Sunday Lesson: Dec 28th

Our last Relief Society lesson of the year was given by Sis. Jacquelyn Brady. Her lesson came from the Oct. 2014 Conference talk by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland,Are We Not All Beggars? 

Christ made it clear that His first and foremost messianic duty would be to bless the poor, including the poor in spirit. We are reminded that Jesus himself was born into the home of a poor family and grew up among many more of them. "Down through history, poverty has been one of humankind's greatest and most widespread challengesl. Its obvious toll is usually physical, but the piritual and emotional damage it can bring may be even mopre debilitating. In any case, the great Redeemer has issued no more persistent call than for us to join Him in lifting this burden from the people."

Luke 4:18 teaches us, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised." By investigating the footnotes to this scripture we learn that not only does Christ save those who are alive, but those who are dead and in spiritual bondage. 

We are all trying to become like our Savior. Elder Holland asks us, "What can one man or woman do?" He gives the example of Mary who anointed Jesus's head with expensive burial ointment before his Crucifixion. Judas Iscariot protested against and murmured against her. Jesus said, "Why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work...She hath done what she could." Mother Teresa once said, "What we do is nothing but a drop in the ocean, but if we didn't do it, the ocean would be one drop less than it is." Christianity is obviously not a statistical endeavor. Christ was always concerned about the individual. 

So how might we "do what we can"? asks Elder Holland. He suggests that we learn from King Benjamin in the Book of Mormon. He taught us to cease withholding our means because we see the poor as having brough their misery upon themselves. "Perhaps some have created their own difficulties, but don't the rest of us do exactly the same thing? Isn't that why this compassionate ruler asks, "Are we not all beggars?" Don't we all cry out for help and hope and answers to prayers? Don't we all beg for forgiveness for mistakes we have made and troubles we have caused? Don't we all implore that grace will compensate for our weaknesses, that mercy will triumph over justice at least in our case?"

Let us not forget that oftentimes there are two conditions that go hand in hand: "poor as to things of the world; and also...poor in heart." It is wise to be aware of spiritual, mental and social needs when helping those with temporal needs. Depression is a common challenge that can be easily overlooked. Elder Holland advises that we should pray for those in need, and also observe the law of the fast. There are miracles that will come, both spiritual and temporal, to those who live the law of the fast.

Elder Holland also reminds us that, "We are always expected to help ourselves before we seek help from others. Furthermore, I don't know exactly how each of you shoud fulfill your obligation to those who do not or cannot always help themselves. But I know that God knows, and He will help you in compassionate acts of discipleship if you are conscientiously wanting and praying and looking for ways to keep a commandment He has given us again and again."

Sunday Lesson: Dec 21st

Sis. Kay Bashford taught a beautiful lesson filled with the Spirit in Relief Society today. The lesson was on Chapter 25, The Birth of Jesus Christ: "Good Tidings of Great Joy".  It was a perfect lesson to help us have a Christ centered Christmas.

Each Christmas season we are privilaged to hear from the First Presidency in the Christmas Devotional. Years before the Prophet often sent a letter to members of the Church during Christmas time. In December, 1970 President Joseph Fielding Smith published a letter which said, "I greet you at this Christmas Season, in love and fellowship, and with a prayer that our Eternal Father will look down upon you in mercy and pour out His bounteous blessings upon you. In these times when iniquity abounds, when there are great tribulations on the earth, when there are wars and rumors of wars, we are all in need, as never before, of the guiding and preserving care of the Lord. We need to know that in spite of all the troubles and ills which befall us, still the Lord is governing in the affairs of the earth and that if we keep His commandments and are true and faithful to His laws, He will bless us here and now and reward us with eternal life in His kingdom in due course . . . I know pray that at this Christmas Season, and at all times, we may center our faith in the Son of God and gain for ourselves that peace which passeth understanding."

Peace is something that we all long for. Perhaps over two thousand years ago we all peered over the veil and wondered at the birth of our Savior. What an amazing moment that must have been! We probably all celebrated because it was the moment we had all been waiting for. It was the climax of our Heavenly Father's plan and perhaps we all burst into song and we celebrated that moment. As a Relief Society we were invited to sing the Christmas HymnJoy to The World. What a glorious anthem to celebrate the birth of our Savior. 

