Tuesday, February 5, 2008
New Prophet & First Presidency
If you're LDS, then you probably already know about this news. But, the first presidency of the church has been reorganized. I'm so happy about our new prophet, Pres. Monson. I've always loved listening to his stories during conference. He's had so many experiences in the church, serving diverse people all over the world. His life exemplifies charity. Pres. Eyring and Pres. Uchtdorf, his counselors, are also amazing men. Change is exciting, but I'm glad the same message will continue to be spread. That these men serve as witnesses of Jesus Christ. And it's their job to be beacons to the world, inviting people to live the gospel.
Remember, remember
Mosiah 2
King Benjamin addresses his people—He recounts the equity, fairness, and spirituality of his reign—He counsels them to serve their heavenly King—Those who rebel against God shall suffer anguish like unquenchable fire. About 124 B.C.
Like Pres. Benson taught, remember is the most important word. Remember the commandments. Remember our mistakes, so we don't repeat them. Remember our covenants. I love this last verse:
"41 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and ahappy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are bblessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out cfaithful to the end they are received into dheaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it."
King Benjamin addresses his people—He recounts the equity, fairness, and spirituality of his reign—He counsels them to serve their heavenly King—Those who rebel against God shall suffer anguish like unquenchable fire. About 124 B.C.
Like Pres. Benson taught, remember is the most important word. Remember the commandments. Remember our mistakes, so we don't repeat them. Remember our covenants. I love this last verse:
"41 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and ahappy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are bblessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out cfaithful to the end they are received into dheaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it."
Monday, February 4, 2008
Book of Mormon's Editor
Words of Mormon 1
Mormon abridges their history onto the plates of Mormon—He inserts the plates of Nephi into the abridgement—King Benjamin establishes peace in the land. About A.D. 385
This is an explanation from the LDS.org site:
"Mormon was the main editor and writer of what is known as the Book of Mormon. Having been commanded of the Lord, Mormon abridged, or summarized, a portion of the Nephite records. His abridgment does not contain even a "hundredth part" of his people's history, but it does contain important teachings about Jesus Christ and His gospel. Besides this abridgment—which forms the main part of the Book of Mormon—Mormon and later his son, Moroni, were inspired to include other writings. The resulting book of scripture stands alongside the Bible as another testament of Jesus Christ."
He says he read all the plates of Nephi and that there's so much content he's only using the "choice" parts. Especially the prophecies of Christ's coming. That's when I had a little a-ha moment. Thinking about those Nephites before Christ came. They must've had so much faith to believe the prophesies about a Messiah. We wait for the second coming, and that requires faith, but that's not so hard when we know Christ has already lived on the earth. Imagine the Nephites, they've only heard prophesies that one day he would arrive.
Now I'm thinking of how these scriptures apply to us. I'm having a moment where I feel the realness. That physical and spiritual things are all wrapped up together. That right now while I write these words Heavenly Father and Christ are alive. Wow.
Friday, February 1, 2008
How to come unto the Lord
Omni 1
Omni, Amaron, Chemish, Abinadom, and Amaleki, each in turn, keep the records—Mosiah discovers the people of Zarahemla who came from Jerusalem in the days of Zedekiah—He is made king over them—The Mulekites had discovered Coriantumr, the last of the Jaredites—King Benjamin succeeds Mosiah—Men should offer their souls as an offering to Christ. Between 361 and 130 B.C.
This chapter is jam packed with history. From Zarahemla to Coriantumr to King Benjamin. Wow, too much history to cover in this post. But, I'm going to do some reading on Sunday, about all this history. Fascinating, lots to sink into.
On a personal note, I love this scripture: "Yea, come unto him, and boffer your whole souls as an coffering unto him, and continue in dfasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved." I've always wondered how to "come to" the Lord. This scripture answers that question.
