Example or Exception?

by Lynette Robinson

Our Example 

In my 59 years on this earth,

I've seen a few things.  I've known a time when I think citizens were proud of and trusted the government. In bygone days we have had good and decent men in all levels of state and federal government.  I think my mom trusted that if we were playing at a friend's house and got out of line, their parents would make sure we got corrected, although I don't really remember doing anything to get corrected over because we respected adults and feared what our parents would do to us if we were disobedient or disrespectful.  We stopped at stop signs not because a cop was watching but because it was the law.  

What happened?

Yesterday my husband and I stopped by a local sandwich shop.  A young boy, maybe 11 or 12 years old,  was in line alone, ahead of us, snapping at the sandwich maker, a teenage woman, about what he did and didn't want on his sandwich.  Not once did I hear him say please, his tone was somewhat condescending and not once did I hear him say thank you.  After he left I asked the employee if she thought he orders his parents around like that also.  She commented on how often she feels disrespected and wonders why some people seem so self centered.

Along those same lines I've seen lots of comments on social media about how people feel about others.  "I don't go to church because people are too judgmental."   "I'm not happy." "Don't tell me how to act, feel, believe."  

What Does Following Jesus Look Like?

I belong to a couple of online groups specifically geared to those of the Mormon faith, my faith.  These types of comments are all over those groups.  One comment I read was something along the lines that the Church needs to "get a clue" and realize that it is now a worldwide church and people can't possibly be expected to follow the same rules as in the U.S.  

This last comment was precipitated on a post about the strapless costumes at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii.  Can we possibly encourage modesty across the worldwide membership while honoring culture and tradition?  I believe that we can.  I believe that we can create a heritage for our

Can We Follow Counsel and Still Honor Culture?

children while also explaining that where we are now is not where we once were without attacking the doctrine and the mouthpiece for the Lord.   The Lord has counseled us to be modest in our dress, actions and speech.  A person who once used tobacco can turn from their old ways without degrading his past.  Any activity that is not part of the Lord's way can be left behind.  What is there in the past that is better than what the Lord has promised the faithful?

Do we want to be an example?

Elder Russell M Nelson quoted Paul when he said; "In a letter to one of his most trusted companions, Paul wrote to young Timothy, “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”That counsel is just as valid for us now as it was then. It applies to our full-time missionaries; it applies equally to each member of the Church. Whether full-time missionaries or members, we should all be good examples of the believers in Jesus Christ. reference

Be Thou an Example of the Believers

President Boyd K Packer, apostle of the Lord stated in a speech given at BYU,  "But there is great power and great safety in holding to the scriptures and having an abounding obedience to our constituted priesthood authority. We are able to pray and receive revelation on our own, then to consider something like this letter from the First Presidency and to obediently say, “Lord, I don’t ask to be an exception.”  reference

We aren't perfect.  What does it hurt if we drop our guard? What if we aren't an example of the believers?   "The prophet Brigham Young said: “We should never permit ourselves to do anything that we are not willing to see our children do. We should set them an example that we wish them to imitate.”  Each of us can start today by being that good example."

Today I would like to invite you to “be … an example of the believers … in faith [and] in purity” 5 —two principles required for salvation.  (reference)

Emotion doesn't translate well online.  

What if, tongue in cheek, we answer a sincere online question with a smart alec remark, the inquirer has no idea you are joking and they think it is a valid and serious answer?  What if we suggest to another that they can live on the edge of obedience and not get burned because we've done it?  I'm sure that when judgement comes and that person that we have led astray will thank us for having a little fun even though they thought we were serious.  

Am I an Exception of an Example?

We are asked to do our best 

and the Lord will take up the slack.  Are we really doing our best?  If so, then absolutely, God has promised to consider our shortcomings and bridge where we could not jump.  He is a God of love more immense than we can imagine.  He, our Heavenly Mother and all of our spirit brothers and sisters said a fond farewell to us when we departed for mortality with the heartfelt prayer that we would somehow navigate this world and return to glory and joy with them. 

Heaven is cheering you on today, tomorrow, and forever. (reference)

It is in our best interest to be an example and not look to be an exception.

References

https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/boyd-k-packer_follow-rule/

https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/be-thou-an-example-of-the-believers?lang=eng

https://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/11/be-an-example-of-the-believers?lang=eng
https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2016/04/tomorrow-the-lord-will-do-wonders-among-you?lang=eng
http://www.ldsliving.com/Why-There-Are-Tattoos-Strapless-Costumes-at-the-Polynesian-Cultural-Center/s/83359

Why Dress up for Church?

by Lynette Robinson

I have read many comments and heard many make concessions as to why we really don't need to dress up for church.

While I do agree that we should be welcome no matter how we are dressed, I also believe that Sunday Worship is a sacred practice and we should consider why we are going and what God expects of us.

I have been reading from the book by Robert L. Millett, Living in the Eleventh Hour.  I have loved reading brother Millett's work and the chapter entitled "Zion's Beautiful Garments" especially struck a chord.  I have to ask myself:  "Do I approach my Sunday worship as prepared as I could?"  Preparation for worship is more than what I wear but it is a good start.

