I've gotten a little behind in blogging. Maybe that's one reason my mind has felt so scattered and distracted lately. Blogging for me is a way to organize my thoughts, journal, reflect, and study by "gathering together in one" as Elder Bednar teaches in his book Increase in Learning, so obviously I need to do better.
I have nearly 90 drafted posts in a variety of levels of completeness, which means at least 90 incomplete thoughts floating around in my head. ;) Most are just a few lines to remind me of something I was thinking, but often that's not quite enough, especially months later, to remember how to finish. I went on a fun trip to Vernal in 2010, had a great Sunday School lesson about Jeremiah later that year, enjoyed some nice hikes in 2014, ;) but mostly my unfinished posts were a scripture or a song that was particularly inspiring for whatever reason on a certain day. I'm grateful for those reminders of the Lord's tender mercies and how He continues to teach me and obviously I need some repetition. ;)
So, at some point soon I hope to be more on top of this organizing my thoughts and studying and recording thing, but as I try to get caught up a few back-dated posts may be coming with some more recent examples mixed in. ;)
And I'm grateful today for the reminder of a song I came across in 2013. It's been stuck in my head since and I'm glad. It's a great reminder of what I'm looking for and trying to become....
Love Never Fails
Love is not proud
Love does not boast
Love after all
Matters the most
Love does not run
Love does not hide
Love does not keep
Locked inside
Love is the river that flows through
Love never fails you
Love will sustain
Love will provide
Love will not cease
At the end of time
Love will protect
Love always hopes
Love still believes
When you don't
Love is the arms that are holding you
Love never fails you
When my heart won't make a sound
When I can't turn back around
When the sky is falling down
Nothing is greater than this--greater than this
Love is right here
Love is alive
Love is the way
The truth the life
Love is the river that flows through
Love is the arms that are holding you
Love is the place you fly to
Love never fails you
Showing posts with label Who am I?. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Who am I?. Show all posts
Friday, June 16, 2017
Saturday, June 10, 2017
True Colors
I have been thinking A LOT lately about being true, real, authentic, genuine, present (yep, still working on it) and I was so grateful to recently catch this song from Trolls - "True Colors." It depicts the importance of being ourselves and letting people see us, our true colors. "I see your true colors. That's why I love you, so don't be afraid to let them show. Your true colors are beautiful!"
I want to do that better - both in showing my true colors and in seeing others and their true colors.
I was also reminded recently of a sweet children's book called "The Boy Who Spoke to the Earth." The boy is looking for happiness, but not quite seeing it. He has to stop and stand still for a moment in all the beautiful places to find that happiness has been around him all along. Is there happiness around us that we're missing? Is there happiness we're not sharing? President Nelson has talked a little bit about this recently. We choose happiness and the Savior offers us eternal joy.
I think that some of the most beautiful and happy things around us are our relationships - other people (that we know and that we don't know). Do we see them? Do we give them our time and love (putting away distractions and focusing on what's most important - our Heavenly Father, our family, our neighbors)? Elder Renlund taught beautifully that we need to see others through God's eyes. I love that! Forget ourselves, be ourselves, and really see others...as He does. I think that must be a beautiful, colorful, happy world!
I want to do that better - both in showing my true colors and in seeing others and their true colors.
I was also reminded recently of a sweet children's book called "The Boy Who Spoke to the Earth." The boy is looking for happiness, but not quite seeing it. He has to stop and stand still for a moment in all the beautiful places to find that happiness has been around him all along. Is there happiness around us that we're missing? Is there happiness we're not sharing? President Nelson has talked a little bit about this recently. We choose happiness and the Savior offers us eternal joy.
I think that some of the most beautiful and happy things around us are our relationships - other people (that we know and that we don't know). Do we see them? Do we give them our time and love (putting away distractions and focusing on what's most important - our Heavenly Father, our family, our neighbors)? Elder Renlund taught beautifully that we need to see others through God's eyes. I love that! Forget ourselves, be ourselves, and really see others...as He does. I think that must be a beautiful, colorful, happy world!
Thursday, June 1, 2017
Deliberate Pruning
I've been thinking a little bit lately about the importance of being deliberate, disciplined, focused. I think there is value in being agreeable, flexible, go-with-the-flow, but we must also stand by our convictions, have convictions to begin with, be steady and steadfast. We make choices every day. Goals help us make choices that will help us reach our potential or at least push us to something greater than a go-with-the-flow mentality might.
Lately I've felt a bit distracted and scattered, with good things, but it's left me feeling like I'm running in circles and I don't know for sure what I'm accomplishing. I want to be ready and available and flexible to serve where the Lord needs me, but I don't think that means we shouldn't make our own plans or be deliberate about how we spend our time and energy. I think distractions are much less appealing and don’t really bug us when we're focused, set, disciplined, firm, and steadfast in our faith and direction and centered in our foundation. We won't be blown about by every little ‘good’ thing when we’re focused on Christ and doing the will of the Father (like He did). ;) We talk a lot about the firm foundation keeping us from falling, but I think it also keeps us from wasting our time, drifting, and not accomplishing all that we can and need to do.
One thing that got me thinking about this was my rose bushes. I'm not a gardener, but I've learned a lot watching nature and plants the last few months. My roses were beautiful for a couple of weeks and then became a little unwieldy and I remembered Jacob 5 and thought maybe I should prune them and dig about them and nourish them a bit. ;) Well, ever since nearly slicing my ankle open while trimming our bushes when I was in high school I've kind of steered clear of clippers, so I was using scissors for the recent pruning of my "thorn bushes." This makes is slightly difficult to be very exact and now I feel like my bushes just got a bad hair cut. ;) A gardener would have had the right tools and known just where they needed to be trimmed so that they would grow in the direction they should and come back healthier. I could have and should have learned a little more before taking the scissors to them.
President Uchtdorf reminds us that: "Strength comes not from frantic activity but from being settled on a firm foundation of truth and light. It comes from placing our attention and efforts on the basics of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.... Let us simplify our lives a little. Let us make the changes necessary to refocus our lives on the sublime beauty of the simple, humble path of Christian discipleship—the path that leads always toward a life of meaning, gladness, and peace.”
I also thought it was incredible that less than 24 hours off the vine all of my roses were DEAD! There's another lesson (see John 15). We must be connected to the vine. That's the foundation, the focus, the life. A recent discussion in Sunday School got me thinking about what we learn. We shouldn't be distracted by the fluffy newsfeeds, but go deep, study, seek wisdom, be intentional and specific about what we desire to learn. The Lord will teach us, but what is it we want to learn, what do we want to become? The responsibility to learn and grow is on us. We must ask, seek, knock. We must be proactive and then rely on the Lord. I think there are blessings and knowledge and answers the Lord is waiting to give us individually (like Elder Holland says), but we must ask. He won’t force us to do anything and He doesn’t just hand us the answers. We need to work and invest our time and heart into learning and becoming like Him on purpose. I don't think it will happen otherwise. ;)
Here were a few interesting articles that I liked that kind of highlight different ways we can be intentional, deliberate, live on purpose for good - set priorities, stay connected, be valiant, and, one of my favorites, be thoughtful, even surprise people with your thoughtfulness:
Lately I've felt a bit distracted and scattered, with good things, but it's left me feeling like I'm running in circles and I don't know for sure what I'm accomplishing. I want to be ready and available and flexible to serve where the Lord needs me, but I don't think that means we shouldn't make our own plans or be deliberate about how we spend our time and energy. I think distractions are much less appealing and don’t really bug us when we're focused, set, disciplined, firm, and steadfast in our faith and direction and centered in our foundation. We won't be blown about by every little ‘good’ thing when we’re focused on Christ and doing the will of the Father (like He did). ;) We talk a lot about the firm foundation keeping us from falling, but I think it also keeps us from wasting our time, drifting, and not accomplishing all that we can and need to do.
One thing that got me thinking about this was my rose bushes. I'm not a gardener, but I've learned a lot watching nature and plants the last few months. My roses were beautiful for a couple of weeks and then became a little unwieldy and I remembered Jacob 5 and thought maybe I should prune them and dig about them and nourish them a bit. ;) Well, ever since nearly slicing my ankle open while trimming our bushes when I was in high school I've kind of steered clear of clippers, so I was using scissors for the recent pruning of my "thorn bushes." This makes is slightly difficult to be very exact and now I feel like my bushes just got a bad hair cut. ;) A gardener would have had the right tools and known just where they needed to be trimmed so that they would grow in the direction they should and come back healthier. I could have and should have learned a little more before taking the scissors to them.
