Jen's Thoughts

Jesus Christ

2009-12-31T07:28:00.000-08:00

But whom say ye that I am?... Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. Matt 16:15-16

This is what Latter-Day Saints believe. When we say that Jesus is the Son of God, we mean exactly that. Jesus is the eldest son of our Heavenly Father, who, as Peter declared, is a living being. Christ declared this simple truth often in the New Testament: "Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee... And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." John 17:1,3 "I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God." John 20:17 Christ knows that He is the Son of God, He knows that He has a real Father. This tender relationship is obvious to me whenever Christ addresses His father in the scriptures. His expressions are so clear and straightforward. I trust that He means exactly what he says. I believe that Jesus is the Son of God, the Only Begotten, in the flesh, of our Heavenly Father.

Heavenly Father's Plan

Before this earth was created, our Heavenly Father presented to us His plan whereby we could become like God and live with Him forever. This plan required that we come to earth, receive a body which is fashioned in the image of God's body Gen 1:27 and exercise our free will in learning to choose that which is good. Our Father knew that, although these experiences were necessary for our eternal progression, we would make mistakes that would separate us from Him, for no unclean thing can dwell in God's presence. Knowing this, He provided a Savior for us so that all who were willing, could be saved in the kingdom of God. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." John 3:16,17

We Followed Jesus

Every person on this earth is a spirit child of Heavenly Parents and lived with them before we came to earth. Our Heavenly Father's firstborn son, our eldest brother, Jesus Christ, who created this earth under the direction of His Father Heb. 1:2, was chosen to be our Savior. One third of our brothers and sisters rejected our Heavenly Father's plan and the appointment of Jesus Christ as our Savior. There was a war in heaven among the spirit children of God, not a battle of swords, but a struggle for the hearts of men. All who accepted God's plan fought against Lucifer and his followers. "And the great dragon was cast out... into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ...and they overcame [Satan] by the blood of the Lamb. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them." Rev 12:7-11

We were there! We joined in the rejoicing when the "morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy." Job 38:7 Everyone who is alive on this earth once chose to accept Christ. Because we followed Jesus there, we gained the privilege of coming to this earth to fulfill our Heavenly Father's plan for our exaltation.

And so man came to earth and were given instructions by God. Some would strive to obey, others would not, but all would fall short of perfect obedience to God's commands. The conditions of mortality separate us from God. Without a Savior, we could never again dwell the presence of our Heavenly Father.

"For it behooveth the great Creator that he suffereth himself to become subject unto man in the flesh, and die for all men, that all men might become subject unto him. For as death hath passed upon all men, to fulfil the merciful plan of the great Creator, there must needs be a power of resurrection...For behold, if the flesh should rise no more our spirits must become subject to that angel who fell from before the presence of the Eternal God...and we become...angels to a devil, to be shut out from the presence of our God...O how great the goodness of our God, who prepareth a way for our escape..."2 Ne 9: 5-10

Christ is the one appointed to rescue us. His victory over the grave means that all mankind will be resurrected. His great atoning sacrifice pays the debt to justice for all those who accept His sacrifice and repent of their sins. Because of Christ's sacrifice for us, we are able to return to the presence of our Heavenly Father pure and whole, as He is.

Not only did Christ provide the way for our redemption, he also showed us the path that we must follow in this life in order to have Eternal Life. All that He asks us to do as disciples He exemplified for us. As we humbly and willingly follow His example of pure love, of obedience, of sacrifice, and righteousness, we become more and more like Him, and more fit for the kingdom of God. Despite all of our effort, however, we are incapable of perfection on our own. It is only through Christ that we can return to the presence of our Heavenly Father.

Jesus was a God in the premortal existence. Our Father in Heaven gave Him a name above all others—the Christ...And so the preexistent God, the God of the whole earth, the Jehovah of the Old Testament, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the Lawgiver, the God of Israel, the promised Messiah was born a babe in Bethlehem.

King Benjamin prophesied of Christ’s advent and ministry in this manner:

“For behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with power, the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is from all eternity to all eternity, shall come down from heaven among the children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, and shall go forth amongst men, working mighty miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, causing the lame to walk, the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear, and curing all manner of diseases.

“And he shall cast out devils, or the evil spirits which dwell in the hearts of the children of men.

“And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and the abominations of his people.

“And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary” Mosiah 3:5–8.

The Lord testified, “I came into the world to do the will of my Father, because my Father sent me. And my Father sent me that I might be lifted up upon the cross” 3 Ne. 27:13–14. And so He was.

In Gethsemane and on Calvary, He worked out the infinite and eternal atonement. It was the greatest single act of love in recorded history. Then followed His death and resurrection.

Thus He became our Redeemer—redeeming all of us from physical death, and redeeming those of us from spiritual death who will obey the laws and ordinances of the gospel. Ezra Taft Benson

Since the world began, prophets have testified of Christ, the Apostles in His day bore witness of his divinity and mission, as do the Apostles in our day. I offer my sincere testimony as well, that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Savior of the world. I know that we can follow Him with complete confidence and He will lead us safely home.

I am grateful for Jesus Christ, for the great love that He has for us and for the willing sacrifice that He made so that I can live again eternally with Him and with my Heavenly parents. I am so grateful for Jesus' love for me, for His patience and forgiveness, for His perfect example. I know that without His influence, my life would be so very different. I could never have the peace and happiness that I enjoy now without His tender guidance and the assurance that He loves me. I know that Jesus is the Christ, my Savior, my Redeemer, and my Friend.

Perfectly Organized

2009-11-27T09:40:00.001-08:00

The organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is, in my experience, centered around helping individuals in a very personal way. Every member of the church has countless opportunities to learn Christ-like attributes because of the way that Christ has organized this church.

Lay organization

"We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof." AofF5 No one in the Church of Jesus Christ chooses where they will serve, nor do they get paid for their service 1. There is no ministerial career track. Callings to serve are made through revelation through the proper line. The qualifications for service are a willingness to serve and to live in accordance with Christ's teachings. Every worthy man is ordained to the priesthood, and every church position, from librarian to bishop to apostle, is filled by men and women who are called by God from among the body of the church. We believe that we will be given help from the Lord and are entitled to revelation from Him to assist us in the callings and responsibilities that He gives us. Every member in encouraged to develop faith in Christ, understand the gospel, and be prepared and worthy to serve wherever the Lord may need them.

Because of the lay organization, everyone in the ward has opportunities to lead and teach and minister to each other. As we serve together we learn to love and support each other in a very special way. Everyone knows that their leader or teacher is serving in a position that they didn't ask for and might find very difficult to do. Callings are given, not only for the service we can provide to others, but for our personal growth as well, and Latter-Day Saints tend to be very patient and supportive of each other. Everyone who is called to teach or lead already knows and loves those who they are called to serve. Most callings are temporary so there are opportunities to serve in many different capacities. You may serve as Bishop this year and be called as a nursery assistant the next, or maybe to teach the children, or to organize ward socials. Every calling brings with it an opportunity to learn and grow, both in skills and abilities, as well as in faith as we seek the guidance of the Lord to complete the tasks He has given us. I have often been both surprised and humbled by the responsibilities that I have been given.

Family

I think of the family as the fundamental unit of the church. This is where some of the most lasting and important work takes place. A family consists of a mother and father who nurture and teach their children to follow Christ and who receive revelation from God in regard to that responsibility. Most families include a righteous husband and father who has the priesthood authority to act in the name of God to bless others. He gives blessings of healing and comfort, performs ordinances, such as baptism, for his family members, and humbly leads his family. Every week the family meets together for Family Home Evening, to study the gospel and spend time together. My children always look forward to their turn to prepare and teach the lesson and to share their testimonies of Christ. LDS families are encouraged to pray and study the scriptures together daily, in addition to individual study and prayer.

Every household in the ward has Home Teachers assigned to look after their physical and spiritual needs. Every man has the opportunity to be a Home Teacher to help take care of other families. Each woman has a Visiting teacher assigned to support her and each has the opportunity to visit and strengthen other women in the ward. The Home- and Visiting-Teachers make monthly visits and are responsible to make sure that the needs of the people they visit are being met. These assignments often lead to close and lasting friendships.

Ward

A ward, or congregation, is made up of several households from the same geographic area. All Latter-Day Saints attend the same church and go to whichever ward is 'theirs' based on where they live. There is no competition between wards for members. A ward is a lot like a really big family. Much like a family, you don't choose your ward, you are all thrown together and you grow to love each other. Members of this church are actively engaged in lightening the burdens of others, sharing their joys and sorrows, and strengthening each other in our discipleship.

The Bishop (similar, I think, to a priest or pastor in other churches) in our ward has a full-time job in addition to his heavy responsibilities of leading the ward and caring for it's members as well as caring for his own family. He serves out of love and faith and is blessed and strengthened by God as he serves. A bishop usually serves for about five years and spends a lot of time in private interviews with members of the ward doing things like issuing callings, helping with needs, and assisting people in the repentance process; he also has many other meetings and administrative duties. One thing a bishop does not do is preach sermons. Though he occasionally addresses the ward, as do the stake leaders, most of the "talks" (as we call them) are given by the youth and adult members of the ward, with different members being invited to speak each week.

The other auxiliaries, Sunday School, Youth programs, Childrens Programs, Women's and Men's groups are led by ward members, both adults and youth, who are also called to serve. These calls come, not because of experience or ability, but because of willingness to serve the Lord wherever He asks you.

Stake

A Stake is made up of several wards. (The name is taken from Old Testament imagery in which the tent, or church, is held up by supporting stakes) It is led by people who are called from among those wards. Most Stake callings provide training, support, and assistance to the wards, as well as helping individual members with certain needs. We meet as a stake twice a year for meetings, and occasionally for socials and activities.

Church

The apostles, including the Prophet, are special witness of Jesus Christ to the all world. They are all considered prophets, seers, and revelators. They receive revelation from God today as they did anciently. They direct the church and travel throughout the world where they meet with local leaders, encourage members, and oversee the affairs of the church. They are great men who have earned the Lord's trust through lives of service to Him. They come from many backgrounds, surgeons, lawyers, businessmen, pilots. They are often retired or abandon successful careers in order to respond to this call to devote the rest of their lives to the service of the Lord. They are united in their love of the Savior and respect for each other and they work together under the direction of the Lord to direct God's work on earth. The apostles hold all of the keys of the priesthood and act under the direction of the president, or Prophet.

There are seventies (also a new Testament office) who live and serve throughout the world to assist the apostles and many other men and women who serve and lead the church at the general level.

Christ

When Christ was on the earth, He organized His church. Though the apostles that he called were killed and the authority that they held was lost from the earth, people continued to do their best to follow Christ's teachings and to preserve as much of His gospel as they could. We are blessed to live in a day when Christ's church is again on the earth in it's fullness and His will is once again revealed to man through His authorized servants. Jesus Christ actively leads this church, just as He has in days of old.

Order

The Church is directed by God through revelation every step of the way, from the direction that parents receive as they lead their families, to the direction that comes to the Prophet as he leads the church. This church could not function without it. Though every member receives revelation from God, it is all done in order. When the Lord needs something done in a ward, that revelation comes through the Bishop (who is responsible for the ward) and not me. Likewise, a bishop does not receive revelation for the stake, and when the Lord has a message for everyone, He speaks through His appointed Prophet. It is all done in order so there can be no confusion.

There is a line of authority in the church, even the Apostles report to their ward bishops regarding personal matters such as obtaining a temple recommend or performing certain ordinances. Each 'president' position (bishop, stake president, prophet, young womens, sunday school, etc...) is assisted by two counselors and they work harmoniously together as a unit, though each has different responsibilities. In this structure, I see a reflection of the organization of the Godhead (Father, Son, and Holy Ghost). The only "path" to leadership in the church is a true desire and determination to follow Christ. Through the way the church is organized, Christ has ensured that leadership in this church could only be about unselfish service to Him.

Records are kept of baptisms, ordinations to the priesthood, temple sealings, and other priesthood ordinances. A member cannot hold a calling unless their ward has their member record. This helps ensure that important information is not forgotten, or lost when someone moves to a new ward. This not only facilitates order in the church, but ensures that bishops are aware of sensitive issues and can act accordingly to assist and protect the members of their ward. 3

The organization of this church is just amazing to me! I cannot conceive of an organization more capable of caring for and assisting individuals as they strive to become like their Father in Heaven. Everything I see in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints reflects it's divine organization. I feel truly blessed to be a part of it, and am grateful for the experiences that the Lord has given me as a member of this church.

Question--How do you select a church?

2009-11-27T09:10:00.000-08:00

When I moved to California, many people were surprised that I was already part of a congregation. This was somewhat surprising to me as the LDS church is the same wherever you go. Aside from core doctrines, there seem to be many different teachings among the christian churches. I think it would be difficult to move into a new area and have to find a church that you could completely agree with and trust to teach your children.

How do you go about choosing a new church?

Happiness

2009-10-18T20:57:00.000-07:00

...Men are that they might have joy. 2 Ne 25:5

Our Heavenly Father sent us to earth with the commission to learn to be like Him. One of the ways that we can be like God is to be happy because God is happy. True happiness includes feelings of peace, joy, gratitude, and pure love. Such feelings are inspired by the Holy Ghost.

Happiness is a gift that comes from striving to live in accordance with Christ's teachings. God's promises can be trusted, and he has promised happiness to those who follow him: "Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God" Ps 146:5 "Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me." D&C 19:23 "And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever." Isa 32:17 "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." John 13:17 "he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come." D&C 59:23

There is a difference between the happiness that comes from God and the fleeting happiness that comes from following our own wills. "Ye have sought all the days of your lives for that which ye could not obtain; and ye have sought for happiness in doing iniquity, which thing is contrary to the nature of that righteousness which is in our great and Eternal Head." Hel 13:38 "Do not suppose...that ye shall be restored from sin to happiness. Behold, I say unto you, wickedness never was happiness." Alma 41:10

One of the happiest civilizations in history was found among the Nephite and Lamanite people in the ancient Americas who were converted to Christ after his resurrection and his visit among them:

"They had all things common among them; therefore there were not rich and poor, bond and free, but they were all made free, and partakers of the heavenly gift. And they were married, and given in marriage, and were blessed according to the multitude of the promises which the Lord had made unto them. And they did not walk any more after the performances and ordinances of the law of Moses; but they did walk after the commandments which they had received from their Lord and their God, continuing in fasting and prayer, and in meeting together oft both to pray and to hear the word of the Lord. And it came to pass that there was no contention among all the people, in all the land; but there were mighty miracles wrought among the disciples of Jesus. They did heal the sick, and raise the dead, and cause the lame to walk, and the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear And it came to pass that there was no contention in the land, because of the love of God which did dwell in the hearts of the people. And there were no envyings, nor strifes, nor tumults, nor whoredoms, nor lyings, nor murders, nor any manner of lasciviousness; and surely there could not be a happier people among all the people who had been created by the hand of God." 4 Ne.3,11-13,5,15-16

We can have happiness in our homes and families as we strive to live the principles that Christ taught. Lasting happiness does not come from beauty or wealth or fame. True happiness and peace result from living a Christ-like life. Though there will be moments of sadness during our mortal existence, as we seek to emulate our savior, we can feel his peace and assurance even in the most difficult of trials. The purpose of our existence is to become like God, and God wants us to be eternally happy like he is. The way to achieve true happiness is to follow the example that Christ has set for us.

