had sworn with an oath to defend his people, his rights, and his country, and his religion, even to the loss of is blood…
“Yea, verily, verily I say unto you, if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, behold, the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yea, the devil would never have power of the hearts of the children of men” (Alma 48:11-13 and 17).
How grateful I am for the young men and women who choose to stand by the Lord in the face of dissension. It is hard for them, I know, but if even one person says of them what Mormon said of Captain Moroni, their courage and voice has been heard and the powers of hell have been shaken.
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Prophets Foresaw the Effects of the Internet
After reading Ezekiel 37:15-17, which talks about the stick of Judah and the stick of Ephraim becoming “one in thine hand”, a sister in Sunday School shared this thought. She held up her smart phone and commented, “They truly are one in my hand. I can hold the scriptures right here--in one hand. That prophecy is being fulfilled."
Another prophecy being fulfilled in our day is found in Isaiah. “And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity and out of darkness” (Isaiah 29:18). Thanks to modern advancements in science, medicine and technology many of the deaf and blind are able to see and hear the truth for themselves.
But the prophets also foresaw other events in our days that are not as wonderful. They warned us that in the last days even the very elect will be deceived. And how will they be deceived? Paul may have been on to something when he wrote his second letter to Timothy.
“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good; Having a form of godliness but deny the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses and lead captive silly women (and men) laden with sins…ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth” (2 Timothy 3:1-7).
He foresaw a day when these “despisers of those that are good” will “creep into houses” and lead people astray. What better scriptural description do we have of the internet than that!
Everything on the internet is free to "creep" into our house at any time and lead us into spiritual captivity. Where we go on the internet and what we choose to study and learn may lump us into that group which Paul said was “ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” Do we use our time on the internet to feast on the truth or graze on what the world has to say?
Even earlier than Paul the prophet Amos testified, “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it” (Amos 8:11-12).
Daniel also testified in the last days that “many shall run to and fro” in their search for knowledge (Daniel 12:4). Yes, the internet truly allows us to run to and fro, from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east without leaving our homes; yet this ability, Amos, said would leave us famished for the word of the Lord…not because it isn’t on the internet but because we are looking in all the wrong places.
Paul again taught the youthful Timothy (which is apropos for our youth), “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned onto fables.” (2 Timothy 4:3-4)
With this easy access to knowledge in the palm of our hands we can be ‘turned onto fables’; we can get caught up in media frenzies and internet firestorms. It takes a wise man, indeed, to know where not to go and what not to read.
Not all knowledge or sources are equal. Having over 30 years of journalism experience I know the value of checking my sources. I have also learned this powerful truth: the source and the substance will tell me the motive.
Any source or any substance that tears down the belief of another person or shakes their faith should be avoided. Some people, however, think it is their obligation to share with others the negative they have ‘discovered’ about a religion in an effort to save other people from it. Their attitude just goes back to what Paul said about some being "lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud…” They obviously love their own intelligence enough to they think they are doing a stranger a great service by sharing the negative and shaking that person’s faith. These "accusers", as Paul called them are, in truth, fulfilling prophecy. “And their word will eat as doeth a canker….and overthrow the faith of some” (2 Timothy 2:17-18).
We also know that in the last days grievous wolves shall enter among the Lord's Church, “not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:29-30).
Hosea prophesied more specifically about what would happen to the tribe of Ephraim. He foresaw that there would be members of the Church who “have made ready their heart like an oven…they are all hot as an oven and have devoured their judges” (Hosea 7:6-7). He saw our day--when members would be ready to criticize and condemn the Church and its leaders and they are doing it now--in church hallways, on blogs and internet forums, to friends and strangers and anyone who will click on their link.
Hosea explained why the members would become this way. “Ephraim, he hath mixed himself among the people…strangers have devoured his strength, and he knoweth it not….they do no return to the Lord their God….(instead) they call to Egypt, they go to Assyria” (Hosea 7:8-9 and 11).
When the call comes to follow the Lord God, these members check out what the internet is saying first. They check out the headlines. They align themselves with the clamor of world who cry ‘that is not what the Savior would do!’
Does the world, bathed in sin, really know what the Savior would do?
“Woe unto them!” Hosea proclaimed. “For they have fled from me: destruction unto them! Because they have transgressed against me; though I have redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me. And they have not cried unto me with their heart…. Though I have bound and strengthened their arms, yet do they imagine mischief against me….their princes shall fall by the sword for the rage of their tongue” (Hosea 7:13-14 and 16).
What a perfect description of members on the internet who rage with their keyboard tongues…who repeat the lies they have heard others speak…who have imagined mischief by the Church and its leaders. They have not cried long enough unto God with their hearts. Instead, they have found their quick ‘answers’ on the internet. They would rather return to the flesh pots of Egypt than to eat the unchanging manna of the Lord’s truth. They think, as does the world, that the Lord should change His commandments to keep up with the times.
