Chapters 27-28
Dear Sisters,
This time of year as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, I have chosen to focus on the section in Chapter 27 "Jesus and the Little Ones". I love how the event is referred to as one of 'surpassing sweetness'. I wish I could have been there!
As mothers brought their little children to be blessed, Jesus took the time to see all of them, regardless of status. "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God." Taking the children one by one into His arms, He laid His hands upon them and blessed them, saying, "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein."
May we have the tenderness, love and patience that the Savior showed this Christmas season and always.
With love,
Liz
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Alma Chapters 3-12
Thank you, Mary Lee for your insightful comments. I always love reading what you have to say, and I hope all of you Parleys Stake Sisters had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are looking forward to a Christmas holiday filled with the Spirit of Christ.
When I re-read Alma Chapters 3-12 I was again impressed with his message of repentance and how it applies to me in my life. It’s easy for me to get caught up in the logistics of everyday life--tending grandchildren, helping with aging parents and pursuing everyday activities. I often feel more like Martha who was busy doing good things but not like Mary who took time to wait upon the Lord and listen to His voice. We are admonished to inwardly seek Christ which is difficult if we’re always ‘on a schedule’ with little time to reflect upon the scriptures and Conference addresses, serve in the temple or how to do the Lord’s will.
Alma reiterates how quickly the Lord’s people are chastened, become believing and repentant, achieve worldly success and then fall away again—often in a matter of a few years (from the sixth year of the reign of Judges to the eighth). In the beginning of Chapter 4, verse 3 & 4 we read about the people of Zarahemla: “And so great were their afflictions that every soul had cause to mourn; and they believed that it was the judgments of God sent upon them because of their wickedness and their abominations; therefore they were awakened to a remembrance of their duty. And they began to establish the church more fully.” Later in verse 12 (two years later) we read: “Yea, he saw great inequality among the people, some lifting themselves up with their pride, despising others, turning their backs upon the needy and the naked and those who were hungry, and those who were athirst, and those who were sick and afflicted.”
Personally, it seems as soon as I’ve had some difficult experience, have appealed to the Lord and have had my prayers answered that I readily return to my old ways of worldly pursuits and a more casual relationship with the Lord. It’s easy for me to reflect on what I’ve done rather than think what more I can do. I think we’ve seen this mentality in our own society after 9/11 and our economic downturn. We all seem to easily forget the Lord and return to our old ways. It takes discipline and a contrite heart to continually return to the Lord, abandon our old ways and seek ways to help those in need. I like what Alma said in Chapter 5:7 as he preached to the people in Zarahemla: “behold, he changed their hearts; yea, he awakened them out of a deep sleep, and they awoke unto God. Behold, they were in the midst of darkness; nevertheless, their souls were illuminated by the light of the everlasting word…”
I have reflected these past few days on the concept of light versus darkness and warmth versus the cold and dreary world since our electrical power was gone for two days and a night during that cold and windy wintry spell. I realized that I didn’t possess very good pioneer patience during this time but was also aware how bleak and dreary our home was without light and warmth. I likened this to the light of Christ in our lives and how wonderful our lives feel when we keep his commandments and how dreary and dark they become when we fail to honor them. The Lord wants us to ‘strip ourselves of pride and envy (Alma 5:29, 30), and “partake of the fruit of the tree of life…drink of the bread and the waters of life freely” (verse 34)
I am so grateful for the gift of repentance and how the Lord forgives us continually when we make mistakes. I also better understand from our Relief Society lessons these past few weeks how important it is to keep His commandments so that we may someday live in the Celestial Kingdom with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
When I re-read Alma Chapters 3-12 I was again impressed with his message of repentance and how it applies to me in my life. It’s easy for me to get caught up in the logistics of everyday life--tending grandchildren, helping with aging parents and pursuing everyday activities. I often feel more like Martha who was busy doing good things but not like Mary who took time to wait upon the Lord and listen to His voice. We are admonished to inwardly seek Christ which is difficult if we’re always ‘on a schedule’ with little time to reflect upon the scriptures and Conference addresses, serve in the temple or how to do the Lord’s will.
Alma reiterates how quickly the Lord’s people are chastened, become believing and repentant, achieve worldly success and then fall away again—often in a matter of a few years (from the sixth year of the reign of Judges to the eighth). In the beginning of Chapter 4, verse 3 & 4 we read about the people of Zarahemla: “And so great were their afflictions that every soul had cause to mourn; and they believed that it was the judgments of God sent upon them because of their wickedness and their abominations; therefore they were awakened to a remembrance of their duty. And they began to establish the church more fully.” Later in verse 12 (two years later) we read: “Yea, he saw great inequality among the people, some lifting themselves up with their pride, despising others, turning their backs upon the needy and the naked and those who were hungry, and those who were athirst, and those who were sick and afflicted.”
Personally, it seems as soon as I’ve had some difficult experience, have appealed to the Lord and have had my prayers answered that I readily return to my old ways of worldly pursuits and a more casual relationship with the Lord. It’s easy for me to reflect on what I’ve done rather than think what more I can do. I think we’ve seen this mentality in our own society after 9/11 and our economic downturn. We all seem to easily forget the Lord and return to our old ways. It takes discipline and a contrite heart to continually return to the Lord, abandon our old ways and seek ways to help those in need. I like what Alma said in Chapter 5:7 as he preached to the people in Zarahemla: “behold, he changed their hearts; yea, he awakened them out of a deep sleep, and they awoke unto God. Behold, they were in the midst of darkness; nevertheless, their souls were illuminated by the light of the everlasting word…”
I have reflected these past few days on the concept of light versus darkness and warmth versus the cold and dreary world since our electrical power was gone for two days and a night during that cold and windy wintry spell. I realized that I didn’t possess very good pioneer patience during this time but was also aware how bleak and dreary our home was without light and warmth. I likened this to the light of Christ in our lives and how wonderful our lives feel when we keep his commandments and how dreary and dark they become when we fail to honor them. The Lord wants us to ‘strip ourselves of pride and envy (Alma 5:29, 30), and “partake of the fruit of the tree of life…drink of the bread and the waters of life freely” (verse 34)
I am so grateful for the gift of repentance and how the Lord forgives us continually when we make mistakes. I also better understand from our Relief Society lessons these past few weeks how important it is to keep His commandments so that we may someday live in the Celestial Kingdom with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Book of Mormon - Alma 13-23
These were great chapters on missionary work and the teachings of Alma, Amulek and the Sons of Mosiah as they traveled from town to town preaching the gospel, teaching repentance, and converting those who would listen.
Chapter 14 - Has an amazing account of when Alma and Amulek were cast into prison and the believers were burned by fire. The spirit constrained Alma not to intervene and save the women and children from the painful death. In verse 11 he states, "For behold the Lord receiveth them up unto himself, in glory; and he doth suffer that they may do this thing, or that the people may do this thing unto them, according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgments which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day".
That is a good lesson to remember that bad things can happen to good people sometimes and even though it seems unjust and unfair in this world, God knows the beginning from the end and has a reason for everything. We just have to have faith that all will be made right in the end. Sometimes people wonder how a loving God could allow tragedy or accidents to happen to righteous people. Sometimes others have made poor decisions that have bad consequences and it's a good lesson to see that the righteous, even though they suffered an awful death, were welcomed with glory and that God would use their deaths to hold the guilty accountable.
Alma and Amulek were not burned since their ministry was not finished but they were beaten repeatedly, mocked, and put into prison without food or water. They were there for many days when finally Alma prayed asking for deliverance. Immediately, he was able to break his bonds and the earth shook and the prison walls fell and killed all the judges and priests who had held them captive. That is a powerful illustration of God's ability to conquer all things in His due time. Faith and patience is what is required on our part.
Alma and Alma continue to preach, establishes places of worship, perform miracles (healing of Zeezrom), administer to the people and teach of Christ.
Chapter 17 - Alma meets the sons of Mosiah in his travels, and they all continue to preach the gospel. Ammon is a servant to the king who is given special strength to protect the king's flock of sheep and through his great combat skills, is able to win favor with the king. He preaches of God and of repentance. Many believed on his words and "their hearts had been changed; they had no more desire to do evil".
Chapters 22-23 - Aaron converts the king who prays and falls to the earth. The queen almost has Aaron killed but through Aaron, the Lord allows the king to stand and all are converted and religious freedom is granted through the kingdom. God works miracles and they "became a righteous people; they did lay down the weapons of their rebellion, that they did not fight against God any more, neither against any of their brethren."
