Stake Conf. 2011 - Sunday morning

Brother and sisters – it’s great to be here. This session of conference is the first for many of you – as it has replaced your primary, Sunday school, YM & YW today. I would like to welcome each of you young people with your parents. Others of you this is the second or third session of our stake conference that you have been invited to attended. Now whether you attended those sessions is another matter.

Some of you may think you have to listen to the members of the stake presidency quite often. I hope that what I have prepared today will be beneficial to each of you and give you some direction and help in strengthening your testimonies.

All of us have had individuals in our lives that have strengthened – taught and helped us in our times of need. Many of these people in my life have come from the pages of the scriptures.

I don’t know how it worked in the preexistence, what events in the history of the world we were able to witness or participate in, or if that was even possible. We know from the scriptures that at the birth of the Savior there was heavenly host singing praise to God – if my voice in the preexistence was the same as it is now – I may not have been invited. What would it have been like to see the children of Israel leave Egypt, Elisha calling fire down from heaven to witness the existence of the true and living God. To be there and see the faith of the stripling warriors fighting for the liberty of mothers.

If we were allowed to see some of these events as they had transpired, which ones would have been at the top of your list – most of us would have included any event where the Savior was present? His birth, His appearance to the Nephite’s – His atoning sacrifices. That one may have been hard for us to see – knowing that it was our actions that caused His suffering. But understanding the great plan of salvation - I’m sure we would have known that the price had been paid and that the gate had been opened.

We know that during His suffering the Savior was able to see His seed - or those of us that would make the atonement effective in their lives. I’m sure that gave Him straight during His time of need – He knew it was necessary for all of us. With this act, we now have the opportunity to return and live with God. What a waste it would be if we failed to make it effective in our lives.

Another event that would be on MY list was the last address of King Benjamin gave to the people with whom he served and loved.

His sermon was so powerful that all the people believed his words – the scripture states

“ They all cried with one voice, saying: Yea we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us;”

Then it tells what the spirit did to them –

“Has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.”

Can you imagine how powerful the spirit must have been, to have such an impact on the whole kingdom?

Like most of the ancient prophets - we know very little about Benjamin’s youth, his trials, challenges and victories. But we do know a little more about his father. He was the first King Mosiah – a prophet, seer and revelator. He translated ancient records. He was the one that received the revelation from the Lord for himself and his people to leave the land of Nephi or be destroyed by the Lamanites. It appears to me that they didn’t know where they were going when they left, as the scriptures say –

(They) “Harkened unto the voice of the Lord and they were led by many preaching and prophesying…and they were led by the power of his arm.”

We don’t know how old Benjamin was at that time – was he in primary, perhaps even scared that they were leaving their homes and not knowing where they were going. On that journey they were led to the land of Zarahemla and to the people of Mulek – who had also been brought out of Jerusalem around the time of Lehi. These people were more numerous than the Nephities but had forgotten their God and the language of their fathers.

Mosiah set up the means whereby they started to teach them their language and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Was Benjamin a young man at this time and had an opportunity to serve as a missionary preaching the gospel? Is this when he started to learn to love these people, or were these events the beginning of Benjamin’s religious education and the strengthening of his testimony? When did Benjamin receive his testimony – was it at the feet of his prophet father – was it a manifestation of peace and safety that came from these experiences? I’m sure it was all of these – line upon line, precept on precept - just as each of us today have the opportunity to receive ours.

After Benjamin was made King – they had many wars and much bloodshed. Under his leadership the Lamanities were driven out of the land. These are the things we know about Benjamin before his sermon. Then he reiterated things that were common knowledge among his people. He had served them without receiving personal gain – he always had done the things of God first –

“When you are in the service of your fellow beings you are only in the service of your God.”

Something that is important to point out is that his father, a prophet of God – set him apart also as a prophet seer and revelator, and consecrated him as their king. Given the keys of the priesthood and the kingdom of God. After doing the best he could – which apparently was amazing. Now he was giving his last declaration, testimony and instruction to those with whom he had been given responsibility to serve. He didn’t seek that responsibility, but it was given to him from the Lord,

Where did he receive that message –why was it so important? He received it from and angel of God – it was the message that the Lord wanted to give to the people at that time. That is the responsibility of all prophets – it’s also the responsibility of all followers of Christ that are given the opportunity to teach or lead in the kingdom of God. Revelation can and should be apart of every church calling as it relates to the responsibilities of that call. This is also true when it come to the workings of a righteous family.

Brother and sisters – a patriarchal blessing is a very personal and sacred thing. One of the greatest blessings I received in mine was the promise that the angels of God know me and will administer to my needs. Unlike Benjamin – I haven’t had an angel appear to me and give the content of my talk today – but I have fasted and prayed for the guidance of the Lord and the spirit and power of the Holy Ghost to know what I should say. Like the rest of the stake presidency I too haven’t sought this responsibility. Shortly we will hear from President Hislop and President Larsen.

President Larsen holds the keys of authority for this stake - he is the one, with our support that receives revelation for the events related to the church in this area. Those that are chosen by the Lord to serve in these positions and also as general authorities – have another thing in common with Benjamin – he stated,

“ But I am like as yourselves, subject to all manner of infirmities in body and mind.”

Occasionally some people have problem with the church and lose their testimony because of the weaknesses of its members – leaders or not. He without sin cast the first stone. I’ve on occasion offended some of you, for which I am sorry. Please forgive me and anyone else that is standing in the way of you receiving the spirit of the Lord and the direction you need in your life.

Twice a year we have general conference – where we receive instruction from the general authorities of the church. At this time it is similar to King Benjamin’s discourse – these men are the ones that we sustain as prophets, seers and revolators. I’m sure that their messages are prepared with much fasting – prayer and revelation from the Savior on what He wants His people to know at this time.

Some of us might rightly say that they talk about the same subjects over and over – How great would it be if we had the same reaction that Benjamin’s people did and actually started following the counsel so they wouldn’t have to repeat themselves.