Hosea warned, “They shall not dwell in the Lord’s land; but Ephraim shall return to Egypt, and they shall eat unclean things in Assyria….Egypt shall gather them up, Memphis shall bury them.”
Thankfully, Paul told us what we need to do to stay strong during these times. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings; for they will increase unto more ungodliness.”
We do need to study…the scriptures and the words of the prophets. We need to rightly divide the word of truth from the sullied version of the world, and we need to avoid anything that would shake our faith. So, in a vast internet world, how do we decide what to study?
Indeed, the Prophet Joseph Smith taught, “We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul…If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.”
We need to drink deep from the fountain of pure light and truth. We need to speak kindness and love even if we disagree. Above all, we are not here to offend others with a word or a blog. We are not to destroy or weaken someone's faith as a means of saving them or helping them 'see' what we believe is the truth.
We also need to make sure that the sites we visit are full of light and truth, are speaking kindness and love and are not attempting to destroy anyone's faith or are speaking poorly about someone's religion or their leaders. What we post and what we view reveals our motive and our spirit.
Above all, we need to remember that negativity is a trait of Satan.
Edification is a trait of God.
Friday, November 6, 2015
New Church Policy Shows Great Respect, Love
There is a big uproar over the Church’s announcement of new guidelines for dealing with the children of gay couples and much of the media is not helping. Here are three actual headlines.
“New Mormon Policy Makes Apostates of Married Same-sex Couples, bars children from rites”
“LDS Church Says Children of Same-sex Couples Cannot be Members”
“LDS Church: Mormons Bar Children of Gay Parents Unless they Reject Their Families.”
Now, here is the actual policy guideline from the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
"November 3, 2015, Policies on Ordinances for Children of a Parent Living in a Same-Gender Relationship
The following additions to Handbook 1 have been approved by the Council of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for immediate implementation.
A new section in Handbook 1, 16.13 will be added as follows:
Children of a Parent Living in a Same-Gender Relationship
A natural or adopted child of a parent living in a same-gender relationship, whether the couple is married or cohabiting, may not receive a name and a blessing. A natural or adopted child of a parent living in a same-gender relationship, whether the couple is married or cohabiting, may be baptized and confirmed, ordained, or recommended for missionary service only as follows:
A mission president or a stake president may request approval from the Office of the First Presidency to baptize and confirm, ordain, or recommend missionary service for a child of a parent who has lived or is living in a same-gender relationship when he is satisfied by personal interviews that both of the following requirements are met:
1. The child accepts and is committed to live the teachings and doctrine of the Church, and specifically disavows the practice of same-gender cohabitation and marriage.
2. The child is of legal age and does not live with a parent who has lived or currently lives in a same-gender cohabitation relationship or marriage."
Is there anywhere in that guideline the use of the word ‘ban’ or a statement that a child of same-sex marriage couples cannot become a member?
No.
Is there anywhere in that guideline a phrase that, to become a member, children with same-sex parents have to 'reject their families' or stop loving them?
Again, no.
So, let’s break this guideline down, piece by piece, and really look at it...not just twist it around.
“A natural or adopted child of a parent living in a same-gender relationship, whether the couple is married or cohabiting, may not receive a name and a blessing.”
Think about this for a moment. This is a guideline for those young children whose parent is LIVING in a same-gender relationship. The policy doesn’t say anything about the child raised by a parent who has same-gender attraction but is keeping the Lord’s standards of chastity and marriage. It is only a caveat for those same-gender couples who come to the Church wanting their child blessed while they are living in open disregard of their doctrines.
Now ask yourself this, why would a same-sex couple bring their child to receive a blessing from a religion whose doctrines they do not accept and have no intention of living? If the parents are doing so to press their own agenda, cause conflict, or bring attention, then the Church's guideline is protecting an innocent child from being placed in the position of pawn or, worse, media weapon. Is it hard to understand why the Church would want to protect a child from that situation?
What about the next part of the guideline? “A natural or adopted child of a parent living in a same-gender relationship, whether the couple is married or cohabiting, may be baptized and confirmed, ordained, or recommended for missionary service.”
Wait a minute...don’t the headlines and the blog posts claim the children of gay parents CAN'T be baptized…that they are banned…deemed 'apostates'...and can’t become members?
That's what the headlines and blogs claim but the Church's actual policy is very clear. Children of gay parents CAN be baptized and confirmed. They can be ordained to the priesthood. They can even serve missions.
As long as they meet two basic criteria.
