We are sowing, daily sowing Countless seeds are good and ill.
Scattered o the level lowland, Cast upon the windy hill;
Seeds that sink in rich, brown furrows, Soft with heaven's gracious rain;
Seeds that rest upon the surface Of the dry, unyielding plain.
Seeds that fall amid the stillness Of the lonely mountain glen;
Seeds cast out in crowded places, Trodden under foot of men;
Seeds by idle hearts forgotten, Flung at random on the air;
Seeds by faithful souls remembered, Sown in tears and love and prayer;
Seeds that lie unchanged, unquickened, Lifeless on the teeming mold;
Seeds that live and grow and flourish When the sower's hand is cold.
By a whisper sow we blessings; By a breath we scatter strife.
In our words and thoughts and actions Lie the seeds of death and life.
Thou who knowest all our weakness, Leave us not to sow alone!
Bid thine angels guard the furrows Where the precious grain is sown,
Till the filds are crown'd with glory, Filled with mellow, ripened ears,
Filled with fruit of life eternal From the seed we sowed in tears.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Better Than I Used To Be
I love the amazing honesty of this song by Tim McGraw.
Better Than I Used to Be
I know how to hold a grudge
I can send a bridge up in smoke
And I can't count the people I've let down
The hearts I've broke
You ain't gotta dig too deep
If you wanna find some dirt on me
But I'm learning who you've been
Ain't who you've got to be
It's gonna be an uphill climb
Aww honey I won't lie
I ain't no angel
I still go a few more dances with the devil
I'm cleanin up my act little by little
I'm getting there
I can finally stand the man in the mirro I see
I ain't as good as I'm gonna get
But I'm better than I used to be.
I've pinned a lot of demons to the ground
God few old habits left
But there's still one or two I might need you to help me get
Standing in the rain so long has left me with a little rust
But put some faith in me and someday you'll see
There's a diamond under all this dust
I ain't no angel
I still got a few more dances with the devil
I'm cleanin up my act little by little
I'm getting there
I can finally stand the man in the mirror I see
I ain't as good as I'm gonna get
But I'm better than I used to be.
I ain't no angel
I still got a few more dances with the devil
I'm cleanin up my act little by little
I'm getting there
I can finally stand the man in the mirror I see
I ain't as good as I'm gonna get
But I'm better than I used to be.
Better Than I Used to Be
I know how to hold a grudge
I can send a bridge up in smoke
And I can't count the people I've let down
The hearts I've broke
You ain't gotta dig too deep
If you wanna find some dirt on me
But I'm learning who you've been
Ain't who you've got to be
It's gonna be an uphill climb
Aww honey I won't lie
I ain't no angel
I still go a few more dances with the devil
I'm cleanin up my act little by little
I'm getting there
I can finally stand the man in the mirro I see
I ain't as good as I'm gonna get
But I'm better than I used to be.
I've pinned a lot of demons to the ground
God few old habits left
But there's still one or two I might need you to help me get
Standing in the rain so long has left me with a little rust
But put some faith in me and someday you'll see
There's a diamond under all this dust
I ain't no angel
I still got a few more dances with the devil
I'm cleanin up my act little by little
I'm getting there
I can finally stand the man in the mirror I see
I ain't as good as I'm gonna get
But I'm better than I used to be.
I ain't no angel
I still got a few more dances with the devil
I'm cleanin up my act little by little
I'm getting there
I can finally stand the man in the mirror I see
I ain't as good as I'm gonna get
But I'm better than I used to be.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Like a Flame Unquenchable
Excerpts from a talk that was given by M. Russell Ballard in the April 1999 General Conference :
Too many of our young men and women are succumbing to the pressures imposed by a world saturated with evil messages and immoral behavior. Lucifer is waging a vicious war for the souls of young and old alike, and the casualty count is climbing. The standards of the world have shifted like the sands of a windblown desert. That which was once unheard of or unacceptable is now commonplace. The world’s perspective has been so dramatically altered that those who choose to adhere to traditional standards of morality are viewed as strange, almost as though they must justify their desire to keep the commandments of God.
But one thing is certain: the commandments have not changed. Let there be no mistake about that. Right is still right. Wrong is still wrong, no matter how cleverly cloaked in respectability or political correctness. We believe in chastity before marriage and fidelity ever after. That standard is an absolute standard of truth. It is neither subject to public opinion polls nor dependent upon situation or circumstance. There is no need to debate it or other gospel standards.