Omni, Amaron, Chemish, Abinadom, and Amaleki, each in turn, keep the records—Mosiah discovers the people of Zarahemla who came from Jerusalem in the days of Zedekiah—He is made king over them—The Mulekites had discovered Coriantumr, the last of the Jaredites—King Benjamin succeeds Mosiah—Men should offer their souls as an offering to Christ. Between 361 and 130 B.C.
This chapter is jam packed with history. From Zarahemla to Coriantumr to King Benjamin. Wow, too much history to cover in this post. But, I'm going to do some reading on Sunday, about all this history. Fascinating, lots to sink into.
On a personal note, I love this scripture: "Yea, come unto him, and boffer your whole souls as an coffering unto him, and continue in dfasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved." I've always wondered how to "come to" the Lord. This scripture answers that question.
Small Packages
Jarom 1
The Nephites keep the law of Moses, look forward to the coming of Christ, and prosper in the land—Many prophets labor to keep them in the way of truth. Between 420 and 361 B.C.
Jarom tells us the plates he had were small. So, he had to write only the most important things. One chapter. Big things come in small packages. There's no more important message for a prophet to give, than to testify of the Messiah. All things pointing to Him. I like how he adds that their kings and leaders are righteous men. They were able to protect their people, because they relied on guidance from the Lord.
An interesting sidenote, is the space dedicated to seemingly secular things. Such as their wealth, details about their weapons, buildings, etc. Are these mentioned as proofs to support the Book or Mormon from an anthropological point of view? Or maybe just to show that they were instructed in a very specific way by the Lord, and these items are witnesses of that? I'm not sure. But very cool either way.
The Nephites keep the law of Moses, look forward to the coming of Christ, and prosper in the land—Many prophets labor to keep them in the way of truth. Between 420 and 361 B.C.
Jarom tells us the plates he had were small. So, he had to write only the most important things. One chapter. Big things come in small packages. There's no more important message for a prophet to give, than to testify of the Messiah. All things pointing to Him. I like how he adds that their kings and leaders are righteous men. They were able to protect their people, because they relied on guidance from the Lord.
An interesting sidenote, is the space dedicated to seemingly secular things. Such as their wealth, details about their weapons, buildings, etc. Are these mentioned as proofs to support the Book or Mormon from an anthropological point of view? Or maybe just to show that they were instructed in a very specific way by the Lord, and these items are witnesses of that? I'm not sure. But very cool either way.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Even good guys mess up
Enos 1
Enos prays mightily and gains a remission of his sins—The voice of the Lord comes into his mind promising salvation for the Lamanites in a future day—Nephites sought to reclaim the Lamanites in their day—Enos rejoices in his Redeemer. Between 544 and 420 B.C.
2 And I will tell you of the awrestle which I had before God, before I received a bremission of my sins. 8 And he said unto me: aBecause of thy bfaith in Christ, whom thou hast never before heard nor seen. And many years pass away before he shall manifest himself in the flesh; wherefore, go to, thy faith hath made thee cwhole
Enos prays mightily and gains a remission of his sins—The voice of the Lord comes into his mind promising salvation for the Lamanites in a future day—Nephites sought to reclaim the Lamanites in their day—Enos rejoices in his Redeemer. Between 544 and 420 B.C.
2 And I will tell you of the awrestle which I had before God, before I received a bremission of my sins.
6 And I, Enos, knew that God acould not lie; wherefore, my guilt was swept away.
Ignoring modern day Sherems
Jacob 7
Sherem denies Christ, contends with Jacob, demands a sign, and is smitten of God—All of the prophets have spoken of Christ and his atonement—The Nephites lived out their days as wanderers, born in tribulation, and hated by the Lamanites. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
This reminds me of a couple things. First of all, while reading about Sherem, I could only see a certain tv personalities face. I have to admit I can't stand him. I'm convinced he speaks for the devil himself. He's articulate, smug and way too smart for his own good. Most of his shows include two people who agree with him and one person they spend the 30 minutes pouncing on. Makes for good tv...again, the devil?? I don't know, I'm just thinking. Anyhow, this relates to Jacob 7, because he's like a modern Sherem. Mocking those of us who believe in Christ. The most unchristian part of me would like to see him struck dumb on one of his shows. That would make good tv.
