tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90661806763689811272024-02-19T03:47:20.401-08:00Early Morning MomentsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger110125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-13424232931960693372009-08-05T06:59:00.000-07:002009-08-05T07:07:30.039-07:003 Nephi 8-11I know it has been a while (again) since I've posted. <br />I had an interesting 'ah-ha' moment this morning as I read 3 Nephi 8-10. I realized that in chapters 9 & 10, Jesus Christ speaks directly to the people. They are still in darkness both times, but they are spoken to twice before 3 Nephi 11. <br />Why is that important? Well, it struck me that three is very symbolic. Also the three days and nights of darkness. In 3 Nephi 11, they are spoken to for the third time. Does this tie into the law of three witnesses as well? Something to contemplate. <br /><br />What really struck me though, is that many times (maybe due to my mission) I focus on 3 Nephi 11 and on. However, I realized today that these people were being prepared to see Jesus Christ. When they hear the voice in 3 Ne. 11, they've actually already heard a voice from the heavens twice. While it takes three times for them to distinguish what is being said, they had been being prepared to hear it. So, I'm not sure why, but this strikes me as interesting. How am I being prepared? How do I prepare myself each day to hear the voice of the Lord? Do I actually hear it in my life? <br /><br />Finally, the symbolism is also striking. Twice, when they were spoken to from the heavens they were in darkness. The third time (when Christ descended) there was light. What great symbolism for the light of gospel knowledge. <br /><br />Yes, I could go on and on. So much there to think about, so I thought I'd share as I keep on thinking about it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-85746683985953818212009-06-27T22:54:00.000-07:002009-06-27T23:11:47.997-07:00Leadership model and divine directionIn 5 minutes it will be 12:00 am. I guess that qualifies as an early morning moment right?<br /><br />I really should be working on something else, but I felt like I really needed to record this, and typing is much faster than writing in my journal by hand. <br /><br />I was asked a while ago to accompany a stake leader to help with some training and ideas for a small struggling Spanish branch within our stake. While I've been excited and happy to do so, I've had a difficult time trying to figure out what to prepare as I couldn't get hold of the people that I'll be working with to find out the time constraints, what they've been working on, and what I can help with etc. Finally, yesterday someone called me back. Unfortunately, I've been swamped all day today and started at 9:30 tonight trying to put this together. <br /><br />While I found some general ideas that I'd like to teach, I'd been struggling to know exactly what to teach. I couldn't find my Spanish scriptures, so I grabbed some off of my bookshelf. The set I grabbed weren't actually mine. They were a companion's from my mission. They somehow made it home with me and I've never been able to track her down to return them to her - so here they sit on my shelf. <br /><br />Anyways, as I've been jotting down notes and trying to get my lesson plan down and put together, I started with a prayer. Things really began to flow, but then I've got so many ideas I'm trying to figure out how to work them all. I decided to stop for a second and make a list of what my focus will be. Which principles am I really trying to teach, and what should I be teaching? <br /><br />As I paused, my eyes wandered to the back of the 'borrowed' scriptures. There lay a picture of my companion and her family, tucked into the back of her scriptures. I pulled it out to look at it, and along with it came a jumble of other papers. <br /><br />In addition to the papers, I found the plan of salvation done in construction paper - already ready. I'd been agonizing about wanting to use part of this, but not having the time to put it together. The other bonus is that it is ALREADY in Spanish! <br /><br />Some might say - coincidence, but I don't really think so. <br /><br />Then, I found some notes she'd taken from a missionary meeting. I couldn't believe the message and felt like it was really just for me. <br /><br />It said - <br />Leadership Model<br /><br />Whatever you do, you must teach others to do<br />1. Explain<br />2. Demonstrate<br />3. Practice with those being trained (most of the time in this)<br />4. Evaluate (positive and kind)<br />5. Practice again<br /><br />Don't offend. <br /><br />It also said that we need to find joy in being a member of the Church. This is interesting to me as part of my lesson is about joy. <br />Also - It is by doing that we learn. God Cannot break his commandments. <br />Rejoice that we have the commandments. <br /><br />There are so many little nuggets in there - so much to ponder and think about. Unfortunately, I am tired and deciding to go to bed. <br />I believe the rest of my inspiration will come in the morning, but just wanted to get this down now while it was fresh.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-68414931993283876852009-05-11T19:46:00.000-07:002009-05-11T19:58:53.158-07:00Alma 16Alma is the book (after 2nd Nephi in the Isaiah chapters) where I would always get bogged down and stuck when I was reading the Book of Mormon. I just had such a hard time getting through Alma for a very long time. I can't even count how many tries it took me until I broke the Alma barrier. I remember however, that once it was broken, I couldn't believe what I had been missing. I was amazed and enthralled. Now, I have read and re-read the Book of Mormon so many times since that first time, but I think I still worry inwardly a little about getting through Alma. <br /><br />With that history in mind, as I sat down to read today I was thinking. Okay, if I can just get to chapter 17, I'll be okay. This is because from chapter 17 on is one of my very most favorite stories. I kept thinking.. I just need to get through this to get there. What a pity. As I read from 13 to 16, I felt a little ashamed that I'd forgotten how amazing these chapters were. They all are, but it was a blessing to read this morning. <br />I really spent some time pondering Amulek, and the price of his discipleship. He lost all of his riches, his father and his kindred when he chose to follow the gospel, and he was a rich and influential man. I pondered what the price of my discipleship is. Would I be willing to pay such a price as he did? <br /><br />I also pondered over the realization that I go through life with faith that everything will always work out. Do what is right, keep the commandments, and things will work out. However, I thought about that as I thought about the wives and children of the men who were cast out who had believed. They were burned. I realized, that sometimes, things don't work out right. Sometimes the Lord does let awful things happen. I understand why - Alma 60:13, as well as some verses in Alma 16 tell us that it is so that the Lord can judge the wicked. If they were always stopped from doing wicked, there would be no free agency. While I understand this, I just hadn't understood that sometimes things don't work out. While tough, that's also part of his plan as well. <br /><br />Along those lines, someone sent me an e-mail forward the other day. It said that the because the Lord loves us, He sends different people into our lives. However, the people in our lives aren't always there to make us happy. Some will make us sad, some will hurt us, some will leave us...etc. However, it is all part of the refining and trying process. We are sent the people and experiences which we need to be worthy and become what HE would have us become - not necessarily what WE think we should become.