"And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness." Mosiah 2:41

Why missionaries knock on your door

2009-10-12T16:46:00.000-07:00

O that I were an angel, and could have the wish of mine heart, that I might go forth and speak with the trump of God, with a voice to shake the earth, and cry repentance unto every people! Yea, I would declare unto every soul, as with the voice of thunder, repentance and the plan of redemption, that they should repent and come unto our God, that there might not be more sorrow upon all the face of the earth. Alma 29:1-2

Q: What kind of young adult leaves in the middle of college, puts everything in their life on hold, and spends their own money to go far away from home where they will have doors shut in their face almost every day for two years?

A: You guessed it: a Mormon missionary! We often call them the "Best Two Years."

A typical day starts off at 6:30 when you get up, pray, study the scriptures on your own, study with your companion, pray with your companion, exercise, eat, dress, plan, and otherwise prepare for the day. At 9:00 you leave your apartment and, if you don't have a teaching appointment , usually begin the difficult process of finding someone who wants to hear the message that you sacrificed so much to come and share. At each door you hope to find a sympathetic heart. Most often, if the door is answered at all, you are quickly sent on your way. You believe that everyone on earth is a son or daughter of God so you strive to treat everyone with dignity and respect, no matter how they respond to your invitation to learn more about Christ, but you can’t stop hoping that the person behind the next door will talk with you for a minute or two or at least offer a kind word.

So it goes: with every door there is the hope and anticipation that behind this door may be that special someone who seems to have been waiting their entire life for the message you were sent to deliver. And at almost every door, the anticipation is followed by disappointment. (Every now and again though, just to keep life exciting, you are met at the door by a shotgun or a snarling Rotweiller!) After knocking on dozens of doors you finally meet someone who invites you in. You are so excited! Even if they are not very interested in your message, you're glad that you had the chance to meet them. You respect their right to choose, but it makes you sad for all that they will be missing. You hope that though your acquaintance was brief that you have blessed their life in some small way.

When someone wants to learn more, you find that you can hardly wait to help teach them! You watch with joy as they begin to understand that they are truly God' child and that He knows them and loves them. Seeing lives change for the better is the best part of being a missionary!

After a full morning of tracting, you go back to your apartment for a quick lunch, then out you go again! In the afternoon you help pack food boxes for a local charity. You really love the people that you have been sent to work with and are anxious to serve them in any way that you can. You know though, that the best service you can give them is to bring them the glorious message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. You know that when someone understands what life is all about and has a deep and personal relationship with God, their lives will be richly blessed. You know that if they join the church of Jesus Christ that they will have the love and support of the other members of a church which is organized to bless people in a very personal and individual way. So, out you go again, prayerfully trying to find someone whose heart is open to the beautiful message that the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth. After dinner you work for a little longer then you are back to your apartment by 9:30 and in bed by 10:30.

As you lie in bed, you think about all the sacrifices that you have made to be where you are. You have saved your whole life to help finance your mission, your parents pay the rest, one of the elders (male missionaries) you know turned down a football scholarship to be here. You wanted to fulfill Christ's injunction to "Feed my sheep." John 21:16 You didn't know beforehand where in the world you would be assigned to serve. You spent two months studying the language before you had to start teaching in it (that made for a lot of funny journal entries!). You hope your personal weaknesses don't get in the way of the message. You feel so young and inexperienced. Surely this is what the Lord meant when he said that, "the fulness of my gospel [would] be proclaimed by the weak and the simple unto the ends of the world." D&C 1:23 You left behind a comfortable home and your family and friends. You miss being with them for holidays, births, weddings, funerals and all of the other family events that occur while you are serving. Most of your contact with family and friends is through the mail. As a missionary, you are not allowed to date or even flirt with someone of the opposite sex. You must have your companion with you wherever you go. You spend nearly all of your time working to help and bless others. Though there are many rules, you know they are all designed to help you be a better servant of God and more effective in helping others to learn His gospel.

At baptism you took upon yourself the name on Christ. As a missionary you strive to represent Him to everyone with whom you come into contact. You love serving a mission, but it is so hard. It helps to remember the love that inspired you serve...

"I have labored without ceasing, that I might bring souls unto repentance; that I might bring them to taste of the exceeding joy of which I did taste; that they might also be born of God, and be filled with the Holy Ghost." Alma 36:24 "And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto [Christ], how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!" D&C 18:15 But behold, my joy is full, yea, my heart is brim with joy, and I will rejoice in my God. For our brethren...were in darkness...but behold, how many of them are brought to behold the marvelous light of God! Behold, thousands of them do rejoice, and have been brought into the fold of God. And this is the blessing which hath been bestowed upon us, that we have been made instruments in the hands of God to bring about this great work. Alma 26:3,4,11

Safety in Following Modern Prophets

2009-10-05T12:59:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the world general conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I always look forward to conference weekend, and not just because I get to attend church in my pajamas (well, I usually get dressed, but I could if I wanted to) and participate from the comfort of my living room couch! I love that I get to spend the weekend listening to and pondering the words of Prophets, apostles, and other wonderful, inspired men and women. I love the beautiful and inspiring messages of about Christ and His teachings, about learning His ways and following His example.

I have been thinking lately about why we need modern prophets when God has already made so much known to us in the Bible. It's a good question. (When I talk about the prophet, I mean the man called by God to lead His church and reveal His will.) I began to think that we no longer board arks, or follow Moses out of Egypt, or look at a staff to be healed. How many of us have sold all we have to follow Christ, or fled to the mountains outside of Judea to escape destruction. Yet, these are some of the instructions that were given to people in the Bible. I think that we all understand that those things are not required of us today. They were specific instructions given to specific people or groups of people at specific times and in specific circumstances.

While the gospel has been the same from the beginning, the needs and circumstances of those who follow Christ change from time to time. We know that there will be great difficulties ahead for us in the last days, but the scriptures provide little specific instruction on how to deal with these trials. Modern prophets have been able to help us prepare for modern challenges. For example, for decades modern prophets have told us that we need to be self-reliant and free of debt. President Ezra Taft Benson declared, “The revelation to store food may be as essential to our temporal salvation today as boarding the ark was to the people in the days of Noah”1 In 1833, long before the attorney general's warning, God, through His prophet, warned the people against the use of tobacco. Generations ago, the Prophet instructed us to meet together weekly as families to strengthen each other and study the gospel. This counsel was given long before we knew of the extreme challenges that the family unit would face now and in the days ahead. The prophet also teaches and reminds us of timeless essentials, such as developing faith and studying the scriptures, that will keep us focused on Christ. Yesterday President Monson reminded us of the need to serve and bless the lives of others. Sun. Morning

We don't know exactly what our future challenges will be but through modern and living prophets, the Lord tells us how we can be prepared. Those who follow the prophet need not be confused by various religious teachings or by modern social philosophies. I take great comfort in knowing that the church can easily adapt to the modern world without losing track of those things which are essential. God has already revealed in scripture much of what we need to know for our spiritual and temporal salvation, but He has not left us alone. God still loves us and he still gives us direction that is specific to our time so that we can know to do those things that will bless us and lead us to Him. God has given us a prophet on earth today and has promised that He will not allow the prophet to lead us astray.

Individually, we can each turn to God for counsel regarding our individual needs and responsibilities and for confirmation of prophetic counsel, collectively, we look to a living prophet who receives a constant flow of revelation from God to guide the work of God on the earth. We are blessed to have a prophet to strengthen our faith in Christ and guide us in those paths which will bring us to him and bless us during our mortal sojourn. I am so grateful that God has sent a prophet in my day and for the many blessings I have seen in my life as a result of following his inspired counsel.

Sabbath Observance

2009-09-21T08:54:00.000-07:00

"Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy." Ex. 20:8

As Latter-Day Saints, we believe that the Sabbath is a holy day commemorating the sacrifice that the Lord made for us. We believe that it is a day given to rest from our labors and to worship God.

The Lord instructed the children of Israel, "Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you [a perpetual covenant] throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you." Ex 31:13,16 Though the stringent regulations governing the Sabbath were done away when Christ fulfilled the Law of Moses, the Sabbath covenant between God and his people is still in effect. Where the law of Moses was very physical in nature, the law of Christ challenges us to focus on the giver of the law and the spirit in which it is given. Honoring the Sabbath is still important, but our Sabbath observances now must spring from our love of God. Our level of devotion is both revealed and influenced by the activities which we choose to pursue on this holy day. We have the responsibility to determine individually how we will honor the Sabbath, which activities will draw us closer to God and which will distract our attention from Him.

The basic principle of the Sabbath is that the day be devoted to God and his worship and service, and rest from our daily cares, not spent in pursuit of our own pleasures. Though there is no list of what to do and what not to do on Sunday, there are some generally observed practices among the Latter-Day Saints. We believe that church attendance and partaking of the sacrament (bread and water) are essential parts of Sabbath observance. Other good Sabbath activities might include rest from daily cares, scripture study, worship, visiting those who are in need of comfort or companionship, naps, uplifting interactions with family or friends, gospel study and teaching, and other things which contribute to our spiritual well-being or to the work of the Lord. There are many good activities which honor the Sabbath covenant and help us draw closer to God and increase our love for Him.

We try to avoid on Sunday those activities which serve our own pleasure or prevent others from observing the Sabbath, such as working, shopping, eating out, recreation, parties or other social events, sporting events, elaborate meals, or unnecessary housework or repairs. Of course some work is necessary, but even those who must work, such as those who provide essential services, like medical care, do their best to observe the spirit of the Sabbath. Again, there is counsel, but no checklist so every LDS home will have some unique patterns and traditions. The essence is this: we believe that the activities we choose should flow from a love of God and should help turn our hearts toward Him.

The Sabbath day is a blessing. I am grateful for this one day every week that I can rest from the pressures and worries and distractions of the world and focus more on those things that really matter.

“Our observance or nonobservance of the Sabbath is an unerring measure of our attitude toward the Lord personally and toward his suffering in Gethsemane, his death on the cross, and his resurrection from the dead. It is a sign of whether we are Christians in very deed, or whether our conversion is so shallow that commemoration of his atoning sacrifice means little or nothing to us” 1

Question--Sabbath

2009-09-21T08:06:00.000-07:00

I am interested to know how the Sabbath is observed in other Christian religions. (I previously assumed that Sabbath observance was not considered important by other Christian faiths, but I think that I may have been mistaken.)

The Fall of Adam

2009-08-31T10:26:00.000-07:00

When I tell my toddler twins "no," sometimes they stop what they're doing because they understand the meaning of that word. Sometimes though, they just keep doing whatever it is that I asked them not to do. Though it is disobedient, it is not an act of rebellion. At 1 1/2 years old, they don't have an understanding of the world sufficient to be able to rebel. They know the meaning of my words and they are beginning to understand consequences ( like "hot") but they don't understand right and wrong. Because they are human and subject to the needs, emotions, and discomforts of a mortal body, children do things that are not right. Even so, they are innocent because of their lack of understanding. Young children cannot sin; they cannot even understand right and wrong. It is our job as parents to teach them right from wrong, and though they are subject to the natural consequences of their actions (like getting hurt when they jump off the couch), they are not held accountable for their wrongdoings until they are old enough to understand the difference between doing a 'wrong thing' and doing something that is 'wrong' (a concept that requires abstract thinking abilities).

The Fall

When Adam and Eve were first placed in the Garden of Eden they were innocent as children. Like children, they did not understand the abstract concept of right and wrong. God told them not to partake of the fruit of the tree of Knowledge, warning them that it would bring them death. Though they understood this warning and transgressed the law by eating the fruit, they did so as innocent children. Eating of the tree was what gave them knowledge that there was right and wrong. Before they partook of the tree and gained knowledge of what was good and what was evil, how could they have chosen to do one or the other?

In the Garden of Eden, they were capable of living forever and had the privilege of living in God's presence. As a natural consequence of eating of the fruit, their bodies became mortal and corruptible. They became subject to the trials and difficulties of mortal life and to the needs and discomforts of a mortal body. They became capable of sin. They were no longer able to be in God's presence.

"Wherefore, it came to pass that the devil tempted Adam, and he partook of the forbidden fruit and transgressed the commandment, wherein he became subject to the will of the devil, because he yielded unto temptation. Wherefore, I, the Lord God, caused that he should be cast out from the Garden of Eden, from my presence, because of his transgression, wherein he became spiritually dead...But, behold, I say unto you that I, the Lord God, gave unto Adam and unto his seed, that they should not die as to the temporal death, until I, the Lord God, should send forth angels to declare unto them repentance and redemption, through faith on the name of mine Only Begotten Son." D&C 29:40-42 And the days of the children of men were prolonged, according to the will of God, that they might repent while in the flesh; wherefore, their state became a state of probation, and their time was lengthened, according to the commandments which the Lord God gave unto the children of men. For he gave commandment that all men must repent; for he showed unto all men that they were lost, because of the transgression of their parents. 2 Ne. 2:21 For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father. Mosiah 3:19 But behold, I say unto you, that little children are redeemed from the foundation of the world through mine Only Begotten. D&C 29:46

God knew that the Fall would happen and that men would thereby become subject to physical and spiritual death (separation from God). Before it even occurred, God, with infinite love and mercy, provided a way for man to overcome these effects of the fall. Christ's atonement makes it possible for us to be cleansed from sin and to be resurrected. Thus, through Christ, we may return, spirit and body bound in a perfect and incorruptible whole, to live in the presence of our Father.