Secondly, and more seriously, with the ease of access to media of all sorts, we are regularly influenced by ideas. We know the "war in heaven" was a war of ideas. We're still in the same battle. All these convincing arguments made for both sides. I love how this chapter reinforces the importance of prophets. It's their role to be spokesmen for the Lord's side. They teach truths and testify of Christ. It's such an awesome thing to have living prophets. That we can be protected in this battle.
Sherem denies Christ, contends with Jacob, demands a sign, and is smitten of God—All of the prophets have spoken of Christ and his atonement—The Nephites lived out their days as wanderers, born in tribulation, and hated by the Lamanites. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
This reminds me of a couple things. First of all, while reading about Sherem, I could only see a certain tv personalities face. I have to admit I can't stand him. I'm convinced he speaks for the devil himself. He's articulate, smug and way too smart for his own good. Most of his shows include two people who agree with him and one person they spend the 30 minutes pouncing on. Makes for good tv...again, the devil?? I don't know, I'm just thinking. Anyhow, this relates to Jacob 7, because he's like a modern Sherem. Mocking those of us who believe in Christ. The most unchristian part of me would like to see him struck dumb on one of his shows. That would make good tv.
Secondly, and more seriously, with the ease of access to media of all sorts, we are regularly influenced by ideas. We know the "war in heaven" was a war of ideas. We're still in the same battle. All these convincing arguments made for both sides. I love how this chapter reinforces the importance of prophets. It's their role to be spokesmen for the Lord's side. They teach truths and testify of Christ. It's such an awesome thing to have living prophets. That we can be protected in this battle.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
His Invitation
Jacob 6
The Lord shall recover Israel in the last days—Then the world shall be burned with fire—Men must follow Christ to avoid the lake of fire and brimstone. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
This is beautiful and I have nothing to add:
"...And while his barm of mercy is extended towards you in the light of the day, harden not your hearts."
The Lord shall recover Israel in the last days—Then the world shall be burned with fire—Men must follow Christ to avoid the lake of fire and brimstone. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
This is beautiful and I have nothing to add:
"...And while his barm of mercy is extended towards you in the light of the day, harden not your hearts."
The Lord's Vineyard
Jacob 5
Jacob quotes Zenos relative to the allegory of the tame and wild olive trees—They are a likeness of Israel and the gentiles—The scattering and gathering of Israel are prefigured—Allusions are made to the Nephites and Lamanites and all the house of Israel—Gentiles shall be grafted into Israel—Eventually the vineyard shall be burned. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
Again, I'm amazed that this chapter was exactly what I needed to read today. I remember learning the symbolism of this chapter, but I was a little foggy on all the details. I found this on www.bominspection.blogspot.com
I feel so encouraged after reading this chapter. The Lord kept trying to grow good fruit. Over and over he tried. He loved his vineyard and wanted to try everything to save it. As imperfect people, we all fall and make mistakes, but there's always hope. The Lord is always trying to dig around us, and fertilize us and remove our dying branches. He's always there to help us.
