President Henry B. Eyring, 1st Counselor in the First Presidency
President Eyring prayed about what to speak about and received an answer: trust in the Lord. God sends messengers and messages to His children to build trust in them so they will obey. In the premortal life, those who chose not to come to earth lacked trust in God. Jonah, Peter, and Nephi are scriptural examples of men who showed trust in the Lord. Trust can build families (personal story of paying off their mortgage after hearing the counsel of the prophet) and trust can bless communities (story of Norwegian woman in Great Depression placing clothes on her porch). The Lord places people in positions who will help. We show trust when we listen with real intent and then go and do.
Elder Boyd K. Packer, of the Quorum of the Twelve
The youth live in a time of great confusion. It has been 15 years since the Family Proclamation was given and things have disintegrated more. But God still intends for us to be happy. We have our agency, which Satan cannot forcefully take from us. The power of procreation is important and should be shared only between a husband and wife. Satan seeks to degrade us and pornography is like a plague. Some say unnatural behavior is okay, or that we can vote to alter what is right. But we cannot change God's moral standards. D&C 81: 10. Repentance and forgiveness are stronger than Satan; angels will coach you as you try to forgo sin.
Elder Jay E. Jensen, of the Seventy
Elder Jensen prayed for his own testimony while on his mission. The Holy Ghost helped him know God and Christ are real. The roles of the Holy Ghost include teach and testify, identifies what's good, and leads one to do good. While on a mission in Argentina his grandson died and he was comforted by the Holy Ghost. They wanted to be with family, but couldn't. President Hinckley taught that the Jesus Christ, the Holy Ghost, Book of Mormon, and the restoration are the four cornerstones of our faith. He compares Joseph Smith to Lehi.
Mary N. Cook, 1st Counselor in the Young Women Presidency
Sister Cook has a new granddaughter named Ruby. Her mother is starting today to teach her to be righteous. She is doing this by: first, being an example in faith (story of Lucy Mack Smith setting faithful example, which Joseph Smith followed) and second, being an example in purity (For the Strength of Youth Pamphlet teaches what we need to know, especially in relation to media and technology and dress). Sister Cook tells of the example of her Aunt Carma Cutler.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks, of the Quorum of the Twelve
We have two lines of communication with God:
1. Personal prayer: no mortal intermediary is required; it is through the Holy Spirit and is an essential part of God's plan because it allows each of us to gain a personal witness. Prayer is dependent on our personal worthiness and is important for personal and family guidance. Two warnings regarding prayer include:
a) In its fullness prayer is not independent of the priesthood line of communication. The Gift of the Holy Ghost and the sacrament both require priesthood.
b) One cannot communicate reliably through prayer if s/he is disobedient or out of harmony with the priesthood line.
2. Priesthood: is principally there to guide the Church and has additional intermediaries of Jesus Christ, the Church, and leaders. the restored priesthood is at the heart of the priesthood line, which is the same line spoken to us today. Living prophets hold the keys to the priesthood. Do not underestimate the importance of the Church or its blessings. Organized religion is essential for the perfecting of the saints. Two warnings regarding priesthood include:
a) Priesthood doesn't supersede prayer; do not rely on others in the priesthood line for your testimony.
b) One can't function fully or properly in the priesthood if not worthy or obedient.
Both prayer and priesthood are essential to God's plan (Moses 1:39). Jethro taught Moses to teach the people to use both lines of communication.
President Thomas S. Monson
President Monson's thoughts have turned to Christ and service. In Luke 17 is the story of the 10 lepers. Do we remember to give thanks for the blessings we receive? Gratitude helps us recognize our blessings. We should walk with the spirit of thanksgiving. President Monson tells the story of the feeding of 4,000; this miracle occurred after Christ gave thanks for the little food they did have. We should focus on our blessing instead of what we lack. Gratitude is a divine principle taught in the scriptures. We can lift ourselves by cultivating an attitude of gratitude. It is the greatest of all virtues and the parent of other virtues. A prayerful life is the key to developing gratitude. Do not take for granted those things that money cannot buy, especially people and loved ones. Frequently express love and gratitude to family. President Monson tells the story of Gordon Green and how the family took inventory of their farm on Thanksgiving. To live with gratitude in the heart is to touch heaven.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
General Conference Notes: Saturday Afternoon Session
Note: The choir for this session was called a "family choir" from two different cities in Utah.