I can only imagine a world where people not only don't fight God but they treat their neighbors with kindness, love and respect. That is the ideal we are striving for, and in our crazy world where so much is in turmoil, peace is missing from so many. I liked these verses as a reminder that "every member is a missionary" and that we should do all in our power to share the gospel of peace.
As the Christmas season approaches, I'm thankful to know that through Christ, we can have that peace that the world seems to be missing. We can pattern our lives after the Savior and have no more desire to do evil. We can see God's hand in so many of the generous services that people do a little more of during the holiday season and as we contemplate our blessings and have gratitude for our families, our comforts, our trials and our very lives, our testimonies will grow and we will be truly "converted unto the Lord, never to fall away".
Chapter 14 - Has an amazing account of when Alma and Amulek were cast into prison and the believers were burned by fire. The spirit constrained Alma not to intervene and save the women and children from the painful death. In verse 11 he states, "For behold the Lord receiveth them up unto himself, in glory; and he doth suffer that they may do this thing, or that the people may do this thing unto them, according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgments which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day".
That is a good lesson to remember that bad things can happen to good people sometimes and even though it seems unjust and unfair in this world, God knows the beginning from the end and has a reason for everything. We just have to have faith that all will be made right in the end. Sometimes people wonder how a loving God could allow tragedy or accidents to happen to righteous people. Sometimes others have made poor decisions that have bad consequences and it's a good lesson to see that the righteous, even though they suffered an awful death, were welcomed with glory and that God would use their deaths to hold the guilty accountable.
Alma and Amulek were not burned since their ministry was not finished but they were beaten repeatedly, mocked, and put into prison without food or water. They were there for many days when finally Alma prayed asking for deliverance. Immediately, he was able to break his bonds and the earth shook and the prison walls fell and killed all the judges and priests who had held them captive. That is a powerful illustration of God's ability to conquer all things in His due time. Faith and patience is what is required on our part.
Alma and Alma continue to preach, establishes places of worship, perform miracles (healing of Zeezrom), administer to the people and teach of Christ.
Chapter 17 - Alma meets the sons of Mosiah in his travels, and they all continue to preach the gospel. Ammon is a servant to the king who is given special strength to protect the king's flock of sheep and through his great combat skills, is able to win favor with the king. He preaches of God and of repentance. Many believed on his words and "their hearts had been changed; they had no more desire to do evil".
Chapters 22-23 - Aaron converts the king who prays and falls to the earth. The queen almost has Aaron killed but through Aaron, the Lord allows the king to stand and all are converted and religious freedom is granted through the kingdom. God works miracles and they "became a righteous people; they did lay down the weapons of their rebellion, that they did not fight against God any more, neither against any of their brethren."
I can only imagine a world where people not only don't fight God but they treat their neighbors with kindness, love and respect. That is the ideal we are striving for, and in our crazy world where so much is in turmoil, peace is missing from so many. I liked these verses as a reminder that "every member is a missionary" and that we should do all in our power to share the gospel of peace.
As the Christmas season approaches, I'm thankful to know that through Christ, we can have that peace that the world seems to be missing. We can pattern our lives after the Savior and have no more desire to do evil. We can see God's hand in so many of the generous services that people do a little more of during the holiday season and as we contemplate our blessings and have gratitude for our families, our comforts, our trials and our very lives, our testimonies will grow and we will be truly "converted unto the Lord, never to fall away".
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Jesus The Christ Reading...Chapters 20-21
There were four things in particular that I learned or that stood out to me in these chapters. First, I learned that the Jews regarded the border or hem of the garment of their outer robes as of particular importance...supplied with a band of blue, as a reminder to them of their obligations as the covenant people. It added new meaning to the story, which I love, of the woman with her long-standing malady who with incredible faith reached out in the crowd to touch the hem of His robe, knowing that she would be healed.
Second, The Jews had specific expectations of the Messiah and His coming, and Jesus did not measure up to those popular and traditional standards. As a result they could not see Who stood before them. This made me think of how often I build up expectations in my mind, of how things ought to be ... how my life should be or how my prayers should be answered etc. Most often, our idea is not the best. The Lord knows what we need most in our lives and how it should happen. I want to be more aware of Who stands before me...be worthy of His guidance and let Him guide... accepting and trusting what happens, knowing that He is aware of me and loves me.
Third, I believe strongly in Talmages words ..."Those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart". This reminded me of a favorite quote by C.S. Lewis..."What we do is evidence of who we are."
Fourth...Read the description of faith ...note 9, chapter 21! I loved it! It is wonderful!
Second, The Jews had specific expectations of the Messiah and His coming, and Jesus did not measure up to those popular and traditional standards. As a result they could not see Who stood before them. This made me think of how often I build up expectations in my mind, of how things ought to be ... how my life should be or how my prayers should be answered etc. Most often, our idea is not the best. The Lord knows what we need most in our lives and how it should happen. I want to be more aware of Who stands before me...be worthy of His guidance and let Him guide... accepting and trusting what happens, knowing that He is aware of me and loves me.
Third, I believe strongly in Talmages words ..."Those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart". This reminded me of a favorite quote by C.S. Lewis..."What we do is evidence of who we are."
Fourth...Read the description of faith ...note 9, chapter 21! I loved it! It is wonderful!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Parables and Miracles (Jesus the Christ Chp 19-20)
I am learning so much as I am reading this amazing book. But I have to admit to being about 100 pages behind the reading schedule. But no matter. I am going to plug along because slow and steady always finishes. The parables and miracles of Christ are some of my favorite parts of the New Testament. What could be better than studying the lessons of a master teacher and learning of his power to heal.
As I read I was reminded of two things: 1) parables can be understood on so many levels depending upon our readiness to receive (how rich is the soil of the heart) and 2)the order in which they are given according to Joseph Smith teaches about the gathering of Israel. Elder Bednar in his most recent conference address stated that the sequence of events is often instructive. So what can we learn about the gathering of Israel from these parables or on a more personal level, how do we make sure that we are among those who are gathered in. Here are my ideas:
1) The Sower = Christ brings the gospel --> what is the condition of my heart? Am I open to learning the gospel principles and doctrines?
2) Wheat and Tares = Apostasy --> How am I staying firmly planted to prevent my testimony from weakening?
3) Mustard Seed = Restoration --> What changes (small) am I making to help me be more like Christ and will result in my greater growth of testimony and faith?
4) The Leaven = Testimony/Witness --> What am I doing to stand as a witness of Christ in all places and at all times?
5) Treasure in field = Center place --> Do I value the gospel and its teachings enough to center my life around them and give all that I have to posses them.
6) Pearl of Great Price = Expansion of Stake --> How devoted am I to learning more and increasing my knowledge of the gospel? After what am I seeking?
7) Dragnet = Judgement --> What am I doing to ensure that I am part of the "good" portion that is kept? (Think of what we've recently learned about those things that qualify us for the celestial kingdom.)
I love Elder Talmage's explanation of how parables teach. It is only after time and experience have shaped our character and deepened our thoughts that the "living kernel of gospel truth" is found in "the husk of a simple tale." I want to have those kernels burst to life.
I realized anew the amazing power that Christ possesses to heal. My faith and hopes were renewed as I thought of how my life has been changed because of the healing power of the gospel. The healing can be spiritual, mental, or physical.
I have always been drawn to the incident where Christ calms the storm. I can relate (maybe too well) to the apostle's fears. At times I've felt overwhelmed by circumstances and too have cried out, "Don't you care?" in my heart. There isn't a single instance when I've done so that peace (in some form) hasn't come. The trial has not been removed, but my heart has calmed. "Peace, be still" is one of my favorite phrases. In thinking about the incident this time, I had to consider how I express my faith during times of trial. Do I give up or give in early on? Do I murmur that it's "just too hard"? Or do I place my trust in Christ and move forward step by step (no matter how small they may be). I don't want to be asked, "Where is thy faith?".
I found another great example of faith in Jairus. He'd come seeking Christ's help but on their way to Jairus' home they were waylaid. He didn't show impatience, according to the account, at the delay (something I surely would have done). But demonstrated trust in Christ's power no matter what. Even when he received news that his daughter had indeed died, he didn't give up. Jesus, in his infinite love and wisdom, provided just what was needed at the time with His encouragement, "Be not afraid, only believe." How often do I let fear or impatience drive out my trust and faith. The instruction to "Be not afraid...." is one that speaks calmness amidst the storm---Peace.
The miracles of healing the women with an issue of blood and the blind men are both based on the faith of the individual. Elder Talmage notes that faith is a principle of power and when we demonstrate sufficient faith, the Lord is bound by eternal laws to bestow a blessing. The hard part comes when what we've envisioned as the blessing isn't given. I came to realize a few years ago that when "healing" doesn't come it may not be due to a lack of faith, but that Christ is giving me an opportunity to develop more faith and that that knowledge can be gained in no other way.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn more of my Savior. I know that He lives. He wants to help us learn all that we can so that we can become as He and Father are. He is the giver of Peace amidst any storm.
