Our Thoughts and Prayers for Those in Tornado Areas

Today our sincere thoughts and prayers are for those affected by the recent tornadoes in Oklahoma and surrounding areas.  Many have lost precious loved ones, homes, places of worship, schools, livelihoods  etc.  Most of us are far from those areas and unable to do much physically, but we pray for and want them to know that we care very much and will do what we can to help.

Photo from the Deseret News

Here's a link to the Red Cross site - where all can donate.  100% of the money goes directly to the cause.   Red Cross - Oklahoma City

We encourage all to do as they are able.
Prayers are appreciated.
Contributions are needed.
Humanitarian Aid is within the grasp of most of us.
Mormon Helping-Hands will most-assuredly be out there soon (if they aren't already) to assist!

Thank you for all the good that you all do!  We're in this together.  We have a commission from the Savior to bless and help and lift and serve our fellowman.

The Crucial Test of Life

My sweet 15 yr. old daughter texted me late last night and said "Mom, I think you might like to read this talk by Elder Packer.  It's very good." So, this morning, after taking her to a class, I came home and felt to read through it.  I actually watched and read at the same time.  You can also do so at "The Choice".

We will reap what we sow...

I'll share a few clips here that stood out for me today.  One of them was that this life seems to be a constant battle of good and evil, light and dark, right and wrong.  One of the things that I've struggled with over the past several years - is the quest for Zion and how far from it we often may be - in our own neighborhoods and amongst those who seem to desire the same things yet are at different places on the path.

I've spent many, many hours reading, researching, studying, fasting, praying and seeking further light and knowledge concerning the preparing of Zion vs the contrast of what is actually happening
around us.

Elder Packer shares truths from his own experience and the teachings of the Lord.  I invite all to ponder on the day in which we live and the importance of making wise choices, for, we will truly reap what we sow.

"It is the understanding of almost everyone that success, to be complete, must include a generous portion of both fame and fortune as essential ingredients. The world seems to work on that premise. The premise is false. It is not true. The Lord taught otherwise.....You need not be either rich or hold high position to be completely successful and truly happy....In fact, if these things come to you, and they may, true success must be achieved in spite of them, not because of them.

...We come into mortal life to receive a body and to be tested, to learn to choose....We want our children and their children to know that the choice of life is not between fame and obscurity, nor is the choice between wealth and poverty. The choice is between good and evil, and that is a very different matter indeed.

When we finally understand this lesson, thereafter our happiness will not be determined by material things. We may be happy without them or successful in spite of them.....Wealth and prominence do not always come from having earned them. Our worth is not measured by renown or by what we own.

....Our lives are made up of thousands of everyday choices. Over the years these little choices will be bundled together and show clearly what we value.

The crucial test of life, I repeat, does not center in the choice between fame and obscurity, nor between wealth and poverty. The greatest decision of life is between good and evil.

We may foolishly bring unhappiness and trouble, even suffering upon ourselves. These are not always to be regarded as penalties imposed by a displeased Creator. They are part of the lessons of life, part of the test.

Some are tested by poor health, some by a body that is deformed or homely. Others are tested by handsome and healthy bodies; some by the passion of youth; others by the erosions of age.....Some suffer disappointment in marriage, family problems; others live in poverty and obscurity. Some (perhaps this is the hardest test) find ease and luxury.

All are part of the test, and there is more equality in this testing than sometimes we suspect....This message is central to the scriptures. The Book of Mormon tells us that “men are instructed sufficiently that they know good from evil” (2 Ne. 2:5).

We are taught, also, “Men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose”—

One: “liberty and eternal life, through the great mediation of all men.”

Or, two: “to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil.” (2 Ne. 2:27.)

...“Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matt. 6:33).

“Before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God....“And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted.” (Jacob 2:18–19.)

“Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich” (D&C 6:7).....“Behold, he that hath eternal life is rich” (D&C 11:7).

What, then, do we want you to do?  Simply this:   Be good!   Study the gospel.  Live it!   Stay active in the Church.    Receive the ordinances.    Keep your covenants."

Elder Boyd K. Packer, The Choice

Provo Canyon this Morning

It was SO beautiful this morning that I had to stop and take a photo.  This is looking west - over Deer Creek Reservoir.  The sun was spotlighting the mountain perfectly and the green rolling hills seemed extra majestic against the long-awaited beautiful blue sky!

Provo Canyon - overlooking Deer Creek Reservoir - May 14, 2013

A little further on (closer to Provo from Heber) was this beautiful scene.  I had wished for my son to be there and take the photos.  But, I had to use my cell phone.  Nevertheless, it was a powerful site and great reminder of the beauties that we have been given to enjoy.  I just couldn't let the moment pass without making a more permanent record to share.