Elder Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency
Sustaining of Church Officers
Elder Robert D. Hales, of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles
Elder Hales spoke on agency. The LDS view of the word 'agency' is unusual; it means the ability to choose to act with responsibility for our actions. Agency is a key component in the Plan of Salvation. Satan wanted to take away our agency, but his plan was turned down. One-third of the host of heaven chose to follow Satan. Because we chose to follow Christ we came to earth and still must exercise our agency, continue to choose to follow Christ. Our opportunities diminish when we don't choose the right. Christ chose to atone for our sins. Story about varnishing the floor and ending up stuck in the corner. The world teaches many falsehoods about agency, much like the story of Saul in the scriptures.
Elder Quentin L. Cook, of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles
Elder Cook tells of being named after a British radio announcer during the WWII bombing days in Britain. They cities had to black out the light to make it safer. "By the light of Christ all mankind are saved." Our primary effort is to seek out the light and to black out those things (i.e., pornography) that assualt morality. If we do not blackout such things, do not be surprised if our peace in the home is shattered. Live the gospel in the home; you will be protected if you do so. Be a source of light in your community. There has always been an ongoing battle between church-goers and secular people. No one's voice should be eliminated. All have the light of Christ to some degree. We should behave with honesty (story of person whose bishop sent reimbursement for office supplies stolen) and treat others as our brothers and sisters (story of Wilbur Force and "Amazing Grace"). Preserve light, hope, and morality in our society.
Bishop Richard C. Edgely, 1st Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric
We can choose how we react to challenges/attacks; choose faith. Faith is a choice because it requires effort. In Alma 32 there are many action words used to describe how to grow faith. Bishop Edgely bears testimony of the atonement and says that he bridges what he doesn't know with his faith. At that point we can have the "perfect faith," which Alma mentions. Let us choose faith. If our testimony is weak, do not throw out the seed. There will always be a trial of faith. Bishop Edgely has never seen a mountian moved because of faith, but he has seen a mountain of doubt removed, a mountain of sin removed, and a mountain of pain removed because of faith.
Elder Kevin R. Duncan, of the Seventy
The winter after the Saints arrived in the Salt Lake valley was very challenging and many did not want to stay. Gold had been discovered in California and some did not feel the desert climate would be good for growing crops. But Brigham Young said, "Here we will stay." Some had faith while others were skeptical. Protection in this life comes from following the living prophet. We would do well to investigate what the Lord tells us through the prophets (Amos 3:7). Our very salvation hangs in the balance in doing so. Elder Duncan repeats the same 14 principles by Ezra Taft Benson as quoted by Elder Costa in the Saturday morning session.
Gerrit W. Gong, of the Seventy
Elder Gong tells his family history of becoming members of the Church. His parents were married three times: once in a traditional Chinese ceremony for family; once in a civil ceremony for friends; and once in the temple. The temple mirrors remind us of eternity and our divine nature and destiny. Forever families can be seen in temple mirrors. The eternity of family relationships is depicted there. The power is in Christ to save us.
Elder Neil L. Andersen, of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles
No one is left immune from the influences of the world. In the scriptures there is an account of some who left off following the Savior; then he asked his disciples, "Will ye also go away?" The road to discipleship is not for the faint of heart. Refining experiences will deepen our testimony. Two warning words we should watch for are 'offended' and 'ashamed.' Hundreds of things could offend us at church. Do not let your injured spirit protect your personal ego (story of Frederick G. Williams). In Lehi's vision of the tree of life there were those who partook of the fruit and were then ashamed. We can all love Christ (even without obeying); but Christ taught, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." Choose not to be offended or ashamed.