The Fruit

Some of my friends have expressed discomfort in knowing how to teach their children about the Fall. There need be none. In 1913 James E. Talmage declared "I take this occasion to raise my voice against the false interpretation of scripture, which has been adopted by [some] and is referred to in a hushed and half-secret way, that the fall of man consisted in some offense against the laws of chastity and virtue...What right have we to turn the scriptures from their proper sense and meaning? ...The fall was a natural process, resulting through the incorporation into the bodies of our first parents of the things that came from food unfit, through the violation of the command of God regarding what they should eat. Don't go around whispering that the fall consisted in the mother of the race losing her chastity and her virtue. It is not true; the human race is not born of fornication. These bodies that are given unto us are given in the way that God has provided. [Unchastity] was not introduced by Adam. It was not committed by Eve. Let it not be said that the patriarch of the race...and his equally royal consort, were guilty of any such foul offense...Our first parents were pure and noble, and when we pass behind the veil we shall perhaps learn something of their high estate, more than we know now. But be it known that they were pure; they were noble. It is true that they disobeyed the law of God, in eating things they were told not to eat; but who amongst you can rise up and condemn?" Talmage

Children

In bringing about the conditions of mortality, Adam and Eve gained the ability to keep another of God's commandments that was given to them in the Garden of Eden: "And now, behold, if Adam had not transgressed he would not have fallen, but he would have remained in the garden of Eden. And all things which were created must have remained in the same state in which they were after they were created; and they must have remained forever, and had no end. And they would have had no children; wherefore they would have remained in a state of innocence, having no joy, for they knew no misery; doing no good, for they knew no sin." 2 Ne. 2:22-23 In bringing mortality and death into the world, they also brought life: as husband and wife, they could have children. God had commanded them to Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth. Gen. 1:28 Because Adam and Eve took on mortality, you and I can come to earth, receive a body, and gain necessary experiences that we could have no other way. As children of God, we rejoice in the opportunity that we have to pass through mortality and we honor Adam and Eve as our first parents, we honor their courage and their goodness. They rejoiced in the redemption that they were provided and they taught their children about the Savior that was provided for them. We rejoice in that same redemption and we, too, have the privilege and blessing of bearing children and of teaching our children about the Savior and the goodness and mercy of God. Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy. 2 Ne. 2:25

The Fall of Adam was necessary to bring about mortality and mortality is necessary for our progression. I am grateful for the opportunity that I have to come to earth and to experience mortality. I am grateful for Adam and Eve and for the blessings that I enjoy because of them. I am grateful for the Plan of Redemption, for my Savior who enables me to return to my Father in Heaven and live again in his presence.

Joseph Smith

2009-08-24T07:13:00.000-07:00

When Joseph Smith was a young boy of 14 years, he felt a desire to join God's church, but was confused by the contention and strife that existed between various religious sects and their enthusiastic converts. "In the midst of this war of words and tumult of opinions, I often said to myself: What is to be done? Who of all these parties are right...which is it, and how shall I know it? While I was laboring under the extreme difficulties caused by the contests of these parties of religionists, I was one day reading the Epistle of James, first chapter and fifth verse, which reads: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again, knowing that if any person needed wisdom from God, I did; for how to act I did not know, and unless I could get more wisdom than I then had, I would never know...At length I came to the conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and confusion, or else I must do as James directs, that is, ask of God."

"I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me....When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—"This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!" Joseph inquired and was told to, "join none of [the Churches] for they were all wrong, "they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof.” Joseph Smith History v.5-20

Though he was very young, he suffered much persecution for telling of his experience. He said, "I have thought since, that I felt much like Paul, when he made his defense before King Agrippa... I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true; and while they were persecuting me, reviling me, and speaking all manner of evil against me falsely for so saying, I was led to say in my heart: Why persecute me for telling the truth? I have actually seen a vision; and who am I that I can withstand God, or why does the world think to make me deny what I have actually seen? For I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it, neither dared I do it; at least I knew that by so doing I would offend God, and come under condemnation." v.24-25

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God...1John 4 :1-2 Some have dismissed Joseph's vision, claiming that it could not be from God because what Joseph was taught by Christ was contrary to some of the philosophies popular in the Christian churches of the day. Though Satan attempted to prevent what was about to happen, v.16,17 Joseph called upon God for deliverance and it was God himself who answered; and when God is present, the devil cannot be. When the vision commenced, before anything else was communicated, The Father testified of Jesus Christ with these glorious words of introduction, "This is My Beloved Son."v.17

Thus commenced the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ in it's fullness. It would be seven years until Joseph Smith was allowed to begin translation of the Book of Mormon, a scriptural record made by ancient American prophets, and three more until he was instructed to organize the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The restoration is marked by many wonderful events and was directed by heavenly messengers. Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdry received the Aaronic priesthood (which includes the authority to baptize) from John the Baptist and were ordained by Peter, James, and John to the Melchizedek priesthood which they held. God continued to teach, counsel, correct, and inspire Joseph throughout his life. Thus, Joseph Smith, as did the prophets of old, had all the authority and divine direction necessary for him to direct the work of the Lord and to lead God's church.

Joseph Smith was not a perfect man, God accepts us all as we are and leads us to be better, even prophets. Joseph says of himself, "being of very tender years, and persecuted by those who ought to have been my friends and to have treated me kindly, and if they supposed me to be deluded to have endeavored in a proper and affectionate manner to have reclaimed me... I frequently fell into many foolish errors, and displayed the weakness of youth, and the foibles of human nature; which, I am sorry to say, led me into divers temptations, offensive in the sight of God. In making this confession, no one need suppose me guilty of any great or malignant sins. A disposition to commit such was never in my nature. But I was guilty of levity, and sometimes associated with jovial company, etc., not consistent with that character which ought to be maintained by one who was called of God as I had been. But this will not seem very strange to any one who recollects my youth, and is acquainted with my native cheery temperament." v.28 Many times in his life he was admonished by the Lord for his errors, and when this correction came, Joseph never failed to humble himself and to strive to align his actions with the direction he received. Though he was not perfect, he devoted his life to the service of God and his fellow man. Anyone who has studied his life knows that Joseph Smith was a good, loving, honest, hard-working, and respectable man. "We see no need to protect him and his reputation from himself, even if that were possible." Ronald K. Esplin

From the time his vision was known, persecution was constant: he was often imprisoned for long periods on spurious charges (though never actually convicted of a crime), he was beaten, tarred and feathered, slandered, and finally murdered for his testimony of Jesus Christ and the work he was commissioned to do. One of my favorite stories occurs during one such imprisonment:

During one of the cold, tedious nights, the men lay on the floor until past midnight, unable to sleep because the guards were boasting of their recent attacks on the Saints, including acts of robbery, rape, and murder. Elder Parley P. Pratt recounted: “I had listened till I became so disgusted, shocked, horrified, and so filled with the spirit of indignant justice that I could scarcely refrain from rising upon my feet and rebuking the guards; but had said nothing to Joseph, or any one else, although I lay next to him and knew he was awake. On a sudden he arose to his feet, and spoke in a voice of thunder, or as the roaring lion, uttering, as near as I can recollect, the following words: “ ‘SILENCE. … In the name of Jesus Christ I rebuke you, and command you to be still; I will not live another minute and hear such language. Cease such talk, or you or I die THIS INSTANT!’ “He ceased to speak. He stood erect in terrible majesty. Chained, and without a weapon; calm, unruffled and dignified as an angel, he looked upon the quailing guards, whose weapons were lowered or dropped to the ground; whose knees smote together, and who, shrinking into a corner, or crouching at his feet, begged his pardon, and remained quiet till a change of guards. 1

Though Joseph was often miraculously delivered from his enemies, he knew when the work he had been called to do was complete. “When Joseph went to Carthage to deliver himself up to the pretended requirements of the law, two or three days previous to his assassination, he said: ‘I am going like a lamb to the slaughter; but I am calm as a summer’s morning; I have a conscience void of offense towards God, and towards all men. I shall die innocent, and it shall yet be said of me—he was murdered in cold blood.’ D&C 135:6 Some of his friends came to join him in the jail and Elder Taylor sang the hymn, "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief." While imprisoned, they were attacked by a large mob. Joseph and his brother Hyrum were shot and killed. He spent his life doing the work that God gave him to do and he sealed his testimony of that work with his blood. He died a martyr for the cause of Christ. "Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it." D&C 135:3

In 1823, the young Joseph Smith was informed by the angel Moroni that "God had a work for me to do; and that my name should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken of among all people." 2 It is a rather astounding prophesy considering that he was a poor, unlearned farm boy of only 17 years of age, but there is no question that this prophesy has been very literally fulfilled. If it is true that Joseph Smith was indeed called of God, then his message would be the most important one delivered since Christ taught the gospel and proclaimed victory over death and hell. I believe that Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God. There are those who believe to the contrary. Many simply pass on the misleading information that they have been taught. Some seem driven by a desire to discredit him and the great work that he accomplished. I believe that this is too important a matter to trust to the opinion of any person or group. I would submit that it is only God in whom we can put all our trust. I absolutely believe that when we humbly and earnestly seek God's help, he will help us to recognize what is true. Our emotions may deceive us, our intellect can lead us astray, our friends may mislead us, but God never will. Amidst all the confusion, there is someone we can go to for a reliable answer. You must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right...D&C 9:8 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. James1:5

Joseph Smith--for further study

2009-08-24T07:10:00.000-07:00

Every story has two sides. None of us, I trust, would be comfortable judging a controversial story based on the testimony of only one interested party. To be fair in your examination, you must listen to both sides of the story, or at the least, to someone who hasn't taken sides.

If you would like to learn more about Joseph Smith, here are some resources that may be helpful:

Wikipedia has a reputation for accuracy. It is one of my favorite resources when I have a question about something.

FAIR This site examines many of the stories told about Joseph Smith (as well as other topics) from a scholarly LDS perspective (though not sponsored by the church), such as the 1826 hearing. It is easily accessible and well researched. A great place to go if you want the "other side" of the story.

Joseph Smith Papers: Almost since the very beginning of this latter-day work, the Lord commanded the church to keep a record, a charge which has been faithfully heeded. So much information exists that it is almost overwhelming. The recent Joseph Smith Papers project will make easily available to the public "everything of a written nature Joseph Smith generated, or over which he had oversight." Marlin K. Jensen “This initiative will offer a very deep pool of primary sources for researchers to dip into. It will help lift the overall standard of scholarship as there will be greater self and peer accountability in future writings that will be produced dealing with early Mormon history,” he said. Ronald K.Esplin “I believe the volumes will become the seminal resource for scholarly work about Joseph Smith and the early years of the Church.” Marlin K. Jensen "Yale University Professor Harry S. Stout, a member of the Papers’ national advisory board, said that the endorsement by the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (a division of the National Archives) conveys the Commission’s conclusion that the staff [includes LDS and non-LDS] and procedures of The Joseph Smith Papers meet the NHPRC’s rigorous scholarly standards for transcription and annotation and that the edition will be accurate and professional.” newsroom

Intimacy

2009-08-17T13:50:00.000-07:00

Latter-Day Saints sincerely desire to be like our Father in Heaven and we believe that there is much that He wants us to do and learn while we are here on earth. God has promised us that the families we establish here on earth can last forever. Our belief in the purpose of life and the eternal nature of families greatly influences our understanding of sexuality.

Latter-Day Saints believe in absolute sexual purity, both before marriage and after. "Physical intimacy between husband and wife is beautiful and sacred. It is ordained of God for the creation of children and for the expression of love between husband and wife." For the Strength of Youth Sexual intimacy is a powerful force for good when it is expressed the way God intended it to be-- in a loving marriage relationship. This great power that we have been given by God is to be used with reverence and respect, and is only appropriately expressed within marriage. Sexual sins are very serious because they defile that power.

Appropriate sexual intimacy can be an expression of love, but it is not love. I feel like there is a lot of confusion in our society today on that point. True love in it's highest form is the pure love of Christ. True love is not selfish, but looks to the well-being of the other. "Eros teaches us wrong things...about the great attribute of love... To misunderstand the true nature of love is to misunderstand life. To be unchaste, in the name of love, is to destroy something precious in order to celebrate its existence." Maxwell "See that ye bridle all your passions, that ye may be filled with love." Alma 38:12

Sexual expression outside of marriage is inappropriate and destructive to both body and spirit, damaging to society, and offensive to God. "In God’s sight, sexual sins are extremely serious because they defile the power God has given us to create life."1 Sexual sin is next to murder in the severity in which the Lord regards it. Alma 39:5 (Just a note that victims of sexual crimes are innocent of wrongdoing.) Latter-Day Saints avoid all sexual contact outside of marriage, including necking, petting, and intimate contact, as well as pornography, pre-marital and extra-marital sexual relations, degrading or disrespectful sexual relationships (even in marriage), masturbation, sexual perversion, homosexual activities, and any other behavior which perverts the divine purpose of the sexual powers that we have been given. Sexual intimacy is intended to unite a married couple and to provide bodies so that others of God's children may come to earth and have the experiences necessary for their exaltation. The sexual standards that God has set for his people are clear; Latter-Day Saints have no question what God expects of them.

Latter-Day Saint youth follow these teachings, not out of fear of pregnancy or disease, and not only out of obedience to God's commandments, but because they love God and understand who they are and what life is about. They know that they are literally children of God. They know that their bodies are sacred and will be theirs through eternity. They value the companionship of the Holy Ghost, and strive to behave themselves in ways that will allow him to remain with them. They know that marriage has a high and holy purpose and want their own marriage and family to last forever. They want to be completely faithful to their eternal companion (spouse). They have learned to trust God and know that the things that he asks of them are for their own good and will bring them lasting joy and peace. They know that God's work and glory is "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." Moses 1:39 and they want honor God by fulfilling His purposes for them.

Sexual purity is not just an ideal accomplished by a select few. It is the way of life among Latter-Day Saints-- youth and adults alike. No one winks at immoral behavior. One of the things I loved about dating at BYU was that I was surrounded by roughly 20,000 other young single students (plus several thousand others who were already married) who all truly believed in chastity. We were free to have fun. When I went out with someone new, I might have wondered whether he would be so bold as to attempt a good-night kiss after a first date, but that was all. Many times I wished for a wonderful young man to kiss me good-night and was somewhat disappointed, but felt all the more honored to be around him. We had a lot of fun in group dates: going to dances, watching silly movies, playing games, going on picnics. It was all good, clean fun. The real pressure was knowing that we were all hoping to find that "special someone!" Things get a little harder once you are engaged, but even then, the rules don't change, sexual contact is reserved exclusively for marriage. Of course, there are some who make mistakes, and repentance is available to all who sincerely desire to follow Christ; but when you are both committed to living righteously and accustomed to giving higher priority to eternal desires than to immediate desires, sexual purity is a natural standard. That is the lifestyle at BYU and wherever the saints of God dwell. We live this way because we love God and we respect ourselves. We know we are God's children.

I am grateful for the trust and love that exist between my husband and I because of our commitment to the teachings that God has given us. It gives me such peace to know that when the time comes for my children to marry, there will be other young people who are also pure and clean with whom they can join to form a family that will last forever. I wish everyone could know the joy and peace that comes from living the standards that the Lord has set for his children.