Please take the opportunity to share what you learned from these chapters. What a blessing it is to learn from each of you.
Love,
Karri Hoyt
As I read I was reminded of two things: 1) parables can be understood on so many levels depending upon our readiness to receive (how rich is the soil of the heart) and 2)the order in which they are given according to Joseph Smith teaches about the gathering of Israel. Elder Bednar in his most recent conference address stated that the sequence of events is often instructive. So what can we learn about the gathering of Israel from these parables or on a more personal level, how do we make sure that we are among those who are gathered in. Here are my ideas:
1) The Sower = Christ brings the gospel --> what is the condition of my heart? Am I open to learning the gospel principles and doctrines?
2) Wheat and Tares = Apostasy --> How am I staying firmly planted to prevent my testimony from weakening?
3) Mustard Seed = Restoration --> What changes (small) am I making to help me be more like Christ and will result in my greater growth of testimony and faith?
4) The Leaven = Testimony/Witness --> What am I doing to stand as a witness of Christ in all places and at all times?
5) Treasure in field = Center place --> Do I value the gospel and its teachings enough to center my life around them and give all that I have to posses them.
6) Pearl of Great Price = Expansion of Stake --> How devoted am I to learning more and increasing my knowledge of the gospel? After what am I seeking?
7) Dragnet = Judgement --> What am I doing to ensure that I am part of the "good" portion that is kept? (Think of what we've recently learned about those things that qualify us for the celestial kingdom.)
I love Elder Talmage's explanation of how parables teach. It is only after time and experience have shaped our character and deepened our thoughts that the "living kernel of gospel truth" is found in "the husk of a simple tale." I want to have those kernels burst to life.
I realized anew the amazing power that Christ possesses to heal. My faith and hopes were renewed as I thought of how my life has been changed because of the healing power of the gospel. The healing can be spiritual, mental, or physical.
I have always been drawn to the incident where Christ calms the storm. I can relate (maybe too well) to the apostle's fears. At times I've felt overwhelmed by circumstances and too have cried out, "Don't you care?" in my heart. There isn't a single instance when I've done so that peace (in some form) hasn't come. The trial has not been removed, but my heart has calmed. "Peace, be still" is one of my favorite phrases. In thinking about the incident this time, I had to consider how I express my faith during times of trial. Do I give up or give in early on? Do I murmur that it's "just too hard"? Or do I place my trust in Christ and move forward step by step (no matter how small they may be). I don't want to be asked, "Where is thy faith?".
I found another great example of faith in Jairus. He'd come seeking Christ's help but on their way to Jairus' home they were waylaid. He didn't show impatience, according to the account, at the delay (something I surely would have done). But demonstrated trust in Christ's power no matter what. Even when he received news that his daughter had indeed died, he didn't give up. Jesus, in his infinite love and wisdom, provided just what was needed at the time with His encouragement, "Be not afraid, only believe." How often do I let fear or impatience drive out my trust and faith. The instruction to "Be not afraid...." is one that speaks calmness amidst the storm---Peace.
The miracles of healing the women with an issue of blood and the blind men are both based on the faith of the individual. Elder Talmage notes that faith is a principle of power and when we demonstrate sufficient faith, the Lord is bound by eternal laws to bestow a blessing. The hard part comes when what we've envisioned as the blessing isn't given. I came to realize a few years ago that when "healing" doesn't come it may not be due to a lack of faith, but that Christ is giving me an opportunity to develop more faith and that that knowledge can be gained in no other way.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn more of my Savior. I know that He lives. He wants to help us learn all that we can so that we can become as He and Father are. He is the giver of Peace amidst any storm.
Please take the opportunity to share what you learned from these chapters. What a blessing it is to learn from each of you.
Love,
Karri Hoyt
Saturday, November 19, 2011
The Divine Gift of Repentance
Book of Mormon Reading
Mosiah 23-Alma 2
This weeks reading of the Book of Mormon was full of wonderful teachings, so much so I wouldn't have enough space to write what I learned. This week I want to focus on Alma the Younger and relate his experience with Elder Christofferson recent General Conference talk on "The Divine Gift of Repentance." In Mosiah 27, it described Alma the Younger as 'a very wicked and idolatrous man. A man of many words who did speak flattery to the people; therefore he led may of the people to do after the manner of his iniquities.' Alma the Younger 'rebelled against God and His teachings' to the point that an angel of the Lord appeared to help correct Alma's actions.. I'm grateful for that angel, he was the catalyst (next to the many prayers in Alma's behave) of his repentance process. Alma took this GRAND invitation of repentance and described it as 'being redeemed from the gall of bitterness and becoming a new creature.' Part of Alma's repentance process was to 'zealously strive to repair all the injuries which he had done to the church, confessing all his sins and publishing all the things he had seen. He became an instrument in the hands of God in bringing many to the knowledge of the truth of their Redeemer, Jesus Christ.'
In Elder Christopherson conference talk, he mentioned that the false teachings of the world is to rationalize and justify all the things we do. The worlds teachings give us liberty to indulge in any appetite or desire without the concern for consequences. When we are told to repent by our prophets (or angel in Alma's case), we should receive this invitation with JOY. Without repentance, there is no real progress or improvement in life. I don't think Alma the Younger could have been the great leader, prophet, teacher, parent and person he was without accepting the divine gift of repentance. I'm so glad Alma the Younger repented and became an instrument in the Lord's hand. All of his teachings and experiences in the Book of Mormon have inspired me and drawn me closer to my Savior. The same thing can happen to us! When we repent, the Atonement of Jesus Christ, in the words of Elder Christopherson and Alma the Younger,' points us to freedom, confindence and peace.' ' I could remember my pains no more and oh, what marvelous light... my soul was filled with joy (Alma 36)!
What did you learn about repentance from the example of Alma the Younger?
Your friend~
Staci Dearden-Parleys 7th Ward
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Book of Mormon Reading
Mosiah Chapters 7-22
I am so grateful for this assignment. Sad but true, when an assignment is given I tend to pay more attention to my reading. I don't allow words to flow in and out of my brain quite as fast as normal. In these chapters I am overwhelmed by the "meat" in this account. I could highlight the entire section. Ammon sets off to find the people of Lehi-Nephi. He finds King Limhi and finds the record of Zeniff. The record of King Noah and Abinadi are contained in these plates. There is so much to be learned through this reading. Abinadi gives one of the most wonderful sermons and calls to repentance in all the scriptures.
One of my favorite sciptures is in Mosiah 10:11 as Ammon is setting out to find his bretheren. I have skimmed over this before as just a "set up" scripture to another story of Laminite and Nephite fighting. However this reading I was struck by how much this pertains to me and how I approach assignments. It reads "Now, the Lamanites knew nothing concerning the Lord, nor the strength of the Lord, therefore they depended upon their own strength. Yet they were a strong people, as to the strength of men." How often do we rely on our own strengths instead of including the Lord's strength in our assignments and jobs. How much more effective and powerful could we be if we would remember to add God's strength in all we do.
I was also stricken this time with the idea that as Abinadi called King Noah to repentance, he also was a missionary to all who could hear his sermon. It is clear that Alma heard Abinadi and was converted as he listened. The scriptures do say that it caused Alma to plead for Abinadi's life to King Noah. I am not sure if Abinadi ever knew that upon the strength of his tesimony he brought Alma and therefore hundred of others to the waters of baptism. Abinadi may have gone to his death only knowing that he did not change King Noah's heart. Did he have any idea of the lives he did change?
We may never know the effectiveness of bearing witness to the truthfulness of the gospel. We may touch just one heart and in turn many others. I need to step up and bear witness of what I know to be true.
Teri Lyn Baucom
Parley's 5th Ward
Friday, November 4, 2011
Jesus the Christ - Chapters 15-16
I am going to begin by looking at Chapter 16 - "The Chosen Twelve". This chapter gives us insight into the calling of the 12 that served with the Savior in Jerusalem and a greater appreciation for those men who are called as special witnesses right now. One of the first things that we are told is that the Savior spent the night before their calling in solitary prayer and then called his disciples up and from among them he chose his twelve apostles. Though seven of them had received the call to "Come, follow me", until that day they had not been "ordained or set apart to their sacred office". Elder Talmage then introduces us to each member of the quorum and gives us insight into their character - as far as we know.
