Amazing Grace

I'l begin by suggesting that if you haven't seen the movie Amazing Grace, you should see it. If you're already familiar with how it came about, you've probably felt the power of the words. If you're not familiar, let me give you a brief background.

William Wilberforce was THE leading advocate for the abolishment of the slave trade in Great Britain. He fought insurmountable odds to win his cause, yet he pursued the course. He struggled for years with his personal health problems, yet he pressed on.

He met a preacher/pastor (John Newton) who confessed that in his earlier life he was a slave trader. After a violent storm, John underwent a spiritual conversion and became a clergyman. John saw the horror and abomination first hand and now understood the gravity of his own crimes against humanity and against God. John wrote Amazing Grace as a reflection of his own life and experiences in hopes that he would inspire others and partake of God's grace.

William, inspired by the moving hymn and his discussion with John, decided not to give up and pursued his mission until the slave trade was FINALLY abolished in Great Britain.  Just a few short years after the measures passed in parliament (because of William), he passed away due to his life long health battle.

With that background, I invite us to carefully ponder the words of this inspired hymn:

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

When we've been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.

Please enjoy two beautiful renditions of Amazing Grace:

Time: A Precious Commodity!

I recently saw this video in the adult session of Stake Conference. What a great reminder to focus on "what matters most" in our lives. We don't know how long this short, temporal probation will last for each of us individually or those who surround us.

Let us not waste this precious TIME that we've been allocated. It's fleeting, it passes by us like a dream, and what we choose to do with our TIME will determine the legacy we leave behind for future generations.

O Remember, Remember

One of the young men in our ward taught the lesson today and did a great job. During his lesson, he showed this short clip of President Eyring. As I watched, I was prompted to do something that I've done before, but then subsequently stopped doing.  The times when I've done this have been very powerful, which is why I'm excited to start again.

Please watch the video and then I'll explain:

President Eyring kept a journal everyday, sometimes it only meant a line or two. During this video, what I specifically felt prompted to do was to keep a daily journal and record just one or two lines about something our children have done that day. In addition, I plan to record some way in which I've seen the Lord's hand in my life that day.

When we put pen to paper, something powerful happens. The Spirit can teach us in a unique and unforgettable way when we begin writing. It starts by picking up the pen.

To make this fun, I asked a couple of my children if they would like to join me and see if we could do this everyday for a month. Both of them jumped at the challenge....now we need to come up with a fun reward::)

I hope by putting this on the blog it has spurred in someone else the desire to record the memories of their children, lest they be forgotten. On the same note, as we record the ways in which we've seen the Lord's hand, we'll realize how involved he is in our lives (if we allow him in). There can be great value and power in doing this. How many times have we read something from our past that we forgot about?

I invite anyone who might read this to join our family in the "one month challenge".

The Homeless and Condemnation

I'm using this post to combine two posts into one:

1. Several months ago for a family home evening activity we created "homeless bags". We put in a few goodies as well as a written thought and kind word. The idea was to give these to the homeless people when we randomly encountered them on our way. We probably made 15 bags, but were only able to give away a few (there just aren't that many people openly homeless in Heber and Orem). So, we decided to take a trip to Salt Lake and give away the rest of the bags. It was a special experience.

As a family, we prayed for direction and guidance. Then, we approached different people near the homeless shelter. Part of the deal was to learn their name, where they were from, and any other interesting information. We wanted it to be more than just giving, we wanted our children to see that these are real people.

It was very interesting and humbling for me personally to see these people who have come from every type of background and walk of life. It also reminds me of the scripture in Hebrews 13:2, "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unaware."

This experience was another reminder to me that there are limitless opportunities to lift and serve.

2. While reading Remembering the Covenant, I came across a great passage. Denver Snuffer says, "Lamenting about the decay all around you will not help you draw closer to him. If you detect that decay, then your eyes have been opened, and you should do something about it in your own life. Condemning the failure of others has not advanced a single soul in history. The gospel of Jesus Christ consists in gathering light and truth, which is not accomplished by focusing on the failings of others."

Sometimes I'm guilty of criticism, however, I try to make a conscious effort to avoid this destructive habit. I read and hear about people who are always on the lookout to criticize others or the church organization, whether it's a subtle criticism or an outright critique. We live in an age where it seems natural to be critical. I'd like to read some stories or blog posts of something uplifting...miracles, inspiration, ways in which a person was moved by the spirit to help another, etc. 

The New Testament and 3 Nephi are great examples: The Lord warns and cautions, but he also heals, teaches wonderful truths, and uplifts the reader with great lessons and parables. His is a balanced form of teaching which spreads across the entire spectrum of wonderful gospel truths. 

As always, we can learn from the Master.

Isn't this interesting?