--All of you primary children – would you please do me a favor? Would you please remind your parents each day to read the scriptures together and have family prayer? Would you please make sure that each of your families has Family Home Evening every Monday night.

--To the youth of the stake – would you please make sure that you or any of your friends never use the Lord’s name in vain – or any other swear words. Would you please - at all cost remain morally clean and make sure your not the one to causes someone else to break that sacred commandment.

--To the holders of the priesthood – would you please promise me that you will always live worthy of that sacred responsibility? So if asked you could use that priesthood to help those in need. Also promise the Lord today that you will never / or never again look at pornography – that demeans the sacred covenants of marriage, belittles your mothers – wife’s – sisters and daughters.

--To the women of the stake, would you please understand how you dress effects the choices you and those around you - are and will make. Understand that you are of great worth – Satan desires you to believe you need to look a curtain way and that you need to be successful in the eyes of the world in order to be happy. These are lies.

--To everyone here today – would you please be nice to each other. Open up your circles of friendships to include those that need help and feel so alone. Would all of us forgive those that have made mistakes – and not hold it against them for the rest of their life? If I recall that would include everyone here. Share your faith and love of the Savior with those around you – trust in Him, stop being so negative.

Brothers and sisters – the list could go on and on. These are all things that we have heard from those given responsibility to guide and direct us. But I would venture to say that more that one of these requests is needed for every one of us.

In Oct. Conference – Elder Duncan – 70’s said:

Surely one of the crowning blessings of membership in this church is the blessing of being led by living prophets of God…. The prophet and President of the church today Thomas S. Monson receives Gods word for the entire membership of the church and for the world, in addition, we sustain as prophets, seers, and revolators the counselors in the First Presidency and the members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

Brothers and sisters, the words of the prophets aren’t always popular or what the world or the learned think that is correct – but it will always be what is best for our eternal progression and personal happiness.

As Elder Duncan stated the prophet speaks for the Lord to the members of the church and to the world. The question is are we listening and following that counsel?

We as members of the Church are a weird or odd lot - of course some of us are weirder than others. We profess that our priesthood leaders can receive revelation and guidance to show us the way. We believe there are prophets, seers and revolator that can give us information that will bring us peace, direction and hope in these uncertain times. But statistically only a third of our members show up to stake conference - we don't know what percentage watches general conference. Or are we just excited it's a week off from our responsibilities. Do we know what they are saying?

Now I know I'm saying this to the ones that showed up - not the ones that decided to stay home and sleep-in. But is the Ensign that reprints the prophets words sitting on our end table unopened or is it tattered and torn as you search it's pages wanting to know what the prophets have told us at this time.

I've hear on many occasions members concerns about the world in general and how hard thing are or are becoming. In our last conference there was a lot of council on this matter. Bishop Edgley looked at it with a different perspective in his sermon entitled "How faith is a choice" - He stated:

"We live in one of the greatest dispensations of all times - a time former prophets looked forward to, prophesied of, and, I believe, yearned for. However with all the heavenly blessings bestowed upon us, Satan, ever so real, is ever so active, and conflicting messages are continually bombarding all of us."

Brother and sisters from these comments we can see where those feelings of doom, gloom and fear are coming from - when in reality we are privileged to live in one of the greatest time in the history of the world.

Elder Neal Anderson - of the Twelve gave us hope when he stated:

"The Lord has not left us alone in our quest to return to him. Listen to his warning words alerting us to the danger ahead: Take ..heed, watch and pray. Beware lest ye... be deceived. Be watchful and careful. Beware lest ye also .. fall from your own stedfastness."

Perhaps my favorite comment in our last conference - relating to this matter was given by Elder Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve when he stated:

"God will not always reward you immediately according to your desires, Rather, God will respond with what in His eternal plan is best for you, when it will yield the greatest advantage. Be thankful that some times God lets you struggle for a long time before the answer comes. That causes faith to increase and your character to grow."

"If you have determined to live righteously, don't become discouraged, life my seem difficult now, but hold tight to that iron rod of truth, You are making better progress than you realize. Your struggles are defining character, discipline and confidence."

Brother and sisters, that quote is full of wonderful and difficult information. He says that God many times doesn't immediately reward us - He lets us struggle for a long time - life may be difficult.

But the positives in his comments far out weigh the negatives. God will respond according to His eternal plan what is best for each of us - when it will yield the greatest advantage. He told us the answer will come - your faith, character, discipline and confidence will grow. You are making better progress than you realize.

Those are great words that can give us strenght. But among his words is a responsibility and challenges - what we must do to make these promises come true.

Be thankful- God allows us to struggle, but we should also have gratitude for all of our blessings as well. Be determined to live rigthously. Don't be discouraged. Hold tight to the iron rod of truth.

We've learned the iron rod is the word of God - we find that word through our teachers and leaders - through the words of the living prophets - and in the Scriptures that we should be studying daily. Then the greatest manifestations of His word comes to each of us through revelation and the power of the Holy Ghost - confirming those sources and the fact that God lives and Jesus is the Christ.

Those that know me very well - know that I don't have much of a fashion sense - today I'm wearing a beautiful gold tie - which also happens to be the color of the Young Women's new value of virtue. This tie was given to me as a present from our stake Young Women's presidency because I was able to complete the challenge they gave to all the youth of our stake - to read the Book of Mormon and underline all the references to the Savior Jesus Christ - I also included any reference that had anything to do with any member of the Godhead.

As great as this tie is - it nothing compared to the other gift I received. I received further witness that God lives and that Jesus is the Christ. That he loves me and is guiding and directing my life. This manifestation has also come to me as I have read the words of the living prophets testifing of the truthfulness of this great work - and trying to follow their teachings.

Jan 2011 - Saturday night

A short time ago I had a conversation with an individual that was wondering how much influence the Lord really has in his life. It’s because of that conversation I want to address that topic.

I testify that those that are righteous have and will always be given assistance in their times of need. Far too often we think we know what is best in our lives and for our eternal progression – not always understanding what the Lord knows and how it could give us the strenght, growth and faith that is required to reach our full potential.