But there is a desperate need for parents, leaders, and teachers to help our youth learn to understand, love, value, and live the standards of the gospel. Parents and youth must stand together in defense against a clever and devious adversary. We must be just as dedicated, effective, and determined in our efforts to live the gospel as he is in his efforts to destroy it—and us.
The challenge before us is great. At risk are the immortal souls of those we love. May I suggest four ways we can build a fortress of faith in our homes and particularly help prepare our youth to be clean and chaste and pure, completely worthy to enter the temple.
The first is gospel information. The most important, life-changing information that I know of is the knowledge that we are truly children of God our Eternal Father. This is not only doctrinally correct, it is spiritually vital. Said the Savior in His powerful intercessory prayer, “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 know Heavenly Father and to understand our relationship to Him as our Father and our God is to find meaning in this life and hope in the life to come. Our families need to know He is real, that we are in fact His sons and His daughters and heirs to all that He has, now and forever. Secure in that knowledge, family members will be less likely to look for devilish diversions and more likely to look to God and live (see Num. 21:8).
Sometimes we are tempted to let our lives be governed more by convenience than by covenant. It is not always convenient to live gospel standards and stand up for truth and testify of the Restoration. It usually is not convenient to share the gospel with others. It isn’t always convenient to respond to a calling in the Church, especially one that stretches our abilities. Opportunities to serve others in meaningful ways, as we have covenanted to do, rarely come at convenient times. But there is no spiritual power in living by convenience. The power comes as we keep our covenants. As we look at the lives of these early Saints, we see that their covenants were the primary force in their lives. Their example and testimony were powerful enough to influence generation after generation of their children.
As our children grow, they need information taught by parents more directly and plainly about what is and is not appropriate. Parents need to teach children to avoid any pornographic photographs or stories. Children and youth need to know from parents that pornography of any kind is a tool of the devil; and if anyone flirts with it, it has the power to addict, dull, and even destroy the human spirit. They need to be taught not to use vulgar language and never to use the Lord’s name in vain. Crude jokes overheard should never be repeated. Teach family members not to listen to music that celebrates the sensual. Talk to them plainly about sex and the teaching of the gospel regarding chastity. Let this information come from parents in the home in an appropriate way. All family members need to know the rules and be fortified spiritually so they can keep them. And when mistakes are made, the wondrous Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ must be understood and accepted so that through the complete and sometimes difficult process of repentance, forgiveness and continued hope for the future can be obtained. We must never give up our individual and family quest for eternal life.
Brothers and sisters, we need to instruct one another and instill deeper faith in our hearts to fortify ourselves with the courage to keep the commandments in a world of ever-increasing wickedness. We need to become so deeply converted to the gospel of Christ that the fire of the covenant will burn in our hearts like flame unquenchable. And with that kind of faith we will do what is necessary to remain true and worthy.
Second is communication. Nothing is more important to the relationship between family members than open, honest communication. This is particularly true for parents trying to teach gospel principles and standards to their children. The ability to counsel with our youth—and perhaps more importantly, to really listen to their concerns—is the foundation upon which successful relationships are built. Often what we see in the eyes and what we feel in the heart will communicate far more than what we hear or say.
There are powerful moments of communication through regular family prayer and through family scripture study. The scriptures will help define family values and goals, and talking together about them will assist family members to learn to become individually secure, spiritually strong, and self-reliant. This requires time, and so we need to counsel together about how much television, how many movies, videos, video games, time on the Internet, or out-of-the-home activities should be allowed.
Third is intervention. It is the parents’ duty to intervene when they see wrong choices being made. That doesn’t mean parents take from children the precious gift of agency. Because agency is a God-given gift, ultimately the choice of what they will do, how they will behave, and what they will believe will always be theirs. But as parents we need to make sure they understand appropriate behavior and the consequences to them if they pursue their wrongful course. Remember, there is no such thing as unlawful censorship in the home. Movies, magazines, television, videos, the Internet, and other media are there as guests and should only be welcomed when they are appropriate for family enjoyment. Make your home a haven of peace and righteousness. Don’t allow evil influences to contaminate your own special spiritual environment. Be kind, thoughtful, gentle, and considerate in what you say and how you treat each other. Then family goals based on gospel standards will make it easier to make good decisions.
