I've been thinking a lot lately about who I am and who I need to be. A few thoughts have come to me as I have participated in a personal develop program at work, attended ward conference, and attended the General Women's Session of General Conference.
Here are a few of my thoughts:
Simplify. Focus. Serve. Act. Build. Share. Feed. Endure. Comfort. Stand. Defend.
Personal Development
I'm still working on creating a personal mission statement and development plan, but have really enjoyed the opportunity to focus on the importance of having a vision for life. Someone shared an experience with trying to shoot a bull's eye. In order to aim correctly he actually couldn't see the target with his eye. In order to actually hit the target we can't focus so much on the future and end goal (eternal life). We must be aware of what's right in front of us (living correctly and doing the things that we need to today). We must live in the present, forget ourselves, and be a servant leader. We should identify and prioritize what we want to work on and be sure to consult with our Advisor, submitting to His will. We must work and act in faith, record our progress, re-evaluate, but not compare ourselves to others. We should avoid pride and only work to please the Lord. I believe that means that we simply keep the commandments, have faith in Him, and remember Him. We work to be filled with His love and then share it as a pure vessel. Maybe I'll share a more finalized version of my mission statement later, but these are some of the things that have been shaping my thoughts lately.
Ward Conference
Relatedly, our ward conference focused on counsel given to David Whitmer in 1829, from Doctrine and Covenants 14:7, "And, if you keep my commandments and endure to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God." We must endure well. Some ideas on what that means: get up and get moving, do something now, get involved, be in tune with the Holy Ghost and obey promptings, don't focus on the things of the world, don't let riches or the cares of the world get in your way (see Matthew 13:22), lose your life for His sake to find it, don't get in the Lord's way, think of and serve others, serve Him, renew and keep our covenants.
Enduring is the fifth principles of the gospel, after faith, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Ghost (see 2 Nephi 31:20). Stress and discomfort is involved when trying to become like God, but we must keep on. Elder Bednar teaches of Elder Neal A. Maxwell's example of enduring with authenticity. Here are a few of Elder Maxwell's talks on the subject of enduring:
* December 1984 - "If Thou Endure it Well"
* April 1990 - "Endure it Well"
* October 1997 - "Applying the Atoning Blood of Christ"
I also think that Elder Hales is a neat example of what it means to endure to the end. I found many wonderful insights from him on this topic from his book, Return: Four Phases of our Mortal Journey Home.
One other thought I was grateful to consider about the subject in our ward conference meetings was the fact that sometimes the hardest part of enduring is knowing how to use our time and finding out the Lord's plan for us and finding meaning in life. In 1995, Elder Scott taught us to Trust in the Lord and to ask ourselves "What am I to do? What am I to learn from this experience? What am I to change?" I think these are important questions as we consider what we must do to endure well.
We must WEARY NOT! :) There awaits a brighter day to all who do not weary by the way. :) I'm reminded that the gospel is simple. We must keep our covenants, be true and faithful, be valiant in our testimonies, become what He wants us to be, and let the gospel consume us with joy!
I'm just finishing two really neat books about pioneers crossing the plains (Fresh Courage Take and The Undaunted) and am reminded of their faithful examples. I think life today requires just as much faith (and maybe more). Some of our challenges may not be as physically apparent, but can be every bit as dangerous. It is so important that we trust in the Lord and keep going!!!
General Women's Session
The General Women's Meeting was another powerful reminder for me of who I am. I am built on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ, part of God's family, and must be a true disciple of Jesus Christ by....
not burying my testimony in the ground, but by seeking and holding on to light and truth, supporting others, loving, doing good, nurturing, defending the family, being one, teaching truth, ministering with power, confronting the mob, having courage and conviction, sanctifying and building a righteous home, faithfully keep my covenants, having faith in the Lord's timing, building the kingdom, defending the Lord's doctrines and His plan, being brave, being steadfast and immovable, comforting those in need of comfort, bearing one another's burdens, lightening others' loads, and bringing peace to others.
I am grateful for our Savior's love. I know He loves us, knows us, and wants to succor us....and that we are bound to Him by loving ties. In Him my heart rejoices! :)
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Spring!
Oh how lovely was the morning and afternoon and evening.... :)
I'm grateful for Spring....and it's been beautiful this year!! It is a wonderful reminder of new beginnings, new life, and lots of HOPE!!! I really liked this article in the Deseret News recently about The Victory of Spring. The warm weather, the beautiful flowers, the longer days, the birds singing make me happy and grateful, I'm most especially grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ and His life and resurrection and the restoration of the gospel that began with Joseph Smith's vision on a spring day just 195 years ago.