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-7043505706986018382009-04-30T09:06:00.001-07:002009-04-30T09:24:56.550-07:00One's actions - something to ponderAs I've been reading in the end of Mosiah and the beginning of the book of Alma, I've had one thought that has strongly impressed me. <br /><br />I think that we often fail to see the impact that one mortal person has upon their own individual sphere, as well as upon generations, and thousands of others. I know that I often feel microscopic, and that my personal contributions may amount to nothing. <br /><br />Then I remember a quote that says, "The hand that rocks the cradle, rocks the world" or something to that effect and I think about the impact that I can have upon the world as a mother... I think we forget how much we can touch and influence others. <br /><br />As I've been studying, I've been thinking about and contrasting these impacts. I know that I previously commented on Abinadi's impact upon generations. Likewise, in Alma 3, chronicles that more than 19,000 were slain in one battle, and later, the number of the slain was not taken because of the greatness of the number. Thousands and tens of thousands or souls were lost all because ONE man wanted to be the king. <br /><br />Think about that. Thousands and tens of thousands. All for ONE man. Who, by the way, was wicked. Absolutely Astonishing.<br /><br />So, as I've had this observation simmering in the back of my head, this morning I began to think of contrasting people who had changed the world. I thought of Lehi and Abinadi whom I've mentioned previously. Then I thought about Joseph Smith. I realized that because of his simple prayer, he changed the world. Currently there are over 12 million members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the world today. Over 12 million lives have been touched by a young farm boy and his simple prayer. Not to mention the millions who were affected and who have since passed away. On a greater scale, I think of Jesus Christ. I think about the impact which He has had upon the world. Wars have been fought for Christianity's sake. Men and women have become better people because of Christ's teachings. Most importantly though, through Christ, we gain hope of a better world. We obtain forgiveness and mercy, and eternal life through Him. <br /><br />I read the following quote, written in 1917 by Joseph F. Smith which really caused me to pause and consider.<br /><br />"The voice of the pessimistic agitator is heard in the land today. He is loud in denunciation of existing systems and vigorous in demand for new laws and governmental reforms. Progressive legislation is undoubtedly necessary, and abuse of power, neglect of duty, or other evils in national or local administration, should be promptly corrected; but the crying need of mankind is individual reformation. The thorough purification and effective regulation of society as a system through repressive legislation is a stupendous and well-nigh hopeless undertaking. The natural and rational plan of improvement must deal largely with the education of the society unit, the individual citizen." (Joseph F. Smith, "Unchastity, the Dominant Evil of the Age, " Improvement Era, June 1917, p. 738.)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-74058349567972559912009-04-17T08:10:00.000-07:002009-04-17T08:27:47.156-07:00New Era February 2009This morning as I was searching for shoes trying to get my kids out the door, I came across the New Era magazine from February 2009 that had somehow slipped underneath the couch. After I got my kids out the door, one of the articles caught my eye, and instead of just one article, I ended up consuming the magazine from cover to cover. <br /><br />As I blogged yesterday in regards to the influence which Abinadi had upon the future church, I was interested to read the very first article in this magazine. It is a message titled, "The Value of A Good Name." Similar to Alma's conversion, the author Elder L. Tom Perry talks about the conversion of his ancestor Gustavus Adolphus Perry back around 1830. Elder Perry then goes on to share that his brother spent a year searching, and was amazed that he had found more than 10,000 descendants of this man. <br /><br />I think of the monumental impact that joining the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has had upon the descendants of this man. I also think of the impact that Elder L. Tom Perry has had throughout the world as he serves as an apostle of Jesus Christ. We have no idea what kind of an eternal ripple our small daily decisions will have upon the future. This inspires me to try to do better each day. <br /><br />Additionally, I enjoyed an article titled, "It's not easy" about a young girl whose friends invited her to church. She became converted and later was able to be baptized. She discussed some of the difficulties of being the only member of the church in her family. She states that sometimes people ask her how can she do it, how can she stay so strong in the Church all by herself. I loved her answer. <br /><br />"Well, the answer is simple. I'm not alone. I have had my struggles since my baptism - it's not easy being the only Church member in my family. But the Lord has promised that He will never leave us alone (John 14:16-18)...Life is hard, and we have all gone through times when we have felt that our strength is gone and our faith is weak. But if we will cling to the One who loves us the most - Heavenly Father - and strengthen our relationship with Him through study and prayer, we will make it through. The Lord promised: "I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up" (D&C 84:88). <br /><br />I love that scripture - it gives me great comfort to know that our Heavenly Father is ever mindful and watchful of us. <br /><br />Looking forward to a wonderful day.