Fourth is example. Just as it is difficult for a weary sailor to find his way across uncharted seas without the aid of a compass, it is almost impossible for children and youth to find their way through the seas of life without the guiding light of a good example. We cannot expect them to avoid those things that are inappropriate if they see their parents compromising principles and failing to live the gospel.
As parents, teachers, and leaders, it is our solemn duty to set a powerful, personal example of righteous strength, courage, sacrifice, unselfish service, and self-control. These are the traits that will help our youth hold on to the iron rod of the gospel and remain on the straight and narrow path.
I wish I could tell you that focusing on information, communication, intervention, and example would always result in a perfect family with perfect children who never stray from gospel standards. That is, unfortunately, not the case. But families that know, teach, and live gospel principles and standards are more likely to spare themselves the pain of serious mistakes. When long-established patterns of positive communication and faithful example prevail, it is much easier to counsel together about personal problems and to work through the necessary changes that will bless every family member.
Too many of our young men and women are succumbing to the pressures imposed by a world saturated with evil messages and immoral behavior. Lucifer is waging a vicious war for the souls of young and old alike, and the casualty count is climbing. The standards of the world have shifted like the sands of a windblown desert. That which was once unheard of or unacceptable is now commonplace. The world’s perspective has been so dramatically altered that those who choose to adhere to traditional standards of morality are viewed as strange, almost as though they must justify their desire to keep the commandments of God.
But one thing is certain: the commandments have not changed. Let there be no mistake about that. Right is still right. Wrong is still wrong, no matter how cleverly cloaked in respectability or political correctness. We believe in chastity before marriage and fidelity ever after. That standard is an absolute standard of truth. It is neither subject to public opinion polls nor dependent upon situation or circumstance. There is no need to debate it or other gospel standards.
But there is a desperate need for parents, leaders, and teachers to help our youth learn to understand, love, value, and live the standards of the gospel. Parents and youth must stand together in defense against a clever and devious adversary. We must be just as dedicated, effective, and determined in our efforts to live the gospel as he is in his efforts to destroy it—and us.
The challenge before us is great. At risk are the immortal souls of those we love. May I suggest four ways we can build a fortress of faith in our homes and particularly help prepare our youth to be clean and chaste and pure, completely worthy to enter the temple.
The first is gospel information. The most important, life-changing information that I know of is the knowledge that we are truly children of God our Eternal Father. This is not only doctrinally correct, it is spiritually vital. Said the Savior in His powerful intercessory prayer, “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 know Heavenly Father and to understand our relationship to Him as our Father and our God is to find meaning in this life and hope in the life to come. Our families need to know He is real, that we are in fact His sons and His daughters and heirs to all that He has, now and forever. Secure in that knowledge, family members will be less likely to look for devilish diversions and more likely to look to God and live (see Num. 21:8).
Sometimes we are tempted to let our lives be governed more by convenience than by covenant. It is not always convenient to live gospel standards and stand up for truth and testify of the Restoration. It usually is not convenient to share the gospel with others. It isn’t always convenient to respond to a calling in the Church, especially one that stretches our abilities. Opportunities to serve others in meaningful ways, as we have covenanted to do, rarely come at convenient times. But there is no spiritual power in living by convenience. The power comes as we keep our covenants. As we look at the lives of these early Saints, we see that their covenants were the primary force in their lives. Their example and testimony were powerful enough to influence generation after generation of their children.
As our children grow, they need information taught by parents more directly and plainly about what is and is not appropriate. Parents need to teach children to avoid any pornographic photographs or stories. Children and youth need to know from parents that pornography of any kind is a tool of the devil; and if anyone flirts with it, it has the power to addict, dull, and even destroy the human spirit. They need to be taught not to use vulgar language and never to use the Lord’s name in vain. Crude jokes overheard should never be repeated. Teach family members not to listen to music that celebrates the sensual. Talk to them plainly about sex and the teaching of the gospel regarding chastity. Let this information come from parents in the home in an appropriate way. All family members need to know the rules and be fortified spiritually so they can keep them. And when mistakes are made, the wondrous Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ must be understood and accepted so that through the complete and sometimes difficult process of repentance, forgiveness and continued hope for the future can be obtained. We must never give up our individual and family quest for eternal life.