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Make Me Whole
It was a special day. It was a special week. I've had the opportunity the past couple of months and weeks to be a part of a choir performing "Lamb of God" by Rob Gardner - a beautiful presentation with orchestra, soloists, and narrators telling the story of Christ's life, particularly the last week of his life and then His glorious resurrection. The main message - "Here is Hope...Hope did not die here, but here was given." :) I've felt that multiple times while practicing and hearing this music. I've been touched, uplifted, inspired and had the chance to watch others be touched as well. I am grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ. I know that He lives! "This is He! Our Hope, Our Deliverer, Our All! Our comfort by day and our song in the night. The Resurrection and the Life. He who shall reign. In whom we will ever rejoice."
Tonight, at our last performance, I was feeling tired, inspired, but mostly.... searching.... wanting to know the Lord's will and wanting to be healed. :) With these thoughts in my mind and while reverently sitting on the stage for the few minutes before the concert was to begin I saw people walking in to take their seats. I noticed towards the back of the audience someone carrying an individual from a wheelchair, someone with obvious physical limitations, someone that I picture being brought to the Savior when He was here on the earth to be healed. I was touched by the desire of these people to be in this place to feel of His love and His healing. I realized again that in some way or another we are all seeking His help and healing. Our faith and belief brought us together tonight to feel and find that for a few minutes.
A few minutes later Martha was singing. Jesus had come when he heard of Lazarus' death. Martha testified of His power to heal, but didn't seem to have any idea that healing and life could come so immediately....
"Lord, if Thou hadst been here, If Thou wouldst have heard us, My brother then would not have died. No. If Thou hadst been here. Thou couldst have saved him. I know that thou couldst have healed him. But, even now, I know that if thou wilt ask of God, What Thou wouldst, God will give thee. What thou asketh, He'll give thee. I know that he shall rise again Lord. I know he shall rise again in the resurrection At the last day." When Jesus testifies to her that He is the resurrection and the life she says, "Yea, Lord; I believe that Thou art the Christ, which should come, The Son of God, But I do not understand..."
This interchange was particularly poignant to me. I think I have not understood. I know that Jesus makes it possible for us to live again....eventually, as Martha said, "at the last day." He can heal us, but He is saying that He is here now, He WILL heal us now, today. :)
Martha continues, "Touch my eyes and bid them see That my gaze might pierce the veil, And behold the wondrous scene That, in dreams, I've long beheld, Oh, touch my heart and bid it know That ev'ry sorrow is but a moment's tear, And Thou wilt make me whole again. Touch my ears and bid them hear All the glory of Thy truth, That my hope might come of faith And no more require proof. oh touch my heart and bid it know That, while in darkness here, The Light is ever near, And Thou wilt make me whole again. Then touch my lips and bid them sing Songs of everlasting praise, That my soul might then believe And give thanks through all my days! Oh, touch my heart and bid it know That ev'ry breath I take is by Thy tender grace, And Thou wilt make me whole, again."
She asked to see as He does, to have Him touch her heart and make her whole. I realize that He can make us, he can make me, whole TODAY. We don't need to wait. He is here to heal and bless and lift and strengthen and change us NOW, but we must believe, we must come to Him and let Him change us, let Him make us whole. I am grateful for His power, His life, His healing, His love!!
Tonight, at our last performance, I was feeling tired, inspired, but mostly.... searching.... wanting to know the Lord's will and wanting to be healed. :) With these thoughts in my mind and while reverently sitting on the stage for the few minutes before the concert was to begin I saw people walking in to take their seats. I noticed towards the back of the audience someone carrying an individual from a wheelchair, someone with obvious physical limitations, someone that I picture being brought to the Savior when He was here on the earth to be healed. I was touched by the desire of these people to be in this place to feel of His love and His healing. I realized again that in some way or another we are all seeking His help and healing. Our faith and belief brought us together tonight to feel and find that for a few minutes.
A few minutes later Martha was singing. Jesus had come when he heard of Lazarus' death. Martha testified of His power to heal, but didn't seem to have any idea that healing and life could come so immediately....
"Lord, if Thou hadst been here, If Thou wouldst have heard us, My brother then would not have died. No. If Thou hadst been here. Thou couldst have saved him. I know that thou couldst have healed him. But, even now, I know that if thou wilt ask of God, What Thou wouldst, God will give thee. What thou asketh, He'll give thee. I know that he shall rise again Lord. I know he shall rise again in the resurrection At the last day." When Jesus testifies to her that He is the resurrection and the life she says, "Yea, Lord; I believe that Thou art the Christ, which should come, The Son of God, But I do not understand..."
