April 30, 2011

2011 May HT/VT'ing Messages





















The Holy Temple—a Beacon to the World
Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
My beloved brothers and sisters, I extend my love and greetings to each of you and pray that our Heavenly Father will guide my thoughts and inspire my words as I speak to you today.
May I begin by making a comment or two concerning the fine messages we have heard this morning from Sister Allred and Bishop Burton and others pertaining to the Church’s welfare program. As indicated, this year marks the 75th anniversary of this inspired program, which has blessed the lives of so many. It was my privilege to know personally some of those who pioneered this great endeavor—men of compassion and foresight.
As both Bishop Burton and Sister Allred and others mentioned, the bishop of the ward is given the responsibility to care for those in need who reside within the boundaries of his ward. Such was my privilege when I presided as a very young bishop in Salt Lake City over a ward of 1,080 members, including 84 widows. There were many who needed assistance. How grateful I was for the welfare program of the Church and for the help of the Relief Society and the priesthood quorums.
I declare that the welfare program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is inspired of Almighty God.
Now, my brothers and sisters, this conference marks three years since I was sustained as President of the Church. Of course they have been busy years, filled with many challenges but also with countless blessings. The opportunity I have had to dedicate and rededicate temples has been among the most enjoyable and sacred of these blessings, and it is concerning the temple that I wish to speak to you today.
During the October general conference in 1902, Church President Joseph F. Smith expressed in his opening address the hope that one day we would “have temples built in the various parts of the [world] where they are needed for the convenience of the people.” 1
During the first 150 years following the organization of the Church, from 1830 to 1980, 21 temples were built, including the temples in Kirtland, Ohio, and Nauvoo, Illinois. Contrast that with the 30 years since 1980, during which 115 temples were built and dedicated. With the announcement yesterday of 3 new temples, there are additionally 26 temples either under construction or in preconstruction stages. These numbers will continue to grow.
The goal President Joseph F. Smith hoped for in 1902 is becoming a reality. Our desire is to make the temple as accessible as possible to our members.
One of the temples currently under construction is in Manaus, Brazil. Many years ago I read of a group of over a hundred members who left Manaus, located in the heart of the Amazon rain forest, to travel to what was then the closest temple, located in São Paulo, Brazil—nearly 2,500 miles (4,000 km) from Manaus. Those faithful Saints journeyed by boat for four days on the Amazon River and its tributaries. After completing this journey by water, they boarded buses for another three days of travel—over bumpy roads, with very little to eat, and with nowhere comfortable to sleep. After seven days and nights, they arrived at the temple in São Paulo, where ordinances eternal in nature were performed. Of course their return journey was just as difficult. However, they had received the ordinances and blessings of the temple, and although their purses were empty, they themselves were filled with the spirit of the temple and with gratitude for the blessings they had received. 2 Now, many years later, our members in Manaus are rejoicing as they watch their own temple take shape on the banks of the Rio Negro. Temples bring joy to our faithful members wherever they are built.
Reports of the sacrifices made in order to receive the blessings found only in temples of God never fail to touch my heart and bring to me a renewed sense of thankfulness for temples.
May I share with you the account of Tihi and Tararaina Mou Tham and their 10 children. The entire family except for one daughter joined the Church in the early 1960s, when missionaries came to their island, located about 100 miles (160 km) south of Tahiti. Soon they began to desire the blessings of an eternal family sealing in the temple.
At that time the nearest temple to the Mou Tham family was the Hamilton New Zealand Temple, more than 2,500 miles (4,000 km) to the southwest, accessible only by expensive airplane travel. The large Mou Tham family, which eked out a meager living on a small plantation, had no money for airplane fare, nor was there any opportunity for employment on their Pacific island. So Brother Mou Tham and his son Gérard made the difficult decision to travel 3,000 miles (4,800 km) to work in New Caledonia, where another son was already employed.
The three Mou Tham men labored for four years. Brother Mou Tham alone returned home only once during that time, for the marriage of a daughter.
After four years, Brother Mou Tham and his sons had saved enough money to take the family to the New Zealand Temple. All who were members went except for one daughter, who was expecting a baby. They were sealed for time and eternity, an indescribable and joyful experience.
Brother Mou Tham returned from the temple directly to New Caledonia, where he worked for two more years to pay for the passage of the one daughter who had not been at the temple with them—a married daughter and her child and husband.
In their later years Brother and Sister Mou Tham desired to serve in the temple. By that time the Papeete Tahiti Temple had been constructed and dedicated, and they served four missions there. 3