President Uchtdorf reminds us that: "Strength comes not from frantic activity but from being settled on a firm foundation of truth and light. It comes from placing our attention and efforts on the basics of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.... Let us simplify our lives a little. Let us make the changes necessary to refocus our lives on the sublime beauty of the simple, humble path of Christian discipleship—the path that leads always toward a life of meaning, gladness, and peace.”
I also thought it was incredible that less than 24 hours off the vine all of my roses were DEAD! There's another lesson (see John 15). We must be connected to the vine. That's the foundation, the focus, the life. A recent discussion in Sunday School got me thinking about what we learn. We shouldn't be distracted by the fluffy newsfeeds, but go deep, study, seek wisdom, be intentional and specific about what we desire to learn. The Lord will teach us, but what is it we want to learn, what do we want to become? The responsibility to learn and grow is on us. We must ask, seek, knock. We must be proactive and then rely on the Lord. I think there are blessings and knowledge and answers the Lord is waiting to give us individually (like Elder Holland says), but we must ask. He won’t force us to do anything and He doesn’t just hand us the answers. We need to work and invest our time and heart into learning and becoming like Him on purpose. I don't think it will happen otherwise. ;)
Here were a few interesting articles that I liked that kind of highlight different ways we can be intentional, deliberate, live on purpose for good - set priorities, stay connected, be valiant, and, one of my favorites, be thoughtful, even surprise people with your thoughtfulness:
Monday, February 6, 2017
Being Enough
I caught a bit of Forrest Gump on T.V. recently and was struck by his statement, "I'm not a smart man, but I know what love is." Truly, I think he did, more than most, know what love is! Love is humble. innocent. caring. genuine. kind. and thoughtful. I was grateful for that simple reminder.
Recently, I've felt lacking in many ways. I feel like I've been running in circles, but not getting anything done. I've been giving a lot of time and what I see as love that doesn't seem to be right or enough. ;) I guess at least I'm not standing still, but maybe I need to stand still to figure out better what love really is. ;) I wonder sometimes: What's the point? What should I be doing? Will I ever measure up? What am I trying to measure up to anyway? Where's the joy?
About the same time I started asking myself these questions I was uplifted up by these words:
1. "You're supposed to be here. You're trusted. You're loved. When you're doing your best don't worry about being inadequate."
2. President Ezra Taft Benson taught in the October 1989 Ensign, "A Mighty Change of Heart": "We must not lose hope. Hope is an anchor to the souls of men. Satan would have us cast away that anchor. In this way he can bring discouragement and surrender. But we must not lose hope. The Lord is pleased with every effort, even the tiny, daily ones in which we strive to be more like Him. Though we may see that we have far to go on the road to perfection, we must not give up hope."
3. Worry less about expectations and what people think. Concentrate on Him and what He wants you to do or say. Forget yourself. You might worry about what the Lord thinks of you and parts of your patriarchal blessing that are not fulfilled, but there is a great deal still to happen in your life. Much more can happen than you expect! Mortal life is not the beginning or the end. The key for all of us is to do all we can now.
Remember the seed that Alma teaches us to plant. It is that we “begin to believe in the Son of God, that he will come to redeem his people, and that he shall suffer and die to atone for their sins; and that he shall rise again from the dead, which shall bring to pass the resurrection” (Alma 33:22). Everything flows from that truth! The seed needs depth. Don’t let the cares of the world choke it out, but be very fruitful! "For I, the Lord, will cause them [those whose hearts are honest and broken and spirits are contrite, and who are willing to observe their covenants by sacrifice] to bring forth as a very fruitful tree which is planted in a goodly land, by a pure stream, that yieldeth much precious fruit” (D&C 97:8-9).
Recently, I've felt lacking in many ways. I feel like I've been running in circles, but not getting anything done. I've been giving a lot of time and what I see as love that doesn't seem to be right or enough. ;) I guess at least I'm not standing still, but maybe I need to stand still to figure out better what love really is. ;) I wonder sometimes: What's the point? What should I be doing? Will I ever measure up? What am I trying to measure up to anyway? Where's the joy?
About the same time I started asking myself these questions I was uplifted up by these words:
1. "You're supposed to be here. You're trusted. You're loved. When you're doing your best don't worry about being inadequate."
2. President Ezra Taft Benson taught in the October 1989 Ensign, "A Mighty Change of Heart": "We must not lose hope. Hope is an anchor to the souls of men. Satan would have us cast away that anchor. In this way he can bring discouragement and surrender. But we must not lose hope. The Lord is pleased with every effort, even the tiny, daily ones in which we strive to be more like Him. Though we may see that we have far to go on the road to perfection, we must not give up hope."
3. Worry less about expectations and what people think. Concentrate on Him and what He wants you to do or say. Forget yourself. You might worry about what the Lord thinks of you and parts of your patriarchal blessing that are not fulfilled, but there is a great deal still to happen in your life. Much more can happen than you expect! Mortal life is not the beginning or the end. The key for all of us is to do all we can now.
Remember the seed that Alma teaches us to plant. It is that we “begin to believe in the Son of God, that he will come to redeem his people, and that he shall suffer and die to atone for their sins; and that he shall rise again from the dead, which shall bring to pass the resurrection” (Alma 33:22). Everything flows from that truth! The seed needs depth. Don’t let the cares of the world choke it out, but be very fruitful! "For I, the Lord, will cause them [those whose hearts are honest and broken and spirits are contrite, and who are willing to observe their covenants by sacrifice] to bring forth as a very fruitful tree which is planted in a goodly land, by a pure stream, that yieldeth much precious fruit” (D&C 97:8-9).
The reward is exactly the same for the person who increased their five talents to ten and
the person who increased their two talents to four, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast
been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter
thou into the joy of thy lord.” Be diligent with what you have! Don’t
compare! Look to the Savior and others
close by to improve and develop your own Christlike character, but remember that anything, if we’re diligent,
is sufficient! Cultivate and apply your talents! Nourish the seed and the spirit that’s in
you! Don’t be content with where you
are. Keep going. Develop spiritual gifts.
Live with gratitude for all that you have – answers to prayers, talents, the Lord manifesting His hand in your life. “He who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more" (D&C 78:17-19). Be aware and acknowledge His hand. Express gratitude. He wants to give us more!
Live with gratitude for all that you have – answers to prayers, talents, the Lord manifesting His hand in your life. “He who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more" (D&C 78:17-19). Be aware and acknowledge His hand. Express gratitude. He wants to give us more!
Pray. Sit and spend quiet time with the Lord. You’re no stranger to your Heavenly
Father. He knows us. His love is
perfect and complete. “Be glad then, ye
children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God...he will cause to come down for you
the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the
first month….And I will restore to you the years that the locust
hath eaten” (Joel 2:23, 25). Don’t worry about lost
time and opportunities, your time wandering in the wilderness. What the locusts have eaten God can
make whole! Progress, have joy in life! Increase your talents, be a blessing
to those around you. Desire to reach and serve Him! Rejoice in all that’s to come and what already has.
4. The Lord loves and blesses us one by one. "And it came to pass that the Lord spake unto them saying: Arise and come forth unto me, that ye may thrust your hands into my side, and also that ye may feel the prints of the nails in my hands and in my feet, that ye may know that I am the God of Israel, and the God of the whole earth, and have been slain for the sins of the world. And it came to pass that the multitude went forth, and thrust their hands into his side, and did feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet; and this they did do, going forth one by one until they had all gone forth, and did see with their eyes and did feel with their hands, and did know of a surety and did bear record, that it was he, of whom it was written by the prophets, that should come. And when they had all gone forth and had witnessed for themselves, they did cry out with one accord, saying: Hosanna! Blessed be the name of the Most High God! And they did fall down at the feet of Jesus, and did worship him" (3 Nephi 11:13-16). He blesses us with many tender mercies and He uses us as resources to bless others.
4. The Lord loves and blesses us one by one. "And it came to pass that the Lord spake unto them saying: Arise and come forth unto me, that ye may thrust your hands into my side, and also that ye may feel the prints of the nails in my hands and in my feet, that ye may know that I am the God of Israel, and the God of the whole earth, and have been slain for the sins of the world. And it came to pass that the multitude went forth, and thrust their hands into his side, and did feel the prints of the nails in his hands and in his feet; and this they did do, going forth one by one until they had all gone forth, and did see with their eyes and did feel with their hands, and did know of a surety and did bear record, that it was he, of whom it was written by the prophets, that should come. And when they had all gone forth and had witnessed for themselves, they did cry out with one accord, saying: Hosanna! Blessed be the name of the Most High God! And they did fall down at the feet of Jesus, and did worship him" (3 Nephi 11:13-16). He blesses us with many tender mercies and He uses us as resources to bless others.
