Today's miracle was a simple moment of recollection. These are some of the easiest miracles to overlook, because it's just a thought. But they are some of the most important miracles, because it is the right thought brought to clarity at the right moment to change our lives.
It snowed today. On one hand...probably my right hand, you know - the dominate thoughts...I'm not too happy about snow. Mostly, I just don't like the cold and it kinda has to be cold to snow. I grew up in the desert where snow (and cold for that matter) are something that you visit for a day or so, then return home where a sweatshirt can get you through the day.
But on the other hand - I can't deny it's beauty. My world is covered in 3-4 inches, with more promised tonight. Hard edges become soft. Imperfections are buried. Eventually, everything is just a smooth, calm, white. I walk through a snow covered night, with sounds muffled and light enhanced. It feels enchanted.
And in that moment, a simple thought is brought to mind, Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Isaiah 1:1
Except, the odd thing was, when the phrase came to mind, it was altered slightly. "though your scars be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow."
Suddenly, I understood something I have long known. No matter how scarred, damaged, hurt, or beat I might get - God promises the peace, serenity, and enchantment of the night of the first heavy snowfall. He will cover it all up and let me walk in tranquility. And - if I let him - he will heal me so that the scars and damage and hurt are gone when the snow melts.
Showing posts with label Scripture References. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Scripture References. Show all posts
Monday, November 28, 2016
Monday, December 30, 2013
The Pearl of Great Price
I've done it! I've finished reading the entire standard works. The very last book in The LDS standard works is called the Pearl of Great Price. This is a collection of books from various sources and for various purposes. See the introduction for an explanation as to where everything came from.
As before, I'd like to share a few of my favorite verses. All three come from the Book of Moses, the first and longest book in the Pearl of Great Price.
Moses 1:13
In the chapter preceding this verse, Moses speaks face to face with God. Heavenly Father shows him his many creations and teaches Moses that he is His son. When Heavenly Father's presence leaves, Satan approaches Moses and tries to convince Moses to worship him instead. This is what happens:
"And it came to pass that Moses looked upon Satan and said: Who are thou? For behold, I am a son of God, in the similitude of his Only Begotten; and where is thy glory, that I should worship thee?"
Moses has learned, with a certainty, that he is a son of God. This knowledge is all he needs. As we are faced with the temptations of this world, we can recall that we are children of God. This world holds no glory for us compared to the glory that we have been promised as his children.
Moses 6:31
This has long been one of my favorite verses, I find it easy to relate to. In this chapter, God calls Enoch to be a prophet. He's generally considered to be a pretty incredible prophet, as he teaches an entire city and they become righteous to the point that the whole city is taken up into heaven. Amazing, no? I always felt that I could never be that great, this verse reminds me that Enoch probably felt the same way. God tells Enoch that he has been called as a prophet...
"And when Enoch had heard these words, he bowed himself to the earth, before the Lord, and spake before the Lord, saying: Why is it that I have found favor in thy sight, and am but a lad, and all the people hate me; for I am slow of speech; wherefore am I thy servant?"
I am not the only one who has ever thought "why me" and although I may feel little and unimportant, like Enoch, God might have great things in store for me. If I just in Him and answer when He calls, I will become as great as he needs me to be
Moses 7:32-33 (but really more like verses 21-40)
Long after Enoch begins teaching the people and many repent and choose to follow the teaching of the Gospel, he has another opportunity to speak with God. Here, God reveals to him that the people he teaches will become so righteous they go straight to Heaven. Heavenly Father also shows Enoch what will happen after this, how the world will become so wicked that only one righteous family will remain- Noah and his family- and that He would have to flood the whole world to destroy the wickedness. Enoch turns to God and sees Him crying and asks "How is it that thou canst weep, seeing thou art holy, and from all eternity to all eternity?" (vs 29). God responds:
"Behold these thy brethren; they are the workmanship of mine own hands, and I gave unto them their knowledge, in the day I created them; and in the Garden of Eden, gave I unto man his agency; And unto they brethren have I said, and also given commandment, that they should love one another, and that they should choose me, their Father; but behold, they are without affection, and they hate their own blood"
Heavenly Father cries because His children do not love each other. He had to destroy His own creations, His own children, so that more children would not be brought into a world which could only teach hatred and cruelty. God weeps for us because of how deep His love for us is.
So- I managed to finish everything, 2476 pages worth of scripture. Time to start again.
As before, I'd like to share a few of my favorite verses. All three come from the Book of Moses, the first and longest book in the Pearl of Great Price.
Moses 1:13
In the chapter preceding this verse, Moses speaks face to face with God. Heavenly Father shows him his many creations and teaches Moses that he is His son. When Heavenly Father's presence leaves, Satan approaches Moses and tries to convince Moses to worship him instead. This is what happens:
"And it came to pass that Moses looked upon Satan and said: Who are thou? For behold, I am a son of God, in the similitude of his Only Begotten; and where is thy glory, that I should worship thee?"
Moses has learned, with a certainty, that he is a son of God. This knowledge is all he needs. As we are faced with the temptations of this world, we can recall that we are children of God. This world holds no glory for us compared to the glory that we have been promised as his children.
Moses 6:31
This has long been one of my favorite verses, I find it easy to relate to. In this chapter, God calls Enoch to be a prophet. He's generally considered to be a pretty incredible prophet, as he teaches an entire city and they become righteous to the point that the whole city is taken up into heaven. Amazing, no? I always felt that I could never be that great, this verse reminds me that Enoch probably felt the same way. God tells Enoch that he has been called as a prophet...
"And when Enoch had heard these words, he bowed himself to the earth, before the Lord, and spake before the Lord, saying: Why is it that I have found favor in thy sight, and am but a lad, and all the people hate me; for I am slow of speech; wherefore am I thy servant?"
I am not the only one who has ever thought "why me" and although I may feel little and unimportant, like Enoch, God might have great things in store for me. If I just in Him and answer when He calls, I will become as great as he needs me to be
Moses 7:32-33 (but really more like verses 21-40)
Long after Enoch begins teaching the people and many repent and choose to follow the teaching of the Gospel, he has another opportunity to speak with God. Here, God reveals to him that the people he teaches will become so righteous they go straight to Heaven. Heavenly Father also shows Enoch what will happen after this, how the world will become so wicked that only one righteous family will remain- Noah and his family- and that He would have to flood the whole world to destroy the wickedness. Enoch turns to God and sees Him crying and asks "How is it that thou canst weep, seeing thou art holy, and from all eternity to all eternity?" (vs 29). God responds:
"Behold these thy brethren; they are the workmanship of mine own hands, and I gave unto them their knowledge, in the day I created them; and in the Garden of Eden, gave I unto man his agency; And unto they brethren have I said, and also given commandment, that they should love one another, and that they should choose me, their Father; but behold, they are without affection, and they hate their own blood"
Heavenly Father cries because His children do not love each other. He had to destroy His own creations, His own children, so that more children would not be brought into a world which could only teach hatred and cruelty. God weeps for us because of how deep His love for us is.
So- I managed to finish everything, 2476 pages worth of scripture. Time to start again.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
The Doctrine and Covenants
Yesterday, I finished reading The Doctrine and Covenants and figured I should report on it as I've done with the other books of scripture I have finished reading this year. This is the second-to-last entry about my goal to read the scriptures before the end of the year. Fortunately for me, the only book I have left to finish is The Pearl of Great Price, which is only 61 pages long. I think I can handle 61 pages in the next 7 days.
For those of you unfamiliar with this book of scripture: As a latter-day saint, I believe Joseph Smith was given an ancient record and, through the power of God, translated that record into scripture. This record is published as The Book of Mormon. Along with the power of translation, Joseph Smith was set apart as a seer and revelator. During his life time, he received many revelations, instruction for both himself and the Church. These have been compiled and published as The Doctrine and Covenants.
So- some passages that stuck out to me, either because they are long time favorites or because I noticed them particularly during this read through.
D&C 6:33-34 Fear not to do good, my sons, for whatsoever ye sow, that shall ye also reap; therefore, if ye sow good ye shall also reap good for your reward. Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if you are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail.
I love the way Christ speaks to us in this verse. He calls us his sons and his little flock. He acknowledges the feelings we have of being small and inadequate, and He doesn't tell us that those feelings are wrong. He isn't saying "Go- be big, be brave." He tells us instead that, despite our smallness, we need not fear. We can do good and stand against big things because we stand on His side. Christ has infinite strength and love for us, and infinity plus anything (no matter how small) is still infinite.
D&C 34: 2-3 (describing Christ) The light and the life of the world, a light which shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not; Who so loved the world that he gave his own life, that as many as would believe might become the sons of God.
This passage is another reminder of Christ's love for us, as well as a promise of what we can receive. As we believe, we have the opportunity to become- it is our chance to change because of the sacrifice Christ made for us. And what happens if we let that sacrifice change us? What do we become? We become the sons of God. We are all already His children, but to become "the sons of God" means that we have accepted him and begun to change to become like him. We have chosen to grow up to be like our Father.
D&C 76: 22-24 And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father -- That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God.