:Brother Millett states:  "I have noted with sadness an increasing informality of dress in sacred settings.  When I have visited other Christian churches, I have observed how common it is for congregations to wear Levi's, shorts, T-shirts, tank tops and flip-flops.  And, Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to see similar trends among Latter-day Saints. Casualness in dress too often reflects a casualness toward spiritual things.  It may not be true for others, but I personally have found that how I dress affects how I feel and how I act.  There's a reason why, for generations, men and women and boys and girls dressed in their Sunday best for church.  It is a sign of reverence, of respect for holy things, an outward manifestation that inwardly we prepared to be taught the gospel, to be inspired, to enter into the realm of divine experience.  It is for this reason that our Church leaders have encouraged priesthood holders who are officiating in the ordinances to wear a white shirt and tie.  While we do not want to obsess over shirt colors, fixate over outward measures of faithfulness, or scold or embarrass those who may not so dress (whether by choice or because they cannot afford to), there is wisdom in looking the part."  Living in the Eleventh Hour by Robert L. Millett

Young Women ready for Sunday Worship

In the Old Testament, Jehovah calls out to his chosen people: "Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city: for henceforth there shall no more come into thee the uncircumcised and the unclean.  Shake thyself from the dust; arise, and sit down, O Jerusalem: loose thyself from the bands of thy neck, O captive daughter of Zion.  For thus saith the Lord, Ye have sold yourselves for nought; and ye shall be redeemed without money" Isaiah 52: 1-3

"How we dress not only affects others; it also affects us. This dynamic is often circular: how we feel influences the clothes we put on, and the clothes we put on in turn shape how we feel. Changes of clothes can generate a change of mood; the soldier feels different in his uniform than he does in street clothes. In some settings our choice of attire can make or break us. If we like the way we look for a job interview, for instance, it will tend to strengthen our confidence. We feel better about our chances, as reflected in improved posture, more fluent speech, more dynamic gestures. On the other hand, inappropriate dress can sap our confidence. We have all experienced the uncomfortable effects of feeling under-dressed in a particular social setting." excerpt Clothing Matters

Worship

"What is worship, after all?  It's the act of acknowledging and praising God as God; indeed, as our God. It is the adoring response of grateful creatures to their Maker. In worship we come before God with awe and reverence, focusing on Him in loving contemplation, celebrating Him for who He is and what He has done. We willingly bow before Him in surrender, delighting in the privilege of extolling His worthiness. In worship we join our small voices with the celestial choirs in a grand chorus magnifying the Creator and declaring his excellencies: His purity, His power, His beauty, His grace, His mercy, His love." excerpt  Clothing Matters

Are we in a posture of worship in our dress and grooming at Sunday worship or are we telling God, "You're lucky I made it today."?  

Some Days are More Difficult than Others

There are those days when getting to church is difficult.  I remember a fun song we learned in Primary. Saturday is a Special Day. It's the day we get ready for Sunday.  It seems that lately, Saturday is so packed with activities and work that we fall into bed at night, exhausted, drag ourselves out on Sunday morning, race around to find clothes, scriptures and screech out the door with little or no thought or preparation.  It takes literally minutes to lay out Sunday clothes, shoes and class materials the night before.  Or, if that is too much, you could designate a hanger to hold Sunday clothes to kept there.  A shelf for shoes and books, and a moment during evening before to share with each other why Sunday is such a special day and how it is different from the other days of the week and maybe a prayer before leaving. 

In order to get what God intends for us to have, we should go to Sunday worship in planning and purpose. We take the Sacrament not only because we have been commanded to but because we always "want His Spirit to be with us".  Wouldn't that make your week go better, if you have the Spirit of God always with you?

The Road to Discipleship

The Road to Discipleship

Where are we on that road?  Where are you personally?  Is God, or someone else, simply lucky you decided to show up to church?  Or are you there, prepared in appearance and heart to drink in fully, every morsel of spiritual and temporal advice you can get?  Some weeks are more of a feast than others but how do you know which weeks are going to leave you edified and well fed?  We need to attend every week because sometimes we are fed and sometimes we do the feeding.  We need to be standing in the right place so that when we are in need, Christ will do for us what we can't do for ourselves. 


More Resources
Dress and Appearance
More than Hemlines and Haircuts 
My Sunday Best

Thank You, God!

by Lynette Robinson

Fall Leaves by Alicia Blickfeldt

This year has gone so very quickly and it's difficult for me to believe that fall is securely upon us.  The daily temps this week hasn't risen above 48 degrees and the gardens are beginning to look fallish.  Speaking of gardens, ours was somewhat of a disappointment and it's odd but some people report that theirs is a lot like mine and others are having an abundance of produce.  Fortunately, I've been the recipient of many bags of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, greens and such.  Our green beans did grow and the kale is small but looks to be happy but not much else.

I had abandoned the idea of adding much to my food storage this year until I was mentioning to Jenifer, my niece, that I would like to find some red beets to put up. Most people I talk to make pickled red beets but we just love red beets as a vegetable, shredded and cooked in a little butter in a fry pan beside a piece of meat and a potato.  Not to mention that red beets are so very highly beneficial to our liver and provide incredible nutrition.

Jenifer said that they had some in their garden that I was welcome to and since I had hemmed a couple of skirts for her and refused payment, she was looking for a way to pay me back.

She asked me every couple of days when we were going to come and get them because she was anxious to square with me.

David, Singer and I trekked up the two blocks to Shane and Jenifer's house and was astounded at their beautiful garden.  Now, I really think that Shane was the chief gardener in heaven because of his love for caring for the out of doors but this garden was insanely beautiful.  The rainbow chard looked to be nearly a yard tall, the carrots looked like little orange footballs and everything was green and beautiful.  We were gifted several veggie treats.

The red beets were HUGE and I didn't need very many to fill a couple dozen pints of beautiful red yumminess for the winter.

Four years ago, at the end of our first year as camp host Service Missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, we found some choke cherries.  I knew that my grandma put up choke cherries and several people that do now but I had never done any.  We picked quite a few and I juiced them out and made jam.  During the last three years since we really haven't seen that many but this year a couple of trees at camp were loaded so we used the bucket on the tractor to get David up to pick them.

A week later Shane told us that there were some really nice ones on the edge of their hay field so we went and got them too.  I noticed another kind of bush loaded with bluish purple berries and posted a pic on facebook asking what they were and I got every answer from good to poison plants.  I finally found out that they are elderberries so we went back and got them.  By that time I had found a few more bushes and we had a nice batch of juice and jam.

