Friday, September 16, 2005

   Hi!
"We rejoice in the knowledge of the living Christ, and we reverently acknowledge the miracles He continues to work today."
—Elder M. Russell Ballard
Ensign, May 2000, 32

2 NEPHI 28
30 For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have.

2 NEPHI 28
32 Wo be unto the Gentiles, saith the Lord God of Hosts! For notwithstanding I shall lengthen out mine arm unto them from day to day, they will deny me; nevertheless, I will be merciful unto them, saith the Lord God, if they will repent and come unto me; for mine arm is lengthened out all the day long, saith the Lord God of Hosts.

2 Nephi 27
1 BUT behold, there shall be many—at that day when I shall proceed to do a marvelous work among them, that I may remember my covenants which I have made unto the children of men, that I may set my hand again the second time to recover my people, which are of the house of Israel;
2 And also, that I may remember the promises which I have made unto thee, Nephi, and also unto thy father, that I would remember your seed; and that the words of your seed should proceed forth out of my mouth unto your seed; and my words shall hiss forth unto the ends of the earth, for a standard unto my people, which are of the house of Israel;

7 Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth?
8 Wherefore murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And when the two nations shall run together the testimony of the two nations shall run together also.
9 And I do this that I may prove unto many that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and that I speak forth my words according to mine own pleasure. And because that I have spoken one word ye need not suppose that I cannot speak another; for my work is not yet finished; neither shall it be until the end of man, neither from that time henceforth and forever.
10 Wherefore, because that ye have a Bible ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that I have not caused more to be written.

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Fact of the day: There are two types of herding dogs, drivers and gatherers. Border collies are gatherers. They naturally go to the other side of the herd and bring it to you. Australian shepherds are drivers. They drive the herd away from you. It is all based on natural insticts, and the different types can be learned.

And just because a dog is of a herding breed doesn't mean that dog will be a good herding dog.
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Wednesday, September 14, 2005

Scriptures for the day
2 Nephi 26:23-28
For behold, my beloved brethren, I say unto you that the Lord God worketh not in darkness.
He doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world; for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw all men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation.
Behold, doth he cry unto any, saying: Depart from me? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; but he saith: Come unto me all ye ends of the earth, buy milk and honey, without money and without price.
Behold, hath he commanded any that they should depart out of the synagogues, or out of the houses of worship? Behold, I say unto you, Nay.
Hath he commanded any that they should not partake of his salvation? Behold I say unto you, Nay; but he hath given it free for all men; and he hath commanded his people that they should persuade all men to repentance.
Behold, hath the Lord commanded any that they should not partake of his goodness? Behold I say unto you, Nay; but all men are privileged the one like unto the other, and none are forbidden.

2 Nephi 27:15-23
But behold, it shall come to pass that the Lord God shall say unto him to whom he shall deliver the book: Take these words which are not sealed and deliver them to another, that he may show them unto the learned, saying: Read this, I pray thee. And the learned shall say: Bring hither the book, and I will read them.
And now, because of the glory of the world and to get gain will they say this, and not for the glory of God.
And the man shall say: I cannot bring the book, for it is sealed.
Then shall the learned say: I cannot read it.
Wherefore it shall come to pass, that the Lord God will deliver again the book and the words thereof to him that is not learned; and the man that is not learned shall say: I am not learned.
Then shall the Lord God say unto him: The learned shall not read them, for they have rejected them, and I am able to do mine own work; wherefore thou shalt read the words which I shall give unto thee.
Touch not the things which are sealed, for I will bring them forth in mine own due time; for I will show unto the children of men that I am able to do mine own work.
Wherefore, when thou hast read the words which I have commanded thee, and obtained the witnesses which I have promised unto thee, then shalt thou seal up the book again, and hide it up unto me, that I may preserve the words which thou hast not read, until I shall see fit in mine own wisdom to reveal all things unto the children of men.
For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles; and I will show unto the world that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and I work not among the children of men save it be according to their faith.
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Tuesday, September 13, 2005

   Please!
For Philfoula individually, and everyone just as much! If they want to.... :D

Read yesterday's post, please. It was another late posting.

Love, hugs, and God be with you. Godspeed.
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Monday, September 12, 2005

   Thanks!
Thank you, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint's website--the one True and Living Church of God the Father and Jesus Christ on the earth today. You can also call or write:

1-800-622-5595

Teachings
50 East North Temple Street, 3rd West Wing
Salt Lake City, UT
84150
USA

If either or both of those are outdated, please write me, and I'll get the correct information.

Love, hugs, and God, Jesus Christ, and Their Spirit will be with you as you sincerely seek Truth.

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“Remember How Merciful the Lord Hath Been”
a talk given by Elder Neal A. Maxwell, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, in General Conference of April 2004

Brethren, there are clusters of memories embedded in each of your lives. And these can help us to "remember how merciful the Lord hath been" (Moroni 10:3). He certainly has been to me!
Brethren, as you submit your wills to God, you are giving Him the only thing you can actually give Him that is really yours to give. Don't wait too long to find the altar or to begin to place the gift of your wills upon it! No need to wait for a receipt; the Lord has His own special ways of acknowledging.
I testify to you that God has known you individually, brethren, for a long, long time (see D&C 93:23). He has loved you for a long, long time. He not only knows the names of all the stars (see Psalm 147:4; Isaiah 40:26); He knows your names and all your heartaches and your joys! By the way, you have never seen an immortal star; they finally expire. But seated by you tonight are immortal individuals—imperfect but who are, nevertheless, "trying to be like Jesus"! In His name, even Jesus Christ, amen.