Sis. Bashford asked us why, in the pre-mortal existence, we were so excited to see that day arrive? 

1) We knew that Jesus Christ was God's son and was to redeem us from our mistakes.

2) We knew He was that Jehovah who was with Adam, and Abraham, and Moses.

3) We knew He was to be our Savior and Redeemer - we had stood with Him in that great pre-mortal conflict that gave us agency and opportunity.

It is interesting to ponder that Christ had to come to earth just like all of us, as a babe. In Luke 2:52 it reminds us that Christ had to learn line upon line, precept upon precept. Christ "increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man."  John records that "he received not of the fulness at the first," but had to progress "from grace to grace, until he received a fulness." (D&C 93:13).

Making our Christmas holidays and traditions about the Savior is a challenge. Sis. Bashford asked us what kinds of things we can do to remember our Savior during Christmas time. Some of the answers included doing service for others, reading in the scriptures about the Savior's life, and focusing on giving, not receiving, during Christmas. We also taked in depth about the symbols of Christmas and how they relate back to our Savior. Some of them include:

Christmas tree - They point heavenward and are always evergreen which symbolizes eternal life.

Wreath - Eternal life, they are round to symbolize that God has no beginning or end.

Star - Represents the star the wisemen followed to find the Christ child.

Angels - There were angels that announced Jesus' birth.

Bells - These also announced that Jesus had been born.

Christmas Ball ornament - They are traditionally round reminding us of the earth and that there is no beginning or end with God.

Lights - They remind us that Jesus is the Light of the World.

Colors of Christmas - Red and Green represent the blood that was shed for us and eternal life.

Nativity set - Helps us to remember the real and first Christmas and that Christ came for us personally.

Candy Canes - They are red and white; red for the blood Christ shed and white for the purity of the Savior.

We each need to read and ponder the story of the birth of our Savior, His life, and His teachings. We need to let it humble us and help us keep His commandments, honor Him, and Love Him. At Christmastime we need to ponder about how we can make the holiday more about our Savior and our friends and family. We can ask ourselves, "What can I do to place the emphasis of Christ in Christmas?"

Sunday Lesson: Dec 14th

Tiffanie Huntley was so generous to fill in and teach our lesson this past Sunday. The lesson was on the last Chapter in our Joseph Fielding Smith manual,Preparing for the Coming of Our Lord.

After reading President Smith's comment that he was, "praying for the end of the world," it helps put things into perspective for us and help us realize that we need to get to a point in our lives that we look forward to the 2nd coming. President Smith said, "When Christ comes there will be an end to the world...There will not be any war, any turmoil, envying, lying; there will be no wickedness. Men will learn then to love the Lord and keep His commandments, and if they don't they will not stay here....That's what I am praying for. The Lord was praying for the end of the world, and so am I."

There is no need for fear. All of the negative and nonsense will be done away with. There are so many signs that tell us the 2nd coming is near. "Among the signs of the last days was an increase of learning. Daniel was commanded to '...shut up the words, and seal the book (of his prophesy), even to the time of the end: (and in that day) many shall run to and fro,'said he 'and knowledge shall be increased.' (Dan. 12:4) Are not the people "running to and fro" today as they never did before in the history of the world?...Is not knowledge increased? Was there ever a time in the history of the world when so much knowledge was poured out upon the people? But sad to say, the words of Paul are true - the people are "ever learning and never able to come to the knowlege of the truth." (2 Tim. 3:7)

President Smith goes on to say, "Have we not had numerous rumors of wars? [D&C 45:26] Have we not had wars, such wars as the world never saw before? Is there not today commotion among the nations, and are not their rulers troubled? Have not kingdoms been overturned and great changes been made among nations? The whole earth is in commotion. Earthquakes in divers places are reported every day [see D&C 45:33]...Yet the old world goes on about its business paying very little heed to all the Lord has said and to all the signs and indications that have been given. Men harden their hearts and say "...that Christ delayeth his coming until the end of the earth." (D&C 45:26).