I know that this passage is true. Joseph, and the other men called of God to help him restore the Church of Jesus Christ to the earth, had the opportunity to see Christ. He lives. This is important to remember. It is true that Christ died for us and for our sins, but He was also resurrected, meaning that He lives. And through Him, we might live again too. That moment was so pivotal. He rose from the dead, testifying to all that he really is the Son of God and that he really had the power to take upon himself all of our sins and pains and sufferings. He lives, so his sacrifice is complete, that we might become whole through him.
For those of you unfamiliar with this book of scripture: As a latter-day saint, I believe Joseph Smith was given an ancient record and, through the power of God, translated that record into scripture. This record is published as The Book of Mormon. Along with the power of translation, Joseph Smith was set apart as a seer and revelator. During his life time, he received many revelations, instruction for both himself and the Church. These have been compiled and published as The Doctrine and Covenants.
So- some passages that stuck out to me, either because they are long time favorites or because I noticed them particularly during this read through.
D&C 6:33-34 Fear not to do good, my sons, for whatsoever ye sow, that shall ye also reap; therefore, if ye sow good ye shall also reap good for your reward. Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if you are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail.
I love the way Christ speaks to us in this verse. He calls us his sons and his little flock. He acknowledges the feelings we have of being small and inadequate, and He doesn't tell us that those feelings are wrong. He isn't saying "Go- be big, be brave." He tells us instead that, despite our smallness, we need not fear. We can do good and stand against big things because we stand on His side. Christ has infinite strength and love for us, and infinity plus anything (no matter how small) is still infinite.
D&C 34: 2-3 (describing Christ) The light and the life of the world, a light which shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not; Who so loved the world that he gave his own life, that as many as would believe might become the sons of God.
This passage is another reminder of Christ's love for us, as well as a promise of what we can receive. As we believe, we have the opportunity to become- it is our chance to change because of the sacrifice Christ made for us. And what happens if we let that sacrifice change us? What do we become? We become the sons of God. We are all already His children, but to become "the sons of God" means that we have accepted him and begun to change to become like him. We have chosen to grow up to be like our Father.
D&C 76: 22-24 And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father -- That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God.
I know that this passage is true. Joseph, and the other men called of God to help him restore the Church of Jesus Christ to the earth, had the opportunity to see Christ. He lives. This is important to remember. It is true that Christ died for us and for our sins, but He was also resurrected, meaning that He lives. And through Him, we might live again too. That moment was so pivotal. He rose from the dead, testifying to all that he really is the Son of God and that he really had the power to take upon himself all of our sins and pains and sufferings. He lives, so his sacrifice is complete, that we might become whole through him.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
The Book of Mormon
Continuing with my goal to read the standard works, I have finished the Book of Mormon. (For an explanation of this goal- see The Old Testament post)
I'm a little behind where I should be (If my calculations are correct, I should have finished it last week), but I'm not so far behind that I can't get caught up. Besides, I've got Thanksgiving and Christmas Break coming up soon. With no homework or midterms to worry about, I'm sure I'll get a lot of reading done.
I really love this book. Through the Book of Mormon, my faith in Christ grows, regardless of how many times I've read it. The teachings of this book help me to find a sense of peace that is difficult to find in the hustle and bustle of today's society. Here are a few of the versus that really touched me as I read.
3rd Nephi 5:13 "Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life."
During the 18 months of my mission, this was probably my favorite verse in the Book of Mormon. As a missionary, you can really feel those words fill you up. Since I've been home, I've been seeking ways to feel just as filled with these words. I came home from the Philippines, that's all that changed. I'm still a disciple of Jesus Christ. Therefore, I have the opportunity to share His gospel with others that they might have everlasting life.
Ether 12:37 "...And because though hast seen thy weakness though shalt be made strong,..."
This is just a small fragment of the verse, but the words mean a lot. People commonly quote Ether 12:27, which teaches about our weaknesses being given to us to help humble us and that through Christ, we can become strong. I find the promise in verse 37 hits a little closer to home. Christ does make us stronger, but He can only help us to change that which we are trying to change. I excel in seeing my own weaknesses. This verse reminds me that I have to see them before I can work with the Lord to change them. He promises that, as long as I rely on him, every weakness that I see in myself can become a strength.
I know this book to be true and I invite anyone who struggles to feel at peace to read this book and turn to the Lord. He will give you peace.
I'm a little behind where I should be (If my calculations are correct, I should have finished it last week), but I'm not so far behind that I can't get caught up. Besides, I've got Thanksgiving and Christmas Break coming up soon. With no homework or midterms to worry about, I'm sure I'll get a lot of reading done.
I really love this book. Through the Book of Mormon, my faith in Christ grows, regardless of how many times I've read it. The teachings of this book help me to find a sense of peace that is difficult to find in the hustle and bustle of today's society. Here are a few of the versus that really touched me as I read.
3rd Nephi 5:13 "Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life."
During the 18 months of my mission, this was probably my favorite verse in the Book of Mormon. As a missionary, you can really feel those words fill you up. Since I've been home, I've been seeking ways to feel just as filled with these words. I came home from the Philippines, that's all that changed. I'm still a disciple of Jesus Christ. Therefore, I have the opportunity to share His gospel with others that they might have everlasting life.
Ether 12:37 "...And because though hast seen thy weakness though shalt be made strong,..."
This is just a small fragment of the verse, but the words mean a lot. People commonly quote Ether 12:27, which teaches about our weaknesses being given to us to help humble us and that through Christ, we can become strong. I find the promise in verse 37 hits a little closer to home. Christ does make us stronger, but He can only help us to change that which we are trying to change. I excel in seeing my own weaknesses. This verse reminds me that I have to see them before I can work with the Lord to change them. He promises that, as long as I rely on him, every weakness that I see in myself can become a strength.
I know this book to be true and I invite anyone who struggles to feel at peace to read this book and turn to the Lord. He will give you peace.
Monday, August 26, 2013
The New Testament
About 2 weeks ago, I finished reading the New Testament as part of my goal mentioned a couple months ago. I've been lazy and unfocused and so I'm just now getting around to blogging my success. When I finished the Old Testament, I shared a few verses which really touched me, and I wanted to do the same with the New Testament. So- better late than never:
Matthew 2:2 "Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him."
For those of you who know me personally, you're aware that I'm partial to stars. The birth of a God was marked with the sign of a star. And there were people, great wise men, who saw the sign and sought the king. We often discuss the shepherds who were visited by angels and told of the birth of Christ. From them we learn that Christ came to lift up the lowly, a king came to rescue the shepherd. The wise men teach that even the most knowledgeable of the time can still believe in Christ. In today's world, especially working as a scientist, I'm often questioned about how I can believe in God. Some scientists claim that science "proves" that God does not exist. As one who came after him, I can believe, just as the ones who came before believed and watched for the signs and came. The shepherds were beckoned by angels, the wise men saw a star, even a great king was afraid of the power of a babe. If they can believe, so can I.
Matthew 9:29 "Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you."
Christ accomplished many miracles during his earthly ministry. Some of the most interesting to me have always been the blind receiving their sight (I think this is because going blind has always been one of my greatest fears). I love how often Christ reiterates the idea, "according to your faith be it unto you." Miracles come through our faith. They are a result of it. They were not intended to be proof so that we can believe, but after we believe, we can see miracles which can strengthen our faith in the Lord.
Luke 1:37 "For with God nothing shall be impossible."
This statement really means a lot to me right now. Mostly because college comes so close to feeling absolutely impossible. But there is the promise, clear as day, impossible to misinterpret. As I learn to trust in him, nothing shall be impossible. I may be weak by myself, but he is infinitely powerful, and infinity plus 1 can do anything.
Matthew 2:2 "Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him."
For those of you who know me personally, you're aware that I'm partial to stars. The birth of a God was marked with the sign of a star. And there were people, great wise men, who saw the sign and sought the king. We often discuss the shepherds who were visited by angels and told of the birth of Christ. From them we learn that Christ came to lift up the lowly, a king came to rescue the shepherd. The wise men teach that even the most knowledgeable of the time can still believe in Christ. In today's world, especially working as a scientist, I'm often questioned about how I can believe in God. Some scientists claim that science "proves" that God does not exist. As one who came after him, I can believe, just as the ones who came before believed and watched for the signs and came. The shepherds were beckoned by angels, the wise men saw a star, even a great king was afraid of the power of a babe. If they can believe, so can I.
Matthew 9:29 "Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you."
Christ accomplished many miracles during his earthly ministry. Some of the most interesting to me have always been the blind receiving their sight (I think this is because going blind has always been one of my greatest fears). I love how often Christ reiterates the idea, "according to your faith be it unto you." Miracles come through our faith. They are a result of it. They were not intended to be proof so that we can believe, but after we believe, we can see miracles which can strengthen our faith in the Lord.
Luke 1:37 "For with God nothing shall be impossible."
This statement really means a lot to me right now. Mostly because college comes so close to feeling absolutely impossible. But there is the promise, clear as day, impossible to misinterpret. As I learn to trust in him, nothing shall be impossible. I may be weak by myself, but he is infinitely powerful, and infinity plus 1 can do anything.
Friday, August 23, 2013
Wonderful
Sometimes, life is so perfect, there is no time to write about it, which is really a shame because it limits the opportunity to share something wonderful with others.
