Mark 3:35"For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother."
In this scripture, Christ tenderly promises that those who follow Him will be a part of His family. I really love this idea because sometimes when I feel alone, lonely, frustrated, or overwhelmed, all I really long for is an embrace from a family member, someone to hold and rock me as I cry or scream. Sometimes, and especially lately, it is common for me to feel this way and there is nobody to embrace me. I would like to testify that I have put this in practice and when nobody else was there to comfort me and I cried out, Christ came and surrounded me with His love. I know that He felt what I was feeling, and was crying with me. It felt so natural, just like my father, older brother, or husband would do, and yet it was Christ. I felt Him, I knew it was Him, and I was comforted, and given the strength to carry on and push forward in the daily hum-drum of life.
Breanna Plooster
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Light of Life
John 8:12, "The spake Jesus again unto to them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."
As I read this scripture, I came to a new understand of it. I understand that Christ is the light of the world, a particularly poignant symbol at this time of year, but I really felt like Christ was trying to tell me to do something, give me a commandment, if you will, in this verse. I studied it and came up with the idea that if Christ is the light of the world, and I know it and I see it, then I need to spread it. Right now, at this time in history, Christ's light cannot cover the whole Earth and light everyone's darkness. That is where I come in. I need to spread that light that makes everyone's days a little more joyful. So I decided to sweep off the 6 or 7 inches of snow and ice that had caked everyone's car in my ward. I thought that if I could put it into practice, I would really be spreading a little bit of that Christ, or Christmas, light.
Simple Statement of Principle: Pick up Christ's light and share it.
Breanna Plooster
As I read this scripture, I came to a new understand of it. I understand that Christ is the light of the world, a particularly poignant symbol at this time of year, but I really felt like Christ was trying to tell me to do something, give me a commandment, if you will, in this verse. I studied it and came up with the idea that if Christ is the light of the world, and I know it and I see it, then I need to spread it. Right now, at this time in history, Christ's light cannot cover the whole Earth and light everyone's darkness. That is where I come in. I need to spread that light that makes everyone's days a little more joyful. So I decided to sweep off the 6 or 7 inches of snow and ice that had caked everyone's car in my ward. I thought that if I could put it into practice, I would really be spreading a little bit of that Christ, or Christmas, light.
Simple Statement of Principle: Pick up Christ's light and share it.
Breanna Plooster
Sacrament
Ever since last class, I have not been able to get the idea of the sacrament out of my head with the video about the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery. I kept thinking about how the word sacrament means that something divine and something human is being combined. I realized that as we take the sacrament each week, we are inviting the divine power of the Atonement into our lives and giving up some of our humanness for divinity. I really loved the idea that at the Last Supper, Jesus Christ gave us something divine, His personal, bodily sacrifice, and in return asks us for some of our humanness, some natural man. Although sometimes I think about how hard it is to repent, when I really take a moment and think about how much the Savior gave me, my sins become much easier to give.
The Simple Statement of Principle: Take a moment and think about how much the Savior gave us, and it will make it easier to give Him our sins, shortcomings, and afflictions.
I believe this with every fiber of my being. I implore you to take that moment during the sacrament and I testify that you will discover how badly you want to make things right and turn them over to the Lord.
Breanna Plooster
The Simple Statement of Principle: Take a moment and think about how much the Savior gave us, and it will make it easier to give Him our sins, shortcomings, and afflictions.
I believe this with every fiber of my being. I implore you to take that moment during the sacrament and I testify that you will discover how badly you want to make things right and turn them over to the Lord.
Breanna Plooster
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Christ's Life
Something Brother Bott said this past week really struck me. It caused me to do some reflecting this past week on what the life of Mary, Mother of Jesus, must have been like. It was interesting for me to go back into the beginning chapters of Luke and read about the birth of Christ. It is especially interesting at this time of year when we celebrate His birth.
It was very profound for me to then go to the end of his life and read the account of him and Mary at the cross. I wonder what life must have been like for Mary.
This has been a great semester and a great opportunity to learn about Christ. I would like to end my post by thanking all that have helped teach me this semester and especially thank Brother Boyce for his perseverance.
Thank you! and Merry Christmas to all!
It was very profound for me to then go to the end of his life and read the account of him and Mary at the cross. I wonder what life must have been like for Mary.
This has been a great semester and a great opportunity to learn about Christ. I would like to end my post by thanking all that have helped teach me this semester and especially thank Brother Boyce for his perseverance.
Thank you! and Merry Christmas to all!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Who art thou?
John 21:12 "Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord."
Simple Statement of Principle: Know the Lord well enough to know when He is taking a hand in your life.
I know that seeing the Lord face to face is not on the agenda of many of our lives', but we can know the Lord and know that He works on our behalf even today, if we take the time to learn who he is. When the day comes I do not want to be one who does not recognize the Lord, like the rich man who turned the beggar Lazarus away. I want to be like these disciples and not need to ask the Lord who He is. But even more than that, right now, today, I want to be able to recognize when the Lord blesses me or intervenes in my behalf. And in order for me to recognize His hand more often, I need to cultivate a personal understanding of who He is, what He stands for, and what He wants. The only way to do that is through prayer, scripture study, going to the temple, and serving others.
President Eyring said, "Have I seen the hand of God reaching out to touch us or our children or our family today? As I kept at it, something began to happen. As I would cast my mind over the day, I would see evidence of what God had done for one of us that I had not recognized in the busy moments of the day. As that happened, and it happened often, I realized that trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done."
Breanna Plooster
Simple Statement of Principle: Know the Lord well enough to know when He is taking a hand in your life.
I know that seeing the Lord face to face is not on the agenda of many of our lives', but we can know the Lord and know that He works on our behalf even today, if we take the time to learn who he is. When the day comes I do not want to be one who does not recognize the Lord, like the rich man who turned the beggar Lazarus away. I want to be like these disciples and not need to ask the Lord who He is. But even more than that, right now, today, I want to be able to recognize when the Lord blesses me or intervenes in my behalf. And in order for me to recognize His hand more often, I need to cultivate a personal understanding of who He is, what He stands for, and what He wants. The only way to do that is through prayer, scripture study, going to the temple, and serving others.
President Eyring said, "Have I seen the hand of God reaching out to touch us or our children or our family today? As I kept at it, something began to happen. As I would cast my mind over the day, I would see evidence of what God had done for one of us that I had not recognized in the busy moments of the day. As that happened, and it happened often, I realized that trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done."
Breanna Plooster
Down to Hell
Matthew 27:64 "Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him way, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first."
Just as the Pharisees were never satisfied with Jesus' death--first they wanted Him to be killed, then they wanted His tomb guarded, then whan the disciples would not keep silent, they tried to kill them. This is how Satan works. He is never satisfied with one little sin or one mistake; he is always tugging on us to drag us further down to hell.
Simple Statement of Principle, "Satan will never be satisfied; he will work on us until he gradually drags us to hell." Therefore watch out for him, do not let one sin lead to another and to another. It is just like Lehonti in the Book of Mormon. Amalickiah was never satisfied with how far Lehonti had come down the mountain until he was trapped.
Elder Robert D Hales said, "In the Book of Mormon, we read about Lehonti and his men camped upon a mount. The traitorous Amalickiah urged Lehonti to “come down” and meet him in the valley. But when Lehonti left the high ground, he was poisoned “by degrees” until he died, and his army fell into Amalickiah’s hands (see Alma 47)."
Breanna Plooster
Just as the Pharisees were never satisfied with Jesus' death--first they wanted Him to be killed, then they wanted His tomb guarded, then whan the disciples would not keep silent, they tried to kill them. This is how Satan works. He is never satisfied with one little sin or one mistake; he is always tugging on us to drag us further down to hell.
Simple Statement of Principle, "Satan will never be satisfied; he will work on us until he gradually drags us to hell." Therefore watch out for him, do not let one sin lead to another and to another. It is just like Lehonti in the Book of Mormon. Amalickiah was never satisfied with how far Lehonti had come down the mountain until he was trapped.
Elder Robert D Hales said, "In the Book of Mormon, we read about Lehonti and his men camped upon a mount. The traitorous Amalickiah urged Lehonti to “come down” and meet him in the valley. But when Lehonti left the high ground, he was poisoned “by degrees” until he died, and his army fell into Amalickiah’s hands (see Alma 47)."
Breanna Plooster
One with God
John 17:20-21 "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
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."
We can become one with God, just as the Savior was, by believing on the words of the Savior and drawing nearer to God through them.
D. Todd Christofferson said, "Becoming at one within ourselves prepares us for the greater blessing of becoming one with God and Christ. Surely we will not be one with God and Christ until we make Their will and interest our greatest desire."
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."
We can become one with God, just as the Savior was, by believing on the words of the Savior and drawing nearer to God through them.
D. Todd Christofferson said, "Becoming at one within ourselves prepares us for the greater blessing of becoming one with God and Christ. Surely we will not be one with God and Christ until we make Their will and interest our greatest desire."