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-87074929959022558432009-04-16T08:58:00.000-07:002009-04-16T09:24:19.350-07:00Mosiah 15-17/Censorship, Types & Personal CommitmentAs I read this Mosiah's words and the narrative today, I heard an echo. I took the time using my topical guide to find some similar phrases, and was amazed at the type and shadow of Christ that is seen here within this passage. <br /><br />Before I go into that, one thing that I've noted as interesting throughout this section is the censorship. Living in the US, it is hard to fully understand that one could be put to death solely for his words. I contemplated on China's Tiananmen Square protests in 1989 when 2-3,000 people were massacred. <br /><br />Living in the US, we are blessed with the protection of freedom of speech. However, this is not necessarily the case in the rest of the world. It was not so in Abinadi's case, nor in Jesus Christ's case. Freedom of speech - what a blessing that I don't consider often enough. <br /><br />Moving on, it was interesting to me to note the echo of Pilate's words to Christ when King Noah (Mosiah 17:11) is about to set Abinadi free because he believed him, yet the wicked priests (v. 12) went against him and stirred up the king's anger against him. <br />They then bound him and scourged him. What a comparison with Mark 15:15-19 and John 19:1. <br /><br />As they began to burn Abinadi, he uttered a prophecy which I also found interesting (v. 17.) Here he prophecies that they would be smitten on every hand and driven and scattered. I found an interesting contrast with the prophecies regarding the Jews who killed Jesus Christ in 1 Ne. 19:13-14, and 3 Ne. 16:9. Almost the same prophecies are proclaimed. <br /><br />Lastly, as I read this, I pondered the following question. What is the cost of discipleship? What is my personal cost. Abinadi gave his life. While I may not be called upon to be a martyr, am I equally willing to give my life? Do I currently give my life for what I believe? <br /><br />Is my personal commitment such that I will remain faithful no matter what the circumstances? <br /><br />If I have eternal goals, I need to plan and prepare for them so that I am prepared to pay the cost of attaining those spiritual and eternal goals. <br /><br />Interestingly, it all depends on me, my decisions and my desires. It is an individual decision that only we can make for ourselves. <br /><br />I am reminded of one of my favorite quotes. I first heard it in the MTC as I was preparing to work as a missionary. It is by Joan of Arc as follows:<br /><br />"The world can use these words. I know this now. Every man gives his life for what he believes. Every woman gives her life for what she believes. Sometimes people believe in little or nothing, and yet they give their lives to that little or nothing. One life is all we have, and we live it as we believe in living it and then it's gone. But to surrender what you are and live without belief is more terrible than dying - even more terrible than dying young."<br /><br />Along those lines, as I used the BOM Institute study guide, it was interesting to note that as Alma is introduced here, he is very young. It is probable that Abinadi felt that his words were in vain. However, much of the religious history of the Nephite nation for the next 300 years is concerned with Alma and his descendants. Alma the Younger, his son Helaman, Helaman II, Nephi, and Nephi II (Christ's apostle when He visited the Americas) are all descendants of Alma. Amazingly, Abinadi affected the religious life of the Nephites for hundreds of years. <br />(CES BOM study guide p. 195)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-20555258908346330892009-04-15T07:55:00.001-07:002009-04-15T08:08:13.299-07:00Christ the FatherContinuing along the same lines as the last post, today as I was reading, I came across more to think about as Christ being the Father. As I study, I generally use one of the institute manuals and read through it after I've read and pondered what I was reading for the day. Interestingly, I found more today about Jesus Christ being the Father. While the manual made the points about Jesus Christ being our Father through the resurrection - this may have made more of an impact upon me since Easter was just last weekend and on my mind, but it also brought up the following: <br /><br />"On June 30, 1916 the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles set forth a detailed statement on the Father and the Son. In this exposition Christ, the literal son of God the Eternal Father is represented as the Father in three ways:<br /><br />He is the Father as Creator. Christ is referred to in many scriptural passages as "the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth" )Mosiah 15:4, 16:5, Alma 11:38-39, Ether 4:7.)<br /><br />He is the Father of all who accept his atoning sacrifice and covenant with him to obey his everlasting goepel. There are numerous scriptural passages that express this relationship (Mosiah 5:7, 15:10-13, ether 3:14, D&C 25:1, 34:1-3, 39:1-4). <br /><br />He is the Father by divine investiture of authority. This means that the Savior is the fully authorized and commissioned representative of his Father, and as such can speak and act for the Father. <br /><br />The First Presidency and Council of the Twelve explained divine investiture of authority as follows: "In all His dealings with the human family Jesus the Son has represented and yet represents Elohim His Father in power and authority. This is true of Christ in His preexistent, antemortal, or unembodied state, in the which He was know as Jehovah; also during his embodiment in the flesh; and during His labors as a disembodied spirit in the realm of the dead...Thus the Father placed His name upon the Son; and Jesus Christ spoke and ministered in and through the Father's name; and so far as power, authority, and Godship are concerned His words and acts were and are those of the Father" (Articles of Father p. 471)."<br /><br />A friend once told me that they used to feel by serving a mission that they were somehow 'paying back' Christ and our Heavenly Father. Then they realized that because of the opportunity that they had to serve a mission, they were so much more indebted - even more than before. As I study and read, and learn new concepts, ideas, and principles, that thought is driven home again and again. What a blessing is learning and spiritual growth.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-81782426520364085882009-04-14T07:47:00.001-07:002009-04-14T07:55:40.211-07:00Three FathersYesterday as I continued my journey through Mosiah in the Book of Mormon, I came across something I found very intriguing. While I still have more to think about and ponder in regards to this, one of the study manuals I read along with my scriptures pointed out that we need three fathers to become like our Heavenly Father. <br /><br />The first Father is our Heavenly Father who gave us our spirit body. <br />The second father is our earthly father who gives us our physical body. <br />The third Father is Jesus Christ. While I had always understood that He created all things under the direction of the Father, I learned that there is much more than solely this. When Jesus Christ paid for our sins, He took them upon Him. When we repent and are baptized, and take upon ourselves His name, we are adopted into the Abrahamic Covenant and become members of His family - He is the Father, or as scripture reads - 'the author of our salvation' (I love that!)<br /><br />Here's the new understanding I gained yesterday that adds to this. When Jesus Christ was resurrected, as we all know, the body and spirit which had been separated were reunited. When we are resurrected after our death at resurrection, this is through Jesus Christ who broke that barrier and overcame the death. Our resurrection is as another birth where our spirits and bodies are re-united and it is through Jesus Christ - the Father of our resurrection. <br />I'm not sure if I got this all out quite like I'd hoped to, but I've enjoyed pondering this and wanted to record and share this insight.