This interchange was particularly poignant to me. I think I have not understood. I know that Jesus makes it possible for us to live again....eventually, as Martha said, "at the last day." He can heal us, but He is saying that He is here now, He WILL heal us now, today. :)
Martha continues, "Touch my eyes and bid them see That my gaze might pierce the veil, And behold the wondrous scene That, in dreams, I've long beheld, Oh, touch my heart and bid it know That ev'ry sorrow is but a moment's tear, And Thou wilt make me whole again. Touch my ears and bid them hear All the glory of Thy truth, That my hope might come of faith And no more require proof. oh touch my heart and bid it know That, while in darkness here, The Light is ever near, And Thou wilt make me whole again. Then touch my lips and bid them sing Songs of everlasting praise, That my soul might then believe And give thanks through all my days! Oh, touch my heart and bid it know That ev'ry breath I take is by Thy tender grace, And Thou wilt make me whole, again."
She asked to see as He does, to have Him touch her heart and make her whole. I realize that He can make us, he can make me, whole TODAY. We don't need to wait. He is here to heal and bless and lift and strengthen and change us NOW, but we must believe, we must come to Him and let Him change us, let Him make us whole. I am grateful for His power, His life, His healing, His love!!
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Relax
In the middle of a full and busy week I am very grateful for the temple! It is a place of peace and joy and renewal and learning and focus, but tonight I was seeking peace and particularly time to relax. I had literally thought of that word several times throughout the day while preparing to go. I was excited to and needed to relax! :) That's not a word I would generally use for the temple - generally there's more focus and learning, but tonight I needed to just be there and relax - be still, have peace, find rest. I was pleasantly surprised and grateful when that is the exact word the member of the temple presidency used to welcome our ward to the temple. :) I am grateful for the rest that is there - and there's much more I need to learn about that! :)
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Meaningful
Meaningful. That's how I would describe the day. :)
It started with meaningful work - my job is a blessing in my life and I marvel at the opportunity to be involved and make a difference. I want to be better prepared each day to make a meaningful contribution. Then I spent the evening practicing and singing for youth about the Savior! Meaningful, uplifting, inspiring. Then I stayed up too late trying to figure out who I am and what my mission statement is....it's a work in progress, but the process of study involved was very meaningful and helpful. I'm exhausted, but grateful for meaning in life.
Here is a highlight of one of the songs we sang tonight that reminds me of the greatest joy and hope and meaning we each have in life because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Gloria - My Savior Lives (by Rob Gardner)
Sing, oh my heart, Sing thy rejoicing. Morning has dawned and will stretch forth her wing. No more the night Holds thee his captive, Jesus is risen, my Savior and King! I'll sing Gloria! Glory to the Lord! Gloria! Glory for the life he doth give! Gloria! Gloria! Gloria! Gloria! For my Savior lives!
Why dost thou weep? What is thy longing? Why art thou cast down and turned from the light? Lift up your eyes, Look for the morning, Wait, for the darkness is only the night! And sing Gloria! Glory to the Lord!
Israel rejoice! Sing all creation! Jesus is risen with life in his wings! Raise up your voice, Sing our salvation! Now more than conquerors through Him, our King, Sing we Gloria, Gloria! Glory for the life He doth give! Gloria! Gloria! Gloria! For my Savior lives!
It started with meaningful work - my job is a blessing in my life and I marvel at the opportunity to be involved and make a difference. I want to be better prepared each day to make a meaningful contribution. Then I spent the evening practicing and singing for youth about the Savior! Meaningful, uplifting, inspiring. Then I stayed up too late trying to figure out who I am and what my mission statement is....it's a work in progress, but the process of study involved was very meaningful and helpful. I'm exhausted, but grateful for meaning in life.
Here is a highlight of one of the songs we sang tonight that reminds me of the greatest joy and hope and meaning we each have in life because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Gloria - My Savior Lives (by Rob Gardner)
Sing, oh my heart, Sing thy rejoicing. Morning has dawned and will stretch forth her wing. No more the night Holds thee his captive, Jesus is risen, my Savior and King! I'll sing Gloria! Glory to the Lord! Gloria! Glory for the life he doth give! Gloria! Gloria! Gloria! Gloria! For my Savior lives!
Why dost thou weep? What is thy longing? Why art thou cast down and turned from the light? Lift up your eyes, Look for the morning, Wait, for the darkness is only the night! And sing Gloria! Glory to the Lord!