Richard G. Scott, of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles
Our faith can have far-reaching effects if it is centered on Jesus Christ. Faith is the building block used to create galaxies, as well as quarks. We need to have faith in the future--that we can overcome. Faith builds character. The more your character is fortified, the better you can exercise your faith. Character and faith go hand-in-hand. A righteous character is a most valuable object to own. Five principles of faith include:
1. Trust in God
2. Obedience to His commandments
3. Sensitivity to promptings of the Holy Ghost
4. Implementation of these promptings
5. Patience
Elder Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency
Sustaining of Church Officers
Elder Robert D. Hales, of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles
Elder Hales spoke on agency. The LDS view of the word 'agency' is unusual; it means the ability to choose to act with responsibility for our actions. Agency is a key component in the Plan of Salvation. Satan wanted to take away our agency, but his plan was turned down. One-third of the host of heaven chose to follow Satan. Because we chose to follow Christ we came to earth and still must exercise our agency, continue to choose to follow Christ. Our opportunities diminish when we don't choose the right. Christ chose to atone for our sins. Story about varnishing the floor and ending up stuck in the corner. The world teaches many falsehoods about agency, much like the story of Saul in the scriptures.
Elder Quentin L. Cook, of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles
Elder Cook tells of being named after a British radio announcer during the WWII bombing days in Britain. They cities had to black out the light to make it safer. "By the light of Christ all mankind are saved." Our primary effort is to seek out the light and to black out those things (i.e., pornography) that assualt morality. If we do not blackout such things, do not be surprised if our peace in the home is shattered. Live the gospel in the home; you will be protected if you do so. Be a source of light in your community. There has always been an ongoing battle between church-goers and secular people. No one's voice should be eliminated. All have the light of Christ to some degree. We should behave with honesty (story of person whose bishop sent reimbursement for office supplies stolen) and treat others as our brothers and sisters (story of Wilbur Force and "Amazing Grace"). Preserve light, hope, and morality in our society.
Bishop Richard C. Edgely, 1st Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric
We can choose how we react to challenges/attacks; choose faith. Faith is a choice because it requires effort. In Alma 32 there are many action words used to describe how to grow faith. Bishop Edgely bears testimony of the atonement and says that he bridges what he doesn't know with his faith. At that point we can have the "perfect faith," which Alma mentions. Let us choose faith. If our testimony is weak, do not throw out the seed. There will always be a trial of faith. Bishop Edgely has never seen a mountian moved because of faith, but he has seen a mountain of doubt removed, a mountain of sin removed, and a mountain of pain removed because of faith.
Elder Kevin R. Duncan, of the Seventy
The winter after the Saints arrived in the Salt Lake valley was very challenging and many did not want to stay. Gold had been discovered in California and some did not feel the desert climate would be good for growing crops. But Brigham Young said, "Here we will stay." Some had faith while others were skeptical. Protection in this life comes from following the living prophet. We would do well to investigate what the Lord tells us through the prophets (Amos 3:7). Our very salvation hangs in the balance in doing so. Elder Duncan repeats the same 14 principles by Ezra Taft Benson as quoted by Elder Costa in the Saturday morning session.
Gerrit W. Gong, of the Seventy
Elder Gong tells his family history of becoming members of the Church. His parents were married three times: once in a traditional Chinese ceremony for family; once in a civil ceremony for friends; and once in the temple. The temple mirrors remind us of eternity and our divine nature and destiny. Forever families can be seen in temple mirrors. The eternity of family relationships is depicted there. The power is in Christ to save us.
Elder Neil L. Andersen, of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles
No one is left immune from the influences of the world. In the scriptures there is an account of some who left off following the Savior; then he asked his disciples, "Will ye also go away?" The road to discipleship is not for the faint of heart. Refining experiences will deepen our testimony. Two warning words we should watch for are 'offended' and 'ashamed.' Hundreds of things could offend us at church. Do not let your injured spirit protect your personal ego (story of Frederick G. Williams). In Lehi's vision of the tree of life there were those who partook of the fruit and were then ashamed. We can all love Christ (even without obeying); but Christ taught, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." Choose not to be offended or ashamed.