One—"The child accepts and is committed to live the teachings and doctrine of the Church, and specifically disavows the practice of same-gender cohabitation and marriage." This criteria is the same for anyone who comes in for a baptismal interview. Everyone, regardless of age and upbringing, is asked if they accept and are committed to living the teachings and doctrines of the Church. If someone has a background that may cause him special struggles, the interviewer will help that person search their own feelings about those issues. If the person cannot accept the Lord’s position on any doctrine, including marriage and same-gender relationships, then that person is not ready to be baptized at that time. Can they be baptized later if they choose? Yes.
The Church has many good, strong, baptized members who have same-gender attractions. They fill callings, serve missions, and attend the temple. I love their courage, example and their commitment. Same-gender attraction is not the problem and never has been. It is breaking the law of chastity or espousing it as acceptable that will preclude someone from baptism. And the law of chastity extends not only to those involved in same-gender relationships but to those in hetero-gender relationships outside of marriage as well. And since the Lord only accepts marriage between a man and a women, then the person being interviewed for baptism must also realize and accept that same-gender marriage, while now legal in the U.S. and some other countries, is not the standard the Lord has requested of us.
This is not a new set of standards for baptism. This is simply reiterating the Lord’s eternal standards and taking the time to ensure someone, who may feel personal conflict, is clear on what the Lord expects and why, and is willing to accept and live those standards. If they can't then they won't be baptized at that time. People shouldn’t join a religion because they think the religion needs to change. That’s rather arrogant, don’t you think? People join a religion for the change and blessing it can bring to them.
The second criteria is the child of same-sex parents “is of legal age and does not live with a parent who has lived or currently lives in a same-gender cohabitation relationship or marriage.”
So why would the Church say children of same-sex parents should be 18 and not living with the parent involved in same-gender relationships before they are baptized?
Because the Church does not want to break apart families!
They do not want the children to 'reject' their parents, as the headlines are trying to claim. (The disavowing is of the practice, not the person.) The Church is intentionally trying to avoid putting emotional strain on a child who might be being raised and loved by same-gender parents! They do not want the child to feel conflict over what the Church teaches and what the child is living. In truth, what kind of Church would ask a child to endure that?
The Church has always put the parent-child relationship ahead of baptism and this guideline continues to do that. Parents have always had to agree to their child’s baptism and even if same-gender parents agree to let their child be baptized, the conflict between the Church’s doctrine and the parent's lifestyle could cause emotional harm and distress both to the child and the parent. Again, what kind of a Church would willingly do that?
When the child is legally an adult and not living with the parent involved in same-gender relationships, if the child still wants to be baptized and is willing to accept and live the standards, then he can. By waiting until he is an adult and out of a same-gender based home he is better able to make and keep his covenants without causing conflicts in the home where he was raised.
This guideline was issued out of respect for that home—not disrespect for it—for the Church has always respected home, family and parental authority. So, anyone who says the Church is against children of gay couples has either not thoughtfully read the guideline or does not understand that the Church is trying to protect the most valuable of all of God’s creations…His children of all ages. They are trying to do it without harming the harmony of the home, the child or the parents regardless of the relationships the parents choose. This guideline of respect protects families with gay parents from having their home and loyalties divided.
An experience of a friend of mine might be a good way to end this blog. She married a nonmember and they began to have an issue over a particular Church doctrine…tithing. She wanted to pay it, he did not. The tension built until she finally went to her bishop hoping he would talk some sense into her husband. The bishop listened to her side then simply told her, “Don’t pay it.”
Stunned, she asked him why. His answer is one we need to remember. “The Lord is in the business of building eternal families, not destroying them.”
The Lord’s Church is here to build and strengthen families…all families…not destroy them and fill them with conflict. If a child of gay parents sincerely wants to be baptized and has to wait a few years so there can be more harmony in his home and with his parents, why is there an uproar?
I am very grateful the Church has issued this guideline to protect those families with same-gender parents. I am grateful He loves those children and their parents enough to protect them from conflicts in their home and at church.
For two great articles further addressing this issue, check out
A Look at the Church's New Policy on Children of Gay Couples
The 9 Facebook Myths About the Churchs New LGBT Policy
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Friday, October 23, 2015
The Other Side of the Coin and Critics of the Church
My friend is upset because he heard that Joseph Smith once said that if he lived to be 70 he would see the Son of God and the millennium would begin. This is a big criticism of the Church and Joseph’s divine calling as a prophet. After all, everyone knows Joseph didn’t live to be anywhere close to that age and, of course, the millennium still hasn’t happened yet, 170 years later.
Well, friend, the quote you heard isn't quite complete. The quote is found in our D&C. (The Church isn't hiding it.) “I was once praying very earnestly to know the time of the coming of the Son of Man, when I heard a voice repeat the following: Joseph, my son, if thou livest until thou art eighty-five years old, thou shalt see the face of the Son of Man….”