My brothers and sisters, temples are more than stone and mortar. They are filled with faith and fasting. They are built of trials and testimonies. They are sanctified by sacrifice and service.
The first temple to be built in this dispensation was the temple at Kirtland, Ohio. The Saints at the time were impoverished, and yet the Lord had commanded that a temple be built, so build it they did. Wrote Elder Heber C. Kimball of the experience, “The Lord only knows the scenes of poverty, tribulation and distress which we passed through to accomplish it.” 4 And then, after all that had been painstakingly completed, the Saints were forced to leave Ohio and their beloved temple. They eventually found refuge—although it would be temporary—on the banks of the Mississippi River in the state of Illinois. They named their settlement Nauvoo, and willing to give their all once again and with their faith intact, they erected another temple to their God. Persecutions raged, however, and with the Nauvoo Temple barely completed, they were driven from their homes once again, seeking refuge in a desert.
The struggle and the sacrifice began once again as they labored for 40 years to erect the Salt Lake Temple, which stands majestically on the block just south of those of us who are here today in the Conference Center.
Some degree of sacrifice has ever been associated with temple building and with temple attendance. Countless are those who have labored and struggled in order to obtain for themselves and for their families the blessings which are found in the temples of God.
Why are so many willing to give so much in order to receive the blessings of the temple? Those who understand the eternal blessings which come from the temple know that no sacrifice is too great, no price too heavy, no struggle too difficult in order to receive those blessings. There are never too many miles to travel, too many obstacles to overcome, or too much discomfort to endure. They understand that the saving ordinances received in the temple that permit us to someday return to our Heavenly Father in an eternal family relationship and to be endowed with blessings and power from on high are worth every sacrifice and every effort.
Today most of us do not have to suffer great hardships in order to attend the temple. Eighty-five percent of the membership of the Church now live within 200 miles (320 km) of a temple, and for a great many of us, that distance is much shorter.
If you have been to the temple for yourselves and if you live within relatively close proximity to a temple, your sacrifice could be setting aside the time in your busy lives to visit the temple regularly. There is much to be done in our temples in behalf of those who wait beyond the veil. As we do the work for them, we will know that we have accomplished what they cannot do for themselves. President Joseph F. Smith, in a mighty declaration, stated, “Through our efforts in their behalf their chains of bondage will fall from them, and the darkness surrounding them will clear away, that light may shine upon them and they shall hear in the spirit world of the work that has been done for them by their children here, and will rejoice with you in your performance of these duties.” 5 My brothers and sisters, the work is ours to do.
In my own family, some of our most sacred and treasured experiences have occurred when we have joined together in the temple to perform sealing ordinances for our deceased ancestors.
If you have not yet been to the temple or if you have been but currently do not qualify for a recommend, there is no more important goal for you to work toward than being worthy to go to the temple. Your sacrifice may be bringing your life into compliance with what is required to receive a recommend, perhaps by forsaking long-held habits which disqualify you. It may be having the faith and the discipline to pay your tithing. Whatever it is, qualify to enter the temple of God. Secure a temple recommend and regard it as a precious possession, for such it is.
Until you have entered the house of the Lord and have received all the blessings which await you there, you have not obtained everything the Church has to offer. The all-important and crowning blessings of membership in the Church are those blessings which we receive in the temples of God.
Now, my young friends who are in your teenage years, always have the temple in your sights. Do nothing which will keep you from entering its doors and partaking of the sacred and eternal blessings there. I commend those of you who already go to the temple regularly to perform baptisms for the dead, arising in the very early hours of the morning so you can participate in such baptisms before school begins. I can think of no better way to start a day.
To you parents of young children, may I share with you some sage advice from President Spencer W. Kimball. Said he: “It would be a fine thing if … parents would have in every bedroom in their house a picture of the temple so [their children] from the time [they are] infant[s] could look at the picture every day [until] it becomes a part of [their lives]. When [they reach] the age that [they need] to make [the] very important decision [concerning going to the temple], it will have already been made.” 6
Our children sing in Primary:
I love to see the temple.
I’ll go inside someday.
I’ll cov’nant with my Father;
I’ll promise to obey. 7
I plead with you to teach your children of the temple’s importance.
The world can be a challenging and difficult place in which to live. We are often surrounded by that which would drag us down. As you and I go to the holy houses of God, as we remember the covenants we make within, we will be more able to bear every trial and to overcome each temptation. In this sacred sanctuary we will find peace; we will be renewed and fortified.