As I was reading in the Book of Mormon, I found a great life lesson. As Alma was preparing to go teach the Zoramites, he lists the people whom he chose to accompany him: Zeezrom, Amulek, Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and his two sons Shiblon and Corianton.

Alma has obviously developed a deep and rich relationship with each one of these people. What's interesting is to think about how those strong relationships were forged. In several cases, these would have been people who were his polar opposites:

Zeezrom: Was a bitter enemy to Alma and Amulek in the city of Ammonihah. Zeezrom was one of the principal prosecutor's attempting to destroy Alma. Yet, he began to believe and then left that city for the neighboring city of Melek where he lay with a fever until he was later healed by Alma.

Amulek: Met Alma in the city of Ammonihah after he (Alma) had fasted and prayed many days. Was told in a vision that he would meet Alma. After laboring together, it was apparent that Amulek was struggling with the loss of his family and Alma took him to his home in Zarahemla to minister to him. What a deep relationship they must have forged together!

Ammon and his brothers: When they were young teenagers, they went about trying to destroy the church. They must have been involved in all kinds of wicked activities together, until one day an angel appeared to them and altered their course forever. After laying for several days, Alma awoke a converted and changed man. These men who once tried to destroy the church, now spent their time and labor correcting the damage they had caused.

Isn't it interesting how life takes us down a path of twists and turns? We should learn to love those around us and treat others with respect and kindness (and follow the spirit). We never know who will end up impacting our life in a significant way. Maybe a person who we consider to be our enemy now, will one day be our strongest ally and friend (Zeezrom).

Why Obey the Law?

We can learn a great lesson from the Lamanites. After the different factions of the Lamanites were converted and they joined into one body, they said this about the Law of Moses (Alma 25:16):

"Now they did not suppose that salvation came by the law of Moses; but the law of Moses did serve to strengthen their faith in Christ; and thus they did retain a hope through faith, unto eternal salvation."

It illustrates an important doctrine. Why do we keep the laws and commandments? The laws and commandments in and of themselves won't save us. However, just as the law of Moses was essential to the Lamanites, our current laws and commandments are essential to us. Just as it was 2000 years ago, our laws and ordinances are designed to point us towards Christ. The Lamanites kept the law and it "strengthened their faith in Christ." If we look carefully, each law should strengthen our faith in Christ and point us towards him:

Law of Chastity - Keeps us clean from sin that destroys families and marriages. Will free our mind to dwell on the things of God rather than the lustful thoughts of the world. When virtue garnishes our thoughts unceasingly, then shall our confidence wax strong in his presence.

The Word of Wisdom - Will free our mind and body from destructive addictions. I have a good friend who's a dentist and returned missionary. He's currently spending 90 days in Florida at a rehabilitation clinic because of an addiction. He's a good man, but this addiction was threatening to destroy him. This law allows us to maintain a clear mind and intellect which then allows the Spirit to work upon us.

Tithing and other donations - Teaches us to always put the Lord first. Is just the beginning when discussing the law of Sacrifice. This puts us in a position to know that we're putting the Lord above money, although this is only the beginning.

The Sacrament - We often underestimate this one. At the end of the Sacrament prayer the promise is that we can have his Spirit to be with us always. That was the primary piece of advice Joseph gave to Brigham and others when he visited them from beyond the veil, "tell the saints to get the Spirit."

These are just a few examples of how the law and commandments point us towards Christ. One more interesting question, is it possible to do all these things and still have Christ far from the thoughts and intents of our hearts? In my opinion, the answer to this question is an obvious YES.

So, the reason for this entry is to remind us that we keep the law to point our hearts and minds to Christ. HOWEVER, in addition to keeping the law, we need to become like Him. Our thoughts and actions need to be aligned with his thoughts and actions. The Lamanites kept the law, but they understood that it ultimately came down to their faith in Christ and that the law was designed to strengthen that faith and open the pathway to personal communication to heaven.

I invite us all to not make the laws and commandments a checklist, but rather, allow them to strengthen our faith in Christ and help us develop charity towards all men and especially towards the household of faith.

What is Love?

It's always interesting to read various blog posts and forums to see the different opinions.  I recently read a comment discussing love and it's not the first time I've seen this type of comment. The comment more or less said, "Some people say is all I have to do is learn to "love", it's all about "love" and I disagree."

I don't want to mince words and get caught up in semantics, I see where this person is probably coming from.

From my experience, I've glimpsed beyond the veil enough to know that everything there IS love. It's indescribable, that type of love doesn't exist on earth (I've never experienced it in marriage or with my children, although I love them immensely). When we get to those realms, maybe we'll get used to it somehow, but love is in and through all things, it's consuming, it's overwhelming, I would give all that I possess and am to experience that type of love, even periodically. No language is adequate to describe it. That is what heaven is about, LOVE!