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-70919607541288607282009-04-14T07:37:00.001-07:002009-04-14T07:47:13.981-07:00Mosiah 2I've been reading in the Book of Mormon and re-discovered Mosiah 2 last week. I still can't get over how moved I was as I read this chapter. I love the chiasma seen in this particular chapter. As it is broken down the theme of indebtedness is so prevalent. However what really caught my attention were some notes which I'd jotted in the margins previously about this chapter. <br /><br />The notes were in regards to the definitions of the terms, granted and loaned. While a grant is something that is generally freely given, generally there are no specifications regarding the repayment. While something may be anticipated, it is not generally completely spelled out. Loaned however generally has a specific connotation in regards to repayment. If something is loaned, repayment is expected and exacted. <br /><br />Therefore, as this chapter speaks about our lives being granted to us, and our breath loaned to us, I really stopped to consider - what is the expected repayment? <br />As I contemplated this, I contemplated the chapter and King Benjamin's words on service. As he explains, when we are in the service of our fellow men, we are in the service of God. We repay our loan for our life and our breath in serving other people. <br />I believe that service is the key to life. Instead of focusing on what we have or want, we share what we have and help to lift others. Jesus Christ is such an amazing example of giving His life in our service. Everything He did was to help others. He had no ulterior motives, nor any focus on himself. His great expiation was an act of service for each one of us so that we can return to our Father in Heaven. He gave His life so that we might live. <br />What greater sermon could King Benjamin have given? I'm not sure why this was so poignant for me, but I've fallen in love with this chapter like never before. My gratitude for the Savior has grown while my determination to serve more, be more selfless and do better has increased.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-67279559810004796432009-03-17T07:35:00.000-07:002009-03-17T07:44:58.680-07:00BetrayalI noticed that this blog still receives a couple of visits here and there, and so I thought that I would work a little harder to keep it going.<br /><br />Yesterday I was having a tough day and was struggling with some interpersonal relationships. As my thoughts turned to Christ, I began to think about his life and wondered if he had gone through any of the same issues which I have been dealing with. Of course the answer is yes - he went through it all so that he could succor us. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOzZB-hoABA8o_zSNvaWpLYKrslvHjVXFIxERBKG1IO0nWnl79_0xAT41BlFEVk5qsv7I72TXQNj-bZZ0EhPrOSi0I6LdCM5hIst-0bWzH26DcGAYvqdavvWPd3NBhYbcIxYhi-IwrOHE/s1600-h/christus.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 220px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOzZB-hoABA8o_zSNvaWpLYKrslvHjVXFIxERBKG1IO0nWnl79_0xAT41BlFEVk5qsv7I72TXQNj-bZZ0EhPrOSi0I6LdCM5hIst-0bWzH26DcGAYvqdavvWPd3NBhYbcIxYhi-IwrOHE/s320/christus.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314167594601857010" /></a>However, I really began to ponder how he may have gone through some of my concerns. I was struck with the thought of Judas Iscariot. Christ knew that Judas would betray Him, and He knew that it had to be done. As Judas went to betray Him, Christ asked him to go quickly and get it done. What mental anguish must have been involved. <br />I know as I've struggled with my personal feelings that the theory is always much easier to master rather than the action. <br />I grew yesterday in knowing that there is One who knows. He has been there and felt my pain and anguish, and He indeed loves me and knows how to succor me. What peace and joy I gain from such knowledge.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-3034341950431164472008-08-07T20:33:00.000-07:002008-08-07T20:34:20.295-07:00The Trek - Martin's Cove Youth Conference 08We are back from an amazing experience. What a blessing it is to take time out of life for spiritual rest and remembrance. Three years ago, we went on the same trek, to the same place, even with some of the same youth. For some reason however, this trek was SO different. I'm sure the difference was me - but it is something that has become very special to me.<br /><br />We left our girls with some friends in our ward - thanks SO MUCH!! We are blessed to have them as friends that we feel comfortable leaving the girls with. We had dinner with them on Sunday night and then left the girls there. We got up VERY early on Monday morning and met everyone at 6:00 am at the church. Drove to another pick up<br />spot and approximately 7 hours later arrived at our destination - Martin's Cove in Wyoming.<br />There, we were divided into families and the fun began. At first we were pretty apprehensive. Our 8 'kids' didn't appear to like each other, get along, or want to even be near each other. I think our thoughts were along the lines of - oh brother - what have we gotten ourselves into? Three days of this might be pretty tough. However, we packed all of our belongings onto the handcart.<br /><br />We had a brief orientation, where inside one of the cabins I was able to locate some of my ancestors. I learned that William Stimpson was 33 years old when he traveled through Martin's Cove in 1856. Approximately one week prior to his arrival there, he had buried his 2 year old son after crossing the North Platte River (now near Casper) and then while there in the cove, he buried his wife Rebecca who was 31, and a newborn baby boy who was premature.<br /><br />Well, we as we traveled, our stuff constantly fell off of the cart- it was ALMOST humorous. We arrived and figured out our tent situations and got our camp set up. Had dinner, watched the kids do some square dancing, had a devotional, and then we had a family home evening around the campfire. We asked our kids to share a pioneer story, or a favorite scripture story. I was grateful as they began to open up and share some of themselves with everyone. We had a beautiful sunset, and the stars were gorgeous.<br /><br />As we went to bed, the wind picked up - it was CRAZY. Sometime after 1:00 it died down and we were all finally able to get to sleep.<br />The next morning we hitched up our handcarts and traveled to the Veil Bridge which connects the present with the past. The original land owner requested that his posterity never allow a plow to touch the ground there, and so the landscape is the same as it was back in the 1850's. We had a devotional in Dan's Cove, and then spent time in Martin's Cove. When President Hinckley dedicated the Cove in 1997, he stated that the spirits of those who gave their lives there were there. Although Wyoming doesn't have a temple, this land was dedicated as a temple and hallowed ground - made hallowed by the sacrifices. While in the Cove, I had some very distinctive experiences, and I think I took care of 6 months worth of crying(and for the record - I really don't cry.) It was a very special experience for both myself and my husband.