Discipleship: Following in the Savior's Footsteps

Some say that children should come with little instruction manuals tied to their wrist when their born. Something that would tell parents how to raise a particular child so that they become a happy, productive, well-adjusted adult in the end. Without costing us our sanity in the mean time.

Not me. I firmly believe that children should be born with a warning label tattooed on their cute little bums. Something like:

“Caution. They may look cute now, but watch out when they learn to use words like ‘no’ and ‘why’. Eventually they’ll embarrass you in public, keep you up all night, take advantage of your generosity, and take control of the car keys, the phone and the fridge. One moment they’ll break your heart, then the next it will burst with joy…”

I could go on and on, but that wouldn’t all fit would it? I guess “Caution” would be enough.

Parenthood is a tough road, but it’s also one of the greatest blessings Heavenly Father can give us. So what do we do with these little bundles of joy He’s placed in our care? What is our role as disciples of Christ when it comes to our children?

Fortunately, discipleship comes with a special knowledge: we are not left alone to raise our children. We have an instruction manual, a mentor, and a surveillance system all at our disposal if we choose to take advantage of them.

Read the instruction manual.

When we absorb ourselves daily in the scriptures, the words of God have a chance to imprint themselves on our hearts. His will, His instructions, can lead us through the most difficult paths. Even parenthood.

Sometimes the answers are directly given, like:

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6

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“And ye will not suffer your children that they go hungry, or naked; neither will ye suffer that they transgress the laws of God, and fight and quarrel one with another, and serve the devil, who is the master of sin, or who is the devil spirit which hath been spoken of by our fathers, he being an enemy to all righteousness.
But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another.” Mosiah 4:14-15

Sometimes their a little more general, like:

“Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;” 1 Thessalonians 1:3

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“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:” James 1:19

They may not specifically say, “Jimmy would do better in karate than basketball” but, they will tell you how to decide.

“But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must cask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.
But if it be not right you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought that shall cause you to forget the thing which is wrong…” Doctrine and Covenants 9:8-9

Learn from the example of the teacher.

As with everything, Jesus Christ is our perfect example. The more we become like Him and try to emulate His actions they closer we become to Him and to those we love.

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel; and ye know the things that ye must do in my church; for the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do; for that which ye have seen me do even that shall ye do.” 3 Nephi 27:21

Listen to the Spirit for daily updates.

When we are trying our best: learning from God’s words, learning from Christ’s life and love, praying and developing our relationship with our eternal Heavenly Father and our Elder Brother, Jesus Christ, we open our hearts to the presence of the Holy Ghost. We are entitled to his guidance and inspiration from day to day and moment to moment. He comforts, He teaches, He warns, He inspires, He leads us (and those we love) to Christ.

“Whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.” Doctrine and Covenants 84:88

Does that mean we’ll have perfect children? Not at all. Just like us, they have agency. Just like us they can choose Christ or not. Even when they are trying their best, they’ll still make mistakes. Just like us.

Picture yourself on a vacation in the mountains. Even as you unpack your bags, the trees and the path seem to be calling: beckoning you to come and enjoy their beauty. A journey is begun which takes you deep into the forest until time and the trail escape you. Until all at once you realize it is getting dark, you are in fact lost and that you brought nothing with you that would help get you back to the safety of your cabin.

Without canteen, flashlight or compass and very little hope, you have but a few options. You either keep walking and hope you find a way out, call for help and hope someone finds you, or sit down, hang your head in despair and hope things will look better in the morning.

Thankfully, help arrives: a ranger from the area. He sits with you in the glow of His lantern, offering you His canteen and a granola bar as He dresses your cuts and bruises from the trail and tells you where you are. Then, He walks with you, guiding your steps and calming your fears until you reach the safety of your cabin.

Upon entering this life we, in a sense, took a vacation from all that we knew to a place we had never been. We left the presence of our Heavenly Father and now must find our way home again. Fortunately, most of us are willing to let the Ranger, Jesus Christ, help us on our way. He has promised us His constant companionship. He will bind up our wounds and provide us with living waters and the bread of life. He will guide us home.

Is a lantern, canteen and a granola bar the extent of our Elder Brother’s power or His willingness to help us?

Let’s change the ending a bit. This time Ranger says, “I know that you are tired and it’s late, but if you will trust me and follow me there is someplace I want you to see.” Agreeing to follow, you put your life in His hands and begin to walk.

When it seems that you have been walking in darkness forever with only the glow of a friendly lantern to guide your steps, you begin to notice the path before you is changing. The trees and bushes are beginning to thin. Off in the distance, the faintest morning glow is beginning to appear. The sweet sounds of the morning are replacing the mysteries of the night. As you continue to walk towards the coming dawn, hope and excitement begin to fill your heart.

There it is!

A meadow of vibrant wild flowers and the bank of the most beautiful lake you have ever seen. It’s clear blue surface ripples into sparkling diamonds which seem to shout out its purity and sweetness. Off to the side, in the most peaceful spot of the meadow, sets a table. All arrayed in shining white linen, it is prepared with an elegant menu of tempting dishes.

Christ then extends an invitation: “Come, rest where you need never hunger or thirst. Where I will be your constant companion. Where you can stay as long as you wish.”