Israel rejoice! Sing all creation! Jesus is risen with life in his wings! Raise up your voice, Sing our salvation! Now more than conquerors through Him, our King, Sing we Gloria, Gloria! Glory for the life He doth give! Gloria! Gloria! Gloria! For my Savior lives!
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Tiberias
I thought of this place tonight....and it filled me with HOPE and joy and a desire to share....
"So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep."
(See John 21:15-17.)
Monday, March 16, 2015
Give, Said the Little Stream
I may have listened to this about 50 times today. I kind of love it! It makes me smile. It makes me happy. I think this is what life's about.... :)
"Give," said the little stream,
"Give, oh! give, give, oh! give."
"Give," said the little stream,
As it hurried down the hill;
"I'm small, I know, but wherever I go
The fields grow greener still."
Singing, singing all the day,
"Give away, oh! give away."
Singing, singing all the day,
"Give, oh! give away."
Give, then, as Jesus gives,
Give, oh! give, give, oh! give.
Give, then, as Jesus gives;
There is something all can give.
Do as the streams and blossoms do:
For God and others live.
"Give," said the little stream,
"Give, oh! give, give, oh! give."
"Give," said the little stream,
As it hurried down the hill;
"I'm small, I know, but wherever I go
The fields grow greener still."
Singing, singing all the day,
"Give away, oh! give away."
Singing, singing all the day,
"Give, oh! give away."
"Give," said the little rain,
"Give, oh! give, give, oh! give."
"Give," said the little rain,
As it fell upon the flow'rs;
"I'll raise their drooping heads again,"
As it fell upon the flow'rs.
"Give, oh! give, give, oh! give."
"Give," said the little rain,
As it fell upon the flow'rs;
"I'll raise their drooping heads again,"
As it fell upon the flow'rs.
Give, then, as Jesus gives,
Give, oh! give, give, oh! give.
Give, then, as Jesus gives;
There is something all can give.
Do as the streams and blossoms do:
For God and others live.
Sunday, March 8, 2015
Love Never Fails
I heard this song today on the radio. It's pretty great! :) ...and it seems to be very related to 1 Corinthians 13 and Moroni 7 which are also pretty great!
Love Never Fails by Brandon Heath
Love is not proud
Love does not boast
Love after all
Matters the most
Love does not run
Love Never Fails by Brandon Heath
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 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
Love is right here
Love is alive
Love is the way
The truth the life
Love is the river than flows through
Love is the arms that are holding you
Love is the place you will fly to
Love never fails you
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
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 than flows through
Love is the arms that are holding you
Love is the place you will fly to
Love never fails you
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
Monday, March 2, 2015
Things That Matter Most
I'm grateful for fast Sundays, not only for the chance to focus on spiritual health and, with a small sacrifice, show my love to the Lord, but for the chance to attend church where a focus is on sharing testimonies of truth. This particular fast Sunday was special because our stake presidency requested that in Relief Society and Elders Quorum we spend the hour sharing our favorite scriptures about the Atonement. What a wonderful blessing and sweet opportunity to be filled with the Spirit and to feel the Lord's love while focusing on that which is most important and HOPEful.
Joseph Smith taught, "The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it."
It was remarkable and uplifting to hear the sweet testimonies of each sister and the scriptures shared from all the standard works, some more explicitly about the Atonement than others, but all with that same central message of our Heavenly Father and Savior's love and sacrifice that makes possible the hope and peace and purpose and joy in our lives, the opportunity for each of us to change. I was reminded that this really is what it's all about - the scriptures are full of examples of the Lord's love and the Atonement blessing someone.
A few of my favorites (and most favorites) from today:
* 2 Nephi 25: 23, 26
* 2 Nephi 2:6-9
* 2 Nephi 9:21-23, 41
* Jacob 4:11
* Mosiah 3:17
* Mosiah 4:6-9
* Mosiah 13:28
* Mosiah 15:7-9, 18-19
* Alma 7:11-12
* Alma 34:8-10, 15-16
* Alma 36:17-20
* Alma 42:15
* Helaman 5:9
* 3 Nephi 11:14-15
* 3 Nephi 27:13-15
* Ether 3:14
* Moroni 10:32-33
* D&C 18:10-13
* D&C 19:16-19
* D&C 45:3-5
* D&C 138:2-4
* Moses 5:7
* Article of Faith 3
* Luke 22:42-44
* John 3:16-17
* John 11:25
* John 14:6
* Jacob 7:11-12: "And I said unto him: Then ye do not understand them;for they truly testify of Christ. Behold, I say unto you that none of the prophets have written, nor prophesied, save they have spoken concerning this Christ. And this is not all—it has been made manifest unto me,for I have heard and seen; and it also has been made manifest unto me by the power of the Holy Ghost;wherefore, I know if there should be no atonement made all mankind must be lost."