"The sweetest feelings of life, the most generous and satisfying impulses of the human heart, find expression in a marriage that stands pure and unsullied above the evil of the world." Gordon B. Hinkley

A parent's guide for teaching children about marriage and intimacy

Question--Intimacy

2009-08-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

How/what do you teach your children about sexual intimacy?

Families are Forever

2009-08-10T13:42:00.001-07:00

My mom's dad is an amazing man. He was a good, upright man, even in his pre-church sailor days, and he had so many adventures has and such a wonderful sense of humor. He never lacked for a great story to tell. A few weeks ago he was outside throwing rocks at the neighbor's annoying peacocks when he misstepped and fell. He came through surgery, but never really recovered. I'm sure he's pleased that he left us such an amusing story to tell about his departure. I attended my grandfather's funeral last week. It was a lovely service and we're all going to miss him a lot. We cried in spite of his forbidding us to and of course we smiled and laughed at the wonderful and amusing memories that we shared. We have all cried liberally at the fact that he is no longer around. I bawled when I spoke to him on the phone during the last few days of his life when he couldn't talk back or even open his eyes. It's hard to know that I can't see him for a really long time, but I take great comfort in knowing that I will see him again; that I am forever a part of his family.

When our time on earth is through, the loving ties that bind husband and wife, parents and children need not be dissolved. I can think of no sadder phrase than, "Till death do us part," and I know of few who truly believe it. Most people who I have talked to, if they believe in an existence after this life, believe that their family relationships will continue. I believe that this is because the Spirit teaches us that these cherished relationships are meant to continue forever.

Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. Malachi 4:5-6 Elijah was the last prophet before the time of Christ to hold the priesthood power to bind in heaven what is bound on earth Matt 16:19, and he has returned as was prophesied. In 1836, Elijah appeared in the temple and restored the sealing power of the priesthood of God to the earth. Parents and children can be united forever as a families through the sealing ordinance performed in God's temples by those who hold this priesthood authority. Families sealed together by the Holy Spirit, will remain intact and receive the fullness of joy which the Father has promised to all the faithful. Marriage is required for both men and women to receive the highest blessings that God has in store for his children. To those who lacked the opportunity during their lifetime, President Howard W. Hunter assures us that "no blessing, including that of eternal marriage and an eternal family, will be denied to any worthy individual."

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ...Rom. 8:16-17 Our families are modeled after God's family. I am a child of God. On earth I have a father and mother. I have a father in heaven, who is the literal father of my spirit. I also have a mother there. That I am part of a heavenly family is one of the most beautiful truths that I know. That my family here is patterned after theirs inspires me to conduct my family life after their perfect example. That my family can last into eternity makes me want to devote my all to this great commission. The LDS belief that as God's children we can someday be like Him, that our families can be like His family, that the work that He has given us here prepares us for the blessings that He has in store for us in eternity, is the most sublime, the most inspiring of anything that I can comprehend. I am so grateful for this knowledge and for the blessing of being part of an eternal family.

Baptism

2009-07-20T07:41:00.001-07:00

Latter-Day Saints believe that baptism is a covenant between man and God. It is the way a person becomes a member of Christ's church. Baptism is necessary for remission of sins and for entry into the celestial kingdom. To be baptized, a person must have faith in Christ and repent of their sins and be at least 8 years of age. When we are baptized, we promise to serve God and keep his commandments and He promises that His Spirit will always be with us. To complete the baptism, the gift of the Holy Ghost is conferred on the new member. The gate by which ye should enter is repentance and baptism by water; and then cometh a remission of your sins by fire and by the Holy Ghost. 2 Ne 31:17 We believe that baptism must be performed by immersion by someone who has authority from God to act in His name. Baptism by immersion teaches us through its symbolism: Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Rom. 6:4 Most men in the LDS Church have the authority to baptize. I was baptized by my father and my older children have been baptized by theirs. An LDS baptism is a very reverent and beautiful spiritual experience. I am always pleased when my children choose to follow Christ's example and to be baptized as He was.

Though baptism is necessary for salvation, baptism alone does not guarantee salvation. Nephi explains to those who enter into the covenant of baptism, "ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save. Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life. And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. " 2 Ne. 31:19-21

Some question why we believe that baptism is necessary, citing Christ's promise of paradise to the thief on the cross. When the thief died, he went, as the spirits of all men do, to the Spirit World to await his resurrection. After His death, Christ went to the spirit world and there declared His victory over death and organized the preaching of His gospel to the spirits in Hell. After this work was done, Christ was resurrected; only then did he ascend to Heaven and to His Father.

Jesus Christ was baptized to "fulfill all righteousness". He had no sins, yet it was still important for him to be baptized, not only to set an example for us to follow, but because it is a commandment that all must be baptized. To remain sinless, Christ complied with every commandment He was given by His Father. Christ was baptized by immersion by John the Baptist, who had the necessary priesthood authority to perform this ordinance. After Christ was baptized, the Holy Ghost came in the promised sign of the dove and the voice of Chris's Father was heard from Heaven declaring, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." Matt 3:17

Baptism for the Dead

One of the most exciting doctrines in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is that, though baptism is required for everyone who is capable of sin, those who did not have the opportunity for baptism are not lost. In the temple, a person can receive the ordinance of baptism in behalf of a specific person who has passed on. The person for whom the baptism is performed has the opportunity in the spirit world of accepting or rejecting this saving ordinance. Paul cited this practice in the early church as a defense for the reality of the resurrection, "Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?" (I know that there are other interpretations of this scripture, but I believe this is what it means) I am grateful that God has provided a way for every willing individual to comply with His law of baptism and to receive the ordinances that He has declared are necessary for us.

Little Children

Around 400 A.D. some of Christ's followers were disputing whether little children needed baptism. The prophet Mormon gave this response in a letter written to his son: Wherefore, little children are whole, for they are not capable of committing sin; wherefore the curse of Adam is taken from them in [Christ], that it hath no power over them...little children need no repentance, neither baptism...But little children are alive in Christ, even from the foundation of the world; if not so, God is a partial God, and also a changeable God, and a respecter to persons; for how many little children have died without baptism! Wherefore, if little children could not be saved without baptism, these must have gone to an endless hell...awful is the wickedness to suppose that God saveth one child because of baptism, and the other must perish because he hath no baptism.... Little children cannot repent; wherefore, it is awful wickedness to deny the pure mercies of God unto them, for they are all alive in him because of his mercy. And he that saith that little children need baptism denieth the mercies of Christ, and setteth at naught the atonement of him and the power of his redemption. Moroni 8:8-20 I think that this understanding of Christ's atonement is one of the most beautiful doctrines taught in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

I am grateful for the opportunity that we have been given to come to Christ and to be baptized and cleansed of our sins. I know that God loves each of His children and has provided a way for all to partake of his goodness.

For repentance is unto them that are under condemnation and under the curse of a broken law. And the first fruits of repentance is baptism; and baptism cometh by faith unto the fulfilling the commandments; and the fulfilling the commandments bringeth remission of sins; And the remission of sins bringeth meekness, and lowliness of heart; and because of meekness and lowliness of heart cometh the visitation of the Holy Ghost, which Comforter filleth with hope and perfect love, which love endureth by diligence unto prayer, until the end shall come, when all the saints shall dwell with God. Moroni 8:24-26

Question--Repentance

2009-07-20T07:10:00.000-07:00

In the LDS Church, repentance is generally a private experience. Every day as we pray we have the opportunity to seek God's forgiveness for our shortcomings and ask for the Lord's help in overcoming our weaknesses. We also seek to make restitution as far as it is in our power. Only very serious sins, such as sexual misconduct, require counsel with a priesthood leader to assist in the repentance process.

I am curious how other faiths view repentance. In your view, how does a person properly repent? I have had the impression from some recent reading that some may view it as a one-time event. I know that some believe that confession is necessary. Must every little thing be confessed, and to whom?

Faith and Obedience

2009-07-13T06:29:00.000-07:00

The God of heaven, who created this earth and placed his children upon it, gave unto them a law whereby they might be exalted and saved in a kingdom of glory. For ... all things are governed by law throughout the whole universe. Whatever law anyone keeps, he is preserved by that law, and he receives whatever reward that law guarantees unto him D&C 130:20–21. It is the will of God that all his children should obey the highest law, that they may receive the highest glory that is ordained for all immortal beings. But God has given all his children an agency, to choose what law they will keep. No man will receive a celestial glory unless he abides a celestial law. Wilford Woodruff

God does not disregard his own laws and justice requires that a debt be paid for laws that are broken. Because as mortals we are incapable of the perfection that God's law requires and without His mercy, all mankind would be lost. By the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight... For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Rom 3:20, 23 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. James 2:10 And men are instructed sufficiently that they know good from evil. And the law is given unto men. And by the law no flesh is justified; or, by the law men are cut off. 2 Ne. 2:5 Paul continues, however, with the good news which is that we are, "justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." Rom 3:24 The way is prepared from the fall of man, and salvation is free. Behold, [the Holy Messiah] offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit; and unto none else can the ends of the law be answered...and they that believe in him shall be saved. 2 Ne. 2:2,7,9 Alma explains that, "mercy can satisfy the demands of justice, and encircles them [who shall believe on his name] in the arms of safety, while he that exercises no faith unto repentance is exposed to the whole law of the demands of justice; therefore only unto him that has faith unto repentance is brought about the great and eternal plan of redemption." Alma 34:16 Paul goes on to explain in verse 31 that faith does not make the law void, but establishes it. Christ does not abolish the law. He upholds God's law and provides a way that we, through submitting ourselves to him, may be justified before the law. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Rom. 6:23

We do not truly have faith if we defy God's laws. Nor does obedience to God's laws bring his promised blessings if we act without faith. Without faith, works are dead, for nothing we do can save us; without obedience, faith is also dead, for we cannot be justified before a law that we have not tried to live. James explains very clearly that, "by works a man is justified, and not by faith only." James 2:24The two are inextricably tied together. To try to separate them is, I feel, to deny the power of Christ to justify us before the law. It would seem, in effect, to destroy God's law and make his commandments void; or to destroy Christ's mercy and leave us helpless before the demands of divine justice.

The teachings and practices of the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the ages have been designed to keep people focused on Christ and the salvation He offers. This was as true in the time of Adam, as in the time of Moses, as true in the days of Abraham as it was in the days of Christ, and as true in times past as it is today. The doctrines and ordinances that God has established are designed to bring people to Christ. This central purpose has never changed; the essential principles of faith, repentance, baptism and reception of the Holy Ghost have been common to every era in which there has been someone on earth who is authorized to teach the gospel.

The Israelites were given a law of carnal commandments and performances in addition to the basic requirements of the gospel to help keep their attention focused on Christ. Before Christ's coming, his followers in ancient America observed the law of Moses and understood its purpose:

And now I say unto you that it was expedient that there should be a law given to the children of Israel, yea, even a very strict law; for they were ... slow to remember the Lord their God; Therefore there was a law given them... to keep them in remembrance of God and their duty towards him. But behold, I say unto you, that all these things were types of things to come. And now... they did not all understand the law; and this because of the hardness of their hearts; for they understood not that there could not any man be saved except it were through the redemption of God. Mosiah 13:29-32 And behold, this is the whole meaning of the law, every whit pointing to that great and last sacrifice; and that great and last sacrifice will be the Son of God, yea, infinite and eternal. And thus he shall bring salvation to all those who shall believe on his name; this being the intent of this last sacrifice, to bring about the bowels of mercy, which overpowereth justice, and bringeth about means unto men that they may have faith unto repentance. Alma 34:14,15 For, for this end was the law given; wherefore the law hath become dead unto us, and we are made alive in Christ because of our faith; yet we keep the law because of the commandments. And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins. 2 Ne. 25:25-26 And the Lord God hath sent his holy prophets among all the children of men, to declare these things to every kindred, nation, and tongue, that thereby whosoever should believe that Christ should come, the same might receive remission of their sins, and rejoice with exceedingly great joy, even as though he had already come among them. And moreover, I say unto you, that there shall be no other name given nor any other way nor means whereby salvation can come unto the children of men, only in and through the name of Christ, the Lord Omnipotent. Mosiah 3:13,17 Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah. 2 Ne. 2:8

When Christ fulfilled purposes of the law of Moses, He put an end to the performances associated with that particular law. The fundamental laws of His gospel did not change. Faith in Jesus Christ, sincere repentance of our sins, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost are the constant, basic requirements for entry into the kingdom of God. They have been taught by the prophets of God in every era. They set us on the course to eternal life. God promises the blessings of eternity to all who faithfully serve him. We cannot do it alone. Whatever our capacities, whatever our inadequacies, Christ has the power to make us equal to the task that he has set before us. Each of God's commandments is given for our benefit and blessing. It doesn't matter what we can or cannot do, what matters is that we have faith in Christ and trust Him enough to try.

Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; My joy is full, yea, my heart is brim with joy, and I will rejoice in my God. Alma 26:11,12

Why God lets hard things happen

2009-07-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

Many people have wondered how God can allow so much evil and sorrow to exist in the world. Terrible things happen, even to very good people. If God is loving and all-powerful, some wonder, why does he not stop those determined to do evil from causing so much pain and destruction to innocent men, women, and children? Why does he not heal every disease and stay every storm? Because of the Latter-Day Saint view on the purpose of life, we have a unique perspective on why God permits this kind of suffering. Whether a challenge is sent by God or whether it is merely permitted by Him as the result of laws that He has established, there is a purpose in the trials that we must go through, and He has not left us to navigate the difficulties of life alone. As we learn through our trials to trust in God, we come to understand that He loves us and is faithful to us, even if He does not immediately relieve our suffering. If we trust in God, He will turn everything we experience to our benefit. "All things work together for good to them that love God." Rom. 8:28

If we could see things as God does, we would know that, compared to eternity, our time on this earth is very short. We lived with God before we came to this earth and will return to him after our experience here is finished. The brief time of this life is given to us for our benefit and the things which we experience here are necessary for our growth. "If we looked at mortality as the whole of existence, then pain, sorrow, failure, and short life would be calamity. But if we look upon life as an eternal thing stretching far into the premortal past and on into the eternal post-death future, then all happenings may be put in proper perspective." Kimball "No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. It ministers to our education, to the development of such qualities as patience, faith, fortitude and humility. All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable, more worthy to be called the children of God … and it is through sorrow and suffering, toil and tribulation, that we gain the education that we come here to acquire and which will make us more like our Father and Mother in heaven. …” Whitney

Before we came to this earth, we lived in Heaven with God. There was a great war fought in Heaven over the agency of man: "Satan...came before me, saying—Behold, here am I, send me, I will be thy son, and I will redeem all mankind, that one soul shall not be lost...wherefore give me thine honor. But, behold, my Beloved Son, which was my Beloved and Chosen from the beginning, said unto me—Father, thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever. Wherefore, because that Satan rebelled against me, and sought to destroy the agency of man, which I, the Lord God, had given him, and also, that I should give unto him mine own power; by the power of mine Only Begotten, I caused that he should be cast down; And he became Satan, yea, even the devil, the father of all lies, to deceive and to blind men, and to lead them captive at his will, even as many as would not hearken unto my voice." Moses 4:1-4 For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so...righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad...the Lord God gave unto man that he should act for himself. Wherefore, man could not act for himself save it should be that he was enticed by the one or the other. 2 Ne. 2:11,16 And it must needs be that the devil should tempt the children of men, or they could not be agents unto themselves; D&C 36:39

Lucifer intended to force all men to do the will of the Father. God knew that we could not develop if we were not free to choose and if we never faced a trial of our faith. Christ's desire was to carry out the plan of His Father, not in forcing compliance to God's laws, but in providing a way for men to overcome, through his grace, the ill effects of the misuse of that great gift of free agency.