To the Prophet Joseph Smith the Lord stated:

And if thou shouldst be cast into the pit, or into the hands of murderers, and the sentence of death passed upon thee; if thou be cast into the deep; if the billowing surge conspire against thee; if fierce winds become thine enemy; if the heavens gather blackness, and all the elements combine to hedge up the way; and above all, if the very jaws of hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good. (D&C 122:7)

Brothers and sisters - I don’t know about you – but I don’t see these things as being for my good. But they would defiantly be unforgettable experiences.

This is the same young man that at the age of seven was faced with the amputation of his leg - there was a possibility that it could be saved.

Was it a coincidence that Doctor Nathan Smith the only man in America who could have saved his leg - lived less than eight miles from his home? This was in an area of the country where there were still friontier type of conditions. Shortly after this event both of them moved to different parts of the country.

The operation was difficult and extremely painful – it is a testimony of the resolve and courage of the young Joseph Smith.

The Smith family moved a few miles west to the state of Vermont. It’s interesting to learn from the history of that area, that after they arrived, there were three winters in a row where the snowfall was far above normal, making farming difficult and almost nonproductive, this failure, causing the Smith family to move west to up state New York to the Palmyra area, where they hoped to better their condition. This brought Joseph to the Hill Cumorah area, where he needed to be.

If those three years in Vermont had been productive and easy - would they have wanted to go where the Lord wanted them to be? Or would they have been as humble or prepared to receive the challenges that accompanied the restoration.

These were just the challenges of his youth – for the rest of his life he was persecuted, lies were spread about his charactor and honesty. Some of his greatest critices were those who once embrassed his message. Despite these challenges – or maybe partly because of them them – D&C 135:3. 7

“Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. … He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. … Their innocent blood … is a witness to the truth of the everlasting gospel that all the world cannot impeach”

There is no doubt that the Lord guided and prepared the life and experiences of the Prophet Joseph Smith. But such preparations and assistance is the right and privilage of all followers of truth and rightousness. All men, woman and children throught the blessings and administration of the Aaronic Preisthood have the right to the administring of angels.

Not all events in our lives are guided and directed by the spirit – part of this mortal experience is for us to learn and grow through our agency or personal choices. In Nephi’s words, “the Lord God gave unto man that he should act for himself.” Be assured that if we remain faithful we will never have challenges greater than our capacity to overcome them – nor will the Lord forsake us, and when necessary he will take us by the hand and guide us throught the challenges we face. These events can be as miraculous as those surrounding the life the Savior and his followers throughout time.

Sometimes it's hard to explain the how’s, why’s and where’s in ours life’s, or to understand how much the Lord is guiding and directing each of us. Elder Bednar quoting Nephi, called many of these events the tender mercies of God.

More than thirty years ago I was serving as a missionary in the New Mexico Albuquerque Mission. I had only been in the mission field for a few months - when I received a phone call from the president. It was during the middle of a month – a number of weeks from a scheduled transfer. He asked me, as soon as possible, to go to a different area. When I got there I was to contact the ward mission leader and to give the president a call. I was informed there had been some problems and that he wanted me to be the district leader and to do the best I could in rectifying the situation.

This new location was hundreds of miles away. I remember during the long bus ride – I questioned why I had been assigned to take care of the situation. After reaching the area I followed my instructions and met with the ward mission leader and called the mission president. Sadly not everyone is faithful in their responsibilities in the kingdom of God, this also applies to missionaries. There were three Elders transferred and one young man was sent home because of his actions. I learned a lot about the situation and events that had taken place – most of which were of a financial nature, there had been some unique behavior from a couple of missionaries, many of their actions had become public knowledge. There is no one else that knows more about the events that had transpired than I did. I did the best I could to clean-up and restore the confidence of those in the area and the reputation of the church. But what I had done could have been done by most of the Elders in the mission - I viewed it only as an opportunity to learn and become a better missionary.

Seventeen years later I was given the opportunity to serve as a Bishop. This opportunity came because of the formation of a new ward, which took place the same day I was sustained as its Bishop. I had been serving in a singles ward at the time and didn’t know most of the member of our new ward. For our first Sunday worship we had our sacrament meeting and then because there were no teachers called for Sunday school or any other organizations - we had a linger-longer to give everyone the opportunity to get to know each other. What better way is there to allow the members to meet and greet each other than over a stack of cookies? During this time I tried to talk to as many people as possible.

I remember walking up to a group of couples that were talking about where the men had served missions. Politely they ask if I had gone on a mission and where I had been able to serve. I answered the question and told them when I was there. One young women in the group asked if I had served in a curtain area – which also happened to be the location I an talking about. I told her that I had and loved it. She then took me by surprise and asked if I knew an Elder, calling him by name. I hadn’t heard that name for more than seventeen year – it was the Elder that had many of the problems and had been sent home. With a surprised tone I told her I know more about that Elder than anyone in the world and that he was a piece of work. At that time someone called my name and I needed to go to another part of the church – I excused myself and went to where I was needed.

Brothers and sisters - Personal revelation is just that, personal and unique to each individual. Over the next week or so this young lady continued to receive manifestations from the spirit that she needed to come see her Bishop. Seventeen year earlier this woman then a young girl was living in part of the area this Elder was serving. An Elder is trusted because of his calling – he broke that trust by touching her inappropriately on more than one occasion. She was scared as any young girl would have been and tried to tell her parents – but sadly they didn’t believe her because he was a missionary. He was then sent home because of the other things that happened which I was given the responsibility to rectify. She decided at that time that she would never tell another soul about the things that had taken place during that time. Despite her silence, these events continued to haunt her for those many years. Until her new Bishop told her he knew what kind of missionary he was – and then the spirit told her that I would believe what she needed to tell me.