So- a quick synopsis of all I've done since I last wrote. I finished my summer research internship. I had to write a super long project report and give a really intimidating presentation to a bunch of scientists who know far more about solar physics than I do. However, my adviser said it was amazing and a bunch of other people told me that I did a good job. Success!
After finishing work with the National Observatory, I briefly returned to school to attend the wedding of one of my best friends. Weddings in the LDS church are a little different from the traditional wedding. I believe that God has called a living prophet and given him the authority to lead the church. The prophet has the ability to appoint individuals as sealers. These are people who have been given the authority described in Mathew 16:19, "whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in Heaven." This means weddings do not end with the typical mantra "till death do you part", the ceremony is instead concluded with the statement "sealed as man and wife for time and all eternity." Having the opportunity to hear these words again reminded me of Heavenly Father's plan for us. He doesn't just want us to be happy and married here on earth, He has provided us with the opportunity to be a family for all eternity. We can be happy for all eternity.
I returned home after the wedding and purchased my first car. I now have a car, and it's a beautiful car; I feel so empowered. My time was also spent weeding the backyard and shopping with my mom and younger brother as he prepared to start his first year of college. My baby brother is going to be up at school with me. It's the first time we've attended the same school at the same time since I was in 5th grade.
I'm now back at school getting caught up with friends and enjoying the time to relax before another school year starts. The weather is calm and a little rainy. The air is filled with the anticipation of something new about to begin. It's going to be a great school year!
So- a quick synopsis of all I've done since I last wrote. I finished my summer research internship. I had to write a super long project report and give a really intimidating presentation to a bunch of scientists who know far more about solar physics than I do. However, my adviser said it was amazing and a bunch of other people told me that I did a good job. Success!
After finishing work with the National Observatory, I briefly returned to school to attend the wedding of one of my best friends. Weddings in the LDS church are a little different from the traditional wedding. I believe that God has called a living prophet and given him the authority to lead the church. The prophet has the ability to appoint individuals as sealers. These are people who have been given the authority described in Mathew 16:19, "whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in Heaven." This means weddings do not end with the typical mantra "till death do you part", the ceremony is instead concluded with the statement "sealed as man and wife for time and all eternity." Having the opportunity to hear these words again reminded me of Heavenly Father's plan for us. He doesn't just want us to be happy and married here on earth, He has provided us with the opportunity to be a family for all eternity. We can be happy for all eternity.
I returned home after the wedding and purchased my first car. I now have a car, and it's a beautiful car; I feel so empowered. My time was also spent weeding the backyard and shopping with my mom and younger brother as he prepared to start his first year of college. My baby brother is going to be up at school with me. It's the first time we've attended the same school at the same time since I was in 5th grade.
I'm now back at school getting caught up with friends and enjoying the time to relax before another school year starts. The weather is calm and a little rainy. The air is filled with the anticipation of something new about to begin. It's going to be a great school year!
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Charity
1 Corinthians 13:8-10
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. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
The entirety of 1 Corinthians 13 is centered on Charity. From this chapter we learn that Charity is the love of Christ, without it we are nothing, and it is the greatest of the three traits often listed in the scriptures- faith, hope, and charity. From the verses quoted above, I have come to understand a little more the permanence of charity.
The Bible and Book of Mormon are both filled with prophecies of the time when all shall be made perfect. All human beings will be resurrected, brought back to life with a perfect and immortal body. Pain and sickness shall be done away. This will be a time of great change, as every individual will need to be perfected. Human knowledge will change, we shall see the faults in our discoveries and theories and have the opportunity to perfect our knowledge.
The prophesies of ancient prophets, which we learn through scripture, and modern prophets, which we can learn by listening to them and reading their words, will change. This one surprised me a little, since prophecy comes from God, so I figured it was perfect. The words that we receive are perfect, however; they are merely a part of all that God desires to give us. In our imperfect and still child-like state, we are not able to learn all, so the prophecies we receive are part of the whole truth. The prophecies will change because they will become complete. In other words, like human or physical knowledge, or spiritual knowledge will become perfected.
Charity is the only perfect thing that we, as imperfect beings, are able to access. As the pure love of Christ, charity cannot be imperfect. Christ loves each of us perfectly and completely. This is why He suffered and died, so that each of us might overcome our sins and imperfections. As we exercise charity, as we strive to love all, despite their imperfections, as Christ loves us despite ours, and as we avoid judging those who sin and instead seek to help them overcome sin, we grow a little more into the perfect beings we someday shall be. We cannot do it without Christ. Our love isn't yet perfect enough to overcome judgement and fear. For this reason, Christ gives us His love, He gives us Charity. It is already perfect, it will not change, but it will change us if we give it the chance.
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. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
The entirety of 1 Corinthians 13 is centered on Charity. From this chapter we learn that Charity is the love of Christ, without it we are nothing, and it is the greatest of the three traits often listed in the scriptures- faith, hope, and charity. From the verses quoted above, I have come to understand a little more the permanence of charity.
The Bible and Book of Mormon are both filled with prophecies of the time when all shall be made perfect. All human beings will be resurrected, brought back to life with a perfect and immortal body. Pain and sickness shall be done away. This will be a time of great change, as every individual will need to be perfected. Human knowledge will change, we shall see the faults in our discoveries and theories and have the opportunity to perfect our knowledge.
The prophesies of ancient prophets, which we learn through scripture, and modern prophets, which we can learn by listening to them and reading their words, will change. This one surprised me a little, since prophecy comes from God, so I figured it was perfect. The words that we receive are perfect, however; they are merely a part of all that God desires to give us. In our imperfect and still child-like state, we are not able to learn all, so the prophecies we receive are part of the whole truth. The prophecies will change because they will become complete. In other words, like human or physical knowledge, or spiritual knowledge will become perfected.
Charity is the only perfect thing that we, as imperfect beings, are able to access. As the pure love of Christ, charity cannot be imperfect. Christ loves each of us perfectly and completely. This is why He suffered and died, so that each of us might overcome our sins and imperfections. As we exercise charity, as we strive to love all, despite their imperfections, as Christ loves us despite ours, and as we avoid judging those who sin and instead seek to help them overcome sin, we grow a little more into the perfect beings we someday shall be. We cannot do it without Christ. Our love isn't yet perfect enough to overcome judgement and fear. For this reason, Christ gives us His love, He gives us Charity. It is already perfect, it will not change, but it will change us if we give it the chance.
Friday, June 21, 2013
The Old Testament
Several months ago, I made a goal to read my scriptures cover-to-cover. This consists of the Old and New Testaments, as well as three additional books members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints consider to be scripture- the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price.
Today, I finished the first and longest of these books- the Old Testament. I believe this is the first time I've read the Old Testament all the way through, and I will admit, there were parts that were hard to get through, like Chronicles and Numbers. I'm sure if I were a better person, I would have discovered all the important lessons with which the prophets filled these books. I guess I need to become a better person and come back to this again sometime. Of course, being unable to learn from Chronicles or Numbers doesn't mean that nothing was learned. I would like to share with you a few verses that really stuck out to me as I read this ancient work of revelation.
Isaiah 14:12-16. The first three verses describe Lucifer's fall from heaven due to his attempt to exceed God. Yet as great as his desire for power is, he is doomed to punishment. The last verse expresses what we shall see after this life. "They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms?"
These verses help me to remember two truths about Satan. The first is that he does have power to shake kingdoms and effect the world around us. Second, we shall look down upon him after this life, amazed at his smallness. He has great power, but only because we give it too him. It kinda reminds me of those bratty children you see who completely run their parents lives. They are tiny and powerless in the world, but have control because it is given to them. We are more than Satan is or ever will be. As we strive to live righteously, he will never be able to overpower us. He can tempt us, but he can never make us sin. The power of choice lies solely with us.
Jeremiah 1: 6-7 In the first part of the chapter, Jeremiah is told that he has been foreordained to be a prophet of God. These verses are his response. "Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak."
The Lord has often given me positions and responsibilities of which I felt completely incapable. I turned to him with a similar response as Jeremiah, "I am but a child, I'm unqualified and unable." Every time, he has responded just as He did above, with a reminder that I don't need to tell him I'm a child, he knows, and if I go where He has sent me, He will tell me what to do and say. He makes up for our weaknesses.
Ezekiel 36: 26 "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh."
This verse reminds me that no matter what happens, God can heal us. There are many ways to acquire a stony heart. It can be through our sins that pull us away from Heavenly Father or it can be the actions of others that hurt and leave scar tissue till your heart loses its ability to feel and care. Either way, if we turn to Him again, He promises to take that damaged heart away and make us new again. I've felt it and know it to be true. There was a time in my life where I could no longer deal with broken promises and fake friendships and I stopped caring about the world. I thought I could handle no more pain, so I refused to let myself feel it. This only made things worse as I became isolated and cold. Finally turning to God let in all the pain I had tried to hold out, however, it also flooded my soul with His love for me. He eased the pain, took away that which I couldn't bear, and gave me a new heart that might love again.