Brothers and sisters, we need to instruct one another and instill deeper faith in our hearts to fortify ourselves with the courage to keep the commandments in a world of ever-increasing wickedness. We need to become so deeply converted to the gospel of Christ that the fire of the covenant will burn in our hearts like flame unquenchable. And with that kind of faith we will do what is necessary to remain true and worthy.
Second is communication. Nothing is more important to the relationship between family members than open, honest communication. This is particularly true for parents trying to teach gospel principles and standards to their children. The ability to counsel with our youth—and perhaps more importantly, to really listen to their concerns—is the foundation upon which successful relationships are built. Often what we see in the eyes and what we feel in the heart will communicate far more than what we hear or say.
There are powerful moments of communication through regular family prayer and through family scripture study. The scriptures will help define family values and goals, and talking together about them will assist family members to learn to become individually secure, spiritually strong, and self-reliant. This requires time, and so we need to counsel together about how much television, how many movies, videos, video games, time on the Internet, or out-of-the-home activities should be allowed.
Third is intervention. It is the parents’ duty to intervene when they see wrong choices being made. That doesn’t mean parents take from children the precious gift of agency. Because agency is a God-given gift, ultimately the choice of what they will do, how they will behave, and what they will believe will always be theirs. But as parents we need to make sure they understand appropriate behavior and the consequences to them if they pursue their wrongful course. Remember, there is no such thing as unlawful censorship in the home. Movies, magazines, television, videos, the Internet, and other media are there as guests and should only be welcomed when they are appropriate for family enjoyment. Make your home a haven of peace and righteousness. Don’t allow evil influences to contaminate your own special spiritual environment. Be kind, thoughtful, gentle, and considerate in what you say and how you treat each other. Then family goals based on gospel standards will make it easier to make good decisions.
Fourth is example. Just as it is difficult for a weary sailor to find his way across uncharted seas without the aid of a compass, it is almost impossible for children and youth to find their way through the seas of life without the guiding light of a good example. We cannot expect them to avoid those things that are inappropriate if they see their parents compromising principles and failing to live the gospel.
As parents, teachers, and leaders, it is our solemn duty to set a powerful, personal example of righteous strength, courage, sacrifice, unselfish service, and self-control. These are the traits that will help our youth hold on to the iron rod of the gospel and remain on the straight and narrow path.
I wish I could tell you that focusing on information, communication, intervention, and example would always result in a perfect family with perfect children who never stray from gospel standards. That is, unfortunately, not the case. But families that know, teach, and live gospel principles and standards are more likely to spare themselves the pain of serious mistakes. When long-established patterns of positive communication and faithful example prevail, it is much easier to counsel together about personal problems and to work through the necessary changes that will bless every family member.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Rise
This is a fantastic song by Shawn McDonald. You can hear it on k-love or you tube.
Rise
(Chorus)
Yes I will rise
Out of these ashes, rise
From this trouble I have found
And this rubble on the ground
I will rise(X2)
Cause He who is in me
Is greater than I will ever be
And I will rise
(X2)
Sometimes my heart is on the ground
And hope is nowhere to be found
Love is a figment I once knew
And yet I hold on to what I know is true
Chorus
Well I keep on coming to this place
That I don't know quite how to face
So I lay down my life in hopes to die
That somehow I might rise
Chorus
Rise
(Chorus)
Yes I will rise
Out of these ashes, rise
From this trouble I have found
And this rubble on the ground
I will rise(X2)
Cause He who is in me
Is greater than I will ever be
And I will rise
(X2)
Sometimes my heart is on the ground
And hope is nowhere to be found
Love is a figment I once knew
And yet I hold on to what I know is true
Chorus
Well I keep on coming to this place
That I don't know quite how to face
So I lay down my life in hopes to die
That somehow I might rise
Chorus
Healing Begins
This is a great song by Tenth Avenue North. You can hear it on K-love or you tube.