That, unfortunately, is all the critics let you read or hear. After all, they can’t provide the entire quote (or other versions of it) if they want to use it as ammunition against the Church. So here is the rest of the quote, which will resolve any conflict.
“I was left thus, without being able to decide whether this coming referred to the beginning of the millennium or to some previous appearing, or whether I should die and thus see his face.” (D&C 130:14-16)
Joseph clearly said he did not what that statement meant and mused that it could mean a variety of things IF he lived long enough. (Yes, there are other versions of this quote floating around but this is the version the Prophet, himself, approved for publication. The other quotes, if they are accurately recorded, did not merit that same approval. This is the version he placed his reputation behind...the one he knew most closely represented what he was saying.)
So, from this quote you mean a prophet of the Lord doesn’t know EVERYTHING?
That's right. And it is naive to expect that they do.
Prophets are not called for their infinite knowledge. They are called for their relationship with the Lord, to fulfill other purposes.
You are also upset because the Prophet Joseph Fielding Smith said that men would never walk on the moon. How, then, can he be a true prophet of God if he makes such an obvious mistake. Why didn't he know the coming truth?
First off, that statement was not a prophecy nor was it made by a Prophet. Joseph Fielding Smith made that statement in a stake conference in 1961. (Not the General Conference critics would lead you to believe.) He wasn't called as a prophet until 1970. Here is the quote the critics use from Elder Joseph Fielding Smith:
“We will never get a man into space. This earth is man's sphere and it was never intended that he should get away from it. The moon is a superior planet to the earth and it was never intended that man should go there. You can write it down in your books that this will never happen.”
They fail to tell you that Elder Smith was using that statement as he spoke on the faith (not space travel). His grandson, Joseph Fielding McConkie explained, “He reasoned that because the atonement that Christ worked out on this earth applies to all the creations of the Father, that our getting to other worlds and discovering that they had the same Savior and the same plan of salvation would dispense with the necessity of our accepting the gospel on the basis of faith. To dramatize the point he said, "I don't even think the Lord will let men get to the moon."
Joseph Fielding McConkie went on to say, “What he said (about faith), in my judgment, was right. The illustration he used to dramatize his point has since proven to be in error. It, however, has nothing to do with the point he was making. To dismiss everything else he said on the basis of one faulty illustration is, I would suggest, a far greater error and may frankly be grounds to question whether those saying it deserve credence, not whether Joseph Fielding Smith does.”
Yes, the “man” in Joseph Fielding Smith was incorrect. Men often are, doggonit. But that also means even critics of the Church are prone to being ‘incorrect’. Remember that if you face them and especially if you go looking for them.
But what about the Prophets, you ask. Don't they have to be perfect?
No. If we’re looking for perfect mortals to lead the Church then will have to throw out all of them. Goodbye Adam, Moses, David, Peter, Paul, Joseph Smith, Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, Joseph Fielding Smith…
We know that Christ was the only perfect person who ever walked on this earth, therefore we know, too, that all others have made mistakes--including the men He has called as Prophets, Seers and Revelators. Yet Christ clearly taught that "by their fruits ye shall know them." He didn't say anything about inspecting their bark to see if it was free of flaws. Why, then, do we feel we must pick apart the bark ourselves?
We are not here to find fault with others. God wants us to be of good cheer, to uplift and to edify those around us. I believe critical people tell me more about themselves than about the topic they are criticizing.
So, as we seek out our own learning and knowledge we must keep keep our eye focused on God. If we are doing as He wants we will be guided to paths that strength and brighten...not darken and taint.
So how do we know if something a prophet says is from God and not his own opinion? Here is a clear guide.
If it is from God it will be presented to the entire Church. It will be spoken from the housetops. It will not be a quote or two taken out of context. Everyone will know.
Neil L. Andersen said, “A few question their faith when they find a statement made by a Church leader decades ago that seems incongruent with our doctrine. There is an important principle that governs the doctrine of the Church. The doctrine is taught by ALL 15 members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve. It is not hidden in an obscure paragraph of one talk. True principles are taught frequently and by many. Our doctrine is not difficult to find.”
So, if the topic is being talked about by the Prophet, First Presidency and the 12 Apostles then you can rest assured it has the Lord’s approval. A random quote or two does not a doctrine make.
“Not every statement made by a Church leader, past or present, necessarily constitutes doctrine. A single statement made by a single leader on a single occasion often represents a personal, though well-considered, opinion, but is not meant to be officially binding for the whole Church….Isolated statements are often taken out of context, leaving their original meaning distorted” (LDS Newsroom, “Approaching Mormon Doctrine”).