What is the difference between the two endings? Our expectations and our commitment to them. Many of us have sold ourselves short. Although we may believe that the table is spread for some, most of us can hardly imagine that it is meant for us. We therefore construct a wall between us and our Elder brother and occasionally say, “I need of a sip of water” when there is a feast on the other side of the wall. We can accept that some may receive revelations or live every aspect of their lives by the promptings of the spirit; but, we rationalize and justify this so that it can not, and in the end does not, apply to us. We all have the same promises given to us. If we hunger and thirst after righteousness and do all that is in our power these blessings can not be withheld.

Sadly, many of us simply cannot envision ourselves as that spiritually aware, so we set ourselves up for failure. What we do to ensure we stay on a lantern and granola bar path is very subtle. We may even feel we are doing rather well and have a sense of satisfaction with our course. The wall between us and the Savior is slowly built brick by brick. We add a brick for the harsh words about the driver in front of us, a missed opportunity to serve, a forgotten morning prayer. Then, when we tire from the winds around us and the efforts of building the wall we repent and ask for his canteen, drink, return it and go on building our wall. We seem oblivious to the potential of tearing down the wall instead of building it up.

The basic difference between that which can and will happen is our attitude, our expectations, and our faith. Can we put forth the faith to envision ourselves reaping the benefits of Christ’s promises, and then are we willing to invest ourselves in the work to make it possible? Christ can but knock and wait for us to be willing to open the door and let Him in. We have the keys.

There is a story in the Book of Mormon about a young man. Enos begins his account by thanking his father for teaching him the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Then he tells of some time he spent by himself, alone with his thoughts as he hunted in the forest. During this time of introspection he reflected on the many things his father had taught and his good example. Pondering these things, Enos made a discovery.

“…and the words which I had often heard my father speak concerning eternal life, and the joy of the saints, sunk deep into my heart.

And my soul hungered;…” Enos 1:3-4

There are times that I too spend a little time reflecting on all the blessings of the gospel and come away feeling that I’m not where I should be. Sometimes my soul hungers.

A hungering soul is crying out for peace and assurance, it is seeking the nourishment of truth and life. It is recognizing the absence of Christ in your life. How did the distance get there? Christ stands firm as our eternal brother and friend. Why did you move? Sometimes its very little things that cause us to stumble on the Lord’s path, occasionally we completely lose our way.

How grateful I am to know that Christ will always help me find my way again and welcome me home.

For none of these iniquities come of the Lord; for he doeth that which is good among the children of men; and he doeth nothing save it be plain unto the children of men; and he inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile. 2 Nephi 26:33

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Yea, verily I say unto you, if ye will come unto me ye shall have eternal life. Behold, mine arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me. 3 Nephi 9:14

When I get there, and sit at His feet once again, my soul will be filled.

Jesus Christ has prepared a feast for each us. A feast of His word.

Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ. Wherefore, I said unto you, feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do. 2 Nephi 32:3

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Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life. 2 Nephi 31:20

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Wherefore, do not spend money for that which is of no worth, nor your labor for that which cannot satisfy. Hearken diligently unto me, and remember the words which I have spoken; and come unto the Holy One of Israel, and feast upon that which perisheth not, neither can be corrupted, and let your soul delight in fatness.

Behold, my beloved brethren, remember the words of your God; pray unto him continually by day, and give thanks unto his holy name by night. Let your hearts rejoice. 2 Nephi 9:51

Christ instructs us to look to Him, for He is the Bread and Waters of Life. His love, His Gospel, are the things that fill our hearts and spirits. When we invite Christ into our lives and emulate His teachings in all our actions we are spiritual fed with nourishment that is vital to our earthly and eternal happiness.

When He offered Himself as the Bread of Life to those who gathered around Him in Galilee, many turned away. They were looking for something more tangible, more material, more worldly. It happens to all of us, the world gets in the way and we forget to look past our material needs and wants to those that can sustain us forever. We forget that the Lord has promised us His blessings if we seek Him first.

I try every day to be more like the woman at the well. When she was offered living waters, she immediately asked to drink and was filled.

I try to remember to ask every day to drink of His spirit and love; then, I seek it out as I try to live as His disciple during the daily grind of life. I try to immerse myself in the scriptures for at least a few minutes every day. I eat of the bread and waters of life each Sunday as I take the Sacrament and renew the covenants I have made with Christ to remember Him and carry His name. When I try, I am fed with His love.

May we each follow the example of Enos and drop to our knees and raise our voices to heaven so that our souls will be filled and our hearts will rejoice.

One of the greatest challenges many of us face today is a matter of time. We never seem to have enough of it. Often, if we try to look at things rationally we'll feel that we should either have been able to accomplish more with a given hour, day or week or conversely feel that we packed in far too much.

What is it that our Heavenly Father expects of us regarding our time? Where would He have us place our energies from day to day?

If we look to Jesus Christ's example we see that He was a very busy man with very little time to Himself. He gave His time to those around Him and served them in patience even when it was not convenient. He went about doing good and found more good along the way. I think the message, then, is that no matter how we fill our days it should result in good. Good for ourselves, our family, our friends and community. Still, the choices are many and the demands of our society can stretch us very thin. It often becomes a matter of priority. There are many good things, but not all of them may be right for us at the time of our lives we find ourselves in. This is the message He taught to Mary and Martha: that many things were good, but some things are needful. We must look to Him to find which parts are most needful for us, personally.