So, let me share my answer to this question...What is love?

It IS all about love.
- Think about it, if we're filled with the pure love of Christ, is there any question about whether chastity is an issue?
- If we're filled with love, is there any question about whether or not we'll sacrifice/consecrate our time and talents?
- If we're filled with love, is there any question about how we'll treat our bodies, treat others, etc?
- If we're filled with love, is there any question about whether to attend church and take the sacrament, worship in the temple, etc.?

If we're filled with love, then our actions will follow and become an afterthought. It's like the night follows day. In fact, I can't think of a single commandment that isn't designed to turn our hearts to Christ in an effort to increase our love.

If we were capable, would there really be a necessity of further commandments if we REALLY lived the two great commandments (certainly there would still be covenants and ordinances, I get it)?

Our great mission is to put off the natural man. To become like Christ. To take upon us his name. To seek his embrace and treat others as he would treat them. It really is all about love, Christ was the ultimate example of love. There is no guile or selfishness in him. Time after time he set aside his owns wants to serve others.

It's easy to write about in a blog, it's a totally different issue to really APPLY this idea to our lives. I invite us all to focus on loving others...our family, those who have wronged us in some way, strangers, and anyone else we come in contact with. Let us listen, serve, and find a way to love those whom we're put in contact with during our mortal probation!

As If a Dream...

We just returned from a wonderful family reunion. Many times throughout my life I've been awakened to our fragile state and I'm very conscious of how quickly time will pass us by. I saw pictures of great-great grandparents, many of whom passed away decades ago.

Once again I realized how precious our time on earth really is. Sometimes it's easy to get caught up in the small or trivial things. Some of those things might APPEAR to be important, but they'll be a distant memory once we cross the veil.

What are you and I doing with the time we have left on earth?

How can we make better use of our time?

Is our time spent on things of eternal significance?

Jacob said something very similar, "I have written according to the best of my knowledge, by saying that the time passed away with us, and also our lives passed away like as it were unto us a dream" (Jacob 7:26)

Years ago my grandma appeared to my mother and told her that this life will pass by so quickly and that it would only be a short time before we're together again.

As I renew my efforts to serve the Lord and be a righteous husband and father, I hope he'll be pleased with my efforts. I hope that my legacy to my children is one of faith, service, and love. We never know when it might be our last minute or day, so let's make the best of it while we have it!

On the Lighter Side...

My brother shared this with me today. I thought it was too funny and certainly worth sharing. Hopefully you have a sense of humor and can enjoy a nice laugh...I'm sure they would do the same if they watched the video themselves. 

Enjoy!

If the Savior Stood Beside Me

My 11 year old son and I were driving to his soccer practice this morning and he asked me what my favorite primary song was. I responded and then asked him about his favorite. He said, "If the Savior Stood Beside Me". He went on to explain that this was his favorite because it made him think about his thoughts and actions. He would ask himself, "Is this something I would do if the Savior really was beside me?" 

I was proud of him for thinking about the words, for asking important questions, and being willing to talk about it and share his feelings. He caused me to think and realize how right he was. 

Would we do many of the things we do if the Savior really was beside us?

I've attached two separate videos of his favorite hymn. Both videos are wonderful. Also, the words to the song are listed below. As you read them, I invite you to ponder the questions asked in this powerful primary hymn:

1. If the Savior stood beside me,
would I do the things I do?
Would I think of His commandments,
and try harder to be true?
Would I follow His example?
Would I live more righteously
if I could see the Savior standing nigh,
watching over me?

2. If the Savior stood beside me,
would I say the things I say?
Would my words be true and kind
if He was never far away?
Would I try to share the gospel?
Would I speak more rev’rently
if I could see the Savior standing nigh,
watching over me?

3. He is always near me,
though I do not see Him there,
And because He loves me dearly,
I am in His watchful care.
So I’ll be the kind of person
that I know I’d like to be
if I could see the Savior standing nigh,
watching over me.

A Great Story: The Room

We had two missionaries departing this week for the MTC. During their talks on Sunday, one of them shared this poem called "The Room". I thought it was a powerful story and decided to share it here.

ORIGINATION OF THE STORY:
Summary of eRumor:  
This long email is in two parts.  The first part describes 17-year-old-Brian Moore, a student who was a part of a group of Christian athletes.  In preparation for leading a discussion at one of the meetings, he wrote an essay that he titled "The Room."  Two months later, Brian was dead.  He had a traffic accident, which he survived, but was electrocuted when he stepped on some downed power lines.  The remainder of the first part of the email talks about what a quality guy Brian was and how much it meant to have "The Room" as a part of his legacy.   The second part of the email is the essay itself, a very moving description of a dream in which he experiences a sobering review of his life and a powerful encounter with Jesus Christ.