Baptism - water and fire
Matthew 3:11 "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:"
Baptism, without the reception of the gift of the Holy Ghost, is an incomplete ordinance. We need both in order to fully receive the blessings promised to us.
Joseph Smith said: “You might as well baptize a bag of sand as a man, if not done in view of the remission of sins and getting of the Holy Ghost. Baptism by water is but half a baptism, and is good for nothing without the other half—that is, the baptism of the Holy Ghost”
Baptism, without the reception of the gift of the Holy Ghost, is an incomplete ordinance. We need both in order to fully receive the blessings promised to us.
Joseph Smith said: “You might as well baptize a bag of sand as a man, if not done in view of the remission of sins and getting of the Holy Ghost. Baptism by water is but half a baptism, and is good for nothing without the other half—that is, the baptism of the Holy Ghost”
Spirit of the law
Luke 14:2-3 "And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?
And they held their peace. And he took him, and healed him, and let him go;"
It is more important to understand and follow the spirit of the law than the letter of the law.
Boyd K. Packer stated the following:
"The commandments found in the scriptures, both the positive counsel and the 'shalt nots,' form the letter of the law. There is also the spirit of the law. We are responsible for both."
And they held their peace. And he took him, and healed him, and let him go;"
It is more important to understand and follow the spirit of the law than the letter of the law.
Boyd K. Packer stated the following:
"The commandments found in the scriptures, both the positive counsel and the 'shalt nots,' form the letter of the law. There is also the spirit of the law. We are responsible for both."
Friendship with the Savior
John 15:13-14 "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you."
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
We cultivate friendship with the Savior and come to know and love him by heeding his words and obeying his teachings.
As we cultivate this friendship with the Savior, we will be willing, as he was, to lay down our own lives if necessary for him or for his cause.
Richard C. Edgley said, "The Savior gave the criteria for His friendship in the 15th chapter of John, in which He states, 'Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you' (John 15:14). He further gave the acid test when He said, 'Ye shall know them by their fruits' (Matt. 7:16; see also Matt. 7:17–18, 20). This is how we will all be judged—by our fruits, good or bad. In the final judgment, if our fruits so warrant, we will be invited to sit on the right hand of God. There I believe will be His friends."
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you."
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
We cultivate friendship with the Savior and come to know and love him by heeding his words and obeying his teachings.
As we cultivate this friendship with the Savior, we will be willing, as he was, to lay down our own lives if necessary for him or for his cause.
Richard C. Edgley said, "The Savior gave the criteria for His friendship in the 15th chapter of John, in which He states, 'Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you' (John 15:14). He further gave the acid test when He said, 'Ye shall know them by their fruits' (Matt. 7:16; see also Matt. 7:17–18, 20). This is how we will all be judged—by our fruits, good or bad. In the final judgment, if our fruits so warrant, we will be invited to sit on the right hand of God. There I believe will be His friends."
I have overcome the world
John 16:33 "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
The savior's atonement should bring joy and peace to our lives.
This peace and joy stands in stark contrast to the fear and dispair which abound in the world today. Christ overcame the world through his atonement. We can overcome the world by partaking of the blessings of his atonement through repentance.
"Those who overcome this world by repenting will in the process have formed character which will give them 'so much the advantage in the world to come.' So much, therefore, of overcoming the world consists of overcoming the proclivities of the natural man and woman."
The savior's atonement should bring joy and peace to our lives.
This peace and joy stands in stark contrast to the fear and dispair which abound in the world today. Christ overcame the world through his atonement. We can overcome the world by partaking of the blessings of his atonement through repentance.
"Those who overcome this world by repenting will in the process have formed character which will give them 'so much the advantage in the world to come.' So much, therefore, of overcoming the world consists of overcoming the proclivities of the natural man and woman."
Turn the other cheek
"But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also." Matthew 5:39
We should never try for the path of least resistance, for the easiest way never was the way that leads to salvation and eternal life.
Robert D. Hales said, "When we do not retaliate—when we turn the other cheek and resist feelings of anger—we too stand with the Savior"
We should never try for the path of least resistance, for the easiest way never was the way that leads to salvation and eternal life.
Robert D. Hales said, "When we do not retaliate—when we turn the other cheek and resist feelings of anger—we too stand with the Savior"
A Living Testimony
I wanted to post my last comments this semester with my testimony of the Savior and His ministry on the earth. It as been such a wonderful semester being able to study the life of the savior. My testimony of His divinely appointed mission has increased. I know that he lives and guides this church today. He is the great Jehovah who we sustained as Savior of the world in the pre-mortal life. Under the direction of the Father he created this physical world we now live on. I know that he was born of Mary in a manger in Bethlehem and that the angels of heaven shouted for joy at his birth. I know that he brought light and truth to the world. His ministry was that of peace and charity. He preformed miracles and walked the roads of the Holy Land doing good. He was baptized by John to fulfill all righteousness, he ordained apostles and then established His gospel. I know he suffered in the garden of Gethsemane and balanced the scales of justice and mercy with His infinite atonement. I love Him and wish to always serve Him. He is the same being who appeared to the inhabitants of the Americas and visited the boy Joseph in answer to a humble prayer. He leads the church today through chosen servants and continues to be the living water and the bread of life. The living testimony of the restoration is that he lives. I know all this to be true. In His name Jesus Christ. Amen.
Signs of the Time
Mathew 24:
3 ¶ And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.
5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
When I read this my first impulse is to worry about the condition of the world today. At this point in my life I seem to stress too much about the economy, political situation, and disillusioning media presentations of the world status. I also worry about the progression of the world and what it might be for my kids in the future. Then I read the following and remember the eternal perspective I must have.
13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come
The signs of the time also give hope. A hope of the coming of the Lord and the eventual eternal peace. What a wonderful time to live...when the fullness of the gospel is being preached to all the world. The gospel brings that peace that is so needed in today's society. I teach at the MTC and recently spent some time discussing with my missionaries the wonderful opportunity they have to teach the "good news" to a troubled world. They will have an exceedingly great opportunity to teach prepared souls the message of peace. The world condition will help "uncover" those individuals who are really hungering and thirsting for the truth.
3 ¶ And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.
5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
When I read this my first impulse is to worry about the condition of the world today. At this point in my life I seem to stress too much about the economy, political situation, and disillusioning media presentations of the world status. I also worry about the progression of the world and what it might be for my kids in the future. Then I read the following and remember the eternal perspective I must have.
13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come
The signs of the time also give hope. A hope of the coming of the Lord and the eventual eternal peace. What a wonderful time to live...when the fullness of the gospel is being preached to all the world. The gospel brings that peace that is so needed in today's society. I teach at the MTC and recently spent some time discussing with my missionaries the wonderful opportunity they have to teach the "good news" to a troubled world. They will have an exceedingly great opportunity to teach prepared souls the message of peace. The world condition will help "uncover" those individuals who are really hungering and thirsting for the truth.
Marks of Divinity
I wanted to share this talk that I have recently read about the divinity of the Lord's mission. I have found it interesting to note, over the last couple of weeks, the comments given about this holiday season and the birth of Jesus Christ. It seems more and more common that the world is trying to justify the signs given at Christ's birth as just symbolic literary discriptions. It is interesting to think that his birth is one of the five marks of divinity spoken of by President Benson. The marvelous events of his humble birth testify of His divinely appointed mission.
Five marks of divinity
By President Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994)
"From the time of His heaven-heralded birth there have crept into the Church heresies which are intended to dilute or undermine the pure doctrines of the gospel. These heresies are, by and large, sponsored by the philosophies of man and in many instances are advocated by so-called Christian scholars. The attempt is to make Christianity more palatable, more reasonable, and so they attempt to humanize Jesus and give natural explanations to those things which are divine. An example is Jesus’ birth. There are those who would seek to convince us that the divine birth of Christ as proclaimed in the New Testament was not a divine birth at all—nor was Mary, the virgin girl, a virgin at the time of Jesus’ conception. They would have you believe that Joseph, the foster father of Jesus, was His physical father, and that Jesus was therefore human in all His attributes and characteristics. They appear generous in their praise of Him when they say that He was a great moral philosopher, perhaps even the greatest. But the intent of their effort is to repudiate the divine sonship of Jesus, for on that doctrine rest all other claims of Christianity."
Five marks of divinity
By President Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994)
"From the time of His heaven-heralded birth there have crept into the Church heresies which are intended to dilute or undermine the pure doctrines of the gospel. These heresies are, by and large, sponsored by the philosophies of man and in many instances are advocated by so-called Christian scholars. The attempt is to make Christianity more palatable, more reasonable, and so they attempt to humanize Jesus and give natural explanations to those things which are divine. An example is Jesus’ birth. There are those who would seek to convince us that the divine birth of Christ as proclaimed in the New Testament was not a divine birth at all—nor was Mary, the virgin girl, a virgin at the time of Jesus’ conception. They would have you believe that Joseph, the foster father of Jesus, was His physical father, and that Jesus was therefore human in all His attributes and characteristics. They appear generous in their praise of Him when they say that He was a great moral philosopher, perhaps even the greatest. But the intent of their effort is to repudiate the divine sonship of Jesus, for on that doctrine rest all other claims of Christianity."