A couple of points - We know that Peter was "impulsive and stern…had many human weaknesses, yet in spite of them all he..overcame…and served his Lord…". Can we be inspired to overcome our frailties and become what the Lord expects of us? We learn of the importance of the connection with Peter, James and John - the events to which they alone were witness and their importance in this dispensation of "the restoration of the Holy Apostleship with all its ancient authority and power of blessing". The apostles were ordinary men called to a calling "at once exalted and specific, comprising as a distinguishing function that of personal and special witness to the divinity of Jesus Christ as the one and only Redeemer and Savior of mankind." I read those words and the warmth of the Spirit affected me the same way it does in General Conference when one of the brethren looks into my eyes and proclaims his calling as as an especial witness of the Savior. It is the same calling today as it was on that day when the Savior called His twelve to serve with Him!
Chapter 15, "The Lord of the Sabbath" had a far more personal effect on me than some of the other chapters in my reading thus far. One of the first things in this chapter is the observation that Israelites are distinguish from other peoples, "for the holiness of the Sabbath was made a mark of the covenant between the chosen people and their God"
Sabbath keeping as a "mark of the covenant" is a sobering thought. In the Bible Dictionary we learn that, "The importance of a sacred day for man to rest from his temporal labors, contemplate the word of the Lord, and assemble for public worship is a major item in a person’s spiritual development. Furthermore, a decay in the national religious life always follows any tendency toward carelessness in the matter of Sabbath observance. (italics added) The existence of a weekly holy day is a most important safeguard; it leaves a constant reminder to the individual of his need for spiritual sustenance and his duty before God, and serves as a witness to the world that there is such a thing as revealed religion." (Bible Dictionary, Sabbath)
This most important commandment brought the Savior to the attention of the Pharisees, for they criticized the Lord for His inappropriate Sabbath activities! As Brother Talmage gives us a brief history of the Sabbath (I loved the explanation of the more expanded view of the Sabbath - every 7 years the land was rested, the jubilee year where you lived off what had been accumulated in the prior 50 years during seasons of plenty, including redemption from mortgage and bond and debt - cool!) we are reminded that "The Sabbaths established by the Lord, whether of days of years, or of weeks of years, were to be times of refreshing, relief, blessing, bounty, and worship." Is that the Sabbath that we live? We are also reminded that long before the Savior came, the Sabbath had been reduced to a list of rules - "smothered under the weight of rabbinical injunction". In contrast, the Savior affirms that He "was the being through whom the Sabbath had been ordained" and that "it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days".
As I thought about this chapter, I was aware of how easy it is to get caught up in our lists of do's and don'ts for Sabbath observance instead of focusing on our Sabbath being a mark of the covenants that we have made with Him. Sisters, I hope we can all truly see the sabbath as a day of "refreshing, relief, blessing, bounty, and worship" and that we remember our covenants and whose day it truly is.
Janice Rampton
A couple of points - We know that Peter was "impulsive and stern…had many human weaknesses, yet in spite of them all he..overcame…and served his Lord…". Can we be inspired to overcome our frailties and become what the Lord expects of us? We learn of the importance of the connection with Peter, James and John - the events to which they alone were witness and their importance in this dispensation of "the restoration of the Holy Apostleship with all its ancient authority and power of blessing". The apostles were ordinary men called to a calling "at once exalted and specific, comprising as a distinguishing function that of personal and special witness to the divinity of Jesus Christ as the one and only Redeemer and Savior of mankind." I read those words and the warmth of the Spirit affected me the same way it does in General Conference when one of the brethren looks into my eyes and proclaims his calling as as an especial witness of the Savior. It is the same calling today as it was on that day when the Savior called His twelve to serve with Him!
Chapter 15, "The Lord of the Sabbath" had a far more personal effect on me than some of the other chapters in my reading thus far. One of the first things in this chapter is the observation that Israelites are distinguish from other peoples, "for the holiness of the Sabbath was made a mark of the covenant between the chosen people and their God"
Sabbath keeping as a "mark of the covenant" is a sobering thought. In the Bible Dictionary we learn that, "The importance of a sacred day for man to rest from his temporal labors, contemplate the word of the Lord, and assemble for public worship is a major item in a person’s spiritual development. Furthermore, a decay in the national religious life always follows any tendency toward carelessness in the matter of Sabbath observance. (italics added) The existence of a weekly holy day is a most important safeguard; it leaves a constant reminder to the individual of his need for spiritual sustenance and his duty before God, and serves as a witness to the world that there is such a thing as revealed religion." (Bible Dictionary, Sabbath)
This most important commandment brought the Savior to the attention of the Pharisees, for they criticized the Lord for His inappropriate Sabbath activities! As Brother Talmage gives us a brief history of the Sabbath (I loved the explanation of the more expanded view of the Sabbath - every 7 years the land was rested, the jubilee year where you lived off what had been accumulated in the prior 50 years during seasons of plenty, including redemption from mortgage and bond and debt - cool!) we are reminded that "The Sabbaths established by the Lord, whether of days of years, or of weeks of years, were to be times of refreshing, relief, blessing, bounty, and worship." Is that the Sabbath that we live? We are also reminded that long before the Savior came, the Sabbath had been reduced to a list of rules - "smothered under the weight of rabbinical injunction". In contrast, the Savior affirms that He "was the being through whom the Sabbath had been ordained" and that "it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days".
As I thought about this chapter, I was aware of how easy it is to get caught up in our lists of do's and don'ts for Sabbath observance instead of focusing on our Sabbath being a mark of the covenants that we have made with Him. Sisters, I hope we can all truly see the sabbath as a day of "refreshing, relief, blessing, bounty, and worship" and that we remember our covenants and whose day it truly is.
Janice Rampton
Book of Mormon: Jacob 6--Mosiah 6
The scriptural text that comprises Jacob 6 through Mosiah 6 are ones that repeatedly testify of the transformative power of the Atonement. Reflecting on this, I am left in awe for both the immensity of the gift the Savior has given us as well as the hope he provides for each one of us—not matter where we are in our spiritual progress.
Jacob, Enos, and King Benjamin each exercise great faith in the Lord’s power to save and transform. Through their faith, miracles happen. Jacob talks directly to us as he pleas for us to repent and return to the Lord “with full purpose of heart” and “cleave unto God as he cleaveth unto you” (Jacob 6:5). Jacob’s powerful testimony confounds the anti-Christ, Sherem, and ultimately leads Sherem to be able to confess the truth before he dies (Jacob 7).
Enos’ faith was evidenced by his pleading for forgiveness for his own sins and the Lord’s affirmation that his faith had made him whole. But the Atonement did more than “swept away” Enos’ guilt. Enos describes that he then began to feel “a desire for the welfare of my brethren.” It seems that the Savior’s Atonement expanded Enos’ concerns for more than just his own welfare; it opened him up to having Christ-like love for his fellow man (Enos 1).
King Benjamin’s faith leads him to give probably one of the greatest sermons ever given. As he testifies of service, repentance, and the atoning mission of the Savior’s life, the Spirit so testifies of these truths to Benjamin’s people that they want to enter into a new covenant, having “no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually” (Mosiah 5:2). How wonderful would it be if all could have hearts as pure as Benjamin’s people?
The Savior’s Atonement changes the hearts of the most vile sinners as well as those who are already seeking to live a Christ-like life. I would like to add my testimony that as we seek Him, will have our “hearts changed through faith on his name” (Mosiah 5:7).
Shannon Callister
Jacob, Enos, and King Benjamin each exercise great faith in the Lord’s power to save and transform. Through their faith, miracles happen. Jacob talks directly to us as he pleas for us to repent and return to the Lord “with full purpose of heart” and “cleave unto God as he cleaveth unto you” (Jacob 6:5). Jacob’s powerful testimony confounds the anti-Christ, Sherem, and ultimately leads Sherem to be able to confess the truth before he dies (Jacob 7).
Enos’ faith was evidenced by his pleading for forgiveness for his own sins and the Lord’s affirmation that his faith had made him whole. But the Atonement did more than “swept away” Enos’ guilt. Enos describes that he then began to feel “a desire for the welfare of my brethren.” It seems that the Savior’s Atonement expanded Enos’ concerns for more than just his own welfare; it opened him up to having Christ-like love for his fellow man (Enos 1).
King Benjamin’s faith leads him to give probably one of the greatest sermons ever given. As he testifies of service, repentance, and the atoning mission of the Savior’s life, the Spirit so testifies of these truths to Benjamin’s people that they want to enter into a new covenant, having “no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually” (Mosiah 5:2). How wonderful would it be if all could have hearts as pure as Benjamin’s people?