Richard G. Scott, of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles
Our faith can have far-reaching effects if it is centered on Jesus Christ. Faith is the building block used to create galaxies, as well as quarks. We need to have faith in the future--that we can overcome. Faith builds character. The more your character is fortified, the better you can exercise your faith. Character and faith go hand-in-hand. A righteous character is a most valuable object to own. Five principles of faith include:
1. Trust in God
2. Obedience to His commandments
3. Sensitivity to promptings of the Holy Ghost
4. Implementation of these promptings
5. Patience
Saturday, October 2, 2010
General Conference Notes: Saturday Morning Session
President Thomas S. Monson
President Monson spoke briefly to start the conference and announced the rededication of the Laie, Hawaii temple next month. He also announced five new temples to be built (Lisbon, Indianapolis, Hartford, Tijuana, and an additional one in the Philippines). After this announcement, President Monson encouraged members of the church to do missionary work. He reiterated the idea that all worthy young men should serve a mission and should keep themselves pure, clean, worthy, and healthy to do so. The church also needs "many, many more" senior couples.
President Jeffrey R. Holland, of the Quorum of the 12
President Holland spoke on gratitude for faithful members of the Church. The Church draws strength from the faith and devotion of its members. He specifically thanks YW and YM leaders, and selfless parents. President Holland tells the story of his parents sacrificing to pay for his expensive mission; his mother took a job and his father worked extra hours. His parents never told him while he was serving that they were not using his mission funds to pay for the mission. They sacrificed for his welfare. President Holland pledges to be better, more charitable and true.
Rosemary M. Wixom, Primary General President
Sister Wixom started her talk relaying the story of Joseph Smith needing bone surgery as a child. He was brave and simply asked for his father to hold him during the ordeal. As members of the church we need to reach out to the children so we can help them through their challenges and help anchor them to the gospel. It is our opportunity to teach them the Plan of Salvation. Reading the scriptures daily with the children is a big part of this; she relates the story of a young family reading the Book of Mormon together, three verses a day to begin with. The world will teach our children if we do not teach them. Prayer is another important principle to teach the children. A story of a mother having her children pray while driving in a snow storm illustrates this point.
Claudio R. M. Costa, of the Seventy
President Costa is a convert and testifies of the importance of having a living prophet on the earth (Amos 3:7). He tells of hearing President Ezra Taft Benson speak to students at BYU about prophets and repeats President Benson's 14 points:
1. The prophet is the only man who speaks for the Lord in everything.
2. The living prophet is more vital to us than the standard works.
3. The living prophet is more important to us than a dead prophet.
4. The prophet will never lead the Church astray.
5. The prophet is not required to have any particular earthly training or credentials to speak on any subject or act on any matter at any time.
6. The prophet does not have to say "Thus saith the Lord" to give us scripture.
7. The prophet tells us what we need to know, not always what we want to know.
8. The prophet is not limited by men's reasoning.
9. The prophet can receive revelation on any matter--temporal or spiritual.
10. The prophet may be involved in civic matters.
11. The two groups who have the greatest difficulty in following the prophet are the proud who are learned and the proud who are rich.
12. The prophet will not necessarily be popular with the world or the worldly.
13. The prophet and his counselors make up the First Presidency--the highest quorum in the Church.
14. The prophet and the presidency--the living prophet and the first presidency--follow them and be blessed; reject them and suffer.
President David M. McConkie, 1st Couns. Sunday School
A teacher's attitude is what matters in the teaching process. A Teacher's attitude and spirit are more important than their experience. President McConkie tells a story about a Danish immigrant teaching 15 year old boys; the language barrier was a challenge, but he changed their lives nonetheless. A good teacher:
1. Immerses students in the scriptures
2. Applies lessons to real life
3. Seeks heaven's help
4. Acts according to promptings of the spirit
Elder D. Todd Christofferson, of the Quorum of the 12
Elder Christofferson talks about living a consecrated life and names five elements of doing so:
1. Consecrated living requires purity. We need to submit to all that God may require of us.
2. A consecrated life is one of labor. Wholesome recreation is the companion of work.
3. Consecrated living respects the physical body. We should not desecrate our bodies with tattoos, drugs, sexual impurity, etc.