When you read a short comment that makes you question the Church, know there is more to that quote. Find the full quote, read the full talk, understand the history of the time and, above all, pray as your read. Ask God for knowledge and guidance. He is the highest source of information you can find. Higher than any blog and any Web site. If you aren't going to God you are failing yourself.
Finally, my dear friend, prophets are not perfect but they are called by God for the strengths and guidance they can give to the world. If everyone listened to and followed the Prophets as they spoke His doctrines and principles, the world would be a much better place. That is the fruit that is sweeter than all others.
Do not get upset when people, strangers or even close friends, throw comments at you to shake your faith. No matter their reason for doing so, there is a certain baseness of spirit in anyone who would intentionally try to shake another person’s faith.
I love what Elder Vern P Stanfill said in October General Conference about critics of the Church. "These ever-present naysayers prefer to tear down rather than elevate and to ridicule rather than uplift. Their mocking words can burrow into our lives, often through split-second bursts of electronic distortions carefully and deliberately composed to destroy our faith. Is it wise to place our eternal well-being in the hands of strangers? Is it wise to claim enlightenment from those who have no light to give or who may have private agendas hidden from us?"
We need to remember that--always. Let us cautiously pick the voices we will listen to. And let us also remember each time we hold some change in our hand that there are two sides to every coin...and every comment. The side you choose to view is entirely up to you. But it will also tell others more about who you are and who you are becoming than the side you are viewing.
Elder Stanfill's talk Choose The Light
To find answers to questions posed by critics or even raised by your own studies go to FairMormon
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Sunday, October 4, 2015
The Sabbath is a Delight...and a Blessing
At the age of 51, when most people are mentally moving toward retirement, I gave into God’s promptings and returned to school full time. Though I was employed full time and had five children still at home, I knew I needed to complete my education. The Lord’s goal for me? To work towards becoming a nurse.
Become a nurse? At my age? Though I knew age wasn’t a factor for Abraham or Noah it was a worry for me. What would people think? Would the professors and those who selected candidates for the nursing program discount me because of my age?
With those doubts ringing daily in my mind I decided I would do as the Lord was prompting and return to school.
The week school began our tiny branch found themselves in desperate need of an early morning seminary teacher. With hesitation the calling was extended to me. My stake president, branch president and husband all voiced concerns over my ability to take on the calling with my upcoming school schedule. I told them I needed the blessings that would come from teaching seminary each morning.
So with all that on my plate I went back to school and that first weekend I found myself overwhelmed by school work and looking at using Sunday to do my assignments. Against all sense of logic I decided I needed the Lord’s help more than I needed Sunday to study or do my work. I made the commitment that, regardless of what was facing me at school on Monday morning I would not study or do homework on Sundays. If I needed more time I would get up early on Monday morning but I would give the Sabbath to the Lord.
For two and a half years I kept that promise and never once did I study or do homework on Sunday. Often that meant getting up at 2:30 or 3 on Monday morning but Sunday was for the Lord.
After two and a half years of full-time school I completed all the prerequisites to apply to the bachelor’s nursing degree program with a 3.97. My cumulative GPA for an associate of science degree was a 3.93 and earned me one of three full-tuition waivers to complete the final two years of my education.
Was keeping the Sabbath Day a delight as Isaiah said? Yes! It was a time for me to relax my mind, enjoy my family and immerse myself in the Gospel.
"If thou turn away…from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight,…and shalt honour [the Lord], not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:
“Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord.” (Isaiah 58:13-14)
I know that promise is true. I am absolutely delighted by the help and blessings the Lord has given to me! I know there is no way I could have accomplished those kinds of grades, been accepted into a very competitive program and received a needed tuition waiver on my own. While working full-time, teaching seminary every morning and taking care of my family I needed His help and He gave it in greater abundance than I could have imagined or even designed.
Russell M. Nelson said, “The Lord gave us this special day, not for amusement or daily labor but for a rest from duty, with physical and spiritual relief.”
And, at the opening of this dispensation, the Lord told the world through his prophet Joseph Smith, “For verily this is a day appointed unto you to rest from your labors, and to pay thy devotions unto the Most High…And inasmuch as ye do these things with thanksgiving, with cheerful hearts and countenances…the fulness of the earth is yours.” (D&C 59:10 and 15)
Elder Nelson went on to say that “Faith in God engenders a love for the Sabbath; faith in the Sabbath engenders a love for God. A sacred Sabbath truly is a delight.”
I knew the Lord wanted me to return to school. I knew that He would help me if I honored my covenants and kept the Sabbath day holy. I have found out that a sacred Sabbath truly is a delight…not only for the spiritual blessings we receive but for the earthly blessings He gives us.