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Be Prepared
Matthew 25
11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.
13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
In the most recent conference Elder L. Tom Perry emphasized the importance of being like the 5 prepared virgins. Since we are in the last days this is increasingly important. We can see the times of our signs everyday and the signs of the end. It is important that we remember to be prepared as no man knows the time of the Lord's coming.
In the most recent conference Elder L. Tom Perry emphasized the importance of being like the 5 prepared virgins. Since we are in the last days this is increasingly important. We can see the times of our signs everyday and the signs of the end. It is important that we remember to be prepared as no man knows the time of the Lord's coming.
More Abundant LIfe
John 10:10 - The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
Jesus Christ came that we could have life. He came so that we could live this life and be alive spiritually but also so that we could live again. While some may argue that living by Christ's teachings may cause life to be restricted, this is not the case. As Christ taught, as we live by his teachings we will not lose any opportunities but rather our lives will be more abundant.
Jesus Christ came that we could have life. He came so that we could live this life and be alive spiritually but also so that we could live again. While some may argue that living by Christ's teachings may cause life to be restricted, this is not the case. As Christ taught, as we live by his teachings we will not lose any opportunities but rather our lives will be more abundant.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Tipping Point
John 18:6, "As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, the went backward, and fell to the ground."
Every time I have read this account, I have wondered why the men who had come to arrest Jesus were astonished and afraid, and therefore fell to the ground. I tried to compare it to other accounts where men fell to the ground such as Alma the Younger, and Lamoni, and the jailer. I was doing a lot of pondering on the subject and came up with this:
Sometimes the wicked desires that we seek do not lead us to where we originally wanted to go. In the process of seeking those desires there comes a moment where the Lord gives us the opportunity to turn back, one last chance so to speak. It is that pivatol moment when both the Lord and Satan work extra hard on us.
Let me explain. In this account with those who were seeking to arrest Jesus, it was a wicked desire. When they finally reached Christ in the olive grove and He named himself to them, they suddenly realized the magnitude of what they were doing. "It hit them", so to speak, that they were finally at that point. Everything they had worked for up until then had been to arrest Jesus and now they were finally there. I think that, in combination with Christ's boldness led them to be afraid and fall to the Earth. In that moment where they were fallen to the Earth, they had the choice to turn back or to go forward and arrest Jesus. I imagine the thoughts that were going through their heads were something akin to a wrestling within themselve whether they truly believed that Christ was not the Messiah and therefore they were justified in arresting Him. Or maybe some were recalling all the stories and miracles that were done by Christ and thinking that even though they had come to arrest him, that now was the time to stop. I call this a "tipping point".
Let me share a particularly poignant example from my own life. I had a desire in my life to be skinny. I worked extra hard to pursue this desire through exercise, healthy eating, and proper sleep. However, it soon turned into an obsession where my appearrance was all I thought about and I ate less and less and exercised more and more. I was diagnosed with anorexia but that didn't stop me. One night I literally fell to the Earth with fatigue; I was very sick, close to death. As I lay on the floor, I realized that I had a choice to make: to live or die. It was in power to choose. I can testify in those few moments when I tried to decide which I wanted more, I have never felt more torn apart. I literally felt Satan and Heavenly Father fighting for me, for my soul. I was at a tipping point, a crossroads. Satan tried to convince me I was too far gone. Heavenly Father tried to convince me that I was worth saving and that I had to rely on Him or I would be lost. I testify that Heavenly Father was there that day, and gave me that one last "tipping point experience" before I was condemned myself to wickedness.
Although some people feel like they are too far gone or too far lost to turn back and choose a more righteous path, I testify that they are not, and that the Lord will always give them a "tipping point" experience, small or large, that will allow them to choose which side they are on.
President Uchtdorf said this of it being too late to turn back,
"Satan, "the father of all lies" (2 Nephi 2:18), "the father of contention" (3 Nephi 11:29), "the author of all sin" (Helaman 6:30), and the "enemy unto God" (Moroni 7:12), uses the forces of evil to convince us that this concept applies whenever we have sinned. The scriptures call him the "accuser" because he wants us to feel that we are beyond forgiveness (see Revelation 12:10). Satan wants us to think that when we have sinned we have gone past a "point of no return"—that it is too late to change our course. In our beautiful but also troubled world, it is a sad reality that this attitude is the source of great sorrow, grief, and distress to families, marriages, and individual lives.
Satan tries to counterfeit the work of God, and by doing this he may deceive many. To make us lose hope, feel miserable like himself, and believe that we are beyond forgiveness, Satan might even misuse words from the scriptures that emphasize the justice of God, in order to imply that there is no mercy.
My dear brothers and sisters, my dear young friends, when the captain of a long-range jet passes the point of safe return, and the headwinds are too strong or the cruising altitudes too low, he might be forced to divert to an airport other than his planned destination. This is not so in our journey through life back to our heavenly home. Wherever you find yourselves on this journey through life, whatever trials you may face, there is always a point of safe return; there is always hope. You are the captain of your life, and God has prepared a plan to bring you safely back to Him, to your divine destination.
The gift of the Atonement of Jesus Christ provides us at all times and at all places with the blessings of repentance and forgiveness. Because of this gift, the opportunity to make a safe return from the disastrous course of sin is available to all of us.
For this I give thanks to our Heavenly Father, and of this I bear testimony with all my heart and soul in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."
Simple Statement of Principle: There are tipping points in almost every sin and trial when we feel too far. It is at those times that the Lord will try His hardest to help us turn back.
Breanna Plooster
Every time I have read this account, I have wondered why the men who had come to arrest Jesus were astonished and afraid, and therefore fell to the ground. I tried to compare it to other accounts where men fell to the ground such as Alma the Younger, and Lamoni, and the jailer. I was doing a lot of pondering on the subject and came up with this:
Sometimes the wicked desires that we seek do not lead us to where we originally wanted to go. In the process of seeking those desires there comes a moment where the Lord gives us the opportunity to turn back, one last chance so to speak. It is that pivatol moment when both the Lord and Satan work extra hard on us.
Let me explain. In this account with those who were seeking to arrest Jesus, it was a wicked desire. When they finally reached Christ in the olive grove and He named himself to them, they suddenly realized the magnitude of what they were doing. "It hit them", so to speak, that they were finally at that point. Everything they had worked for up until then had been to arrest Jesus and now they were finally there. I think that, in combination with Christ's boldness led them to be afraid and fall to the Earth. In that moment where they were fallen to the Earth, they had the choice to turn back or to go forward and arrest Jesus. I imagine the thoughts that were going through their heads were something akin to a wrestling within themselve whether they truly believed that Christ was not the Messiah and therefore they were justified in arresting Him. Or maybe some were recalling all the stories and miracles that were done by Christ and thinking that even though they had come to arrest him, that now was the time to stop. I call this a "tipping point".
Let me share a particularly poignant example from my own life. I had a desire in my life to be skinny. I worked extra hard to pursue this desire through exercise, healthy eating, and proper sleep. However, it soon turned into an obsession where my appearrance was all I thought about and I ate less and less and exercised more and more. I was diagnosed with anorexia but that didn't stop me. One night I literally fell to the Earth with fatigue; I was very sick, close to death. As I lay on the floor, I realized that I had a choice to make: to live or die. It was in power to choose. I can testify in those few moments when I tried to decide which I wanted more, I have never felt more torn apart. I literally felt Satan and Heavenly Father fighting for me, for my soul. I was at a tipping point, a crossroads. Satan tried to convince me I was too far gone. Heavenly Father tried to convince me that I was worth saving and that I had to rely on Him or I would be lost. I testify that Heavenly Father was there that day, and gave me that one last "tipping point experience" before I was condemned myself to wickedness.
Although some people feel like they are too far gone or too far lost to turn back and choose a more righteous path, I testify that they are not, and that the Lord will always give them a "tipping point" experience, small or large, that will allow them to choose which side they are on.
President Uchtdorf said this of it being too late to turn back,
"Satan, "the father of all lies" (2 Nephi 2:18), "the father of contention" (3 Nephi 11:29), "the author of all sin" (Helaman 6:30), and the "enemy unto God" (Moroni 7:12), uses the forces of evil to convince us that this concept applies whenever we have sinned. The scriptures call him the "accuser" because he wants us to feel that we are beyond forgiveness (see Revelation 12:10). Satan wants us to think that when we have sinned we have gone past a "point of no return"—that it is too late to change our course. In our beautiful but also troubled world, it is a sad reality that this attitude is the source of great sorrow, grief, and distress to families, marriages, and individual lives.
Satan tries to counterfeit the work of God, and by doing this he may deceive many. To make us lose hope, feel miserable like himself, and believe that we are beyond forgiveness, Satan might even misuse words from the scriptures that emphasize the justice of God, in order to imply that there is no mercy.