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2 Nephi 25:3
Wherefore, I write unto my people, unto all those that shall receive hereafter these things which I write, that they may know the judgments of God, that they come upon all nations, according to the word which he hath spoken.

2 Nephi 25:23
For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.

2 Nephi 25:20
And now, my brethren, I have spoken plainly that ye cannot err. And as the Lord God liveth that brought Israel up out of the land of Egypt, and gave unto Moses power that he should heal the nations after they had been bitten by the poisonous serpents, if they would cast their eyes unto the serpent which he did raise up before them, and also gave him power that he should smite the rock and the water should come forth; yea, behold I say unto you, that as these things are true, and as the Lord God liveth, there is none other name given under heaven save it be this Jesus Christ, of which I have spoken, whereby man can be saved.

2 Nephi 25:28
And now behold, my people, ye are a stiffnecked people; wherefore, I have spoken plainly unto you, that ye cannot misunderstand. And the words which I have spoken shall stand as a testimony against you; for they are sufficient to teach any man the right way; for the right way is to believe in Christ and deny him not; for by denying him ye also deny the prophets and the law.


2 Nephi 25:13
Behold, they will crucify him; and after he is laid in a sepulchre for the space of three days he shall rise from the dead, with healing in his wings; and all those who shall believe on his name shall be saved in the kingdom of God. Wherefore, my soul delighteth to prophesy concerning him, for I have seen his day, and my heart doth magnify his holy name.

(FYI--The wings are figurative.)

2 Nephi 25:16
And after they have been scattered, and the Lord God hath scourged them by other nations for the space of many generations, yea, even down from generation to generation until they shall be persuaded to believe in Christ, the Son of God, and the atonement, which is infinite for all mankind—and when that day shall come that they shall believe in Christ, and worship the Father in his name, with pure hearts and clean hands, and look not forward any more for another Messiah, then, at that time, the day will come that it must needs be expedient that they should believe these things.

2 Nephi 25:6
But behold, I, Nephi, have not taught my children after the manner of the Jews; but behold, I, of myself, have dwelt at Jerusalem, wherefore I know concerning the regions round about; and I have made mention unto my children concerning the judgments of God, which hath come to pass among the Jews, unto my children, according to all that which Isaiah hath spoken, and I do not write them.
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Some good verses from 2 Nephi 25, a chapter concerning Jesus, the true Christ, and the Jews, a part of the people of Israel. I hope they are helpful to you guys. Stay strong.

And I have a suggestion, a challenge--read the Book of Mormon! (Our Church, as a whole, has been challenged to read it again before the end of this year.) Good fortune, all, with your good endeavors. Faith, Godspeed, and God our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love youFaith. ^_^

Love!

Mom and Blue were in a sheepdog trial on Saturday. And guess what? They got their best placing ever in the Novice-Novice class. First!

Also, Blue and Mudpie got identification tattoos. (That and a hearing test were the reasons Mudpie went.) We don't agree with tattoos just for the fun of it, but animal id tattoos are different and helpful in finding a creature's home, since it cannot tell you where it lives. We did joke about it, though. The id is a number, but Mom said she'd considering getting Motorcycle Border Babe for Mudpie (since she's a Border Collie) and I said Blue should get a heart that said Mom on it, since he's a momma's boy--and very cute about it, too. It was fun to joke about. Of course, the one for Mudpie resulted in an image of her in a motorcyle outfit--helmet and leather jacket. XD

Anyway...I probably will be going back to school next year, so I can get a Master's, in a more marketable major than the one my Bachelor's is in. It will give me time to start paying off my current student loans, though, and possibly save some money for the future education.
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Did you know that the fiery serpent that Moses raised on the staff, after Israel rebelled and was plagued by "fiery flying serpents" (something like that)--well, the serpent raised on a staff was a symbol indicative of Jesus Christ. And all the people needed to do was look upon it. They needed to have that faith, and possibly put forth the effort if it was a different of the camp. But that was all.

Anyway, that is one of many symbols in the scriptures of Jesus Christ, along with the passover and the lamb. They're neat to learn about!
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*Who wants to see the Chronicles of Narnia?*

I do, I do! I knew they could make good movies of the Narnia books nowadays. I mean, really good quality. As long as they stay true to the essential story, as well. ^_^

*Ah, yes. Equus has the set...though she lent it to her friend last spring semester, and of course now wants to read it again. Her friend didn't get around to reading it before the end of the semester, but Equus isn't concerned. Except that she wants to read the books.*

The Horse and His Boy! The Silver Chair. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. And, of course, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe!

*And Aslan, of course. The books central character, in reality. He is a wonderful character. :-)*

And the kids that the books feature. I love Lucy and Edmund, and Eustace and Pole. What's her Christian name, again?

*I don't remember. I think it's Jane or Jean, or something like that.*

K-c, you'd like Aslan. He's a lion in the books. ^_^ And He's the Lord King of All.

-Yeah. I mean--what?-

Oh, are you reading? What is it? (grabs books) Ah-ha, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe! That looks like my copy. Wait a minute. This is my copy! She did send it back? You intercepted it!