Jacob quotes Zenos relative to the allegory of the tame and wild olive trees—They are a likeness of Israel and the gentiles—The scattering and gathering of Israel are prefigured—Allusions are made to the Nephites and Lamanites and all the house of Israel—Gentiles shall be grafted into Israel—Eventually the vineyard shall be burned. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
Again, I'm amazed that this chapter was exactly what I needed to read today. I remember learning the symbolism of this chapter, but I was a little foggy on all the details. I found this on www.bominspection.blogspot.com
| The vineyard | The world |
| Master of the vineyard | Jesus Christ |
| The servant | The Lord’s prophets |
| Tame olive tree | The house of Israel, the Lord’s covenant people |
| Wild olive tree | Gentiles |
| Branches | Groups of people |
| The roots of the tame olive tree | The gospel covenant and promises made by God that constantly give life and sustenance to the tree |
| Fruit of the tree | The lives or works of men |
| Digging, pruning, fertilizing | The Lord’s work with his children which seeks to persuade them to be obedient and produce good fruit |
| Transplanting the branches | Scattering of groups throughout the world or restoring them to their original position |
| Grafting | The process of spiritual rebirth wherein one is joined to the covenant |
| Decaying branches | Wickedness and apostasy |
| Casting the branches into the fire | The judgment of God |
I feel so encouraged after reading this chapter. The Lord kept trying to grow good fruit. Over and over he tried. He loved his vineyard and wanted to try everything to save it. As imperfect people, we all fall and make mistakes, but there's always hope. The Lord is always trying to dig around us, and fertilize us and remove our dying branches. He's always there to help us.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Symbols point to Christ
Jacob 4
All the prophets worshipped the Father in the name of Christ—Abraham’s offering of Isaac was in similitude of God and his Only Begotten—Men should reconcile themselves to God through the atonement—The Jews shall reject the foundation stone. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
I'm not sure why but this phrase from verse 5 stood out to me: "it epointing our souls to him" This was referring to the Nephites living the Law of Moses. Of all the things in this chapter, I'm not sure why this sticks with me. But I like the word pointing. That the symbolism of the Law of Moses guided the Nephites towards Christ.
All the prophets worshipped the Father in the name of Christ—Abraham’s offering of Isaac was in similitude of God and his Only Begotten—Men should reconcile themselves to God through the atonement—The Jews shall reject the foundation stone. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
I'm not sure why but this phrase from verse 5 stood out to me: "it epointing our souls to him" This was referring to the Nephites living the Law of Moses. Of all the things in this chapter, I'm not sure why this sticks with me. But I like the word pointing. That the symbolism of the Law of Moses guided the Nephites towards Christ.
Exercise and Testimony
Jacob 3
The pure in heart receive the pleasing word of God—Lamanite righteousness exceeds that of Nephites—Jacob warns against fornication, lasciviousness, and every sin. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
This makes me think of the saying "use it or lose it". Jacob is talking to the faithful Nephites. Many of them are being naughty in this chapter. I love how he tells the faithful to look to God with a "firmness of mind". Nothing wavering. Doing this consistently is hard. Kind of like exercise. Without it we become soft. Our testimonies also have to be taken out and worked. We have to ask questions and look for answers. It's interesting how the Lamanites begin living more righteously. Which reminds me of a discussion Travis and I always have about Utah. How it's almost easier to live the gospel outside of Utah. It's ironic and not true for everyone. But, for me it's hard to work on my testimony when everyone around believes the same thing. Like all of our light cancel each other out. But, this is false. Really I should be working on my own relationship with God, regardless if I'm surrounded by Baptists or Mormons.
The pure in heart receive the pleasing word of God—Lamanite righteousness exceeds that of Nephites—Jacob warns against fornication, lasciviousness, and every sin. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
This makes me think of the saying "use it or lose it". Jacob is talking to the faithful Nephites. Many of them are being naughty in this chapter. I love how he tells the faithful to look to God with a "firmness of mind". Nothing wavering. Doing this consistently is hard. Kind of like exercise. Without it we become soft. Our testimonies also have to be taken out and worked. We have to ask questions and look for answers. It's interesting how the Lamanites begin living more righteously. Which reminds me of a discussion Travis and I always have about Utah. How it's almost easier to live the gospel outside of Utah. It's ironic and not true for everyone. But, for me it's hard to work on my testimony when everyone around believes the same thing. Like all of our light cancel each other out. But, this is false. Really I should be working on my own relationship with God, regardless if I'm surrounded by Baptists or Mormons.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Admitting Defeat
Jacob 2
Jacob denounces the love of riches, pride, and unchastity—Men should seek riches to help their fellow men—Jacob condemns the unauthorized practice of plural marriage—The Lord delights in the chastity of women. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
I was thinking about pride and I just read this: "And, O that ye would listen unto the word of his commands, and let not this apride of your hearts destroy your souls!"