Healing Begins
So you thought you had to keep this up
All the work that you doSo we think that you're good
And you can't believe it's not enough
All the walls you built upAre just glass on the outside
So let 'em fall down
There's freedom waiting in the sound
When you let your walls fall to the ground
We're here now
This is where the healing begins
This is where the healing starts
When you come to where you're broken within
The light meets the dark
The light meets the dark
Afraid to let your secrets out
Everything that you hide
Can come crashing through the door now
But too scared to face all your fear
So you hide but you find
That the shame won't disappear
So let it fall down
There's freedom waiting in the sound
When you let your walls fall to the ground
We're here now
We're here now
Oh This is where the healing begins
This is where the healing starts
When you come to where you're broken within
The light meets the dark
The light meets the dark
Sparks will fly as grace collides
With the dark inside of us
So please don't fight
This coming light
Let this blood come cover us
His blood can cover us
This is where the healing begins
This is where the healing starts
Come to where you're broken within
The light meets the dark
The light meets the dark
Healing Begins
So you thought you had to keep this up
All the work that you doSo we think that you're good
And you can't believe it's not enough
All the walls you built upAre just glass on the outside
So let 'em fall down
There's freedom waiting in the sound
When you let your walls fall to the ground
We're here now
This is where the healing begins
This is where the healing starts
When you come to where you're broken within
The light meets the dark
The light meets the dark
Afraid to let your secrets out
Everything that you hide
Can come crashing through the door now
But too scared to face all your fear
So you hide but you find
That the shame won't disappear
So let it fall down
There's freedom waiting in the sound
When you let your walls fall to the ground
We're here now
We're here now
Oh This is where the healing begins
This is where the healing starts
When you come to where you're broken within
The light meets the dark
The light meets the dark
Sparks will fly as grace collides
With the dark inside of us
So please don't fight
This coming light
Let this blood come cover us
His blood can cover us
This is where the healing begins
This is where the healing starts
Come to where you're broken within
The light meets the dark
The light meets the dark
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Stake Conference Saturday Adult Session November 5, 2011
Opening hymn: 59 "Come, O Thou King of Kings"
Opening prayer
1st speaker: "Blessings of the Temple"
* We should be the happiest people on the earth. We have so much. We should have faith now and in the future.
*The temple is a safe harbor, a beacon of light, a house of peace, a house of learning, a house of prayer.
* We leave the temple feeling stronger and with a sense of relief.
* We feel joy for gifts that are overflowing.
* The temple is the object of every activity that we do.
* The temple ordinances are crucial to us because we can't return to God's glory without them.
* The temple helps us to get our bearings and gives us a safe way to get through our struggles.
* It helps us to put on the whole armor of God and gives us spiritual nourishment.
* The temple is a place where God can come.
* The temple is a place of sanctification, thanksgiving, unifying ordinances, and charity.
D&C 124: God commanded Joseph Smith to build a temple.
*The primary purpose of the temple is to provide the necessary ordinances to exaltation.
* It is a place of knowledge and wisdom. We are taught in the Lord's way - His way not ours. It is a place of solemn promising.
* It enables us to walk back to our Father.
* It is so important that we understand the purpose of our lives so we can focus on doing those things that have real meaning.
*Covenants are protective.
* The temple elevates us past our own perspective.
* Families can be together forever.
D&C 132: 46 - Whatever is bound on earth, is bound in heaven.
* The temple is an unyielding witness that goodness will prevail. Each temple lessen the power of evil and increases the power of good. It is where we get our true blessings. It helps us to be in the world and not of the world.
It is where we get guidance, revelation, and answers.
Our concern should be to perform ordinances for the dead so they won't be held back.
* The temple stands as a symbol of our membership in the church. It is a stepping stone. It brings us peace and spiritual strength. It keeps us on course.
* Everyone who goes to the temple comes out a better person than when they went in.
Go often! Bless the lives of others!
* The temple refuels our lamps. lightens our way, and prepares us for the second coming.
2nd speaker: "Temple Worship"
* D&C 97: my glory shall rest upon it, my presence shall rest upon it, pure in heart will see Me, Zion is the pure in heart
*The primary purpose of the temple is to gain the necessary ordinances for exaltation.
* We are taught special things we can only learn in the temple.
* One of our greatest responsibilities is to seek after our dead. Start by seeking the easy to find ancestors. Begin where you are.
* There is a spirit of peace that the temple brings.
* One of the benefits of the temple is that we can maintain our spiritual strength dail. Hasten to the temple as often as is possible. It is a place of beauty and peace.
3rd Speaker:
God loves us and wants us to be happy so He gives us rules and consequences.
* October 2001 Visiting Teaching Message: He is fully aware of our weaknesses and so He gave us covenants.
* We are more able to bear trials by keeping covenants. Covenants provide us protection, peae, and true joy.