For me, I have looked a little closer at how the Savior spent His time here on earth. Yes, He was always busy. Yes, He was always doing good and fulfilling His father's will for Him. Still, there were more important things that He would let interrupt Him. There were things that, no matter what else might be at hand, Christ made time for. These were His highest priorities.

He was never too busy to pray.
He was never too busy to spend time with a child.
He was never too busy to notice the needs of one among the crowd.
He was never too busy, though He knew the end would be joyful, to cry with His friends in their sorrow.
He was never too busy for forgiveness.
He was never too busy to serve.

I think for me it is the same. There are simple little things that if I commit to never be too busy for, will make the greatest impact on my happiness and salvation. As always, I follow the Savior's example.

May I never find myself:
Too busy to pray
Too busy to hug my children
Too busy to read the scriptures
Too busy for the Sabbath
Too busy to see another's need

If I am, I have let too much of the world, and Satan's distractions, into my life. If I’m finding myself too busy, it is time to re-humble myself to the Lord's will for me. I ask Him what needs to fall away so that I am never too busy to be His disciple. When I do that, I find He is never too busy for me.

Many of us feel a sense of comfort about who we are when we’re within the walls of our own home. Hopefully, we feel a similar level of comfort within our religious congregations. But, what about the workplace?

Discipleship is a full-time, life-time commitment. So what does it really mean to be a disciple within the workplace, just as we would be among our close friends or family? How does a disciple view work and how do those that he works with view him as a representative of Christ?

All things are spiritual in God’s eyes; therefore, we should not have a division of our own between things spiritual and secular. He has asked us to leave the world behind and follow Him. Does that mean we should not work? No, work is part of our growth here upon this earth. However, we should strive for a work environment that is comparable to our standards as disciples of Christ. If at all possible, our path should never lead us away from our spiritual self. In that same token, we should never bring anything with us to a situation that might lead another away from God. We need to be proud to exemplify our belief at any time or place.

WWJD (What Would Jesus Do) does not lose its power because we are not the child or teenager we usually associate this message with. There are many problems, both personal and within our workplace that can be solved by refocusing on the values the Gospel of Jesus Christ has instilled in us. He is to be our example in all things, not a few.

Look for the Savior in your every day lives, in every day things. Just as the Savior taught in parables to help His followers understand His messages, we can find His love, word and example in the simplest things in our own lives. Keeping His perspective helps us avoid the world’s perspective on such things as money, goods and power that seem to be so often central to the workplace.

Start your day with scripture study and prayer. Nephi has counseled us wisely in the Book of Mormon to “feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.” (2 Nephi 32:3) I have found in my own life that when I neglect these two simple steps my day is lacking. No matter how good the activities of the day went, I have missed the presence of the Spirit. If things have gone badly, I have lacked the ability to find peace and the Lord’s will for the situation until I have returned to His basic commandments. Exercise your spirit every morning just as you would exercise your body. Do not leave for work without the power of the Holy Ghost to guide and protect you.

Be honest. Never display yourself as anything less than honest and trustworthy in the workplace. This also includes refraining from gossip or speaking ill of anyone that you work with.

Remember, often times he who is greatest, is the servant. A “what’s in it for me” attitude is not always the best course of action. Rather: “what creates the most good?” Once again, the Savior’s example is clear.

“If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.
If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” John 13:14-17

Have courage in your convictions. It is also important to remember that Christ was always appropriate to the situation and occasionally that situation called for Him to defend Himself or reprove those around Him. While it is important not to do nothing that is intended to be mean spirited it is equally important to stand up for your beliefs and help others understand their importance to you.

Pay your tithes. In Malachi we are advised to "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it." (Malachi 3:10) Returning a portion of our goods to the Lord helps keep a perspective based on the Lord’s blessings. It acknowledges His hand in our lives and our dedication to Him in everything that we do. It allows Him to be part of our financial decisions and planning.

The Lord is mindful of us in everything we do. A disciple’s goal is to focus our lives on Him in return whether it is at home, at church, at work, or anywhere else we may find ourselves.

1. The Living Christ- I’m grateful for the knowledge that I have that Jesus Christ is a resurrected, glorified person who knows me personally. He is my friend, my supporter, my advocate, my Savior. He lived. He shared His love with the world and suffered for all our sins and earthly sorrows so that He could understand us, comfort us and offer us a path to overcome the world and return to live with Him and Heavenly Father once again. He still lives, and guides His church today.

2. The Plan of Salvation- There is a Primary song that says:

“My life is a gift; my life has a plan.
My life has a purpose in Heaven it began.
My choice was to come to this lovely home on earth
And seek for God’s light to direct me from birth.
I will follow God’s plan for me,
Holding fast to his word and his love.
I will work, and I will pray; I will always walk in his way.
The I will be happy on earth And in my home above.”
“I Will Follow God’s Plan,” Children’s Songbook, 164

I’m grateful to know the measure and purpose of my life. I feel comfort in knowing that God knew me personally, that He was my Father before I even came to this earth. I know that I came to receive an earthly body and to test my faith away from my heavenly home. I know that if I do the best I can in this life; working and praying to always find myself in God’s light, I’ll be able to return and live with Him again when my earthly life is over.