 The Truth:
"The Room" was actually written by speaker and author Joshua Harris and is in his book "I Kissed Dating Goodbye."  He says it was something that he put on paper as the result of a dream he had while in Puerto Rico for the 1995 Billy Graham Crusade and published in his magazine the same year.  Interestingly, Brian Moore was also real.  He did attend the high school described in the eRumor and lost his life as the result of a traffic accident shortly after having presented "The Room" for the meeting of Christian athletes.  His friends and family believed that he had written it and the story about Brian was passed along to others sincerely.  Joshua Harris told TruthOrFiction.com that he appreciates people getting the facts straight about the origins of "The Room" but is more concerned that people hear the message of the story than knowing who actually wrote it.

"THE ROOM":
In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in the room.
There were no distinguishing features save for the one wall covered with
small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list
titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which
stretched from floor to ceiling and right to left as far as the eye could
see, had very different headings.

As I walked up to the wall of files,the first to catch my attention was one
that read, "People I Have Liked." I opened it and began flipping through the
cards. I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names
written on each one. And then, without being told, I knew exactly where I
was.

This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my
entire life. The actions of my every moment, big and small, were written in
a detail my memory couldn't match. A sense of wonder and curiosity, mixed
with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and
exploring their content. Some brought joy and sweet memories, others a sense
of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if
anyone was watching.

A file named "Friends" was next to one marked "Friends I have betrayed". The
titles ranged from common, everyday things to the not-so-common-"Books I
Have Read", "Lies I Have Told", "Comfort I Have Given", "Jokes I Have
Laughed At". Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: "Things I Have
Yelled At My Brothers and Sisters." Others I couldn't laugh at: "Things I
Have Done in Anger", "Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents".
I never ceased to be surprised by the contents. Often there were many more
cards than I expected. Sometimes less than I had hoped.

The sheer volume of the life I had lived overwhelmed me. Could it be
possible that I had time in my 17 years to write each of these thousands or
millions of cards? But each card confirmed the truth. Each card was written
in my own handwriting. Each card was signed with my signature. When I pulled
out the file marked "Songs I Have Listened To", I realized the files grew to
contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly, and yet after two or
three yards, I hadn't found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so
much by the quality of music, but more by the vast amount of time I knew
that file represented. When I came to the file marked "Lustful

Thoughts"; I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an
inch, not willing to test its size, and drew out a card. I shuddered at its
detailed content. I felt sick to think such a moment had been recorded.

A feeling of humiliation and anger ran through my body. One thought
dominated my mind: "No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see
this room! I have to destroy them!" In an insane frenzy, I yanked the file
out. Its size didn't matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards. But
as I took the file at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could
not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only
to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it. Defeated and utterly
helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the
wall, I let out a long, self-pitying sigh.

That was when I saw it. The file bore "People I Have Shared the Gospel
With". The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused. I
pulled on its handle and a small box not more than 3 inches long fell into
my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand. And then the
tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that the hurt started in my
stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of
shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves
swirled in my tear-filled eyes. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I
must lock it up and hide the key.

Then as I looked up through my tears, I saw Him enter the room. No, please
not Him. Not here. Anyone but Jesus. I watched helplessly as He began to
open the files and read the cards. I couldn't bear to watch His response.
The few times I looked at His face I saw such sadness that it tore at my
heart. He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes. Why did he have to
read every one?

Finally, He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me
with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn't anger me. I dropped
my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked
over and put his arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He
didn't say a word. He just cried with me.

Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of
the room, He took out a file, and, one by one began to sign His name over
mine on each card. "No!" I shouted, rushing to Him. All I could find to say
was "No, no", as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn't be on these
cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, so alive. The name
of Jesus covered mine. It was written in blood.

He gently took the card back. He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the
cards. I don't think I'll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the
next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my
side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, "It is finished." I stood
up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on the door. There were

still cards to be written.

World Wide Leadership Conference

I attended the Stake Center where I was able to watch the Worldwide Leadership Training (which was really for everyone). In my opinion, the fireside was fabulous and I highly recommend that everyone take two hours to watch it. 

It can be viewed on lds.org or you can click this link: http://bcove.me/appf66hg

There are several "take-away's":

1. What can I do to be a more effective missionary in sharing the gospel with those around me?

2. What can my wife and I do to prepare our children to be missionaries who are effective and teach by the power of the spirit?

3. We already have a family mission plan, but one thing I've learned from experience is that when we're asking the Lord for missionary opportunities, they will come. How often are we praying for missionary opportunities...daily, weekly, monthly???