My dear brothers and sisters, my dear young friends, when the captain of a long-range jet passes the point of safe return, and the headwinds are too strong or the cruising altitudes too low, he might be forced to divert to an airport other than his planned destination. This is not so in our journey through life back to our heavenly home. Wherever you find yourselves on this journey through life, whatever trials you may face, there is always a point of safe return; there is always hope. You are the captain of your life, and God has prepared a plan to bring you safely back to Him, to your divine destination.
The gift of the Atonement of Jesus Christ provides us at all times and at all places with the blessings of repentance and forgiveness. Because of this gift, the opportunity to make a safe return from the disastrous course of sin is available to all of us.
For this I give thanks to our Heavenly Father, and of this I bear testimony with all my heart and soul in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."
Simple Statement of Principle: There are tipping points in almost every sin and trial when we feel too far. It is at those times that the Lord will try His hardest to help us turn back.
Breanna Plooster
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Thankful for Christ
I couldn't let the Thanksgiving season pass without expressing my gratitude for our Savior, Jesus Christ. Reading about his last hours this past week, I could not help but be overcome by the love He had for his apostles, for the Jews, and for the world. I feel an ever-strengthening testimony that He is the Son of God and that he voluntarily suffered so much because He truly loved us. I think about the small sacrifices I make for my family and for my husband and I sometimes I grumble and groan about silly little things. I know that one of the reasons the Savior lived on this Earth was because we needed an example to follow, someone to look to for direction in everything. I love calling upon Him to be my example because somehow, someway, I find strength and an iron will that I did not posess before. I love Him and someday I want to look into His eyes and tell Him "Thank you for loving me, for never giving up on me, and for buoying me up when I was drowning."
So the simple statement of prinicple is, "Jesus Christ is our example in all things. Look to Him and we will find unknown strength to endure and have joy in this life."
I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Breanna Plooster
So the simple statement of prinicple is, "Jesus Christ is our example in all things. Look to Him and we will find unknown strength to endure and have joy in this life."
I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Breanna Plooster
Monday, December 1, 2008
A More Determined Discipleship
Over the Thanksgiving break I had the opportunity to reflect on the blessings of having a latter- day living prophet in who we can find so much guidance. I found this article and thought it perfect regarding the recent proposition 8 ordeal and wanted to share it.
A More Determined Discipleship
By Elder Neal A. MaxwellAn address delivered at Brigham Young University, 10 October 1978
"Discipleship includes good citizenship. In this connection, if you are a careful student of the statements of the modern prophets, you will have noticed that with rare exceptions—especially when the First Presidency has spoken out—the concerns expressed have been over moral issues, not issues between political parties. The declarations are about principles, not people; and causes, not candidates. On occasions, at other levels in the Church, a few have not been so discreet, so wise, or so inspired.
Make no mistake about it, brothers and sisters, in the months and years ahead, events are likely to require each member to decide whether or not he will follow the First Presidency. Members will find it more difficult to halt longer between two opinions. (See 1 Kgs. 18:21.)
President Marion G. Romney said, many years ago, that he had “never hesitated to follow the counsel of the Authorities of the Church even though it crossed my social, professional or political life” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1941, p. 123). This is a hard doctrine, but it is a particularly vital doctrine in a society which is becoming more wicked. In short, brothers and sisters, not being ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ includes not being ashamed of the prophets of Jesus Christ!
We are now entering a time of incredible ironies. Let us cite but one of these ironies which is yet in its subtle stages: We will see a maximum, if indirect, effort made to establish irreligion as the state religion. It is actually a new form of paganism which uses the carefully preserved and cultivated freedoms of western civilization to shrink freedom, even as it rejects the value essence of our rich Judeo-Christian heritage."
Sunday, November 30, 2008
With God, nothing is impossible
Matthew 19:26
"...with God all things are possible."
We can take comfort knowing that nothing is impossible if the Lord is with us.
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin said, "No doubt, you young men have learned that obedience is not always easy. In fact, it can sometimes seem stifling, uncomfortable, or even impossible. 'But with God all things are possible.' You can be obedient. You can defeat Satan and overcome temptation." As we trust in the Lord and his infinite power, we can know that he will not allow us to suffer beyond our capacity, nor will he leave us stranded, but will come to us and bear us up in our adversity.
"...with God all things are possible."
We can take comfort knowing that nothing is impossible if the Lord is with us.
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin said, "No doubt, you young men have learned that obedience is not always easy. In fact, it can sometimes seem stifling, uncomfortable, or even impossible. 'But with God all things are possible.' You can be obedient. You can defeat Satan and overcome temptation." As we trust in the Lord and his infinite power, we can know that he will not allow us to suffer beyond our capacity, nor will he leave us stranded, but will come to us and bear us up in our adversity.
Testimony
Matthew 16:13-17
"When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?
And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.
He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven."
A testimony is not gained by earthly experiences, but by sacred spiritual circumstances which give us an assurance that no worldly witness could give.
Charles Didier said, "The purpose of these spiritual keys is to open spiritual doors, one by one, to come to a plain testimony as described by the prophets. Spiritual ashes might be all that are left of what was once a burning, loving, meaningful, and uplifting testimony." This means that we need to continue having these spiritual experiences that the Lord offers us so that we can strengthen our testimonies.
"When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?
And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.
He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven."
A testimony is not gained by earthly experiences, but by sacred spiritual circumstances which give us an assurance that no worldly witness could give.
Charles Didier said, "The purpose of these spiritual keys is to open spiritual doors, one by one, to come to a plain testimony as described by the prophets. Spiritual ashes might be all that are left of what was once a burning, loving, meaningful, and uplifting testimony." This means that we need to continue having these spiritual experiences that the Lord offers us so that we can strengthen our testimonies.
The teachings of the Savior are for everyone
"He that hath ears to hear, let him hear" Matthew 13:9,43
Our understanding of the Savior's parables is limited only by our own efforts to understand what he will teach us.
The Prophet Joseph Smith said: “The multitude … received not His saying … because they were not willing to see with their eyes, and hear with their ears; not because they could not, and were not privileged to see and hear, but because their hearts were full of iniquity and abominations. … The very reason why the multitude … did not receive an explanation upon His parables, was because of unbelief”
Our understanding of the Savior's parables is limited only by our own efforts to understand what he will teach us.
The Prophet Joseph Smith said: “The multitude … received not His saying … because they were not willing to see with their eyes, and hear with their ears; not because they could not, and were not privileged to see and hear, but because their hearts were full of iniquity and abominations. … The very reason why the multitude … did not receive an explanation upon His parables, was because of unbelief”
Coming unto Christ
Matthew 11:28-30
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
When we walk side by side with the Savior and his teachings, we have a much greater capacity to bear the trials and problems that we encounter in our lives.
Just as one ox pulling alongside another, we need to align ourselves and our lives with the Savior's. If we 'take his yoke upon us,' he will help us pull our load and make our burdens lighter and easier than if we were trying to shoulder them alone.
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
When we walk side by side with the Savior and his teachings, we have a much greater capacity to bear the trials and problems that we encounter in our lives.
Just as one ox pulling alongside another, we need to align ourselves and our lives with the Savior's. If we 'take his yoke upon us,' he will help us pull our load and make our burdens lighter and easier than if we were trying to shoulder them alone.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Take Up HIs Cross
Luke 9:23-24
23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
If we will deny ourselves and become like Christ this promise is valid for all of us. While it is difficult to deny ourselves entirely and follow Him, it is a pre-requisite for entering the Kingdom and we will "save" our lives.
23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
If we will deny ourselves and become like Christ this promise is valid for all of us. While it is difficult to deny ourselves entirely and follow Him, it is a pre-requisite for entering the Kingdom and we will "save" our lives.
Responding to criticisms
In Luke 20-19-26 the chief priests try to catch Jesus in his words by asking him about giving tributes to Caesar. Christ was able to correctly respond to their inquiry and he know what the intent of their hearts was.
In dealing with others it is important to know that the Lord is omnipotent and he will help us in answering questions and criticisms about our beliefs.
Elder Hales said in the October 2008 General Conference of the church:
"As we respond to others, each circumstance will be different. Fortunately, the Lord knows the hearts of our accusers and how we can most effectively respond to them."
In dealing with others it is important to know that the Lord is omnipotent and he will help us in answering questions and criticisms about our beliefs.
Elder Hales said in the October 2008 General Conference of the church:
"As we respond to others, each circumstance will be different. Fortunately, the Lord knows the hearts of our accusers and how we can most effectively respond to them."
Gratitude
As we approach this Thanksgiving season I find it appropriate to examine Luke 17:11-19, the story of the lepers that are healed.
It is important to remember that we are always grateful and offer thanksgiving. There was a difference in these verses about being made clean and made whole. We can only be made whole by having faith and then having gratitude. While all 10 lepers were healed, there was only one that was made whole.
Matthew Abinante
It is important to remember that we are always grateful and offer thanksgiving. There was a difference in these verses about being made clean and made whole. We can only be made whole by having faith and then having gratitude. While all 10 lepers were healed, there was only one that was made whole.