After a couple of weeks she made an appointment to come and see me – the spirit was so strong and helped her to feel the love of the Lord and the power of the atonement. I assured her that not only did I believe her but also it was in complete character with the other thing I knew had happened at that time. It wasn’t her fault nor was she to blame herself anymore for the things that had taken place. We ended that appointment with a priesthood blessing. After she left my office I fell to my knees and thank my Father in Heaven for the marvelous miracle that had just taken place. I envisioned seventeen years earlier a faithful mission president on his knees in humble pray – asking which of his hundreds of missionaries he should sent to take care of the problems that had developed. I even think he would have been surprised at the answer he received, perhaps even asking again. Yes there were many missionaries that could have successfully taken care of these problems – but there was only one that would someday be the Bishop of this little girl. She only lived in our ward for a short period of time. I believe that they too had been guided to this location for this very purpose. I could take that a step further – there were many individuals that could have been the Bishop of this ward at that time as well. But the Lord inspired those in authority that it was suppose to be me at that time.

The Lord knows the beginning from the end - He is and will continue to prepare circumstances and individuals to help each of us in our times of need, sometimes we are prepared to help those with whom we will come in contact with. It’s our opportunity and responsibility to be worthy enough to be used as a tool in his hands.

Do we have the faith and confidence that the Lord will provide the means for our procession and exaltation? That it’s his time table and wisdom that is superior to ours.

Elder Bruce R. McConkie taught where that faith comes from.

“Faith is a gift of God bestowed as a reward for personal righteousness. It is always given when righteousness is present, and the greater the measure of obedience to God’s laws the greater will be the endowment of faith”

As with all gifts of the spirit – they are given to those that Love the Lord and put him first in their lives. As he stated “If you love me, keep my commandments. “

The questions that we should then ask – or evaluate are

- Do I have the faith necessary to trust the Lord in all of my doing?

- Am I being obedient enough to receive the guidance, direction and faith needed to reach my full potential?

- What areas do I need to work on – to allow the spirit to be with me and my family?

- Am I accepting the gifts of the Savior to help me repent of my sins and receive the cleansing power of the atonement?

The influence and blessings of the Lord are all over our lives and circumstances. We need to take the time to look for them and express graditude and thanks for our many blessings.

A testimony is a manifestation of the Holy Ghost of the truthfulness of an event, priciple or doctrine. The most importantant function of the Holy Ghost is to bear witness of God the Eternal Father and of the Savior Jesus Christ.

One of the greatest testimonies ever give, was by the Prophet Joseph Smith recorded in D&C: 76 22-24

“And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!

“For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—

“That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God”

I add my testimony to his – that God lives and loves each of us, that Jesus is the Christ, the Savior of the world - He has paid the price for our happiness and exaltation. That we are indeed his Sons and Daughters. Of this I testify in the name of Jesus Christ – Amen.

(stake conf. Sunday 2007) Spiritual resolutions

(stake conf. Sunday 2007)

New Year’s resolutions – According to Webster dictionary - Resolution A: act or process of reducing to simpler form. B: The act of answering or solving. C: act of determining.

We associate New Year’s resolutions with setting of goals or an opportunity to start anew - a chance to change or rededicate our efforts, a determination to do what is right or accomplish what we want.

I think some people hate New Year’s resolutions as much as others like them. One problem I see is that people set goals because deep down they know they need to do something – that many times is hard. To loss weight, exercise and much more.

Spiritually resolutions would include daily scripture reading, personal and family prayer, and temple attendance. The individual repentance of sins would very with each one of us.

These resolutions shouldn’t only be made at the beginning of a New Year. But these should be made continually – or at least weekly as we partake of the sacrament. Renewing our covenants, promises and blessing with the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

There are a number of things that can help us this change – or have a resolution to do better

One of these is following the counsel of living prophets.

Gordon B. Hinckley – about Spencer W. Kimball 1985

And now, what an inspiring and delightful experience to hear again as he spoke in the days of his great vitality, our beloved leader, President Kimball. His words have stirred within us anew a resolution to lengthen our stride and quicken our pace in the awesome responsibility to carry the gospel to the world while strengthening the membership wherever there may be weakness. He himself has done that which he has asked others to do and has done it with greater devotion and energy.

I think that all of us would say that President Hinckley has done the same during his time as our beloved prophet.

When I read this quote I thought of King Benjamin – he also did what he ask his people to do. His people were stirred with anew resolution to lengthen their strides.

Mosiah 5: 1-2

And now, it came to pass that when King Benjamin had thus spoken to his people, he sent among them, desiring to know of his people if they believed the words which he had spoken unto them.

And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.

What an event that must have been – just think how powerful the spirit must have been, that all that were there had no more desire to do evil, but good continually. I’ve felt the Spirit extremely strong many of times in my life. But I wish I could say it made such an impact that I had no disposition to do evil. It has affected me, and through repentance I have always had the desire to be faithful – to hold a current recommend, pay my tithes and offering and fulfill my responsibilities.

The event at King Benjamin’s time was so life changing that it was many year after that there were any major problems in the church. And then it was with the children that were too young to understand what had taken place.

Mosiah 26: 1

Now it came to pass that there were many of the rising generation that could not understand the words of king Benjamin, being little children at the time he spake unto his people; and they did not believe the tradition of their fathers.

We know that included in these individuals was Alma the Younger and the Sons of Mosiah. Who once they repented and came unto the Savior, ended up as some of the greatest missionaries in the Book of Mormon.

As most of you know our conference theme in –

D&C 1:12

Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is nigh;

Brothers and sister, there is not just one area that we all need to prepare in – we need to prepare physically, spiritually, emotionally.

Next month as a stake there will be a preparedness day presented by the Relief Society. This will give the adults an opportunity for hands on examples of what options we have.

If we are to have a life changing events in our lives and with our testimonies - we need to spiritually prepare for such an event. How did King Benjamin’s people prepare themselves for hear his finale sermon, that made such a difference in their lives?

In Mosiah 2 we learn

– of their great Love for their leader – the people ^agathered themselves together throughout all the land, that they might go up to the ^btemple to ^chear the ^dwords which king Benjamin should speak unto them. They were so numerous that they all couldn’t hear his words.