-(grabs books and runs for it)-

K-c, get back here. Those are mine! You can ask, and I'd lend them to you. You're not listening. K-c, where are you! (runs to find him)

*Anyway, great books. C S Lewis was an inspired man in those books and other times in his life, as well. As we can all be, if we are sensitive to the Holy Ghost's promptings and inspirations. Have a good day. Oh, and since K-c is currently unavailable, we have someone else to hand out your packs of pocket hugs to help you feel happy and befriended throughout the days.*

~Here are you pocket hugs. Have a good day. ^/^ I hope Equus doesn't see me.~

*Why?*

~Because these envelopes have hearts on them!~

*But they're not pink envelopes, at least. Equus isn't too big on pink.*

~Still...-.-Purple isn't manly, either.~

*But you look so cute. And red is a good color. See it there?*

~It's still a heart!~

*Yes, that's true. But trust me, Equus would think you looked cute if she saw you. And she'd be grateful to you for helping.*

~Well...I suppose....~

*It's for her and everyone who visits.*

~True....^_^ Here are you pocket hugs. Have a nice day!~

Godspeed, brothers and sister. Love and hugs.
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Fact of the day: Cheetahs are the fastest land mammals, but only for short amounts of time. On a related, yet unrelated note, a properly conditioned human can cover at least 40 miles a day on foot. Back in the old days, people could go far if they needed to, though it doesn't compare to the distances we can cover nowadays, at least in some areas, with cars, planes, etc.

Please pray for and help the people of New Orleans and all others who need our help. And remember--We will not forget!

May God be with you. Love and hugs.
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Friday, September 9, 2005

   Hi!
“There is always a voice that guides us..now it's our choice to listen to it or not....”

Thank you, katocool, for that wonderful comment. It is true. Here’s the story katocool was responding to. I’m reposting it since I only posted it (like I so often have done) a couple hours before “midnight”.

I had a long day at work. I was grumpy and tired (because of sleep deprivation, really) and I needed to go home. I wanted to pause at Wendy's or stop at Burger King on the way home to get something. But a little voice kept saying, "Don't. Go straight home."

Mom had asked me to go straight home, because she had put the groceries in the car I had probably before 5:30. I was supposed to get off at 6:30, it was a sunny day, and there were perishable groceries. I actually got off at 7:00. Also, the dogs had last had one of us home at 10:00--me, when I left for work. So I submitted to this thought, "Don't stop, no matter how brief it may be."

When I got home, my dad was still there. He had called as I was driving home, but I hadn't found the cell phone in time to answer. There was a broken fence along the calves' pasture, and he wanted my help with it. He was tired, as well, and he had probably 3-4 hours to drive this evening. It got dark even as we were fixing the fence, and I need to finish it tomorrow. Thankfully, the fence isn't a roadside one, but between two fields. The second field contains haybales that we need for winter, though, so it was important.

And thankfully, I listened to that still, small voice. Coincidence? I think not. It happens too much in the world to be coincidence.

Help each other for brotherly and sisterly love and for God's love. In Jesus Christ's holy name, amen.

Hugs, love, and serve! Faith.
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Burr, our little grey cat, and Socks, our black-and-white cat, are cute lil critters. Socks likes to go on walks, has tried to help work cattle, and loves humans. She seems to be more like a stereotypical dog than cat.
By the way, the names I use on this site for people and animals I know are almost never their real names. No offense, but I feel safer that way.
And I found something odd. I was visiting websites, and I saw something small dodging behind the title of one site. It got away, but it left some very…unusual marks.

I’ll see if I can’t get closer, if I see one of them again.
Party coming up soon! Look forward to something later on in October. Closer to November. Okay? Love, and hugs. Take care out there, especially in reality and also in pretend.
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Hurricane Katrina has awoken us to the suffering of our fellowman, here in the USA. May we help each other everywhere, and at every time in our life. For even not in the time of horrific natural or human-begun disasters, there is the need for help in our lives. We can give and feel kind, God-like love in service.
My church, at least in my area, is collecting collapsible luggage for hurricane victims. Though I haven’t been very good at this, let’s see what you can do today! For whoever needs your help in your area. We can’t all help victims of every disaster.
“Nobody can do everything, but everybody can do something.”
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D&C 93:20-22 (emphasis added—as usual ^-^)
For if you keep my commandments you shall receive of his fulness, and be glorified in me as I am in the Father; therefore, I say unto you, you shall receive grace for grace.
And now, verily I say unto you, I [Jesus Christ] was in the beginning with the Father, and am the Firstborn;
And all those who are begotten through me are partakers of the glory of the same, and are the church of the Firstborn.

2 Nephi 7:6-7
I gave my back to the smiter, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair. I hid not my face from shame and spitting.
For the Lord God will help me, therefore shall I not be confounded. Therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.
(Hard as it may be to follow, this is one of Christ’s examples to us. Have faith, brothers and sisters. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are here to help you, even if it isn’t always easy to see how. Do you always understand your parents’ rules and advice? I know parents aren’t perfect, because they are human just as we are. But Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are perfect. Have faith. Love.)

2 Ne. 17: 14-17, 21-22
Therefore, the Lord himself shall give you a sign—Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and shall bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil and to choose the good.
• • •
And it shall come to pass in that day, a man shall nourish a young cow and two sheep;
And it shall come to pass, for the abundance of milk they shall give he shall eat butter; for butter and honey shall every one eat that is left in the land.

2 Ne. 18: 10-12, 16, 20
Take counsel together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word, and it shall not stand; for God is with us.
For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying:
Say ye not, A confederacy, to all to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.
• • •

Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.
• • •
To the law and to the testimony; and if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.
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Fact of the day: The mandolin. What is it?