President Smith was asked if he knew when the Lord would come. He answered "He will come tomorrow." In D&C 64:23-24 it tells us why. "Behold, now it is called today until the coming of the Son of Man, and verily it is a day of sacrifice, and a day for the tithing of my people; for he that is tithed shall not be burned at his coming....For after today cometh the burning - this is speaking after the manner of the Lord - for verily I say, tomorrow all the proud and they that do wickedly shall be as stubble; and I will burn them up, for I am the Lord of Hosts; and I will not spare any that remain in Babylon." Pres. Smith said, "So the Lord is coming, I say, tomorrow. Then let us be prepared."

The parable of the wheat and the tares has reference to the last days.The wheat and the tares grow up in the same field; they (we) have been for many years. There will come a time for a separation, seperating the righteous from the wicked. Pres. Smith asks us to, "keep the commandments of the Lord, repent of our sins and turn to righteousness. . .There shall be a judgment when Christ comes. . . We shall see ourselves just as we are, and we are to understand with a righteous understanding that the judgments which are meted out to us are just and true, whether we come into the Kingdom of God, to receive these glorious blessings or whether we are banished. . . I plead with the Latter-day Saints to stand firm and faithful in the discharge of every duty, keeping the commandments of the Lord, honoring the priesthood, that we may stand when the Lord comes - whether we be living or dead, it matters not, - to be partakers of this glory."

President Smith warns us to prepare ourselves. "There are many events in the world today which indicate that the great day of the Lord is drawing near when the Redeemer will again appear to set up his kingdom in righteousness preparatory to the millennial reign. In the meantime it is the duty of members of the Church to seek for knowledge and to prepare themselves by study and by faith for the ushering in of that great and glorious day."

Sis. Huntley helped us focus on three things during her lesson:

1. The coming of The Lord is near

2. There will be a judgment

3. We have to prepare

If we give heed to the words of President Smith we will not be fearful of the coming of the Lord, we will look forward to it and prepare ourselves and our families for it.

THANK YOU!!

We are so appreciative to the Relief Society Activities Committee for all of their planning and execution of our RS Christmas Dinner "We Are Not Homeless" held this month. A lot of time and thought goes into these activities by the committee. The dinner was fantastic and the servers were the best I've had. The music and message shared brought the Spirit of Christ to our evening and helped complete the evening. On the same note these activities are only as successful and fun as those that come and participate. Thank you for those that make the time to join with us on these special RS evenings.  Thank you for contributing cookies, and Frito's, talents, presence. So many of you helped the evening be a success. We have such wonderful sisters! We love each of you!!

Relief Society Meeting: Christmas Dinner

RS MEETING: CHRISTMAS DINNER

“WE ARE NOT HOMELESS...

FOR IN HIS LOVE THERE IS A HOME." 

THURSDAY, DEC 11^TH AT 6:30 PM

We invite all RS sisters to join us. This will be a special night to mingle, enjoy a wonderful meal, and be uplifted through work and song. Come and enjoy the spirit of the season.  

A nursery will be provided. Friends and neighbors are welcome to join. Please RSVP through the Evite to help us in our food and nursery preparations.

In the spirit of giving, please bring two dozen cookies (and recipe if you choose) in which we will eat and exchange at the end of the night. If you can, please also bring a small bag of Frito chips to donate. We will be sending these to Brother Koyle's unit in Afghanistan

First Presidency's Christmas Devotional

In case you missed the First Presidency's Christmas Devotional this last Sunday you can watch it here.

Sunday Lesson: Dec 7th

Sis. Lisa Lara taught the lesson today on the topic of Ward Families. She started by asking the question: What are the characteristics of a Family? Some of the them are listed.

Stay together

 Friendship

 Support each other

 Love

 Have fun together

 Learn how to live together, get along

 Loyal

 Stick together through good and bad

 Serve each other

United

What is a Ward Family? – It is the basic ecclesiastical unit to which we all belong as members of the Church of Jesus Christ.

What are the characteristics of a Ward Family? – The characteristics should be the same as a family. It’s not very different than a regular family unit, just bigger.

Romans 12:4-5 says, “For as we have many member in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members of another.” What does this mean? Even though we are individual people, we are all part of the same unit, or group, the body of Christ, or the kingdom of God.

Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley said. “This Church…is far more than a social organization where we gather together to enjoy one another’s company. …It is the kingdom of God in the earth. It behooves us to act in a manner befitting membership in that kingdom.”