3. Temples- It is a blessing and a privilege to hold myself worthy to enter the house of the Lord. As Moses was instructed to take off his shoes before walking on holy ground where the Lord tread upon this earth, I consider it a blessing to shake off sin that would keep me from the Lord’s presence. The temple is literally His house: holy ground where His spirit can be closest to His children. I walk inside, leave the world behind and find His love and peace waiting for me there.

4. Families are Forever- I love my family. I love every minute I spend with them. Well, almost. I love the fact that we were placed together in a family unit by choice and heavenly design. I love that we can learn and grow together, love and support each other. Most of all, I love that they will always be my family.

5. Prophets- I love the wonderful spirit that surrounds the modern day Prophet and Apostles. I’m grateful to know that they are diligently trying to lead me back to my Heavenly Father. I’m even more grateful to know that they in turn are led by Heavenly Father.

6. The Word of Wisdom- To many, it may seem extreme or binding to have a health code as part of a religion. To me, however, it makes perfect sense. Why wouldn’t the creator of our bodies give us guidelines for how best to keep them healthy and properly respected? I find comfort in knowing that no matter how the trends of the world may sway as to what is healthy and what is not, I am not relying in the arm of the flesh for my answers. Rather, I am placing my faith in my creator. I have also found that abiding by these simple guidelines for health I am mentally and spiritually more open to the will of the Lord and His love for me in every aspect of my life.

7. Programs- I’m grateful for the programs of the church. They are specifically designed to meet my needs as a daughter of God and to meet the needs of the other members of my family. I love Primary, where my children learn how precious they are to Heavenly Father and how to “Choose the Right”. I love the youth programs that focus on values and how to set goals that will lead our teenagers into great men and women. I love Relief Society that encourages me to be who I am and helps me serve and love those I come in contact with.

8. Truth- I’m grateful for my testimony. That I feel comfortable, welcome and whole within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It does not leave holes of doubt and unanswered questions. Its gospel speaks truth to my soul and fills me with light. It is where I belong and where Christ has asked me to be.

9. Repentance- I am grateful for the atonement. For the chance that I have to try a little harder each day to be a little better. I’m grateful for Christ’s love that wipes the slate clean when I humbly come to Him with my mistakes. I’m grateful for the loving promptings of the Holy Ghost that keep me mindful of my promise to serve Christ as His disciple every day of my life.

10. Peace- When you combine the many blessings I experience from living the Gospel of Jesus Christ as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I have a foundation that gives me peace in my every day life. It gives me perspective and comfort in times of trial. It gives me joy.

There is a scripture in John 17 that tells us what we need to do to gain eternal life. Because Christ overcame the grave we will all have the blessing of the resurrection. However, there is more required in order to receive all of the blessings that our Heavenly Father has for each of us if we return to Him true and faithful. In this scripture it tells us what we need to do to earn this greater amount of glory.

And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (John 17:3)

To dwell in His presence forever, we need to come to know God, and Jesus Christ, now. In this life.

This raises the very natural questions: who is God, and how do we know Him?

To me, this is one of the greatest blessings of my membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have clear and distinct answers that feel true to the nature of my soul where others may falter with a less sure knowledge or no answers at all.

I have learned that God is my Heavenly Father. He is the father of my spirit.
He knows me personally and loves me in spite of me.
He is a resurrected and perfected being. He has a glorified version of our earthy bodies.
We were created in His image.
He understands us.
He will answer our sincere prayers.
He has power over evil.
He wants what is best for us.
He wants us to be like Him.

These things speak a great peace to my soul. I know that they are true. Still, knowing God is a process. Just as you gradually get to know a friend, your relationship with God grows and changes as you do. Hopefully, these changes bring you closer to Him and closer to His will for you.

One of the best ways we have to get to know God is by reading His words. When we immerse ourselves in His language and messages recorded by the prophets for our learning and benefit, we immerse ourselves in His desires for us.

When we turn to Him in fervent, personal prayer our hearts our opened to His love for us.

When we follow the example of His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ, we are guiding our footsteps on paths that will lead back to His presence. We express our trust in His power and faith in His way of life.

Simple steps, but more powerful than many we could take: study, pray, follow.

Know God.

Many people are aware that Latter-day Saints attend church for a three-hour block every Sunday. Opinions outside of the faith vary on the length of time we spend in worship. For that matter, opinions inside the church can vary from Sunday to Sunday as well.

If you come expecting to be bored or wishing you were somewhere else, that’s pretty much all that will happen while you’re there. On the other hand, if you come for the reasons that the Lord has asked His saints to gather, the experience you come away with is very different.

The Sabbath, and all its meetings, is designed for the saints. All disciples of Christ have been asked to come together often. They need the support that those gatherings can offer. When our daily lives are so full of the worries of the world, three hours on the Lord’s day doesn’t seem long enough to revitalize and prepare for the battle.

