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.