The Savior’s Atonement changes the hearts of the most vile sinners as well as those who are already seeking to live a Christ-like life. I would like to add my testimony that as we seek Him, will have our “hearts changed through faith on his name” (Mosiah 5:7).
Shannon Callister
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Take a minute and watch this beautiful video about the impact of the Book of Mormon in a single life…How does the Book of Mormon impact your life?
Book of Mormon Message
Book of Mormon Message
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Thank You and 2 Nephi 26 - Jacob 5
Dear Sisters of the Parleys Stake,
I wanted to thank all of you that helped with our Fall Service Project. It was a huge success thanks to each of you. I truly appreciated your support as did the Friends of the Library. We completed all 2000 bags and are grateful for your service. Thank you!
I wanted to thank all of you that helped with our Fall Service Project. It was a huge success thanks to each of you. I truly appreciated your support as did the Friends of the Library. We completed all 2000 bags and are grateful for your service. Thank you!
2 Nephi 26 - Jacob 5
Charles Dickens wrote . . . "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way.” Thus is the story of the Book of Mormon. We have so many examples in The Book of Mormon of the blessings (best of times) we can receive if we do what is right, or the destruction (worst of times) that will come if we do not following its teachings.
I love the teachings of The Book of Mormon, they are clear, concise and give us hope! I take great comfort in the scripture found in 2 Nephi 27:23, “For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles; and I will show unto the world that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever;” I am grateful for a Heavenly Father that is constant, loving and kind.
2 Nephi 31:20 “Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the work of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father,: Ye shall have eternal life.”
Delivering a final message to the people, Nephi taught the doctrine of Christ. He taught that we must follow the example of Jesus Christ, repent of our sins, be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, and endure to the end. This “doctrine of Christ” was revealed by the voice of Jesus Christ and confirmed by the voice of the Father. Nephi declared that as we follow the doctrine of Christ, we will receive eternal life. Continuing his message, Nephi encouraged us to “feast upon the words of Christ”, “receive the Holy Ghost”, and “pray always”. Nephi concluded his message with a plea that we believe in Jesus Christ. He taught that when we believe in Christ, we are prepared to receive His words in the scriptures.
One of my favorite scriptures in Jacob is Jacob 3:1 ‘But behold, I, Jacob would speak unto you that are pure in heart. Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause . . “
The Book of Mormon can help us be strong against the false teachings we encounter in the latter days.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Jesus the Christ - Progression, Individuals, and the Atonement
As I have contemplated what this experience has brought to my life, I wanted to write a little about the general impact, not necessarily specific chapters in the reading. Admittedly I got off to a late start on the reading and had to catch up to the schedule, but it has worked for me since I am approaching this book a little differently this time.
In this reading of Jesus the Christ, I am approaching the book with a focus on themes and patterns, rather than specific factual knowledge. The further into the book I get, it is becoming clear how everything is based on progression. So far, in the reading Christ progressed from the infant born in Bethlehem to a teacher and worker of miracles. Because I know how the mortal ministry ends, the book will continue to show Christ progressing towards fulfilling the atonement for us.
As my reading has progressed to where we are now, watching the ministry of Christ unfold, I am struck more forcefully how individual His ministry was. While He did some teaching to multitudes (such as the Sermon on the Mount), there are numerous examples and stories of Christ interacting with people one on one. He consistently takes the person from where they are and lifts them up to a higher level. He supports them in their need, and yet it seems that He also focuses on how to help them become "better". For example, Nicodemus talked with Christ about the need to be born again. We have this great teaching because of a personal interaction.
This week in the reading, Christ talked with the Samaritan woman. In this discussion, we learn many key principles of the importance of Christ's mission. He talks of being the living water, the importance of spiritual worship, and the declaration that He is the Christ. In the example of the nobleman's son, we learn the power of absolute faith in Christ and His power. The leper was healed physically, but then next healing discussed, related to the palsied man. The palsied man was carried to where Christ was staying by his friends. Here the man was healed spiritually first when Christ told him "thy sins be forgiven thee". Then Christ healed the man physically with "arise, and take up they bed, and go they way into thine house."
Christ has moved us from doctrinal knowledge (be born again), to addressing mortal needs (physical healing), to spiritual needs (sins forgiven). To me, this illustrates some of the aspects of the atonement. The atonement works for each of us on varying levels from supporting us in our physical needs to helping us heal and progress spiritually.
As I try to apply this to my life and my learning, I find that to follow Christ, I need to look at it on two levels. First, how do I personally increase my faith, and continue to be healed spiritually. Second, how do I help others around me, as individuals, on their journey and as we all continue to progress through mortality.
One great lesson, Christ will take us from where we are today. As we use the atonement in our lives and rely on Christ, He will help us move forward. As we continue to grow in faith and reliance on Him, He will support and guide us. This help and guidance isn't always provided directly. It may be through others that our needs are met. For example, the palsied man would not have been healed had his friends not taken him to Christ. As we support each other, friends looking to help and assist, it allows all of us to continue to progress and move forward.
This reading of Jesus the Christ continues to fortify my testimony of Christ, who He was in mortality, what His mission was on earth, what His mission is, and how much He loves each of us. He wants us to progress and move forward.
In this reading of Jesus the Christ, I am approaching the book with a focus on themes and patterns, rather than specific factual knowledge. The further into the book I get, it is becoming clear how everything is based on progression. So far, in the reading Christ progressed from the infant born in Bethlehem to a teacher and worker of miracles. Because I know how the mortal ministry ends, the book will continue to show Christ progressing towards fulfilling the atonement for us.
As my reading has progressed to where we are now, watching the ministry of Christ unfold, I am struck more forcefully how individual His ministry was. While He did some teaching to multitudes (such as the Sermon on the Mount), there are numerous examples and stories of Christ interacting with people one on one. He consistently takes the person from where they are and lifts them up to a higher level. He supports them in their need, and yet it seems that He also focuses on how to help them become "better". For example, Nicodemus talked with Christ about the need to be born again. We have this great teaching because of a personal interaction.
This week in the reading, Christ talked with the Samaritan woman. In this discussion, we learn many key principles of the importance of Christ's mission. He talks of being the living water, the importance of spiritual worship, and the declaration that He is the Christ. In the example of the nobleman's son, we learn the power of absolute faith in Christ and His power. The leper was healed physically, but then next healing discussed, related to the palsied man. The palsied man was carried to where Christ was staying by his friends. Here the man was healed spiritually first when Christ told him "thy sins be forgiven thee". Then Christ healed the man physically with "arise, and take up they bed, and go they way into thine house."
Christ has moved us from doctrinal knowledge (be born again), to addressing mortal needs (physical healing), to spiritual needs (sins forgiven). To me, this illustrates some of the aspects of the atonement. The atonement works for each of us on varying levels from supporting us in our physical needs to helping us heal and progress spiritually.
As I try to apply this to my life and my learning, I find that to follow Christ, I need to look at it on two levels. First, how do I personally increase my faith, and continue to be healed spiritually. Second, how do I help others around me, as individuals, on their journey and as we all continue to progress through mortality.
One great lesson, Christ will take us from where we are today. As we use the atonement in our lives and rely on Christ, He will help us move forward. As we continue to grow in faith and reliance on Him, He will support and guide us. This help and guidance isn't always provided directly. It may be through others that our needs are met. For example, the palsied man would not have been healed had his friends not taken him to Christ. As we support each other, friends looking to help and assist, it allows all of us to continue to progress and move forward.
This reading of Jesus the Christ continues to fortify my testimony of Christ, who He was in mortality, what His mission was on earth, what His mission is, and how much He loves each of us. He wants us to progress and move forward.
Friday, October 28, 2011
The Second Coming of Christ and the Atonement
Christ's 2nd Coming and The Atonement
1 Nephi 22- 2 Nephi 9
I'm glad that I waited to blog on this section until after we had our RS lessons on the 2nd Coming of Christ. This tied in perfectly with the lessons and added new insight to me.
1 Nephi 22: This chapter talks about how Nephi was prophesying about how Israel would be scattered and eventually re-gathered. We now know that has happened. The 12 tribes of Israel were scattered over all the earth. Today most of the tribes have been accounted for in individual patriarchial blessings but that scattering divided and spread the Israelites among the Gentiles. Nephi also saw the day when the Israelites would be regathered. We know that that has happened now both literally (in 1947 when Israel became it's own country and was partitioned off from Palestine, many jews reconvened together there) and figuratively (with the baptism of a gentile, that person is adopted into the house of Israel making our Wards and Stakes places of spiritual gathering). Nephi goes on to describe the actual 2nd coming where Christ will appear in that "Great and Dreadful Day" and institute His government and take his rightful place as the leader of the Earth. The wicked will be removed from the Earth (burned as stubble) and only the righteous will remain. Satan will be bound because the world will only have righteous people living in it and they will not succumb to Satan's temptations and Satan will therefore have no more power over the people.