During one of my morning walks I found a grove of trees loaded with beautiful blue plums.  We picked a couple of pans of plums and I discovered that the juice is just as delicious as choke cherry or elderberry.  In fact, mixing them produces an even better result.

Next came the apples and I juiced them and am still have 2 five gallon buckets to do as well as the ones still on my tree that will be dried into crispy apple treats.  When I mix the apple juice with the purple juices I get a sweet full juice that needs no sugar.

I love to go to my fruit room and lovingly admire the fruit of my labors and the generosity of God for the peace and comfort of knowing that I did this with my own hands.

Thrive Life Strawberries and Apple Syrup

This morning I made waffles and had some crumbs of Thrive Life freeze dried strawberries in the bottom of a can as well as some fresh apple juice in the frig.  I made some very delicious syrup and the left overs will gel into a beautiful jelly as it cools.

Apple Strawberry Syrup  #ThriveLife  
Thrive Daily

2 C. Apple Juice (or any juice)
1/4 C fresh or Thrive Life FD Strawberries
2 C. Organic Sugar  (or substitute white sugar)
2 TBS Regular Pectin  This is what I use
2 TBS Lemon Juice

Bring to a boil and let simmer in a sauce pan while you make your pancakes or waffles.  It will be the perfect consistency for syrup.  Store the left overs in the frig and you will have a lovely jelly for toast or sandwiches.  Reheat to use as syrup.

Wheat Bouquet

Singer and I go for a walk a few times a week.  I would like to go more and he certainly would like to go more often but life is busy even when you work at home so it is what it is.

Sometimes we walk the perimeter of a field that was planted with wheat this spring.  Over the summer have watched the drilled furrows turn into little green grass like shoots.  We have seen those shoots stand tall and develop beautiful heads of wheat.

After harvest I picked some of the stalks of wheat as well as some other dried plants for an arrangement on my dining room table.  Each time I look at it I am reminded of my pioneer ancestors who walked across the plains and immediately planted crops, including wheat, even before they began building homes.  I am reminded of pulling weeds in my grandpa's wheat field to help raise the price of his harvest as clean grain is more valuable.  I am reminded of how each loaf of bread started at the grinder to crush and powder wheat kernels into flour.  We really don't know how good we have it now.

David was reading from the newspaper earlier this week and said that this has been the driest summer on record since the beginning of precipitation record keeping and yet Mother Earth has seen fit to produce and gift us so very much.  Food directly from the earth is so much more nutritious and pure than what passes through the hands of conspiring men and laboratories.  We are so blessed!

I guess what I really want to say is Thank You, God! for the abundance you have given me.  I have been so blessed to come from a heritage that has taught me how to recognize food in it's raw state and how to make it into eatible and nutritious meals.

If Ye Are Prepared Ye Shall Not Fear

I grew up in a small southern Idaho town.  I thought everyone else had the same childhood I had.  We spent our summers riding horses, swimming in the lake, playing with our friends and every fall we went to grandma's and picked fruit, brought it home and worked to bottle 6 bushels of apricots, 6 bushels of peaches, 6 bushels of pears and as many other fruits as we could lay our hands on.  We worked in the garden alongside our dad and he taught us to love the earth as it yielded a bounty of vegetables that ended up in our basement also. One of my favorite after school treats was a fresh opened bottle of mom's dill pickles.

My Mother Would Spend Hours Admiring

We had a fire pit in the back yard where neighbors and friends would gather to feast on dad's famous dutch oven home grown chicken, rabbit and dutch oven potatoes.  My memories are sweet.

In the fall and early winter I remember my mom spending hours in her fruit room admiring the rows and rows
of beautiful bottles filled with the fruit of our labors.

Life was simple.  We had all we needed and we never went without. I so appreciate my upbringing and the lessons learned at the feet of my parents and grandparents.

September is National Preparedness month and it seems a little interesting to me that I've been inspired every September to take stock of my home store and supplies for years.

It is amazing to me how much produce we are able to glean from the land for free.  You see, my garden is usually bountiful and beautiful, but for some reason it refused to grow to it's full potential this summer.  I'm not sure why that is.  We had an issue with irrigation water early on and maybe it didn't get sufficient moisture.  Our green beans were good and I've put up lots of them.  My tomato plants aren't much bigger than they were when we planted them and our root vegetables didn't germinate at all.  Even with the shortage of tomatoes, cucumbers, squash and the like, I have still been able to maintain a full range of food storage.  I usually try to keep two years worth of life sustaining variety.  It might get a little boring but I believe we would make it.

My parents didn't maintain a store of equipment as I remember but now that I think about it, we had camping equipment and tools, animals for work and for food, and I really think we were as prepared back then as we could be.

Ever since I can remember we have been counseled to have a reserve.  Brigham Young told the saints to have 7 years of grain in reserve. (ref)  It was two years as I recall as a youngster.  The Church now suggests that we have one year of long term provisions, three months of what we regularly eat and a 72 hour bug out bag for each member of our family. We are told that the Lord does not change.  Is it possible that He has made adjustments because we haven't?    (ref)

My husband and I serve as missionaries in a Young Womens' Church Camp where we see members come regularly to practice their skills "off grid".  It is heart warming to see a family around a cozy fire, cooking a meal, connecting in a way that our digital society often blocks.

Over the last several years we have been counseled to be prepared in many areas including Financial Fitness, Spiritual Preparedness and Physical Abilities.  We have been asked to go to the Lord and see what He would have us do to prepare in personal ways.  Ask Him to show us "What Lack I Yet?"