<br /><br />Later, we had the opportunity to cross the Sweetwater river. The young men were given the opportunity to carry people across the river if they so desired - which I believe was a very special experience for many of the, and then the men were called away to the Mormon Battalion. The women had a short devotional with a very interesting topic. It was pointed out that most women at some time in their lives will have to pull their carts on their own. Whether through lack of finding a worthy mate, divorce, or death the likelihood is great. They talked about the similarity of the YW values as pioneer values, and then - the Young Women were asked to pull their carts on their own. The men lined the path, took of their hats and silently watched as these strong young women carried all of their belongings as well as a 'sick' person up the steepest and sandiest hill. My young sisters told me it was the hardest thing they had ever done in their lives.<br /><br />Most were hot and tired when we got back to camp. My daughters and I slipped away to quickly shampoo our hair, and then we were informed about a last minute change of plans which allowed us to go (girls first, then boys) play in the river for 30 minutes to cool down. That was a blast!<br /><br />We then had dinner, more square dancing, a fireside, then a bonfire testimony meeting. That night after the kid's chatting died down, the wind picked back up - it was another tough sleep night.<br /><br />In the morning, we broke down our camp, and reloaded our cart. One of our daughters had a great idea on how to do it, but the stuff STILL seemed to fall off - just not as often as previously. We started talking about movies and everyone finally started to really laugh, bond, and have lots of fun together. We got back to the pick up area a little bit early, and had some extra time, so 4 of the youth in our family and we decided to go an extra couple of miles and visit Devil's Gate. What a BEAUTIFUL area - probably the most pretty of it all - definitely worth the extra mileage! Afterwards, we loaded up and headed home.<br /><br />I'm so grateful for the wonderful experience we had. We really were able to connect with several of our 'children' and it was truly and amazing experience.<br />Although - the shower and clean bed were REALLY nice last night too! I must be getting older, cause I really like my own bed A LOT!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-82050192505732017202008-06-19T22:54:00.000-07:002008-06-19T23:08:48.807-07:00Cool experienceSo - yes, I'm still working on Isaiah, but I had a cool experience today that I wanted to write about. <br /><br />I see in my life, over and over again the Lord's hand. <br />Today we spent the day up valley because we'd spent the night there. The girls and I ran to Wally's for some $2.00 flip flops since someone didn't bring any shoes with us at all. On our way back, I was planning on going and hanging out in the village, but the girls began shouting - No..you promised we could go to ...park - we really want to go there. I thought they'd changed their minds or forgotten. So, we went to the park. <br /><br />While the girls played, I sat down in some shade and watched. A woman walked up and sat down nearby. <br />After several minutes, we began to converse. In the back of my head I had the thought - ask her if she has a church to go to - I wasn't sure about that, but kept it there, in the back of my head. We talked about music and many things. Turns out she is from Columbia (the country.) She is here seeking political asylum and is a single mom working 2 jobs. She had a pretty sad story, which I heard a very small fraction of. <br /><br />As we were talking, I brought it up. I asked if she had support, or a church to go to. She was sort of surprised, and asked if I had one? I told her yes, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She looked really shocked and told me that she had just been baptized into this church 3 months ago - it was the most beautiful experience of her life. She has been struggling because she has not been able to get off of work on Sundays to attend church. <br /><br />She said that she had been praying today that the Lord would bring her something or uplift her at the park today, and there I was - her sister. It was pretty trippy. I shared with her some encouragement and we hugged several times etc. Before I left, she asked if I would say a prayer with her. So, right there in the park, we sat down and said a prayer together for her and her struggles. <br /><br />I am amazed at how well the Lord knows us, and how often He sends others to answer our prayers. This sister of mine and I connected - and I had such a great opportunity to share my faith in a Heavenly Father who loves us with her. Some might call it a coincidence, but I don't, I call it an answer to a prayer. <br />What a blessing to have the Lord use you as such! <br />It reminds me of a talk by President Eyring - he said something to the effect that each day we need to pray to be the Lord's instrument - if we are prepared and willing, the Lord will use us - but it is up to us and our willingness!<br />What a special lesson I had today.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-78060999178012132942008-06-14T23:32:00.000-07:002008-06-14T23:47:07.769-07:00June 15, 2008I haven't posted for a while - a very long while. I've been working my way through Isaiah - VERY SLOWLY. I think I'm on Chapter 11 now (maybe.) But I've been enjoying it. Isaiah is a literary genius and I've really enjoyed slowing down and learning to appreciate him - and his distinctive writing style. <br /><br />I've been thinking a lot lately in regards to the parable of the vineyard. Israel/Us today have been preserved and put in a choice spot. The husbandman (Christ) watches over us. The vine, the grapes and the press are all symbolic of Christ's atonement. He gives his ALL for all of us - through the atonement. However, we often give sour fruit.. we don't apply the atonement or use it in our lives - we just ignore it and think we can do it on our own. It's true but unfortunately not the case in reality. <br />Anyways - I always thought about Israel when I read this, but I think it is very applicable to us today. <br /><br />Today my husband and I sat down to watch a movie. As I started to wash the dishes afterwards, I was thinking about it. One of the characters said - "what kind of adult doesn't even swear?", there were references to drugs, infidelity, fornication, alcohol, promiscuity, language, and homosexuality. As I add it up - it looks pretty bad.. as I thought about the show I realized how callused we can become to this stuff and how quickly it happens. Despite all of this - I would maybe term the movie as middle of the road. (We do have a filthy filter though - so I may be way off). I was just really disappointed in the show. Disappointed that movies have to have this crap in them, and that this is what our society teaches is okay, good, and acceptable. Totally delusional. <br /><br />So - back to Isaiah... I found a verse that I've always loved - rather a phrase. <br />I keep seeing it here and there and I always seem to fall in love with it again each time I see it. It says, " and His arm is stretched out still." Our Heavenly Father loves us no matter What we do. Sure, we disappoint Him, but His love doesn't change. <br />His arm (a symbol of his power) is ALWAYS stretched out to us. It is like we are on a hill, trying to ascend. He is reaching out, always ready to grab on and help pull us up to the top, but He can't do that unless we put our hand in His. Pretty simple in theory - so difficult in practice. <br />Anyways - it is a good thing to remember - His arm is stretched out still..Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-46435894386312767292008-04-22T06:53:00.000-07:002008-04-22T07:00:33.587-07:00Preach or TestifyI learned something very interesting this week. Something I know, but what a reminder it was. <br />During church, we had a speaker who talked for 45 minutes. Yes, there was merit to the talk, but it was one of those talks that was really difficult to focus on and hang in there with. <br />After a quick rest hymn, his companion spoke. The companion spoke for only three minutes. He told the story of his conversion. His cousin had given him a copy of the Book of Mormon. He began to read it and a few months later - prayed and KNEW - absolutely knew that the Book of Mormon was true, and that the church was true. The spirit was so strong. It touched everyone's hearts. It was so short, simple and true, but there was such a night and day contrast to the spirit which was felt. <br />When we testify, the spirit carries it into the hearts. When we preach - it sure ends up being hard to hang in there.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-48546675344359359672008-04-05T21:59:00.000-07:002008-04-05T22:10:17.982-07:00Solemn AssemblyI want to say that today - from a friend's front room, I had the opportunity to participate in a solemn assembly. I am so grateful to see how the passing of the keys works. It isn't seen very often - only 16 times - but it is a marvelous thing to behold. I felt the spirit so strongly as each group rose to sustain the new prophet of the Lord. What a blessing to have a prophet who speaks to us today. I thought about those who are too busy with their lives to stop and listen to conference, thinking, oh I can read it later. What a pity. My husband said that President Uchtdorf spoke tonight about course correction. He said that if a plane takes off from the equator, but is off, by only 2 degrees, he will end up 500 miles off of course. Wow! What a graphic example, yet how completely true. Elder Maxwell talked about the same concept in Oct '95, Swallowed in the Will of the Father - my all time favorite talk. The course correction - which we have to constantly be making. <br />What a blessing it is to be able to listen to a prophets' voice and to hear what the Lord personally is telling me through the Holy Ghost. <br /><br />I just finished a Parenting class through BYU. Along with the curriculum, I had to read reams of talks which were related to (obviously) the family, and the proclamation to the world. I was very interested during the first session to note that every single talk was related to the family, to the war on the family, and to strengthening the families. Even the opening and closing prayers emphasized this. What import! Satan fights us, and if he can destroy the family, he can destroy our culture, our government and even our economy (as one of the speakers declared). What a war we are waging. As I see this - I realize how important the spiritual armor has to be - I know that we receive protection from scriptures, prayer and fasting. <br />My husband made an interesting comment tonight after the Priesthood session. David was in the wrong place - he should have been at war with his army. Saul - was chosen of the Lord, but didn't want to wait for his priesthood leaders. If we go to our meetings, (and are where we need to be) and follow our leaders, we will be able to stay on course. When we stop being where we should be, or start to question our leaders, we really step off of the course, and begin along something different than what the Lord had in mind. <br />Something to thing about.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-81829805082104782192008-04-05T21:45:00.000-07:002008-04-05T21:56:37.665-07:00Psalms - Yes AGAIN!So, as posted on my personal blog, I've decided to keep this blog, and comment on my personal studies and insights rather than what I'm teaching (since I'm not teaching)<br />I think I'll archive all of the teaching stuff. <br />Anyways - as previously mentioned, I decided to take the time to go back (now that I don't HAVE to do any particular book in 24 -48 hours for a lesson) and really study some of the books which I just couldn't make it through at the pace we were going. I don't have to be finished by the end of the school year now, so I really want to explore it a little more deeply. <br /><br />This morning I finished the book of Psalms. What a great book! Honestly, its been a really long time since I read it. I found some absolutely beautiful poetry - breathtaking in fact. I also found several references to the Tender Mercies of the Lord. Each time I saw that reference, I was reminded of Elder Bednar's talk a couple of years ago. Additionally, I guess I always thought when I read Nephi's comments on this that he had sort of made it up. I believe Nephi's reference actually shows how well he knew the scriptures. Ever noticed how prophets often just quote each other? I mean - honestly, this stuff isn't new. The gospel has been around since Adam (besides that small lapse during the apostasy). So - we see that Nephi was referencing Psalms. Additionally - I found a little fun project I started today after I finished my reading. In the back of the hymn book, there is a reference of related scriptures. There are about 3 columns of references of hymns to different Psalms. I've almost finished cross-referencing them in my scriptures. It's pretty cool to see how some of them fit. Also, as I read, I marked notes of hymns which I thought went along with the different psalms. One of my favorite hymns is Jesus Lover of my Soul. I was amazed to find so many references to this (just little snippets here and there, but everywhere) as well as references to being my rock, my fortress, my foundation etc. It's actually a pretty cool project (I think). I will begin going back through tomorrow with the institute manual and a couple of other references to glean more insights to the book of Psalms. <br />I did find several doxologies - formal declarations of God's power. These are generally found at the end of verses. Just super cool stuff. <br />I'll keep updating as I go.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-70607381976680370582008-03-26T21:34:00.000-07:002008-03-26T21:42:35.250-07:00Teaching Changes - March 26, 2008I never thought that I wouldn't be one of the survivors standing in the final photo of the year, however this appears to be the case.<br />As the last blog talked about seasons and times (Ecclesiastes 3), I have come to a different season in my life and will not be able to finish out teaching this year. I am very grateful to those parents and students who were supportive of my efforts - thank you so much - your support has been invaluable. I have learned many things this year, and I have enjoyed spending each morning with your wonderful youth - thank you for sharing them with me!