Many people fear that day but in verse 22 it states, "the righteous need not fear for they are those that shall not be confounded". We have heard from many of our Prophets the same message that "If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear". President Hinckley quoted that over and over especially in regards to food storage and spiritual emergency preparedness. If we do what we should be doing now, we have no reason to think that we will not be saved with the righteous when Christ comes again.
2 Nephi 1-9 These passages are beautiful and speak about how God set up The United States of America as a choice land where its inhabitants could have agency and learn how to choose right from wrong for themselves and how that was crucial in preparing the way for Joseph Smith to restore the Gospel of Jesus Christ into a land that allowed freedom of religion and that men and women could choose for themsleves what they believe.
Nephi also talks about the 3 different men named Joseph (Lehi's son, Joseph of Egypt and Joseph Smith and how they each were seen in visions by the others and how they wereinstrumental in furthering God's work. He also describes in Chapt 5 how the Lamanites descented from the Nephites and they were smitten with a curse and their skin was darkened.
In Chapt 8-9 the Atonement is the focus and how God's grace and mercy are required for us if we are ever to live with Him again because we can never make it on our own. The Atonement was the single greatest gift ever given to the world and Christ as our brother, loved us enough to die for us so that we may utilize the Atonement so that after all our own efforts, the Lord's grace will make up the difference.
The whole chapter 9 is a beautiful testiment of how perfect a plan our Father in Heaven has created for us. I know this was long but there were a lof of really important parts in this reading. I want you each to know that I know that this Gospel is true and that we are each important to our Heavenly Father. He loves us and wants us to be happy. He has given us church leaders, scriptures, media and even this blog so that we can share our convictions with others. I love that I can be a part of trying to serve and further his work. I'm humbled by the opportunity to serve in my calling and know that each of us will be blessed each time we try to better our lives or the lives of those around us.
1 Nephi 22- 2 Nephi 9
I'm glad that I waited to blog on this section until after we had our RS lessons on the 2nd Coming of Christ. This tied in perfectly with the lessons and added new insight to me.
1 Nephi 22: This chapter talks about how Nephi was prophesying about how Israel would be scattered and eventually re-gathered. We now know that has happened. The 12 tribes of Israel were scattered over all the earth. Today most of the tribes have been accounted for in individual patriarchial blessings but that scattering divided and spread the Israelites among the Gentiles. Nephi also saw the day when the Israelites would be regathered. We know that that has happened now both literally (in 1947 when Israel became it's own country and was partitioned off from Palestine, many jews reconvened together there) and figuratively (with the baptism of a gentile, that person is adopted into the house of Israel making our Wards and Stakes places of spiritual gathering). Nephi goes on to describe the actual 2nd coming where Christ will appear in that "Great and Dreadful Day" and institute His government and take his rightful place as the leader of the Earth. The wicked will be removed from the Earth (burned as stubble) and only the righteous will remain. Satan will be bound because the world will only have righteous people living in it and they will not succumb to Satan's temptations and Satan will therefore have no more power over the people.
Many people fear that day but in verse 22 it states, "the righteous need not fear for they are those that shall not be confounded". We have heard from many of our Prophets the same message that "If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear". President Hinckley quoted that over and over especially in regards to food storage and spiritual emergency preparedness. If we do what we should be doing now, we have no reason to think that we will not be saved with the righteous when Christ comes again.
2 Nephi 1-9 These passages are beautiful and speak about how God set up The United States of America as a choice land where its inhabitants could have agency and learn how to choose right from wrong for themselves and how that was crucial in preparing the way for Joseph Smith to restore the Gospel of Jesus Christ into a land that allowed freedom of religion and that men and women could choose for themsleves what they believe.
Nephi also talks about the 3 different men named Joseph (Lehi's son, Joseph of Egypt and Joseph Smith and how they each were seen in visions by the others and how they wereinstrumental in furthering God's work. He also describes in Chapt 5 how the Lamanites descented from the Nephites and they were smitten with a curse and their skin was darkened.
In Chapt 8-9 the Atonement is the focus and how God's grace and mercy are required for us if we are ever to live with Him again because we can never make it on our own. The Atonement was the single greatest gift ever given to the world and Christ as our brother, loved us enough to die for us so that we may utilize the Atonement so that after all our own efforts, the Lord's grace will make up the difference.
The whole chapter 9 is a beautiful testiment of how perfect a plan our Father in Heaven has created for us. I know this was long but there were a lof of really important parts in this reading. I want you each to know that I know that this Gospel is true and that we are each important to our Heavenly Father. He loves us and wants us to be happy. He has given us church leaders, scriptures, media and even this blog so that we can share our convictions with others. I love that I can be a part of trying to serve and further his work. I'm humbled by the opportunity to serve in my calling and know that each of us will be blessed each time we try to better our lives or the lives of those around us.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Book of Mormon Chapters 2Nephi 10-25
I hesitate to add to this blog so soon after Sister Corinne Cannon's Comments. I hope everyone had a chance to read her comments yesterday. Please make sure to read her blog on the reading assignment for Jesus, The Christ.
These are a few thoughts I had on the Book of Mormon reading this past week. In 2 Nephi 10:3, Jacob tells us of the atonement of the Savior and introduces the name "Christ" for the first time.
"Wherefore, as I said unto you, it must needs be expedient that Christ--for in the last night the angel spake unto me that this should be His name--should come among the Jews,"
In 1 Nephi, Jesus, had been referred to as "Messiah", "Savior" and "Redeemer", but now, as Jacob tells us in this scripture, we know Him as the "Christ". It's not until Chapter 26, that Jacob actually refers to our Savior as, "Jesus, the Christ".
Then, in 2 Nephi Chapter 11, Nephi takes over the narrative again. These chapters of the Book of Mormon are compared to the Isaiah chapters 2 to 14 in The Old Testament.
I will admit, sisters, that these "Isaiah" chapters, while so beautifully written, have been chapters that I often "leap frog" through because I am a simple girl and I don't always understand what Isaiah is saying! So, imagine my surprise that this would be my reading (and blogging) assignment this week!
These chapters vividly describe the consequences for the wickedness and folly of the nations of the world. And yet, in Isaiah's writings, I see two major highlights; the events leading up to the birth of the Savior, and the events leading up to His second coming. While I do not always understand everything that Isaiah writes, I do understand the importance of knowing the Savior, Jesus Christ, and of His birth, ministry, atonement, resurrection and His second coming. I'm sure that each of you have other thoughts on these chapters and saw things with deeper clarity. What were some of the highlights for you in this reading?
In 2 Nephi 25:26, Nephi writes, "And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins."
I hope that each of you will take a few minutes to add your thoughts to this blog. I am grateful for the extra study allowed me this week to contemplate these chapters of the Book of Mormon. I love that the women of the Parleys Stake are "talking" of Christ, rejoicing in Him and preaching of Him, in this weekly blog. I testify of my love for the Savior and of my love for these sacred scriptures.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Dear Sisters,
What a wonderful time of the year it is to conclude our summer activities and spend more time contemplating our many blessings. I am grateful to have the scriptures in my life--particularly the Old Testament because of the many great prophets who so diligently wrote and preserved them for thousands of years so the Word of God would continue to teach us in these Latter Days. And with these writings we can find so many types and predictions of Jesus Christ.
I loved Chapter Five of Jesus the Christ "Earthly Advent of the Christ Predicted".
Brother Talmage reminds us that the Old Testament was available 'long before the time of Christ's birth...[with] the utterances of divinely commissioned prophets,...records of appointed historians, and the songs of inspired poets"
We first see in the Creation Story how "through the seed of the woman should come the power to bruise the adversary's head."
He reminds us of Jacob's blessing to Judah in Gen. 49:10--The sceptre shall not depart from Judah,nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come(a name regarded by many biblical scholars as a prophecy of the coming of Messiah and further discussed in his Chapter Notes #2); and unto him shall the gathering of the people be."
Moses instigated laws of sacrifice to remind the people that "The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken." (Deut. 18:15-19) Brother Talmage says: "The paschal lamb...was a particular type of the Lamb of God who in due time would be slain for the sins of he world." He gives many foot-notes of scriptures from the New Testament and Book of Mormon that give further enlightenment of Christ as the Lamb of God.
He then goes on to describe scriptures from Job, songs from David's Psalms, passages from Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, Micah, Zechariah and Isaiah that prophecy of Christ.