Some of us may feel that because they don’t have a traditional family or if they don’t have the same things in common to others that they won’t fit into a ward family very well. Elder Hales said, “All of us can take heart in understanding the great blessings of baptism. When we were baptized, we moved from the world into the kingdom of God. In the kingdom of God, salvation is for everyone in whatever circumstances we may find ourselves; male, female, married, single, with children, childless, rich, poor, young, or old – the possibilities are endless. There are almost as many categories as there are individuals. But we are all children of a loving Heavenly Father who wants us to succeed and return to his presence. In that respect, we are all the same. We are not alone. We are all loved.”

In an Ensign article in 2005 Bro. David Brown also said, “No matter what our circumstances might be, we all have an inherent duty to reach out to fellow members and include them in our circle, making each ward and branch a family. That is why we call each other brothers and sisters.”
Last week Bro. Welling, Bro. Phillips, and Bishop Larson all talked about ways we become closer to our Savior during this Christmas Season. We can have more meaningful prayers and fasting, share our testimony, serve others, and focus on the important things. I would like us to talk about the service part of that equation today, specifically regarding our ward families.

Why is it that so many members say that when they visit wards that aren't their own, they still feel at home?

Bro. David Brown said, “A strong ward family is easy to recognize. The members are warm and friendly, testimonies are borne with conviction, charity abound, activities are well attended, and dedicated home teachers rarely miss a visit. The chapel is not just a place of worship, it is a safe harbor from worldly cares, a place of belonging, of friendship and compassion. It’s a place where people who are different can come together to be as one.”

Three sisters shared of times in their lives when they have felt part of a ward family. It was so wonderful to hear of their experiences and think of our own that we have had.
What are things we can do – individually, to have a strong ward family. To contribute to the body of Christ?

Virginia H. Pearce, former counselor in the YW General Presidency gave 6 purposes to have a strong ward family:

1. Ward Families provide a sense of belonging.
2. A Ward Family can provide the reassurance of listening ears. A perfect time for this to happen is while we Visit Teach each other.
3. Ward Families provide encouragement.
4. Ward Families are a refuge.
5. Ward families provide ways for us to contribute, to serve each other.
6. A Ward Family provides a laboratory to learn and practice the gospel.

Pres. Ezra Taft Benson said, “Men and women who turn their lives over to God will discover that He can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour out peace.”

As we strengthen ourselves and really become a part of our ward family, the love of Christ will enter into our lives more abundantly and we will become more like our Savior.

December Newsletter

Presidency Message by Jan Welling
With our baby due any day now I have been ‘nesting’ as they say. I’ve been trying to get my to do list done before this little bundle of joy comes. On that list has been Christmas. It is such an exciting time of year for so many reasons. As I have been getting ready for Christmas I have been thinking how I can help my family be sure to remember why we celebrate Christmas. It is so easy to feel overwhelmed with all of the shopping and the overscheduled calendar that we can forget who we should be focusing on and emulating – Jesus Christ.

On the way home from church this week I had to smile when my eight year old asked if I ever heard of the following scripture as he read, Mosiah 2:17 And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God. I thought, what a wonderful scripture year round, but especially for Christmastime. What is the perfect gift we can give? It isn’t always a material gift. “The greatest gift we can give is the gift of doing to others as He would do for them.” – Pres. Henry B. Eyring

As Christmas approaches my hope for my family and yours is that we can find ways to give service to others. Let us make time each day to talk about Jesus Christ, both his humble birth and life. As we learn more of him and how he lived may we do as he did, love and serve those around us. He is a gift to us and has given us the greatest gift. Let us give him a gift in return. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. “Each act of kindness to anyone becomes a kindness to the Savior because He loves all of Heavenly Father’s children.” – Pres. Henry B. Eyring

"It is well to remember that he who gives money gives much, he who gives time gives more, but he who gives of himself gives all. Let this be the description of our Christmas gifts."   – President Thomas S. Monson

Love, Marty, Lisa, Jan, Debbie, & Jenny

Birthdays
1 Tammy Rose
9 Deanna Sumner
10 Mackenzie Rabideau
11 Jennifer Fulton
14 Mindy Cornelsen
14 Terry Maupin
16 Mary Khliu
16 Loretta Wagner
17 Sue Schilling
18 Makayla Denton
19 Jessica Humrich
23 Lacee (Gibbs) Schenck
31 Mary Ann Bashford
31 Terisa Eshbaugh