Matthew Abinante
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Sinning for more love?
Luke 7
41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.
42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?
43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.
… the illusion that they are somehow stronger for having committed sin
and then lived through the period of repentance. This simply is not
true. That man who resists temptation and lives without sin is far
better off than the man who has fallen, no matter how repentant the
latter may be. - Kimball
It is important to remember that we don't have to sin in order to be loved by Christ. He loves everyone and we would be better off to not sin at all.
Matthew Abinante
41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.
42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?
43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.
… the illusion that they are somehow stronger for having committed sin
and then lived through the period of repentance. This simply is not
true. That man who resists temptation and lives without sin is far
better off than the man who has fallen, no matter how repentant the
latter may be. - Kimball
It is important to remember that we don't have to sin in order to be loved by Christ. He loves everyone and we would be better off to not sin at all.
Matthew Abinante
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
By Subtilty
Matthew 26:4, "And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtility, and kill him."
As I was pondering this verse, I realized that this is the way that Satan works most often. I was thinking about the Gadianton robbers in the Book of Mormon and how he just whispered and convinced one person, and then that person convinced others. And Satan still works this way in the Latter-days. For example, I was thinking about Obama being elected president and how those who oppose hom solely based on race, are subtly attacking other blacks just to show how much they hate Obama.
I realized that Satan does not like to strike out in the open, especially not at first, because then no one will listen to him. For faithful Latter-day Saints especially, if Satan tried to convince us to commit adultry, we would blantantly refuse him, but when he strikes at our thoughts first, we tend to fall into sin.
That got me to thinking about how to stop Satan. I believe that one of the most important ways to stop him is recognize how he will attack us, and according to this verse, he will strike subtly first. Because of that we must "jealously guard our thoughts". I don't know how many of you have read "The Host" by Stephanie Meyer, but I believe that many of the things she described in that book are so true of human nature...it is our thoughts that really dictate who we are and how we are going to act. It is impossible to think one way and act sincerely another way for very long and eventually our thoughts will will out and dictate our actions.
Breanna Plooster
As I was pondering this verse, I realized that this is the way that Satan works most often. I was thinking about the Gadianton robbers in the Book of Mormon and how he just whispered and convinced one person, and then that person convinced others. And Satan still works this way in the Latter-days. For example, I was thinking about Obama being elected president and how those who oppose hom solely based on race, are subtly attacking other blacks just to show how much they hate Obama.
I realized that Satan does not like to strike out in the open, especially not at first, because then no one will listen to him. For faithful Latter-day Saints especially, if Satan tried to convince us to commit adultry, we would blantantly refuse him, but when he strikes at our thoughts first, we tend to fall into sin.
That got me to thinking about how to stop Satan. I believe that one of the most important ways to stop him is recognize how he will attack us, and according to this verse, he will strike subtly first. Because of that we must "jealously guard our thoughts". I don't know how many of you have read "The Host" by Stephanie Meyer, but I believe that many of the things she described in that book are so true of human nature...it is our thoughts that really dictate who we are and how we are going to act. It is impossible to think one way and act sincerely another way for very long and eventually our thoughts will will out and dictate our actions.
Breanna Plooster
Another Comforter
John 14
16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another aComforter, that he may babide with you for ever; 18 I will not leave you acomfortless: I will bcome to you.
In a world that demonstrates, ever more powerfully, the damaging effects of the great apostasy the Lord's promise to never leave us comfortless resounds. Just before the Lord's last days on the earth, he leaves the apostles (and inevitably us) with the promise of having the gift of the Holy Ghost as a guide, giver of truth and another comforter. The world at this time period was on the edge of the inevitable great apostasy...but the Lord did not leave "His people" without a guide and source of truth.
It does not surprise me that in 1820 a young boy Joseph was touched by the spirit of God when he read the infamous passage in James 1:5. This is just another testimonial to the perfectness of the plan of God. It was by that same comforter, promised by Jesus Christ, that caused the passage of scripture to penetrated Joseph's heart and then prompted the young boy to enter those woods that beautiful spring morning.
16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another aComforter, that he may babide with you for ever;
17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
In a world that demonstrates, ever more powerfully, the damaging effects of the great apostasy the Lord's promise to never leave us comfortless resounds. Just before the Lord's last days on the earth, he leaves the apostles (and inevitably us) with the promise of having the gift of the Holy Ghost as a guide, giver of truth and another comforter. The world at this time period was on the edge of the inevitable great apostasy...but the Lord did not leave "His people" without a guide and source of truth.
It does not surprise me that in 1820 a young boy Joseph was touched by the spirit of God when he read the infamous passage in James 1:5. This is just another testimonial to the perfectness of the plan of God. It was by that same comforter, promised by Jesus Christ, that caused the passage of scripture to penetrated Joseph's heart and then prompted the young boy to enter those woods that beautiful spring morning.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
True Devotion
Mathew 19:
29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
30 But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.
This passage of scripture reflects the concept of complete devotion to the work of the Lord. To help me understand it more fully I found the following quote given by President Marion G. Romney (Marion G. Romney, “Commitment and Dedication,” Ensign, Mar 1983, 3). It has helped me understand that I do not need to give up my daily pursuits unless I am called to do so and that my true latter-day saint devotion can be shown in my constant daily obedience.
“Now I am not suggesting that we all give up our daily pursuits and devote full time to the ministry. This we do only as we are called. What I am trying to say is that we should gain a knowledge of the plan of salvation and a realization that it is the only way to peace and happiness in this world and eternal life in the world to come. We should make a total commitment to, above everything else, convey by word and deed our knowledge and testimony to our fellowmen, that they may receive and rejoice in it."
"Through studying the scriptures, we should know what the Lord has revealed through his prophets concerning the plan of salvation. From regular night and morning prayer and honest compliance with gospel teachings, we should enjoy the peace and spirit of the gospel. By earnestly and specifically seeking it, we should, by the power of the Holy Ghost, obtain and retain a testimony of its divine truth. We should be so converted and dedicated to it that our total lives are influenced thereby. The right and wrong of our decisions and actions should be consistently determined by its light. If they were, we would make no mistakes in our judgments and actions on the vexing questions and problems of our day.”
- Marion G. Romney, “Commitment and Dedication,” Ensign, Mar 1983, 3
29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
30 But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.
This passage of scripture reflects the concept of complete devotion to the work of the Lord. To help me understand it more fully I found the following quote given by President Marion G. Romney (Marion G. Romney, “Commitment and Dedication,” Ensign, Mar 1983, 3). It has helped me understand that I do not need to give up my daily pursuits unless I am called to do so and that my true latter-day saint devotion can be shown in my constant daily obedience.
“Now I am not suggesting that we all give up our daily pursuits and devote full time to the ministry. This we do only as we are called. What I am trying to say is that we should gain a knowledge of the plan of salvation and a realization that it is the only way to peace and happiness in this world and eternal life in the world to come. We should make a total commitment to, above everything else, convey by word and deed our knowledge and testimony to our fellowmen, that they may receive and rejoice in it."
"Through studying the scriptures, we should know what the Lord has revealed through his prophets concerning the plan of salvation. From regular night and morning prayer and honest compliance with gospel teachings, we should enjoy the peace and spirit of the gospel. By earnestly and specifically seeking it, we should, by the power of the Holy Ghost, obtain and retain a testimony of its divine truth. We should be so converted and dedicated to it that our total lives are influenced thereby. The right and wrong of our decisions and actions should be consistently determined by its light. If they were, we would make no mistakes in our judgments and actions on the vexing questions and problems of our day.”
- Marion G. Romney, “Commitment and Dedication,” Ensign, Mar 1983, 3
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
The Good Samaritan: Forgotten Symbols
It was a neat experience for me this week in institute to begin to explore the parable of the good Samaritan in an out of the ordinary manner. After reading through the Ensign article "The Good Samaritan: Forgotten Symbols" several new interesting ideas came into my mind. First of all because of the high risk of being attacked by robbers while traveling in the ancient world, people would have rarely traveled alone, as the characters in the parable of the good Samaritan do. This for me is symbolic of the principle that salvation is something personal. Just as the "man" came down from Jerusalem (what could be considered the presence of God) we too travel to our earthly experience to be tried and proven alone. Just as the other characters acted and made decisions alone, so must we use are agency personally. But it is important to know that just as the "man" needed the good sameritan, so we must have faith in the Lord's aid to carry our burdens and ultimatlly pay the debt for those times in our lives when we fall into "thieves".
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Protect Our Children
Matthew 18:6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
It is apparent that there is a special place in the Lord's heart for our little children. Both in the New Testament and Book of Mormon, Christ called the little ones to come unto him and told us to all become like them.
I believe there are many ways in which to offend one of the little ones. Besides the obvious cases of abuse, I feel that failure to properly train our children is also an offense to the Lord.
It is important for us to do all that we can and sacrifice our whole lives to rearing our children and showing them the right way to go.
Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
It is apparent that there is a special place in the Lord's heart for our little children. Both in the New Testament and Book of Mormon, Christ called the little ones to come unto him and told us to all become like them.
I believe there are many ways in which to offend one of the little ones. Besides the obvious cases of abuse, I feel that failure to properly train our children is also an offense to the Lord.
It is important for us to do all that we can and sacrifice our whole lives to rearing our children and showing them the right way to go.
Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
The Bread of Life
John 6:
33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.
35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
48 I am that bread of life.
I was struck again by the parallel Christ dictated between Himself and this life sustaining sustenance. What power there is in this passage! The Lord states that He came down from heaven to GIVE life, to offer up Himself as ransom and to spiritually “feed” the faithful unto eternal life. It is interesting to view the distinction the Savior makes between the bread of life and the living water (early self referred to, in the story of the woman at the well). It is inferred that first one must believe and then they shall never thirst. Secondly it is inferred that one must come unto Him and he shall never hunger.
This second reference implies complete dedication and a devotion of ones will. “He that cometh to me shall never hunger” is a statement implicating an action of drawing close ones life to that of the Saviors. Just as bread takes careful and time consuming preparation; from the planting of the wheat, to the eventual harvest and then to the watchful cooking of the prepared dough, we too must make our lives a carefully watched time consuming dedication. Christ promises the faithful that if they come unto Him they will never hunger; for His bread is eternal and His atonement infinite.
33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.
35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
48 I am that bread of life.
I was struck again by the parallel Christ dictated between Himself and this life sustaining sustenance. What power there is in this passage! The Lord states that He came down from heaven to GIVE life, to offer up Himself as ransom and to spiritually “feed” the faithful unto eternal life. It is interesting to view the distinction the Savior makes between the bread of life and the living water (early self referred to, in the story of the woman at the well). It is inferred that first one must believe and then they shall never thirst. Secondly it is inferred that one must come unto Him and he shall never hunger.
This second reference implies complete dedication and a devotion of ones will. “He that cometh to me shall never hunger” is a statement implicating an action of drawing close ones life to that of the Saviors. Just as bread takes careful and time consuming preparation; from the planting of the wheat, to the eventual harvest and then to the watchful cooking of the prepared dough, we too must make our lives a carefully watched time consuming dedication. Christ promises the faithful that if they come unto Him they will never hunger; for His bread is eternal and His atonement infinite.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
In a "Desert Place"
I was just reflecting on the feeding of the 5000 in Luke 9:10-17.
In verse 12 it says, "for we are here in a desert place."
I was struck for a minute because I don't believe I really ever made that connection. When Christ, the Twelve, and the multitude were in the desert, He believed that it was right to feed them. I was thinking spiritually and wondering if too many times we find ourselves in desert places and yet we only think about getting food and water for ourselves. I think it very interesting that even though they were all in the desert, Christ saw fit to feed them all. When we are in spiritual desert places, when our testimony seems dormant, when we just can't get much out of our scripture reading, we should do as Christ did and try to feed others who need it just as badly as we do. I think that just as the apostles' faith was strengthed because Christ fed the 5000, our faith, testimony, and love for others will grow if we try to feed others even if it is with our little simple testimonies. I mean, Jesus did feed the 5000 with only 2 fishes and 5 loaves.
The simple statement of principle: When we are spiritually thirsty, try giving others a drink first and our thirst will disappear.
Breanna Plooster
In verse 12 it says, "for we are here in a desert place."
I was struck for a minute because I don't believe I really ever made that connection. When Christ, the Twelve, and the multitude were in the desert, He believed that it was right to feed them. I was thinking spiritually and wondering if too many times we find ourselves in desert places and yet we only think about getting food and water for ourselves. I think it very interesting that even though they were all in the desert, Christ saw fit to feed them all. When we are in spiritual desert places, when our testimony seems dormant, when we just can't get much out of our scripture reading, we should do as Christ did and try to feed others who need it just as badly as we do. I think that just as the apostles' faith was strengthed because Christ fed the 5000, our faith, testimony, and love for others will grow if we try to feed others even if it is with our little simple testimonies. I mean, Jesus did feed the 5000 with only 2 fishes and 5 loaves.
The simple statement of principle: When we are spiritually thirsty, try giving others a drink first and our thirst will disappear.
Breanna Plooster
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Judgment
Matthew 7
1 Judge not, that ye be not judged.
1 Judge not, that ye be not judged.
2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.
3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?
John 8
15 Ye judge after the flesh; I judge no man.
John 8
15 Ye judge after the flesh; I judge no man.
16 And yet if I judge, my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me.
Many people justify what Jesus said here to judge others. It is important to remember what Christ says in Matt. 7:2. The judgments that we place on others will come back to us.
If Christ judges no man after the flesh, it is my feeling that we should withhold judgment unless we are absolutely justified and know the whole story as it is difficult to understand the whole story and what is in the hearts of others.
Many people justify what Jesus said here to judge others. It is important to remember what Christ says in Matt. 7:2. The judgments that we place on others will come back to us.
If Christ judges no man after the flesh, it is my feeling that we should withhold judgment unless we are absolutely justified and know the whole story as it is difficult to understand the whole story and what is in the hearts of others.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
"Thou canst make me clean."
I was unable to attend Tuesday night's class and I am sure a good follow up discussion regarding conference weekend. During my readings the last 2 weeks I have studied again a scriptural story I have read probably a dozen or so times; the healing of the leper in Mathew's account (Matt. 8:1-4). This time, however, its personal application filled me with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for my Savior Jesus Christ. The scripture passage reads:
1 When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.
2 And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.
3 And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.
The faith of this humble leper was truly amazing. He trusted in the healing power of the Savior and knew that if it was the will of the Lord he would instantly be made clean. During this time period a leper was banned from society and forced to live in a community of other inflicted persons. It was usual for a leper to ring a bell to warn others of his coming. This particular leper would have followed similar attempts to warn others so as to not make "unclean" those who passed near. His act of humble faith (that of coming to and trusting in the Lord) led to his immediate and whole cleansing.
I am in awe of the love and compassion the Savior must have had for this man; the same love he has for all who humbly come to Him to be made clean. The Masters response to the leper's appeal ..."I will"... reflects the ready desire of the Savior to heal all through His infinite atonement. The word "immediately" also catches my attention. It seems often that I become frustrated with the fact that I am not perfect now and that I must continually struggle forward. The atonement's effects however are immediate upon grounds of true and faithful repentance. As I do fully repent I am made clean immediately. I stand all amazed at the Savior's love and mercy. I do know that He lives and stands ready to make all clean again. I love Him, want to serve Him and hope to aid in furthering His effort to heal all the "sick and afflicted" souls of men.
1 When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.
2 And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.
3 And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.
The faith of this humble leper was truly amazing. He trusted in the healing power of the Savior and knew that if it was the will of the Lord he would instantly be made clean. During this time period a leper was banned from society and forced to live in a community of other inflicted persons. It was usual for a leper to ring a bell to warn others of his coming. This particular leper would have followed similar attempts to warn others so as to not make "unclean" those who passed near. His act of humble faith (that of coming to and trusting in the Lord) led to his immediate and whole cleansing.
I am in awe of the love and compassion the Savior must have had for this man; the same love he has for all who humbly come to Him to be made clean. The Masters response to the leper's appeal ..."I will"... reflects the ready desire of the Savior to heal all through His infinite atonement. The word "immediately" also catches my attention. It seems often that I become frustrated with the fact that I am not perfect now and that I must continually struggle forward. The atonement's effects however are immediate upon grounds of true and faithful repentance. As I do fully repent I am made clean immediately. I stand all amazed at the Savior's love and mercy. I do know that He lives and stands ready to make all clean again. I love Him, want to serve Him and hope to aid in furthering His effort to heal all the "sick and afflicted" souls of men.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Conference Traditions
In my family, we have always had a tradition for all of the "men" in the family to go out for ice cream following the priesthood session of conference. It has always been a great opportunity for us to discuss the things we have learned. It was also a great family bonding opportunity for me, my brothers, and my dad.
Gladly Received
In Matthew 8:40 it says that the people recieved Jesus "gladly". And, I couldn't help think about General Conference and how some people, and even sometimes me, grumble at the things the prophets ask of us...I do family home evening, but I really hate it because I would rather be sleeping, things like that. For some of the simplest commandments, I grumble and groan, and follow them grudgingly. I want to change that and be like the people who "gladly" received Jesus. I am sure that many of the people did not know Jesus personally and did not know exactly what He was going to teach them, but they were glad that He was there and received His words gladly. I do not know President Monson personally and I certainly do not know everything that he is going to say, but I am sure that when I sustain him as President of this Church I need to follow his counsel and commandments willingly, with a glad heart.
I've decided that I need an attitude change and I am sure that with this dedication to follow the prophet's counsel gladly, I will develop a greater love and respect for the counsel given. So, the simple statement of principle is: Receive gladly the words of the prophets, both living and from the scriptures.