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-67206049486433741642008-03-20T22:14:00.000-07:002008-03-20T22:15:48.527-07:00March 20, 2008Just for those of you who check on a daily basis - due to the fact that we were at a good stopping point, and the students were doing testing at school, and therefore starting at very different times, and because spring break is all of next week, I canceled class today and tomorrow. We will be starting in Isaiah when we start back up after next week.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-16726444680965693502008-03-19T07:41:00.000-07:002008-03-19T07:53:03.991-07:00March 19, 2008Ecclesiastes - what a book. <br />Today we talked a little bit about seasons of life - the students came up with a list of some which we all go through. <br />We then checked out the Bible Dictionary and found out a little more about this book. We learned that it was written by David's son, the king (Solomon? most likely?)..<br />We know that Solomon had SO many riches - it was out of control. I think this makes the book even that much more insightful. Additionally, knowing what kind of wisdom he had even adds to the bang. <br />We read in the bible dictionary that 'vanity' as used in this book refers to 'transitory or fleeting'. <br /><br />The students opened up to chapter three, and as they listened to the Byrds version of Ecclesiastes in the song Turn Turn Turn, they underlined everything that they heard mentioned. It was pretty well represented. We talked about what the main point might have been - what the author might have been trying to tell us through these verses. <br /><br />Then, we had the students stand on their chairs. They closed their eyes and imagined that they had just hiked up a huge mountain. From their vantage point, they could see everything below them. People were miniscule, and cars and vehicles looked like little toys. We talked about what they saw - people shopping, getting mugged (that was an active imagination), people watching T.V. We talked about what type of advice we would want to give these people as we saw them from our vantage point. <br />Back in our seats, we talked about what this author was really trying to tell us. <br />We read the second to last chapter in the book, 12:13. Let us hear the conclusion of the matter...the author spent almost 12 chapters talking about all of the things of the world that we get wrapped up in, all of the petty things, all of the bad hair days etc. Finally, he shares what he thinks is really the most important and what we should be focusing on..."Fear God and keep His commandments"... <br />What a huge message! He's had time to see everything from such a different vantage point. He's had wine, women, money, power, glory of the earth and nations, and even as the wisest person - this is the most important. <br /><br />Finally, developing this idea further - we discussed Christ upon the mountain. As Christ was tempted by Satan, He was tempted with three things. Food, angels (power) and the city. Christ was fasting at that time - there would be a time when He would eat - but it wasn't that time. Christ would have a time when the city would/will be His - but it wasn't that time. Christ had a time when the angels would hold him up - but it wasn't that time. Everything has a time - somethings are more important today than they will be tomorrow. We need to "Fear God and keep His commandments" and make sure that we are doing things at the proper time - for there truly is a season for all.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-87651296586097776452008-03-18T06:46:00.000-07:002008-03-18T06:49:33.146-07:00March 14th, 17 & 18, 2008On Friday we played a March Madness scripture mastery game. <br />On Monday, we did an object lesson - faith walk to teach our scripture mastery of Proverbs 3:5-6. The students each chose a guide to guide them through an obstacle course, while others tried to disuade them while objects were placed in their ways. The students seemed to have a great time trying to blockade each other in. We ended class with DC 122 - reading about the counsel given to Joseph about some of his trials. <br />Today we studied proverbs. The students shared some of their favorite sayings, then we looked in proverbs and found some of our favorite proverbs to share. We then played Proverbs Balderdash. We read the beginnings of proverbs, and the students came up with possible answers. We voted to guess the right one. <br />Tomorrow we will study Ecclesiastes.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-55150930279031812142008-03-14T07:12:00.001-07:002008-03-14T07:13:18.525-07:00March 14, 2008Today we worked a little more on Daniel 2:44-45, and then we played a March Madness basketball scripture mastery game. Hannah became our reigning champ! Congrats!<br />On Monday we will begin in Proverbs and continue working on that scripture mastery.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-75895437596822688212008-03-13T09:35:00.000-07:002008-03-13T09:44:27.137-07:00March 12 & 13 2008Yesterday we started the book of Psalms. The students each picked and shared one of their favorite hymns. We spent some time with a reference sheet, and saw that many of the students' favorite hymns are based on Psalms. We then looked up these psalms and compared them to the hymns. Some of them were almost word for word, while others required a little more imagination - but we could see how most of them related to or had been derived from the Psalms. We spent some time learning about a couple of literary forms or tools called doxologies and chiasmas. The students were able to replicate and put together/diagram a chiasma on the board - thus being able to see how they really worked. <br />We talked about the forms used in the Psalms, and saw that many of them were written by David. We also saw that most of them can fit into four different categories - Praise and Thanksgiving, Repentance, Messianic messages, and Temples/worship. <br /><br />Finally, I asked the students to write their own Psalm. Today we planned to have a Seminary Academy of the Performing Arts awards show. The students were given time in class to work on their Psalm, and we planned to work on them in class as well today, and then have the students perform them either singing, reciting, dancing - whatever, it was creativity at its best - complete with prizes. <br />Unfortunately, we didn't have any students show up for class today, so the rest of the activity never happened. <br />Tomorrow we will be doing a March Madness Scripture Mastery game and passing off Daniel 2: 44-45. <br />Next week we will work on Proverbs (Monday) and Ecclesiastes on Tuesday. Wednesday and Thursday we will begin working on Isaiah.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-17396205945955236462008-03-11T07:37:00.000-07:002008-03-11T07:47:26.056-07:00Lemon bars and Job March 11, 2008Today we started out class reviewing the things we talked about yesterday. We did an abstract exercise at the beginning of class as each student came up with some type of a connection between Job and lemon bars. As we moved in to our lesson, we read about the things which Job struggled with - in one day all of his wealth as well as his children were taken from him. We looked at his response - the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. We then read in chapter 2 how he was plagued with a disease and with boils... his wife encouraged him to curse God - his response was - the Lord gives good and the Lord gives evil. <br />The students spent some time in chapter 3 looking for parallelisms - which they did a great job with. They were able to identify some of them, and then we were able to figure out what the main point or theme was of each one. <br /><br />We talked about the scripture that says that Happy is the man whom the Lord chasteneth (chapter 5 or 17?). We talked about whether or not we are happy when we are being chastened and how we can look at things from a positive perspective or not - it is our choice. <br />We saw how both Job's wife and his friends condemned him, invited him to curse, or told him he needed to repent - they didn't really support or help him..