Saturday, October 1, 2016
Korea - An Important Part of Who I Am
It was 16 years ago this week that I began one of the greatest adventures of my life - serving as a full-time missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Busan, Korean. This experience has continued to bless my life, as it did this week very directly when we got together for a very special mission reunion. Every missionary that ever served in any mission in Korea....for the past 60 years was invited and it was WONDERFUL! I enjoyed seeing old friends and companions, but was particularly grateful for the chance to be reminded of who I was 14-16 years ago.
I was reminded of the courage and quiet confidence I had as a missionary. I was full of purpose and meaning and confidence....in the Lord and His plan....and great love for a particular group of people. Being around those people and the language and the memories helped me to remember who I truly am. I had a strong testimony before I left on mission and I really wanted to share it, but having the chance to share it in Korea helped me to keep it simple and focused on the most important things and words that I knew. ;) There was no fear....just faith and love!
There are many things I wish I knew before I went. I was kind of immature, but I also had an almost childlike faith and confidence. Being with missionaries and Koreans again helped me feel and remember those experiences and the person I was then. I'm proud of that person and time in my life. I feel like these people knew the real me, the person I want to be. I have grown in many ways since then, but have maybe lost some of the faith and confidence in myself. I was grateful for the reminder of who these people know me as. I immediately felt the same special happiness and confidence when surrounded by those memories. I remember the greatest compliment I ever received as a missionary was from an investigator who told me that I had a heart like a Korean. ;)
Koreans aren't shy, bu they are humble and teachable, they love and give and care about each other, they're united as family. Being together as missionaries from several generations with the shared love for this wonderful group of people was uplifting. There is a unique sense of belonging and unity among Koreans and those who served there - pride, joy, unity, gratitude. I remember Elder Eyring coming to speak to us at a mission conference in 2001. He talked about Helaman chapter 3 (see Helaman 3:24-27) and how thousands of people would join the Church in Korea because of the continual faith and prayers of the returned missionaries who loved these people and continued to pray for them. I thought of this promise and have increased my faith and prayers for these people that I love! :)
Here is a video of the program from that night. Obviously it doesn't include the one-on-one time visits which were the highlight, but it does capture some of the culture, and history, and miracles, and blessings of being a part of this group. One particular blessing I found was at 1:07:20 in the video. It's a picture of some servicemen in Korea - some of the first "missionaries" - and right near the top middle of the picture is my Grandpa Morgan who was there at that time. That is something very special that we share - a love for Korea and the sweet people of that land. I'm grateful to remember who I am....and who I can be because of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I was reminded of the courage and quiet confidence I had as a missionary. I was full of purpose and meaning and confidence....in the Lord and His plan....and great love for a particular group of people. Being around those people and the language and the memories helped me to remember who I truly am. I had a strong testimony before I left on mission and I really wanted to share it, but having the chance to share it in Korea helped me to keep it simple and focused on the most important things and words that I knew. ;) There was no fear....just faith and love!
There are many things I wish I knew before I went. I was kind of immature, but I also had an almost childlike faith and confidence. Being with missionaries and Koreans again helped me feel and remember those experiences and the person I was then. I'm proud of that person and time in my life. I feel like these people knew the real me, the person I want to be. I have grown in many ways since then, but have maybe lost some of the faith and confidence in myself. I was grateful for the reminder of who these people know me as. I immediately felt the same special happiness and confidence when surrounded by those memories. I remember the greatest compliment I ever received as a missionary was from an investigator who told me that I had a heart like a Korean. ;)
Koreans aren't shy, bu they are humble and teachable, they love and give and care about each other, they're united as family. Being together as missionaries from several generations with the shared love for this wonderful group of people was uplifting. There is a unique sense of belonging and unity among Koreans and those who served there - pride, joy, unity, gratitude. I remember Elder Eyring coming to speak to us at a mission conference in 2001. He talked about Helaman chapter 3 (see Helaman 3:24-27) and how thousands of people would join the Church in Korea because of the continual faith and prayers of the returned missionaries who loved these people and continued to pray for them. I thought of this promise and have increased my faith and prayers for these people that I love! :)
Here is a video of the program from that night. Obviously it doesn't include the one-on-one time visits which were the highlight, but it does capture some of the culture, and history, and miracles, and blessings of being a part of this group. One particular blessing I found was at 1:07:20 in the video. It's a picture of some servicemen in Korea - some of the first "missionaries" - and right near the top middle of the picture is my Grandpa Morgan who was there at that time. That is something very special that we share - a love for Korea and the sweet people of that land. I'm grateful to remember who I am....and who I can be because of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Sunday, August 21, 2016
Fishers and Hunters
In Jeremiah 16:16, the Lord says through his prophet, Jeremiah, "Behold, I will send for many fishers...and they shall fish them; and after will I send for many hunters, and they shall hunt them from every mountain, and from every hill, and out of the holes of the rocks." He is talking about the time of the Restoration of the gospel in the latter-days and the gathering of Israel. This is an oft-quoted and even memorized verse, but I really appreciated a recent insight shared with me that has opened my eyes to more about what this means for me.
The Savior invited His disciples in Jerusalem to become "fishers of men."
He invites all of us to come to Him and we can be fishers, too, and share the gospel's message and blessings with others. When thinking about missionary work we often think about being fishers and shepherds, but I hadn't thought much about the importance of being hunters. ;) This may sound too aggressive, but I think it's the example that President Monson has taught. Be deliberate, search after and find and rescue the one.
In studying and thinking about being a fisher and being a hunter a little bit more I came across a wonderful article in the June 2015 Ensign, "Fishers of Men" by Elder Scott D. Whiting (my bishop when I was a youth, definitely one of the fisherman in my life). We work together to extend our Heavenly Father's love and message to all of His children.
Here are a few other inspiring talks, videos, songs...
The Savior invited His disciples in Jerusalem to become "fishers of men."
"And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
"And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
"And they straightway left their nets, and followed him." (Matthew 4:18-20)
He invites all of us to come to Him and we can be fishers, too, and share the gospel's message and blessings with others. When thinking about missionary work we often think about being fishers and shepherds, but I hadn't thought much about the importance of being hunters. ;) This may sound too aggressive, but I think it's the example that President Monson has taught. Be deliberate, search after and find and rescue the one.
In studying and thinking about being a fisher and being a hunter a little bit more I came across a wonderful article in the June 2015 Ensign, "Fishers of Men" by Elder Scott D. Whiting (my bishop when I was a youth, definitely one of the fisherman in my life). We work together to extend our Heavenly Father's love and message to all of His children.
Here are a few other inspiring talks, videos, songs...
- "Follow Me, and I will Make You Fishers of Men"
- "Come, Follow Me"
- Fishers of Men
- Reaching Outsiders Within: One by One
- To the Rescue Young Single Adults
- Elder Bednar in England
- The Net Gathers of Every Kind by Elder Neal A. Maxwell, October 1980
- To the Rescue by President Thomas S. Monson, April 2001
- One by One: The Fifth Gospel's Model of Service by Richard Holzapfel, 2003
- Concern for the One by Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, April 2008
- Being a More Christian Christian by Elder Robert D. Hales, October 2012
- Our Responsibility to Rescue by President Thomas S. Monson, October 2013
- Look for the one, June 2016
- One by One (a beautiful song!!) by Elder David A. Bednar, July 2016 (the story)
Have you fished? Have you hunted? When have you been fished for? hunted after? How did you feel? When helping others come to Christ we must do the work His way and by His Spirit...and I think often it is one person at a time.
I remember a day on a bus in Pusan, Korea in 2001 when I learned for myself how much our Heavenly Father loves each of His children, individually. We weren't the only Christian missionaries in Korea. Religion was actually discussed quite a bit and other churches proselyted...on the streets, on the buses, door-to-door. It wasn't unusual for someone to get on the bus and start shouting their message to the whole busload of people hoping they could convert a large group at once. ;) I would chuckle to myself sometimes when I was sitting on one of these buses, but I have to admit that sometimes I wondered whether that might not have been more effective - why not shout to all the bus, all the world the important message we had of the restoration? :) I remember distinctly an impression one of those days, "No, that's not how we do it. Each person will have their chance to learn and understand and come to know the gospel for himself/herself. This message, this plan, this gospel is for each individual and He sends one missionary to one individual to teach and bring them to Christ."