Today, I finished the first and longest of these books- the Old Testament. I believe this is the first time I've read the Old Testament all the way through, and I will admit, there were parts that were hard to get through, like Chronicles and Numbers. I'm sure if I were a better person, I would have discovered all the important lessons with which the prophets filled these books. I guess I need to become a better person and come back to this again sometime. Of course, being unable to learn from Chronicles or Numbers doesn't mean that nothing was learned. I would like to share with you a few verses that really stuck out to me as I read this ancient work of revelation.
Isaiah 14:12-16. The first three verses describe Lucifer's fall from heaven due to his attempt to exceed God. Yet as great as his desire for power is, he is doomed to punishment. The last verse expresses what we shall see after this life. "They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms?"
These verses help me to remember two truths about Satan. The first is that he does have power to shake kingdoms and effect the world around us. Second, we shall look down upon him after this life, amazed at his smallness. He has great power, but only because we give it too him. It kinda reminds me of those bratty children you see who completely run their parents lives. They are tiny and powerless in the world, but have control because it is given to them. We are more than Satan is or ever will be. As we strive to live righteously, he will never be able to overpower us. He can tempt us, but he can never make us sin. The power of choice lies solely with us.
Jeremiah 1: 6-7 In the first part of the chapter, Jeremiah is told that he has been foreordained to be a prophet of God. These verses are his response. "Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak."
The Lord has often given me positions and responsibilities of which I felt completely incapable. I turned to him with a similar response as Jeremiah, "I am but a child, I'm unqualified and unable." Every time, he has responded just as He did above, with a reminder that I don't need to tell him I'm a child, he knows, and if I go where He has sent me, He will tell me what to do and say. He makes up for our weaknesses.
Ezekiel 36: 26 "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh."
This verse reminds me that no matter what happens, God can heal us. There are many ways to acquire a stony heart. It can be through our sins that pull us away from Heavenly Father or it can be the actions of others that hurt and leave scar tissue till your heart loses its ability to feel and care. Either way, if we turn to Him again, He promises to take that damaged heart away and make us new again. I've felt it and know it to be true. There was a time in my life where I could no longer deal with broken promises and fake friendships and I stopped caring about the world. I thought I could handle no more pain, so I refused to let myself feel it. This only made things worse as I became isolated and cold. Finally turning to God let in all the pain I had tried to hold out, however, it also flooded my soul with His love for me. He eased the pain, took away that which I couldn't bear, and gave me a new heart that might love again.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Consider the Lilies
Time to take a short break from studying and share a bit about why today was a better day.
To start with a scripture passage Matthew 6:28-34
And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therfore no thought for the morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Now- what does this passage have to do with anything? For starters, it is one of my favorites. These verses are a simple reminder that God will take care of us as we trust in him. These verses though have recently developed an even deeper meaning to me. To those who know me well, I teach at the MTC. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is well known for the missionaries sent throughout the world. The MTC- or Missionary Training Center- is where they go for a brief training before being sent everywhere. I get to work with these young men and women and prepare them for that work. Many of these missionaries keep in touch with me after they leave by adding me to a list of recipients who receive weekly journal-like emails. I'd like to share an experience relating to this scripture verse from Elder Butler, who has been serving in the Philippines for approximately 2 months. He also read these verses and shared the following:
I initially thought about the people here and how for many of them, if they don't work on Sunday, then they don't eat on Sunday, and as missionaries we are asking them to keep all of Gods commandments including keeping the Sabbath day holy, and for me I would sometimes hesitate within myself, because I know these peoples situation and I know what it means for them to not work on Sunday and attend church. But it is a promise of the Lord, and the Lord knows that we need physical things as well as spiritual things, and if we put our priorities in the right place and show our faith the Lord he will make sure that we are taken care of. He takes care of the birds and clothes the lilies of the field in raiment that is more impressive than Solomon's temple, and he can also provide rice for a family if they make the decision to keep His commandments and keep His Sabbath day holy.
After reading his experience, my conviction of the above passage didn't change, but I gained a deeper understanding of it's truth. God really will provide all that we need. As I continue to trust in Him and do my best, everything will be alright. If I work my hardest and remain obedient and still don't get an A in every class, it does not mean I've failed. I merely didn't need it (as much as I might think I do) because the Lord will provide all that we need.
To start with a scripture passage Matthew 6:28-34
And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therfore no thought for the morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Now- what does this passage have to do with anything? For starters, it is one of my favorites. These verses are a simple reminder that God will take care of us as we trust in him. These verses though have recently developed an even deeper meaning to me. To those who know me well, I teach at the MTC. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is well known for the missionaries sent throughout the world. The MTC- or Missionary Training Center- is where they go for a brief training before being sent everywhere. I get to work with these young men and women and prepare them for that work. Many of these missionaries keep in touch with me after they leave by adding me to a list of recipients who receive weekly journal-like emails. I'd like to share an experience relating to this scripture verse from Elder Butler, who has been serving in the Philippines for approximately 2 months. He also read these verses and shared the following:
I initially thought about the people here and how for many of them, if they don't work on Sunday, then they don't eat on Sunday, and as missionaries we are asking them to keep all of Gods commandments including keeping the Sabbath day holy, and for me I would sometimes hesitate within myself, because I know these peoples situation and I know what it means for them to not work on Sunday and attend church. But it is a promise of the Lord, and the Lord knows that we need physical things as well as spiritual things, and if we put our priorities in the right place and show our faith the Lord he will make sure that we are taken care of. He takes care of the birds and clothes the lilies of the field in raiment that is more impressive than Solomon's temple, and he can also provide rice for a family if they make the decision to keep His commandments and keep His Sabbath day holy.
But in addition to this, as if to drive the point home, later that day as we were out teaching our less actives and investigators it was a very hot day and I didn't have any more water on me and I was very very thirsty, and sweating a lot, and of course I can't drink the water from the houses of the people or else I'll get sick. And there is no way we could return to our apartment to get water without wasting a lot of time, so we continue on with our teaching. But just as I was about to get to the point where I would need to get water from some place or else I might have some problems, it starts raining. And at first this was almost a mocking gesture to me, but then as we arrived at our investigators house I noticed how the water was running off my umbrella in a small stream. So I asked them for a cup, and with a few weird looks from them I took the cup and filled it up twice with the water running off my umbrella and drank. And as soon as I wasn't thirsty anymore it stopped raining and became clear and hot once more.
Now this may have been a small thing, and maybe you could call it a happy coincidence, but to me it just reminded me of what I had studied earlier. I was in need, and the Lord provided a way. And if He can do that for me when I'm thirsty, He can do the same for these people when they are hungry. And as a result I have no more fear in asking these people to keep the commandments of the Lord, because I know that when he makes a promise he makes good on it.
After reading his experience, my conviction of the above passage didn't change, but I gained a deeper understanding of it's truth. God really will provide all that we need. As I continue to trust in Him and do my best, everything will be alright. If I work my hardest and remain obedient and still don't get an A in every class, it does not mean I've failed. I merely didn't need it (as much as I might think I do) because the Lord will provide all that we need.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Unexpected
Every now and then, the unexpected happens. Every now and then, something we really desire happens. Every now and then, those are the same things.
Shortly after returning home from my mission, I applied to teach at the Missionary Training Center. It was a job I never expected to get; it was a dream I never thought to attain. Yet as my bracelet states, "dreams become reality, one choice at a time." I chose, I turned in an application, and I start work on Monday.
This gives me the opportunity to help others as they start on their big adventures. I'll be helping missionaries prepare to dedicate a portion of their lives to the Lord's work. I'm so excited.
Doctrine and Covenants 18:10,15-16
Remember the worth is great in the sight of God...
And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be, one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!
And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the kingdom of my Father, how great will be you joy if you should bring many souls unto me!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Easter
April 1, 2012
This is the week leading up to Easter. I remember as a child always loving Easter for the colorful baskets full of candy and a chocolate rabbit. As I've grown and gained an understanding of what Easter means, it has come to be a very special time of the year. Here in the Philippines, Easter Sunday itself isn't really celebrated. They focus on Thursday and Friday. I'd like to explain why all three days are important to me and to the whole world.
This is the week leading up to Easter. I remember as a child always loving Easter for the colorful baskets full of candy and a chocolate rabbit. As I've grown and gained an understanding of what Easter means, it has come to be a very special time of the year. Here in the Philippines, Easter Sunday itself isn't really celebrated. They focus on Thursday and Friday. I'd like to explain why all three days are important to me and to the whole world.
Thursday- On this day, Christ and his apostles went to a
garden called Gethsemane. There, Jesus knelt and prayed to His Father.
It was there, in the garden, that he took upon himself the pains and
sins of the world. We learn from the Book of Mormon, "and he shall go
forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind;
and this tat the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon
him the pains and the sicknesses of his people" (Alma 7:11). His
suffering was so great that he bleed at every pore and begged that he
might not have to suffer. Yet for us, he submitted to the will of
Heavenly Father and suffered for each of us. Through his suffering, we
have the opportunity to repent and not suffer ourselves for our sins
(Doctrine and Covenants 19:16-19).
Friday- After Christ suffered for us, he was
arrested and judged on false charges. He was ridiculed, tortured, and
sentenced to be crucified. His death fulfilled prophesies made from the
beginning of time by prophets in both the Bible and the Book of Mormon.