It is interesting to read his Note #1 in this chapter on 'The Antiquity of Sacrifice as a Prototype of Christ's Atoning Death' as he discusses the various pros and cons of Messiah predictions in the Old Testament.
The sixth Ward presented a fireside on Monday night featuring the great-granddaughter of Brother Talmage who gave us better insight into his life, diligence and devotion to the Savior--insights that will be discussed in later posts. There is one correction I would like to make from my first post: that Talmage lived in the temple while he wrote his book, Jesus the Christ. His great-granddaughter said that this is erroneous--he went home late every night!
I hope you are enjoying reading Jesus the Christ or The Book of Mormon with our stake. I think it creates a wonderful spirit among us, and I appreciate your many wonderful thoughts and comments.
What a wonderful time of the year it is to conclude our summer activities and spend more time contemplating our many blessings. I am grateful to have the scriptures in my life--particularly the Old Testament because of the many great prophets who so diligently wrote and preserved them for thousands of years so the Word of God would continue to teach us in these Latter Days. And with these writings we can find so many types and predictions of Jesus Christ.
I loved Chapter Five of Jesus the Christ "Earthly Advent of the Christ Predicted".
Brother Talmage reminds us that the Old Testament was available 'long before the time of Christ's birth...[with] the utterances of divinely commissioned prophets,...records of appointed historians, and the songs of inspired poets"
We first see in the Creation Story how "through the seed of the woman should come the power to bruise the adversary's head."
He reminds us of Jacob's blessing to Judah in Gen. 49:10--The sceptre shall not depart from Judah,nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come(a name regarded by many biblical scholars as a prophecy of the coming of Messiah and further discussed in his Chapter Notes #2); and unto him shall the gathering of the people be."
Moses instigated laws of sacrifice to remind the people that "The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken." (Deut. 18:15-19) Brother Talmage says: "The paschal lamb...was a particular type of the Lamb of God who in due time would be slain for the sins of he world." He gives many foot-notes of scriptures from the New Testament and Book of Mormon that give further enlightenment of Christ as the Lamb of God.
He then goes on to describe scriptures from Job, songs from David's Psalms, passages from Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, Micah, Zechariah and Isaiah that prophecy of Christ.
It is interesting to read his Note #1 in this chapter on 'The Antiquity of Sacrifice as a Prototype of Christ's Atoning Death' as he discusses the various pros and cons of Messiah predictions in the Old Testament.
The sixth Ward presented a fireside on Monday night featuring the great-granddaughter of Brother Talmage who gave us better insight into his life, diligence and devotion to the Savior--insights that will be discussed in later posts. There is one correction I would like to make from my first post: that Talmage lived in the temple while he wrote his book, Jesus the Christ. His great-granddaughter said that this is erroneous--he went home late every night!
I hope you are enjoying reading Jesus the Christ or The Book of Mormon with our stake. I think it creates a wonderful spirit among us, and I appreciate your many wonderful thoughts and comments.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
We want to hear from you!!!!
We have had some sisters that have wondered exactly HOW to comment on the blog, so we have prepared a short tutorial which will also be available on a card from your Ward RS President. Until then, here is the text portion for your edification.
How to Comment on the Blog...
1. On your computer, go to parleyswomen.blogspot.com (Congratulations! You are already here!!)
2. Read through the beautiful, thoughtful blog posts that are there from the Ward RS Presidents and Stake RS Presidency.
3. Ponder your own reading
4. Choose a post(s) you would like to add your comment on
5. Scroll down to the bottom of the post and find the line that says "Posted by...". To the right of that, it says "comments" - preceded by a number.
6. Click on the word "comments" and a window will open up with a place for you to type in your comments (and read all previous comments)! Please be kind and thoughtful and add your full name to your comment.
7. Click on the button below the window to the left that says "Publish Comment"!
8. You did it! It's that easy and we hope you will share with all of us so that we can get to know you better!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Book of Mormon Chapters 1Ne 12-21
Hi sisters,neighbors, friends,
How I have loved sharing the joys of reading the Book of Mormon and Jesus the Christ together. Wonderful experiences, results of consistent study of the Savior and His grand and glorious purposes have been topics of discussion among us for these past weeks. I am trying to read both works and one certainly gives insight to another.
I would like to comment on the Book of Mormon reading of two weeks ago, of Nephi chapters 12-21. And though it is past reading it contains such poignant lessons that I cannot let it go by. There are so many exciting teachings in these chapters, but I want to focus on just two of the standout parts.
These are only 2 of the myriad of insights I am gaining as I read with you all. What have you 'seen' in recent readings? Please share. Please teach me more!
love to all of you.
Shawn Morgan
How I have loved sharing the joys of reading the Book of Mormon and Jesus the Christ together. Wonderful experiences, results of consistent study of the Savior and His grand and glorious purposes have been topics of discussion among us for these past weeks. I am trying to read both works and one certainly gives insight to another.
I would like to comment on the Book of Mormon reading of two weeks ago, of Nephi chapters 12-21. And though it is past reading it contains such poignant lessons that I cannot let it go by. There are so many exciting teachings in these chapters, but I want to focus on just two of the standout parts.
- The name of the book, The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Christ. The subtitle , Another Testament of Christ, is most often omitted when making reference to this book of scripture for convenience sake. I am reminded of its importance, though, when I read about the necessity of another testament of Christ in 1Nephi. Chapter 13 speaks specifically of the Bible, or the record of the Jews, that contains "the covenants of the Lord which he hath made with the house of Israel; and it also containeth many of the prophecies of the holy prophets. . . wherefore they are of great worth unto the gentiles." The angel of the Lord speaking to Nephi goes on to say "when it proceeded forth from the mouth of a Jew it contained the fulness of the gospel of the Lord" but over centuries of time and in Satan's efforts to "pervert the right ways of the Lord. . . there are many plain and precious things taken away from the book. . . (and) because of the many plain and precious things which have been taken out of the book . . . an exceedingly great many do stumble, yea insomuch that Satan hath great power over them." 1Ne 13:23,26-29 This same angel of the Lord then says to Nephi in the words of the Savior, "I will be merciful . . . I will bring forth. . . in mine own power, much of my gospel, which shall be plain and precious. . . These last records. . . shall establish the truth of the first . . . and shall make known the plain and precious things which have been taken away from them and shall make known to all. . . that the Lamb of God is the Son of the Eternal Father, and the Savior of the world; and that all men must come unto him." 1Ne 13:34,40 I love this explanation of the need for the Book of Mormon Another Testament of Christ.
- The other standout verse of these chapters that I would like to mention is something we teach our children and need to be reminded of ourselves. It is the simple admonition to "liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning".1Ne 19:23 It took me some time to understand how literally this is to be taken. About 8 or so years ago I was serving with some remarkable women in our stake. They were women of inspiration and understanding. They were wordsmiths and poets. Masters of metaphor. It is from them that the light of symbolism went on in my soul. They were able to dissect and make plain the precious truths and I was able to 'see' with spiritual eyes what the lives and experiences of ancient people and not-so ancient people had to do with me. I learned about symbolism. I learned about metaphor. I learned about types and shadows of Christ. About noticing the evidences of the Creator in all things. It was so exciting! They taught me to 'see'. I have not read the scriptures or learned of gospel principles the same way since. I will always love these women and what they taught me. I am knowing and loving our Savior, Jesus Christ more deeply, and seeing Him more clearly. I love being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints!!!
These are only 2 of the myriad of insights I am gaining as I read with you all. What have you 'seen' in recent readings? Please share. Please teach me more!
love to all of you.
Shawn Morgan
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Jesus The Christ
Dear Sisters of the Parley's Stake
I appreciate the oppurtunity to read "Jesus The Christ". I have started reading before, but haven't read the entire book. I enjoy having a schedule and motivation to finish this time. I'm sure as each sister reads about the Savior, his life, and his ministry, they will come to know our Savior on a personal level. I feel this is the most important reason to read this book. The more we know and understand the Savior's mission, the more we can come to feel of his spirit and direction in our lives.
The first seven chapters outline the preexistence and foreordination of Jesus Christ. Two of those chapters were especially inspiring to me. Chapter three, "The Need of a Redeemer", was very personal to me. It testifies to me of a loving Heavenly Father who knew, as hard as I try, that I would make mistakes and sin. I felt my Heavenly Father's love as quoted on page 17 and 18 "It was necessary that a means of redemption be provided, whereby erring man might make amends, and by compliance with established law achieve salvation and eventual exaltation in the eternal worlds. The power of death was to be overcome, so that, though men would of necessity die, they would live anew, their spirits clothed with immortalized bodies over which death could not again prevail."