We may not readily see the miracles and blessings that come to us for putting aside the things of the world for one day but those blessings will accumulate like oil in our lamps until one day we will look back and know that because we gave the Lord one day a week He carried us and blessed us through seven days each week.
To read Elder Nelson's talk, go to: The Sabbath is a Delight
Become a nurse? At my age? Though I knew age wasn’t a factor for Abraham or Noah it was a worry for me. What would people think? Would the professors and those who selected candidates for the nursing program discount me because of my age?
With those doubts ringing daily in my mind I decided I would do as the Lord was prompting and return to school.
The week school began our tiny branch found themselves in desperate need of an early morning seminary teacher. With hesitation the calling was extended to me. My stake president, branch president and husband all voiced concerns over my ability to take on the calling with my upcoming school schedule. I told them I needed the blessings that would come from teaching seminary each morning.
So with all that on my plate I went back to school and that first weekend I found myself overwhelmed by school work and looking at using Sunday to do my assignments. Against all sense of logic I decided I needed the Lord’s help more than I needed Sunday to study or do my work. I made the commitment that, regardless of what was facing me at school on Monday morning I would not study or do homework on Sundays. If I needed more time I would get up early on Monday morning but I would give the Sabbath to the Lord.
For two and a half years I kept that promise and never once did I study or do homework on Sunday. Often that meant getting up at 2:30 or 3 on Monday morning but Sunday was for the Lord.
After two and a half years of full-time school I completed all the prerequisites to apply to the bachelor’s nursing degree program with a 3.97. My cumulative GPA for an associate of science degree was a 3.93 and earned me one of three full-tuition waivers to complete the final two years of my education.
Was keeping the Sabbath Day a delight as Isaiah said? Yes! It was a time for me to relax my mind, enjoy my family and immerse myself in the Gospel.
"If thou turn away…from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight,…and shalt honour [the Lord], not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:
“Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord.” (Isaiah 58:13-14)
I know that promise is true. I am absolutely delighted by the help and blessings the Lord has given to me! I know there is no way I could have accomplished those kinds of grades, been accepted into a very competitive program and received a needed tuition waiver on my own. While working full-time, teaching seminary every morning and taking care of my family I needed His help and He gave it in greater abundance than I could have imagined or even designed.
Russell M. Nelson said, “The Lord gave us this special day, not for amusement or daily labor but for a rest from duty, with physical and spiritual relief.”
And, at the opening of this dispensation, the Lord told the world through his prophet Joseph Smith, “For verily this is a day appointed unto you to rest from your labors, and to pay thy devotions unto the Most High…And inasmuch as ye do these things with thanksgiving, with cheerful hearts and countenances…the fulness of the earth is yours.” (D&C 59:10 and 15)
Elder Nelson went on to say that “Faith in God engenders a love for the Sabbath; faith in the Sabbath engenders a love for God. A sacred Sabbath truly is a delight.”
I knew the Lord wanted me to return to school. I knew that He would help me if I honored my covenants and kept the Sabbath day holy. I have found out that a sacred Sabbath truly is a delight…not only for the spiritual blessings we receive but for the earthly blessings He gives us.
We may not readily see the miracles and blessings that come to us for putting aside the things of the world for one day but those blessings will accumulate like oil in our lamps until one day we will look back and know that because we gave the Lord one day a week He carried us and blessed us through seven days each week.
To read Elder Nelson's talk, go to: The Sabbath is a Delight
Saturday, August 24, 2013
One of the 90 and 9
My oldest daughter asked me the other day why Christ spent all his time searching after the one lost sheep. “What about the others?” she asked. “What if you are one of the 90 and 9 who never did anything wrong? The scriptures don’t tell us how He feels about them.”
Well, to my daughter who rarely does anything wrong, let me open your eyes to some truths you may not have thought about.
Every shepherd spends hours tending his flock. He is there when the lambs are born and he watches them frolic and grow. When it comes time to take them out of the fold so they can feed and drink he knows where the very best pastures are and where the best and safest access to water is located. That is where he takes them.
Like all flocks, the sheep do tend to disperse on the trail and, again, in the verdant pastures. Some will wander too far one way and he will bring them back. Sometimes all he has to do is call and the sheep will respond to his voice. Other times he may have to go out and physically direct them back to the best grasses and safest waters. Sheep are timid animals so he can’t use force or the whole flock will flee. He has to gently and lovingly move them back to where he has brought them…to the very best pastures and purest waters.
So, when one of those sheep takes off in forbidden paths the shepherd knows that sheep isn’t going to find better fields. There are no better fields. He has brought them to the finest places available.
Well, he could sit there and let the lost sheep succumb to the dangers of those other places but, in his mind and his heart, he can’t. He has watched that sheep grow up from frolicking lamb. He has smiled at the sheep’s personality and he knows the sheep’s value and potential. Because of that, he frets about the lost sheep until he is compelled to leave the 90 and 9 and go find it.