I was thinking about this as I sat in my meetings yesterday. I began to think how nice it was to know that here, in these meetings were men and women who believed as I did, who were honestly trying their best to serve the Savior, to become more like Him. Here was a support and uplifting system that I needed more than I needed that few extra hours of sleep or time on the lake or slopes. I felt supported and loved by those around me and by my Heavenly Father for my efforts in obedience. Everyone, no matter what religion you affiliate with, needs this time of comfort and renewal.

Even if it’s a message you feel you’ve heard a million times before, coming with an open heart and mind invites the Spirit to be with you, to testify of this truth to you, to strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ, and perhaps nudge you to be a better disciple than you were before. The scriptures are clear. The Lord has asked us to gather.

“And none were received unto baptism save they took upon them the name of Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end.
And after they had been received unto baptism, and were wrought upon and cleansed by the power of the Holy Ghost, they were numbered among the people of the church of Christ; and their names were taken, that they might be remembered and nourished by the good word of God, to keep them in the right way, to keep them continually watchful unto prayer, relying alone upon the merits of Christ, who was the author and the finisher of their faith.
And the church did meet together oft, to fast and to pray, and to speak one with another concerning the welfare of their souls.
And they did meet together oft to partake of bread and wine, in remembrance of the Lord Jesus.”
Moroni 6:3-6

“And there was one day in every week that was set apart that they should gather themselves together to teach the people, and to worship the Lord their God, and also, as often as it was in their power, to assemble themselves together.”
Mosiah 18:25

“…but they did walk after the commandments which they had received from their Lord and their God, continuing in fasting and prayer, and in meeting together oft both to pray and to hear the word of the Lord.”
4 Nephi 1:12

In three hours the Latter-day saints accomplish all of these aspects of worship.

In our sacrament meetings we partake of the sacred symbols of the bread and water. We renew our commitment to carry Christ’s name in all that we do. We ask forgiveness for the times we have faltered in our convictions.

On Fast Sunday we are each given the opportunity to speak of our love for the Savior and the gospel. Hearing from each other strengthens our own convictions as well as confirms to the person speaking that their best efforts are accepted of the Lord.

In Sunday School we study the scriptures, seeking out the Lord’s messages and finding ways to incorporate them into our lives.

In our divided meetings specifically for the men and women we learn how to take the messages of the gospel back into our homes and communities and strengthen our relationships.

Our children begin planting the seeds of their own testimonies in Primary and youth meetings.

Depending on what we brought to the meetings- boredom or an open heart, we can leave inspired and uplifted. More importantly, we have learned from each other that even among the struggles of life, there are many others like us, all disciples of Jesus Christ doing our best every day to serve Him.

A gathering of Saints for three hours a week is a commandment and a great blessing.

Have you heard the story of the First Vision? How did it affect you?

It's amazing the power that the story of the First Vision can have. When you first hear it your heart either rejoices or your mind clouds over and can't see the possibility of its truth.

For me, I didn't recognize its power until I shared the story for the first time with a non-member friend. I remember the doubting look on her face while she tolerated my story; but, what I remember more is how the words made my entire body burn with peace and happiness. My mind and soul seemed to wake up in awe of the wonder of such an experience. My friend never joined the church, but I was certainly converted that day.

I think that experience also speaks of the power of our words. We can think through many things. We can reach a decision or worry through a problem but when we open our mouths and say what we are feeling or thinking out loud there is power in it.

For Joseph Smith, the time he spent in the grove was the first time he had prayed out loud at it had the power to alert Satan and prepare him to see Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

When my testimony needs to be strengthened I need to hear my own voice declaring my beliefs. Giving voice to the things of my heart invites the presence of the Spirit. It lends strength to both the speaker and the listener. True, sometimes it’s scary or uncomfortable to testify of Jesus Christ. Satan doesn’t want that pathway of truth opened up, just as he didn’t want it opened for Joseph Smith.

When I desperately need a blessing I need to pray to my Heavenly Father out loud as if he were in the same room. When you only open your thoughts and feelings to the Lord in the quiet of your mind it becomes easier to forget that He is a real, loving Heavenly Father. It also becomes more difficult to separate His words to us, from the tumultuous thoughts of our own mind.

There is power in the spoken words of the gospel. Using these two tools, testifying and vocal prayer, are the times peace and restoration come the quickest and have the most lasting effect. May it bring the Spirit into your own life as well.

Some time ago I read a book about dealing with personal trials. The most important message I learned was that sometimes it’s not about the trial itself; but rather, our perceptions during that trail.

The classic story of David and Goliath was used as an example of this point.

We are told that Goliath was a giant and a champion by the world’s standards. The army of Israel could not find a champion who felt he was even somewhat equal to the mighty Goliath. No one would meet his challenge, until David. David was a youngest child, a shepherd, untrained in battle; but, when he came to the army’s camp he did not hesitate to volunteer himself for the battle with Goliath that would decide the fate of not only his own life, but that of his people.

Why was David so willing to stand up to Goliath? The simple answer would be faith, but that doesn’t really tell us what we need to know. The difference is subtle but clear in the scriptures.

The description of Goliath is lengthy, giving a very clear image of a well armored and very intimidating individual. The first mention of David is very brief. “And David was the youngest:” (1 Samuel 17:14)

When David asks why no one will fight Goliath the response is essentially: are you kidding?