With his death, his sacrifice for us was completed.
Sunday- On this day, Jesus Christ rose from the dead
to become the first resurrected being. As two women named Mary came to
visit the tomb, the angel declared to them "He is not here; for he is
risen" (Matthew 28:6). No suffering occurred on this day. The
importance of this event is beyond my ability to describe. Christ's
resurrection makes everything else worthwhile. It proved his godhood and
divinity. If he hadn't risen, his suffering and death would have been
in vain, for it would have proved that he was no more than mere mortal.
But He lived again and he still lives today. Through the power of his
resurrection, we shall all live again to be given the opportunity to
return to our Father in Heaven.
I know that Jesus is the Christ. He suffered and
died for us so that we may overcome all forms of suffering and death
that we experience as mortal beings. I know that this is the central
principle of God's entire plan for each of his children on earth. As
you prepare for and celebrate Easter this year, think not only of the
eggs and chocolate and marshmallow chickens. Remember our Lord and
Savior, accept his invitation to repent and become new through the
sacrifice he has already made for you.
Kasayod ko raya.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
3 Nephi 9:21-22
February 12, 2012
"Behold, I have come unto the world to bring redemption unto the world, to save the world from sin.
"Therefore, whoso repenteth and cometh unto me as a little child, him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God. Behold, for such I have laid down my life, and have taken it up again; therefore repent, and come unto me ye ends of the earth, and be saved."
This is one of the passages I came across in my study this week. Christ himself is speaking to the people of ancient America. It's much like many passages throughout the Book of Mormon and New Testament. This passage really is a personal invitation from Christ to come unto him and receive the kingdom of God.
What struck me as I read was the timing of this particular invitation. As recorded in the Book of Mormon, the people of ancient America experience three days of darkness coinciding with the time that Christ was in the tomb. After Christ's resurrection, the darkness went away. Sometime after, Christ comes, as a resurrected being, and ministers to the people. The quoted verse comes just at the end of the time period of darkness. He is not yet there, but his voice is heard throughout the land. I realized as I read that this particular invitation occurred just days after that great atoning sacrifice that Christ made for all who have and ever will live on earth.
He states that for us he has laid down his life. For us he has taken it up again, to rise from the grave and become an immortal and perfected being. He did all this so that we might repent and turn to him and also be made perfect. Christ tells us this mere days after he laid down his life and maybe mere moments after he had taken it up again. He died for us and he lives for us, and from the moment he began to live again he was once again inviting us to come unto him and receive all the blessings that our Father in Heaven wants to give to us.
"Behold, I have come unto the world to bring redemption unto the world, to save the world from sin.
"Therefore, whoso repenteth and cometh unto me as a little child, him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God. Behold, for such I have laid down my life, and have taken it up again; therefore repent, and come unto me ye ends of the earth, and be saved."
This is one of the passages I came across in my study this week. Christ himself is speaking to the people of ancient America. It's much like many passages throughout the Book of Mormon and New Testament. This passage really is a personal invitation from Christ to come unto him and receive the kingdom of God.
What struck me as I read was the timing of this particular invitation. As recorded in the Book of Mormon, the people of ancient America experience three days of darkness coinciding with the time that Christ was in the tomb. After Christ's resurrection, the darkness went away. Sometime after, Christ comes, as a resurrected being, and ministers to the people. The quoted verse comes just at the end of the time period of darkness. He is not yet there, but his voice is heard throughout the land. I realized as I read that this particular invitation occurred just days after that great atoning sacrifice that Christ made for all who have and ever will live on earth.
He states that for us he has laid down his life. For us he has taken it up again, to rise from the grave and become an immortal and perfected being. He did all this so that we might repent and turn to him and also be made perfect. Christ tells us this mere days after he laid down his life and maybe mere moments after he had taken it up again. He died for us and he lives for us, and from the moment he began to live again he was once again inviting us to come unto him and receive all the blessings that our Father in Heaven wants to give to us.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Happy New Year 2012!
January 1st 2012
Another year has come and gone. It just doesn't feel like it's 2012. It doesn't feel like it's been long enough. I think part of it may be that the seasons are so subtle, time feels faster because there is no visual change in plants or weather to point it out. Whether or not it feels like it, it's 2012; nothing can change that fact. A few facts that do arise from this one fact:
I've lived in the Philippines for an entire year. I can no longer respond "Next year Pa" (still next year) when people ask me when I'm going home. Strange.
So- now to explain the picture. This picture is my super awesome visual for a Family Home Evening we taught last week. (Yes, I made it myself, with the help of my companion). Family Home Evening, for those of you who don't know, is a program of the church. Basically, it's just an opportunity for a family to gather together, play games, have a spiritual lesson, and be strengthened by each other. As missionaries, we are often invited to participate and usually give the lessons. My companion and I happened to read the same chapter, Alma 43, that morning during our personal study sessions, and we both commented on the contrast of preparation between the two classes of people, so this is what we taught.
There are the Lamanites, the black figure, and the Nephites, the white. These two groups of people are about to go to war with each other. The first, the Lamanites, have such a great desire that they grab their weapons and march upon the Nephites. The Nephites have a deeper desire to make sure they win as protection for their families. They know the Lamanites are coming, but they take the time to prepare, grabbing armor, shields, and swords. The number of Nephites was much smaller than that of the Lamanites, yet due to their preparation, they win.
There are many lessons that can be learned from this simple experience. The one we focused on was how important our preparation is in connection with our desire. Most people have desires, and those desires are often good. We desire to finish school, raise good families, receive salvation, and the list goes on. Yet what can those desires really do for you? We could take a Lamanite student who has a desire to do well on a test, grabs his pencil, and heads into the testing room. We can compare him with a Nephite student who recognizes the importance of the test, and equally filled with a desire to do well, sits and studies before jumping in. Who probably experienced more success. Our desires, standing alone, can't do a whole lot. It's when we allow those desires to push us to prepare that we experience the blessings. If we look at it from a religious aspect. Many people have a desire to go to church, Sunday morning rolls around and several people get up saying that they will go to church. Some get busy and distracted, others prepare to go. They all have the same desire, yet only part actually attends church, and only that part receives the blessings of having attended. Heavenly Father doesn't bless us just because we have good desires, we won't get to heaven just because we want to be there. We have to walk the path that will take us there.
ihanda ninyo agud magkaara sang mga handum ninyo.
PS - From her family letter about how she spent her New Year's eve.
We had to be home by 5:00 pm, but we stayed up anyways till 2 am! (not voluntarily, the neighbors had fireworks going until then and my companion and I couldn't sleep, the other companionship slept through it mostly). To celebrate we made lots of food, opened presents (my companion's family has a tradition of opening presents on New Year's so she bought us presents) and I made a batch of magic cookie bars, (the ingredients were from my Christmas package that finally arrived!) they were delicious.
My companion gave me a hair accessory, a bamboo wallet, and a pocket size Book of Mormon. Giving gifts on New Year's Eve is just a tradition of her family as far as I can tell. The bamboo wallet is more like a coin purse or a clutch bag. They make anything/everything out of bamboo!
PS - From her family letter about how she spent her New Year's eve.
We had to be home by 5:00 pm, but we stayed up anyways till 2 am! (not voluntarily, the neighbors had fireworks going until then and my companion and I couldn't sleep, the other companionship slept through it mostly). To celebrate we made lots of food, opened presents (my companion's family has a tradition of opening presents on New Year's so she bought us presents) and I made a batch of magic cookie bars, (the ingredients were from my Christmas package that finally arrived!) they were delicious.
My companion gave me a hair accessory, a bamboo wallet, and a pocket size Book of Mormon. Giving gifts on New Year's Eve is just a tradition of her family as far as I can tell. The bamboo wallet is more like a coin purse or a clutch bag. They make anything/everything out of bamboo!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Oh, That I were an Angel
December 18, 2011
A few scripture verses I read earlier this week in my personal study:
A few scripture verses I read earlier this week in my personal study:
"Oh, that I were an angel, and could have the wish of my heart, that I might go forth and speak with the trump of God, with a voice to shake the earth, and cry repentance unto every people! Yea, I would declare unto every soul, as with the voice of thunder, repentance and the plan of redemption, that they should repent and come unto our God that there might not be more sorrow upon all the face of the earth. But behold, I am a man, and do sin in my wish; for I ought to be content with the things which the Lord hath allotted unto me." Alma 29:1-3
My personal rewrite to apply the verses to my own life:
"Oh, that I were an elder, and could have the wish of my heart, that I might go forth and speak with the trump of God for two whole years...But behold, I am a sister, and do sin in my wish; for I ought to be content with the eighteen months which the Lord hath allotted unto me."
Just something kinda funny that I realized this week. Sister missionaries are assigned to serve for 18 months, while elders get 2 years. For much of my mission, I was honestly jealous of the elders and the extra 6 months that they get to spend as a missionary. After reading these verses though, I realized I must be content with the time that I have and just use it as best as I can. Besides- my mom would probably kill me if I told her I was staying for an extra 6 months.