That's the same pattern we see in 3 Nephi 11:14-15 when the Savior invites every individual to come and feel the marks in his hands and feet for themselves. It's the same lesson He gives in the parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15:3-7. He loves us and will find us and bring us home....and He asks us to be fishers, and shepherds, and hunters to seek after His sheep. What a blessing for us and for them! Our Heavenly Father truly loves each of us!
I remember a day on a bus in Pusan, Korea in 2001 when I learned for myself how much our Heavenly Father loves each of His children, individually. We weren't the only Christian missionaries in Korea. Religion was actually discussed quite a bit and other churches proselyted...on the streets, on the buses, door-to-door. It wasn't unusual for someone to get on the bus and start shouting their message to the whole busload of people hoping they could convert a large group at once. ;) I would chuckle to myself sometimes when I was sitting on one of these buses, but I have to admit that sometimes I wondered whether that might not have been more effective - why not shout to all the bus, all the world the important message we had of the restoration? :) I remember distinctly an impression one of those days, "No, that's not how we do it. Each person will have their chance to learn and understand and come to know the gospel for himself/herself. This message, this plan, this gospel is for each individual and He sends one missionary to one individual to teach and bring them to Christ."
That's the same pattern we see in 3 Nephi 11:14-15 when the Savior invites every individual to come and feel the marks in his hands and feet for themselves. It's the same lesson He gives in the parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15:3-7. He loves us and will find us and bring us home....and He asks us to be fishers, and shepherds, and hunters to seek after His sheep. What a blessing for us and for them! Our Heavenly Father truly loves each of us!
Friday, July 15, 2016
invisible
Have you ever wanted to be invisible? Or felt like you were invisible? It might sounds silly or like something out of a Harry Potter movie, but I've realized lately that I have a problem with wanting to be invisible. This post might be sharing too much, but then I think that's the whole problem - I may need to be more open, vulnerable, visible. ;) So, here goes... This is my attempt to try to start to figure out and overcome (at least to some degree) my desire to be invisible. :)
I've thought and written a little about this before (okay, a lot, but I didn't realize it):
Marianne Williamson has said, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
How can we...how can I be true? genuine? By being visible. Being me. ;) I think one reason I've liked "A Window to His Love" so much and why I feel invisible is because I'm an introvert. I like to be in the background. I recharge by having quiet time to myself and this song seemed to give me permission to be that - quiet, in the background, invisible, but....maybe that's selfish. By not inserting myself or allowing others into my life I'm not giving all that I can or should and not growing as I could, either. I think that what I sometimes saw as "humility" or an occasional lack of confidence might actually have been a form of pride. Interestingly enough I just found this article by Julie de Azevedo Hanks (the one who wrote "Window to His Love") - 4 Ways What You Think is Humility Could Actually be Pride. Good article!
I work in a setting where I relate to the idea of wanting "to be so pure and clear that [no one will] even know I'm here, 'cause His love will shine brightly through me." I don't want to do anything to diminish or distract or tarnish, so sometimes I think it's best to be "invisible" and not insert myself. And again it goes along with my introverted personality and the fact that I like to observe. ;) I love this blog post by a friend of mine that I knew in DC. I've felt similarly sometimes - “Enough had been thought, and said, and felt, and imagined. It was about time that something should be done.” :)
I think this being invisible thing is related to faith, fear - confidence, courage - humility, pride - passive, active - visible, seen, real, open, vulnerable, broken - being present, connected - showing who you are, the good the bad - being genuine - accepting love and giving love - remembering that no man is an island - being mindful - repenting, changing, growing - being committed and invested.
Elder Quentin L. Cook posted something related and helpful on Facebook recently:
"It is common today to hide one’s identity....What we are seeing in society is that when people wear the mask of anonymity, they are more likely to engage in [hateful] conduct, which is so destructive of civil discourse. It also violates the basic principles the Savior taught.
"The righteous need not wear masks to hide their identity. I encourage you to continue to seek to become who you should be—a disciple of Jesus Christ in thought and in action. Set goals to apply Christlike attributes to your lives and pray for help in developing them. As you do, you will allow yourself to be an influence for good wherever you are."
I don't think we need to insert ourselves or draw attention to ourselves unnecessarily. I think there is still value to being observant, thoughtful, and considerate of others and those qualities are valued in some instances, I'm sure, but for me (and maybe others like me) I think I may need to be more aware of the times where I turn inward and assume speaking up might be getting in the way.
Maybe a better word for me in that song might be 'instrument'....instead of being a window to His love maybe I need to work on being an instrument in His hands. I shouldn't focus on not being seen, but on using my unique talents and experiences to do His work and His will. That could be scary and hard, so that's where the faith, repentance, courage comes in. Ultimately, I think many of these thoughts come down to the fact that we need to try to become more like the Savior. I think that's really the intent behind those words - window and instrument. He was never invisible. He was always there giving and caring about everyone around him. Even when He looked for time alone there were often people that followed and He would still reach out and treat everyone with respect and love. He had no selfish desires, but was open to giving and loving others, being seen, being a part of the world around Him then and still. :) He's there, not hidden from us.
As we learn of Him, walk with Him, I believe we find more confidence and courage to do His will. I don't think it will have anything to do with being invisible, but in being alive and active and involved and happy. Believing in Him helps us believe in ourselves and with His help we can be more than we thought possible. That's the Plan and that's the power of His love that He wants us to feel and then share. ;) "Charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever" (Moroni 7:44-48).
I've thought and written a little about this before (okay, a lot, but I didn't realize it):
- Connected (September 2011)
- Here to Learn (June 2012)
- Team, Community, Companionship, Connections (August 2012)
- Inspired (July 2012)
- Courage, Confidence (August 2012)
- Confidence in Him (October 2012)
- Window to His Love (June 2013)
- Freedom (July 2013)
- Claustrophobia vs. an open heart (July 2013)
- music (September 2013)
- Do you have room? (December 2013)
- Accepting Love (February 2014)
- When our fears shall flee away (October 2015)
- To Be Known (January 2016)
Marianne Williamson has said, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
How can we...how can I be true? genuine? By being visible. Being me. ;) I think one reason I've liked "A Window to His Love" so much and why I feel invisible is because I'm an introvert. I like to be in the background. I recharge by having quiet time to myself and this song seemed to give me permission to be that - quiet, in the background, invisible, but....maybe that's selfish. By not inserting myself or allowing others into my life I'm not giving all that I can or should and not growing as I could, either. I think that what I sometimes saw as "humility" or an occasional lack of confidence might actually have been a form of pride. Interestingly enough I just found this article by Julie de Azevedo Hanks (the one who wrote "Window to His Love") - 4 Ways What You Think is Humility Could Actually be Pride. Good article!
I work in a setting where I relate to the idea of wanting "to be so pure and clear that [no one will] even know I'm here, 'cause His love will shine brightly through me." I don't want to do anything to diminish or distract or tarnish, so sometimes I think it's best to be "invisible" and not insert myself. And again it goes along with my introverted personality and the fact that I like to observe. ;) I love this blog post by a friend of mine that I knew in DC. I've felt similarly sometimes - “Enough had been thought, and said, and felt, and imagined. It was about time that something should be done.” :)
I think this being invisible thing is related to faith, fear - confidence, courage - humility, pride - passive, active - visible, seen, real, open, vulnerable, broken - being present, connected - showing who you are, the good the bad - being genuine - accepting love and giving love - remembering that no man is an island - being mindful - repenting, changing, growing - being committed and invested.
Elder Quentin L. Cook posted something related and helpful on Facebook recently:
"It is common today to hide one’s identity....What we are seeing in society is that when people wear the mask of anonymity, they are more likely to engage in [hateful] conduct, which is so destructive of civil discourse. It also violates the basic principles the Savior taught.
"The righteous need not wear masks to hide their identity. I encourage you to continue to seek to become who you should be—a disciple of Jesus Christ in thought and in action. Set goals to apply Christlike attributes to your lives and pray for help in developing them. As you do, you will allow yourself to be an influence for good wherever you are."
I don't think we need to insert ourselves or draw attention to ourselves unnecessarily. I think there is still value to being observant, thoughtful, and considerate of others and those qualities are valued in some instances, I'm sure, but for me (and maybe others like me) I think I may need to be more aware of the times where I turn inward and assume speaking up might be getting in the way.
Maybe a better word for me in that song might be 'instrument'....instead of being a window to His love maybe I need to work on being an instrument in His hands. I shouldn't focus on not being seen, but on using my unique talents and experiences to do His work and His will. That could be scary and hard, so that's where the faith, repentance, courage comes in. Ultimately, I think many of these thoughts come down to the fact that we need to try to become more like the Savior. I think that's really the intent behind those words - window and instrument. He was never invisible. He was always there giving and caring about everyone around him. Even when He looked for time alone there were often people that followed and He would still reach out and treat everyone with respect and love. He had no selfish desires, but was open to giving and loving others, being seen, being a part of the world around Him then and still. :) He's there, not hidden from us.