- they came in the attitude of obedience and sacrifice - and they also took of the ^afirstlings of their flocks, that they might offer ^bsacrifice and ^cburnt ^dofferings ^eaccording to the law of Moses;

- they came with an attitude of love and thankfulness, understanding all that the Lord had done for them -and also that they might give thanks to the Lord their God, who had brought them out of the land of Jerusalem, and who had delivered them out of the hands of their enemies, and had ^aappointed just men to be their ^bteachers, and also a just man to be their king, who had established peace in the ^cland of Zarahemla, and who had taught them to ^dkeep the commandments of God, that they might rejoice and be filled with ^elove towards God and all men.

- they came as families, and they pitched their tents round about the temple, every man having his ^atent with the door thereof towards the temple.

Brother and sisters - they came prepared to hear the word of God – to sacrifice in preparation for the Atoning sacrifice of our Lord and Savior. They were thankful for what the Lord had done for them, he had brought them, delivered them, established peace and taught them. Then their family pointed their tent toward the temple.

We must prepare ourselves to have the spirit and then the Lord will allow us to have these life changing experience, that bare witness of the truthfulness of this great work. Many of these experiences are small and come piece by piece – others are earth shaking to those involved, but the preparation is vital.

At our last conference, the Stake Presidency had the opportunity to bare our testimonies. At that time I told about one of these life changing experiences that happened to me as a 12 year old boy in the sacred grove. At that time I received a witness that God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ did appear to the boy prophet Joseph. That event has been an anchor and straight to me throughout my life.

I remember we knew in advance that we would have an opportunity to spend some individual time at that sacred location. I prepared, by reading the Book of Mormon and praying that such an event could happen to me.

Talking about his conversion Elder Packer stated -

I made attempts to read the Book of Mormon. I did not read it all until I was on a troop ship with other bomber crew members, headed for the war in the Pacific.

(I think that would make any of us try harder)

He continued:

I determined that I would read the Book of Mormon and find out for myself whether it is true or not. Carefully I read and reread the book. I tested the promise that it contained. That was a life-changing event. After that, I never set the book aside.

When these manifestations come it’s our opportunity or responsibility to act on them. Like Elder Packer stated – after that, he never put the book aside.

Now is the time for each of us to prepare –

Primary – now is the time for many of you to prepare to be baptized and become member of the Church. Those that have been baptized must live the promises that you have made. You young men in the primary, you need to prepare to receive the Aaronic Priesthood.

Young Man and Young Women- Now is the time to learn how to get answers to your prayers, as each of you have major decision coming up soon that will effect you for eternity. Prepare now - to go to the temple and serve full time missions. You should prepare to receive your patriarchal blessing. You should receive an education or vocational training in order to provide for your families. Most of you will have the opportunity to go to Martins Cove this summer for our youth conference. Now is the time to start preparing to feel the spirit of that sacred location, and understand the sacrifices our ancestors made for us.

Adults -Prepare for possible emergencies, financially and with needed storage or supplies. Prepare spiritually that the spirit might guide us in our time of need. For dedicated service no matter what the call might involve. Prepare to have the spirit in teaching our families about the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The first steps in each of these preparations are to come unto Christ – to receive or strengthen our testimonies that God lives and Jesus is the Christ. For you in the primary – read the scriptures with your family, make sure you are praying everyday, learn and follow the commandment that our Heavenly Father has given us. To those not in the primary – act like you are, become child like in our desire to know God.

In my remarks last night I used the parable of the fig tree in Matt 24, about the second coming of the Savior.

32 Now learn a parable of the ^afig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:

33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that ^ait is near, even at the ^bdoors

Brothers and sisters, the Joseph Smith translation of this chapter has just a few differences - in the second verse in stead of saying – So likewise ye, it says - So likewise mine elect shall see.

Indeed it is the elect and those that have the Spirit as their guide that will not be surprised at the coming of the Lord – these are they that will be prepared, these are they that will be excited and are taken up to meet their Savior and Redeemer. In the scriptures it talks about that day as a great and dreadful day of the Lord. Indeed those that are prepared will view it as great, but those that are not will dread their lack of faith and obedience to the commandments and covenants that they have made.

Over the years, some of my kids have played a lot of soccer. When I was younger there were no soccer leagues in Cache Valley, so I never played. I remember going to the games not understanding the rules or the strategy of the game. When our daughter Jayme was playing for Logan High, I remember toward the end of the game that all of the sudden they turned off the scoreboard clock with two minutes remaining. Apparently the referees had been keeping the time on the field and would add time when action is stalled. This would leave the rest of us to wondering how much time is actually left and when the game would end. If the score was tied or close there is an amount of anxiety or urgency to score or to stop your opponent.

This event is similar to the second coming of the Savior. We do not know the hour or the day or the exact moment the game will be over. But we do know that it will be soon. But, unlike the soccer game, we know who is going to win this game. All we need to do is pay the price and be worthy to be on the right team.

Now is the time for us to prepare to meet God – I know that my words aren’t comparable to King Benjamin’s. But I pray that we will each open our hearts to allow the spirit to bare witness of this great work as we are here today, and we too will have no more desire to do evil but good continually.

(Stake Conf. Sat. night) Spiritual preparedness

(Stake Conf. Sat. night)

Our theme for this conference in found in –

D& C. 1: 12

Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is nigh;

The phrase “be prepared” or “being prepared”, I believe brings a number of different thoughts to each of us. To many it would be that of emergency preparedness, including food storage or a 72 hour kit. Which are extremely important and someday many of us may wish we had been more faithful in following that counsel. Many would think of the Scout motto – and the experiences most of us have had as a scout, scout leader or parents. Some would think of preparing for a talk or lesson, the time for preparation is over for me and those sitting on the stand.

Many times these and other situations having to do with preparedness – can bring fear or anxiety to many if not most of us (especially being a scout leader). In modern revelation the Lord had promised that “if ye are prepared ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30).

Our theme is given in the first section of the Doctrine and Covenants – but, it wasn’t the first of the revelations given to the Prophet Joseph Smith in that book. In the section heading it reads –

This section constitutes the Lord’s Preface to the doctrines, covenants, and commandments given in this dispensation.