I loved the videos they used during the fireside and was inspired by several comments made. No matter where we labor, we don't need a "calling" to spread the gospel. In fact, it's our COMMISSION that we each received when we were baptized.

I love the gospel and this great work!

A Heavenly Gift to a Child

See if you can watch this video and keep your eyes dry...stinking onions!

I'm reminded of what the Savior said to the Nephites, "And it came to pass that he commanded that their little children should be brought." (3 Nephi 17:11)

These are the stories I love hearing about...that which is most important and will impact a young girl and family forever!

Temple Names

This is a short and simple post. Yesterday morning we were in the Provo Temple waiting for our session to begin. I noticed the man next to me who took out a pen and wrote down the information for the name he had that day (the name was provided by the temple).

I don't know why he wrote the name, but it sparked a couple of ideas in my own mind:
1. What if we were to take a few minutes after the temple to research the name of the person who we just did the work for? Maybe we wouldn't find anything, but what if we were able to actually learn who the person was? Wouldn't that make the experience more personal?

2. I don't know if this idea would really be worth it, but I wonder if it would be interesting to keep the names, birthplace, and birth date on an excel spreadsheet? Wouldn't that be interesting to go back after 10 years and look at all the different names, dates, and locations where they lived?

I wanted to post that observation, it was interesting and I hadn't ever thought about doing something like that before.

The Mountains...A Sacred Place.

I was at lunch with a good friend several months ago and he rhetorically asked, "Where is your sacred grove?" I've actually thought a lot about that question.

With that question in the background, it's always been refreshing and inspiring to retreat to the mountains, especially on a mild Spring or Fall day - both seasons have their distinct beauty.

There is something special about being out in nature and the spiritual closeness that seems to happen there, it becomes a type of temple. Is it any wonder that the word "mountain" is often referred to or compared to a temple...e.g. "get ye up to the mountain of the Lord."? Is it any wonder that some of the most memorable experiences for young men or young women in the church are during their trips into nature?

Reflect on those who were ministered to by Christ after retreating to the mountains: Nephi, Abraham, Moses, Enos, Ether, Joseph Smith, and so on.

I've always loved the words of Nephi, "I, Nephi, did go into the mount oft, and did oft pray unto the Lord, wherefore the Lord showed unto me great things."

Today I rode up on the mountain with my 4 wheeler and took these two pictures with my phone. It takes about 20 minutes to get to this area from our house. It's serene, peaceful, humans rarely leave their mark there, and it's quiet. The only noise are the insects, birds, and wind blowing across the ridge. It really does feel like a temple and has become a "sacred grove" in certain ways.

I would encourage anyone who wants a special experience to take some time and go into the mountains (or some place of nature if there aren't mountains nearby). There is a special closeness when we ponder and pray in the mountains. Remember, this is where many of the ancients had the veil parted.

P.S. I added a picture from two days ago that I took in our backyard. Spring is such a beautiful time of year...rebirth and renewal!

A Pre-Requisite to Progress

King Benjamin goes on to teach his listener's something critical to their spiritual progression. As the people listened, "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." (Mosiah 4:2)

Viewing themselves in their own carnal state, less than the dust of the earth, was a significant step in the mental and spiritual transformation for these people who were already disciples, at least to a certain degree (because they at least made the effort to come up and pitch their tents towards the temple).

After the people had spoken those words, the Spirit of the Lord came upon them and they were "filled with joy and had a peace of conscience." (Mosiah 4:3)

King Benjamin then taught that if we continue to view ourselves in our own carnal state and look to the Lord in all things then (Mosiah 4:10-14):
- We'll no longer have a mind to injure one another.
- We'll be filled with the love of God.
- We'll retain a remission of our sins.
- We'll grow in the knowledge of the glory of him who created us.
- We won't suffer our children to go hungry or quarrel one with another.

If you've read my posts, you'll know that I always apply these teaching to myself and use these teachings as an opportunity to ask introspective questions. I pose this question:

- Do we REALLY see ourselves in our own carnal state?
If not, what actions can we take to see ourselves in that true state?

For the people who listened to King Benjamin, this was the beginning of a wonderful spiritual manifestation and transformation for them. This is what can really help us draw near to God and bring about the same experience for us today - when we realize that without him and the Atonement, we really are nothing.

The law and the Atonement

King Benjamin taught something so applicable and important to his people.  What he was teaching over 2000 years ago, applies to us today and is vital to understand if we expect to be fully converted to the Lord.

In Mosiah 3:15, he teaches something the Pharisees never grasped, "Many signs, and wonders, and types, and shadows showed he unto them, concerning his coming; also the holy prophets spake unto them concerning his coming; and yet they hardened their hearts, and understood not that the law of Moses availeth nothing except it were through the atonement of his blood."