Now, my brothers and sisters, may I mention one more temple before I close. In the not-too-distant future as new temples take shape around the world, one will rise in a city which came into being over 2,500 years ago. I speak of the temple which is now being built in Rome, Italy.
Every temple is a house of God, filling the same functions and with identical blessings and ordinances. The Rome Italy Temple, uniquely, is being built in one of the most historic locations in the world, a city where the ancient Apostles Peter and Paul preached the gospel of Christ and where each was martyred.
Last October, as we gathered on a lovely pastoral site in the northeast corner of Rome, it was my opportunity to offer a prayer of dedication as we prepared to break the ground. I felt impressed to call upon Italian senator Lucio Malan and Rome’s vice-mayor Giuseppe Ciardi to be among the first to turn a shovelful of earth. Each had been a part of the decision to allow us to build a temple in their city.
The day was overcast but warm, and although rain threatened, not more than a drop or two fell. As the magnificent choir sang in Italian the beautiful strains of “The Spirit of God,” one felt as though heaven and earth were joined in a glorious hymn of praise and gratitude to Almighty God. Tears could not be restrained.
In a coming day, the faithful in this, the Eternal City, will receive ordinances eternal in nature in a holy house of God.
I express my undying gratitude to my Heavenly Father for the temple now being built in Rome and for all of our temples, wherever they are. Each one stands as a beacon to the world, an expression of our testimony that God, our Eternal Father, lives, that He desires to bless us and, indeed, to bless His sons and daughters of all generations. Each of our temples is an expression of our testimony that life beyond the grave is as real and as certain as is our life here on earth. I so testify.
My beloved brothers and sisters, may we make whatever sacrifices are necessary to attend the temple and to have the spirit of the temple in our hearts and in our homes. May we follow in the footsteps of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who made the ultimate sacrifice for us, that we might have eternal life and exaltation in our Heavenly Father’s kingdom. This is my sincere prayer, and I offer it in the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ the Lord, amen.
Visiting Teaching May 2011
The Essence of Discipleship
Silvia H. Allred
First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency
From the beginning of time, the Lord has taught that to become His people we need to be of one heart and one mind. 1 The Savior also explained that the two great commandments in the law are “Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind” and “love thy neighbour as thyself.” 2 Lastly, soon after the Church was restored, the Lord commanded the Saints to “visit the poor and the needy and administer to their relief.” 3
What is the common theme in all these commandments? It is that we must love one another and serve one another. This is, in fact, the essence of discipleship in the true Church of Jesus Christ.
As we celebrate 75 years of the Church welfare program, we are reminded of the purposes of welfare, which are to help members help themselves become self-reliant, to care for the poor and needy, and to give service. The Church has organized its resources to assist members to provide for the physical, spiritual, social, and emotional well-being of themselves, their families, and others. The office of bishop carries with it a special mandate to care for the poor and needy and to administer such resources for the members in his ward. He is assisted in his efforts by priesthood quorums, Relief Society, and in particular, home and visiting teachers.
Relief Society has always been at the heart of welfare. When the Prophet Joseph Smith organized the Relief Society in 1842, he said to the women, “This is the beginning of better days to the poor and needy.” 4 He told the sisters that the purpose of the society was “relief of the poor, the destitute, the widow and the orphan, and for the exercise of all benevolent purposes. … They will pour in oil and wine to the wounded heart of the distressed; they will dry up the tears of the orphan and make the widow’s heart to rejoice.” 5
He also stated that the society “might provoke the brethren to good works in looking to the wants of the poor—searching after objects of charity, and in administering to their wants—to assist by correcting the morals and strengthening the virtues of the community.” 6
Men and women of the Church participate jointly today in bringing relief to those in need. Priesthood holders provide essential support for those needing spiritual guidance and help. Inspired home teachers bless lives and provide the blessings of the gospel to every family unit. In addition, they lend their strength and talents in other ways, such as helping a family in need of home repairs, in helping a family move, or in helping a brother find needed employment.
Relief Society presidents visit homes to assess the needs for a bishop. Inspired visiting teachers watch over and care for sisters and families. They are often the first response in times of immediate need. Relief Society sisters provide meals, render compassionate service, and give constant support during times of trial.