Lesson Schedule
Dec 7 Lesson by Lisa Lara
Dec 14 #26 “Preparing for the Coming of Our Lord” taught by Kristen Tanner
Dec 21 #25 “The Birth of Jesus Christ…” taught by Kay Bashford
Dec 28 “Are we not all Beggars” by Elder Holland taught by Jacquelyn Brady

Upcoming Events
Dec 11 RS Meeting Christmas Party 6:30 pm “We are Not Homeless” at the Quail building

Other Opportunities
Dec 4 Book Club at 7pm at Kyle Koyle's "I am Malala: The girl who stood up for education…"
Dec 7 First Presidency Christmas Devotional
Dec 9 Lunch Bunch at 11 am at Jackie Milonas’ home
Dec 13 Ward Christmas Party at the Alkire building 5:30 Santa 6:00 Dinner/Program
Dec 14 Stake Musical Fireside
Thursdays 9:30 am playgroup
Saturdays 8 am pickup basketball
Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics

Sunday Lesson: Nov 30th

We were privileged to hear from all three members of our bishopric today during 3rd hour. They all shared with us suggestions on what we can do to make a more meaningful Christmas season.

Bro. Welling started off by asking us the question, "How can we increase our spirituality during this Christmas season?" He shared with us a scripture in James 2:14-18 which says, "What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?" In other words, it takes work to find peace and receive the blessings that are promised us. There are three things we can add to our lives to increase our spirituality:

1) Meaningful prayer - In the bible dictionary it says "the object of prayer is not to change the will of God, but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant, but that are made conditional on our asking for them. Blessings require some work or effort on our part before we can obtain them. Prayer is a form of work, and is an appointed means for obtaining the highest of all blessings."

2) Meaningful fasting - Make sure there is a purpose in your fast.
3) Testimony - As yourself who needs to hear my testimony this season? They need to know your beliefs on the Savior.

Bro. Phillips talked about service. He shared some wonderful examples of service that was given to him, and things that he has been involved in recently, that have made an impact on our lives. He said he would add #4 to Brother Welling's list and put service on the bottom. In Matthew 25:35-45 it reminds us that we have been commanded to clothe the naked, feed the hungry, help the homeless, etc. In verse 40 it says, "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." Bro. Phillips taught us that we need to be a 'savior' to those who need us. How can we fulfill this scripture? He suggests that we:
1) Think of someone who has served you and then
2) Think of someone who needs you and reach out. Take with you the Spirit of Christ as you serve.
In Matthew 16:24-25 the Savior teaches us, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."

Bishop Larsen was the last to talk to us. He asked the question, "What comes with the Holiday season?" We made two lists, on on the left side of the chalkboard, and one on the right. The things that are important were included on the right (birth of our Savior, family, traditions, etc.) and those not so important things were on the left (expenses, stress, etc.). The Bishop encouraged us to try and focus on the important things, instead of using our precious time on the not so important things. He reminded us that as parents we want everything that we have and more for our own children. Our Heavenly Father wants the same good things for us. Everything that He has and more. If we focus on the good side of the list of Christmas, we can have those things. December is a wonderful time to make change in our lives. Focusing on the things that are important, the things that Bro. Welling and Phillips talked about, will be what makes our Christmas season wonderful.

Thankful - For You!

We would like to thank each and everyone of you!!  We are so grateful to you for all the small and large acts of service you give. Many of those services go unseen by many. Your hearts are so good! We are blessed to serve with you and know you. We are grateful for your testimonies, examples, kind words, and efforts you make to help those around you. More importantly your Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ thank you for all that you do. Keep up the good works and remember how much you are loved!!

Just A Thought

Thanksgiving Daily

The more often we see the things around us, the more they become invisible to us. Learn how you can live in thanksgiving daily by noticing the wonders and beauties of this world.

Talks on Gratitude

THE DIVINE GIFT OF GRATITUDE

LIVE IN THANKSGIVING DAILY

GRATITUDE AND THANKSGIVING

GRATITUDE

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Announcements

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

BOOK CLUB - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4^th AT 7:00 PM

Kyle Koyle’s home

We will be discussing our Nov book. The book is “I am Malala: The girl who stood up for education…” You can come even if you haven’t read it.