* Going to the temple and listening to the promises gives us a feeling of hope, love, peace, and comfort.
* Everyone has struggles and needs the help of the Lord. Do we feel the blessings of our covenants?
How can we feel the blessings of our covenants?
1. Remember covenants.
2. Be grateful for covenants.
3. Seek the blessings of covenants.
4. Keep your covenants.
What might this look like? It can be things like:
*Putting up another picture of the temple
* Putting up post-it notes to remind yourself to be grateful for covenants
* Calendaring temple attendance
* Really thinking of covenants during sacrament
* Looking at garments in a different way and respecting them
Attending the temple and remembering our covenants increases our opportunities, expands our vision, and gives us strength in our challenges.
The greatest compliment we can receive is to be known as a covenant keeper.
As we turn to our covenants, we will feel their strength.
4th Speaker: President Foley "Qualifying For and Holding a Temple Recommend"
We should establish the temple as the symbol of our membership.
Matthew 22: 1-14 - Parable of the Marriage of the King's Son
1. We have to accept the invitation to go to the temple and get a temple recommend. The standards are His and are not open to interpretation.
2. We need to prepare to receive our temple recommends. This is an interview with God - our priesthood holders are facilitators for Him.
How do we prepare for an interview with the Lord? How do we dress and plan? How rushed are we? Do we take time to really ponder?
We are in a world beset by shifting values.
1 Nephi 8:19 - Rod of iron leads to the tree of life via the straight and narrow path
When we drift we can always reach back to grab hold of the iron rod. A temple recommend interview is our way of reseeking to take hold of the iron rod. Listen carefully to the spirit as you prepare.
The temple recommend process is an inspired process - a tender mercy to recommit to the gospel.
Special Musical Number: Be Still My Soul
5th Speaker: President Ames "Overcoming Adversity"
There is a God in Heaven.
The temple is the central theme of the family. It is our shadow by day and our pillar by night. Ordinances and truth await us in the temple.
Why Adversity?
1. Sin and rebellion against God.
2. Mistakes because of weaknesses
3. Actions of others
All of these have their own consequences.
Gene R. Cook "Overcoming Adversity: Suffering Tribulation in the Redeemer's Name"
* Our trials can either harden our hearts or they can humble us. Misery is of our own making. What we do with adversity makes all the difference in the world and in the eternities.
* We can deal with adversity the way Nephi did or the way Laman and Lemuel did. They were all in the same wilderness but responded differently.
Laman and Lemuel said "We cannot understand." Nephi asked them if they had inquired of the Lord. They responded that the Lord would make no such thing known to them.
Nephi prayed his heart would be softened so that he would understand.
The gospel will bring us through and change who we are.
D&C 109: 72-74
We have the opportunity to fulfill a heritage - to worship in this (Kansas City) temple. We are connected to those who have gone before us. Don't let adversity keep us from being the people of God.
6th speaker: President Morgan
Isaiah 52:1 Awake, Awake put on thy strength
We must awake and arie - put on beautiful garments - arouse ourselves to a greater devotion to the Lord.
We are not living up to our privileges. We need to put on righteousness, strength, and covenants. We put on strength by obedience.
D&C 109:73 May come forth out of the darkness
We live in a spiritual wilderness but we can put on the armor of God.
All things will be in commotion. Going to the temple will help our hearts not to fail.
D&C 101: Parable of the olive tree
Our tower is the temple. It keeps the enemy from coming in and destroying our families. The temple is a refuge for our families. If we do things to point our children to the temple, they will be able to go forward and serve with power.
We need to make the temple the central theme of our lives.
***Geographic proximity does not necessarily increase temple worship.***
We need to make the temple the symbol of our membership, devotion, and worship. Let us prepare against a drop off in attendance.
Spend time in families talking about the temple and who we can invite.
How can we make the temple a central part of our family? Make the temple part of your goals!
Closing hymn: 247 We Love Thy House O God
Closing prayer
Opening prayer
1st speaker: "Blessings of the Temple"
* We should be the happiest people on the earth. We have so much. We should have faith now and in the future.
*The temple is a safe harbor, a beacon of light, a house of peace, a house of learning, a house of prayer.
* We leave the temple feeling stronger and with a sense of relief.
* We feel joy for gifts that are overflowing.
* The temple is the object of every activity that we do.