“[A] musical instrument of the lute family, with a half-pear-shaped body, a fretted neck, and a variable number of strings, plucked with the fingers or with a plectrum. The earlier mandolin, with five double strings, was developed from the mandola, a 17th-century lute. The Neapolitan mandolin, a smaller type having four pairs of strings, became popular in the 18th cent. and is the usual present-day mandolin. In popular music it is generally played with a tremolo motion. Notable uses of the mandolin in serious music are in Mozart's Don Giovanni and in pieces by Beethoven and Mahler.”

(from Answers.com, mandolin, the Encyclopedia section from or by Columbia University Press)

(from the same site) A plectrum is “[a] small thin piece of metal, plastic, bone, or similar material, used to pluck the strings of certain instruments, such as the guitar or lute.”

I own a fretted, or Appalachian, dulcimer, and Refi own a mandolin! Thanks again, Refi, for the suggested topics!
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2 Ne. 19: 2-3, 6-8 (emphasis added)
The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light; they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.
Thou hast multiplied the nation, and increased the joy—they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.
• • •
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called, Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of government and peace there is no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will perform this.
The Lord sent his word unto Jacob and it hath lighted upon Israel.

The Profound Power of Gratitude
President Thomas S. Monson, Liahona and Ensign, September 2005, 2–8
The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Corinthians, proclaimed, 'Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.' And to the Thessalonians, 'In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God.' Do we give thanks to God 'for his unspeakable gift' and His rich blessings so abundantly bestowed upon us?

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are perfect. They will take care of us. Trust Them. Believe and have faith in God. Love. Hugs. Take care.
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Thursday, September 8, 2005

   Something that happened....
I had a long day at work. I was grumpy and tired (because of sleep deprivation, really) and I needed to go home. I wanted to pause at Wendy's or stop at Burger King on the way home to get something. But a little voice kept saying, "Don't. Go straight home."

Mom had asked me to go straight home, because she had put the groceries in the car I had probably before 5:30. I was supposed to get off at 6:30, it was a sunny day, and there were perishable groceries. I actually got off at 7:00. Also, the dogs had last had one of us home at 10:00--me, when I left for work. So I submitted to this thought, "Don't stop, no matter how brief it may be."

When I got home, my dad was still there. He had called as I was driving home, but I hadn't found the cell phone in time to answer. There was a broken fence along the calves' pasture, and he wanted my help with it. He was tired, as well, and he had probably 3-4 hours to drive this evening. It got dark even as we were fixing the fence, and I need to finish it tomorrow. Thankfully, the fence isn't a roadside one, but between two fields. The second field contains haybales that we need for winter, though, so it was important.

And thankfully, I listened to that still, small voice. Coincidence? I think not. It happens too much in the world to be coincidence.

Help each other for brotherly and sisterly love and for God's love. In Jesus Christ's holy name, amen.

Friend love. Hugs.
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   from “Strengthen Thy Brethren”, a talk given by Elder Mervyn B. Arnold of the Seventy

I am grateful for the example of the Good Shepherd, who did not give up until He had His lost sheep safely home; for the examples of President Thomas S. Monson, who while serving as a bishop left his flock in the care of the adviser and went to the West Temple Garage to rescue Richard from a grease pit (see "The Aaronic Priesthood Pathway," Ensign, Nov. 1984, 41); of Brother Marques, who rescued Fernando from the ocean; of a quorum adviser and various quorum members I am well acquainted with who knocked on Scott's bedroom window every Sunday morning for six months, fellowshipped and loved him, until Scott returned to the fold; and for the examples of many of you who have gone the extra mile until you have found that which was lost. Your efforts will have an eternal effect on the lives of your quorum members and their posterity for generations to come. They will be living testimonies of the promise given by the Savior when He said: "Feed the flock of God which is among you, . . . and when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away" (1 Peter 5:2, 4), "that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father" (D&C 15:6), and "how great will be your joy" (D&C 18:16).
May each quorum and each one of us individually, working in conjunction with the councils of the Church, follow the example of our Lord and Savior to "take . . . him that is weak, . . . that he may become strong also" (D&C 84:106). I bear humble witness that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, that the Book of Mormon is scripture, that President Gordon B. Hinckley is indeed a prophet of God, that Jesus Christ is the Redeemer and the Good Shepherd, and that He lives. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

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We should do help each other out of love. Remember that.

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Revelation 3:19-22
As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
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D&C 115:3-6, 8
And also unto my faithful servants who are of the high council of my church in Zion, for thus it shall be called, and unto all the elders and people of my Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, scattered abroad in all the world;
For thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Verily I say unto you all: Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations;
And that the gathering together upon the land of Zion, and upon her stakes, may be for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth.
[…]
Therefore, I command you to build a house unto me, for the gathering together of my saints, that they may worship me.

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D&C 93:23-29, 33-36, 38-40
Ye were also in the beginning with the Father; that which is Spirit, even the Spirit of truth;
And truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come;
And whatsoever is more or less than this is the spirit of that wicked one who was a liar from the beginning.
The Spirit of truth is of God. I am the Spirit of truth, and John bore record of me, saying: He received a fulness of truth, yea, even of all truth;
And no man receiveth a fulness unless he keepeth his commandments.
He that keepeth his commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things.
Man was also in the beginning with God. Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be.
[…]
For man is spirit. The elements are eternal, and spirit and element, inseparably connected, receive a fulness of joy;
And when separated, man cannot receive a fulness of joy.
The elements are the tabernacle of God; yea, man is the tabernacle of God, even temples; and whatsoever temple is defiled, God shall destroy that temple.
The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth.
[…]
Every spirit of man was innocent in the beginning; and God having redeemed man from the fall, men became again, in their infant state, innocent before God.
And that wicked one cometh and taketh away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men, and because of the tradition of their fathers.
But I have commanded you to bring up your children in light and truth.