Source

The Lord has counseled us through His messengers that turbulent times are coming. (ref)  We are in them now and are to expect difficulty and testimony testing situations.  Where do we stand in the preparation meter?  Can we feed ourselves?  Could we feed our children?  What about the traveller/begger that the Lord sends to our door?  Do we have sufficient to share?  Are we prepared to hear His voice in times of trouble?  Do we know how He talks to us?

A recent focus has been on keeping the Sabbath Day holy.(ref)  It is interesting to me how the common description of the Sabbath has migrated from "The Sabbath, to Sunday to the Weekend."  Just another day to play or work.  The commandment to keep it holy was given to Moses on behalf of the Israelites who were so adolescent in knowing and keeping the commandments that He gave them The Ten Commandments and The Law of Moses, a kinder law with rules about everything including how many steps one could take on the Sabbath.  Yes, keeping the Sabbath Day Holy is one of the original Ten.  The First Ten.  Probably the Most Important Ten!

Why is it then, that we in our advanced state are unwilling or unable to see that the Lord has given us this precious day, free from guilt about not working, a day when we can study of and worship Him?  Is it really such a great sacrifice to offer up a tithe of our time to the things of the Lord?

A scout group was in our camp a few weeks ago and one of the leaders told me that they live in a very affluent area where boats, RVs, fancy cars and all sorts of worldly trophies are proudly displayed in driveways and yards.  This man said that he is often questioned and ridiculed because he has chosen to put his financial resources into his family and preparedness instead of the things that bring peace and that moth and time doth corrupt.  He expressed concern that if there were a disaster, or time when emergency preparations would be needed, he would be called upon to take care of those who had danced in the sunshine and neglected to build a shelter against the coming rain.  That rain that we were warned about.

The Lord Warned Noah

I hear quite often that some who fail to act, believe they will find rescue with their neighbors who are preparing.

The last few days my mind has gone to the story of Noah and how he warned the people to repent.  They would not, and as he and his family boarded the ark, the angels sealed it up, the rains came and the people tried every measure imaginable to gain entrance, safety and life. I can't even imagine how difficult it was for Noah and his family to listen to their cries as they pounded and hammered.  How gut wrenching was it to know that loved ones who wouldn't listen would be destroyed and there was nothing Noah could do?

The scriptures are written for us, not for the people they are about.  When Christ taught of the 10 virgins, the 5 who procrastinated and were found without oil were prevented from obtaining it from the 5 prepared virgins.  Yes, I will share as the Lord directs.  I have no idea who that will be and I hope I am not called to stand by, helpless, as those who have heard but not acted face the consequences of inaction.

Take time to take stock of your situation and act according to the counsel of the brethren, the Prophet and the Lord as we work together to be obedient and prepared.

additional resources:
https://www.lds.org/topics/emergency-preparedness?lang=eng
https://providentliving.lds.org/emergency-preparedness-and-response/stake-ward-emergency-planning-guide?lang=eng

They Seek for Truth. Or Do They?

How Do We Search for Truth?

Searching For Truth

by Lynette Robinson


I was reading an LDS  thread on Facebook the other day about what the Prophet has said about R rated movies. He states  "This is one thing that annoys me with many church members. Essentially, we have always been taught to use our own judgements, but President Benson is the only prophet to actually say "no R rated" and he was putting emphasis on porn - type movies." link The writer's concern is that people say the prophet told us not to watch R rated movies.  He says when he asks people why they don't watch R-rated movies they always say "because the Prophet says not to."  He then  asks "which prophet?"  and people weren't able to answer.  I was also a little confused about what the point of the article actually was.

I read the comments on the Facebook thread a day or two before I read the article and so many of them were dissecting the movie rating system, comparing it to how movies are rated or not rated in other countries.  Talking about content of profanity/sex/violence and discussing their frustration of not having more clear information from the Church and talking about whether we should judge others for watching R rated movies.

It seems with every post like this, the real message, the helpful message is trodden on by those who want to press another agenda or brush off our responsibility to ourselves and families to lift, live and testify the truth of God to one another.

Pray for Guidance and Truth

In the Doctrine and Covenants Section 58:26-29 The Lord states "For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.   Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness; For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward. But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned."

Interestingly enough, I had another conversation this week with a delightful new friend of mine.  She was saying that she was wondering how the Church will address the issue of same sex attraction now that same sex marriage is legal.  You see, we have always been taught that any sexual relations outside the bonds of marriage is a sin (and even if you are not LDS but believe in the Bible, it is there too) but now that same sex couples can marry, how will they address that?  Immediately the Proclamation on the Family came to my mind.  "WE, THE FIRST PRESIDENCY and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God."  Does that cover it, or not?  I'm not here to say one way or another but I would encourage everyone to search, ponder and pray for the answer from the source of all truth.  The Proclamation on the Family has been signed by 15 Apostles of God!

President Hinkley stated “Prophets of God have repeatedly taught through the ages that practices of homosexual relations, fornication, and adultery are grievous sins. Sexual relations outside the bonds of marriage are forbidden by the Lord. We affirm those teachings.”^Reference

10 Reasons to be Morally Clean

 I recently read where Elizabeth Smart is speaking out against and condemning  the way that LDS teachers portray sexual sin, as she recounts a lesson where they pass an unwrapped stick of gum around the room for everyone to handle, someone actually chews the gum and then asks if anyone wants to have the gum. The teacher then links the chewed gum to a person who has sinned against the law of chastity.  I have never actually used that object lesson personally, I know others who have.  While I agree that it would certainly be hurtful to someone who has been raped or otherwise sexually traumatized against their will because being sinned against and sinning is two different things, she condemns the way morality is taught. I believe it certainly would hit home to someone who had violated that law.  Maybe teach the difference and with love and compassion instill in them a desire to use the Atonement of Christ and heal or repent.  They are two different scenarios. 