As we learn of Him, walk with Him, I believe we find more confidence and courage to do His will. I don't think it will have anything to do with being invisible, but in being alive and active and involved and happy. Believing in Him helps us believe in ourselves and with His help we can be more than we thought possible. That's the Plan and that's the power of His love that He wants us to feel and then share. ;) "Charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever" (Moroni 7:44-48).
Sunday, January 31, 2016
To Be Known
I have been thinking a lot lately about the importance of being known! I have a lot of thoughts about this and still much to learn and understand, but this is my attempt at trying to organize some current thoughts somehow. ;)
The last few months have been a bit of a transition for me....from some things that were set and comfortable and known to much that is new and starting over. I haven't changed everything, so there are still some things that are known, but I have new neighbors, a new ward, a new commute, a new routine, and hopefully new friends. ;) I enjoy new and change and chances to grow and learn, so I'm grateful for this opportunity, but that doesn't make it easy (especially at the beginning).
I have come to understand that probably the hardest, but most exciting part of change is starting over and not being known - having to prove yourself again. It's an opportunity to decide who you want to be and change some things pretty easily since people don't know the old you, but because they don't know the old you, you have to tell them or show them (or sometimes even remind yourself) who that is. That can be hard.
Starting over the number of times that I have is exciting, but exhausting and overwhelming! Maybe part of what makes it overwhelming is trying to live up to some kind of expectation that I set for the new. When seeking change, I'm hoping the new is better than the old, so when I feel like I'm moving backwards at all that can be frustrating. Part of the "backward" can be just getting back to the place I was before - comfortable, known. :) Building reputation, trust, and getting to know people can be exhausting!
One thing I appreciate very much in such a transition is someone who is genuinely interested in wanting to know who I am...not just my name and my job title and where I'm from, but about what really makes me who I am and who I hope to be. Some people are so good at this and they are such a blessing! I realize even more the importance of being that kind of person myself - getting past the superficial and wanting to learn and really "know" someone....being open, being vulnerable, being there.
There's really no place like home - where you're known. ;) It's a blessing to have people in your life that KNOW you, really know you! You don't have to explain, they know your background, where you've been, where you hope to go, how you think you might want to get there, and everything in between. These people are also good at letting you grow and change and become better.
What I'm thinking about doesn't have anything to do with fame or showiness or pride. To me, "being known" is a very quiet, personal thing. I see it very related to the invitation in John 17:3, "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." This is something we do on our own quietly.
The last few months have been a bit of a transition for me....from some things that were set and comfortable and known to much that is new and starting over. I haven't changed everything, so there are still some things that are known, but I have new neighbors, a new ward, a new commute, a new routine, and hopefully new friends. ;) I enjoy new and change and chances to grow and learn, so I'm grateful for this opportunity, but that doesn't make it easy (especially at the beginning).
I have come to understand that probably the hardest, but most exciting part of change is starting over and not being known - having to prove yourself again. It's an opportunity to decide who you want to be and change some things pretty easily since people don't know the old you, but because they don't know the old you, you have to tell them or show them (or sometimes even remind yourself) who that is. That can be hard.
Starting over the number of times that I have is exciting, but exhausting and overwhelming! Maybe part of what makes it overwhelming is trying to live up to some kind of expectation that I set for the new. When seeking change, I'm hoping the new is better than the old, so when I feel like I'm moving backwards at all that can be frustrating. Part of the "backward" can be just getting back to the place I was before - comfortable, known. :) Building reputation, trust, and getting to know people can be exhausting!
One thing I appreciate very much in such a transition is someone who is genuinely interested in wanting to know who I am...not just my name and my job title and where I'm from, but about what really makes me who I am and who I hope to be. Some people are so good at this and they are such a blessing! I realize even more the importance of being that kind of person myself - getting past the superficial and wanting to learn and really "know" someone....being open, being vulnerable, being there.
There's really no place like home - where you're known. ;) It's a blessing to have people in your life that KNOW you, really know you! You don't have to explain, they know your background, where you've been, where you hope to go, how you think you might want to get there, and everything in between. These people are also good at letting you grow and change and become better.
What I'm thinking about doesn't have anything to do with fame or showiness or pride. To me, "being known" is a very quiet, personal thing. I see it very related to the invitation in John 17:3, "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." This is something we do on our own quietly.
While it's a quiet and personal relationship, it's also very important to spend the time! In Matthew 7:21-23 the Savior says, "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven....And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." There is also Matthew 25:12 where Jesus tells the five foolish virgins, "I know you not" when they come late "saying, Lord, Lord open to us." The Joseph Smith Translation corrects each of these slightly to "Ye never knew me" and "Ye know me not." So, I guess what I'm saying is, the ball is in our court - to be known we must know someone else - spend the time, make the effort, love, care, sacrifice. As we focus on relationships I believe we will be blessed and happy!
I recently read a neat book by Robert L. Millet - Coming to Know Christ. It touches on some of these same topics and is where some of these thoughts originated. As much as I would like to be understood and loved, I realize that it is in loving that we are loved and find love....and in knowing that we are known. ;) I think that part of this is having the confidence to be yourself (even in new situations) and assume that others want to know you. ;)
A couple of other interesting thoughts on this subject:
- Mosiah 26:24
- "It Is Not Good That...Man Should Be Alone" - talk by President Kevin J. Worthen
...and I think this is the perfect spot to start the 14-day challenge - #LoveOneAnother! <3
Sunday, June 28, 2015
Sunday Strengthening
Today was a difficult, but wonderful day that helped me see who I am and who I need to be. I wasn't quite prepared, but had the opportunity to publicly share and defend my testimony of some very important principles that are being challenged right now. The experience (after all was said and done) strengthened me and helped me clarify and understand even more surely what I believe and also how I need to prepare to do that better and with greater love in the coming days. :) I'm grateful. I love the Lord. I know that our Heavenly Father loves us (and every one of His children, our brothers and sisters) perfectly and His plan is perfect! Jesus Christ is the way! The quest of our lifetime is to learn Their plan and live Their teachings. ;)
A few things that strengthened me today:
Divine Attributes of Christ: Virtue. Our visiting teaching message this month was particularly sweet and important to me today. President Faust taught, "Virtue in its fuller sense encompasses all traits of righteousness that help us form our character." President Hinckley adds, "Love of God is the root of all virtue, of all goodness, of all strength of character." And I love this quote from the lesson: "Through His virtue, Christ can heal, enable, strengthen, comfort, and cheer when we choose with courage and faith to reach out to Him." While talking with several different sisters about how virtue empowers and strengthens us I was inspired by their examples of goodness and
Why Marriage, Why Family by Elder D. Todd Christofferson, April 2015. I don't know if there could have been a more timely talk to study in Relief Society and I learned much! A few highlights:
"If in the course of our mortal experience, we chose to “do all things whatsoever the Lord [our] God [should] command [us],” we would have kept our “second estate.” This means that by our choices we would demonstrate to God (and to ourselves) our commitment and capacity to live His celestial law while outside His presence and in a physical body with all its powers, appetites, and passions. Could we bridle the flesh so that it became the instrument rather than the master of the spirit? Could we be trusted both in time and eternity with godly powers, including power to create life? Would we individually overcome evil? Those who did would “have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever”—a very significant aspect of that glory being a resurrected, immortal, and glorified physical body. No wonder we “shouted for joy” at these magnificent possibilities and promises."
"A family built on the marriage of a man and woman supplies the best setting for God’s plan to thrive—the setting for the birth of children, who come in purity and innocence from God, and the environment for the learning and preparation they will need for a successful mortal life and eternal life in the world to come. A critical mass of families built on such marriages is vital for societies to survive and flourish. That is why communities and nations generally have encouraged and protected marriage and the family as privileged institutions. It has never been just about the love and happiness of adults."
"Our claims for the role of marriage and family rest not on social science but on the truth that they are God’s creation. It is He who in the beginning created Adam and Eve in His image, male and female, and joined them as husband and wife to become “one flesh” and to multiply and replenish the earth. Each individual carries the divine image, but it is in the matrimonial union of male and female as one that we attain perhaps the most complete meaning of our having been made in the image of God—male and female. Neither we nor any other mortal can alter this divine order of matrimony. It is not a human invention. Such marriage is indeed “from above, from God” and is as much a part of the plan of happiness as the Fall and the Atonement."