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Fact of the day: The fretted dulcimer originated in the Appalachian mountains, hence one of its other names—the Appalachian dulcimer. Another of its names is the hog fiddle, when it is played with a bow. But that’s a different sound from the lovely music when the strings are strummed or picked. (Thanks to Refi for suggesting today, and tomorrow’s, facts of the day!)
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“Remember How Merciful the Lord Hath Been”
a talk given by Elder Neal A. Maxwell, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, in General Conference of April 2004

Brethren, there are clusters of memories embedded in each of your lives. And these can help us to "remember how merciful the Lord hath been" (Moroni 10:3). He certainly has been to me!
Brethren, as you submit your wills to God, you are giving Him the only thing you can actually give Him that is really yours to give. Don't wait too long to find the altar or to begin to place the gift of your wills upon it! No need to wait for a receipt; the Lord has His own special ways of acknowledging.
I testify to you that God has known you individually, brethren, for a long, long time (see D&C 93:23). He has loved you for a long, long time. He not only knows the names of all the stars (see Psalm 147:4; Isaiah 40:26); He knows your names and all your heartaches and your joys! By the way, you have never seen an immortal star; they finally expire. But seated by you tonight are immortal individuals—imperfect but who are, nevertheless, "trying to be like Jesus"! In His name, even Jesus Christ, amen.
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Wednesday, September 7, 2005

   from "Remember How Merciful the Lord Hath Been" by Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Ensign, May 2004

In 1956, after returning home from several years in Washington, D.C., and having declined several attractive offers there, I received an offer to work at the University of Utah. My wife said I should take it. She said presciently, "I feel if you go there, maybe you will have some influence on students." I replied impatiently, "I'll be typing news releases, not working with students." The subsequent opportunities included being a bishop of a student ward, dean of students, and teaching hundreds of fine students in political science. It wasn't status that mattered, of course, but being stretched and being given opportunities to serve.

[&]

Brethren, there are clusters of memories embedded in each of your lives. And these can help us to "remember how merciful the Lord hath been" (Moroni 10:3). He certainly has been to me!
Brethren, as you submit your wills to God, you are giving Him the only thing you can actually give Him that is really yours to give. Don't wait too long to find the altar or to begin to place the gift of your wills upon it! No need to wait for a receipt; the Lord has His own special ways of acknowledging.
I testify to you that God has known you individually, brethren, for a long, long time (see D&C 93:23). He has loved you for a long, long time. He not only knows the names of all the stars (see Psalm 147:4; Isaiah 40:26); He knows your names and all your heartaches and your joys! By the way, you have never seen an immortal star; they finally expire. But seated by you tonight are immortal individuals—imperfect but who are, nevertheless, "trying to be like Jesus"! In His name, even Jesus Christ, amen.

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From a card:

Purpose to seek Him--He will be your reward.

Purpose to know Him--He will reveal Himself to you.

Purpose to follow Him--He will lead the way.

Purpose to enjoy Him--He will be your closest friend.

Purpose to praise Him--He will be your song.

Purpose to trust Him--He will be your provider.

Purpose to be totally His--He will be totally yours!


Given to me over four years ago by a wonderful couple, loving and spiritual.

It included Psalm 138:8 from a different translation of the Old Testament. I looked up the scripture in the King James Version, including the Joseph Smith Translation (yes, he truly did retranslate, under God's direction, some of the Bible to restore parts lost since originally written). I would encourage you to read Psalm 138.

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Be Grateful.
Be Smart.
Be Clean.
Be True.
Be Humble.
Be Prayerful.

~President Gordon B. Hinckley
November 12, 2000

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La-la-la-la....

*Sorry, Equus is still...floating on air. Anyway, she's working at Wendy's right now. She's not thrilled, but she's had some very helpful and kind people at work. And she's seen someone she knows once every day so far. She's only been working three days, but still, it's neat.*

-She has a Bachelor's degree in English. Why is she working at Wendy's?-

*Because she hasn't put forth the energy to find a real job yet. Sadly, she's very lazy. Haven't you noticed?*

-Yeah. That's sad.-

La-la-la-la...

*In case you don't read Refi's chatbox, Sano finally told Equus he loves her.*

-And she hasn't said much since then. She's been singing. And twirling people around.-

*Yeah...Well (in reality) Equus just found out yesterday that a guy she likes has a girlfriend. But a happy memory is her first time feeling that a guy smiled at her because he thought she was cute. She was at a food place with a friend, and she was smiling or laughing, and this guy smiled back at her.*

^__^ La-la-laa!

*(whispers) By the way, we're going to have a party sometime, hopefully. Tell K-c if you want to be involved.*

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Moroni 10 is one of many powerful chapters in the Book of Mormon.
Please read verses 3-7, a challenge to all the world.

Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.
And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.
And whatsoever thing is good is just and true; wherefore, nothing that is good denieth the Christ, but acknowledgeth that he is.
And ye may aknow that he is, by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore I would exhort you that ye deny not the power of God; for he worketh by power, baccording• to the faith of the children of men, the same today and tomorrow, and forever.