Taken in context, it is given to “ye people of my church” (vs. 1) about the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It’s a voice of warning unto all people, by the mouths of (His) disciples, whom (He has) chosen in these last days (vs.4). Elder Oaks stated that “the Second Coming is an event eagerly awaited by the righteous and dreaded or denied by the wicked.”

I guess the question that we need to ask ourselves is which emotions would overcome us if such an event would happen today – would it be excitement or dread.

Alma asked such a searching question to the saints at his time on whether they are prepared or not –

Alma 5: 27 -28

Have ye walked, keeping yourselves blameless before God? Could ye say, if ye were called to die at this time, within yourselves, that ye have been sufficiently humble? That your garments have been cleansed and made white through the blood of Christ, who will come to redeem his people from their sins?

Behold, are ye stripped of pride? I say unto you, if ye are not ye are not prepared to meet God. Behold ye must prepare quickly; for the kingdom of heaven is soon at hand, and such an one hath not eternal life.

Logically the only thing that should scare us is if we are not prepared.

Saints and Prophets throughout history have continually looked at Second Coming as one the greatest event that will ever happen. Taking a back seat only, to the Atonement and the triumphal death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Elder Oaks in conference a couple of years ago asked –

What if the day of His coming were tomorrow? If we knew that we would meet the Lord tomorrow – through our premature death or through His unexpected coming—what would we do today? What confessions would we make? What practices would we discontinue? What accounts would we settle? What forgiveness would we extend? What testimonies would we bear?

If we would do these things then, why not now? Why not seek peace while peace can be obtained? If our lamps of preparations are drawn down, let us start immediately to replenish them.

We need to make both temporal and spiritual preparations for the events prophesied at the time of the Second Coming. And the preparation most likely to be neglected is the one less visible and more difficult – the spiritual.

I think it is obvious that most of us would act differently if we knew that today was our last day on the earth. I wouldn’t get a hair cut or even shave – especially since they don’t happen very often anyway. I wouldn’t worry about what I ate or if I had exercised or not. These aren’t what Elder Oaks or Alma where referring to – they were talking about things of a spiritual nature, our last and final preparations, to stand before our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

If you’re anything like me, these preparations couldn’t all be accomplished in a day. Nor does the Lord require us to be finished or perfect in our eternal progression on a moments notice. But, there are a lot of things that could be taken care of now that aren’t, there are fences to mend, lost sheep to be found and testimonies to be born.

The life and mission of the Savior was wholly dedicated and centered on the will of the Father and the redemption and salvation of mankind.

A question we should evaluate is if such a short-term preparation was to take place, where our thoughts or actions would be centered – for the benefit of others like the Savior or internal, more concern on what will happen to us. I know that I would need some personal time. But, I hope like Lehi, I would want to bless my family and express my love and appreciation for them. Then why don’t I spend the time to do it now? Indeed at that moment the time for preparation is over.

Alma 34:32 –

For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors.

Now is the time for us to put things in order – or at least to show our desires to come unto Christ. To lay aside our favorite sins and prepare both physically and spiritually.

Thankfully, to the righteous the Savior will not come unexpectedly – no we will not know exactly the hour or the day.

The Savior used a parable to help His follower to understand -

Matt 24:32-33

Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:

So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the door.

When the leaves come on the trees we know that summer is nigh – what are the leaves that show us His coming is close?

Some of these signs include –

- Fulness of gospel restored and preached in all the world

- False Christ’s and false prophets

- Wars and rumors of wars

- Earthquakes in divers places

- Famine and pestilence

- Desolating sickness covering the land

- Iniquity abound

- Whole earth in commotion

- Men’s hearts failing them

These events or leaves will and are increasing in frequency. All of us have known this for years.

Brothers and sisters, we have all heard the parable of the 10 virgins many times. I have had a hard time understanding why half of them were waiting for the bride groom with their lamps in hand, knowing that they had no oil. Could it be that they had been told so many times that He was coming that they have become complacent, or have been deceived that it really will never happen.

D&C 42: 56-57

And at that day, when I shall come in my glory, shall the parable be fulfilled which I spake concerning the ten virgins.

For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day.

In the scriptures we learn that Noah preached for more than a hundred years – no wonder those that didn’t have the Spirit with them – were surprised when the rain actually began to fall.

The answer to our problem is included in the scripture – they that are wise, and receive the truth. Then have taken the Holy Spirit as their guide – shall abide the day.

All of us at baptism and when we partake of the sacrament - have the promise that if we are obedient the Holy Spirit will always be with us.

Following the quoting of this scripture – Elder Oaks stated

The other half will be denied entrance because they are not prepared. It is not enough to have received the truth. We must also “have taken the Holy Spirit for [our] guide” and “not [be] deceived.”

How do we take the Holy Spirit for our guide? We must repent of our sins each week and renew our covenants by partaking of the sacrament with clean hands and a pure heart, as we are commanded to do. Only in this way can we have the divine promise that we will “always have his Spirit to be with [us]”. That Spirit is the Holy Ghost, whose mission is to teach us, to lead us to truth, and to testify of the Father and the Son.

The Spirit of the Lord can and should be our guide and will bless us with direction, instruction, and spiritual protection as we allow it. We invite the Holy Ghost into our lives through meaningful personal and family prayer, feasting upon the words of Christ, through diligent and exacting obedience, faithfulness and honoring of covenants, and through dedicated service. And we should avoid anything that causes the Spirit to withdraw it‘s self from our lives.

Elder Bednar stated -

We should also endeavor to discern when we “withdraw [ourselves] from the Spirit of the Lord, that it may have no place in [us] to guide [us] in wisdom’s paths that [we] may be blessed, prospered, and preserved”. Precisely because the promised blessing is that we may always have His Spirit to be with us, we should attend to and learn from the choices and influences that separate us from the Holy Spirit.

Taking “the Holy Spirit for [our] guide” is possible and is essential for our spiritual growth and survival in an increasingly wicked world. Sometimes as Latter-day Saints we talk and act as though recognizing the influence of the Holy Ghost in our lives is the rare or exceptional event. We should remember, however, that the covenant promise is that we may always have His Spirit to be with us. This supernal blessing applies to every single member of the Church who has been baptized, confirmed, and instructed to “receive the Holy Ghost.”