“And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him, and were sore afraid.
And the men of Israel said, Have ye seen this man that is come up?” (1 Samuel 17:24-25)
“And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying,… who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God.” (1 Samuel 17:26)

The answer to David’s faith is in his perspective. While the others were busy describing and standing in awe of this giant challenge in front of them, David was focused on what Goliath was missing. God.

That’s essentially what we each need to learn as our own Goliath’s call us out to battle. If we spend all of our time focused on the problem, we may forget to see the most important part- Faith in God. Many times keeping our focus on God is the only way we will defeat our own giants.

During times of trial the why is not as important as the how.

Questioning why something happened to us keeps our focus centered on ourselves: it’s self-defeating. We are spending all of our time complaining about the quality of the other guy’s armor and why we shouldn’t have to face him in battle.

Asking how you can best conquer the trial, and what you can learn from it, takes the focus off of us and puts it back on God.

“David said moreover, The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine….
Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts,… for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands.” (1 Samuel 17:37, 45, 47)

The “how” empowers us to God’s will and path for us.

When the Savior began preparing His disciples to understand the divinity of His mission, He gave them a promise.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27

What is the Lord’s peace? How does He give it to us, and more importantly how do we receive it so that it becomes a part of us? How can we find that peace when the world is storming around us, threatening every fiber of our being?

The blessing of the Lord’s peace is that it can be present even at the worst of times if we continue to put our faith in Jesus Christ. His peace is the gift of the Holy Ghost. It is this gift that He refers to in the verse before His promise of peace in John 14:27.

“But the comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:26

The Holy Ghost is called by many names in the scriptures. To me, Comforter says it all. Comfort and peace are at the center of the very nature of the Holy Ghost. No matter what role He is filling it brings peace to the recipient. For instance, knowledge and learning based in the teaching of Jesus Christ is a source of peace. It is the role and mission of the Holy Ghost to lead us toward Christ and to testify of the Savior’s divinity to those who seek Him.

I often think of the hymn, “Master, the Tempest is Raging”. when my life seems to be spiraling out of control.

1. Master, the tempest is raging!
The billows are tossing high!
The sky is o’ershadowed with blackness.
No shelter or help is nigh.
Carest thou not that we perish?
How canst thou lie asleep
When each moment so madly is threat’ning
A grave in the angry deep?

[Chorus]
The winds and the waves shall obey thy will:
Peace, be still.
Whether the wrath of the storm-tossed sea
Or demons or men or whatever it be,
No waters can swallow the ship where lies
The Master of ocean and earth and skies.
They all shall sweetly obey thy will:
Peace, be still; peace, be still.
They all shall sweetly obey thy will:
Peace, peace, be still.

2. Master, with anguish of spirit
I bow in my grief today.
The depths of my sad heart are troubled.
Oh, waken and save, I pray!
Torrents of sin and of anguish
Sweep o’er my sinking soul,
And I perish! I perish! dear Master.
Oh, hasten and take control!

3. Master, the terror is over.
The elements sweetly rest.
Earth’s sun in the calm lake is mirrored,
And heaven’s within my breast.
Linger, O blessed Redeemer!
Leave me alone no more,
And with joy I shall make the blest harbor
And rest on the blissful shore.

This hymn tells the story found in Matthew 8:23-27

“And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.
And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep.
And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.
And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.
But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!”

There is another hymn with a simple melody that also finds itself stuck in my brain quite frequently. Whenever I catch myself humming it, I open my mind to the words and remember the gentle comforts of Christ’s gospel. It will always bring peace.

1. How gentle God’s commands!
How kind his precepts are!
Come, cast your burdens on the Lord
And trust his constant care.

2. Beneath his watchful eye,
His Saints securely dwell;
That hand which bears all nature up
Shall guard his children well.

3. Why should this anxious load
Press down your weary mind?
Haste to your Heav’nly Father’s throne
And sweet refreshment find.

4. His goodness stands approved,
Unchanged from day to day;
I’ll drop my burden at his feet
And bear a song away.

“How Gentle God’s Commands,” Hymns #125

Christ gives each of us with the same promise He gave to the disciples who walked and talked with Him. He will not leave us comfortless; He offers each of us His peace if we invite the Spirit to be with us. As we mold our lives to the example of Jesus Christ we encourage the Holy Ghost to be our companion, to teach us, to guide us, and to calm the wind and the waves as we need Him to by placing our trust.

This is Jesus Christ’s promise of peace:
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you:”
“Even the winds and the sea obey [me]”
“That hand which bears all nature up, shall guard his children well.”
“Peace, be still. Peace, be still.”

Paul ends his instruction on charity with this powerful statement. In fact, some have found it so powerful that it is often quoted. The women's organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Mormons, chose it as their motto at its formation in 1842. What makes this statement so powerful? Like many scriptures, I think it can be understood and applied on several different levels. As we have discovered, charity itself holds some great promises. Is it any wonder that Paul's final statement on the nature of charity would be to promise us that taking heed of charity in our own lives, developing aspects of its nature, can hold great blessings for each of us?