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from “Strengthen Thy Brethren”, a talk given by Elder Mervyn B. Arnold of the Seventy

(introductory quote from talk)
May each quorum and each one of us individually . . . follow the example of our Lord and Savior to "take . . . him that is weak, . . . that he may become strong also."
(excerpts from talk)
Brother José de Souza Marques was the type of leader who truly understood the principle taught by the Savior: "And if any man among you be strong in the Spirit, let him take with him him that is weak, that he may be edified in all meekness, that he may become strong also" (D&C 84:106).
[…]
"That day as we walked out of the ocean, I [Fernando Araujo] was touched by Brother Marques's sincere love and worry for me. He truly understood the Savior's words: 'I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick' (Ezekiel 34:16). Brother Marques didn't just give me a ride to church—the quorum made sure I remained active. They planned activities that made me feel needed and wanted, I received a calling, and the quorum members became my friends."
Following his reactivation, Brother Araujo went on a full-time mission and has served as bishop, stake president, mission president, and regional representative. His widowed mother, three sisters, and several cousins have also entered the waters of baptism.
[…]
"Activities are organized to reach each young man. We discuss each young man in our quorum presidency meetings and in our monthly bishopric youth committee meetings. In 2003 we managed to rescue five priests, one teacher, and two deacons, who are now active in their quorums. We have also reactivated some families and have enjoyed the blessing of seeing some nonmembers enter the waters of baptism."
[…]
The Savior's example of going the extra mile to find His lost sheep is evident throughout the scriptures. "What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine and go into the wilderness after that which is lost, until he find it?" (Joseph Smith Translation, Luke 15:4). The Good Shepherd knew when one of His sheep was missing: "He numbereth his sheep, and they know him" (1 Nephi 22:25), "and he calleth his own sheep by name" (John 10:3). He went "into the wilderness," which at times has been defined as "a confusing multitude or mass" (Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 11th ed. [2003], "wilderness," 1432), and He searched for that which was lost.
We are not told how long it took the Good Shepherd to find the lost sheep or if others helped in the search, but we do know that they "[knew] his voice" (John 10:4) and that He loved them. We also know that He did not give up, that He did "go . . . after that which [was] lost, until he [did] find it," and that when He returned, the lost sheep was safely on His shoulders. And then He exclaims, "Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth" (Luke 15:6–7).
[…]
"As I live, saith the Lord God, surely because my flock became a prey, and my flock became meat to every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my flock; . . .
" . . . I will require my flock at their hand" (vv. […] 8, 10; emphasis added).
The Lord has always required that those He entrusts with His holy priesthood, including fathers, quorum leaders, and quorum members, be held accountable for His flocks. Brethren, we must search and seek out our flocks, and we must not allow our flocks to become "meat to every beast of the field."
In section 20 of the Doctrine and Covenants the Savior teaches us many of our duties as priesthood holders and quorum members. The following action words and phrases underline His sense of urgency: "watch over," "take the lead," "expound," "visit the house of each member," "pray," "strengthen," "warn," "send," "teach," "exhort," "baptize," and "invite all to come unto Christ" (vv. 42, 44, 46–47, 53, 59, 81–82; emphasis added).
I also felt the urgency in President Hinckley's voice when he stated, "Let us, every one, resolve within ourselves to arise to a new opportunity, a new sense of responsibility, a new shouldering of obligation to assist our Father in Heaven in His glorious work of bringing to pass the immortality and eternal life of His sons and daughters throughout the earth" ("Find the Lambs, Feed the Sheep," Liahona, July 1999, 124; Ensign, May 1999, 110).
I am grateful for the example of the Good Shepherd, who did not give up until He had His lost sheep safely home; for the examples of President Thomas S. Monson, who while serving as a bishop left his flock in the care of the adviser and went to the West Temple Garage to rescue Richard from a grease pit (see "The Aaronic Priesthood Pathway," Ensign, Nov. 1984, 41); of Brother Marques, who rescued Fernando from the ocean; of a quorum adviser and various quorum members I am well acquainted with who knocked on Scott's bedroom window every Sunday morning for six months, fellowshipped and loved him, until Scott returned to the fold; and for the examples of many of you who have gone the extra mile until you have found that which was lost. Your efforts will have an eternal effect on the lives of your quorum members and their posterity for generations to come. They will be living testimonies of the promise given by the Savior when He said: "Feed the flock of God which is among you, . . . and when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away" (1 Peter 5:2, 4), "that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father" (D&C 15:6), and "how great will be your joy" (D&C 18:16).
May each [...] each one of us individually, working in conjunction with the councils of the Church, follow the example of our Lord and Savior to "take . . . him that is weak, . . . that he may become strong also" (D&C 84:106). I bear humble witness that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, that the Book of Mormon is scripture, that President Gordon B. Hinckley is indeed a prophet of God, that Jesus Christ is the Redeemer and the Good Shepherd, and that He lives. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

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We should do help each other out of love. Remember that.

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Fact of the day: What do clovers, peas, and beans have in common? They are all a particular type of plant--legumes. "All legumes have compound leaves, and some grow as vines. Some have bacteria in their roots that fix nitrogen from the atmosphere." (from Eastern Forests, a Peterson Field Guide, p 240) The clovers I'm most familiar with are red clover and white clover. You can eat the flowers' sweet, sugary fluid (nectar). In red clover, The darker the purple flowers, I think, the sweeter they taste.