* The temple ordinances are crucial to us because we can't return to God's glory without them.
* The temple helps us to get our bearings and gives us a safe way to get through our struggles.
* It helps us to put on the whole armor of God and gives us spiritual nourishment.
* The temple is a place where God can come.
* The temple is a place of sanctification, thanksgiving, unifying ordinances, and charity.
D&C 124: God commanded Joseph Smith to build a temple.
*The primary purpose of the temple is to provide the necessary ordinances to exaltation.
* It is a place of knowledge and wisdom. We are taught in the Lord's way - His way not ours. It is a place of solemn promising.
* It enables us to walk back to our Father.
* It is so important that we understand the purpose of our lives so we can focus on doing those things that have real meaning.
*Covenants are protective.
* The temple elevates us past our own perspective.
* Families can be together forever.
D&C 132: 46 - Whatever is bound on earth, is bound in heaven.
* The temple is an unyielding witness that goodness will prevail. Each temple lessen the power of evil and increases the power of good. It is where we get our true blessings. It helps us to be in the world and not of the world.
It is where we get guidance, revelation, and answers.
Our concern should be to perform ordinances for the dead so they won't be held back.
* The temple stands as a symbol of our membership in the church. It is a stepping stone. It brings us peace and spiritual strength. It keeps us on course.
* Everyone who goes to the temple comes out a better person than when they went in.
Go often! Bless the lives of others!
* The temple refuels our lamps. lightens our way, and prepares us for the second coming.
2nd speaker: "Temple Worship"
* D&C 97: my glory shall rest upon it, my presence shall rest upon it, pure in heart will see Me, Zion is the pure in heart
*The primary purpose of the temple is to gain the necessary ordinances for exaltation.
* We are taught special things we can only learn in the temple.
* One of our greatest responsibilities is to seek after our dead. Start by seeking the easy to find ancestors. Begin where you are.
* There is a spirit of peace that the temple brings.
* One of the benefits of the temple is that we can maintain our spiritual strength dail. Hasten to the temple as often as is possible. It is a place of beauty and peace.
3rd Speaker:
God loves us and wants us to be happy so He gives us rules and consequences.
* October 2001 Visiting Teaching Message: He is fully aware of our weaknesses and so He gave us covenants.
* We are more able to bear trials by keeping covenants. Covenants provide us protection, peae, and true joy.
* Going to the temple and listening to the promises gives us a feeling of hope, love, peace, and comfort.
* Everyone has struggles and needs the help of the Lord. Do we feel the blessings of our covenants?
How can we feel the blessings of our covenants?
1. Remember covenants.
2. Be grateful for covenants.
3. Seek the blessings of covenants.
4. Keep your covenants.
What might this look like? It can be things like:
*Putting up another picture of the temple
* Putting up post-it notes to remind yourself to be grateful for covenants
* Calendaring temple attendance
* Really thinking of covenants during sacrament
* Looking at garments in a different way and respecting them
Attending the temple and remembering our covenants increases our opportunities, expands our vision, and gives us strength in our challenges.
The greatest compliment we can receive is to be known as a covenant keeper.
As we turn to our covenants, we will feel their strength.
4th Speaker: President Foley "Qualifying For and Holding a Temple Recommend"
We should establish the temple as the symbol of our membership.
Matthew 22: 1-14 - Parable of the Marriage of the King's Son
1. We have to accept the invitation to go to the temple and get a temple recommend. The standards are His and are not open to interpretation.
2. We need to prepare to receive our temple recommends. This is an interview with God - our priesthood holders are facilitators for Him.
How do we prepare for an interview with the Lord? How do we dress and plan? How rushed are we? Do we take time to really ponder?
We are in a world beset by shifting values.
1 Nephi 8:19 - Rod of iron leads to the tree of life via the straight and narrow path
When we drift we can always reach back to grab hold of the iron rod. A temple recommend interview is our way of reseeking to take hold of the iron rod. Listen carefully to the spirit as you prepare.
The temple recommend process is an inspired process - a tender mercy to recommit to the gospel.
Special Musical Number: Be Still My Soul
5th Speaker: President Ames "Overcoming Adversity"
There is a God in Heaven.
The temple is the central theme of the family. It is our shadow by day and our pillar by night. Ordinances and truth await us in the temple.
Why Adversity?