On another note. This week was totally amazing. We had several wonderful lessons and were able to find many individuals that we had been looking for. One thing I really love doing in each area is getting to know the people who are already members of the church, especially those who haven't been able to attend in a while. Sometimes these people are very difficult to find, I can't just see them at church and ask where their house is. My companion and I set aside a few hours this week to try to find some of these people and get to know them a little bit better. We headed out with a prayer for assistance and faith that we would be able to locate them.
The first people we asked directed us to a nearby tsunggi, telling us the tag-iya might know where they live (definitions: tsunggi- small store, tag-iya- owner). The tag-iya didn't know very many of them besides the one who happened to live next door, but sitting in front of the tsunggi was a sweet old man who walked up to me and said, "I'm a member" (yes- in English). He was really excited to see the missionaries again, showed us where he lives, introduced us to his wife, and then his wife came along to show us where some other members live. It was so much fun. The wife even came to church this week! They are a sweet old couple. I love this work; I'm so very grateful for my chance to be a part of it.
Ingat, Halong, Andam, Dahan, and Take Care.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Friends!
November 20, 2011
The lyrics to one of my favorite TV show theme songs:
The lyrics to one of my favorite TV show theme songs:
Your jobs a joke, you're broke, your love life's DOA.
It's like you're always stuck in second gear,
Well, it hasn't been your day, your week, your month, or even your year. But...
I'll be there for you, when the rain starts to pour.
I'll be there for you, like I've been there before.
I'll be there for you, cause you're there for me too.
You're still in bed at ten, and work began at eight.
You've burned your breakfast, so far, things are going great.
Your mother warned you they'd be days like these,
But she didn't tell you when the world has brought you down to your knees that...
I'll be there for you, when the rain starts to pour.
I'll be there for you, like I've been there before.
I'll be there for you, cause you're there for me too.
No one could ever know me, no one could ever see me.
Seems like you're the only one who knows what it's like to be me.
Someone to face the day with, make it through all the rest with,
Someone I'll always laugh with, even at my worst, I'm best with you.
It's like you're always stuck in second gear,
Well, it hasn't been your day, your week, your month, or even your year.
But, I'll be there for you, when the rain starts to pour.
I'll be there for you, like I've been there before.
I'll be there for you, cause you're there for me too.
This is probably the best description of the last two transfers. My companion and I are great friends. We help each other laugh, we tell each other jokes, and we support each others. And we've been doing all of this through nearly three months of wanting to cry and feeling like we're about to fall down and fall hard. I mentioned a few weeks ago of hoping that our string of unfortunate circumstances would soon be ending. I've come to the conclusion, however, that the unending problems that began at the beginning of our companionship will continue till the end. The strangest thing is that none of it is caused by our companionship. We are great friends and if we didn't have each other I think we would have both gone crazy. Our trials instead take the form of drunk men trying to ask for our number, dogs eating our stuff, getting sick, people stealing stuff out of my companion's backpack, investigators having strokes, recent converts becoming seriously ill for weeks, and I could go on but probably shouldn't because this blog would be incredibly depressing if I did so. In essence, these last three months have been the hardest of my mission, but I've been blessed with a companion who embodies the above lyrics and I try to do the same for her.
In the midst of our problems and challenges, we have felt very alone. Circumstances and such often leave us feeling as though she and I stand together as the devil throws everything he has at us. As trial after trial buffets our lives we cannot help but feel exhausted- physically, mentally, and emotionally. When you spend the hours between 6:30 and 8 in the morning discovering that the phone and my companion's wallet have both gone missing and that an amazing investigator who wanted to come to church is now in the hospital because she had a stroke (and in addition to all that, she had the stroke because her son was in a drunk rage and breaking their house, and all the grandchildren happen to have the chicken pox right now) and then you have to rush to church and look like nothing is wrong, it can leave one feeling as though the weekly allotment of emotional energy for the week is already gone despite the clock reading 8 am on Sunday morning. I'm honestly not sure how much longer I can keep pushing though all of this. I hope and pray that it will all stop before I do.
Despite all this, we really have been doing our best to keep an optimistic attitude. We know that the Lord stands with us and will strengthen us to survive what we are facing. My experiences leave me thinking of a story in the Book of Mormon. The story is of Nephi and his brothers. They are sent to retrieve what is known as the Brass Plates from a wicked man named Laban. The first two attempts to retrieve the plates results in their stuff being stolen, nearly being killed, and being chased out of the city by Laban's armies. The older brothers insist on giving up at this point and going home, but Nephi wants to continue for they have been commanded of God to acquire the plates. The brothers respond that they are just 4 boys and the armies of Laban will kill them if they return. Nephi's response is as such, "Let us go up again unto Jerusalem, and let us be faithful in keeping the commandments of the Lord; for behold, he is mightier than all the earth, then why not mightier than Laban and his fifty, yea, or even than his tens of thousands?" (1 Nephi 4:1). The Lord is mightier than all the earth. He is mightier than all the forces of Satan that try to drag my companion and I down. All the forces of lonesomeness, abandonment, sickness, and distress can do nothing against the power of the Lord. If I must, I will stand alone against all that is against me because I know that I'm not truly alone. Standing beside me are my companion and the Lord, even if no one else, and the three of us (as long as we make sure that we have the Lord with us) are powerful enough to over come it all.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Doctrine & Covenants 63:66
November 14, 2011
Last week, I shared about our long chain of difficulties and trials, as well as expressing the hope that they would all be over with the new week. I must have forgotten to knock on wood or something because the difficulties have not let up one bit. They don't really need to all be repeated and remembered, so instead I would like to share something I learned this week in my scripture study that probably wouldn't have been nearly as interesting if I hadn't been dealing with so much in my life.
Last week, I shared about our long chain of difficulties and trials, as well as expressing the hope that they would all be over with the new week. I must have forgotten to knock on wood or something because the difficulties have not let up one bit. They don't really need to all be repeated and remembered, so instead I would like to share something I learned this week in my scripture study that probably wouldn't have been nearly as interesting if I hadn't been dealing with so much in my life.
Trials, of course, our given to us in life to help us to develop and become something better. We learn patience, endurance, and humility as we learn to trust in the Lord as we work through our challenges. This week, I learned another reason Heavenly Father blesses us with challenges in our lives. Doctrine and Covenants 63:66 reads "These things remain to overcome through patience, that such may receive a more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, otherwise, a greater condemnation. Amen." Our trials are not just to change us and mold us while we are in this life, but Heavenly Father gives us trials so that we might have a greater reward in the life to come. I thought of this much like students in school. Teachers who love their students give them tests. Though tests are difficult and sometimes obnoxious, the process of preparing for and succeeding at a test helps strengthen the student. These tests don't just help the student during their at school life. As they truly work hard, they are blessed with more opportunities and a better job for the life that starts after high school.
So, that's what I've learned this week. Although the challenges haven't let up, despite life still being difficult, Heavenly Father loves me. In fact, it is his love for me that is the cause. If I never had to fight and grow and struggle on my mission, I would walk off the airplane at the end of my mission and not be any better than I was when I left. I'm meant for something better than that.
As a side note: for those of you who are unaware, I have big exciting news! My older brother got married this week. It is strange to think that for the first time in my life I've got a sister, I've never had one before (just best friends who I call sisters). Sometimes, it's really strange to sit and remember that life really is continuing forward and changing for everyone I know back home. I don't usually hear much about it, so sometimes I forget. I'm so excited for my brother though, taking another step and starting his own family. Life is great!
Tanan kang pagpalangga ko kanimo! Tani mayad ang semana nyo prehas kanakon. Nagakadlo ako bangod bakot nyo namaan kun ano hinambalan nga ginausar ko. Nahidlow ko kamo!
Mom's note - I asked Elora what that meant and this was her reply - It says "all my love to you. Hope your week was as good as mine. I'm laughing because you don't know which language I'm using (which happens to be kinaray-a). I miss all of you!" a more literal translation "all my love to you. Hope good week yours like mine. Laughing I because don't you know what language is using me. miss I you all. (I love literal translations)
Mom's note - I asked Elora what that meant and this was her reply - It says "all my love to you. Hope your week was as good as mine. I'm laughing because you don't know which language I'm using (which happens to be kinaray-a). I miss all of you!" a more literal translation "all my love to you. Hope good week yours like mine. Laughing I because don't you know what language is using me. miss I you all. (I love literal translations)
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Rain!
August 7, 2011
This week has been marked by a nearly unending downpour of rain. My companion and I have had a great deal of fun wandering through shin-deep water and a little less fun as we've had to cancel appointments because the floods are more than shin-deep. We've spent the majority of the week in a state of very wet, and all the rest of the time has been a condition of mostly wet. Today though is filled with sunlight that we are hoping still exists when we leave the internet cafe.
We used the extra time we had from cancelled appointments to visit members, we visited active members to ask for referrals and inactive members to help strengthen their faith and encourage them to come back to church. One of the funnest things we've done this week has been to share Helaman 5:12 to nearly every member (active or not) that we visited. The verse reads "And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of miser and endless woe, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." Our members found the humor of this verse as rain beat upon their roofs with such force, we were nearly shouting to hear each other.