To start with, I don't know that the lesson of the gum came from The Church.  How does Elizabeth think we should be teaching our youth about the dangers of sexual and moral sin?  We are so quick to condemn a practice but slow to offer a better solution.

 In a gathering of youth in Denver, Prophet Gordon B Hinkley,  said "Be clean. I cannot emphasize that enough. Be clean. It is so very, very important, and you at your age are in such temptation all the time. It is thrown at you on television. It is thrown at you in books and magazines and videos. You do not have to rent them. Don’t do it. Just don’t do it. Don’t look at them. If somebody proposes that you sit around all night watching some of that sleazy stuff, you say, ‘It’s not for me.’ Stay away from it” (Denver, Colorado, youth meeting, 14 Apr. 1996).

Since this talk was delivered at a youth meeting, does that exempt adults from the counsel?  Aren't we all God's children?  Does he give laws to one and not another, reward obedience to some but not all?  Why would God say it was OK for adults to engage in activities that He forbids children to practice?  Personally, I think some people like to think that rules are just for other people.  

Follow Jesus

God's Laws are for all of us.  They keep us safe.  They help us connect to Him.  Obedience to God's laws open the channels for further light and knowledge that God sends those who turn their face towards Him.

Don't be fooled by those who want to dissect the counsel and say the Prophets haven't been clear.  We have reached the time when God expects more of us than to sit back and be spoon fed the law.  

I testify that God is a rewarder of those who truly and diligently seek Him.  He lives.  Jesus is the Savior of the world and atoned for me and you. Joseph Smith is a prophet of God and opened the dispensation of the Church of Jesus Christ in these last days and the fullness of times.  He will reward those who have followed His law and will find obedient people useful for fulfilling His purpose on this earth.  I testify, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen!

 

The Sacrament-The Lord's Supper

by Lynette Robinson

The Sacrament-The Lord's Supper

This morning as I was studying our Relief Society lesson I am reminded of the Passover as connected to the Lord's Supper and how God sent plagues on the people because Pharaoh wouldn't release the Israelites who were in bondage.

The thought came to me that as the people in this day become more and more wicked, the Lord has sent "plagues" of sorts.

 

Modern Day Plagues

1:  The U.S. spends more on medical care than any other developed nation yet has a lower life expectancy.  I think we probably spend more than any other nation. reference
2: Violence, crime, brutality and dishonesty are prevalent.
3: Mob rule is becoming increasingly prevalent
4: Good is being called evil and evil is being called good.
5: Persecution is escalating.  If you don't believe me just post a comment on social media condemning  same sex marriage, support a candidate who tries to do what God wants, or any number of hot topics these days.
6: The family is under attack.  reference  reference
7: Our government is crumbling before our very eyes and full of corruption.
8: Welfare and Medicaid  pay better than working. reference   People would rather let someone else pay their way.

Are we in bondage like the Israelites?  I think, Yes!!!

What can we do?

Did not heed the Prophet

Moses told everyone, the children of Israel and the Egyptians, that God would send a plague.  He told them to paint the blood of a first born ram on the entrance to every home.  Many were obedient and were spared but many did not and suffered immeasurably as they held the lifeless bodies of their husbands, wives and children wishing they had acted on Moses' words.

God had warned them.  They had been warned. Simple?  Effective? Lifesaving?

 

 

 

 Was it Too Easy? 

Heeded the Prophet

Are we heeding our Latter-day Prophets?  Does it seem too simple that worshiping together weekly, (D&C20:75) keeping the commandments, temple attendance and charity are too easy and cannot possibly make much of a difference in the long run?

The lepers refused to wash in the river because it made no sense that such a simple act could cure such a horrible disease.

Kings 5:13 "And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it?  How much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?"
The leper refused to wash in the river because it was too easy.

Many leave so much on the table, joy and  prosperity in this life and eternity with God, because they make no connection between faithful obedience  and joy now and in the eternities.

How do I view the Sacrament?

"There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated—

And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated."  D&C130:20-21

Each Sunday, as we celebrate the Sacrament as we have been commanded ( D&C20:75) "It is expedient that the church meet together often to partake of bread and wine in the remembrance of the Lord Jesus", The Lord's Supper, may we show a sign to the Lord and to ourselves that we are His, and that we understand the significance and the power contained in the words of the Sacrament Prayer.  Bread  and Water

Please accept this message in the spirit to which it is given.  I have a testimony that God lives, that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world, that Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God and restored the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter days with all of the truth that had been previously been lost, I know the Thomas S Monson is the Lord's prophet on the earth at this time.  I say this in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen


Related Topics
Blessings of the Sacrament

A Big Wakeup about Food Storage

Do You Really Know What's in Your Emergency Food Supply?

Nearly a month ago I was invited to a Thrive Life demonstration.  I knew very little about dried food and not a lot about the differences.  I have some 25 year storage life food set aside for when T.S.H.F. but something has been nagging at me lately regarding my emergency preparedness that we have been counseled to have but I couldn't quite put my finger on the problem.

Now, I do believe that God helps us to find the path that is best for us and I tried hard to patiently trod the unknown journey He had for me.  He kept telling me to work at "a reasonable pace" and my efforts would be enough for what lies ahead.

I have been given so many amazing experiences and people to learn from.  I could feel a spirit of peace and faith growing inside but since I closed my retail bridal store I hadn't felt a strong purpose in what I am supposed to do in the future.  That is, until now.

A week ago I attended a soap making class taught by a very talented woman, Teresa Earley.  There were about a dozen other like minded women there and one of the sweet ladies shared her story about living in New Jersey through Hurricane Sandy and the aftermath of no water, electricity, grocery stores, etc.

She said the first few days were kind of fun as they proceeded to eat all the ice cream and treats from the now non functioning freezer but over the next three weeks of  "tribulation" they went through a plethora of emotions and feelings, lots of crankiness, that she related directly to eating storage food instead of what they were accustom to eating in their daily routine.