God respects our right to choose our own course. In the premortal world He taught us his ways, then sent us to earth where we would be free to choose whether we would follow Him. In order that we would be truly free, we were born into this earth without a recollection of our previous experiences, but the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil. Moroni 7:16 The Light of Christ is an influence which encourages people to do good and to seek for God. It prepares them to receive the Holy Ghost. All things which are good cometh of God; and that which is evil cometh of the devil; for the devil is an enemy unto God, and fighteth against him continually, and inviteth and enticeth to sin, and to do that which is evil continually. But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God. Moroni 7:12-13

God set into motion the laws that govern our universe and gave to man his agency. He does not break his own laws or force the mind of man. Men who wish to do evil are not prevented, for doing so would destroy their agency. God encourages all men to do good but does not compel them. No one could choose good if he were not also free to choose evil; he would not be truly free if his evil intentions were continually thwarted to protect the innocent. That God does not protect us from all sorrow, does not mean that He doesn't care. And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities...that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities. Alma 7:12 He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows Isaiah 53:4 God offers solace to those who are injured, and the blessings of eternity to those who will turn to Him. God cares deeply about us and truly grieves at our sorrows. He understands our suffering perfectly. He has lived in mortality and has taken upon himself the pains of every man. He has the power to heal every grieving heart.

Though God knows that we must pass through trials to learn the things that we came to earth to learn and He allows us to experience the growth that comes from hardship, He often protects us from harm and sorrow. If we focus only on the trials of life, we neglect to notice the miracles that happen. Every day people are healed from disease and are preserved from harm. Every day people change for the better, disasters are quietly averted, and broken hearts are mended. God's miracles are all around us, it is up to us whether we choose to see them. I recall, as a child, enjoying a pleasant walk with my sister in another neighborhood, when a truck passed by and parked a short distance ahead of us. I had a very powerful feeling that I must not pass that truck. When I altered my course and turned into the driveway of a nearby home, the truck drove away. I believe that the Holy Ghost protected my sister and me that day. I have had other similar experiences that have convinced me of the concern that God feels for us. I know that the Lord actively assists us in avoiding both big and little sorrows in our lives if we turn to Him. This is one of the ways that He teaches us faith. I know when God does not intervene, that there is a reason for it and that He will give me the strength and support that I need to overcome.

"The entire message of the New Testament breathes a spirit of awakening to the human soul. Shadows of despair are dispelled by rays of hope, sorrow yields to joy, and the feeling of being lost in the crowd of life vanishes with the certain knowledge that our Heavenly Father is mindful of each of us. The Savior provided assurance of this truth when He taught that even a sparrow shall not fall to the ground unnoticed by our Father. He then concluded the beautiful thought by saying, “Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Monson

If thou art called to pass through tribulation; if thou art in perils among false brethren; if thou art in perils among robbers; if thou art in perils by land or by sea; If thou art accused with all manner of false accusations; if thine enemies fall upon thee; if they tear thee from the society of thy father and mother and brethren and sisters; and if with a drawn sword thine enemies tear thee from the bosom of thy wife, and of thine offspring...and thou be dragged to prison, and thine enemies prowl around thee like wolves for the blood of the lamb; And if thou shouldst be cast into the pit, or into the hands of murderers, and the sentence of death passed upon thee; if thou be cast into the deep; if the billowing surge conspire against thee; if fierce winds become thine enemy; if the heavens gather blackness, and all the elements combine to hedge up the way; and above all, if the very jaws of hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good. The Son of Man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than he? Therefore, hold on thy way... Thy days are known, and thy years shall not be numbered less; therefore, fear not what man can do, for God shall be with you forever and ever. D&C 122:5-9

America

2009-06-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

"America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.” 1

Latter-Day Saints are encouraged to be good citizens in whichever country we are found. "We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law." 12 Though Latter-Day Saints are encouraged to be politically involved, the LDS church is very careful never to imply support for any particular candidate. We are expected to participate appropriately in government processes and to support and defend our freedoms, "to stand fast in this liberty wherewith ye have been made free."Mosiah23:13

We are taught to diligently search for men who are honest wise and good to lead our country; and we are taught to pray for our elected leaders and treat them with dignity and respect (even the ones we didn't vote for).

I am sure we all have considered how blessed we are to live in America, especially as there is so much of war and turmoil about us. Latter-Day Saints believe that America has a special history and destiny. God led Columbus to America. 1 Ne.13 God “established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom [He] raised up" and "delivered [the country] by the power of God out of the hands of all other nations." D&C 101:80 1 Ne.13:19 It is a land of liberty where men are free to live the teachings of Jesus Christ and to proclaim his truths, and we are promised that it will remain so. In a time when many fear the future, I take great comfort in the words of the Lord concerning our great nation:

But behold...the Gentiles shall be blessed upon the land. And this land shall be a land of liberty unto the Gentiles, and there shall be no kings upon the land, who shall raise up unto the Gentiles. And I will fortify this land against all other nations. It is a choice land... above all other lands. 2 Ne. 10:10-12,19

Around 600 B.C Lehi prophesied regarding America: that there shall none come into this land save they shall be brought by the hand of the Lord. Wherefore, this land is consecrated unto him whom he shall bring. And if it so be that they shall serve him according to the commandments which he hath given, it shall be a land of liberty unto them; wherefore, they shall never be brought down into captivity; if so, it shall be because of iniquity; for if iniquity shall abound cursed shall be the land for their sakes, but unto the righteous it shall be blessed forever. 2Ne.1:6-7

The Lord told the brother of Jared (who was brought here with his family from the tower of Babel), that whoso should possess this land of promise, from that time henceforth and forever, should serve him, the true and only God... and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall serve God.... For behold, this is a land which is choice above all other lands... And it is not until the fulness of iniquity among the children of the land, that they are swept off. Behold, this is a choice land, and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ. Ether 2:8-10,12

It is no accident that the United States is the great nation that it is, nor that it was founded by people who loved God. America is the bastion of religious freedom. It is here that the New Jerusalem, will be established. God gave us this land and our freedoms in it. We have the duty to live righteously and do what is in our power to protect our country and to create and sustain good laws. We have the assurance that as we do this we will have God on our side.

This is a land that is blessed by God and through which all nations of the earth will be blessed. America should not only be an example of freedom and liberty to the world, but an example of goodness. There are many forces trying to destroy liberty and turn the people away from that which is good, but there is no need to fear, "for they that be with us are more than they that be with them." 2 Kings 6:16 God will be with us. God is the author of our liberty.

We are blessed to live in America!

The Book of Mormon

2009-06-22T13:31:00.000-07:00

The Lord declared that in the last days, "many of the Gentiles shall say: ... A Bible, we have got a Bible, and we need no more Bible.' Have ye obtained a Bible save it were by the Jews? Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth? Wherefore murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And when the two nations shall run together the testimony of the two nations shall run together also. And I do this that I may prove unto many that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and that I speak forth my words according to mine own pleasure. And because that I have spoken one word ye need not suppose that I cannot speak another; for my work is not yet finished; neither shall it be until the end of man, neither from that time henceforth and forever. Wherefore, because that ye have a Bible ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that I have not caused more to be written. For I command all men, both in the east and in the west, and in the north, and in the south, and in the islands of the sea, that they shall write the words which I speak unto them." 2 Ne. 29:3,6-11 And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. John 21:25

From the days of Adam, Christ has taught his gospel to his followers and they have kept records. It is because of these records that we have the Bible, which is a record kept by the Jews up through the time of Christ and his apostles. Many people in many lands have kept records of their dealings with God and their experiences living his gospel; however, outside of the works contained in the Bible, few of these other writings are available to us. One is. It is sometimes called the Stick of Joseph. Ezek 37:16-20

Christ's followers in the ancient Americas kept such a record. In about 400 A. D. the prophet Mormon made an abridgment of these records (hence the name Book of Mormon), engraving it on thin sheets of gold. His son, Moroni, completed the work and was instructed to seal up the record to come forth in the Lord's time.

It is this same Moroni who was sent by God to inform Joseph Smith of the existence and location of the record. (We believe that angels are men, children of God, --either pre-mortal or post-mortal spirits, or resurrected men-- who are sent from the presence of God to to earth to teach and bless mortal men.) Joseph Smith was taught by Moroni and, after a few years, allowed to take and translate the record. Besides Joseph, several other men saw and handled the plates and bore testimony of their existence. Three men were shown the plates by an angel of God and were instructed to bear witness that were translated by the gift and power of God. Though they became disaffected with the church and some never returned, they never denied that an angel showed them the plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated.

The Bible is a record of Christ's followers in Jerusalem. The Book of Mormon is a record of Christ's followers in America. The Bible is the word of God and testifies that Jesus is the Christ. The Book of Mormon establishes the truth of the Bible and adds another witness of the divinity and mission of Jesus Christ. For behold, [the Book of Mormon] is written for the intent that ye may believe [the Bible]. Mormon 7:9

The Book of Mormon tells the story of a Jewish prophet and his family who were warned to leave Jerusalem before its destruction c.600 B.C. and were brought to the Americas. It describes the religious and secular history of the great civilization they founded here. It contains quotes and references to the scriptures that were brought from Jerusalem, particularly Isaiah, and preserves the teachings of the prophets in the new world. It tells of Christ's visit to these 'other sheep' after his resurrection. The story is also told of a family spared from the curse at the time of the tower of Babel and brought by God to this land, and of another group that was brought here, led by Mulek, the surviving son of the Old Testament king Zedekiah.

The Book of Mormon teaches that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. It teaches the purposes of the law of Moses, which was observed by the Book of Mormon peoples before the coming of Christ; and it exhorts everyone who reads it to look to Christ for salvation. It agrees with and reinforces Bible teachings and presents the gospel of Jesus Christ with great clarity. The Book of Mormon is full of many wonderful, inspiring, and faith-promoting stories and teachings. There are so many great stories, it is hard to choose a favorite. One of the most touching stories is of Christ's visit to the Nephite people (3 Ne. 11) after his resurrection and following the great destruction that occurred at the time of his death (3Ne. 8). It is a beautiful account of Christ's experiences teaching a people who loved and accepted him. You can feel the great love that He had for them.

Moroni knew that the Book of Mormon would come forth in a time when it would be very difficult for people to believe it. As a prophet of God, he issued this promise: And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things. Moroni 10:4-5

I believe that the Book of Mormon is truly the word of God, but you should not believe it because I say it is, nor should you disbelieve it because someone else tells you it isn't. If you really want to know whether or not it is from God, read it, ask God, and know for yourself. God cannot lie and he will not mislead you.

The Godhead

2009-06-14T22:00:00.000-07:00

Latter-Day Saints agree with most other Christians with regard to what the bible says about God. We believe that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one God, infinite and eternal, without end. D&C 20:28 This is what the Bible declares. This is what Mormons believe.

The Bible teaches that the members of the godhead are both distinct and united. Latter-Day Saints believe that God the Father and Jesus Christ are embodied individuals and the Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit and that the three are perfectly united in purpose. That the three members of the Godhead are distinct individuals is clearly taught in the Bible, what is not so clearly explained is the way in which they are united, so I fault no one for disagreeing with me. Whether you believe that Jesus Christ is an individual member of a perfectly united Godhead, or part of the 'Triune' God, I accept that we speak of the same person with the same scripturally-defined attributes, and that He has the power to save all who have faith in Him.

God, the Father, is literally the father of the spirits of all men. We believe, as did the ancient prophets and apostles, that He has an immortal, perfect, glorified body after which our own bodies are patterned. God's perfect body is a necessary part of who He is and he would be limited without one. God's voice has been heard by man and He has been seen on a few occasions. Some of the most compelling understanding that we have for who the Father is comes from the teachings of Jesus Christ regarding his Father as recorded in the New Testament. I cannot read Christ's prayers and doubt for a moment that he was sincerely speaking to another person, his beloved Father.

Jesus Christ is literally the son of God and is perfectly united with Him. He was the firstborn of Heavenly Fathers children in the Spirit World, and is the only begotten of the Father in the flesh, born to a virgin mother. He is in the express image of his Father in both physical appearance and divine attributes and is the only perfect man ever to walk the earth. God...hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; Heb1:1-3 He is the Jehovah of the Old Testament and the Messiah of the New. Christ was the first to regain his physical body through resurrection and effected the resurrection of all mankind. It is Christ who atoned for the sins of the world and made possible our return to the presence of God. All those who accept his teachings and come to the Father in his name are adopted by Christ. And now, because of the covenant which ye have made ye shall be called the children of Christ, his sons, and his daughters; for behold, this day he hath spiritually begotten you; for ye say that your hearts are changed through faith on his name; therefore, ye are born of him and have become his sons and his daughters. Mosiah 5:7 It is only through Jesus Christ that we can be saved in the kingdom of God.

The Holy Ghost. The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us. D&C 130:22 The Holy Ghost testifies of the Father and the Son, he teaches and reveals truth to men, and he sanctifies those who repent and are baptized.

"To acknowledge the scriptural evidence that otherwise perfectly united members of the Godhead are nevertheless separate and distinct beings is not to be guilty of polytheism; it is, rather, part of the great revelation Jesus came to deliver concerning the nature of divine beings. Perhaps the Apostle Paul said it best: “Christ Jesus . . . being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God." Plillipians 2:6Holland

When Christ prayed for those who believe in him, he asked, "That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me." John 17:20-23 Christ never intended his followers to be absorbed into the essence of God, rather that we should be perfectly united together with him and the Father in the same way that He is perfectly united with His Father. So perfect is their unity that Christ can speak authoritatively as if he were His Father. His purposes are in line with His Father's and his actions are those of His Father. That is the example that Christ set for us and the standard that we are to strive to attain. We learn through the power of the Holy Ghost, to align our thoughts and actions with God's.