"In the premortal world, Lucifer rebelled against God and His plan, and his opposition only grows in intensity. He fights to discourage marriage and the formation of families, and where marriages and families are formed, he does what he can to disrupt them. He attacks everything that is sacred."
"To declare the fundamental truths relative to marriage and family is not to overlook or diminish the sacrifices and successes of those for whom the ideal is not a present reality....everyone has gifts; everyone has talents; everyone can contribute to the unfolding of the divine plan in each generation. Much that is good, much that is essential—even sometimes all that is necessary for now—can be achieved in less than ideal circumstances. So many of you are doing your very best. And when you who bear the heaviest burdens of mortality stand up in defense of God’s plan to exalt His children, we are all ready to march. With confidence we testify that the Atonement of Jesus Christ has anticipated and, in the end, will compensate all deprivation and loss for those who turn to Him. No one is predestined to receive less than all that the Father has for His children."
"May we each find approval in His sight. May marriages flourish and families prosper, and whether our lot is a fulness of these blessings in mortality or not, may the Lord’s grace bring happiness now and faith in sure promises to come."
The Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts—what we have done. It is an acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have become. It is not enough for anyone just to go through the motions. The commandments, ordinances, and covenants of the gospel are not a list of deposits required to be made in some heavenly account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan that shows us how to become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become.
The Master’s reward in the Final Judgment will not be based on how long we have labored in the vineyard. We do not obtain our heavenly reward by punching a time clock. What is essential is that our labors in the workplace of the Lord have caused us to become something. For some of us, this requires a longer time than for others. What is important in the end is what we have become by our labors.
Promises Are Sure. The music and messages of sacrament meeting helped me remember the great love our Savior has for us and the need for us to show our love for Him. I was also reminded of the importance of remembering the Lord's promises. He keeps thems. We have also made promises with Him and must remember to keep them, too. (President Eyring taught this sweetly in October 2012.)
A few things that strengthened me today:
Divine Attributes of Christ: Virtue. Our visiting teaching message this month was particularly sweet and important to me today. President Faust taught, "Virtue in its fuller sense encompasses all traits of righteousness that help us form our character." President Hinckley adds, "Love of God is the root of all virtue, of all goodness, of all strength of character." And I love this quote from the lesson: "Through His virtue, Christ can heal, enable, strengthen, comfort, and cheer when we choose with courage and faith to reach out to Him." While talking with several different sisters about how virtue empowers and strengthens us I was inspired by their examples of goodness and
Why Marriage, Why Family by Elder D. Todd Christofferson, April 2015. I don't know if there could have been a more timely talk to study in Relief Society and I learned much! A few highlights:
"If in the course of our mortal experience, we chose to “do all things whatsoever the Lord [our] God [should] command [us],” we would have kept our “second estate.” This means that by our choices we would demonstrate to God (and to ourselves) our commitment and capacity to live His celestial law while outside His presence and in a physical body with all its powers, appetites, and passions. Could we bridle the flesh so that it became the instrument rather than the master of the spirit? Could we be trusted both in time and eternity with godly powers, including power to create life? Would we individually overcome evil? Those who did would “have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever”—a very significant aspect of that glory being a resurrected, immortal, and glorified physical body. No wonder we “shouted for joy” at these magnificent possibilities and promises."
"A family built on the marriage of a man and woman supplies the best setting for God’s plan to thrive—the setting for the birth of children, who come in purity and innocence from God, and the environment for the learning and preparation they will need for a successful mortal life and eternal life in the world to come. A critical mass of families built on such marriages is vital for societies to survive and flourish. That is why communities and nations generally have encouraged and protected marriage and the family as privileged institutions. It has never been just about the love and happiness of adults."
"Our claims for the role of marriage and family rest not on social science but on the truth that they are God’s creation. It is He who in the beginning created Adam and Eve in His image, male and female, and joined them as husband and wife to become “one flesh” and to multiply and replenish the earth. Each individual carries the divine image, but it is in the matrimonial union of male and female as one that we attain perhaps the most complete meaning of our having been made in the image of God—male and female. Neither we nor any other mortal can alter this divine order of matrimony. It is not a human invention. Such marriage is indeed “from above, from God” and is as much a part of the plan of happiness as the Fall and the Atonement."
"In the premortal world, Lucifer rebelled against God and His plan, and his opposition only grows in intensity. He fights to discourage marriage and the formation of families, and where marriages and families are formed, he does what he can to disrupt them. He attacks everything that is sacred."
"To declare the fundamental truths relative to marriage and family is not to overlook or diminish the sacrifices and successes of those for whom the ideal is not a present reality....everyone has gifts; everyone has talents; everyone can contribute to the unfolding of the divine plan in each generation. Much that is good, much that is essential—even sometimes all that is necessary for now—can be achieved in less than ideal circumstances. So many of you are doing your very best. And when you who bear the heaviest burdens of mortality stand up in defense of God’s plan to exalt His children, we are all ready to march. With confidence we testify that the Atonement of Jesus Christ has anticipated and, in the end, will compensate all deprivation and loss for those who turn to Him. No one is predestined to receive less than all that the Father has for His children."
"May we each find approval in His sight. May marriages flourish and families prosper, and whether our lot is a fulness of these blessings in mortality or not, may the Lord’s grace bring happiness now and faith in sure promises to come."
Final Judgment. I had prepared to teach this lesson which brought me to these beautiful quotes and an even more real discussion than I had anticipated that helped me truly see "how great the wisdom and the love" of our Father's "grand design where justice, love, and mercy meet in harmony divine!"
The Measure of our Hearts by Elder Marvin J. Ashton, October 1988
When the Lord measures an individual, He does not take a tape measure around the person’s head to determine his mental capacity, nor his chest to determine his manliness, but He measures the heart as an indicator of the person’s capacity and potential to bless others.
Why the heart? Because the heart is a synonym for one’s entire makeup. We often use phrases about the heart to describe the total person. Thus, we describe people as being “big-hearted” or “good hearted” or having a “heart of gold.” Or we speak of people with faint hearts, wise hearts, pure hearts, willing hearts, deceitful hearts, conniving hearts, courageous hearts,cold hearts, hearts of stone, or selfish hearts.
The measure of our hearts is the measure of our total performance. As used by the Lord, the “heart” of a person describes his effort to better self, or others, or the conditions he confronts.
When the Lord measures an individual, He does not take a tape measure around the person’s head to determine his mental capacity, nor his chest to determine his manliness, but He measures the heart as an indicator of the person’s capacity and potential to bless others.
Why the heart? Because the heart is a synonym for one’s entire makeup. We often use phrases about the heart to describe the total person. Thus, we describe people as being “big-hearted” or “good hearted” or having a “heart of gold.” Or we speak of people with faint hearts, wise hearts, pure hearts, willing hearts, deceitful hearts, conniving hearts, courageous hearts,cold hearts, hearts of stone, or selfish hearts.
The measure of our hearts is the measure of our total performance. As used by the Lord, the “heart” of a person describes his effort to better self, or others, or the conditions he confronts.
The Challenge to Become by Elder Dallin H. Oaks, October 2000
In contrast to the institutions of the world, which teach us to know something, the gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us to become something.
The Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts—what we have done. It is an acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have become. It is not enough for anyone just to go through the motions. The commandments, ordinances, and covenants of the gospel are not a list of deposits required to be made in some heavenly account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan that shows us how to become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become.
The Master’s reward in the Final Judgment will not be based on how long we have labored in the vineyard. We do not obtain our heavenly reward by punching a time clock. What is essential is that our labors in the workplace of the Lord have caused us to become something. For some of us, this requires a longer time than for others. What is important in the end is what we have become by our labors.
According to the Desires of our Hearts by Elder Neal A. Maxwell, October 1996
Therefore, what we insistently desire, over time, is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity. “For I [said the Lord] will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts” (D&C 137:9; see also Jer. 17:10).
God thus takes into merciful account not only our desires and our performance, but also the degrees of difficulty which our varied circumstances impose upon us. No wonder we will not complain at the final judgment, especially since even the telestial kingdom’s glory “surpasses all understanding” (D&C 76:89). God delights in blessing us, especially when we realize “joy in that which [we] have desired” (D&C 7:8).
However, in contrast to God’s merciful plan for our joy and glory, Satan “[desires] that all men might be miserable like unto himself” (2 Ne. 2:27).
Like it or not, therefore, reality requires that we acknowledge our responsibility for our desires. Brothers and sisters, which do we really desire, God’s plans for us or Satan’s?