It wasn’t an easy decision to make.
While he is gone that little flock of sheep are on their own but they are not forgotten. Now, every step of his journey, he is also worries about the 90 and 9 he left behind. It’s a reverse effect. You can’t forget the one while it is gone and you can’t forget the 90 and 9 while you are gone.
The shepherd continues searching for the lost sheep and hopes he can accomplish his mission before wolves come in and scatter the rest of his beloved flock…or destroy the one he is seeking.
Back in the pasture most of the sheep have noticed he is gone but they trust he will return. Why? Because he has always been there when they needed him. So they graze calmly and quietly side-by-side. They share the rich grasses he has provided for them, letting others in the flock nuzzle in close as they graze. Sheep rarely kick or fuss with each other in the pasture because they have learned to get along. They are truly a banded family.
Because of the shepherd, they also know the outer edges of their pasture and most don’t stray beyond it. When a few do, the calls of the older sheep will lure them back.
They know the location of the pure, sweet water and follow the path he marked down there and back. They don’t try any other way…not because they are dumb but because they are smart. They know and trust if this is the path designated by the shepherd this is the best and safest path to take.
If any danger or concern presents, at least one of the sheep will call out an alarm and the rest of the flock will be alerted.
Their willingness to comply, to do the right thing, to be trustworthy and helpful and stick with the flock ALLOWS the shepherd to leave in search of the lost one.
He couldn’t leave if he was constantly forced to contend with the rebellions of the entire flock but, because there are daughters like you, he is able to go out and save people you may know and love some day.
Even when you are alone he knows you will do the right thing and that is a great thing to have—his trust. Not everyone does.
And, just because you can’t see him right now doesn’t mean he has forgotten you. His thoughts, his heart and his prayers are turned to you even as he searches for the sheep that never should have strayed in the first place. He doesn’t want to leave you alone. He doesn’t like to leave you alone but he is grateful he can. He is so thankful he will come back and find you right where he placed you, grazing peacefully in the middle of the wilderness, safe and unhurt.
And one day, I promise you, you will also be thanked by the “one” he found and rescued because you were one of the 90 and 9. You were one of the ones the shepherd could trust enough to leave alone and go rescue the “one”.
It takes a very special, reliable and trustworthy lamb to be one of the 90 and 9. You, my dear daughter, have gained a very honored and treasured position.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
More on Tamar
"Sister, thanks for your superb article. One point I would like to know more: "the Jews tell us she had been prophetically told she would be the one to fulfill the promise"... may you quote the source for me? I'm interested to document this."
Dear Brother, Sorry it has taken so long for my response but the answer is not as clear as one single reference nor as condensed as one sole moment in history. To better understand this we need to go back even before Tamar.
We know from the scriptures that Jacob would father nations and that kings would come from his loins (Gen. 35:11). Ancient Jewish sources tell us that it was even known he would father 12 sons and Leah assumed each of his wives would give birth to three sons apiece. That is why, when Judah, Leah’s fourth son was born, she exclaimed “This time I will praise the Lord,” for she had now been given more than her fair share (Tanhuma, Vayeze 9).
The birth of Judah was also, for her, an additional reason to praise the Lord for she realized that Jacob did not just fulfill his duty or quota of three sons with her but continued to treat her as his wife in every respect and love her and come to her even when he did not have to.
So who was Leah and why was she important to your question?
Leah was the oldest daughter of Laban and, in Gen. 29:17, we read that she “was tender eyed”. While explanations of that term are varied, the Jews believe this description was given in praise since the Torah does not speak disparagingly of the righteous….neither does the Bible.."
Ancient scripture beyond the Bible tells us that Leah was a righteous woman. In fact, some records tell us Leah and her sister were twins (Seder Olam Rabbah 2). Adding to that are other ancient records that tell us Leah’s eyes were tender from weeping for she was supposed to marry Esau, Jacob’s older brother. The two families were related and knew each other and some records tell us the marriages between the brothers and the sisters had already been arranged. In Rabbah 70:16 it is recorded that Leah prayed “May it be His will that my lot not fall in the portion of the wicked Esau.”
In the weavings of life, ancient Jewish records and Rabbinic writings tell us that Esau did not care about his covenant marriage any more than he did about his birthright and married two of Ishmael’s daughters instead.
Remember that Ishmael, through his mother Hagar, was of Canaanite heritage. Canaan was the grandson of Noah through Ham and his wife Egyptus. Through a series of choices, Canaan and his children were eventually denied the priesthood. Therefore, those of Canaanite descent did not have the blessings of priesthood authority for themselves or their children. Instead, the priesthood authority was given by Noah to Shem and his children. Through his righteousness, Shem and his children were blessed to know God. In fact, Shem was promised that the Shekinah was to dwell only in the tents of Shem (Yoma 10a; Tan., Noah, 21; Gen. Rabbah 37:9, comp. Jubilees 7:9).