* Mosiah 4:2-3: "And they had viewed themselves in their own carnal state, even less than the dust of the earth. And they all cried aloud with one voice, saying: O have mercy, and apply the atoning blood of Christ that we may receive forgiveness of our sins, and our hearts may be purified; for we believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who created heaven and earth, and all things; who shall come down among the children of men. And it came to pass that after they had spoken these words the Spirit of the Lord came upon them, and they were filled with joy, having received a remission of their sins, and having peace of conscience, because of the exceeding faith which they had in Jesus Christ who should come, according to the words which king Benjamin had spoken unto them."
* Moroni 7:41: "And what is it that ye shall hope for? Behold I say unto you that ye shall have hope through the atonement of Christ and the power of his resurrection, to be raised unto life eternal, and this because of your faith in him according to the promise."
While thinking about this great, singular blessing, I was reminded of the importance of making this message and hope known to the world.
2 Nephi 2:8: "Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy,and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life according to the flesh, and taketh it again by the power of the Spirit, that he may bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, being the first that should rise."
2 Nephi 31:13: "By following your Lord and your Savior down into the water, according to his word, behold, then shall ye receive the Holy Ghost; yea, then cometh the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost; and then can ye speak with the tongue of angels, and shout praises unto the Holy One of Israel."
One other thing that matters most...after a nice day of testimony it was a blessing to spend time with family, particularly listening to my Grandma share her gratitude and testimony and love. She's stalwart in her faith and love for the Lord. I'm always inspired and uplifted when I talk to her, but tonight I was touched by her expression of gratitude for family members helping her clean up after some work on her basement. She talked about feeling overwhelmed with the work to do and grateful for those that came to work and brought hope. She also mentioned the difficulty of giving up her church magazines in the process. She had saved each one since 1952 when they moved into their house. She expressed the loss she felt at not having those inspirational words of prophets and gospel principles tangibly at her finger tips anymore, but I thought it was very sweet and inspirational to me that she said she knew where to look to find those principles - in the lives of her posterity that she had raised and taught to live the principles taught by the prophets. I think that's the goal, that we internalize His words, His love, and our testimony of Him and then live and share them. It was a touching expression and great encouragement to do that better at being a living example of the principles of the gospel and words of the prophets.
I'd say it was an inspirational Sunday. Grateful and HOPEful! :)
Joseph Smith taught, "The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it."
It was remarkable and uplifting to hear the sweet testimonies of each sister and the scriptures shared from all the standard works, some more explicitly about the Atonement than others, but all with that same central message of our Heavenly Father and Savior's love and sacrifice that makes possible the hope and peace and purpose and joy in our lives, the opportunity for each of us to change. I was reminded that this really is what it's all about - the scriptures are full of examples of the Lord's love and the Atonement blessing someone.
A few of my favorites (and most favorites) from today:
* 2 Nephi 25: 23, 26
* 2 Nephi 2:6-9
* 2 Nephi 9:21-23, 41
* Jacob 4:11
* Mosiah 3:17
* Mosiah 4:6-9
* Mosiah 13:28
* Mosiah 15:7-9, 18-19
* Alma 7:11-12
* Alma 34:8-10, 15-16
* Alma 36:17-20
* Alma 42:15
* Helaman 5:9
* 3 Nephi 11:14-15
* 3 Nephi 27:13-15
* Ether 3:14
* Moroni 10:32-33
* D&C 18:10-13
* D&C 19:16-19
* D&C 45:3-5
* D&C 138:2-4
* Moses 5:7
* Article of Faith 3
* Luke 22:42-44
* John 3:16-17
* John 11:25
* John 14:6
* Jacob 7:11-12: "And I said unto him: Then ye do not understand them;for they truly testify of Christ. Behold, I say unto you that none of the prophets have written, nor prophesied, save they have spoken concerning this Christ. And this is not all—it has been made manifest unto me,for I have heard and seen; and it also has been made manifest unto me by the power of the Holy Ghost;wherefore, I know if there should be no atonement made all mankind must be lost."