She knew some changes were needed and now she and her family have returned to Utah and are making more of an effort to align their food storage with their daily food routine.

I was touched by her story which was part of my path.

A couple of days later, actually last Friday and Saturday I attended the Thrive Life convention in Layton Utah thinking it would be a great opportunity to learn how to better use and rotate my food storage.  My mom had previously told me that she opened a  20 year old #10 can of powdered egg and it was disgusting and inedible.  What will you do if you have scared and crying children and nothing to feed them because you have no idea what exactly is in that can on your shelf?

I did a really brave thing yesterday.  I went to my basement and opened 12 (yes, 12) cans of 25 year life food storage.  What i discovered was interesting.  First, I made me an omlet, like I learned how to prepare at the Thrive Life convention.  It was delicious.  Not all of my dried foods rehydrated as quickly as Thrive Life foods but it was a good start.

Last fall I purchased several cans of food at our local grocery store.  I also have foods from the LDS storehouse and a lot that I have dehydrated over the past couple of years so I have a pretty good start.  I came home with a half a dozen or so cans and pouches from Thrive Life and am awaiting my first shipment so I can start teaching classes.
  
Not All Are Equal 

Freeze Dried Strawberries

I was happy to find that I had two different brands of strawberries, one from Augason Foods (purchased from my local grocery store) and one from Thrive Life. 

If you look at the picture here you will see that the one on the left looks more like a real strawberry.  As I opened both cans, the one on the left smelled more like a real strawberry and when I tasted it even dried it tasted better.  Now I realize that taste is relative so I invite you to attend one of my classes to see for yourself.

Some Newly Opened Cans are Not Full.

Surprise Opening

Level of Food in Newly Opened Cans

Another comparison I noticed was the level of the contents in the can.  The Thrive Life can was nearly full while the other was only about half full.  I opened a can of powdered honey from Augason Farms and found it was also only about half full.

I showed my discovery to my mom when she was here today and she commented that you could believe that you have more food stored than you do which could be devastating in an emergency but that you need double the storage space with half full cans on your shelf.  Maybe they mean for you to re-hydrate them in the same can.

Energy Work: The Lord's Perspective

By Lynette Robinson

July 17, 2016

Energy Healing

I read a rant on the internet, on a Mormon Facebook group,  the other day about how someone the writer knew personally  had been physically ill, her doctors had offered her no relief and she was offered the option of a “healing session” from an energy worker.  The writer questioned how a lay person could possibly have any idea what was wrong with her friend, and over the phone to boot.  That question opened the flood gates of opinions with every post offering opinions in favor, being vigorously attacked and labeled as wicked and priestcraft, excommunication, cast out, etc.

As the thread continued,  the comments became more and more divisive and unkind.  It is ok to disagree but it’s the way we do it that really says who we are and who’s we are.  In Romans, Chapter 14, we are counseled to avoid quarreling about opinions and making unrighteous judgements of each other.

It seems that some people think that any energy healing that is not performed by the power of the priesthood is suspect and of the devil.  I tend to disagree. (and that's ok if you don't)  The scriptures are loaded with references to Jesus healing people and repeatedly he says “Follow Me, with no additional addendum,“but only if you hold the priesthood.”

Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith opened the flood gates of knowledge when he read in James 1:5;  “If any of you lack wisdom… and it shall be given.”  That leads one to believe that any of God’s gifts are available to any and all who seek them.

I read another post on the same Mormon Facebook group that said we must separate healing from religion.  Again, I’m not sure that is wise or even possible;  at least, not for me.  I claim all of the spiritual gifts that the Lord has bestowed on me and I ask Him to bless me with strengthening those gifts and adding other gifts as I am ready to receive. 

As a Light Worker I ask God on behalf of my client to be healed by their faith.  All that I do is in the name and power of Jesus Christ and His infinite Atonement.  All healing is through the Atonement. It is not forced for I am only an instrument in His hands and my client chooses to accept or reject the healing energy that is offered.  I begin with prayer either in private or with my client and my heart is connected to Him throughout the session.  I intentionally pray to feel love for my client and to view them in the way that the Lord sees them.  I ask that Light, Love and Truth replace the energy that is causing the imbalance/symptoms.  The rest is between my client and the Lord.

Distance Healing
This morning I was observing my husband talking on the phone to someone in another country about why he wassn't getting his MLB Extra Innings programs in our Directv.  There are no wires connecting the two phone lines to people who are physically thousands of miles apart.  The signal to our TV is, This is freaky! Energy!, transmitting through the air!  Wow!  It's hard to believe, and 100 years ago if you would have told my great grandpa that you would be able to converse in real time or see a transmission from up in outer space with nothing but air connecting you, he would have called you a liar!

But, fast forward 100 years and today, in my presence and in a matter of minutes the person on the phone with David who would only say that she was "offshore" was resetting our programming.  I heard them chatting and exchanging information about our family and home life as they awaited the new, better programming to install.  She was resetting and reprogramming energy and getting paid to do it.  Nobody is calling her Priestcrafts and evil.

What do you think energy healing is?  Resetting and reprogramming energy. 