Church members all over the world have rejoiced in the past and should rejoice now at the opportunities we have to serve others. Our combined efforts bring relief to those who are poor, hungry, suffering, or distressed, thereby saving souls.
Every bishop has available to him the Lord’s storehouse, which is established as “faithful members give to the bishop of their time, talents, skills, compassion, materials, and financial means in caring for the poor and in building up the kingdom of God on the earth.” 7 We can all contribute to the Lord’s storehouse when we pay our fast offerings and make all our resources available to the bishop to assist those in need.
Despite the rapidly changing world, welfare principles have not changed with the passing of time because they are divinely inspired, revealed truth. When members of the Church and their families do everything they can to sustain themselves and still cannot meet basic needs, the Church stands ready to help. Short-term needs are met immediately, and a plan to help the recipient become self-reliant is established. Self-reliance is the ability to provide the spiritual and temporal necessities of life for self and family.
As we increase our own level of self-reliance, we increase our ability to help and serve others the way the Savior did. We follow the Savior’s example when we minister to the needy, the sick, and the suffering. When love becomes the guiding principle in our care for others, our service to them becomes the gospel in action. It is the gospel in its finest moment. It is pure religion.
In my various Church assignments, I have been humbled by the love and concern bishops and Relief Society leaders demonstrate for their flocks. While I was serving as a stake Relief Society president in Chile during the early 1980s, the country was experiencing a deep recession and the rate of unemployment was 30 percent. I witnessed how heroic Relief Society presidents and faithful visiting teachers went about “doing good” 8 under such grim circumstances. They portrayed the scripture in Proverbs 31:20: “She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.”
Sisters whose families had very little themselves were constantly helping those who they thought were in greater need. I then more clearly understood what the Savior saw when He declared in Luke 21:3–4:
“Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all:
“For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.”
A few years later I witnessed the same thing as a stake Relief Society president in Argentina when hyperinflation hit the country and the economic collapse that followed affected many of our faithful members. I witnessed it yet again during my recent visits to Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Antananarivo in Madagascar, and Bulawayo in Zimbabwe. Ward members everywhere, and Relief Society sisters in particular, continue to build faith, strengthen individuals and families, and help those in need.
To think that a humble sister or brother with a Church calling can go into a home where there is poverty, sorrow, sickness, or distress and can bring peace, relief, and happiness is astonishing. No matter where the ward or branch is or how big or small the group is, every member throughout the world has that opportunity. It happens every day, and it is happening somewhere at this very moment.
Karla is a young mother of two. Her husband, Brent, works long hours and commutes an hour each way to work. Soon after the birth of their second little girl, she related the following experience: “The day after I received the call to serve as a counselor in my ward Relief Society, I began to feel quite overwhelmed. How could I possibly take on the responsibility to help care for the women in my ward when I was struggling just to fulfill my role as a wife and mother of a very active two-year-old and a new baby? Just as I was dwelling on these feelings, the two-year-old became sick. I wasn’t quite sure what to do for her and care for the baby at the same time. Just then, Sister Wasden, who is one of my visiting teachers, unexpectedly came to the door. A mother of grown children, she knew just what to do to help. She told me what I needed to do while she went to the drugstore to get some supplies. Later on she arranged for my husband to be picked up at the train station so that he could get home quickly to help me. Her response to what I believe was a prompting from the Holy Ghost along with her willingness to serve me were just the reassurance I needed from the Lord that He was going to help me to fulfill my new calling.”
Heavenly Father loves us and knows our unique circumstances and abilities. Although we seek His help daily through prayer, it is usually through another person that He meets our needs. 9
The Lord said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” 10
The pure love of Christ is expressed as we give selfless service. Helping one another is a sanctifying experience which exalts the receiver and humbles the giver. It helps us become true disciples of Christ.
The welfare plan has always been the application of eternal principles of the gospel. It truly is providing in the Lord’s way. Let us each renew our desire to be part of the Lord’s storehouse in blessing others.
I pray that the Lord will bless each of us with a greater sense of mercy, charity, and compassion. I plead for an increase in our desire and ability to reach out and assist the less fortunate, the distressed, and those who suffer, that their needs may be met, that their faith may be strengthened, and that their hearts may be filled with gratitude and love.
May the Lord bless each one of us as we walk in obedience to His commandments, His gospel, and His light. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