"Latter-day Saints do not accept the Christ that emerges from centuries of debates and councils and creeds. Over the years that followed the death and resurrection of the Lord, Christians sought to “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 1:3). We believe that the epistles of Paul, Peter, Jude and John suggest that the apostasy or falling away of the first-century Christian church was well underway by the close of the first century. With the deaths of the apostles and the loss of the priesthood, the institutional power to perform and oversee saving sacrament or ordinances, learn the mind of God and interpret scripture was no longer on earth. To be sure, there were noble men and women throughout the earth during the centuries that followed, religious persons of good will, learned men who sought to hold the church together and to preserve holy writ. But we believe that these acted without prophetic authority." Millet Harper’s Bible Dictionary records that “the formal doctrine of the Trinity as it was defined by the great church councils of the fourth and fifth centuries is not to be found in the [New Testament].”²

The Latter-Day Saint concept of God is based on scripture and direct revelation from God through Prophets and Apostles. When I read the New Testament, it amazes me how clearly Christ teaches about the godhead. His teachings about who He is are beautiful, clear, and simple--Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Savior of the world.

And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of [Christ], this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father— That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God. Joseph Smith

Question--Why does Christ talk to God?

2009-06-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

In the Bible, Christ often speaks to His Father. To me these conversations seem very sincere, and Christ's need for support from God seems very real. I do not comprehend it from a triune perspective--It seems confusing that Christ makes a point of talking to His Father if they are part of the same essence. What do you believe we gain by it?

Health

2009-06-08T11:00:00.000-07:00

I was with a bunch of stylish LDS women recently and the restaurant 'Bagels and Brew' was brought up as a nice place to eat. One of the women remarked, "Why do they call it Bagels and Brew? It's like," and her voice deepened as she imitated an imaginary customer, "'I'll have a beer with that bagel.' I don't get it." We all paused for just a second to reflect on her comment then had a good laugh as we realized the mistake. I still laugh for joy every time I think about it. It's wonderful to associate with women who are so far removed from the world that they can't even pull of a convincing bluff!

Many people outside the church, though, are puzzled or even bothered by our adherence to the very basic law of health that Latter-Day Saints live by, most of which is outlined in the Word of Wisdom, which was given by revelation to Joseph Smith (again in answer to a question) in 1833, and which, the Lord says, is adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest of all saints. D&C 89: 3

God wants us to learn to take care of the body that he gave us, it will be ours for the rest of eternity. It is not only for the blessing of better health, however, that he has given us some guidelines. We learn many other things from following the Word of Wisdom such as wisdom, obedience to God, self control, and the importance of taking care of ourselves. These are lessons that will bless our lives forever.

Some are worried that the laws that Latter-Day Saints live by are not all found in the Bible, after all Christ turned the water into wine. I believe that some of God's instructions are based on what he understands our needs to be in a given time and place. For example, God's people were once required to abstain from pork. The Lord introduced the Word of Wisdom, by stating, "In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation." D&C 89: 4

Do's and Don'ts

Do
Eat fruits, veggies, grains, herbs, eat meat sparingly, "all these to be used with prudence and thanksgiving... with judgment, not to excess" D&C 89:11 59:20

Don't
Use Alcohol, Coffee, Tea, Tobbaco

The promises
Health, wisdom, knowledge, ability to "run and not be weary, and...walk and not faint. And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them." D&C 89: 18-21

We are also counseled to cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated. D&C 88:124

I think this nearly 200 year old diet sounds quite modern. Long before science understood the physical benefits of such a lifestyle, God revealed to his saints a basic outline of how to care for our bodies. The gospel of Jesus Christ also includes other beliefs and practices that are conducive to good health, such as forgiveness, fasting, chastity, education, hard work, moderation and gratitude. Obedience to God's commandments always bring spiritual blessings, but there are real and often significant physical benefits as well.

These requirements in the Word of Wisdom are very basic and, for the most part, we choose how we will follow them. For example, in the spirit of avoiding harmful and addictive substances, a large percentage of Latter-day Saints avoid caffeinated beverages, though they are not prohibited. There are also those who avoid all infusions (herbal teas) in addition to Teas (Camellia sinensis). This is sometimes confusing to those who don't understand the basic principle of self-government in the church (that we are taught correct principles and are left to govern ourselves with relatively few restrictions). Latter-day Saints believe that we are responsible for the decisions we make in counsel with the Lord through prayer. Different people with different needs and tendencies may come to different conclusions. So, though tobacco and alcohol are clearly prohibited, there is no formula for what a "sparing" amount of meat is and no one tells you what time to go to bed. There is also plenty of room for scientific discoveries within the framework the Lord has provided us.

What happens to you when you drink a cup of coffee or wine? Probably not much more than a little chemical effect. You might become addicted--I know those whose lives have been controlled by coffee and we all know the terrible effects that alcohol can have, but most often little lasting harm is done. What would happen if I drank a little coffee or a sip of wine? I don't think that a little is likely to harm me physically, but I have made a promise to obey God and he has asked me to avoid these substances. For me then, breaking that covenant would be a sin. I would also lose some respect for myself; and my ability to avoid these things in the future would be weakened as well as my ability to make wise decisions about other things. Repentance is always available to cleanse us from sin and Christ helps us to overcome our weaknesses, but we cannot escape the natural consequences of our actions. (Though I can be forgiven for drinking, I still have the hangover.) It is better to avoid mistakes than to fix them.

Obedience to these principles results in greater freedom, not less. By abstaining from smoking, for example, I never risk becoming addicted to tobacco and yet I retain the ability to choose whether I want to take it. If I become addicted to tobacco, it is very hard to escape, even if I really want to--I lose the ability to choose. By refraining from dangerous substances and taking care of my health, I retain the power to make decisions and to choose the attending consequences, whether positive or negative.

I am very grateful that God has given us some guidance with regard to our health. I cannot express how blessed I feel to have been protected from so many of the dangers and diseases that are so common today, and for the peace of mind that I enjoy. God gives us commandments for our benefit, he wants us to be truly happy. I know that obedience to his counsels will bring us true and lasting happiness and peace.

Yea, all things which come of the earth, in the season thereof, are made for the benefit and the use of man, both to please the eye and to gladden the heart; Yea, for food and for raiment, for taste and for smell, to strengthen the body and to enliven the soul. And it pleaseth God that he hath given all these things unto man; for unto this end were they made... D&C 59:18-20

Question--Justice in Heaven

2009-06-08T10:26:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to understand how God's justice works in the 'one heaven one hell' belief structure.

It is my understanding that Trinitarians place in the same place in Heaven all who meet the requirements (accepted Christ, received baptism...I think it varies somewhat among churches) to go to Heaven. Is this correct?

Do you also believe then that the person who devoted his whole heart and everything he had to serving God would receive the same reward as one who met the requirement/s but gave relatively little thought to God or his fellow man? If so, is this just? I believe that mercy makes up for lack of ability when one has righteous desires. Does mercy also make up for the lack of desire thereby making everyone in heaven equal? (We'll talk about works later, I promise.)

Who goes to Heaven?

2009-05-31T23:00:00.000-07:00

Could you gaze into heaven five minutes, you would know more than you would by reading all that ever was written on the subject. Joseph Smith Jr.

Virgil, in Dante's Inferno lamented: I’d have you know, before you go ahead,
they did not sin; and yet, though they have merits,
that’s not enough, because they lacked baptism,
the portal of the faith that you embrace.
And if they lived before Christianity,
they did not worship God in fitting ways;
and of such spirits I myself am one.
For these defects, and for no other evil,
we now are lost and punished just with this:
we have no hope and yet we live in longing.⁶

The greater part of mankind has not had the opportunity to hear any accurate information about Christ or even hear about him at all, let alone accept and follow him, yet without Christ a man cannot be saved. Theologians over the ages have pondered this seeming injustice and come to various conclusions, some believe that God preappoints men to either salvation or damnation, others conclude that the loss of so many souls is somehow just in a way that only God can comprehend.2 There are even many who would exclude faithful followers of Christ from heaven on some technicality: lacked appropriate baptism, wrong concept of God, not really 'saved' to begin with... If all but a few of the millions who have lived on earth are forever lost, can God be considered just or merciful?

LDS Concept of Heaven

I love the LDS concept of Heaven, for it has room for everyone. Nearly all of God's children (by which I mean everyone) will have a place in the Kingdom of God. According to God's justice, we are rewarded according to our compliance to the laws of God and our desires for righteousness. D&C 137:7-9 Because of his mercy, he has provided a way for all who wish to do so to meet his requirements. The dead in the spirit world have the opportunity to be taught the gospel of Jesus Christ; and the work done in the temple on their behalf, such as baptism and the sealing of marriages, gives them the opportunity to receive necessary ordinances if they desire them. The only people who will not go to heaven and will dwell with Satan are those who have had the Holy Ghost, known God, and openly defied him. “[This] sin against the Holy Ghost requires such knowledge that it is manifestly impossible for the rank and file to commit such a sin.” Miracle of Forgiveness, p. 123.

We believe that when you die, you go to the Spirit World, which is a temporary place and is divided into paradise and hell. Latter-Day Saints believe that Heaven, the final dwelling place of man, comes after Christ's second coming and the Resurrection.

Paul states: “There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead” 1 Cor. 15:40–42.

"Paul understood, as undoubtedly did many of his fellow Saints, these vital truths that have been veiled in parabolic language. Heaven is not a single place or one single condition. It is as diverse as men’s behavior patterns are different, for men will be judged according to their deeds done in the flesh Rom. 2:6–8; Rev. 20:12–13." Spencer W. Kimball

In the LDS perspective, Heaven is divided into three kingdoms of glory, the the Celestial, the Terresterial, and the Telestial. This revelation was received as Joseph Smith pondered the meaning of John 5:29.

Telestial Kingdom The glory of the telestial kingdom "surpasses all understanding" and is compared to the glory of the stars. It is the glory that will be inherited by those who "received not the gospel of Christ, neither the testimony of Jesus," who suffer for their own sins in hell (because they rejected Christ's sufferings for them) and who "shall not be redeemed from the devil until the last resurrection, until the Lord shall have finished his work." After their suffering and resurrection, they will receive a telestial glory in heaven where they will be ministered to by the Holy Spirit.

Terresterial Kingdom In the Terresterial Kingdom, which surpasses the Telestial in glory, will be those who did not accept Christ and his gospel during their lifetime, but did accept him in the spirit world. "These are they who are honorable men of the earth, who were blinded by the craftiness of men." It also includes those who were "not valiant in the testimony of Jesus." Those who receive a terrestrtial glory will "receive of the presence of the Son, but not of the fullness of the Father." D&C 76

Celestial Kingdom "Those who have believed in Christ, who have forsaken the world, who have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide and been willing to lay their all on the altar, those who have kept the commandments of God—they shall go to a celestial kingdom whose glory is as the sun." Kimball

Those who inherit the Celestial Kingdom, which is the most glorious of all, will dwell forever in the presence of God and Jesus Christ. It will include those who have been faithful to Christ during their lives and have received baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost, who have diligently tried to live his gospel and keep his commandments and who have become perfect through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. It also includes those who would have received the gospel during their lifetimes if they had had the opportunity, as well as children who died before they reached the years of accountability.

The Celestial Kingdom is divided into three degrees. To enter the highest of these, you must be married and your marriage must be sealed by the Spirit, neither man nor woman can be there alone. There will be an opportunity for marriage for those who did not have it, for "no blessing, including that of eternal marriage and an eternal family, will be denied to any worthy individual." Howard W. Hunter Those who receive this glory will be able to have children and will live with their families in God's presence forever.

I am so grateful for the understanding I have of Heaven. I can conceive of no plan more just than this one which permits each person to choose his eternal destiny by his desires and actions, nor one more merciful than this which provides an opportunity for all to make that choice. I am grateful for Christ's atoning sacrifice which enables us to repent of our mistakes and overcome the world. God loves all of us. Even the most wicked of men are children of God and loved dearly by him. He does not compel us by force, but calls to us with infinite love to come to him and receive all that we will of that which he has prepared for us.

Purpose of Life

2009-05-24T20:45:00.000-07:00

Men are that they might have joy. 2 Ne. 2:25

Most of us have at some point wondered about the purpose of our existence. Latter-Day Saints, believe that our life on earth is part of our Heavenly Father's plan for our eternal happiness, the kind of happiness that God has.

Latter-Day Saints believe that we are literal sons and daughters of God and we lived with him before we came to this earth. While there, Heavenly Father presented to us his plan for us to come to earth, gain a body, and experience the lessons of mortality. We knew that we would be separated from God for a time and would be subject to trials and suffering and that some would not choose to obey God, but we also trusted that this experience would be necessary for us to become like our Father in Heaven and live again in his presence.

I think it is in many ways like going away to college where, in addition to the subject matter, you learn profound life lessons that you could not really understand until you were on your own. It is in experiencing life and being truly responsible for your own choices that all those things your parents tried to teach you begin to really make sense.

We believe that our mortal lives are relatively short compared to eternity and we have many things to do and learn while we are here. Just for fun, I'm going to present a brief overview of a few of the purposes of mortality in the form of a 'to do' list.

To Do:

Get a Body. Obtaining a physical body is one of the great purposes of mortality. We'll have this body for the rest of eternity. I've been asked how this is possible, since we believe that we are not resurrected immediately after we die. (see post "Victory over Death") I don't know the exact process, but I do know that I have very few cells remaining of those that I was born with, yet it is still the same body.
Learn to Control our Physical Bodies. This is a hard one. Our physical desires do not always reflect what is truly best for us. Just like learning to walk, we will fall down several times before we master it. We are blessed to have this time given to us where we can learn to choose the good and repent when we make mistakes.
Learn Faith. But without faith it is impossible to please [God]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Heb. 11:6
Be Baptized. We are told repeatedly in scripture that baptism is necessary for entrance into the kingdom of God. (A way has been provided for those who did not have the opportunity for baptism during their lifetimes. See post on Temples)
Receive the Holy Ghost. His companionship and purifying power are necesary for us to be able to navigate the difficulties of this life and return to our Heavenly Father's presence.
Get Married. Our relationships are meant to last forever. Marriage is another ordinance which must be done during this life. "In the resurrection there will be no marrying nor giving in marriage; for all questions of marital status must be settled before that time." James E. Talmadge This does not mean that those who did not have the opportunity for eternal marriage in this life will be forever single. President Howard W. Hunter said that "no blessing, including that of eternal marriage and an eternal family, will be denied to any worthy individual."
Learn to Obey God. We all chose God's way before we came to earth. Now that we are no longer in his presence we have the opportunity to practice doing what we learned about while we were with him.
Repent. In our present state, we are separated from God. We must choose to repent of the mistakes that we make to be made clean through the Atonement of Christ. No unclean thing can dwell in the presence of God.
Develop Christlike Love. Charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him. Moroni 7:47
Die. It's a prerequisite to being resurrected with a perfect, immortal, incorruptible body.