Faith

The most important element of any abundant and healthy life is Faith.  In A New Witness to the Articles of Faith, Bruce R. McConkie states, “How came this earth into being?  Whence came the sidereal heavens? The universe? And created things in all their varieties?  The power that organizes chaotic matter; the power that sends worlds without number into governed   orbits; the power that gives order and system, location and appointment to worlds and life. – That power is named faith.  The faith that dwells in Him independently.”  A New Witness to the Articles of Faith, (Bruce R. McConkie, p.164)

Faith is the great governing principle which has power, dominion and authority over all things, by it they exist, by it they are upheld, by it they are changed. Faith is a principle of power.  According to the Apostle Matthew, faith can move mountains and nothing is impossible.  (Matthew 17:20)

The Creation

“It was by faith that worlds were framed. – God spake, chaos heard, and the worlds came into order by reason of the faith which was in Him.  So with man also; he spoke by faith in the name of God and the sun stood still, the moon obeyed, mountains removed, prisons fell, lions mouths were closed, the human heart lost its enmity, fire it’s violence, armies their power, the sword its terror and death it’s dominion and all this by reason of the faith which was in him…. What miracles and marvels are wrought by faith!  And it is the same whether they are done by men or angels or gods.  The same faith (power) always brings to pass the same eventuality.” (A New Witness to the Articles of Faith, Bruce R. McConkie, p. 165)

Brother  McConkie goes on to say that Faith goes hand in hand with knowledge.  “We shall observe the following order.  First, faith itself- what it is.  Secondly, the object on which it rests. And, thirdly, the effects from which flows from it (see also,Joseph Smith, Lectures on faith 1:2-5)

“We shall build our house of faith on the foundation He laid.  Our desire is to know and feel and be as He was.”  (is) (Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness to the Articles of Faith, p. 163)

Faith is a principle of power available to all.  God is no respecter of persons.  What is available to one is available to all.  Even the term “God’s elect” is a term to describe what we choose, not God’s choice.  We put ourselves in a position to be chosen by our growing faith,actions and by submitting our will to that of the Father..

Multiple times Faith is referred to in relation to a mustard seed which is so very tiny that it is difficult to be seen with the naked eye yet when it is grown it becomes a tree that the birds of prey perch in high above the earth to watch below for prey.

The Finger of the Lord

Christ told Matthew that he could walk on water if he had enough faith. (Matthew 8:26 and Matthew 14:31)

A woman of faith asked Jesus to heal her daughter.  She knew that He could and He did. (Matthew 15:28)

In the Book of Ether in the Book of Mormon, The Brother of Jared asked the Lord to touch mere stones and had faith that they would glow and provide light inside of the barges on their journey across the waters. 

Amanda Smith turned to the Lord for help when her son was brutally shot and it looked as if he would die.   https://latterdaymiracles.wordpress.com/2013/07/13/the-story-of-amanda-smith-at-hauns-mill/ 

Why is it that some have no problem believing these miracles and not those who tell us personally of their healings?  Why do some immediately cry “it’s of the devil?”

Jesus told the disciples that they could calm the seas if they had sufficient faith. (Mark 4)

Jesus raised the dead

A woman who had been sick for twelve years calculated to be in a place where she could just touch the hem of His garment and she knew she would be healed.  As she did, Christ felt energy flow from him and he knew what had happened.  (Mark 5:25-29,34)

“Be not afraid, only believe.” (Mark 5:36)

We read in 1 Nephi 3:7, When his brothers said it was impossible, Nephi told his father, “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.”

Atonement

The Book of Mormon plainly teaches that the healing power made possible through the atonement of Christ had application to our physical as well as our spiritual afflictions.  (Sheri Dew, Women and the Priesthood, see also Alma 7:11-12)

The Atonement is the power that allows our bodies to heal- the reconciliation of cells, tissues and organs- as well as to reconcile with God.” (Sheri Dew,  Women and the Priesthood. Digital edition.)

 “Men are that they might have joy.”  Can we have joy if we are in pain?  Can we have joy if we are weak in body, mind or spirit?  “What if the person is sick because they are being tested?” one might ask. “Faith cannot be exercised contrary to the order of heaven.  Faith is the power of God.” (Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness to the Articles of Faith, p.167)

Sometimes, when I don’t feel good, I have difficulty working on myself.  My first inclination is to ask for a Priesthood Blessing?  What if there is no worthy Priesthood holder there?  Is it necessary that I continue to suffer? Do we really believe that a gifted woman cannot access the powers of heaven even though it is not called the Priesthood?  

Does this mean that those who are not healed lack faith?  I think not.  “ And again, it shall come to pass that he that hath faith in me to be healed, and is not appointed unto death, shall be healed.” (D&C 42:48)  It actually is a comfort to me that the Lord blesses us when we ask in faith but nothing we do can over ride His will if we turn our hearts to Him.

Woman Anoints Jesus Christ unto death

Are we allowed to Anoint?

In priesthood ordinances of healing we use consecrated oil that has been blessed for that purpose.  However, there are instances when anointing is used by those who do NOT hold the priesthood and this not the same thing. A woman came to Jesus, knelt at His feet carrying an alabaster box of ointment.  She wept as she washed His feet and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed His feet, and anointed them with the ointment.  (Matthew 26, Luke 7:38) 

Do we anoint when we use essential oils, or any other type of oil in a healing modality?  When we apply Frankincense or Lemongrass, or any other oil with the intent to heal a problem, are we anointing?  Call it what you want.  It happens all the time.  Where do you want to draw the line?  I say "Ask the Lord."  He is the source of all truth.  The court of public opinion can be flawed by man's lack of insight.

Pray not to be led astray

Priestcrafts

We are warned in the scriptures against Priestcrafts and that they are evil and rob the people of blessings.  It is one of the first words thrown out there when someone wants to object to energy healing.   In my study it seems that priestcrafts are ranked right up there with murder and whoredoms.  Being accused of priestcrafts would get one’s attention.

There are relatively few references to priestcrafts in the Book of Mormon and only one in the Doctrine and Covenants that I could see.  The definition given in the scriptures: Priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion (2 Nephi 26:29).  How is healing in the name of the Lord, priestcraft?  Some say that charging for our gift is wrong.  I say, take it to the Lord.  Many energy healers make a modest living In their modalities but I am not aware of many that are getting rich doing it.  And, why is it that we have no problem paying our doctor, chiropractor or massage therapist for their time?