We asked each of them what storms the devil had brought to their lives. We asked them how they had overcome these storms. And we asked them what they do build a foundation upon Christ. One less-active sister answered quickly, "Pagbasa kag Pagpangamuyo" (read and pray) then she paused and laughed, "kag pagsimba man, di ba?" (and go to church too, right?) We eagerly agreed with her and she committed to coming to church that week if it wasn't raining.
This entertaining experience turned into a miracle Sunday, when it was not only raining, but pouring. We walked into the chapel to be greeted by this sister, as well as her less-active son and his wife. The whole branch was overjoyed at their attendance. I know Heavenly Father loves me, because he let me be a part of this miracle. And I know He loves this family as well, because he helped them come to church again. Isn't life beautiful!
Halong Kamo!
Palangga Ko Kamo Gid!!! (I love all of you a lot!)
ps- the great thing about the words ko and kamo when you put them together is that it sounds like Coco-mo from that Beach Boys song.
This week has been marked by a nearly unending downpour of rain. My companion and I have had a great deal of fun wandering through shin-deep water and a little less fun as we've had to cancel appointments because the floods are more than shin-deep. We've spent the majority of the week in a state of very wet, and all the rest of the time has been a condition of mostly wet. Today though is filled with sunlight that we are hoping still exists when we leave the internet cafe.
We used the extra time we had from cancelled appointments to visit members, we visited active members to ask for referrals and inactive members to help strengthen their faith and encourage them to come back to church. One of the funnest things we've done this week has been to share Helaman 5:12 to nearly every member (active or not) that we visited. The verse reads "And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of miser and endless woe, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." Our members found the humor of this verse as rain beat upon their roofs with such force, we were nearly shouting to hear each other.
We asked each of them what storms the devil had brought to their lives. We asked them how they had overcome these storms. And we asked them what they do build a foundation upon Christ. One less-active sister answered quickly, "Pagbasa kag Pagpangamuyo" (read and pray) then she paused and laughed, "kag pagsimba man, di ba?" (and go to church too, right?) We eagerly agreed with her and she committed to coming to church that week if it wasn't raining.
This entertaining experience turned into a miracle Sunday, when it was not only raining, but pouring. We walked into the chapel to be greeted by this sister, as well as her less-active son and his wife. The whole branch was overjoyed at their attendance. I know Heavenly Father loves me, because he let me be a part of this miracle. And I know He loves this family as well, because he helped them come to church again. Isn't life beautiful!
Halong Kamo!
Palangga Ko Kamo Gid!!! (I love all of you a lot!)
ps- the great thing about the words ko and kamo when you put them together is that it sounds like Coco-mo from that Beach Boys song.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Light
July 24, 2011
Several months ago I spoke of the brother of Jared and his pile of rocks (blog entry "A Pile of Rocks" written back in January). This month, my regular reading of the Book of Mormon had brought me once again to that same story. I've found this section of the Book of Mormon, referred to as the Book of Ether, has really grown in depth and meaning for me throughout my mission. Without fail, I find a message of peace, comfort, and understanding, every time I read it. This time, as I read, the message was found in the same chapters that "A Pile of Rocks" was found in, but it was a very different message. Instead of being a message about what I have to offer now, it is a message of what Heavenly Father provided me before I came to earth. The story below can be found in Ether, chapters 2-6.
A group of people, referred to as the people of Jared, had left Jerusalem to find a promised land the Lord had promised them. They eventually reached the ocean and were given instruction on how to build barges in order to cross the vast waters. The brother of Jared went to the Lord after the barges were finished to inquire as to what the people could have for light on their long journey. The response he received was "What will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have light when ye are swallowed up in the depths of the sea?" (Ether 2:25). This question really stuck out to me, much more than the response of the brother of Jared, as it did last time. The people were going to have a dark and difficult journey ahead of them, and the Lord was willing to provide them with that which they asked for to provide light and comfort.
It made me think back to a time, a time I actually can't remember. As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we believe that we lived with our Father in Heaven, or God, as spirit children before we came to this earth. We obviously don't remember this portion of our lives, much like most people don't remember the first few years of their life. As part of our testing and growing on this earth, we needed to forget and walk according to our faith. It is a time of spiritual darkness, away from our Heavenly Father's presence. I imagine the conversation that might have occurred:
Us: Father, life is going to be dark and difficult, what shall we do to have light? Where shall we find guidance to help us return to thee safely?
Heavenly Father: What will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have guidance?
Us: Could you provide us with prophets, men who are called by thee to help us learn thy plan for us? May we have scriptures, holy writings where we can learn that which we have forgotten?
The scene even came to mind of a more personal conversation I may have had with Heavenly Father. A one-on-one moment to ask for parents who would guide me along the path of truth, leaders in church to help me through times of trial. I can even imagine me asking about a time in my life where I would be in the Philippines, and would be required to speak a language I wasn't very comfortable with. I would have challenges teaching people and talking to them and days I didn't get along with those I lived with. I can imagine asking for him to bless me with a wonderful companion who would help me learn and grow and realize I'm capable of the challenges that lie ahead. And my Heavenly Father loves me, so he allowed it to be so. I'm so very thankful for the amazing companion he has blessed me with for this transfer.
Several months ago I spoke of the brother of Jared and his pile of rocks (blog entry "A Pile of Rocks" written back in January). This month, my regular reading of the Book of Mormon had brought me once again to that same story. I've found this section of the Book of Mormon, referred to as the Book of Ether, has really grown in depth and meaning for me throughout my mission. Without fail, I find a message of peace, comfort, and understanding, every time I read it. This time, as I read, the message was found in the same chapters that "A Pile of Rocks" was found in, but it was a very different message. Instead of being a message about what I have to offer now, it is a message of what Heavenly Father provided me before I came to earth. The story below can be found in Ether, chapters 2-6.
A group of people, referred to as the people of Jared, had left Jerusalem to find a promised land the Lord had promised them. They eventually reached the ocean and were given instruction on how to build barges in order to cross the vast waters. The brother of Jared went to the Lord after the barges were finished to inquire as to what the people could have for light on their long journey. The response he received was "What will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have light when ye are swallowed up in the depths of the sea?" (Ether 2:25). This question really stuck out to me, much more than the response of the brother of Jared, as it did last time. The people were going to have a dark and difficult journey ahead of them, and the Lord was willing to provide them with that which they asked for to provide light and comfort.
It made me think back to a time, a time I actually can't remember. As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we believe that we lived with our Father in Heaven, or God, as spirit children before we came to this earth. We obviously don't remember this portion of our lives, much like most people don't remember the first few years of their life. As part of our testing and growing on this earth, we needed to forget and walk according to our faith. It is a time of spiritual darkness, away from our Heavenly Father's presence. I imagine the conversation that might have occurred:
Us: Father, life is going to be dark and difficult, what shall we do to have light? Where shall we find guidance to help us return to thee safely?
Heavenly Father: What will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have guidance?
Us: Could you provide us with prophets, men who are called by thee to help us learn thy plan for us? May we have scriptures, holy writings where we can learn that which we have forgotten?
The scene even came to mind of a more personal conversation I may have had with Heavenly Father. A one-on-one moment to ask for parents who would guide me along the path of truth, leaders in church to help me through times of trial. I can even imagine me asking about a time in my life where I would be in the Philippines, and would be required to speak a language I wasn't very comfortable with. I would have challenges teaching people and talking to them and days I didn't get along with those I lived with. I can imagine asking for him to bless me with a wonderful companion who would help me learn and grow and realize I'm capable of the challenges that lie ahead. And my Heavenly Father loves me, so he allowed it to be so. I'm so very thankful for the amazing companion he has blessed me with for this transfer.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Warrior
June 12, 2011
This week my reading in the Book of Mormon has brought me to what people often call the "War Chapters." As the name implies, they are about war. The two main civilizations in the Book of Mormon are the Lamanites and the Nephites. The war chapters focus on several years in which these two civilizations are in constant war because the first is trying to take over the second and take away their freedom. The Nephites, though smaller in number, fight diligently as they defend their families and their right to freedom. Their desires are pure and honest, they are not seeking for power over another people.
In an effort to help, several young men volunteer to go to war as well. They are referred to as the Stripling Warriors due to there young age. These two thousand young men had never fought before, but desired the freedom of those they loved so much that they were willing to give of their lives. At first, these young men, due to their youth, were used to carry supplies or as decoys in order to keep them out of the main fighting. Eventually though, the other armies of the Nephites were not enough to overcome the Lamanites who were attacking them and these 2000 men were asked to join the fight.
Alma 56
44 - Therefore what say ye, my sons, will ye go against them to battle?
45 - And now I say unto you, my beloved brother Moroni, that never had I seen so great courage, nay, not amongst all the Nephites.
46 - For as I had ever called them my sons (for they were all of them very young) even so they said unto me: Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall; then let us go forth; we would not slay our brethren if they would let us alone; therefore let us go, lest they should overpower the army of Antipus.
47 - Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them.
I may not stand at the brink of a physical battle, but I hope to develop their courage and faith. I do stand at the front lines of a spiritual battle for each person I teach. I'm fighting for their spiritual freedom. I know that God is with me and I shall not fall.
Palangga Ko Kamo!