Breanna Plooster
I've decided that I need an attitude change and I am sure that with this dedication to follow the prophet's counsel gladly, I will develop a greater love and respect for the counsel given. So, the simple statement of principle is: Receive gladly the words of the prophets, both living and from the scriptures.
Breanna Plooster
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
"Righteous Traditions"
GENERAL CONFERENCE! I love general conference.
A tradition that I will never forget is that each April conference, my father would take one of us children to the Conference Center in Salt Lake. And since we lived in Connecticut at the time, it was a big trip. We would spend the whole weekend in Utah, taking the time to walk around temple square and go to the Joseph Smith Building. It was also really special because my father would only take one of us at a time. This way, we each had a chance to bond with our father and share our testimony of what the Brethren were saying. It was a great and tender one-on-one experience of bonding and building of testimony that I will carry for the rest of my life.
And... just last Conference in April, my father flew here with my youngest brother to attend Conference. He got tickets for my husband and me too, and it was a specially significant experience. As we were walking home from the Conference Center, my father pulled me aside and with tears in his eyes, he told me that he knew I was going to be a good mother someday. He said that during Elder Ballard's talk "Daughters of God" he had a distinct impression that I was going to be a good mother if I followed Elder Ballard's counsel. I will never forget that.
Breanna Plooster
A tradition that I will never forget is that each April conference, my father would take one of us children to the Conference Center in Salt Lake. And since we lived in Connecticut at the time, it was a big trip. We would spend the whole weekend in Utah, taking the time to walk around temple square and go to the Joseph Smith Building. It was also really special because my father would only take one of us at a time. This way, we each had a chance to bond with our father and share our testimony of what the Brethren were saying. It was a great and tender one-on-one experience of bonding and building of testimony that I will carry for the rest of my life.
And... just last Conference in April, my father flew here with my youngest brother to attend Conference. He got tickets for my husband and me too, and it was a specially significant experience. As we were walking home from the Conference Center, my father pulled me aside and with tears in his eyes, he told me that he knew I was going to be a good mother someday. He said that during Elder Ballard's talk "Daughters of God" he had a distinct impression that I was going to be a good mother if I followed Elder Ballard's counsel. I will never forget that.
Breanna Plooster
Getting the Most out of General Conference
I too love this time of year and am so excited for this upcoming weekend. It seems the older I get the more excited I become about General Conference. It has become a sort of "super bowl" event for me. I have been thinking for sometime what "traditions" we have done as a family in the past to prepare for General Conference. So here we go:
1. Along with each months new edition of the ensign we keep the last General Conference edition...so we can constantly return and read the 6 month focuses. I also listen to past conference talks in the car as I travel for work.
2. We try to focus the FHE before and after Conference on the importance of listening and heeding the words of the Lords servants.
3. When I was a child my parents made an effort to come up with a type of conference game to keep us envolved in the talks. Conference bingo...etc.
4. I have found now that if I am in sunday dress ( it's hard for me to not to be in shorts and a t-shirt at home) and have materials for note taking; I get so much more out of conference.
1. Along with each months new edition of the ensign we keep the last General Conference edition...so we can constantly return and read the 6 month focuses. I also listen to past conference talks in the car as I travel for work.
2. We try to focus the FHE before and after Conference on the importance of listening and heeding the words of the Lords servants.
3. When I was a child my parents made an effort to come up with a type of conference game to keep us envolved in the talks. Conference bingo...etc.
4. I have found now that if I am in sunday dress ( it's hard for me to not to be in shorts and a t-shirt at home) and have materials for note taking; I get so much more out of conference.
Monday, September 29, 2008
All things testify of Christ
As I read of all of the miracles, time and time again, realize the symbolism which point to the Savior and his role that he would play here on earth. This time, I was reading in John 2:2-11. As I read, I noticed an interesting parallelism. The Savior took the pots that had contained the old wine, and he filled them with new wine which was better than the first. In the same way, the Savior came to earth to fill mankind with the "new wine" of his gospel. It came where there had previously only been the "old wine", the law of Moses, and brought in its place the Gospel of Jesus Christ that is a better and higher law teaching more than just obedience, but principles of righteousness.
Making the Most of Conference
Hello all! It is a favorite time of year, the leaves are changing and we get to hear from out inspired leaders (BYU is playing the Aggies, I am from Cache Valley so this is a big game!). To help one another get more out of conference for the next six months I hope to have you folks comment or post what you or your family as done in the past to make it a fun spiritual experience! I want some good ideas to practice or even make tradition with my wife and boys!
Here is mine. I like to run, trouble is it takes time. So to justify my time investment in running I have been "Running with the Bretheren" for the last four years. Meaning I put their talks onto my iPod then I listen to them while I run. You might be wanting to heave as you think about physical exertion and conference, that it would be boring, but it has helped me to focus on the words and messagesmore than on the pain my body is feeling. I promise that it was conference that got me through my first marathon! Maybe this doesn't help us for this weekend, but "Running with the Bretheren" has truly been a blessed expereince! All but the priesthood talks are available within a week after conference. I buy the CD's so I can have the priesthood talks too. Happy posting!
Here is mine. I like to run, trouble is it takes time. So to justify my time investment in running I have been "Running with the Bretheren" for the last four years. Meaning I put their talks onto my iPod then I listen to them while I run. You might be wanting to heave as you think about physical exertion and conference, that it would be boring, but it has helped me to focus on the words and messagesmore than on the pain my body is feeling. I promise that it was conference that got me through my first marathon! Maybe this doesn't help us for this weekend, but "Running with the Bretheren" has truly been a blessed expereince! All but the priesthood talks are available within a week after conference. I buy the CD's so I can have the priesthood talks too. Happy posting!
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Savior's Humility and Faith
In John Chapter 2 we learn of the marriage feast that Christ attends. When Christ is informed that there is no wine to drink for the feast, Christ turns water into wine.
6 And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.
It is interesting to note how the Savior works his miracles. He does not gallivant for others to see. He did not make the wine and run to the governor himself to show how powerful he was. He was meek and humble. His faith and humility is an example for all to follow.
It is important in our faith to be humble and then great things will come about.
Matthew Abinante
6 And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.
7 Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.
8 And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.
It is interesting to note how the Savior works his miracles. He does not gallivant for others to see. He did not make the wine and run to the governor himself to show how powerful he was. He was meek and humble. His faith and humility is an example for all to follow.
It is important in our faith to be humble and then great things will come about.
Matthew Abinante
Monday, September 22, 2008
Work of God
Mark 1:14 No matter what happens, the work of God must go forth and we need to be a part of that effort. I thought of this because even though John, Jesus' cousin was in prison, Christ still "preached the Gospel of the kingdom of God." It reminded me so much of the story in Church History where one night Joseph Smith was tarred and feathered by a mob and the next day he still came to church and taught the people even when he was hurt and beaten. The mobbers in the crowd didn't expect to see him, but Joseph knew that the work of God must go forth. I thought of everyday life when sometimes I feel too tired to answer a spiritual prompting because it requires sacrifice on my part. When I do that, I am denying others and myself of God's work.
Friday, September 19, 2008
ST JOHN
CHAPTER 3
13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.
I was impresed with this simple statement of truth taught here in John 3: 13 "A central componant to the eternal plan of happiness is reflected in the concept that all men must come to earth, here gain a body and pass through the trial of life before returning to "heaven".
CHAPTER 3
13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.
I was impresed with this simple statement of truth taught here in John 3: 13 "A central componant to the eternal plan of happiness is reflected in the concept that all men must come to earth, here gain a body and pass through the trial of life before returning to "heaven".
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Our Savior
Matthew 1:21 "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins."(Emphasis added)
There are many around us that are emphatic that Christ will save us from our sins regardless of how we live. This is just not the case. Grace vs. works seemed to be the most debated topic during my days in the Philippines as a missionary. As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we believe in being saved by grace, after all that we can do. We need not forget about the grace of Christ and that he is indeed our savior but we must do what we can to follow him. If we love him we will keep his commandments and truly try to become like him.
From the beginning of the New Testament our Heavenly Father has made it clear to us that Jesus is "the way, the truth and the life" and he will save us FROM our sins to "cometh unto the Father" after all we can do. (John 14:6)
Moses 5:15 "And as many as believed in the Son, and repented of their sins, should be saved; and as many as believed not and repented not, should be damned; and the words went forth out of the mouth of God in a firm decree; wherefore they must be fulfilled."
Matthew Abinante
There are many around us that are emphatic that Christ will save us from our sins regardless of how we live. This is just not the case. Grace vs. works seemed to be the most debated topic during my days in the Philippines as a missionary. As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we believe in being saved by grace, after all that we can do. We need not forget about the grace of Christ and that he is indeed our savior but we must do what we can to follow him. If we love him we will keep his commandments and truly try to become like him.
From the beginning of the New Testament our Heavenly Father has made it clear to us that Jesus is "the way, the truth and the life" and he will save us FROM our sins to "cometh unto the Father" after all we can do. (John 14:6)
Moses 5:15 "And as many as believed in the Son, and repented of their sins, should be saved; and as many as believed not and repented not, should be damned; and the words went forth out of the mouth of God in a firm decree; wherefore they must be fulfilled."