Healing References

Let’s look at the many, many references to healing found in the scriptures.  I know I didn’t find them all.

“The power of the lord was present to heal them.” (Luke 5:17) Who called on the Lord on their behalf?

“But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not’ and when thou are converted, strengthen thy brethren.” (Luke 22:32)

“Through faith in His name hath made this man strong… perfect soundness.” Acts 3:16)

Gift of healing-manifesting the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:10)

Wo unto those who say the Lord no longer worketh by …. Gifts…. Healings (3 Nephi 29:6)

“The Lord took away work of miracles and healings by the disciples because of wickedness.” (Mormon 1:13-14)

“Those who deny gifts or healing knoweth not the gospel of Christ- has not read the scriptures or does not understand them.” (Mormon 9:7-8)

Know truth (Moroni 10:4-5)

Gifts of God (Moroni 10:8-18)

“We can do all things in Christ.” (Moroni 10:23)

The only reason for gifts to be taken or gone. (Moroni 10:24-25)

Deny not His power.  (Moroni 10:33)

“I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh – sons and daughters prophesy, visions, dreams…. Miracles and wonders in the midst of you..” (Acts 2:17-19)

“Through the Atonement, Jesus Christ has power to heal all manner of sickness and disease.” (Matthew 4:23)

There were more references than I can prudently put in this article or nobody would read it through so I will ask that you do your own research in this area.  However, if this was all, wouldn’t it still be enough to tell us that energy, healing, service, prayer and faith all go hand in hand?  We uplift and edify one another when we gather, even two or us, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20)

Do We have the Right to Heal?

What gives a medical doctor the right to heal us?  We have no issue ingesting or applying a chemical made by man in a laboratory but find it offensive to use Godly created oils, herbs, touch, thought or intention to balance and heal our body and spirit that were not made by man, but by God.

A doctor prescribes a drug or treatment without scientific tests, yet we take that prescription right to the pharmacy.  Why, you might say that his years of schooling tells him that we have an infection.  How, I say, can he know this without swabbing your throat or testing your blood?  Just maybe, he is using his intuition.  We all know that some doctors are better at diagnosing than others.  Here’s a crazy thought; what if they are really using energy medicine to feel the source of the illness?

Charity is the Pure Love of Christ

A Light Worker can be sensitive to sources of imbalance.  They may feel a change in an energy body.  Not diagnosis; but acknowledging.

Healing actually means to remove blocks to balance so that the Spirit/Mind/Body/Emotion/Structure/Soul may align and be in harmony and highest health.  “Be One!”

Here’s a little food for thought: “In Galatians 5:20 the English word, witchcraft is used to translate the Greek word pharmakei from which the English word pharmacy is derived.” Sheri Dew, Women and the Priesthood, digital edition

Do some take it beyond the mark?  Probably, likely, absolutely!  But who are we to say, as long as we are not involved?  However, we are counseled not to contend one with another (2 Nephi 26:32)  The Lord told us that the spirit of contention is not of Him (Proverbs 17:14)  In 3 Nephi, Jesus said that the spirit of contention is of the devil.  How is arguing over this any better than what someone else does by their choice? 

Jesus said, “Follow me- do as ye see me do.”  (John 12:26, John 10:27, John 21

Search out the broken and heal them

“We should never fail to take seriously the healing power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.” (Sheri Dew , Women and the Priesthood, p.181)  Mine is on my tablet so the page may be different.

Can energy healing be used for dark purposes or in dark ways?  Absolutely!  With great knowledge comes great power.  Faith in God is power.  We must stay close to the Spirit always, lest conspiring individuals of this and the other world, or those well-meaning people who have been blinded by the craftiness of men, attempt to lead us astray.  We also need to avoid being scared from fulfilling our highest purpose and divine potential.  When we shine bright, we light the way for others and through our faithful countenance, others can see a reflection of Him and know that all that is good and desirable is possible on this earth.

Energy healing is one of the oldest practices known in the world today.  Since 4000 B.C, healers have understood that our health greatly depends on the quality of energy that flows through and makes up our bodies.  In Chinese medicine, that energy is called “Qi” or “Chi”.l  In Ancient Indian or Ayurvedic medicine, this energy is called “Prana.” 

Greater Love Hath No Man

Imbalances of this part of our existence may deeply affect our physical and mental health.  (Dr. Bradley Nelson, The Emotion Code p. 43)

Reputable laboratory experiments have repeatedly shown that thoughts can directly influence the rate of growth in plants, fungi and bacteria.  William Tiller, a physicist at Stanford University, has shown that thoughts can affect electronic instruments.  Studies have proven that when the energy of thought is directed intentionally, it can impact someone else, regardless of whether they are nearby or all the way around the world.  (Dr. Bradley Nelson, The Emotion Code, p.48)

As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, ours is a ministry of healing with a duty to bind the wounds and ease the pain of those who suffer.

Our Gospel Principles manual p. 129 says this of The Gift of Healing: “Some have the faith to heal, and others have the faith to be healed.  We can all exercise the faith to be healed when we are ill (see D&C42:48) Many who hold the priesthood have the gift of healing the sick.” It says that not all who hold the Priesthood have the gift of healing. “Others may be given a knowledge of how to cure illness.” 

 “He prepared a way that they might be healed; and the labors which they had to perform was to look; and because of the simpleness of the way, or the easiness of it, there were many who perished.” (1 Nephi 17:41)

Let us not allow our fears to turn into the Salem Witch Trials.  Let us all be anxiously engaged in a good cause so we can stand together, hand in hand as we welcome the return of the Savior in all His Glory.  That we may kneel at His feet and bear His brilliance.  I say this in the name of Jesus Christ, our redeemer, our brother, our savour, Amen!