LUNCH BUNCH - TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9^TH AT 11:00 AM.

Jackie Milonas home. Everyone is invited.

RS MEETING: CHRISTMAS DINNER

“WE ARE NOT HOMELESS...

FOR IN HIS LOVE THERE IS A HOME." 

THURSDAY, DEC 11^TH AT 6:30 PM

We invite all RS sisters to join us. This will be a special night to mingle, enjoy a wonderful meal, and be uplifted through work and song. Come and enjoy the spirit of the season.  

A nursery will be provided. Friends and neighbors are welcome to join. Please RSVP through the Evite to help us in our food and nursery preparations.

In the spirit of giving, please bring two dozen cookies (and recipe if you choose) in which we will eat and exchange at the end of the night. If you can, please also bring a small bag of Frito chips to donate. We will be sending these to Brother Koyle's unit in Afghanistan.

WARD CHRISTMAS PARTY

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13^TH 5:30 PM AT THE ALKIRE BUILDING

WARD TEMPLE DAY

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17TH
Please Note: The Denver Temple will experience and extended closure in Jan and Feb of 2015. Certain areas of the temple will be renovated to reflect the current temple standards and to attend to the regular temple maintenance. The temple will be closed from Monday Jan 19th through Monday Feb 23rd, a total of five weeks. The temple will reopen on Tuesday Feb 24th 2015.

Ward Choir Practice meets directly after church on Sundays in the RS room from 12:05 - 1:00 pm.

Check out the bulletin board outside the RS for announcements and activities. Also, a new tab has been added to the blog - Recipes. Let a member of the presidency know if you have something you would like to add to it.

Sunday Lesson: Nov 23rd

Our Sunday lesson was given by Jacquelyn Brady on the recent conference talk, Stay in the Boat and Hold On!, by Elder M. Russell Ballard. Elder Ballard relates an experience of a friend who went river rafting. The were to go through miles of white-water rapids that are very dangerous. As they were preparing for their journey, their guide reviewed 3 importants rules to ensure their safety: "Rule number one: stay in the boat! Rule number two: always wear a life jacket! Rule number three: always hold on with both hands!" He then said again, with even more emphasis, "Above all, remember rule number one: stay in the boat!"

President Brigham Young often refered to the gospel and 'The Old Ship Zion'. Presidnet Young said, "We are on the old ship Zion...{God} is at the helm and will stay there...He dictates, guides and directs. If the people will have implicit confidence in their God, never forsake their covenants nor their god, He will guide us right."

So how do we stay on the Old Ship Zion? Elder Ballard says this, "Here is how. We need to experience a continuing conversion by increasing our faith in Jesus Christ and our faithfulness to His gospel throughout our lives - not just once but regularly....The experienced river guides today can be likened to the Church's apostles and prophet and inspired local priesthood and auxiliary leaders. They help us arrive safely to our final destination."

We also cannot forget about rules two and three: always wear a life jacket, and hold on with both hands. "The words of the Lord are found in the scriptures and the teachings of the apostles and prophets. They provide us counsel and direction that, when followed, will act like a spiritual life jacket and will help us know how to hold on with both hands." Elder Ballard urges us to focus on studying, living, and loving the doctrine of Christ. He says, "we need to stay focused on these simple things, and avoid becoming distracted."

"President Brigham Young said that he worried about people losing their way when they were being blessed - when life was good: 'It is in calm weather, when the old ship of Zion is sailing with a gentle breeze, when all is quiet on deck, that some of the brethren want to go out in the whaling boats to have...a swim, and some get drowned, others drifted away, and others yet again get back to the ship. Let us stick to the old ship and she will carry us {safely} into the harbor; you need not be concerned'."

If we keep our focus on the Lord, we are promised a blessing beyond comparison. In 2 Nephi 31;20 it says, "Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life."

Elder Ballard pleads with us, "Brothers and sisters, stay in the boat, use your life jackets, and hold on with both hands. Avoid distractions! And if any one of you have fallen out of the boat, we will seek you, find you, minister to you, and pull you safely back onto the Old Ship Zion, where God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ are at the help and will guide us right."