Righteous desires need to be relentless, therefore, because, said President Brigham Young, “the men and women, who desire to obtain seats in the celestial kingdom, will find that they must battle every day”. Therefore, true Christian soldiers are more than weekend warriors.
“Do you,” President Young asked, “think that people will obey the truth because it is true, unless they love it? No, they will not”. Thus knowing gospel truths and doctrines is profoundly important, but we must also come to love them. When we love them, they will move us and help our desires and outward works to become more holy.
God thus takes into merciful account not only our desires and our performance, but also the degrees of difficulty which our varied circumstances impose upon us. No wonder we will not complain at the final judgment, especially since even the telestial kingdom’s glory “surpasses all understanding” (D&C 76:89). God delights in blessing us, especially when we realize “joy in that which [we] have desired” (D&C 7:8).
However, in contrast to God’s merciful plan for our joy and glory, Satan “[desires] that all men might be miserable like unto himself” (2 Ne. 2:27).
Like it or not, therefore, reality requires that we acknowledge our responsibility for our desires. Brothers and sisters, which do we really desire, God’s plans for us or Satan’s?
Righteous desires need to be relentless, therefore, because, said President Brigham Young, “the men and women, who desire to obtain seats in the celestial kingdom, will find that they must battle every day”. Therefore, true Christian soldiers are more than weekend warriors.
“Do you,” President Young asked, “think that people will obey the truth because it is true, unless they love it? No, they will not”. Thus knowing gospel truths and doctrines is profoundly important, but we must also come to love them. When we love them, they will move us and help our desires and outward works to become more holy.
Promises Are Sure. The music and messages of sacrament meeting helped me remember the great love our Savior has for us and the need for us to show our love for Him. I was also reminded of the importance of remembering the Lord's promises. He keeps thems. We have also made promises with Him and must remember to keep them, too. (President Eyring taught this sweetly in October 2012.)
Mormon 9:21, "Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth."
Psalms 12:6, "The words of the Lord are pure words; as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times."
O Savior, Thou Who Wearest a Crown
Psalms 12:6, "The words of the Lord are pure words; as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times."
O Savior, Thou Who Wearest a Crown
No creature is so lowly, No sinner so depraved,
But feels thy presence holy And thru thy love is saved.
Tho craven friends betray thee, They feel thy love's embrace;
The very foes who slay thee Have access to thy grace.
Thy sacrifice transcended The mortal law's demand;
Thy mercy is extended To ev'ry time and land.
No more can Satan harm us, Tho long the fight may be,
Nor fear of death alarm us; We live, O Lord, thru thee.
What praises can we offer To thank thee, Lord most high?
In our place thou didst suffer; In our place thou didst die,
By heaven's plan appointed, To ransom us, our King.
O Jesus, the anointed, To thee our love we bring!
God of Our Fathers
God of our fathers, whose almighty hand Leads forth in beauty all the starry band
Of shining worlds in splendor through the skies, Our grateful songs before thy throne arise.Thy love divine hath led us in the past; In this free land by thee our lot is cast.
Be thou our Ruler, Guardian, Guide, and Stay, Thy word our law, thy paths our chosen way.From war's alarms, from deadly pestilence, Be thy strong arm our ever-sure defense.
Thy true religion in our hearts increase. Thy bounteous goodness nourish us in peace.
My main take-aways from this day of strengthening:
* We owe all of our love and loyalty to our Heavenly Father and His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Their plan and Their love is perfect. Their promises are sure.
* I need to spend more time and energy in knowing and loving and serving the Lord and defending Him with love.
* "There is but one who offers perfect love.... In the arms of His love there is safety....peace. There is one who is just. There is one we can trust. We are safe in the arms of His love." (The song is beautiful and this talk by Elder Maxwell is incredible!)
* "The Lord needs valiant servants to do His work in the latter-days, who follow the teachings of Jesus and serve His people in a loving way....I'll stand for truth, I'll stand for right. The Lord can depend on me."
But feels thy presence holy And thru thy love is saved.
Tho craven friends betray thee, They feel thy love's embrace;
The very foes who slay thee Have access to thy grace.
Thy sacrifice transcended The mortal law's demand;
Thy mercy is extended To ev'ry time and land.
No more can Satan harm us, Tho long the fight may be,
Nor fear of death alarm us; We live, O Lord, thru thee.
What praises can we offer To thank thee, Lord most high?
In our place thou didst suffer; In our place thou didst die,
By heaven's plan appointed, To ransom us, our King.
O Jesus, the anointed, To thee our love we bring!
God of Our Fathers
God of our fathers, whose almighty hand Leads forth in beauty all the starry band
Of shining worlds in splendor through the skies, Our grateful songs before thy throne arise.Thy love divine hath led us in the past; In this free land by thee our lot is cast.
Be thou our Ruler, Guardian, Guide, and Stay, Thy word our law, thy paths our chosen way.From war's alarms, from deadly pestilence, Be thy strong arm our ever-sure defense.
Thy true religion in our hearts increase. Thy bounteous goodness nourish us in peace.
My main take-aways from this day of strengthening:
* We owe all of our love and loyalty to our Heavenly Father and His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Their plan and Their love is perfect. Their promises are sure.
* I need to spend more time and energy in knowing and loving and serving the Lord and defending Him with love.
* "There is but one who offers perfect love.... In the arms of His love there is safety....peace. There is one who is just. There is one we can trust. We are safe in the arms of His love." (The song is beautiful and this talk by Elder Maxwell is incredible!)
* "The Lord needs valiant servants to do His work in the latter-days, who follow the teachings of Jesus and serve His people in a loving way....I'll stand for truth, I'll stand for right. The Lord can depend on me."
Saturday, May 30, 2015
What's the point?
My heart has been heavy and hurting a bit the last week or so - for a variety of reasons. I've thought about the fragileness of life and relationships and it made me think for a few minutes, "What's the point....of life, of trying, etc?" And the answer came to me: "The point is.....live today, serve today, make a difference right now where you are." That's all we have - today! So, if we do something right now instead of worry about something in the past or waiting for something coming up or stressing about something more we need to do tomorrow, we will be happy and we will make a difference. :)
A few related thoughts and inspiration I've found the past couple of days:
1. Life is eternal. It is all one and the same before the Lord. We can turn to Him and feel His love now and daily and always. I saw this Carl Bloch painting in the Salt Lake Temple today. For some reason it really touched me and the eternalness of life really struck me. The Lord is here for us now.
Elder Maxwell taught, "The Lord said comfortingly, 'I am in your midst' (D&C 38:7). 'And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours' (D&C 78:18).
Enoch rejoiced, and so can you over the grand, consoling reality regarding God: 'And yet thou art there' (Moses 7:30).
God, who lives in 'eternal now,' is relentlessly and lovingly accomplishing His work, using His unique foreknowledge to ensure that all His purposes will prevail—not just some of them."
"Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, even so will he clothe you, if ye are not of little faith.
A few related thoughts and inspiration I've found the past couple of days:
1. Life is eternal. It is all one and the same before the Lord. We can turn to Him and feel His love now and daily and always. I saw this Carl Bloch painting in the Salt Lake Temple today. For some reason it really touched me and the eternalness of life really struck me. The Lord is here for us now.
Enoch rejoiced, and so can you over the grand, consoling reality regarding God: 'And yet thou art there' (Moses 7:30).
God, who lives in 'eternal now,' is relentlessly and lovingly accomplishing His work, using His unique foreknowledge to ensure that all His purposes will prevail—not just some of them."
2. Live today. So these verses may have been spoken to the Quorum of the Twelve, but I think they give each of us insights into what we should (and should not) worry about and focus on:
"Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
"For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.
"Take therefore no thought for the morrow, for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient is the day unto the evil thereof." (3 Nephi 13:30-34)
"The Lord is very kind. Even though some experiences are hard, he floods your mind with memories and gives you other opportunities. Life doesn't end just because you have a tragedy—there's a new mountain to climb. Don't spend a lot of time sulking over what you've lost. Get on with climbing the next mountain." - Elder L. Tom Perry
"For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.
"Take therefore no thought for the morrow, for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient is the day unto the evil thereof." (3 Nephi 13:30-34)
3. Love and serve. Sharon Eubank, Director of LDS Charities, gave a wonderful lecture on May 14 entitled "That They Might Not Suffer." She said that the real work of LDS Charities is to build character and emphasized that we don't have to travel around the world to make a difference and help others. We can serve right in our communities; in fact, serving close to home actually requires giving more of ourselves, more deeply and continually and meaningfully. I was grateful for her invitation to be a pioneer by "braving the frontiers of your own love." :)
We are taught in Alma 1:30, "And thus, in their prosperous circumstances, they did not send away any who were naked, or that were hungry, or that were athirst, or that were sick, or that had not been nourished; and they did not set their hearts upon riches; therefore they were liberal to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, whether out of the church or in the church, having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need."