The companionship of the Holy Ghost is the endless supply of oil for our spiritual preparation or lamps. The Spirit will help us to be able to know where and what we need to do, it motivates us unto repentance and truly dedicated service.

The last three verses of section 1 – the Lord gives us counsel and bears witness of the true of His word.

37 Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.

38 What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.

39 For behold, and lo, the Lord is God, and the spirit beareth record, and the record is true, and the truth abideth forever and ever. Amen.

Brothers and sisters, the rest of tonight and tomorrow we will hear from individuals – testifying for the need to prepare in different areas of our lives. This counsel will mean nothing or we may heed it like the unwise virgins, if we don’t have the spirit as our guide. We need to prepare now, first to invite the Holy Ghost as our constant companion. This is done by putting our lives in order – and coming unto Christ.

(Eastridge 2006 )Taking offence

(Eastridge 2006)

Brothers & sisters – it’s a pleasure to speak in my home ward! (Jokes and comments) - Close to home or with those that know their faults. Most of you know human side. (Church Ball)

A few years ago some of my so called friends were at a gathering at which a group of educators were discussing the worse students they have had over the years. One teacher started to tell about the worse she had ever seen and started to tell some of the things – I had supposedly done, none of which I had. I think she had rolled up every bad experience she had had and decided to give me credit. Many of those things at one point of my life I would have been happy to get credit for. In her defense I know I did some things that I shouldn’t have that gave her reason to remember me. I asked my friends if they defended me – since he was my counselor in the Bishopric – to which he said “heck no”. I think they were just enjoying the moment. The sobering part of this story is that she still held malice for me after all those years.

I grew up in a humble home where extra money was in short supply – for that reason I got a paper route to have a little spending money. If I wanted school lunch that came out of my own money – I remember buying some of my own clothes, as well as any extras I wanted. I remember once I wanted a kite – a black one with a scull and cross bones across the front. I lived across the street from the Whitter School on third north here in Logan and went to the play ground to fly my kite.

It was great as it scoured into the air. Then all the sudden there was a hole in my kite and it began to fall to the earth. I was devastated and had no idea what had happened. As I looked around there was a young man my age looking out his second story window with a pelt gun in his hand. He had shot my kite out of the air. I guess I should have thought – that was a great shot – but he had just destroyed my kite. I still remember he never apologized or offered to buy me a new kite.

Another story, I have told a number of times from this pulpit, isn’t about me - but my father – his mother died from complications of his birth, leaving his father alone with this little baby. Shortly there after he remarried – but his new wife was unwilling to treat my father him like one of her own, forced the issue, and my father was put into foster homes instead in their home. - More than forty years later, long after my grandfather had passed away, this stepmother met my father again and pleaded for his forgiveness, for what she had done to him as a child.

Brothers and sisters - every one of us have a number of stories where we or someone else has done something or acted in a stupid or inappropriate manner. They have caused many to become bitter, critical, and in some cases inactive in the church of Jesus Christ.

In our last conference – Elder Bednar gave a talk that made a big stir throughout the church. Two weeks ago as I was attending this ward, it was discussed four times in the three meetings that I attended. Could it be that too many of us can relate more than we are willing to admit. Have we taken offence or been the cause of someone else taking offence.

Elder David A. Bednar
of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles –

When we believe or say we have been offended, we usually mean we feel insulted, mistreated, snubbed, or disrespected. And certainly clumsy, embarrassing, unprincipled, and mean-spirited things do occur in our interactions with other people that would allow us to take offense. However, it ultimately is impossible for another person to offend you or to offend me. Indeed, believing that another person offended us is fundamentally false. To be offended is a choice we make; it is not a condition inflicted or imposed upon us by someone or something else.

First he stated that indeed events happen that are inappropriate, many times unintentionally that allow other to take offense.

One of these sobering times for me, took place when I was Bishop of this ward, as a family was having a major crisis’. They came to me for help – the first thing that they told me was that they almost hadn’t come because they thought I didn’t like them. The events that led to that conclusion were unintentional and completely unknown to me.

The scriptures are full of such example – can you imagine how the world would be if Ishmael’s and Esau’s descendents had no hard feeling for Jacob descendents especially the Jews. The starting of the Laminite and Nephite wars were because of differences between brothers. There are many other factors that have evolved over the centuries, but like the teacher that can’t remember why she didn’t like me as one of her students, if not taken care of, feeling of bitterness can enter our souls and cloud even the reasons we feel hurt, or have taken offence.

Because of human faults those serving in the church aren’t immune to offensive behavior.

Since the beginning of this dispensation the Lord has prepared his Prophet by calling them as the President of the Quorum of the Twelve first. The first President of the Quorum of the Twelve in this dispensation was Thomas B. Marsh. But he and his wife allowed themselves to take offence over something as inconsequential as sharing milk with a neighbor. Ultimately losing his position as well as their membership in the church. Brigham Young, on the other hand, was severely and publicly rebuked by the Prophet Joseph Smith, far worse than Brother Marsh, but he chose not to take offense.

Thankfully, I have been lucky enough to fall in the later category. Despite the fact the Bishop Larsen shot down my kite – I with out hesitation support and sustain him as our Bishop and as a man of God. The way that we react to these types of actions is our choice.

Elder Bednar -

In many instances, choosing to be offended is a symptom of a much deeper and more serious spiritual malady. Thomas B. Marsh allowed himself to be acted upon, and the eventual results were apostasy and misery. Brigham Young was an agent who exercised his agency and acted in accordance with correct principles, and he became a mighty instrument in the hands of the Lord.

That’s a hard statement for those of us that have taken offence to the actions of others. Could it be that spiritually we have some work to do?