Patterns of Light

THE LIGHT OF CHRIST

DISCERNING LIGHT

SPIRIT OF REVELATION

Just A Thought

Sunday Lesson: Nov 16th

Proclaiming the Gospel to the World, Chp. 21, was our lesson this past Sunday. Sis. Kay Bashford really helped us all to engage ourselves and helped us to think of missionary work in a little different light.

Not too long ago, just a few generations, it was very common for young newly married men to be called as missionaries. The same happened to President Joseph Fielding Smith. Elder Smith served in England and wrote letters to his new bride, always filled with love and testimony. In one Elder Smith's letters he wrote, "I know that the work I have been called to do is the work of God or I would not stay here one minute, no, I would not have left home. But I know our happiness is dependent upon my faithfulness whie I am here. I should be willing to do this much for the love of mankind when our Savior could suffer as He did for us." Do we feel the same as President Smith? If we have this same testimony and belief, it should motivate us to be better missionaries.

President Smith" was not able to make one convert, di not have opportunity to perform one baptism, although he did confirm one convert." Even though Elder Smith did not see the results of his labors, "he found comfort in knowing that he was doing the Lord's will and that  he was helping prepare people who might receive the gospel later in their lives."

Sis. Bashford pointed out to us that we all have the blessing of the restored gospel in our lives. What are the things we have because of the church? Some of these things include temples, the Plan of Salvation, the authority of God on the earth (Priesthood), ordinances, a living prophet, and knowledge of our Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ. These truths should be, need to be, shared with all those around us. President Smith said, "The promised day is now dawning. This is the appointed time for the preaching of the gospel in all the world and for the building up of the Lord's kingdom in every nation. There are good and upright people in all nations who will respond to the truth....The gospel is for all people, and the Lord expects those who receive it to live its truths and to offer them to those of their own nation and tongue....I believe that our success in the world depends largely upon the attitude of the Saints. Your responsibility is to be living witnesses of the truth and divinity of the work."

In Mosiah 28:3 we learn about the feelings of the Sons of Mosiah, who were great missionaries. They were to teach the gospel to their enemies, the Lamanites. "Now they were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature, for they could not bear that any human should perish; yea, even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble."

Many of us get nervous and worried about how to talk to others about the gospel. We need to talk to people in a matter of fact way. If we can get more comfortable about exposing people to our feelings and beliefs then that is the first step. Just like President Smith's mission was all about planting seeds, that's what we need to do, start planting seeds, In Preach My Gospel it says, "Your success is measured primarily by your commitment to help others become members of the Savior's church and enjoy the presence of the Holy Ghost, not by the number of converts." If our hearts are in the right place, and we can learn how to talk more freely and openly about our beliefs, the rest will start to fall into place.

Here are some things we can do to be a better missionary:

Let the Spirit testify to people through you.

Love others and desire their salvation.

Live worthy of the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
Develop Christlike attributes.

Help build up our ward by working where you are assigned.

Pray to recognize someone who is ready to hear about the gospel.

We concluded our lesson time by role playing missionaries and a potential investigator. We were paired with sisters that we probably normally wouldn't be paired with, and some amazing conversations were had. This was a good way to practice being a missionary, or an investigator, and start thinking about ways we can talk to people about the beautiful truths of the gospel. The Savior loves all of us, we are all God's children, and He wants us all to return to Him. Let us be excited about this marvelous work and do our part that we have covenanted to do.

You can read the entire lesson from the manual HERE.

FHE Lesson: Help Teach Children about Pornography

Some parents may feel uncomfortable discussing sexual intimacy and pornography with their children, or they may not feel like it is necessary until children are much older.

Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve counseled, “Parents, be aware that the addiction of pornography can begin with youth at a very early age. Take preventative action to avoid that tragedy.” 

The lessons include basic doctrines and principles about the sacredness of the body, sexual intimacy, following the Spirit, choosing good media, appropriate action steps for when a child sees pornography, and repentance.  They also include age-specific activities parents can select based on the needs of their family.

The lessons are designed for a family home evening setting, but the references and activities can be used in a variety of situations.