Matthew Abinante
Thursday, September 11, 2008
"A student of divine Revelation"
Matthew ch.1- After reflecting over the mentioned chapter I was amazed with the character of the man Joseph; the Saviors earthly "foster" father. He was a choice man and forordained to his ministry, as was the Savior. Matthew 1:19-24 taught me this important statement of principle reflected in Joseph's life:
"A student of divine revelation must first take thought upon the matter in question and then have complete dedication in the fulfilling of the recieved direction." - Joshua McCune
"A student of divine revelation must first take thought upon the matter in question and then have complete dedication in the fulfilling of the recieved direction." - Joshua McCune
"The Carrying Away Into Babylon"
Matthew 1:17
"So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations."
Matthew may not get his numbers correct (there are not exactly fourteen generations between each of these time-markers), but he does tell us something interesting about Jewish culture (and religious culture in general) with his referencing "the carrying away into Babylon" as though it were a valid and acknowledged marker of time.
Note this quote from a talk that President Spencer W. Kimball gave:
“When you look in the dictionary for the most important word, do you know what it is? It could be ‘remember.’ Because all of [us] have made covenants … our greatest need is to remember. That is why everyone goes to sacrament meeting every Sabbath day—to take the sacrament and listen to the priests pray that [we] ‘… may always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given [us].’ … ‘Remember’ is the word” (Circles of Exaltation [address to religious educators, Brigham Young University, 28 June 1968], 8).
Remembering is, in fact, essential. Many of the prophets, if not all, have counseled as Alma the Younger did his son Helamen, "I would that ye should do as I have done, in remembering the captivity of our fathers; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it was the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and he surely did deliver them in their afflictions."
What Matthew shows us unwittingly through his simple acknowledgement of the captivity in Babylon is that the Jews remembered this captivity, and even had it on their genealogy. It was an event ingrained within the annals of their culture, and it is, quite obviously, a marker of remembrance. We could do more to have such markers in our lives. When was the last time the Lord has led me out of captivity (spiritually or emotionally)? And have I sufficiently retained it in remembrance, marking it as a major event that has changed my life?
"So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations."
Matthew may not get his numbers correct (there are not exactly fourteen generations between each of these time-markers), but he does tell us something interesting about Jewish culture (and religious culture in general) with his referencing "the carrying away into Babylon" as though it were a valid and acknowledged marker of time.
Note this quote from a talk that President Spencer W. Kimball gave:
“When you look in the dictionary for the most important word, do you know what it is? It could be ‘remember.’ Because all of [us] have made covenants … our greatest need is to remember. That is why everyone goes to sacrament meeting every Sabbath day—to take the sacrament and listen to the priests pray that [we] ‘… may always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given [us].’ … ‘Remember’ is the word” (Circles of Exaltation [address to religious educators, Brigham Young University, 28 June 1968], 8).
Remembering is, in fact, essential. Many of the prophets, if not all, have counseled as Alma the Younger did his son Helamen, "I would that ye should do as I have done, in remembering the captivity of our fathers; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it was the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and he surely did deliver them in their afflictions."
What Matthew shows us unwittingly through his simple acknowledgement of the captivity in Babylon is that the Jews remembered this captivity, and even had it on their genealogy. It was an event ingrained within the annals of their culture, and it is, quite obviously, a marker of remembrance. We could do more to have such markers in our lives. When was the last time the Lord has led me out of captivity (spiritually or emotionally)? And have I sufficiently retained it in remembrance, marking it as a major event that has changed my life?
Info Coming
Sorry, it has taken me a few days to get this out. Hopefully you can now post. Let me know if you can't post. I will have the links all active hopefully by night of the 11th. Readings will be posted as well. I'll email a pdf to y'all so you can have one now (lots of reading because we meet only once a week.)
"More Than Just"
Matthew 1:18-21 reads as follows:
"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (emphasis added).
The simple principle of truth encapsulated within this passage of scripture has to do with the difference between what Joseph thought and what the Lord had in mind. Joseph acted according to what he thought was the "higher road", and instead of divorcing Mary publicly, or even having her stoned to death (both actions of which were in his legal power), he decided to simply put her away "privily." This, he surely told himself, was the best and noblest thing he could do for her. It was the just thing. What Joseph may not have realized at this point in his young life, however, is that God doesn't always ask of us what we expect. God often expects us to be more than just in our actions one towards another. Acting with charity, the "pure love of Christ," requires of us that we do more than we may have bargained for.
"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (emphasis added).
The simple principle of truth encapsulated within this passage of scripture has to do with the difference between what Joseph thought and what the Lord had in mind. Joseph acted according to what he thought was the "higher road", and instead of divorcing Mary publicly, or even having her stoned to death (both actions of which were in his legal power), he decided to simply put her away "privily." This, he surely told himself, was the best and noblest thing he could do for her. It was the just thing. What Joseph may not have realized at this point in his young life, however, is that God doesn't always ask of us what we expect. God often expects us to be more than just in our actions one towards another. Acting with charity, the "pure love of Christ," requires of us that we do more than we may have bargained for.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Here We Go!
As we dive into the scriptures together this semester I want to try something that might be new to an institute experience. My motivation to do this stems from two guiding principles that have lead me to try this out.
First, in 2003 the Church Educational System came out with what is called the Teaching Emphasis. 'The Emphasis' was developed to help seminary and institute teachers have more impact while the student are in our classes. If correctly used the emphasis' goal is to help student take their gospel knowledge from their head to their heart. President Henry B. Eyring said of this increased effort and emphasis:
"The pure gospel of Jesus Christ must go down into the hearts of students by the power of the Holy Ghost. It will not be enough for them to have had a spiritual witness of the truth and to want good things later. It will not be enough for them to hope for some future cleansing and strengthening. Our aim must be for them to become truly converted to the restored gospel of
Jesus Christ while they are with us." (WE MUST RAISE OUR SIGHTS
Elder Henry B. Eyring, CES Conference on the Book of Mormon • 14 August 2001 • Brigham Young University)
If you want to look at this document click on the following link: The Teaching Emphasis
The document says we need to do two things in class more:
"There are conversations going on about the Church constantly. Those conversations will continue whether or not we choose to participate in them. But we cannot stand on the sidelines while others, including our critics, attempt to define what the Church teaches. While some conversations have audiences in the thousands or even millions, most are much, much smaller. But all conversations have an impact on those who participate in them. Perceptions of the Church are established one conversation at a time." M. Russell Ballard, “Sharing the Gospel Using the Internet,” Ensign, Jul 2008, 58–63. If you would like to see a video of a similar speech he gave at BYU Hawaii here you go: Video of Speech.
So here we go. I hope this blog turns into a repository of your thoughts, principles, expereices, to show to one another alike of our belief in Christ and how being able to find and verbalize simple statements of principle can help us to come closer to our Heavenly Father.
Brother Boyce
First, in 2003 the Church Educational System came out with what is called the Teaching Emphasis. 'The Emphasis' was developed to help seminary and institute teachers have more impact while the student are in our classes. If correctly used the emphasis' goal is to help student take their gospel knowledge from their head to their heart. President Henry B. Eyring said of this increased effort and emphasis:
"The pure gospel of Jesus Christ must go down into the hearts of students by the power of the Holy Ghost. It will not be enough for them to have had a spiritual witness of the truth and to want good things later. It will not be enough for them to hope for some future cleansing and strengthening. Our aim must be for them to become truly converted to the restored gospel ofJesus Christ while they are with us." (WE MUST RAISE OUR SIGHTS
Elder Henry B. Eyring, CES Conference on the Book of Mormon • 14 August 2001 • Brigham Young University)
If you want to look at this document click on the following link: The Teaching Emphasis
The document says we need to do two things in class more:
- We are to help students understand the scriptures and the words of the prophets, identify and understand the doctrines and principles found therein, and apply them in their lives in ways that lead to personal conversion.
- We are to help students learn to explain, share, and testify of the doctrines and principles of the restored gospel. We are to give them opportunities to do so with each other in class. We are to encourage them to do so outside of class with family and others.
"There are conversations going on about the Church constantly. Those conversations will continue whether or not we choose to participate in them. But we cannot stand on the sidelines while others, including our critics, attempt to define what the Church teaches. While some conversations have audiences in the thousands or even millions, most are much, much smaller. But all conversations have an impact on those who participate in them. Perceptions of the Church are established one conversation at a time." M. Russell Ballard, “Sharing the Gospel Using the Internet,” Ensign, Jul 2008, 58–63. If you would like to see a video of a similar speech he gave at BYU Hawaii here you go: Video of Speech.So here we go. I hope this blog turns into a repository of your thoughts, principles, expereices, to show to one another alike of our belief in Christ and how being able to find and verbalize simple statements of principle can help us to come closer to our Heavenly Father.
Brother Boyce
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)