4. Consecrated living requires service. We should cultivate a listening ear to give service (story about his grandfather shearing sheep and then serving a mission).
5. A cultivated life is a life of integrity. We are accountable to God.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, of the First Presidency
In times of challenge we need to slow down and focus on the essentials. It is easy to get too busy. Over scheduling your day is a vice that turns ambition into an albatross around your neck. "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" (DaVinci). Ball point pens do not work in outer space story (use pencil instead). Become great by mastering the fundamentals, which include:
1. Our relationship with God. Spend time alone with Him; repent.
2. Relationships with family members. Love for family is spelled T-I-M-E.
3. Relationships with fellowmen. Be sensitive to the needs of others and give service.
4. Ourselves. Learn to see yourself as God sees you.
Note: President Uchtdorf lost his voice for about a minute in the middle of his talk.
President Monson spoke briefly to start the conference and announced the rededication of the Laie, Hawaii temple next month. He also announced five new temples to be built (Lisbon, Indianapolis, Hartford, Tijuana, and an additional one in the Philippines). After this announcement, President Monson encouraged members of the church to do missionary work. He reiterated the idea that all worthy young men should serve a mission and should keep themselves pure, clean, worthy, and healthy to do so. The church also needs "many, many more" senior couples.
President Jeffrey R. Holland, of the Quorum of the 12
President Holland spoke on gratitude for faithful members of the Church. The Church draws strength from the faith and devotion of its members. He specifically thanks YW and YM leaders, and selfless parents. President Holland tells the story of his parents sacrificing to pay for his expensive mission; his mother took a job and his father worked extra hours. His parents never told him while he was serving that they were not using his mission funds to pay for the mission. They sacrificed for his welfare. President Holland pledges to be better, more charitable and true.
Rosemary M. Wixom, Primary General President
Sister Wixom started her talk relaying the story of Joseph Smith needing bone surgery as a child. He was brave and simply asked for his father to hold him during the ordeal. As members of the church we need to reach out to the children so we can help them through their challenges and help anchor them to the gospel. It is our opportunity to teach them the Plan of Salvation. Reading the scriptures daily with the children is a big part of this; she relates the story of a young family reading the Book of Mormon together, three verses a day to begin with. The world will teach our children if we do not teach them. Prayer is another important principle to teach the children. A story of a mother having her children pray while driving in a snow storm illustrates this point.
Claudio R. M. Costa, of the Seventy
President Costa is a convert and testifies of the importance of having a living prophet on the earth (Amos 3:7). He tells of hearing President Ezra Taft Benson speak to students at BYU about prophets and repeats President Benson's 14 points:
1. The prophet is the only man who speaks for the Lord in everything.
2. The living prophet is more vital to us than the standard works.
3. The living prophet is more important to us than a dead prophet.
4. The prophet will never lead the Church astray.
5. The prophet is not required to have any particular earthly training or credentials to speak on any subject or act on any matter at any time.
6. The prophet does not have to say "Thus saith the Lord" to give us scripture.
7. The prophet tells us what we need to know, not always what we want to know.
8. The prophet is not limited by men's reasoning.
9. The prophet can receive revelation on any matter--temporal or spiritual.
10. The prophet may be involved in civic matters.
11. The two groups who have the greatest difficulty in following the prophet are the proud who are learned and the proud who are rich.
12. The prophet will not necessarily be popular with the world or the worldly.
13. The prophet and his counselors make up the First Presidency--the highest quorum in the Church.
14. The prophet and the presidency--the living prophet and the first presidency--follow them and be blessed; reject them and suffer.