Provo Canyon heading west - May 14, 2013

Happy or Unhappy Mother's Day?

Whether you are a mother or not, or whether you had a good day yesterday or not - we honor you.  We submit our sincere support and love to all - whether lives are easy or difficult.

A dear friend recently lost her mother by way of a severe and heartbreaking 'disowning'.  My soul has swelled in her behalf many times and I don't know of many who could have endured all she has in her hard life.  I admire her courage and tenacity amidst heartbreak and sometimes even utter despair.  She's overcome more than anyone I've ever known and is a continual example to me of how her faith has gotten her through and how the Lord has been her closest companion all of her life - particularly when she was on the streets at age 14.

Consider the Lilies of the Field

To all who suffer or struggle or who have grieved the loss of an ideal situation - we share our love and support.  We know, by personal experience, that off-times life is very hard and not 'fair'.  Some who seem to 'have it all' are often unaware, or perhaps negligent, of those in their midst who may be in great pain.

Another friend texted me yesterday after church and told me that she just couldn't attend her congregation on Mother's Day.  Both her parents have passed on and she has no family support from those who should be there for her.  She's had major health challenges her whole life and has been in a wheelchair for about 20 years.  Her desire for spouse and children has never been met - yet she faces life with courage and is an example to all around her.  But, even so, she said that she just could not face hearing ideal mother's day talks from the well-meaning, yet perhaps somewhat insensitive speakers.

I know what she means.  And, I understand some of the heartache pain that accompanies unmet needs, desires and longings.

Perhaps at times like this - we could be more sensitive to those around us who do not have their righteous desires met.  Many are of the noble and faithful who serve and care for others'.  Perhaps those who do have loving marriages, spouses, children etc. might ponder on those who don't - and try to lift and acknowledge and pray for those whose hearts may be breaking as ideals are held-up.

Rightly so, we honor womanhood and motherhood.  I believe, as do many on here, that those are the greatest and most noble callings in life.  They are to be treasured as priceless - and honored and revered.  They are to be sought after correctly and used to help build up the Kingdom of God on earth.

Yet, even so, during that holding-up of the goal - may we be more sensitive and mindful of those who aren't blessed with those things at present - through no fault of their own, and who would do anything they could for those blessings?  Might we add an addendum to our speeches of gratitude and include concern for those who are either childless, or motherless, or who have lost home and family, or those who have been abused and neglected, or who have wayward children, or who have suffered all variety of life challenges which excluded the blessings of having a Happy Mother's Day?

Thank you all for the goodness you portray.  We're in this together, trying to make things work, giving it our best, struggling to learn and grow and overcome - as we work with those around us who also struggle.  What a blessing it is to have life - yet what a challenge to become refined as we do so.  Yet, as we've said before, it will all be worth it.  It's all for good and something we longed for before we came to earth.  Someday we'll be able to know more of the why's - but, for now, we know that they are for our learning and growth and progression.  May we make the path easier for one another by sharing our love and support as the Savior taught.

Consider the Lilies of the Field
"Consider the lilies of the field,
how they grow, how they grow."

"Consider the birds in the sky,
How they fly, how they fly.

He clothes the lilies of the field.
He feeds the birds in the sky.
And he will feed those who trust him,
And guide them with His eye."

"Consider the sheep of his fold,
How they follow where he leads.
Though the path may wind across the mountains,
He knows the meadows where they feed."

"He clothes the lilies of the field.
He feeds the birds in the sky,
And he will feed those who trust him,
And guide them with his eye."

"Consider the sweet, tender children
Who must suffer on this earth..."

The pains of all of them he carried
From the day of his birth.
He clothes the lilies of the field,
He feeds the lambs in His fold,
And he will heal those who trust him,
And make their hearts as gold."

"Inspire My Life" - Sat. May 4, 2013

Inspire My Life! is a new conference coming to Salt Lake (Cottonwood High School) this Saturday, May 4th from 9-5 p.m. There are  many wonderful artists and presenters: Charley Jenkins, David Christensen, Vickey Pahnke Taylor, Curtis Jacobs, Daniel Beck, Katherine Nelson, and Jessie Clark Funk. 

Get your FREE tickets now by going HERE: 

Any donations will go to help single moms at People Helping People.       