1. Sin and rebellion against God.
2. Mistakes because of weaknesses
3. Actions of others
All of these have their own consequences.
Gene R. Cook "Overcoming Adversity: Suffering Tribulation in the Redeemer's Name"
* Our trials can either harden our hearts or they can humble us. Misery is of our own making. What we do with adversity makes all the difference in the world and in the eternities.
* We can deal with adversity the way Nephi did or the way Laman and Lemuel did. They were all in the same wilderness but responded differently.
Laman and Lemuel said "We cannot understand." Nephi asked them if they had inquired of the Lord. They responded that the Lord would make no such thing known to them.
Nephi prayed his heart would be softened so that he would understand.
The gospel will bring us through and change who we are.
D&C 109: 72-74
We have the opportunity to fulfill a heritage - to worship in this (Kansas City) temple. We are connected to those who have gone before us. Don't let adversity keep us from being the people of God.
6th speaker: President Morgan
Isaiah 52:1 Awake, Awake put on thy strength
We must awake and arie - put on beautiful garments - arouse ourselves to a greater devotion to the Lord.
We are not living up to our privileges. We need to put on righteousness, strength, and covenants. We put on strength by obedience.
D&C 109:73 May come forth out of the darkness
We live in a spiritual wilderness but we can put on the armor of God.
All things will be in commotion. Going to the temple will help our hearts not to fail.
D&C 101: Parable of the olive tree
Our tower is the temple. It keeps the enemy from coming in and destroying our families. The temple is a refuge for our families. If we do things to point our children to the temple, they will be able to go forward and serve with power.
We need to make the temple the central theme of our lives.
***Geographic proximity does not necessarily increase temple worship.***
We need to make the temple the symbol of our membership, devotion, and worship. Let us prepare against a drop off in attendance.
Spend time in families talking about the temple and who we can invite.
How can we make the temple a central part of our family? Make the temple part of your goals!
Closing hymn: 247 We Love Thy House O God
Closing prayer
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Someone Worth Dying For
This is a beautiful song by Mikeschair. You can hear it on klove.
Someone Worth Dying For
You might be the wife,
Waiting up at night
You might be the man,
Struggling to provide
Feeling like it's hopeless
Maybe you're the son,
Who chose a broken road
Maybe you're the girl,
Thinking you'll end up alone
Praying God can you hear me?
Oh God are you listening?
Chorus)
Am I more than flesh and bone?
Am I really something beautiful?
Yeah, I wanna believe,
I wanna believe that
I'm not just some wandering soul
That you don't see and you don't know
Yeah I wanna believe,
Jesus help me believe that
I Am someone worth dying for
I know you've heard the truth
that God has set you free
But you think you're the one
that grace could never reach
So you just keep asking,
what everybody's asking
Chorus
You're worth it, you can't earn it
Yeah the Cross has proven
That you're sacred and blameless
Your life has purpose
And you are more than flesh and bone
Can't you see you're something beautiful
Yeah you gotta believe, you gotta believe
He wants you to see, He wants you to see
That you're not just some wandering soul
That can't be seen and can't be known
Yeah you gotta believe, you gotta believe that you
Are someone worth dying for
You're someone worth dying for
You're someone worth dying for
Someone Worth Dying For
You might be the wife,
Waiting up at night
You might be the man,
Struggling to provide
Feeling like it's hopeless
Maybe you're the son,
Who chose a broken road
Maybe you're the girl,
Thinking you'll end up alone
Praying God can you hear me?
Oh God are you listening?
Chorus)
Am I more than flesh and bone?
Am I really something beautiful?
Yeah, I wanna believe,
I wanna believe that
I'm not just some wandering soul
That you don't see and you don't know
Yeah I wanna believe,
Jesus help me believe that
I Am someone worth dying for
I know you've heard the truth
that God has set you free
But you think you're the one
that grace could never reach
So you just keep asking,
what everybody's asking
Chorus
You're worth it, you can't earn it
Yeah the Cross has proven
That you're sacred and blameless
Your life has purpose
And you are more than flesh and bone
Can't you see you're something beautiful
Yeah you gotta believe, you gotta believe
He wants you to see, He wants you to see
That you're not just some wandering soul
That can't be seen and can't be known
Yeah you gotta believe, you gotta believe that you
Are someone worth dying for
You're someone worth dying for
You're someone worth dying for
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