“Never faileth” denotes an eternal nature, a resistance to the trials and the extremes of passing time. It identifies an anchor of surety in a world that is drowning in chaos most of the time.

What are the things that we can count on? Paul shared them with us in the verses we have been discussing:

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.”
1 Corinthians 13:1-8

This message is again reiterated in The Book of Mormon by the prophet Mormon.

“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail—

But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.”
Moroni 7:46-47

Focusing our energies toward Jesus Christ, committing ourselves every day to be the best disciple we are capable of, gives us a certain power. It allows our eyes and hearts to focus on things of an eternal nature even when the world would have us focus on pain, suffering and despair. I think this is part of the great blessings of charity. The Lord is promising us three things:

First, that charity can always be found on the earth until He comes again. No matter how bad things get, there will always be those who still believe and still strive for Christ-like love. There will always be pockets of sunshine and silver-linings in a world that appears otherwise dismal and hopeless.

Second, that the Lord desires us to be part of those disciples who are searching for and participating in the good things of life that lead us back into His presence. He tells us that no matter the trials and adversity we face personally if we will stay focused on Him, and serving others in His love, we can not fail at our mission in life.

In the words of Marvin J. Ashton: “Real charity is not something you give away; it is something that you acquire and make a part of yourself. And when the virtue of charity becomes implanted in your heart, you are never the same again. . . Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don't judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone's differences, weaknesses, and shortcomings; having patience with someone who has let us down; or resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn't handle something the way we might have hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of another's weakness and being willing to forgive someone who has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other.” (“The Tongue Can Be a Sharp Sword,” Ensign, May 1992, 19)

Lastly, I think it is a personal promise to each of us that His charity, His tender mercies, will always be extended to those who seek Him. No matter the amount of times we stumble and fall, when we reach up He’ll be there. His charity never faileth.

“Listen to the voice of Jesus Christ, your Redeemer, the Great I Am, whose arm of mercy hath atoned for your sins;

Who will gather his people even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, even as many as will hearken to my voice and humble themselves before me, and call upon me in mighty prayer.

Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, that at this time your sins are forgiven you, therefore ye receive these things; but remember to sin no more, lest perils shall come upon you.

Verily, I say unto you that ye are chosen out of the world to declare my gospel with the sound of rejoicing, as with the voice of a trump.
Lift up your hearts and be glad, for I am in your midst, and am your advocate with the Father; and it is his good will to give you the kingdom.”
Doctrine and Covenants 29:1-5

We are coming to the end of Paul’s message on charity. We’ve pondered his direction and tried to find ways to develop more charity within our lives. Now comes what is probably the most important message Paul could leave us with. Charity: “Believes all things, hopes all things”. Charity is the pure love of Christ. Of course, the largest element of developing this type of love in ourselves would center on our ability to have faith and hope in Jesus Christ.

Faith is a belief, a hope in things that aren’t completely known or understood. It’s trusting our hearts and instincts more than the logic of the world. It often starts as something small, a small prickling on the back of your neck when you hear someone mention their belief in God. Perhaps it’s a lingering warmth or happiness after an inspiring piece of music. Maybe it’s just a gentle nudging inside of you that wants to do good, to be better, to reach for something higher. When its faith, it always leads you back to Jesus Christ.

Not everyone has the same measure of faith, just as not everyone is the same height or intelligence. It’s another piece of our unique natures. For some this faith is only in small things: a belief that living a good life will be rewarded with more good living. In others their faith is enough to move mountains. But in every case it’s a yearning for what is good and wholesome in the world around us and a recognition that such things come from the hand of God.

Hope is the part of our nature that looks toward the future. It is the desire for peace and blessings that we long for as we try to do what is right. It’s believing not only in Christ, but in what He can do for us: His saving grace, that allows us to come back in to the presence of a loving Heavenly Father. It’s the hope of forgiveness when we realize we’ve strayed off the path we should have kept to.

Charity is the ability to take these precious parts of ourselves and share them with those around us. It is seeing and accepting the faith of others, wherever that faith may lead them. It is hoping the best for someone who has wronged us, just as we hope to be forgiven when we wrong God. It is reaching out to one who may not have given heed to the initial sparks of faith within themselves. It is loving as the Savior would love, because of His love for us.

In the spring of 1838 Joseph Smith received a revelation that is now recorded in the Doctrine and Covenants section 115. It contained specific instructions regarding the Savior’s newly reorganized church. Included in these instructions was the official name of the church.

“For thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” D&C 115:4

Some consider this to be a mouth full. It’s no wonder that many use abbreviated versions when asked what church we attend. “Mormon” is a widely known, but generally inaccurate, term. “LDS” (an abbreviation for Latter-day Saint) is another. Just as another would say “I’m Lutheran” or “I’m Baptist” when asked about their religious beliefs, many of us would first reply “I’m LDS” rather than using the full name of the church we belong to, because our audience generally expects a quick and concise answer. The full title can sometimes feel as if you’re delivering a small speech instead of an identifying factor. As convenient as these abbreviations can be, they are unable to tell a full story unless the person we are speaking to has a good frame of reference.