* Mosiah 4:2-3: "And they had viewed themselves in their own carnal state, even less than the dust of the earth. And they all cried aloud with one voice, saying: O have mercy, and apply the atoning blood of Christ that we may receive forgiveness of our sins, and our hearts may be purified; for we believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who created heaven and earth, and all things; who shall come down among the children of men. And it came to pass that after they had spoken these words the Spirit of the Lord came upon them, and they were filled with joy, having received a remission of their sins, and having peace of conscience, because of the exceeding faith which they had in Jesus Christ who should come, according to the words which king Benjamin had spoken unto them."
* Moroni 7:41: "And what is it that ye shall hope for? Behold I say unto you that ye shall have hope through the atonement of Christ and the power of his resurrection, to be raised unto life eternal, and this because of your faith in him according to the promise."
While thinking about this great, singular blessing, I was reminded of the importance of making this message and hope known to the world.
2 Nephi 2:8: "Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy,and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life according to the flesh, and taketh it again by the power of the Spirit, that he may bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, being the first that should rise."
2 Nephi 31:13: "By following your Lord and your Savior down into the water, according to his word, behold, then shall ye receive the Holy Ghost; yea, then cometh the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost; and then can ye speak with the tongue of angels, and shout praises unto the Holy One of Israel."
One other thing that matters most...after a nice day of testimony it was a blessing to spend time with family, particularly listening to my Grandma share her gratitude and testimony and love. She's stalwart in her faith and love for the Lord. I'm always inspired and uplifted when I talk to her, but tonight I was touched by her expression of gratitude for family members helping her clean up after some work on her basement. She talked about feeling overwhelmed with the work to do and grateful for those that came to work and brought hope. She also mentioned the difficulty of giving up her church magazines in the process. She had saved each one since 1952 when they moved into their house. She expressed the loss she felt at not having those inspirational words of prophets and gospel principles tangibly at her finger tips anymore, but I thought it was very sweet and inspirational to me that she said she knew where to look to find those principles - in the lives of her posterity that she had raised and taught to live the principles taught by the prophets. I think that's the goal, that we internalize His words, His love, and our testimony of Him and then live and share them. It was a touching expression and great encouragement to do that better at being a living example of the principles of the gospel and words of the prophets.
I'd say it was an inspirational Sunday. Grateful and HOPEful! :)
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)
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Prayer Journal
I have been inspired lately by the importance and power of prayer. This is something I need to work on. I need to be better and particularly more focused in my prayers.
A couple of months ago a sister mentioned in a comment at church that she used to keep a prayer journal. I thought this was a really neat idea. I've kept a gratitude journal at different points in my life and tried to be mindful of the Lord's care and blessings, but I really loved this idea of a prayer journal and how it could help me be more focused in my prayers and in learning better how to hear the Lord respond. :) ...and then having a record of His love and answers and care and His tender mercies in my life.
It's almost like our own personal prayer roll - remembering and staying focused on that which we most desire, showing the Lord our faith and then recognizing His answers. I want to try! :)
These two beautiful songs have also encouraged me to listen for His voice:
A couple of months ago a sister mentioned in a comment at church that she used to keep a prayer journal. I thought this was a really neat idea. I've kept a gratitude journal at different points in my life and tried to be mindful of the Lord's care and blessings, but I really loved this idea of a prayer journal and how it could help me be more focused in my prayers and in learning better how to hear the Lord respond. :) ...and then having a record of His love and answers and care and His tender mercies in my life.
It's almost like our own personal prayer roll - remembering and staying focused on that which we most desire, showing the Lord our faith and then recognizing His answers. I want to try! :)
These two beautiful songs have also encouraged me to listen for His voice:
- If I Listen With My Heart by Sally DeFord
- The Master's Voice by Sally DeFord
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Sunday in Quotes
Elder Marvin J. Ashton, April 1992:
"Honesty is more than not lying. It is truth telling, truth speaking, truth living, and truth loving."
"Our Father in Heaven has invited you to express your needs, hopes, and desires unto Him. That should not be done in a spirit of negotiation, but rather as a willingness to obey His will no matter what direction that takes. His invitation, “Ask, and ye shall receive” (3 Ne. 27:29) does not assure that you will get what you want. It does guarantee that, if worthy, you will get what you need, as judged by a Father that loves you perfectly, who wants your eternal happiness even more than do you.
"I testify that when the Lord closes one important door in your life, He shows His continuing love and compassion by opening many other compensating doors through your exercise of faith. He will place in your path packets of spiritual sunlight to brighten your way. They often come after the trial has been the greatest, as evidence of the compassion and love of an all-knowing Father. They point the way to greater happiness, more understanding, and strengthen your determination to accept and be obedient to His will."