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1 John 4:16-21
And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
We love him, because he first loved us.
If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?
And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

Also Moroni 8:16.

And please look at Topical Guide--Love. (A topical guide is kind of like an index of topics in the scriptures.)

Love in Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Hugs and take care out there in the real world, and don't let pretend overwhelm reality. It isn't to be used to leave the real world behind. Be careful. In faith, love and take care.

Remember: Reality is so much more important than pretend. It is real. The best use for pretend is to help us understand reality, by stepping back and viewing the same thing through someone else's eyes or even in another setting.

Hugs. Have faith. Be strong. Love. Hugs. ^_^
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Monday, September 5, 2005

Here are links to a couple verses you might find interesting. Especially if you have any questions regarding the truth or the beliefs of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: Joseph Smith's first vision, especially verses 10-20, and the Articles of Faith.

A verse from Joseph Smith--History, verses 17-20:
[A pillar of light] no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!
My object in going to inquire of the Lord was to know which of all the sects was right, that I might know which to join. No sooner, therefore, did I get possession of myself, so as to be able to speak, than I asked the Personages who stood above me in the light, which of all the sects was right (for at this time it had never entered into my heart that all were wrong)—and which I should join.
I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all their creeds were an abomination in his sight; that those professors were all corrupt; that: “they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof.”
He again forbade me to join with any of them; and many other things did he say unto me, which I cannot write at this time. When I came to myself again, I found myself lying on my back, looking up into heaven. When the light had departed, I had no strength; but soon recovering in some degree, I went home. And as I leaned up to the fireplace, mother inquired what the matter was. I replied, “Never mind, all is well—I am well enough off.” I then said to my mother, “I have learned for myself that Presbyterianism is not true.” It seems as though the adversary was aware, at a very early period of my life, that I was destined to prove a disturber and an annoyer of his kingdom; else why should the powers of darkness combine against me? Why the opposition and persecution that arose against me, almost in my infancy?

2 Ne. 2: 8
Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life according to the flesh, and taketh it again by the power of the Spirit, that he may bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, being the first that should rise.

2 Ne. 2: 24-30
But behold, all things have been done in the wisdom of him who knoweth all things.
Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.
And the Messiah cometh in the fulness of time, that he may redeem the children of men from the fall. And because that they are redeemed from the fall they have become free forever, knowing good from evil; to act for themselves and not to be acted upon, save it be by the punishment of the elaw at the great and last day, according to the commandments which God hath given.
Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself.
And now, my sons, I would that ye should look to the great Mediator, and hearken unto his great commandments; and be faithful unto his words, and choose eternal life, according to the will of his Holy Spirit;
And not choose eternal death, according to the will of the flesh and the evil which is therein, which giveth the spirit of the devil power to captivate, to bring you down to hell, that he may reign over you in his own kingdom.
I have spoken these few words unto you all, my sons, in the last days of my probation; and I have chosen the good part, according to the words of the prophet. And I have none other object save it be the everlasting welfare of your souls. Amen.


The Profound Power of Gratitude,
By President Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
First Presidency Message
Ensign, September 2005

The little toy dog and the soldier fair may wonder [where a deceased child has gone], but God in His infinite mercy has not left grieving loved ones to wonder. He has provided truth. He will inspire an upward reach, and His outstretched arms will embrace you. Jesus promises to one and all who grieve, "I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you."
There is only one source of true peace. I am certain that the Lord, who notes the fall of a sparrow, looks with compassion upon those who have been called upon to part—even temporarily—from their precious children. The gifts of healing and of peace are desperately needed, and Jesus, through His Atonement, has provided them for one and all.
[...]
"The mother [and father] who laid down [their] little child[ren], being deprived of the privilege, the joy, and the satisfaction of bringing [them] up to manhood or womanhood in this world, would, after the resurrection, have all the joy, satisfaction and pleasure, and even more than it would have been possible to have had in mortality, in seeing [their] child[ren] grow to the full measure of the stature of [their] spirit[s]." This is as the balm of Gilead to those who grieve, to those who have loved and lost precious children.
The Psalmist provided this assurance: "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."
Said the Lord: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. . . . In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you . . . that where I am, there ye may be also."
I express my profound thanks to a loving Heavenly Father who gives to you, to me, and to all who sincerely seek, the knowledge that death is not the end, that His Son—even our Savior Jesus Christ—died that we might live. Temples of the Lord dot the lands of many countries. Sacred covenants are made. Celestial glory awaits the obedient. Families can be together forever.
The Master invites one and all:
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
"Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls."

I hope these bring hope and peace and faith and belief to your hearts. If you have any questions, visit the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or ask Refi or myself, and we'll answer your questions or help find them.

Love,
Equus

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Fact of the day: Bunnies are crepuscular. As far as I know, all eagles, hawks, falcons, etc. (all raptors except most owls) are diurnal, as is one species of bat, the flying fox (my favorite).

^_^
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Friday, September 2, 2005

   Hello!
"The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ is convincing evidence that Joseph Smith was a prophet and that the gospel of Jesus Christ has been restored. It is the keystone of our religion, the most powerful resource for teaching this message. Some important truths restored through Jospeh Smith include the knowledge that God is our Father and that we are His spirit children, that we lived with Him before birth, and that families can live together forever in God's presence through Christ's Atonement by obeying the laws and ordances of the gospel."

and

"Trust the remarkable promie in Moroni 10:3-5. Do all you can to persuade people to read the book, understand it, and ask God sincerely whether it is true. The witness of the Holy Ghost becomes the cornerstone of their faith that Christ has restored His Church. Help those you teach to receive that spiritual confirmation."