Saturday, May 4, 2013

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. - Registration
10:00 - Introduction
10:15 - Daniel Beck
11:00 - David Christensen
11:45 - Katherine Nelson
12:30 - Lunch
1:45 -  Jessie Funk
2:30 -  Curtis Jacobs
3:15 -  Break
3:30 -  Vickey Pahnke Taylor
4:15 -  Break
4:30 -  Charley Jenkins

Inspire My Life is designed to motivate, educate and inspire women to develop deep reservoirs of strength and optimism regardless of life’s challenges and to heighten their own self-worth, bring about constructive change and build meaningful relationships.     ----   www.InspireMyLife.com

Womanhood: The Highest Place of Honor

“The true spirit of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gives to woman the highest place of honor in human life. To maintain and to merit this high dignity she must possess those virtues which have always, and which will ever, demand the respect and love of mankind … [because] ‘a beautiful and chaste woman is the perfect workmanship of God.’”  To occupy the highest place of honor places a responsibility on...women to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all places.  

One of humankind’s greatest blessings is for righteous womanhood to hold “the highest place of honor in human life” and to be “the perfect workmanship of God.” I love to hear my wife, Ruth, and our daughters say, “I am glad I am a woman.” This tells me they have the vision of their divine destiny. Hopefully you will find joy in your womanhood during all stages of your life."    - Elder James E. Faust

The Greatest Gift

"It is written that the greatest gift God can bestow upon man is the gift of eternal life.  The greatest
attainment that we can reach is to preserve our identity to an eternal duration in the midst of heavenly hosts.  We have the words of eternal life given to us through the gospel, which, if we obey, will secure unto us that precious gift."   President Brigham Young

However many mistakes you have made....

I believe that this says it all.  Thank the Lord above for providing this most-marvelous of gifts.  We are ever-blessed, especially if we will receive it.  

"I do not know who in this vast audience today may need to hear the message of forgiveness inherent in this parable, but however late you think you are, however many chances you think you have missed, however many mistakes you feel you have made or talents you think you don't have, or however far from home and family and God you feel you have traveled, I testify that you have not traveled beyond the reach of divine love.  It is not possible for you to sink lower than the infinite light of Christ's Atonement shines."  - Jeffrey R. Holland, "The Laborers in the Vineyard"

Free from Worldly Traits and Attributes

I am not sure where this message came from as I found it in my files and it's just a copy of a section of a page, but I am thinking it's probably from a lesson manual of some kind, given me to read during a church meeting in the past.  No matter the source - it's filled with light and truth and I've been pondering upon it all week.  This morning I felt to share it.  Enjoy!

"It is manifestly impossible to walk in holiness before the Lord without the edifying presence of the Holy Spirit.  Only by the power and influence of spiritual gifts conferred upon covenant people of the Lord can anyone be holy and free from worldly traits and attributes.  No one can speak, listen, view or participate in the ways of the world and still maintain a spiritual attitude of holiness and worthiness.

Forsaking the world is not accomplished at some instant in time when making a covenant.  That is but the beginning of a lifetime objective of keeping covenants by faithfully striving and enduring to the end in order to ultimately overcome the world and receive the Lord's promised blessings.

Though all of us face unrelenting challenges and temptations, possess wearying weaknesses, and live with an abundance of imperfections, still the Lord provides the encouraging and uplifting strength and power the Lord provides for those who sincerely seek to keep His commandments."

"Just Build Up the Kingdom of God" - Glenn Beck

Thank you, Glenn Beck, for a wake-up call to us all this morning.  You are a man of integrity and I appreciate all that you have done.

-- I was only in the car for 6 minutes this morning as I drove my 15 yr. old daughter to a class.  After I dropped her off I turned on the radio to hear Glenn Beck for my 3 minute ride home - which I often do - to get my fix for the day. (I love that man.)  It wasn't by chance that this occurred.  I'm grateful for miracles that the Lord provides each day!

He was sharing a brief message and then leaving for the day.  His thoughts centered around recent prayers at church as he diligently sought guidance and direction from the Lord (one of the reasons I love him so; and for the integrity of his heart.)

He talked of how he sincerely desired to know the Lord's will and that, as he prayed he received the witness to "Just Build Up the Kingdom of God, and everything else will fall into place."  Instead of continuing to vent the frustrations that so many feel - of our current domestic and global events,  he now will focus more on the things that matter most; and the peace and safety we can each feel as we turn to the Lord and away from pride and selfishness and anger.  He will still keep us informed, yet focus more on what we can proactively do to get our own lives in order.

My added witness is that things are happening quickly across the world.  As most of us who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and have studied diligently the signs of the times, the Second Coming of Christ, latter-day revelation from modern-day prophets, and scriptural passages that teach of global calamities for our time, these things don't surprise us.  What does is the seeming lack of concern from many who seem to need to 'awaken to their awful situation' and put on the full armor of God.

I've done many different blogs over the years.  All have been because of personal promptings and how to best use my gifts and talents to build up the Kingdom of God.  I've learned a lot since those first days of trying to figure out how to build a blog, and have developed many positive online connections across the world.  It's been a rewarding journey and one I did not know would happen when I first began.