President David M. McConkie, 1st Couns. Sunday School
A teacher's attitude is what matters in the teaching process. A Teacher's attitude and spirit are more important than their experience. President McConkie tells a story about a Danish immigrant teaching 15 year old boys; the language barrier was a challenge, but he changed their lives nonetheless. A good teacher:
1. Immerses students in the scriptures
2. Applies lessons to real life
3. Seeks heaven's help
4. Acts according to promptings of the spirit
Elder D. Todd Christofferson, of the Quorum of the 12
Elder Christofferson talks about living a consecrated life and names five elements of doing so:
1. Consecrated living requires purity. We need to submit to all that God may require of us.
2. A consecrated life is one of labor. Wholesome recreation is the companion of work.
3. Consecrated living respects the physical body. We should not desecrate our bodies with tattoos, drugs, sexual impurity, etc.
4. Consecrated living requires service. We should cultivate a listening ear to give service (story about his grandfather shearing sheep and then serving a mission).
5. A cultivated life is a life of integrity. We are accountable to God.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, of the First Presidency
In times of challenge we need to slow down and focus on the essentials. It is easy to get too busy. Over scheduling your day is a vice that turns ambition into an albatross around your neck. "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" (DaVinci). Ball point pens do not work in outer space story (use pencil instead). Become great by mastering the fundamentals, which include:
1. Our relationship with God. Spend time alone with Him; repent.
2. Relationships with family members. Love for family is spelled T-I-M-E.
3. Relationships with fellowmen. Be sensitive to the needs of others and give service.
4. Ourselves. Learn to see yourself as God sees you.
Note: President Uchtdorf lost his voice for about a minute in the middle of his talk.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Help!
Patch got braces yesterday and I feel unprepared! I need advice.
So, all you moms with kids who have had braces:
How do you motivate them to brush at school after lunch?
What do you send in their lunches?
Should they really not eat pizza while wearing braces?
What do you do about Halloween candy?
Scripture of the Day: Psalms 31:1
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Random Happenings in My Part of the World
(I am wishing fall weather would arrive!)
1. Yesterday I had the missionaries over for dinner. I knew my DH would not get home in time, so I set a table up on our front proch and we dined al fresco. Too bad it didn't *feel* al fresco; it was 100 degrees outside. I felt bad for torturing the elders like that, but figured they would prefer a home cooked meal in hot weather than none at all.
2. Today I received a performance review from the department chair and it was very positive!! I was so excited to get such positive feedback because I am working my tush off doing all the prep work for these classes.
3. Patch had a b-day bishop's interview last night. Before he went, DH told him to use "Aunt Carol's strategy" for church interviews and just say "no" to every question. Upon hearing this I looked at him like he was crazy and asked, "What if they ask him if he's saying his prayers?" The DH had to agree I had a point. Maybe this is why Aunt Carol is no longer active in the church?
4. Current WIP word count is 10,444. And Lindsay H. deserves a big shout out for editing and feedback she provided on the first 8,000 words. She did an awesome job.
5. I am so looking forward to General Conference this weekend. I am planning on doing the talk summaries, but might keep them a bit briefer than I did last April. Is that okay with y'all?
6. I am currently reading The Help and am so impressed with Stockett's ability to write character voices as distinctly as she does. She is inspiring to me!
Monday, September 27, 2010
Easy Jell-O Popcorn Balls
Ingredients:
1/4 cup butter or margarine
1 package (4-serving size) JELL-O Brand Gelatin, any flavor
3 quarts popped popcorn
1 cup candy corn (optional)
Directions:
MICROWAVE butter and marshmallows in large microwavable bowl on HIGH 1-1/2 to 2 minutes or until marshmallows are puffed. Stir in gelatin until well mixed.
POUR marshmallow mixture over popcorn and candy corn in large bowl. Mix lightly until well coated. Shape into balls or other shapes with greased or wet hands.
This recipe (from CDKitchen) *supposedly* serves/makes 15; we found it made about 10-12.
Scripture of the Day: D&C 20: 75, 77, and 79
Saturday, September 25, 2010
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