"[...]Much of the time we are just too casual about all of this. This is eternal life. This is the salvation of the children of God. Eternity hangs in the balance....It is the most important path this investigator will ever walk. [Elder Jeffrey R. Holland]"

"[...]Repentance involves a change of heart and a desire to forsake sin and serve God. It involves humbly yielding to the Spirit and submitting to God's will. It requires that people increase their commitment to live in agreement with God's will. Repentance requires a sincere and lasting change of thoughts, desires, habits, and actions. It is a positive experience that brings joy and peace. Be bold and loving in helping people understand what they must do to repent. By inviting people to make commitments, you can effectively raise a voice of both warning and hope."

~from Preach My Gospel a missionary-teaching and preparation manual

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I testify that Jesus is the Christ, the Savior, Redeemer, Lord, and Brother of the world. And Heavenly Father is our literal Father in Heaven, and they both love us. Believe.

How is everyone doing? I hope you like my new "fact of the day" feature. :D It's interesting, thinking up facts. Most of them are probably going to be about animals. For example--

*Equus, that's for later in your post.*

Oh, right. ^/^ Anyway, today was my last day at the bookstore. Next week I start working at Wendy's. x.x At least it's a paying job, but I need a more permanent job--which, for me, does not include Wendy's. What do you guys want to do with your lives?

*I want to live happily in a big, green meadow. With Kahn. ^/^*

Really?

*Um...did I say that out loud?*

Yes.

*^/^ I...well...that is...Oh, I'm leaving. (leaves)*

Well, there's that out in the open. Of course, Xihuitl and Kahn are already, basically, a couple. Anyway, K-C is still glum, but he got a birthday present that made him very happy--salmon riceballs!

-It wasn't my birthday.-

I know, but I don't know when your birthday is.

-You could have asked.-

Okay. I will next time.

-o.o-

Meanwhile, Happy Birthday! Oh, let's have a birthday party!

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Fact of the day: The viola is the lesser known, larger, deeper-voiced cousin of the violin. Refi plays the viola. Whoot, Refi!

(PS--If you want any appropriate fact of the day to be featured, just send it to me pm, please. :D Happy intelligence gathering.)

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*And...*

~Ba, ba da ba ba ba BAH.~



*Congrats to Equus! Trumpet sounds courtesy of Sano.*

~Anything for my girl.~

Aw, you two shouldn't have. ^/^ (glomps Sano)

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D&C 42:11
Again I say unto you, that it shall not be given to any one to go forth to preach my gospel, or to build up my church, except he be ordained by some one who has authority, and it is known to the church that he has authority and has been regularly ordained by the heads of the church.

Used in “God Is at the Helm”, a talk given by our current prophet and mortal president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gordon B. Hinckley, under the direction and inspiration of Jesus Christ, our head. This is the source of the following, as well.

“We hold up our right hand when voting in token before God that we will sustain those for whom we vote; and if we cannot feel to sustain them we ought not to hold up our hands, because to do this, would be to act the part of hypocrites. … For when we lift up our hands in this way, it is in token to God that we are sincere in what we do, and that we will sustain the parties we vote for. … If we agree to do a thing and do not do it, we become covenant breakers and violators of our obligations, which are, perhaps, as solemn and binding as anything we can enter into” (in Journal of Discourses, 21:207).

This principle applies to every priesthood quorum and every other organization of the Church where officers are sustained by the membership.

Almost universally the sustaining is unanimously in the affirmative, as it was this afternoon, because of acceptance in the Church of the validity of the declaration found in the fifth article of our faith:

“We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.” [A of F 1:5]

Here again is set forth a significant and unique feature established by the Lord in the governance of His church. The right to nominate rests with the superior officer or officers at whatever the level. But that nomination must be sustained—that is, accepted and confirmed—by the membership of the Church. The procedure is peculiar to the Lord’s church. There is no seeking for office, no jockeying for position, no campaigning to promote one’s virtues. Contrast the Lord’s way with the way of the world. The Lord’s way is quiet, it is a way of peace, it is without fanfare or monetary costs. It is without egotism or vanity or ambition. Under the Lord’s plan, those who have responsibility to select officers are governed by one overriding question: “Whom would the Lord have?” There is quiet and thoughtful deliberation. And there is much of prayer to receive the confirmation of the Holy Spirit that the choice is correct.

(and, earlier:)

Faith of our fathers, holy faith,
We will be true to thee till death!
(Hymns, 1985, no. 84)

I’m grateful for the singing of those words by the choir earlier in the meeting. My beloved brethren, this has been a wonderful meeting in which the inspiration of the Lord has been made manifest. I sense keenly the responsibility of speaking to you. I feel my own inadequacy and seek the strengthening, inspiring Spirit of the Lord to guide me.

It is a tremendously humbling experience to realize that the Melchizedek Priesthood which we hold is after the order of the Son of God, and that we have responsibility and accountability to Him and our Eternal Father for all that we do in exercising the stewardship given us. What I say of myself concerning this matter is equally applicable to all who hold office in this the Church and kingdom of God."

May God be with you. Love, hugs, and believe. Have hope and faith. May God bless you in the search for truth.
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