<br />Finally, we looked at our scripture mastery - Job 19. Job explains that even though worms destroy his flesh (which I believe they were literally doing), it didn't matter. Job knew that Jesus Chris is his Savior. It didn't really matter to Job what happened to him or his body in his life - even if it was painful and awful (which it was and he wished he'd never been born at one point) He KNEW that his Redeemer lives and that one day, he would be resurrected and stand before the Lord. This was the thought and the hope which got him through everything. <br /><br />After discussing this, I handed out different quotes to the students regarding adversity. Each student used their topical guide and found some scriptures which went along with their quotes. Each student then shared their quote - their related scripture, and shared their thoughts about it with the class. <br />Tomorrow we will begin Psalms - 1-24Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-84384795980531028592008-03-10T08:20:00.000-07:002008-03-10T08:36:40.900-07:00March 10, 2008Today we began the poetic section of the Old Testament. As we began class, we focused our discussion around literary terms and methods. We discussed concrete and abstract principles and their interpretations. Likewise - we discussed how parables worked, as well as their form and functions, different layers, and the varying interpretations. <br />We spent most of the day building a framework for the students to help in their understanding of the poetic books. Isaiah is one of the poetic authors, however as we build the framework for the students' understanding, they will (hopefully) be able to better understand the message found within these books. <br />One of the students struggles with the concept of being like 'salt' in the scriptures. We spent time as a class looking for symbolic interpretations and figuring out what it might mean and why it might be applicable. The students did a great job of grasping onto most of these ideas. We discussed some of the common literary symbols - light & dark, good and evil, water and life etc... <br />We also discussed the importance of poetry and song in the Old Testament culture and how these were the highest forms of praise and how repetition was used to enhance meaning. Additionally, we talked about parallelism, and how it is used poetically in the bible. Most of Isaiah's writings are parallelisms.<br />As we talked about some of the symbols, we talked about coal. Many of the students did not know that diamonds come from coal - however they are perfected after heat and pressure. Some diamonds don't make it - they crack under the pressure - some come out perfect and brilliant. However a diamond CANNOT form without the heat and pressure. One student pointed out how we are like the coal, and our trials are the heat and pressure - and how we have the potential to become something amazing and perfect if we are able to withstand and survive the trials which we face. What great insight. We discussed some of the trials which we all face... death, sickness, love, etc. The students then thought about whether or not they actually wanted their trials - and most seemed to realize that through our trials we are able to grow and to become something that we would never reach without them. Even though they are tough, they serve as tools which help us learn and grow - things we can't gain any other way. <br />We discussed how chapters 1-2 are a prologue, 3-41 are the poetry, and 42 is the epilogue. I also pointed out that Job lived in the time period of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. However, as his book is poetic - it is organized into the poetic section of the OT. <br />As we began to study the book of Job, we read about Job being perfect and upright. We saw that part of his formula was that he 'eschewed evil', and we talked about this for a couple of minutes. <br />We spent the remainder of the time discussing how the sons of God (who they were - how does one become a son of God? - through making covenants with the Lord and taking His name upon us...etc) presented themselves before the Lord. We saw that Satan was present, and we saw that Satan has power. <br /><br />I asked the students to take some time tonight to look at Job 1-19. To look at the poetry and see if they could find any poetic symbols. Tomorrow we will continue our study of the book of Job, and I'm excited for the students to begin to discover and understand these beautiful poetic passages of scripture and find the meaning and messages found therein. <br />We are working on Daniel 2:44-45 for our scripture mastery this week.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9066180676368981127.post-2292882725022230712008-03-06T10:31:00.000-08:002008-03-06T10:39:47.439-08:00March 6, 2008Today we went over the book of Esther. <br />We started out by asking the boys to list the characteristics that would be important to them in a girl. We then made a list of some of the talents they would like their spouses to have. <br />The girls also mentioned what they thought would be important. <br />We then asked the students (guys) if they were a king - how they would go about picking a new wife. We discussed the various methods suggested by the students. <br /><br />I asked each student to make a private list of some of the talents which they believe Heavenly Father has given them - specifically to them. They spent several minutes and made their lists.<br /><br />We then began to read in Esther and read about Esther and Mordecai's relationship, and then (since the guys asked - what she looked like). The students were fairly familiar with this story, and so they re-told the story. We focused on a verse in Chapter 6 which is the dialog between Mordecai and Esther. We talked about if we thought that Esther had been raised with an idea that she would save the Jews... and if she really knew what was in store for her. <br /><br />We then read a quote from Elder Maxwell which talks about how each of us is sent to our spot in the world for a reason. <br /><br />We watched a CES video depicting part of Esther's story. The video doesn't resolve the whole story, but ends as she walks into the king's presence. <br /><br />As we ended class, I asked the students to look at their list of talents, and spend some time thinking about which of those talents/blessings Heavenly Father may have given them specifically so that they could work to build His kingdom and be an instrument in His hands. <br /><br />On Monday we will be focusing on Job 1-18.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0