A few years later, Abinadi asked the Priests of Noah a pertinent question, "Does salvation come by the law of Moses?" (Mosiah 12:31)  

Abinadi went on to answer his own question saying, "There was a law given them, yea, a law of performances and of ordinances, a law which they were to observe strictly from day to day, to keep them in remembrance of our God and their duty towards him. They did not all understand the law; for they understood not that there could be no man saved except it were through the redemption of God." (Mosiah 13:30-32).

Both King Benjamin and Abinadi taught that although they kept the law to be obedient to the commandments of the Lord, it was the atonement of the Lord that brings redemption.

I pose a couple of introspective questions: 

1. Do the current commandments and ordinances we live and obey have the power to save (sacrament, temple ordinances, etc.)?

2. Do we obey the law simply to obey the law?

These are great questions that I ask myself personally. I would suggest that part of the answer is that we as a people tend to hearden our hearts and rely on the ordinances and commandments as the answer. Sometimes I (we) fail to remember that those laws and ordinances are there to point our hearts to Christ.

What he really wants is my (our) heart!  Rather than following a checklist of what I'm doing and not doing, he simply wants a loving, charitable, and willing heart from me as an individual.

If I (we) am fully converted to him, then living each of these commandments becomes a simple byproduct of my fidelity, love and obedience to him. 

This is what King Benjamin was teaching his people. Salvation comes through the atonement and it is through the atonement we are saved. We keep the laws because we're obedient, but it's a constant search of how we can give our heart to the Lord and be filled with his love - his love roots out all evil and has the power to save!

What Is a Prophet?

First, I sustain the First Presidency and member of the Twelve as Prophets, Seers, and Revelators. When I sustain them, I believe that they hold the keys of the administration of the church and have a heavy burden to carry. They have a great responsibility in managing the affairs of the church in a very secular world.

With that context regarding administration, I ask the question: What is a prophet? Is it exclusive to a calling?

According to John the Beloved, "The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy". According to Elder McConkie, "Every person who receives revelation so that he knows, independent of any other source, of the divine Sonship of the Savior, has, by definition and in the very nature of things, the spirit of prophecy and is a prophet."

In Numbers 11:29 it states "Would God that all the Lord's people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit upon them!"

In this sense, becoming a prophet wouldn't authorize us to organize a Stake or set up a Mission. However, it is a requisite for exaltation for each of us to become a prophet. In other words, to know that Jesus is the Christ...to know that independent of any other source and thereby become a prophet in bearing witness of him and his mission.

How glorious it would be if we as a people were prophets in the sense that we could bear a witness of his reality, testify of his mission, and be filled with the spirit of prophecy!

Receive the Holy Ghost

I'll cite Nephi's words in the beginning of 2 Nephi 32.

"Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost" and at the same time we're told that once we receive the Holy Ghost "ye could speak with the tongue of angels." In other words, what allows an angel to speak with such power and conviction are when they speak the words of Christ and they are carried to the listener by the "power of the Holy Ghost."

If man has the potential to speak with the tongue of angels (in other words, by the same power) then we have to acquire that power by "feasting upon the words of Christ that will tell us all things what we should do." When we feast upon the words of Christ, we'll find individual instruction and direction to "bring us into the light." To summarize the words of Nephi, "this is the doctrine of Christ."

How easily is that spirit offended? How easily will he depart from us and we lose that power? If we pray, feast upon the words of Christ, and follow the individual instruction we receive, then we can have the Holy Ghost as a guide and companion and speak with the tongue of angels.

Doubt - An effective tool of the Adversary

A very effective tool of the adversary is doubt. He tried to use that tactic on Christ multiple times.

Matthew 4 - Multiple times Lucifer tempts the Savior and says "IF  thou be the Son of God..." He tried to cast doubt into the Son of God.

Luke 23:37-40 (JST): The adversary, acting through soldiers and the malefactor who was crucified with Christ, again tried to instil doubt into the Savior during those crushing final moments on the cross when they said, "IF thou be the Christ, save thyself."

There are many ways he can try to instil doubt into us as individuals. These might be a few examples:

- You're not worthy to serve in this calling.

- Do you think a perfect Heavenly Father will really answer your prayers, after all you've done?

- You shouldn't be associating with these people, they're so much better than you, you could never measure up to them.

- Others may be noble and great and may see and hear wonderful things, but you can't attain that, it's out of your reach.

- You didn't really confess that sin, you're not forgiven. The Lord can forgive others, but you can't be forgiven of that. Your life has been to dark.

and so on...

The message of the gospel is the opposite of doubt and fear.  In 3 Nephi 9:14, the voice of the Lord says, "If ye will come unto me ye shall have eternal life. Behold, mine arm of mercy is extended towards you and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me."