Sister Cheryl Esplin, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, said, “Sometimes the most powerful way to teach our children to understand a doctrine is to teach in the context of what they are experiencing right at that moment. These moments are spontaneous and unplanned and happen in the normal flow of family life. They come and go quickly, so we need to be alert and recognize a teaching moment when our children come to us with a question or worry.” 

While the doctrinal foundation will be taught during family home evening, parents and children can return to these materials frequently in personal study and one-on-one interactions to help youth deal with the pervasive effects of pornography.

The following lessons can be accessed on the overcomingpornography.org website:

   • My Body Is from God

   • The Spirit Can Help Me Choose Good Media

   • What Should I Do If I See Pornography?

   • The Savior Desires to Forgive and Heal the Wounds of Pornography

The lessons are not intended to be taught in a particular order, nor is it expected that all of the content will be shared in a single family home evening lesson. Rather, parents can counsel together and with the Lord on which principles and activities will be most beneficial to their family.

SEE ARTICLE HERE

Just A Thought

Sunday Lesson: Nov 9th

This past Sunday's lesson was Chp. 20, Love and Concern for All Our Father's Children. Sis. Tiffanie Huntley was so willing to be a guest teacher and did a wonderful job. She started the lesson by asking us all, "What does it mean to love your neighbor?" There were varied responses from being friendly and nice to the people who live close to you, to saying hello to people at the grocery store. 

President Joseph Fielding Smith was probably one of the kindest men that ever lived. At the beginning of the chapter there are two sweet stories about how he showed kindness. The first is about a boy who was at a conference meeting and was asked to give up his seat right before the meeting was to start. Pres. Smith saw what happened and had the boy come up to the stand. He asked him what had happend, and then shared his own seat with him during the conference. The other story was about a missionary that was about to depart on his mission to eastern Canada. Pres. Smith asked him if he had a suitable coat to stay warm in. The missionary told him that he didn't. Pres. Smith took him across the street to the department store and bought him the warmest coat in stock.

Pres. Smith said, "I think if all men knew and understood who they are, and were aware of the divine source from whence they came, and of the infinite potential that is part of their inheritance, they would have feelings of kindness and kinship for each other that would change their whole way of living and bring peace on earth."

Sis. Huntley wanted to share a Mormon Message, but was unable to do so. Here is the link to that powerful message that teaches us we should care for all people, for we are all sons and daughters of God. The Civility Experiment 

To go along with the video, President Smith also taught, "I believe it is our solemn duty to love one another, to believe in each other, to have faith in each other, that it is our duty to overlook the faults and the failings of each other, and not to magnify them in our own eyes nor before the eyes of the world."

Sis. Huntley asks us "Why is it so difficult to have Christ like love for one another?" It is difficult because we must live among those who do not share our beliefs and values and covenant obligations. In His great Intercessory Prayer, offered just before His Crucifixion, Jesus prayed for His followers: “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world” (John 17:14). Then, to the Father He pleaded, “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil” (verse 15).

There is a wonderful story in the manual about a horse that belonged to the Smith family while Pres. Smith was growing up. The horse would somehow turn the water tap on and leave it running all night long. Pres. Smith and his father tried everything in their power to keep her tied up, but it seemed the horse was almost smarter than they. Pres. Smith said of the horse, "It doesn't mean that she was bad, because she wasn't. Father wasn't about to sell or trade her, because she had so many other good qualities that made up for this one little fault." That same horse was so reliable and dependable at pulling the buggy. She was the horse that always took Pres. Smith and his mother on important house calls, many times in the middle of the night, because Pres. Smith's mother was a midwife. Often while Pres. Smith's mother was attending to the birth of a baby, he would wait in the buggy for his mother with the horse keeping him company. He said, "This experience with this horse was very good for me, because early in life I had to learn to love and appreciate her for herself. She was a wonderful horse with only a couple of bad habits. People are a lot the same way. None of us is perfect; yet each of us is trying to become perfect, even as our Father in heaven. We need to appreciate and love people for themselves."

Sis. Huntley did a wonderful job at reminding us that the second great commandment is to love our neighbors as ourselves. We need to remember that not only is it the nice thing to do when we are kind to one another, but it is also a commandment. We are all God's children, which means we are all brothers and sisters. To become more like our Savior we should treat others the way He would.