"Be one who nurtures and who builds. Be one who has an understanding and a forgiving heart, who looks for the best in people. Leave people better than you found them. Be fair with your competitors, whether in business, athletics, or elsewhere....Lend a hand to those who are frightened, lonely, or burdened. If we could look into each other’s hearts and understand the unique challenges each of us faces, I think we would treat each other much more gently, with more love, patience, tolerance, and care."
"I testify that when the Lord closes one important door in your life, He shows His continuing love and compassion by opening many other compensating doors through your exercise of faith. He will place in your path packets of spiritual sunlight to brighten your way. They often come after the trial has been the greatest, as evidence of the compassion and love of an all-knowing Father. They point the way to greater happiness, more understanding, and strengthen your determination to accept and be obedient to His will."
"The Hope and Deliverer promised of old, for whom we have waited ere long. Oh, come and redeem us from slavery's yoke, and deliver thy people home. And now in whose presences our souls take delight. On whom in affliction we call. Our comfort by day, our song in the night. Our Hope, our Deliverer, our All. Hosanna...our Savior will come. O, Israel, and blessed He'll ever be called. Hosanna...sing praises to God. Our Hope, our Deliverer, our All. Oh hear, thou dear Savior our call."
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Go Forth With Faith
It was an inspiring day at church! I love the gospel! I love the Lord! I'm grateful for the hope, the direction, the peace the gospel of Jesus Christ brings....to me, to all of us. Because of Him we have faith, hope, love. :) There is much in the world that could be very discouraging and alarming and even cause fear, but God wants us to be happy, to have joy, to have faith in Him and His plan. That brings joy!! :) Everlasting joy.
President Ezra Taft Benson taught the importance of Living Joyfully in Troubled Times. What an inspired, applicable topic for us collectively and individually! :) It made me happy be reminded of the importance of choosing happiness and having faith. Our Heavenly Father has a plan. He is in charge. He loves us! There are challenges, but we can have faith and hope and joy! Here are a few quotes I loved:
"President Benson was a “careful watcher of events, [who] maintains a certain buoyancy and cheerfulness we would do well to watch. Such buoyancy comes not from ignoring enveloping events, but from noticing these and yet looking beyond them to promises having to do with how the kingdom will finally prevail.”"
"Our Heavenly Father can accomplish miracles through each of us if we will but place our confidence and trust in Him....Faith gives us vision of what may happen, hope for the future, and optimism in our present tasks. Where faith is, we do not doubt the ultimate success of the work."
"Of all people, we as Latter-day Saints should be the most optimistic and the least pessimistic. For while we know that “peace shall be taken from the earth, and the devil shall have power over his own dominion,” we are also assured that “the Lord shall have power over his saints, and shall reign in their midst.” (D&C 1:35–36.)"
"With the assurance that the Church shall remain intact with God directing it through the troubled times ahead, it then becomes our individual responsibility to see that each of us remains faithful to the Church and its teachings."
"We have no cause to really worry. Live the gospel, keep the commandments. Attend to your prayers night and morning in your home. Maintain the standards of the Church. Try and live calmly and cheerfully. … Happiness must be earned from day to day. But it is worth the effort."
"Be cheerful in all that you do. Live joyfully. Live happily. Live enthusiastically, knowing that God does not dwell in gloom and melancholy, but in light and love."
"Our Heavenly Father wants us to be happy. He expects us to be happy. But there is no happiness in a letting down of standards. There is no happiness when you fail to live according to your convictions, according to that which you know to be right."
"Do we realize that happiness here and now consists in freely, lovingly, joyfully acknowledging God’s will for us—and doing it in all ways and all affairs big and small? To live perfectly is to live happily. To live happily is to grow in spiritual strength toward perfection. Every action performed in accord with God’s will is part of that growth. Let us not partition our lives. Let us unify our lives, being contemptuous of fictitious honors and glories that do not come with God’s approval. Let us remember that the real source of our strength and happiness is beyond the reach of men and circumstances."
""Look unto me in every thought,” said Jesus. (D&C 6:36.)"
Last week Elder Holland taught seminary and institute teachers these same things in this talk Be Not Afraid, Only Believe. I loved this and think it's important that we stand up for our faith and what we believe!
Relatedly, I LOVE the song "Go Forth with Faith!" Every word of this song brings joy and encourages me in my testimony of the Savior and desire to share it. I believe that's the ultimate goal of living joyfully in trying times - to share our faith and our joy.