In summary, we are here to prepare for eternity. The more diligent we are in striving to turn our hearts to the things that God wants for us to accomplish here, the more prepared we will be to receive the blessings he has in store for us.

The ancient prophet, Alma, explains beautifully why what we choose in this life is so important:
31 Yea, I would that ye would come forth and harden not your hearts any longer; for behold, now is the time and the day of your salvation; and therefore, if ye will repent and harden not your hearts, immediately shall the great plan of redemption be brought about unto you.

32 For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors.

33 And now...as ye have had so many witnesses, therefore, I beseech of you that ye do not procrastinate the day of your repentance until the end; for after this day of life, which is given us to prepare for eternity, behold, if we do not improve our time while in this life, then cometh the night of darkness wherein there can be no labor performed.

34 Ye cannot say, when ye are brought to that awful crisis, that I will repent, that I will return to my God. Nay, ye cannot say this; for that same spirit which doth possess your bodies at the time that ye go out of this life, that same spirit will have power to possess your body in that eternal world.Alma 34:31-34

Boyd K. Packer (an apostle) drew an analogy that I think will be helpful in understanding the LDS perspective on life.

"Happily Ever After"

The plan of redemption, with its three divisions, might be likened to a grand three-act play. Act I is entitled “Premortal Life.” The scriptures describe it as our First Estate. (See Jude 1:6; Abr. 3:26-28) Act II, from birth to the time of resurrection, the “Second Estate.” And Act III, “Life After Death or Eternal Life.”
In mortality, we are like one who enters a theater just as the curtain goes up on the second act. We have missed Act I. The production has many plots and sub-plots that interweave, making it difficult to figure out who relates to whom and what relates to what, who are the heros and who are the villains. It is further complicated because you are not just a spectator; you are a member of the cast, on stage, in the middle of it all!
As part of the eternal plan, the memory of our premortal life, Act I, is covered with a veil. Since you enter mortality at the beginning of Act II with no recollection of Act I, it is little wonder that it is difficult to understand what is going on.
That loss of memory gives us a clean start. It is ideal for the test; it secures our individual agency, and leaves us free to make choices. Many of them must be made on faith alone. Even so, we carry with us some whispered knowledge of our premortal life and our status as offspring of immortal parents.
You were born in innocence, for “every spirit of man was innocent in the beginning” (D&C 93:33). And you have an inborn sense of right and wrong, for the scriptures tell us in the Book of Mormon, we “are instructed sufficiently that [we] know good from evil.” (2 Nephi 2:5)
We progress or we are held back in life within the limits imposed by spiritual and natural law which govern all the universe. We sometimes wonder, if the plan really is the great plan of happiness, why must we struggle to find fulness of it in mortal life?
If you expect to find only ease and peace and bliss during Act II, you surely will be frustrated. You will understand little of what is going on and why it is permitted to be as they are.
Remember this! The line “And they all lived happily ever after” is never written into the second act. That Line belongs in the third act when the mysteries are solved and everything is put right. The Apostle was right when he said, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.” (1 Corinthians 15:19.)
Until you have a broad perspective of the eternal nature of this great drama, you won’t make much sense out of the inequities in life. Some are born with so little and others with so much, some in poverty, with handicaps, with pain, with suffering, premature death even of innocent children. There are the brutal, unforgiving forces of nature and the brutality of man to man. We’ve seen a lot of that recently.
Do not suppose that God willfully causes that, which for His own purposes, he permits. When you know the plan and purpose of it all, even these things will manifest a loving Father in Heaven.

I know that with God's help we can accomplish the purposes that we were sent here to accomplish. I am grateful for the opportunities and the many blessings that I enjoy in this life and I trust in God's promises after this life is over. I know that God loves us and that he understands the struggles we face in this life. Our view here is limited, but God's is not. He knows what is best for us. I take great comfort in the words of the Lord to a suffering prophet, "know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good." D&C 122:7

Plural Marriage

2009-05-18T11:30:00.000-07:00

Plural marriage is not really a big issue for me, though I understand why it is for so many. I don't understand it entirely, or why God at times commissions the practice, but I do trust him and am confident that I will, at some point, understand those things that I do not yet fully comprehend.

The church does not now practice or in any way condone the current practice of polygamy. The church practiced polygamy during the mid- to late 1800's because they were directed by God to do so. Elder Oaks, apostle and prior state supreme court justice, said,"As to those people who are still practicing polygamy, I have immense sympathy for them. But I don’t see any common ground of doctrine between them and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints because revelation is the bedrock of our faith, we follow the prophet, and sexual morality is very important to us. They don’t follow the prophet, and they engage in relationships that we deem today [to be immoral as] the Lord has defined the law, and as the law has defined criminal conduct."

Augustine said,"Again, Jacob the son of Isaac is charged with having committed a great crime because he had four wives. But here there is no ground for a criminal accusation: for a plurality of wives was no crime when it was the custom; and it is a crime now, because it is no longer the custom. There are sins against nature, and sins against custom, and sins against the laws. In which, then, of these senses did Jacob sin in having a plurality of wives? As regards nature, he used the women not for sensual gratification, but for the procreation of children. For custom, this was the common practice at that time in those countries. And for the laws, no prohibition existed. The only reason of its being a crime now to do this, is because custom and the [secular] laws forbid it."

The Lord said, "David also received many wives and concubines, and also Solomon and Moses my servants, as also many others of my servants, from the beginning of creation until this time; and in nothing did they sin save in those things which they received not of me." D&C 132:38

Many have attempted to present the early saints who practiced polygamy in every sort of unfavorable light, but they are unjustified in doing so (in light of the large amount of historical documentation available). It was actually extremely difficult for the members of the church to accept plural marriage at the time it was introduced . They were good Christians and Victorian in background and moral character. "When instructed to practice plural marriage by Joseph, Brigham [Young] recalled that it “was the first time in my life that I had desired the grave." But the faithful men and women of the church did embrace the practice, not because they blindly followed their leaders, but because each of them took their concerns to God and asked in faith whether it was truly He who required if of them. read their stories

The plural marriage practiced by the saints was done with respect and propriety. Women and men were equally committed to the practice. It was available only to those who were living uprightly and the men took seriously the responsibility of providing for their families. "Contrary to popular nineteenth-century notions about polygamy, the Mormon harem, dominated by lascivious males with hyperactive libidos, did not exist. The image of unlimited lust was largely the creation of travelers to Salt Lake City more interested in titillating audiences back home than in accurately portraying plural marriage. Newspaper representatives and public figures visited the city in droves seeking headlines for their eastern audiences. Mormon plural marriage, dedicated to propagating the species righteously and dispassionately, proved to be a rather drab lifestyle compared to the imaginative tales of polygamy, dripping with sensationalism, demanded by a scandal-hungry eastern media market." VanWagoner

Public sentiment was, unsurprisingly, against the practice of plural marriage. Politics happened and laws were passed prohibiting polygamy. God leads men by persuasion, not control, and respects man's right to govern himself. Though the church contested the new laws on the grounds that they interfered with their free practice of religion, eventually these laws were upheld and the church was forced to abandon one or the other of these two important beliefs: They would either have to give up the practice of polygamy, or give up their policy of, "obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law," as the law, now more clearly defined, outlawed polygamy. President Wilford Woodruff, in consulting with the Lord regarding these troubles was shown in vision the great tragedy that would befall the saints if they persisted in the practice. The saints had suffered much but were willing to continue doing whatever God asked them to do. In these extreme circumstances, the Lord permitted the discontinuation of the practice of plural marriage. Had God's purposes for plural marriage not been accomplished, he would have provided a way for it's continuation. God is not controlled by man, but he does wait on us to come to him. Just as plural marriage was revealed in response to a Prophet's questions regarding polygamy in the Old Testament, it was ended by revelation when a Prophet counseled with the Lord regarding what the saints should do.

An excerpt from the Manifesto issued by the church reads: Inasmuch as laws have been enacted by Congress forbidding plural marriages, which laws have been pronounced constitutional by the court of last resort, I hereby declare my intention to submit to those laws, and to use my influence with the members of the Church over which I preside to have them do likewise.

Though the church officially abandoned the practice, enforcement of the new laws was cruel and often illegal. Though new plural marriages were not authorized by the church, plural families which already existed (before the new laws clearly forbade polygamy) were literally torn apart. Men were imprisoned for attempting to provide for their existing wives and children or were forced to abandon them. Many had to live in hiding. Women were left with no means of support and were at times unnecessarily imprisoned, often with their infant children, for refusing to testify against their husbands.

I have read some journals and memoirs from this period in the church's history. Polygamy is in the background, but is only occasionally the focus of the stories. For the most part, they are like the stories of any other woman from that period. What makes them special is their extraordinary strength, integrity, and courage. I feel so much respect and admiration for them.

Excerpts from the memoirs of Florence Snow Woolley:

"Many very funny as well as tragic events grew out of the "Polygamy Raid" the nature of the event depending largely upon the temperament of the men and women who experienced them... I recall that at one time when my husband had had a particularly narrow escape from arrest, he was standing on the street corner talking with a group of friends when he picked up his little daughter Bessie and placing her on the palm of his hand asked: "Look at that, fellows, isn't that worth going to the 'pen' for?" What could the Law do against a spirit of that kind? Men all over the state proved that they were wiling to go to the pen and pay fins for their little ones. [My husband] was caught once...but as the deputies who had been commissioned to arrest me had failed to do so, Mr. Dee Woolley was set free without so much as a trial. When he was at liberty he invited his captors to dine with him at the restaurant, which they all did and had a most friendly afternoon."

"My husband was the first man I ever allowed to kiss me goodnight before we were married. Spooning or necking simply was not done in my day. Modesty was considered one of the feminine virtues or charms, and every girl cultivated it religiously."

"I have always said that I had the best father and the best husband, whether in polygamy or monogamy. They were kind and honorable men and earnestly tried to be just and true to all. A long life together proved that it was a right and happy choice. He was a very just man in his family relations and always treated me with the love and consideration that was due any wife...sincerity and truthfulness were the keystone of his character. My mother often said she had never known a juster man than was Dee. It was a surprise to everyone, even the polygamists them selves of the community that I should have consented to be a plural wife, when I could have had my choice of practically all the eligible young men of the town. I do not know just why or how I made up my mind to accept that position, for I could not have been in love with Dee when he asked me to marry him, even the second time (she refused him the first time and he asked again three years later), as there had been no ardent courting or even special attention paid to me. It was just fate---I suppose, that I should marry the handsome Dee Woolley. Although he already had a wife and five children and no particular worldly prospects except his strong hands and brave heart. It took more courage on the mans part to enter that relationship than on the part of the woman, but many of them did enter it. I have never regretted the step I took that 12th day of may 1877."

Mothers

2009-05-11T06:38:00.000-07:00

I took the day off to spend with with my family so, instead of my own thoughts, I have posted some thoughts on motherhood from prophets, apostles, and other church leaders. Hope you enjoy!

"To be a righteous woman is a glorious thing in any age. To be a righteous woman during the winding up scenes on this earth, before the second coming of our Savior, is an especially noble calling. The righteous woman’s strength and influence today can be tenfold what it might be in more tranquil times. She has been placed here to help to enrich, to protect, and to guard the home—which is society’s basic and most noble institution. Other institutions in society may falter and even fail, but the righteous woman can help to save the home, which may be the last and only sanctuary some mortals know in the midst of storm and strife." N. EldonTanner

“She who can paint a masterpiece or write a book that will influence millions deserves the plaudits and admiration of mankind. But she who would willingly and anxiously rear successfully a family of beautiful healthy sons and daughters whose lives reflect the teachings of the gospel, deserves the highest honors that man can give, and the choicest blessings of God. In fact, in her high duty and service to humanity, endowing with mortality eternal spirits, she is a co-partner with the Great Creator himself.” David O. McKay

"In my experience I have seen that some of the truest mother hearts beat in the breasts of women who will not rear their own children in this life, but they know that “all things must come to pass in their time” and that they “are laying the foundation of a great work” Julie B. Beck The Lord compensates the faithful for every loss. That which is taken away from those who love the Lord will be added unto them in His own way. While it may not come at the time we desire, the faithful will know that every tear today will eventually be returned a hundredfold with tears of rejoicing and gratitude." Joseph B. Wirthlin

"The whole purpose of the creation of the earth was to provide a dwelling place where the spirit children of God might come and be clothed in mortal bodies and, by keeping their second estate, prepare themselves for salvation and exaltation. The whole purpose of the mission of Jesus Christ was to make possible the immortality and eternal life of man. The whole purpose of mothers and fathers should be to live worthy of this blessing and to assist God the Father and his son Jesus Christ in their work. No greater honor could be given to woman than to assist in this divine plan, and I wish to say without equivocation that a woman will find greater satisfaction and joy and make a greater contribution to mankind by being a wise and worthy mother raising good children than she could make in any other vocation. " Tanner

Families

2009-05-03T19:27:00.000-07:00

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. 3 John 1:4

Why do Latter-Day Saints place such a high value on children and families?

We are each literally children of God and we lived with him before we were born on this earth. As spirit sons and daughters of God, we progressed as far as we could without a body and the experiences that we would have in mortality. We needed to leave God's presence for a time and come to earth. Mortality is required of each of God's children who wish to obtain the blessings that he has in store for them.

As part of our Heavenly Father's Plan, he has placed us in families where we can be loved and nurtured and he has promised us that those precious family relationships can continue forever.

The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve was to multiply replenish the earth. We believe that that commandment is still in force. In bearing children we provide the opportunity for our Heavenly Father's children to gain a body and experience mortality.