All of my blogs are from my personal experiences and beliefs.  I haven't had time to keep them all up - but, they all still get hits and, hopefully, help people.  From my first, simple, beginnings they have included those on:  Preparedness,  Home Schooling, Local Home-Schooling, My Personal Life, Home-Management, and now Women of Light and LDS Power Bloggers (which I'm hoping to turn over to someone else.) 

Words about Jesus Christ; from Vickey Pahnke Taylor

From Vickey Pahnke Taylor - we get the following beautiful 

message and words about Jesus Christ.  Thank you, Vickey!!!

"There are no adequate mortal words for sharing my feelings about Jesus Christ, and His loving, perfect Atonement. Here are a few simple thoughts:

1. Easter is a time I revere and in which I joy! How perfect that it comes at the first signs of spring - at least where I live- and I can enjoy the symbolism of the flowers beginning to peek out of the ground, renewed!

2. As a child, my favorite part of Easter was arising early - in darkness- to dress and head to church for the Sunrise Service. After being baptized at age 16 into this Church, I've recalled those Sunrise Service days yearly. I like to get up early and watch the sun come up. What perfect imagery.

3. Jesus Christ is my friend, my blessing, my shepherd, my Savior. His love, while far beyond what I can comprehend in my mortalness, allows me to savor a sampling of how it feels to serve and care about and love other people. I'm so grateful for Him!

4. His names are many - Wonderful, Counselor....... Mostly though, He is MY Savior and MY Redeemer. How amazing that the Atonement is for all the world, and yet for each and every one of us - individually.

5. Jesus Christ is the focus and the means by which I can return to my Father and Mother in Heaven. I'm grateful to know this. I felt it in my heart from the time I was a tiny child. It took me quite some years to find a church that taught what I knew, in my soul, to be true.

6. I say "Amen" to Elder Neal A. Maxwell's words: "The gift of .. the resurrection is so powerful a promise that our rejoicing in these great and generous gifts should drown out any sorrow, assuage any grief, conquer any mood, dissolve any despair, and tame any tragedy." 

7. If you have any questions or concerns, turn to the scriptures and then ask- in faith- that you may receive answers. When we ask in truth, we will be led to truth. It happened to me as a youngster, and the years since have been ardous and long, but beautiful and wonderful - because of the Savior Jesus Christ, who walks in front, protecting and blessing and allowing me to learn.

How grateful I am for Him! How wonderful that we can speak of Him, learn of Him, become - in small ways- like Him!

Happy Easter!"

Vickey can be found blogging at Goodness Matters.  Read more of her uplifting and wonderful messages!

I Know that My Redeemer Lives: From Rachel Koko

From Rachel Koko who blogs at Filled With Charity, we get the following powerful and personal witness of the Atonement of the Savior and our current and ultimate need for Him.  Thank you, Rachel! 

"I feel, and the Spirit seems to accord, that the most important doctrine I can declare, and 

the most powerful testimony I can bear, is of the atoning sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ."

 ~ Elder Bruce R. McConkie

 

"None Were With Him"; an Apostle's thoughts on Easter

"Book of Mormon prophets teach us that the Atonement was part of the plan of salvation that God had for each of us his children. In Alma 34:9 Amulek teaches:  "For it is expedient that an atonement should be made; for according to the great plan of the Eternal God there must be an atonement made, or else all mankind must unavoidably perish; yea, all are hardened; yea, all are fallen and are lost, and must perish except it be through the atonement which it is expedient should be made."

"Alma continues, "And now, the plan of mercy could not be brought about except an atonement should be made; therefore God himself atoneth for the sins of the world, to bring about the plan of mercy, to appease the demands of justice, that God might be a perfect, just God, and a merciful God also." (Alma 42:15)

"I was a young teenager when I heard Elder Bruce R. McConkie bear testimony of the Savior that April General Conference in 1985. I was impressed by the relationship Elder McConkie had with his Savior, Jesus Christ. I knew even at that young age, that I wanted my relationship with my Savior to be that personal and intimate. 

"And now, as pertaining to this perfect atonement, wrought by the shedding of the blood of God—I testify that it took place in Gethsemane and at Golgotha, and as pertaining to Jesus Christ, I testify that he is the Son of the Living God and was crucified for the sins of the world. He is our Lord, our God, and our King. This I know of myself independent of any other person.

I am one of his witnesses, and in a coming day I shall feel the nail marks in his hands and in his feet and shall wet his feet with my tears. But I shall not know any better then than I know now that he is God’s Almighty Son, that he is our Savior and Redeemer, and that salvation comes in and through his atoning blood and in no other way."

Read Rachel's full article "I Know that My Redeemer Lives".

  

"There is no other way nor means whereby man can be saved, only through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ, who shall come; yea, remember that he cometh to redeem the world."