President Ezra Taft Benson taught the importance of Living Joyfully in Troubled Times. What an inspired, applicable topic for us collectively and individually! :) It made me happy be reminded of the importance of choosing happiness and having faith. Our Heavenly Father has a plan. He is in charge. He loves us! There are challenges, but we can have faith and hope and joy! Here are a few quotes I loved:
"President Benson was a “careful watcher of events, [who] maintains a certain buoyancy and cheerfulness we would do well to watch. Such buoyancy comes not from ignoring enveloping events, but from noticing these and yet looking beyond them to promises having to do with how the kingdom will finally prevail.”"
"Our Heavenly Father can accomplish miracles through each of us if we will but place our confidence and trust in Him....Faith gives us vision of what may happen, hope for the future, and optimism in our present tasks. Where faith is, we do not doubt the ultimate success of the work."
"Of all people, we as Latter-day Saints should be the most optimistic and the least pessimistic. For while we know that “peace shall be taken from the earth, and the devil shall have power over his own dominion,” we are also assured that “the Lord shall have power over his saints, and shall reign in their midst.” (D&C 1:35–36.)"
"With the assurance that the Church shall remain intact with God directing it through the troubled times ahead, it then becomes our individual responsibility to see that each of us remains faithful to the Church and its teachings."
"We have no cause to really worry. Live the gospel, keep the commandments. Attend to your prayers night and morning in your home. Maintain the standards of the Church. Try and live calmly and cheerfully. … Happiness must be earned from day to day. But it is worth the effort."
"Be cheerful in all that you do. Live joyfully. Live happily. Live enthusiastically, knowing that God does not dwell in gloom and melancholy, but in light and love."
"Our Heavenly Father wants us to be happy. He expects us to be happy. But there is no happiness in a letting down of standards. There is no happiness when you fail to live according to your convictions, according to that which you know to be right."
"Do we realize that happiness here and now consists in freely, lovingly, joyfully acknowledging God’s will for us—and doing it in all ways and all affairs big and small? To live perfectly is to live happily. To live happily is to grow in spiritual strength toward perfection. Every action performed in accord with God’s will is part of that growth. Let us not partition our lives. Let us unify our lives, being contemptuous of fictitious honors and glories that do not come with God’s approval. Let us remember that the real source of our strength and happiness is beyond the reach of men and circumstances."
""Look unto me in every thought,” said Jesus. (D&C 6:36.)"
Last week Elder Holland taught seminary and institute teachers these same things in this talk Be Not Afraid, Only Believe. I loved this and think it's important that we stand up for our faith and what we believe!
Relatedly, I LOVE the song "Go Forth with Faith!" Every word of this song brings joy and encourages me in my testimony of the Savior and desire to share it. I believe that's the ultimate goal of living joyfully in trying times - to share our faith and our joy.
Go Forth with Faith
Go forth with faith to tell the world Of Jesus Christ, the Lord.
Bear witness he is God's own Son; Proclaim his wondrous word.
Go forth with hope and courage strong To spread the word abroad
That people of all nations Are children of our God.
Go forth with faith to tell the world Of Jesus Christ, the Lord.
Bear witness he is God's own Son; Proclaim his wondrous word.
Go forth with hope and courage strong To spread the word abroad
That people of all nations Are children of our God.
Go forth with love to tell the world The joy of families--
That we may be with those we love Thru all eternity.
Go forth to serve and do your best With no thought of reward;
Then you shall know the boundless joy Of serving Christ, the Lord.
That we may be with those we love Thru all eternity.
Go forth to serve and do your best With no thought of reward;
Then you shall know the boundless joy Of serving Christ, the Lord.
Go forth with pow'r to tell the world The gospel is restored,
That all may gain eternal life Thru Jesus Christ, the Lord.
Go forth to preach his glorious truths Of peace, of joy, and love,
That all who heed his holy word May praise the Lord above.
And thinking about faith and joy, here is great article I read recently about The Secret Ingredient to Great Relationships - FAITH. :) Go forth with faith!
That all may gain eternal life Thru Jesus Christ, the Lord.
Go forth to preach his glorious truths Of peace, of joy, and love,
That all who heed his holy word May praise the Lord above.
And thinking about faith and joy, here is great article I read recently about The Secret Ingredient to Great Relationships - FAITH. :) Go forth with faith!
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Love is...
...many things...today it is sleep, reading, books, scriptures, running, sunshine, family history, inspiration, service, kindness, temples, family, grandmas, flowers, cookies, music, friends...
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Happy Valentine's Day! :)
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Happy Valentine's Day! :)
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