Here is a link if you want to read more in Alma:
http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma?lang=eng
Sorry, I couldn't get it to post as a link but just copy and paste
This week my reading in the Book of Mormon has brought me to what people often call the "War Chapters." As the name implies, they are about war. The two main civilizations in the Book of Mormon are the Lamanites and the Nephites. The war chapters focus on several years in which these two civilizations are in constant war because the first is trying to take over the second and take away their freedom. The Nephites, though smaller in number, fight diligently as they defend their families and their right to freedom. Their desires are pure and honest, they are not seeking for power over another people.
In an effort to help, several young men volunteer to go to war as well. They are referred to as the Stripling Warriors due to there young age. These two thousand young men had never fought before, but desired the freedom of those they loved so much that they were willing to give of their lives. At first, these young men, due to their youth, were used to carry supplies or as decoys in order to keep them out of the main fighting. Eventually though, the other armies of the Nephites were not enough to overcome the Lamanites who were attacking them and these 2000 men were asked to join the fight.
Alma 56
44 - Therefore what say ye, my sons, will ye go against them to battle?
45 - And now I say unto you, my beloved brother Moroni, that never had I seen so great courage, nay, not amongst all the Nephites.
46 - For as I had ever called them my sons (for they were all of them very young) even so they said unto me: Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall; then let us go forth; we would not slay our brethren if they would let us alone; therefore let us go, lest they should overpower the army of Antipus.
47 - Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them.
I may not stand at the brink of a physical battle, but I hope to develop their courage and faith. I do stand at the front lines of a spiritual battle for each person I teach. I'm fighting for their spiritual freedom. I know that God is with me and I shall not fall.
Palangga Ko Kamo!
Here is a link if you want to read more in Alma:
http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma?lang=eng
Sorry, I couldn't get it to post as a link but just copy and paste
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Bands
Sunday May 1, 2011
Another week has come and gone- they really fly by so quickly. I swear I was just here the other day emailing you. This week, I've focused my personal study time on charity. I've realized I spent many weeks worrying about and thinking about myself and I haven't thought much about others. This is something I want to change for the transfer ahead of me. (oh- side note, this Friday is the transfer day, nothing is changing in my companionship)
One of the biggest insights I had this week about charity actually occurred during my regular Book of Mormon reading, not when I was intentionally studying charity. I was reading in the book of Mosiah, chapter 7. Ammon and some of his people go to search for a group of people who has separated from the main population a few generations before. When they find them, they are immediately taken prisoner and cast in jail for several days. When King Limhi finally gives Ammon a chance to speak, Ammon explains who he is. Ammon had come to find and help the people of Limhi and rescue them from captivity. King Limhi had imprisoned the person who had come to help, without even asking him who he was. The thing that stuck out to me most was when Ammon said, "I am assured that if ye had known me ye would not have suffered that I should have worn these bands."
So- how does this relate to charity. Sometimes, we don't know someone very well. We don't take time to talk to them and figure out who they are. Before we give them a chance we bind them with titles like "annoying," "ugly," "anti-social," or "stuck-up" or any other label. We imprison them in our thoughts and don't give them a chance. How long do we wait till we let them speak and discover that we have bound someone who can help us? How much greater would life be if we didn't label them in the first place and just let them teach us who they are?
"If you judge people, you have no time to love them." -Mother Theresa
This Past week has been very exciting. The excitement began Monday as soon as I finished emailing and hasn't stopped yet.
Just after emailing we went to a less-active family to celebrate the fathers birthday and hold an FHE. The FHE never actually happened because far more people showed up to the birthday than anticipated. One of the guests was a cousin of the wife, and he was very very...very drunk. My pale skin, as normal, attracted a great deal of his attention and- in English- he asked me how long I had been in the Philippines, if I knew Hiligaynon, and how I knew Hiligaynon having only been here 3 months. I answered these three questions in Hiligaynon. Then he asked me again- all three, still all in English. Then he asked again, and then again. I'm not sure how many times he actually asked me these three questions, but that's basically how the afternoon went. We had delicious food- at one point or another the drunk man attempted to ask me to marry him, and then everyone convinced him he was to drunk and needed to go home.
Wednesday I celebrated my 6 months as a missionary mark. It's amazing how fast the time flies. I celebrated by making pancakes for breakfast. Nothing super exciting, for the most part the day just slipped quietly away. It's strange now, to realize I've already been gone for 6 months. I feel like I left yesterday, and I feel like I've been here forever.
Sunday was stake/area conference. We each met and opened as a stake, and then had a broadcast for the whole area. This area conference was part of the kick off of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of missionary work in the Philippines. It was so cool. I feel so very blessed to be here at this time and participate in this celebration. In the afternoon we headed out for our typical work day- we had an opportunity to visit Brother L, a new-ish investigator. Last time we visited we gave him a Book of Mormon and asked him to read the introduction. With most investigators, we come back and they say they aren't finished with the intro yet. This is how our conversation with Brother L went: (translated, obviously. oh- and his answers are usually really short because he's had a stroke and has difficulty talking, he doesn't say more than he needs to)
Missionary: Did you get a chance to read, Brother?
Brother: yup
M: How far did you get, What have you been reading about?
B: Some prophet with a funny name
(at this point we are thinking, hey- that means he's at least finished the intro)
M: Do you remember what the name was, what was happening?
B: I've dog-eared the page- just look.
M: Here!?! (Pointing to a page that's been folded, nearly halfway through the book)
B: yup.
It was really cool. He says he plans on finishing it before we come back later this week and he's such a receptive investigator. I feel so blessed for the people I get to meet.
Love you all!
Another week has come and gone- they really fly by so quickly. I swear I was just here the other day emailing you. This week, I've focused my personal study time on charity. I've realized I spent many weeks worrying about and thinking about myself and I haven't thought much about others. This is something I want to change for the transfer ahead of me. (oh- side note, this Friday is the transfer day, nothing is changing in my companionship)
One of the biggest insights I had this week about charity actually occurred during my regular Book of Mormon reading, not when I was intentionally studying charity. I was reading in the book of Mosiah, chapter 7. Ammon and some of his people go to search for a group of people who has separated from the main population a few generations before. When they find them, they are immediately taken prisoner and cast in jail for several days. When King Limhi finally gives Ammon a chance to speak, Ammon explains who he is. Ammon had come to find and help the people of Limhi and rescue them from captivity. King Limhi had imprisoned the person who had come to help, without even asking him who he was. The thing that stuck out to me most was when Ammon said, "I am assured that if ye had known me ye would not have suffered that I should have worn these bands."
So- how does this relate to charity. Sometimes, we don't know someone very well. We don't take time to talk to them and figure out who they are. Before we give them a chance we bind them with titles like "annoying," "ugly," "anti-social," or "stuck-up" or any other label. We imprison them in our thoughts and don't give them a chance. How long do we wait till we let them speak and discover that we have bound someone who can help us? How much greater would life be if we didn't label them in the first place and just let them teach us who they are?
"If you judge people, you have no time to love them." -Mother Theresa
This Past week has been very exciting. The excitement began Monday as soon as I finished emailing and hasn't stopped yet.
Just after emailing we went to a less-active family to celebrate the fathers birthday and hold an FHE. The FHE never actually happened because far more people showed up to the birthday than anticipated. One of the guests was a cousin of the wife, and he was very very...very drunk. My pale skin, as normal, attracted a great deal of his attention and- in English- he asked me how long I had been in the Philippines, if I knew Hiligaynon, and how I knew Hiligaynon having only been here 3 months. I answered these three questions in Hiligaynon. Then he asked me again- all three, still all in English. Then he asked again, and then again. I'm not sure how many times he actually asked me these three questions, but that's basically how the afternoon went. We had delicious food- at one point or another the drunk man attempted to ask me to marry him, and then everyone convinced him he was to drunk and needed to go home.
Wednesday I celebrated my 6 months as a missionary mark. It's amazing how fast the time flies. I celebrated by making pancakes for breakfast. Nothing super exciting, for the most part the day just slipped quietly away. It's strange now, to realize I've already been gone for 6 months. I feel like I left yesterday, and I feel like I've been here forever.
Sunday was stake/area conference. We each met and opened as a stake, and then had a broadcast for the whole area. This area conference was part of the kick off of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of missionary work in the Philippines. It was so cool. I feel so very blessed to be here at this time and participate in this celebration. In the afternoon we headed out for our typical work day- we had an opportunity to visit Brother L, a new-ish investigator. Last time we visited we gave him a Book of Mormon and asked him to read the introduction. With most investigators, we come back and they say they aren't finished with the intro yet. This is how our conversation with Brother L went: (translated, obviously. oh- and his answers are usually really short because he's had a stroke and has difficulty talking, he doesn't say more than he needs to)
Missionary: Did you get a chance to read, Brother?
Brother: yup
M: How far did you get, What have you been reading about?
B: Some prophet with a funny name
(at this point we are thinking, hey- that means he's at least finished the intro)
M: Do you remember what the name was, what was happening?
B: I've dog-eared the page- just look.
M: Here!?! (Pointing to a page that's been folded, nearly halfway through the book)
B: yup.
It was really cool. He says he plans on finishing it before we come back later this week and he's such a receptive investigator. I feel so blessed for the people I get to meet.
Love you all!
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