"The expression of our procreative powers is pleasing to God, but he has commanded that this be confined within the relationship of marriage. President Spencer W. Kimball taught that “in the context of lawful marriage, the intimacy of sexual relations is right and divinely approved. There is nothing unholy or degrading about sexuality in itself, for by that means men and women join in a process of creation and in an expression of love.” Oaks

Latter-Day Saints are counseled to have children and to counsel with the Lord in making their decisions. An official statement from the church reads: "Children are one of the greatest blessings in life, and their birth into loving and nurturing families is central to God’s purposes for humanity. When husband and wife are physically able, they have the privilege and responsibility to bring children into the world and to nurture them. The decision of how many children to have and when to have them is a private matter for the husband and wife." That is it. There are no quotas or requirements, or prohibitions on birth control. As with most direction we receive in the church, we are taught what God expects of us and why, then are left to govern ourselves.

Each of my children is a beloved child of God. There were his first. He has given me the opportunity to raise them and to experience the love and joy that they bring. I love to look into their eyes and think about how recently they were in their Heavenly Father's presence. I learn so much from my children and feel blessed and privileged to have them in my home. It is not easy. Nothing worth doing is. It takes work and sacrifice, humility, faith, and patience to teach and care for children, but I can think of no greater joy.

Free to Choose

2009-04-26T20:21:00.000-07:00

Christ said, "What manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am." 3 Ne. 27: 27

I believe that Jesus Christ lived a perfect life. I also believe that he intended that his life be not only admired, but emulated. Latter-Day Saints believe in doing good things. We seek God's help and guidance, but we believe that our ultimate destiny is ours to choose. Christ, through his atonement, paid the price for our sins and redeemed us from the effects of the Fall. It is only through Christ that we can be saved. He stands between us and justice. He offers his salvation to all men and all men have the option to accept it. The price has already been paid. We believe that it is up to us to choose whether we will, through faith and repentance, accept the offered gift. Whosoever will come may come and partake of the waters of life freely; and whosoever will not come the same is not compelled to come. Alma 42:27

We believe that God has made us free. Because that they are redeemed from the fall they have become free forever, knowing good from evil; to act for themselves and not to be acted upon, save it be by the punishment of the law at the great and last day, according to the commandments which God hath given. Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal live, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself. 2 Ne. 2: 26-27

God respects the freedom he gave us to choose for ourselves. Though we are dependent on him for our very lives, he does not force us to obey him. I have often heard it said that the only thing we can offer God that is entirely ours to give is our own free will. I would say that one of the great purposes of life is to learn to choose good over evil. For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy spirit and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father. Mosiah 3: 19 If we are to become like Christ, we must learn to do the things that he does, to think the way he thinks, to love the way he loves. The best way to learn to do something is by doing it. As we strive to emulate Christ, it becomes easier and more natural to us.

To live in God's presence we must be clean and holy. If we strive in this life to be obedient to God's commands, to follow the example that Christ set for us, we will be cleansed through the mercy that Christ offers. If we follow a different path, we cannot expect that we will be a different person in the next life. Our desires and appetites will be unchanged. God does not magically change us into something we are not nor wish to be. He removes for us the obstacles that prevent us from coming to him and makes possible our return. We can trust that everything that God asks us to do is for our own good. It is through obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel that we are taught and our hearts are changed. It is a miraculous process, but not a mystical one. The practice of godliness is as essential to the attainment of godliness as the practice of music is essential to great musical achievement; though unlike great musical accomplishments, eternal life is available to all who truly desire it and choose to follow the path that leads there.

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with [charity], which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen. Moro. 7: 48

The Temple

2009-04-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

Imagine taking a peek into Heaven. Everyone there is wearing modest white clothing, they are kind and pleasant and united in their worship and their service to others. It is peaceful and beautiful. This is my experience every time I go to the temple. The buildings are beautiful and the spirit of the Lord is felt there. I truly feel like I can leave my worldly troubles behind and for a few moments, enjoy the comfort of Heaven.

What happens in the temple?
Because we consider the temples ordinances so sacred, we only talk about them in the temple. This makes it a little hard to describe and easy for those who don't understand to fill in the blanks with their own imaginings. Please trust me when I say that I have been to the temple and there is nothing said or done there that I wouldn't be comfortable sharing except for the need to guard it's sacredness. There is much beauty and symbolism in the ceremonies and the covenants we make regard our willingness to serve God and obey his commandments. We go to the temple to learn and to perform sacred ordinances which prepare us to return to the presence of God. I was married in the temple and am sealed to my family for eternity. (picture) These ordinances have been performed in holy temples (or other authorized places) throughout history since the time of Adam. We believe that God is unchanging and that the requirements he makes of his children are the same today as they have always been. After Christ made it possible for the gospel to be preached to the dead in the spirit world, these ordinances began to be performed in behalf of those who did not have the opportunity to learn the gospel and receive these ordinances, such as baptism, while they were alive. These people are free to choose whether or not they wish to accept the ordinances, we simply make the choice available to them. (We do not believe that ordinances save us, but that they are required for salvation--a topic for another day.) For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. 1 Pet. 4: 6

Who gets to go to the temple?
Before a temple is dedicated to the work of the Lord, there is an open house where anyone may take a tour of the temple. I know some of you were able to attend the open house for the Newport Beach temple. After the dedication, only those who are qualified and prepared for temple worship may participate. The intent is not to exclude anyone, but to ensure that those who enter are prepared. Everyone who goes must meet the same requirements and all are welcomed and encouraged to do so. These requirements include a testimony of the gospel and obedience to the commandments of God (perfection is obviously not a requirement, but we must be sincere in our efforts).

The Temple Garment
Some of you have expressed curiosity about the underclothing that is worn by those who receive the temple endowment. The temple garment is simple, white, underclothing that we wear as a constant reminder of the covenants that we made in the temple. We consider it sacred.

Temple Attendance
There are currently 129 temples in the world and many more are being built in an effort to make temple blessings easily available to everyone who wishes to receive them. The first visit we receive the ordinances for ourselves and on subsequent visits we perform them as a service on behalf of deceased persons. We attend the temple as often as we can depending on our circumstances. Temples are open on a daily basis. No one keeps track of how often you go; temple service is motivated by love for God and his children and a desire to serve them. Peace, knowledge, and joy are the benefits of temple attendance. I am grateful for this piece of Heaven on earth.

Question--Cross

2009-04-20T12:16:00.001-07:00

What does wearing a cross mean to you?

Victory over Death

2009-04-13T13:10:00.000-07:00

"This is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man" Moses 1:39

The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the most glorious event in all of human history! I was privileged this past week to attend the funeral for a friend’s husband who passed away a few months before their 50th anniversary. While there, I sat next to another friend whose five-year-old son died last year. I thought a lot about life and death and how grateful I am for what I know about what happens when this life is through. LDS funerals are so peaceful. There are tears, of course, but no extreme grieving. The separation from a loved one is always hard and none is harder, I think, than the separation which comes with death, yet because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, I know that death is not the end of our lives any more than birth is the beginning.

We lived with God before we were born. It was his plan for us to come to Earth. Because of the fall of Adam, man became subject to mortality and death—physical death (the separation of the body and spirit) and spiritual death (separation from God). The Atonement of Jesus Christ overcomes the effects of both physical death and spiritual death. His salvation is available to all who ever have or ever will live upon the earth.

Resurrection
I believe that Christ’s resurrection was literal. His spirit and body were permanently reunited and because of his victory over death, all mankind will also be physically resurrected. The soul shall be restored to the body, and the body to the soul; yea, and every limb and joint shall be restored to its body; yea, even a hair of the head shall not be lost; but all things shall be restored to their proper and perfect frame. Alma 40:23 Now, this restoration shall come to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, both the wicked and the righteous… Alma 11:44 As the fall of Adam brought death to all, so Christ’s atonement brings life to all mankind.

Eternal life
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23 Sin separates us from God, for no unclean thing can dwell in the presence of God. The Atonement of Christ provides us a way to overcome the effects of sin, though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow Isaiah 1:18 The cleansing effects of the atonement are available to every accountable person who accepts his gift. (…all little children are alive in Christ, and also all they that are without the law. For the power of redemption cometh on all them that have no law; wherefore, he that is not condemned, or he that is under no condemnation, cannot repent…Moroni 8:22) Salvation from death is free to all, salvation from sin comes only to those request it by means of repentance, who have faith in Jesus Christ and a determination to follow him. God respects our right to choose and because sin is a choice, so cleansing must be a choice. And he shall come into the world to redeem his people; and he shall take upon him the transgressions of those who believe on his name; and these are they that shall have eternal life, and salvation cometh to none else. Alma 11:40

What happens when we die?
The spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal body, yea, the spirits of all men, whether they be good or evil, are taken home to that God who gave them life. Alma 40:11 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. Eccl 2:7

When the spirit leaves the body at death, we anticipate a joyful reunion in the spirit world with loved ones who have already died. The spirits of the righteous are received into paradise and the spirits of the wicked to prison. We remember our lives on earth and continue to assist God in the work of saving his children. Those who did not have the opportunity to accept Christ in this life, will have the opportunity to learn of him and accept him there. We remain in the spirit world until the time of resurrection and judgment, when those who have been obedient to the gospel of Jesus Christ, return, with their families, to live with Heavenly Father.

Question--Christ's body

2009-04-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

A couple of years ago I was reading the New Testament and I began to wonder what Trinitarians believe happened to Christ's body after he was resurrected. I was sure that there must be a reasonable explanation, as there are for the things people don't understand about my faith. I have asked a few people, but I haven't found a satisfying answer yet. Does anyone know?

Scripture

2009-04-05T22:16:00.000-07:00

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."2 Tim. 3: 16,17

I love the scriptures! There is no better way to understand the gospel of Jesus Christ than through prayerful scripture study. Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. John 5: 39 Mormons love the scriptures. We carry them to church and take them on vacation. We study them as individuals and as families. We mark them and write in them and pray to understand them. We honor the great men and women whose stories are contained in them. We are commanded to, “feast upon the words of Christ.” 2 Ne. 32: 3

The purpose of scripture is and always has been to bring people to Christ. True scripture comes by the power of the Holy Ghost and it is through the Holy Ghost that scripture can be correctly understood. God's understanding far exceeds that of even to most intelligent of men. The Lord expects us to think and study and learn, but he does not abandon us to try to figure things out alone. The Holy Ghost teaches and confirms truth. He enlightens our understanding, and guides us in our study.

God spoke to the prophets of old and they wrote his words and teachings, and their testimonies and experiences as followers of God. The Old Testament contains these histories. Christ’s ministry and teachings and the work of the apostles were recorded, and some of these writings were included in the New Testament. The things that are recorded in the Bible were given by God to teach and bless us.

“And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written.” John 21: 25

The ancient American prophet, Nephi (Nē fī) said ”And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.” 2 Ne. 25:26 Around 600 B.C. Nephi and his family were led by God from Jerusalem to this land of promise. They brought with them some of the prophetic writings that they had available to them, which included many of the writings of Isaiah. He understood that if his people did not have the words of God available to them that they would dwindle in unbelief. To that end, he and those who came after him recorded the words of God that were revealed to them as they taught and led the people. Some of these writings were included in a book compiled by the prophet Mormon and completed by his son Moroni around 400 A.D. This work is called the Book of Mormon (and is the source of the nickname Mormon.) We believe that the coming forth of the Book of Mormon is the literal fulfillment of Ezekiel’s prophesy.

As part of the restoration of all things spoken of in Matt. 17:11 the Lord spoke to the prophet, Joseph Smith, and commanded him that he should keep a record. The Lord’s revelations to Joseph regarding the establishment of the church are contained in the Doctorine and Covenants. This book, along with the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Pearl of Great Price, make up the LDS cannon. This cannon, however, is not closed.

It has been said that God never abandons us, it is we who turn our backs on him. So it is with revelation. In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, we believe that God is as concerned about his children today as in the time when the Bible and Book of Mormon were being written. He calls prophets, and through them continues to guide and instruct the church. There is so much that we can learn from God’s words to his people in ancient time. Though people are much the same today as they were then, the world has changed so much. I am grateful that God gives us counsel in our day regarding our specific circumstances and I am grateful to the many good men and women who have sacrificed much to bring the scriptures to us. I feel so blessed to have such easy access to the word of God.

A Prophet's voice

2009-03-29T23:09:00.000-07:00

Amos 3:7 Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

I believe that Jesus Christ stands at the head of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and that he directs his church, as he did in ancient times, through a living Prophet, whose most important responsibility is to testify of Christ. The prophet is the only one authorized to deliver revelations from God to the entire church.

Following the Lord’s prophets has been the way of God’s people from the days of Adam, Enoch, Noah, Moses, Abraham, and many others through the ages and there is great safety in doing so. I trust the counsel of the prophet, both because I believe that he was called of God and because his counsel is always good and wise. No one in the church is compelled or expected to blindly follow the Prophet’s counsel. We are expected to counsel with the Lord in all things, this includes seeking confirmation through the Spirit of the things the Prophet has told us.

In the LDS church, we attribute the same authority to the words of the living prophet as we do to the words left for us in scripture by the prophets of old. The counsel of the living prophet carries special importance for me because, like Noah, he speaks directly to our time and circumstance.

Who chooses the prophet?

I think one of the most inspiring things about the Prophets and other LDS leaders is that they are called through inspiration from God from among the membership of the church. There is no career path nor financial motive for service, you can't apply. You choose whether to lead a Christ-like life and to accept callings when they come. Bishops (the leaders of local congregations) continue to work full-time during the few years that they serve. The prophets and apostles, have left successful careers to serve the church full-time. There is no politicking, no competition, simply a call to serve. I have watched these men for many years. Their entire lives are devoted to serving God and his children, and they serve with their whole hearts.

I feel very blessed to have a living prophet and apostles on the earth today.

We have the opportunity every year of meeting as a church to hear the words of the great men and women who lead the church and its auxiliaries. The conference is this weekend (Apr. 4&5), so if you are curious about Mormon leaders, you can inspect them from the comfort of your own home. The proceedings of the conference will be broadcast on television this Saturday and Sunday from 9:00-11:00 and from 1:00-3:00. I’m not sure which channel—I’ll let you know.

Children of God

2009-03-22T21:39:00.000-07:00

One of the most exciting teachings of the LDS church is that we are literally children of God. He is the father of our spirits and we lived with him before we came to earth. Every man, woman, and child on this earth is a son or daughter of God.

Knowing that we are all brothers and sisters truly affects my interactions with other people. God loves each of his children with a love more perfect even than the love that I feel for my own children and he does not give up encouraging any of us to repent and return to him. If what we feel for those we love is even a sample of what God feels for us, how could we not feel the desire to help lift the burdens of his other children? How can we not desire for others the same blessings and privileges that we enjoy? Knowing that everyone I meet is part of my family and dearly beloved by my perfect and loving Heavenly Father makes me want to be a kinder and better person. Knowing that I am His child gives me hope that I can become more like him.

“…he inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile.” 2Ne. 26:33