The invitation to come is extended to all, no matter how dark the past or seemingly real the doubt may be, Christ has carried that burden and he overcame. Some of the vilest sinners have turned and become the greatest missionaries: Paul, Alma, Ammon, and so on.

When we look to Christ, there should be no room for doubt in our mind. I invite you and I to cast away any misgivings or doubt and turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart. When we do, we shall conquer the enemy of all righteousness and not give into his doubt filled temptations!

You Never Know When Someone is Watching or Listening

I'm at a Global Leadership conference in Turkey. I was talking with an influential man from Texas and he asked if I was Mormon, I responded, "yes".

He then complimented me and told me the following story. He said, "I was at a restaurant one day and noticed a group of clean cut young men, they were all wearing suits. I knew they were Mormon missionaries.  This seemed a little out of the ordinary so I decided to sit nearby and listen to what they were saying. I was so impressed by their conversation. They were upbeat, positive and talking about how to serve others. I was amazed that young men would have that type of conversation!"

He couldn't say enough positive things about "the Mormons".

I'm grateful that those missionaries decided to be positive and uplifting that day. They could just as easily complained about their area, an investigator, or anything else. They never knew that someone was listening in on their conversation. Those missionaries will never know the influence they had on this man as a result of that conversation.

How many of our actions, conversations, and ideas are actually observed...when we think nobody is watching or listening?

This is a good reminder to be ever vigilant and try to adopt the lifestyle of the Savior at all times.  We may never realize when our word or action makes the difference in the life of someone else, for good or for bad!

Book Suggestion

I don't do this often, but I'd like to recommend a book which was recently recommended to me by my sister-in-law. Unfortunately it is a bit pricey and I could only find it at Deseret Book. In the first few pages, I quickly realized it was worth it.

It's a compilation of scripture, with no intermediate interpretation. It takes verses from the first four gospels, the BOM, D&C, and the JST - it combines select verses from each book and combines each of these together in a chronological sequence. It's about the same length as the four gospels combined.

This is a powerful book and shows what happens when you combine modern revelation (D&C) with the BOM and New Testament. It's amazing how well they compliment each other!

How to Find Protection from the Adversary

Elder Scott recently stated to the youth “Immerse yourself in searching for your ancestors, prepare their names for the sacred vicarious ordinances available in the temple, and then go to the temple to stand as proxy for them to receive the ordinances of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. As you grow older you will be able to participate in receiving the other ordinances as well. I can think of no greater protection from the influence of the adversary in your life."

I agree with Elder Scott.  

Why does this combination of searching out those who have gone before, then taking those names to the temple carry such power, for the youth as well as adults?

I have had several personal and great experiences, I would even go so far as to use the word "miracles", while searching out the names of our family and taking them to the temple. These were far more powerful experiences than mere coincidence.

If you want some wonderful and sacred experiences, search out your ancestors and take their names to the temple - those experiences will come. Is all it takes is a little desire and a willingness to actually do something (act). If nothing else, just login to the website below and start going through your history.

A good start is to login to www.new.familysearch.org.

A Cool Video

This is a pretty awesome video. Someone once said, "If the hand of the Lord wasn't involved in the church, its young missionaries would have destroyed it a long time ago!" It was said somewhat jest-fully,  but the point is accurate. The Lord uses young men and young women to accomplish a significant portion of his work.

When you look around the world at what the majority of 18 and 19 yr olds are doing, this is actually quite amazing! Kudos to whoever made this video from Olympus High School. What a band of brothers and sisters! It's fun to watch a testimony of the gospel and atonement begin to grow within my own children.

Enjoy the video.

The Third Lecture

As I read the following statements, I felt a prompting to share them here. In the lectures on faith, Joseph teaches something of great importance at the beginning of the third lecture. He teaches, "Three things are necessary in order that any rational and intelligent being may exercise faith in God unto life and salvation."

He goes on to explain the three points, they are:
1. "The idea that he actually exists."

2. "A correct idea of his character, perfections, and attributes."

3. "An actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing is according to his will." 

Joseph further explains, "For without an acquaintance with these three important facts, the faith of every rational being must be imperfect and unproductive, but with this understanding it can become productive and fruitful."

I want to pause and reflect on #3 - this is important!

Do you and I have an actual knowledge that the course of life we're pursuing is according to his will?

If not, why?

If so, wonderful!

We can all recite the common answers verbatim...read the scriptures, pray, etc.  The question for each of us is how much effort do we really put into doing these things we so often discuss? When done sincerely and with effort, they will lead us to the Lord.