1 Nephi 19:9 – is an example – of the Savior Jesus Christ

"And the world, because of their iniquity, shall judge him to be a thing of naught; wherefore they scourge him, and he suffereth it; and they smite him, and he suffereth it. Yea, they spit upon him, and he suffereth it, because of his loving kindness and his long-suffering towards the children of men"

It’s interesting to me that those that try to offend – as it stated do so “because of their iniquity” but the Savior “suffered it”. Why – “because of his loving kindness”.

The Savior should be our example when such situations come – our goal is to understand each others weaknesses and to have Christ like love and forgiveness. That is easier said than done. As we repent of our sins the Lord has promised to remember them no more – he has also told us too forgive our trespassers. If we want his forgiveness, we must be willing to give ours.

This is the very essence of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. We can only make the Atonement effective in our lives as we sacrifice our whole souls to the will of the Father. We must learn His will and follow it.

Psalm 199:165

"Great peace has they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them"

First we need to know the law, then as the scripture states to love it. This is achieved by study and becoming more Christ like.

As we forgive others their trespasses – that does not relieve them of their responsibility to repent and many times to make restitution. Sadly if that isn’t done by them, our forgiveness process becomes much harder.

But, the Savior upon the Cross continued this process – as he prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what ^they do.” He never shut the door that would allow His transgressor to come unto Him and to be clean. He never continued to bring up pass events or hold malice for mistakes or shortcoming that each of us continually make, and nether should we.

I believe most us - are holding on to some form of distain for another or could reach out to a family member, either close or extended, that needs a little extra love or nurturing. Most of us have been the cause of suffering or pain to another because of our actions. Sometimes the problem is that we have no idea that person has taken offence.

Elder Bednar -

The capacity to conquer offense may seem beyond our reach. …. The very nature of the Redeemer's Atonement and the purpose of the restored Church are intended to help us receive precisely this kind of spiritual strength.

Elder Bednar then likened the Church of Jesus Christ to a “Learning Laboratory” – I love this analogy, the teacher becomes a better teacher as they teach. We become more like the Savior Jesus Christ as we learn and apply His teachings.

He stated -

Understanding that the Church is a learning laboratory helps us to prepare for an inevitable reality. In some way and at some time, someone in this Church will do or say something that could be considered offensive. Such an event will surely happen to each and every one of us—and it certainly will occur more than once. Though people may not intend to injure or offend us, they nonetheless can be inconsiderate and tactless.

The problem with the learning laboratory is that each of us is learning at different paces and even different lessons. I guarantee you that maybe one minute, or maybe an hour – or even a day Bishop Larsen has been a bad Bishop during his first year of service. But so has every other Bishop or leader in the Church, including myself. When they know they have done something wrong – hopefully they can take care of it, and learn for the next opportunity to serve.

These learning experiences are very difficult for many of us, they become much easier as we encourage and support each other rather than to criticize or find fault.

If taking offence is a sign of more serious spiritual weaknesses – the higher road is to do everything in our power, not only to not take offence but when we learn that others are having a hard time with ours or others actions, we should ask for forgiveness and try to make things right. You may learn that from their point of view it may have been hard for you to accept as well.

There are numerous examples of individuals who have risen to great heights, despite reasons or opportunities to feel sorry for themselves or give up.

- Joseph who was sold into Egypt as a slave by his brothers. Then was accused by Potiphar’s wife of misconduct. Despite this, and because of his faithfulness, the Lord blessed him and raised him up too be the second most powerful man in the most powerful country in the world. Then he was then able to help those that had despised him and persecuted him.

- One that I hold in as high esteem is my father – despite his early childhood, he found the Church of Jesus Christ and raised ten children and has sixty grandchildren. Never have any of us questioned whether he had a testimony of God the Father and the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He was the best father and teacher I could have had.

The Greatest example is that of the life and mission of the Lord and Savior - Jesus Christ. Despite being perfect and sinless he suffered every temptation, every pain and sorrow – was persecuted beyond belief or comparison. But, because he was perfect and sinless he paid the price of sin – answered the end of the law. Why? Because of his loving kindness” for every one of us.

In speaking about the Savior-

MOSIAH 15: 10-12

10 And now I say unto you, who shall declare his ^ageneration? Behold, I say unto you, that when his soul has been made an offering for ^bsin he shall see his ^cseed. And now what say ye? And who shall be his seed?

11 Behold I say unto you, that whosoever has heard the words of the ^aprophets, yea, all the holy prophets who have prophesied concerning the coming of the Lord—I say unto you, that all those who have hearkened unto their words, and believed that the Lord would redeem his people, and have looked forward to that day for a remission of their sins, I say unto you, that these are his seed, or they are the heirs of the ^bkingdom of God.

12 For these are they whose sins ^ahe has borne; these are they for whom he has died, to redeem them from their transgressions. And now, are they not his seed?

When we are baptized into the church – we take upon us the name of Christ, we are confirmed and member of His Church. We make covenants and promises that we renew each week as we partake of the sacrament.

But, this does not make us His seed. As the scripture states we must hearken and believe in the works of God and His prophets, looking forward for a remission of our sins. These are action words – which can not be achieved by being a passive bystander in the kingdom of God.

If we are true followers of Christ and members of His church would we need a talk like this one?

Mosiah 3: 19

19 For the ^anatural ^bman is an ^cenemy to God, and has been from the ^dfall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he ^eyields to the enticings of the Holy ^fSpirit, and ^gputteth off the ^hnatural man and becometh a ⁱsaint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a ^jchild, ^ksubmissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father.

Brothers and sister – you are wonderful! I would like to ask – what difference will our time here today make in our lives and our relationship with the Savior Jesus Christ. We have partaken of the sacrament – renewing our covenants.

Let’s put off the natural man

– forgive someone that has treated us poorly

– ask for forgiveness for our shortcomings

– forgive and forget past actions of others

– remember the Savior won’t remember them any more

Why should we?

The irony of this topic is that someone here today, may have taken offence with what has been said – or with the messenger, because of my personal weaknesses. If any of you have taken offence because of me over the years – I’m sorry and ask for your forgiveness. I have faults and weaknesses – but a blessing, I have that I’m thankful for is my testimony -