Devine revelation and prophecy of Jesus Christ was outlined in Chapter 5. It testifies to me of the inspiration and truth of the Holy Scriptures. I loved reading about the prophecy of Christ's birth by prophets in the Book of Mormon and the Old Testament. On page 51 I quote, "At a later time Nephi writes, not as his father's scribe, but as a prophet and revelator voicing the word of God as made known to himself. He was permitted to behold in vision and to declare to his people the circumstances of the Messiah's birth, His baptism by John and the ministration of the Holy Ghost with its accompanying sign of the dove....". It only strenghtens my testimony to the divinity of the Book of Mormon as another testament of Jesus Christ.
My testimony continues to grow as I read and study. I love my Savior and I feel his love as I pray for continued understanding and direction through the words of this sacred book.
Liz Niederhauser Parley's 6th ward
I appreciate the oppurtunity to read "Jesus The Christ". I have started reading before, but haven't read the entire book. I enjoy having a schedule and motivation to finish this time. I'm sure as each sister reads about the Savior, his life, and his ministry, they will come to know our Savior on a personal level. I feel this is the most important reason to read this book. The more we know and understand the Savior's mission, the more we can come to feel of his spirit and direction in our lives.
The first seven chapters outline the preexistence and foreordination of Jesus Christ. Two of those chapters were especially inspiring to me. Chapter three, "The Need of a Redeemer", was very personal to me. It testifies to me of a loving Heavenly Father who knew, as hard as I try, that I would make mistakes and sin. I felt my Heavenly Father's love as quoted on page 17 and 18 "It was necessary that a means of redemption be provided, whereby erring man might make amends, and by compliance with established law achieve salvation and eventual exaltation in the eternal worlds. The power of death was to be overcome, so that, though men would of necessity die, they would live anew, their spirits clothed with immortalized bodies over which death could not again prevail."
Devine revelation and prophecy of Jesus Christ was outlined in Chapter 5. It testifies to me of the inspiration and truth of the Holy Scriptures. I loved reading about the prophecy of Christ's birth by prophets in the Book of Mormon and the Old Testament. On page 51 I quote, "At a later time Nephi writes, not as his father's scribe, but as a prophet and revelator voicing the word of God as made known to himself. He was permitted to behold in vision and to declare to his people the circumstances of the Messiah's birth, His baptism by John and the ministration of the Holy Ghost with its accompanying sign of the dove....". It only strenghtens my testimony to the divinity of the Book of Mormon as another testament of Jesus Christ.
My testimony continues to grow as I read and study. I love my Savior and I feel his love as I pray for continued understanding and direction through the words of this sacred book.
Liz Niederhauser Parley's 6th ward
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Jesus The Christ
Dear women of the Parley's stake,
I have always wanted to read "Jesus The Christ" but felt a bit intimidated from comments I had heard about it being deep and intense. Albert Einstein said that James E. Talmage was one of the smartest men he had ever met. When the stake R.S challenged us to read it I thought, this is it! I am going to do it! Some of my favorite scriptures came to mind...Phillipians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me; D&C 6:36 Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not; Mark 10:27... with God all things are possible. Knowing that I had to blog about it made me even more nervous. Now that I am reading, I wonder to myself, what that was all about...fear can be so paralyzing.
I am loving this book and learning things I didn't know before!!! Isn't it interesting how you've been taught or known something all of your life and someone says it differently and it finally strikes home in a way that it didn't before. After reading chapters one through four, the following stood out to me.
.... Satan felt triumphant in tempting Eve to partake of the fruit in the garden of Eden(page 20). This passage gave me a new perspective on death...and life. Satan loves to see us hurting and weak, giving into his temptations. It makes me want to try even harder to not let him have any sort of power over me... to always keep my focus on the Savior, the Atonement, His eternal plan and the happiness it brings to my life.
...I liked this analogy on pages 27-28. "The need of a Redeemer lies in the inability of man to raise himself from the temporal to the spiritual plane, from the lower kingdom to the higher. In this conception we are not without analogies in the natural world." The plant, of a higher order than the soil, reaches for the soil to grow. The animal reaches for the plant, and man reaches for the animal. We need a Redeemer and Savior to reach down and lift us so we can obtain a higher condition of spiritual life...a higher kingdom.
...I love the idea that our Heavenly Father has a full knowledge of the nature and disposition of each of His children. (note no. 1 chapter 3). I am grateful for and feel strongly about the power of choice in my life. (note no 2 in chapter 3).
I bear testimony of my Savior Jesus Christ and I am grateful to have this opportunity to learn more of Him.
Mary Lee Warner... Parley's 4th
I have always wanted to read "Jesus The Christ" but felt a bit intimidated from comments I had heard about it being deep and intense. Albert Einstein said that James E. Talmage was one of the smartest men he had ever met. When the stake R.S challenged us to read it I thought, this is it! I am going to do it! Some of my favorite scriptures came to mind...Phillipians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me; D&C 6:36 Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not; Mark 10:27... with God all things are possible. Knowing that I had to blog about it made me even more nervous. Now that I am reading, I wonder to myself, what that was all about...fear can be so paralyzing.
I am loving this book and learning things I didn't know before!!! Isn't it interesting how you've been taught or known something all of your life and someone says it differently and it finally strikes home in a way that it didn't before. After reading chapters one through four, the following stood out to me.
.... Satan felt triumphant in tempting Eve to partake of the fruit in the garden of Eden(page 20). This passage gave me a new perspective on death...and life. Satan loves to see us hurting and weak, giving into his temptations. It makes me want to try even harder to not let him have any sort of power over me... to always keep my focus on the Savior, the Atonement, His eternal plan and the happiness it brings to my life.
...I liked this analogy on pages 27-28. "The need of a Redeemer lies in the inability of man to raise himself from the temporal to the spiritual plane, from the lower kingdom to the higher. In this conception we are not without analogies in the natural world." The plant, of a higher order than the soil, reaches for the soil to grow. The animal reaches for the plant, and man reaches for the animal. We need a Redeemer and Savior to reach down and lift us so we can obtain a higher condition of spiritual life...a higher kingdom.
...I love the idea that our Heavenly Father has a full knowledge of the nature and disposition of each of His children. (note no. 1 chapter 3). I am grateful for and feel strongly about the power of choice in my life. (note no 2 in chapter 3).
I bear testimony of my Savior Jesus Christ and I am grateful to have this opportunity to learn more of Him.
Mary Lee Warner... Parley's 4th
Nephi's Example
Book of Mormon -1 Nephi Chapter 1-11
What a privilege and blessing to read the Book of Mormon. I'm grateful for the time to read, pray and think about the teachings of Jesus Christ from these ancient prophets. What would our lives be like if we didn't have the opportunity to read about the prophet Nephi? First Nephi chapter 1-11 mentions many examples of Nephi's character I would like to share:
What a privilege and blessing to read the Book of Mormon. I'm grateful for the time to read, pray and think about the teachings of Jesus Christ from these ancient prophets. What would our lives be like if we didn't have the opportunity to read about the prophet Nephi? First Nephi chapter 1-11 mentions many examples of Nephi's character I would like to share:
- Nephi honored his parents.
- Nephi was obedient to his father-the prophet Lehi's teachings.
- Nephi was obedient to the Lord's commandment of returning back to Jerusalem, to obtain the brass plates and gather Ishmael's family to join them on their journey to the promised land.
- Both commandments of returning back to Jerusalem, Nephi demonstrated great faith. He said " I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know the Lord giveth no commandment unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the things which he commandeth them." 1 Nephi 3:7
- Obtaining the brass plates was not an easy commandment, but Nephi knew the Lord had all power, wisdom and nothing is too hard for the Lord. These truths about the Lord helped Nephi's faith, work & courage--all he could do to obtain the brass plates.
- Nephi desired to know the things his father Lehi saw in regards to the "Tree of Life" vision. Through Nephi's righteous desires and sharing his desires to Heavenly Father, he received the same vision his father receive. Nephi came to know what the "Love of God" is-- His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Nephi also saw in vision Christ's birth, mission, death & resurrection 600 years before the event happend.
- Nephi was obedient to record all his witnesses of Jesus Christ. Nephi's intent of his sacred record was to "persuade all men to come unto Christ." 1 Nephi 6:4
In closing, I would like to share my favorite scripture from these readings. In 1 Nephi 9:6, it states, " But the Lord knoweth all things from the beginning, wherefore he prepareth a way to accomplish all his works among the children of men, for behold he hath all power unto the fullfilling of all his words. And thus it is. Amen."
What are your thoughts about Nephi's example or your favorite scripture from your readings in 1 Nephi chapter 1-11?
Love, Staci Dearden--Parley's 7th Ward
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