Let me succinctly summarize it here. Think about the veil experience in the temple, it has all three of these components mentioned in the third lecture preparatory to real faith in God. When we understand his character and attributes and we have an actual knowledge that our course is according to his will, THEN we may exercise faith in God unto life and salvation. Then will our faith become productive and fruitful.

He Beheld not the Filthiness...

Nephi was questioned by his brothers regarding the dream of their father. Nephi was asked what the river of water meant or symbolized.

Nephi's response is found in 1 Nephi 15:27 when he explains, "The water was filthiness; and so much was his mind swallowed up in other things that he beheld not the filthiness of the water."

Though there are layers of meaning and symbolism in the different analogies, I realized one profound interpretation from the previous scripture.

When his mind was swallowed up in other things, he didn't behold the filthiness of the water. Sometimes, some of us may be considered naive as to the latest slang, video games, or grievous sins of the world...is that a bad thing? Sometimes I'll learn of some horrific violence, someone who violated an office, or some secret work or combination and I'm amazed that such wickedness could actually transpire. How do such situations of awful wickedness ever develop in the first place?

Is our mind focused and oriented on Christ, such that we don't behold the filthiness which surrounds us on every side?

We live in a world of corruption...drugs, pornography, secret combinations, and so on. Although it's important to be aware of those traps and temptations, when we keep our minds focused on Christ and his gospel, we generally don't understand or behold the filthiness of the water - which is a blessing.

This is simply a reminder not to walk up to the waters edge and see how filthy it really is. We don't need to look at the water. Our concern should be to cling to the rod of iron and keep our focus on the tree and its fruit. When we keep our eyes and efforts focused on the tree and its fruit, our minds and spirit are more likely to be swallowed up and we won't behold the filthiness which surrounds us.

I Will Be Your Light in the Wilderness

I love the verse in 1 Nephi 17:13 when he says "I will also be your light in the wilderness; and I will prepare the way before you, if it so be that ye shall keep my commandments; wherefore, inasmuch as ye shall keep my commandments ye shall be led towards the promised land; and ye shall know that it is by me that ye are led." This verse has great personal application:

- I will be your light in the wilderness: Each of us begins in the wilderness, a place where it's easy to get lost and wander. However, with his light, the way is sure. How many people have been led out of difficult circumstances through "a wilderness"...Moses, Abraham, Lehi, Mulek, Jared, etc.. We each have our own "wilderness".

- I will prepare the way before you: He did so in the case of each name mentioned above. I look back in my life and I'm amazed at how doors seemed to magically open before us in each phase of our life. I'm a living witness that this simple statement is true!

- If it so be that ye shall keep my commandments; This makes the previous statement conditional. When we keep his commandments, he will be our light in the wilderness and prepare the way before us. Do we keep his commandments? How can you and I do better?

- Inasmuch as ye shall keep my commandments, ye shall be led towards the promised land: Using the names listed previously, their "promised land" was different for every one of them. Each were led by the Lord, yet ended up in different places. In our journey through mortality, when we keep his commandments, he will lead US to OUR promised land...whatever and wherever that may be. What's important to understand is that it's conditional upon our obedience. Wherever he leads us will be where he wants us and it will be the best place for us to be.

- And ye shall know that it is by me that ye are led: When we've felt his hand guide us and our family and watched the doors open, when the doors were otherwise closed, we CANNOT deny the guide and the source of the light. We can witness that it was by him that we were led.

During the past 14 years, we have moved around the United States and then moved back to Utah about 1 1/2 years ago. As we look back at our journey (even before the 14 years) it's so plain to see his hand leading us from place to place, even until we've ended up where we are now. In our case, doors open when they were closed. Miracles happened. Some may call it coincidence, I'm well past the point where I call things coincidence.

May we allow the Lord to be our light and guide by keeping his commandments and obeying that voice when we hear or feel it.

For He That Diligently Seeketh

I love the words of Nephi. He made a powerful statement in 1 Nephi 10:19 when he exclaimed,

 "For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost..."

I pose an introspective question for anyone who might read this:

What is "diligently" mean for you and me? Is it 5 or 10 minutes a day reading the scriptures? Is a few minutes of prayer morning and night sufficient?

If a team is diligently preparing for an upcoming game, they tend to put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into their preparation...do we seek the Lord with that level of diligence?

Nephi later goes on to say in 2 Nephi 9:30,

 "Their hearts are upon their treasures; wherefore, their treasure is their God. And behold, their treasure shall perish with them also."

Where do you and I set our hearts? Do we have any "treasure" aside from the one true God? If so, does that treasure prevent us from diligently seeking him?

Nephi was able to see our day and the trials and tribulations we would pass through. His counsel is wise and inspired and we would be wise to hearken to these verses, set aside our "treasure", and diligently seek the Lord.