The name given to this church is very specific and clear and carries a wealth of information. Many, hearing the term “Mormon” assume that means non-Christian. Many hearing the term “LDS” might assume we fumbled our identification of a commonly known street drug rather than our heart felt belief in the Savior. On the other hand, when the full name of the church is identified, there can be no doubt in either party’s mind exactly whom we worship and revere, nor is there a question of our role in that church.

What exactly does it mean to be called a “Latter-day Saint”?

The term “saint” does not refer to one who has achieved an epitome of holiness, or someone who should be worshiped for their goodness. Rather, it is synonymous with the term disciple. A saint is one who believes in, and has expressed a commitment to follow, Jesus Christ. A saint is one who has been:

“called unto the fellowship of … Jesus Christ our Lord” 1 Cor. 1:9
“to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people.” Mosiah 18:8

We are seeking after the way of life that He has shown us is possible. We are striving for goodness, but we are far from perfect.

The term “Latter-day” refers to the time in which we live. As many believe, the world is in its final stages of its mission as a place of trial and experience for God’s children. The final scenes are unfolding that will lead to the second coming. Latter-day expresses our presence in the last days, in the Lord’s reckoning, before that glorious second coming.

When we call ourselves “LDS”, we are really saying we’ve made a commitment to Jesus Christ to stand up for His name, to act in His name, until He comes again. That’s a powerful statement that many miss when we announce our faith in this way. We carry a strong testimony and love for Jesus Christ. We’re trying a little harder every day to give our heart, might, mind and strength every day of our lives. We love, serve, sacrifice, and seek for beauty and purity in the world around us. We come from many countries and many backgrounds. We all have individual weaknesses and challenges, but we are trying because above all else, we love our Savior Jesus Christ.

We are his disciples.

We are Latter-day Saints.

In the last few phrases of Paul’s insight on charity, he seems to give a summary of the points he has covered, subtly combining them into a bigger picture. These are the last pieces of advice he gives on the journey of developing charity. He tells us to take things to the next level.

Thus, the scriptures say charity: “beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, [and] endureth all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:7

For today’s thought I’ll address “beareth all things” and “endureth all things”.

Every one of us faces trials and challenges every day. Some may be very minor, some may feel as if they are draining the life force right out of us, leaving little time or energy for anything other than the problem at hand. In every case, the love of our Heavenly Father follows us. He has given us a precious gift of agency- the ability to choose our own path. He lets us walk that path and encounter what ever we may. In some cases, He might have preferred us to choose differently. In some cases, He may have tried to share this knowledge with us. In every case, His love is unwavering, and that love restrains Him as He lets us learn in our own way and time frame.

What is He really asking of us when the scriptures say we must bear and endure all things?

I think of the Savior, His faithful and quiet willingness to go forward with the Father’s will even when He knew the pain it would bring Him personally.

I think of Job who refused to turn away from God when all of His friends thought he had been forsaken.

I think of Joseph Smith willingly returning when he knew it would mean his capture and death, because he knew that was what the Lord needed him to do.

I think of a woman I know who is battling another round of cancer a year after losing her husband of 49 years. I think of her smile and grateful heart for every new day.

I think of a father I know who patiently takes extra time with the child who needs him most.

I think of a million examples of everyday people doing their best to live good lives. To me, that is the essence of charity. It’s going outside of ourselves and facing every new challenge as the Savior would. It’s bearing and enduring all the things this world can throw at us until we are back in Heavenly Father’s presence.

It’s patience and perspective.

“As much as ye shall put your trust in God even so much ye shall be delivered out of your trials, and your troubles, and your afflictions, and ye shall be lifted up at the last day.” Alma 38:5

The New Year always begins as a time of reflection and resolution. For me, at least, it can be a little frustrating. I want to make positive changes, to place my feet further down the path to becoming more Christ-like. Yet, there is someone else who doesn’t want me to find my way. Satan knows me very well; he tries to use my times of reflection to nudge me into feeling bad about my many inadequacies. He wants me to think that no matter how hard I try, it will never be good enough. He wants me to think that I should not try because it would only lead to another failure to feel bad about. He’s pretty clever. Fortunately, I trust my Heavenly Father more than I trust Satan’s power to influence my thoughts and feelings. I trust the power of the atonement to make up for my weaknesses as I honestly press forward and do the best I can.

This year many thoughts have danced through my brain: things I’d like to try, things I’d like to do better. Some of these things have very selfish motive behind them. If I want to place my trust in Heavenly Father, His Son- Jesus Christ and, His atoning sacrifice for me, I need to look for different motives. I need to look for those things that the Spirit is gently prodding me about, not the glaring faults the world would have me worry about. I will look to my Savior for the best way to be me- to show goodness and mercy as He would. I am His disciple, not Satan’s.

I am reminded of President Howard W. Hunter’s first address after his call to serve as the president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was a soft spoken man, frail in body but with a gentle warming spirit that touched the members deeply.

President Hunter said: “I pledge my life, my strength, and the full measure of my soul to serving Him fully. …

To the membership of the Church in every country of the world and to people everywhere … I pray that we might treat each other with more kindness, more courtesy, more humility and patience and forgiveness. …” (“The Way of an Eagle” By Elder James E. Faust, Ensign 1994, August.)

I can’t think of a better resolution.