4. Find joy and climb the next mountain. Two quotes that I love and help put things in perspective:
"We can't predict all the struggles and storms in life, not even the ones just around the next corner, but as persons of faith and hope, we know beyond a shadow of any doubt that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true and the best is yet to come." - Elder L. Tom Perry
Relatedly, I love this BYU Devotional from September 2012 by T. Jeffery Wilks - Optimism in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Brother Wilks reminds us that the world is good. We can look forward with hope (even if it is the end of the semester or when expectations have not been met). He shares a few insights into being positive:
* Righteousness does not mean perfection
* Keep trying anyway
* Focus on Heavenly Father
* Heavenly Father's approval matters most
* Look for and remember the joy in our lives
* Keep a journal
So, the point is..."men are, that they might have joy"!! Choose joy, share joy, be happy today! ;)
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
Did you do what you were supposed to?
I've been reminded a bit lately that meaningful questions are key. We won't learn what we need to if we don't ask. "Therefore, ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for he that asketh, receiveth; and unto him that knocketh, it shall be opened" (3 Nephi 27:29).
We must ask!! And going even further...good questions can teach and inspire. I thought of this post and insight from last October this morning when someone asked me, "How was your weekend? Did you do what you were supposed to?" I like this question, but first, my response: "Good. Yes, I tried." Immediately I thought of Yoda, "Do or do not. There is no try." :) I better try harder. :)
Now, back to the question. Did you do what you were supposed to? I love that and I've been thinking about it all day. First of all, did I do what's right? Did I not get into trouble or make a bad decision? Second, what was I supposed to do this weekend or today or whenever? Was I just going along with whatever happened or did I have a plan and live it? :) Maybe most importantly, did I ask the Lord what He needed me to do and did I do it? :)
I'm grateful for the question and the reminder to ask questions and to live purposefully and proactively - asking for the Lord's guidance and doing what I was "supposed to do," what He wants me do with my time, talents, resources, life.
Here are a few good talks and articles for further study:
* Ask, Seek, Knock by Elder Russell M. Nelson (October 2009)
* Personal Revelation by Elder Robert D. Hales (October 2007)
* What is Your Mission? by Elder John H. Groberg (May 1979)
* What a Patriarchal Blessing Can Do for You
* Ten Ways to Know You Are Converted
We must ask!! And going even further...good questions can teach and inspire. I thought of this post and insight from last October this morning when someone asked me, "How was your weekend? Did you do what you were supposed to?" I like this question, but first, my response: "Good. Yes, I tried." Immediately I thought of Yoda, "Do or do not. There is no try." :) I better try harder. :)
Now, back to the question. Did you do what you were supposed to? I love that and I've been thinking about it all day. First of all, did I do what's right? Did I not get into trouble or make a bad decision? Second, what was I supposed to do this weekend or today or whenever? Was I just going along with whatever happened or did I have a plan and live it? :) Maybe most importantly, did I ask the Lord what He needed me to do and did I do it? :)
I'm grateful for the question and the reminder to ask questions and to live purposefully and proactively - asking for the Lord's guidance and doing what I was "supposed to do," what He wants me do with my time, talents, resources, life.
Here are a few good talks and articles for further study:
* Ask, Seek, Knock by Elder Russell M. Nelson (October 2009)
* Personal Revelation by Elder Robert D. Hales (October 2007)
* What is Your Mission? by Elder John H. Groberg (May 1979)
* What a Patriarchal Blessing Can Do for You
* Ten Ways to Know You Are Converted
Saturday, February 28, 2015
May the light of your soul guide you
Someone gave me this poem this week. I love it! It seems very fitting and particularly inspiring. :)
May the light of your soul guide you by John O'Donohue
May the light of your soul guide you.
May the light of your soul bless the work
You do with the secret love and warmth of your heart.
May you see in what you do the beauty of your own soul.
May the sacredness of your work bring healing, light and renewal to those
Who work with you and to those who see and receive your work.
May your work never weary you.
May it release within you wellsprings of refreshment, inspiration and excitement.
May you be present in what you do.
May you never become lost in the bland absences.
May the day never burden you.
May dawn find you awake and alert, approaching your new day with dreams,
Possibilities and promises.
May evening find you gracious and fulfilled.
May you go into the night blessed, sheltered and protected.
May your soul calm, console and renew you.
May the light of your soul guide you by John O'Donohue
May the light of your soul guide you.
May the light of your soul bless the work
You do with the secret love and warmth of your heart.
May you see in what you do the beauty of your own soul.
May the sacredness of your work bring healing, light and renewal to those
Who work with you and to those who see and receive your work.
May your work never weary you.
May it release within you wellsprings of refreshment, inspiration and excitement.
May you be present in what you do.
May you never become lost in the bland absences.
May the day never burden you.
May dawn find you awake and alert, approaching your new day with dreams,
Possibilities and promises.
May evening find you gracious and fulfilled.
May you go into the night blessed, sheltered and protected.
May your soul calm, console and renew you.
It reminds me of some things I've been thinking about lately regarding knowing who I am and being me - letting my spirit lead. :) It also reminds me of some of these thoughts I wrote about a few years ago:
- Window to His Love (June 2013)
- An Eye Single to His Glory (May 2010)
Monday, December 1, 2014
He is the Gift #ShareTheGift
I LOVE this video that sweetly reminds us of the purpose of Christmas celebrations, gifts, and life itself:
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His Only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His Only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Proclaim the Everlasting Gospel
Today I feel like I need to do better at sharing who I really am and boldly declaring the truths I hold most dear. I'm a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Some people call us Mormons because in addition to the Bible we believe in the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ. I love the Book of Mormon because it teaches me about Jesus Christ, His doctrine and commandments that will help us return to live with our Heavenly Father. They have a plan for us. They love us!
We believe in the same church that Jesus established on the earth when he was here. It has been restored to the earth by Him in its fulness today! We have living prophets on the earth today who have been given priesthood keys and authority and receive revelation from Jesus Christ, who is the head of the Church. Through faith and repentance and the ordinances of His gospel we are blessed and draw closer to God. This is why we are here on the earth - to learn, to progress, to become like Him. He loves us! He loves you! He has a plan for you!
I invite you to watch this short video. It is a recent talk given by Elder David A. Bednar, a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles. You can listen to or read his full talk here - Come and See
Here's a little bit more about what I believe (it's somewhat out of date, but all the important parts haven't changed). I love the gospel of Jesus Christ and His church. I know that He lives and loves us and wants us to be happy. Through Him and because of His Atonement and His gospel we can be, eternally, if we will choose to learn and follow and change and love!
We believe in the same church that Jesus established on the earth when he was here. It has been restored to the earth by Him in its fulness today! We have living prophets on the earth today who have been given priesthood keys and authority and receive revelation from Jesus Christ, who is the head of the Church. Through faith and repentance and the ordinances of His gospel we are blessed and draw closer to God. This is why we are here on the earth - to learn, to progress, to become like Him. He loves us! He loves you! He has a plan for you!
I invite you to watch this short video. It is a recent talk given by Elder David A. Bednar, a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles. You can listen to or read his full talk here - Come and See
Here's a little bit more about what I believe (it's somewhat out of date, but all the important parts haven't changed). I love the gospel of Jesus Christ and His church. I know that He lives and loves us and wants us to be happy. Through Him and because of His Atonement and His gospel we can be, eternally, if we will choose to learn and follow and change and love!
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Family Time
It was kind of like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and everyone's birthday this past week! :) It was so wonderful for the whole family to be together! Most importantly we were celebrating Kayla's eighth birthday and baptism and Hailey's first birthday, but other than that it was just really nice to be together for a few days.
A few of the highlights:
A few of the highlights:
- kalua pig and pineapple
- Mason dancing to "Happy" during Hailey's first birthday video - the kid can dance!! :)
- strawberry and donut sticks until 1:00 am
- color coordinated banners (it's a good thing my kids are missing the birthday luaus, so at least that part of their lives they don't have to compare to their cousins')
- Kayla's baptism
- the baptism video (a five-tissue event)
- being together and talking and laughing
- watching Mason and Noah play together
- watching Henri protect himself from Hailey
- family pictures
- hiking Timp
- watching all the kids sing "Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam" together
- visiting the pumpkin patch
- adventures at City Creek Canyon and Temple Square
- beautiful fall leaves all along the way
It was a fun week! Until the next time, we'll enjoy the pictures and memories....
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