So what is the Shekinah?
Shekinah is a Hebrew term that means the physical manifestation of God among the people. Additional definitions to the term would be an intermediary between God and His people or a presence dwelling among the people.
As Christians we know and understand that Skekinah to be the son of God, himself—even the Savior Jesus Christ. Christ would come through Shem’s lineage. In fact, after the flood and the blessing, Shem’s name became synonymous with the son of God and Shem was often referred to in ancient writings, as Shemu-el or Elohe Shem and it was often said that “Shem is blessed of Yhwh."
So, knowing all this—knowing that both Jacob and his brother Esau were descendants of the righteous Shem and knowing the eternal promises given to Abraham and Isaac—Leah knew that this Savior, this intermediary would be born through that family's priesthood line. When Esau rebelled and married outside of the covenant, taking Canaanites to wife, this prophesied Savior could not come through him but only Jacob.
Not that Leah was gunning for position in world genealogies. She wanted a man who honored the priesthood and his heritage. If a prophesied Savior would appear sometime later, in the Meridian of Time, to be God’s Shekinah on earth, so be it; but Leah wanted a good man now. To that end her father Laban (and some ancient writings tell us her sister Rachel) worked together to assure she would be able to marry the righteous Jacob.
Then, after the marriages, the children began to come and each of their names indicated greatly their prophesied roles. Though we do not know how they knew who would do what--whether that knowledge came through blessings, visions, visitations or other divine communication--Jacob and Leah did know that royalty—and the King of Kings—would come through Judah’s lineage.
Fast forward that a few years to the life of Judah. He left his family—and his divine responsibility—and married a Canaanite. In fact, the wording is filled with powerful symbolism…”Judah went down from his brethren.” The Torah tells us he not only lowered himself but he separated himself from his family as well. Trying to distance himself from them and his guilt over what they did to Joseph may have caused some of that. Guilt does cause us to sink down and turn away from loved ones.
After Judah turned to paths he should have avoided and married a Canaanite, all three of his sons: Er, Onan and Shuah, were ineligible for the priesthood. Through his marriage choice, Judah had ended his sons' chances of progressing eternally and playing a role in bringing forth the prophesied son of God. That still happens so often today!
Now, many assume from the Biblical account alone, that Tamar was also a Canaanite simply because it fits snuggly with the information about Judah settling among the Canaanites and says nothing about a second move. But other ancient writings tell us that Tamar was not a Canaanite. She was a descendent of Shem and had righteous parents, her father being a priest. That is why, when Judah heard she was pregnant, he called for her to be burned. Only the children of priests were burned for adultery. All others were stoned (Lev. 21:9, Deut. 22:17-24). That pronouncement of punishment meant Tamar was not a Canaanite but, rather, from the chosen bloodline.
As the daughter of a priest, raised in the gospel, she knew of the priesthood limitations on Er, Onan and Shuah because of the choices of their father.
So why, then, did she marry into the family?
That we do not know, but we do know that she saw the great role the family would play and that she prayed with the Lord and pleaded "May it be Your will that I not leave this house empty” (Gen. Rabbah 85:7).
Tamar also understood that only Judah—at this point—could continue that prophesied line of royalty. Judah could try to flee his responsibility, could even act in pseudo righteousness by keeping the laws that served him best while doing other things his own way—but he couldn’t flee from God. That is why, when Judah recognized the truth of the situation later, he exclaimed “She hath been more righteous than I.”
Several Midrashic accounts tell us that before Tamar joined Judah in that legal marriage union she wept--not only for her own unfulfilled marriage but for the loss of the promised line. She was so grieved over the loss that at least one ancient account tells us the Lord comforted her and sent the angel Michael to intercede on her behalf (Tanhuma [ed. Buber], Vayeshev 17), announcing that kings and redeemers would come forth from her tent (v. 16, Gen. Rabbah 85:8).
She knew the truth all along. She knew Judah was the prophesied father of the royal line, the continuation of the promises given to Shem; and she knew, too, what the Lord had told her. Despite all the setbacks, all the years of frustration, the broken promises and seeing a chosen and righteous man live beneath his potential, she still lived a righteous and virtuous life. She trusted the Lord and that decision eventually brought Judah back around to the truth.
It is said that, on learning she was with child, Tamar pronounced with joy,“I am pregnant with kings and redeemers” (Gen. Rabbah 85:10) and, for certain, she was.
For more on this story, see Did Judah Sin with Tamar?
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