Sometimes I feel like I'm pretty strong. That I can do things on my own and don't have a lot of weaknesses. Talk about being prideful. I do think I am a strong person, but I definately have pronounced weaknesses. Even if a person has only one weakness, it can be enough to completely destroy them. So, remembering that, I need to humble myself and admit defeat. I need to completely surrender my will to the Lord. That's the only way I'll be able to have peace in my life.
Jacob denounces the love of riches, pride, and unchastity—Men should seek riches to help their fellow men—Jacob condemns the unauthorized practice of plural marriage—The Lord delights in the chastity of women. Between 544 and 421 B.C.
I was thinking about pride and I just read this: "And, O that ye would listen unto the word of his commands, and let not this apride of your hearts destroy your souls!"
Sometimes I feel like I'm pretty strong. That I can do things on my own and don't have a lot of weaknesses. Talk about being prideful. I do think I am a strong person, but I definately have pronounced weaknesses. Even if a person has only one weakness, it can be enough to completely destroy them. So, remembering that, I need to humble myself and admit defeat. I need to completely surrender my will to the Lord. That's the only way I'll be able to have peace in my life.
Every member a Missionary
The words of his preaching unto his brethren. He confoundeth a man who seeketh to overthrow the doctrine of Christ. A few words concerning the history of the people of Nephi.
(Background info about Book of Jacob: Jacob, Nephi's brother, was commanded to record the sacred history of the Nephites on the small plates. This was about 55 years after Lehi crossed the ocean.)
Jacob 1
The words of his preaching unto his brethren. He confoundeth a man who seeketh to overthrow the doctrine of Christ. A few words concerning the history of the people of Nephi.
I was impressed by this scripture: "answering the sins of the people upon our own heads if we did not cteach them the word of God with all diligence; wherefore, by laboring with our might their dblood might not come upon our garments; otherwise their blood would come upon our garments, and we would not be found spotless at the last day."
If that's not a good reason to seek out people who are looking for the Gospel, I'm not sure what is.
Sorry...
Just to say sorry that I was a slacker last week. The kids were out of school the first 3 days of the week. So, I slept in. I'm a sloth. So, I'm going to read double this week to get caught up. I noticed a huge difference in my week when I didn't do my scripture reading. It occured to me yesterday while teaching my class. The lesson was about how we all chose to follow Heavenly Father's plan, and that we chose to earth to receive a body. We talked about how Christ said he would go and do as Heavenly Father asked of Him, and He would give all the Glory to Him. Then we talked about Lucifer and how he wanted us to have no choices. I went on to explain how there was a war of thoughts in heaven and that Lucifer and many of our brothers and sisters were expelled. I asked the children, "Will they ever be able to receive bodies?" "No", they said (my kids are so smart) I was showing the kids a CTR ring and I asked them if they knew what a shield was. None of them knew. So I asked if they knew what a sword was. Yes, they all knew. I traced with the hands a imaginary shield in front of myself and said this is a shield and it protects you from being stabbed by a sword. Just as real shield can protect your physical body, a shield of righteous living can protect your spiritual body. It will protect you from Satan's stabs. It was kind of an ahha moment for me. Not that this is a new metaphor. But, I could see how last week I'd been walking through it without my shield, and Satan is no dumbie. He's tricky and such an excellent liar. I have to remember that he's been practicing his art alot longer than I've been practicing mine. So, this week I'm back at putting up my shield. I'm so grateful that we can always try again. And, I'm so grateful for scriptures.
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