“World’s Forever”

cji
5/1/11

The Scriptures tell all
any who’ll just read
praying to understand
world’s without an end
forever and ever to be
Kingdoms of Father
inheritances for all
yet worthiness required
thus the Temple to be
the House of the Lord
a gateway to Celestial
no other way is known
no other way is found
praying to understand
for all who’ll just read
the Scriptures tell all!

“Discipleship”

cji
5/1/11

Declaring the Lord to obey
we all enter hallowed halls
service our lives to commit
others before self called
selfishness to overwhelm
as tears flow in happiness
how much more love found
thus ever to Father bound
in the valleys of darkness
yet sturdy as the old elm
in humility thus awed
our indebtedness to admit
the still small voice calls
Father thus hears us pray!
·
Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 29, 2011

“Radiant”

“Radiant”

cji
4/30/11

Something from very deep
emotions showing clearly
quiet confidence of love
radiating to fill the world
none can look and not see
for all can feel the warmth
each moment in time known
wherein a woman is radiant
no where can be it hidden
for from Father is grown
a daughter pure and clean
into the world ever radiant!

Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 28, 2011

“Later and Later”

“Later and Later”

cji
4/29/11

The pumpkin returned
darkness has fallen
some sleeping in drive-in
high water over gunnels
rivers past the flood stage
barriers broken down
damaged bridges gone
out of gas and tires flat
batteries dead/corroded
later and later so found
darkness has fallen
the pumpkin returned!

Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 27, 2011

“Does It Matter?”

“Does It Matter?”
cji
4/28/11

Over the past several decades I’ve had multiple conversations and questions to answer on why only one (1) church and not many – and why the leaders of this Church must be called by revelation. Without purse or script for the Prophet’s and Apostles. Recently I was asked why I use the terminology ‘paid clergy’ versus the Church where there is no paid clergy. Also the difference between going to college, seminary, universities or on-line licenses to preach the Gospel for almost every church in the world – while The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have no such program and all of the Priesthood leadership is called by revelation. Further the question of continued revelation and no man-(woman) made creed(s) being needed. Lastly the idea of two good men or women who’ve a belief in Heavenly Father and His Son our Savior Jesus Christ – live good lives – choose righteously – good over evil and are found in the service of their fellowmen(women) without remunerations. to this list of questions and thoughts I’ve addressed the below to answering – not in any specific order – but in general.

First, the biggest difference between the Restored Church and all others is no one strives to become a leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – there is no school or academy or university one can attend – these are callings from the Lord and his representatives on this earth today – like it was in the Primitive Church. No one seeks these or any callings – but all serve willingly and to the best of their abilities to the positions to which they’re called. If anyone thinks there is prestige or anything like such in the Kingdom of God – they’re sadly mistaken. There’s the respect but mostly there’s the never ending work involved (in addition to doing their normal daily work for their living). You will find firemen, policemen, farmers, teachers, bankers, hospital employees, military officer and enlisted holding any number of leadership positions throughout the world serving in these callings.

Further, there is no paid clergy anywhere in the Church – no Branch President – Quorum Leader – Bishop – Stake President – General Authority – Apostle or Prophet is paid. No Relief Society President – no Organist – no Sunday School President – no one anywhere with a calling is paid anything. The only persons paid in the Church are those who’ve jobs and have been hired to attend to them – Custodial – Secretarial – and so on – but these are all hired by the Church! All of the privately owned businesses of the Church – employ and pay their full share of taxes – bottling companies – farms – etc.

To sidetrack for a moment – over the past almost 200 years Joseph Smith, Jr. has had more material written about him of a negative nature than any other person in the history of these 200 years. There are more books (over 10,000+)– written about him while only 1500+ written about George Washington. These books, magazine, pamphlets demean him, calling him a liar – etc. attacking him over and over again. At this point some show no new creativity but just rearrange the words of others. During his life he enjoyed no peace from the time of his first vision with the Father and the Son. He was hounded, ridiculed, tarred and feathered, beaten, shot at, illegally imprisoned for long periods of time and eventually murdered by the same troops which were supposed to protect him. Those who were members of the Church were beaten – had their homes burned – some murdered – women raped and killed – small babies killed next to their mothers/fathers – all done by the members of the communities where they lived with no (not any) protection of the laws of the United States, the Constitution or the laws of the states wherein they resided. They were forced from place to place until the were forced finally from the US fully. Then when the US came to where they’d settled it appeared to start all over again – but instead this time it was done in courts and congress by those who acted corruptly.

The reason for this sidetrack is to ask one simple question – ‘Why didn’t they all just deny their beliefs – visions – revelations?’ If they had they would’ve been left in relative peace. Not only didn’t they deny their beliefs but more and more people from all over the world joined their ranks – knowing what was waiting for them when they did so. Isn’t this rather strange behavior for what Charles Dickens called the cream of the crop of the British Isles? He in addition said, “What they do is most commendable – what they say is utter nonsense.” Some did deny their testimonies – some left the Church – including some of those who never denied their testimony of seeing and holding the Golden Plates – talking and meeting with an Angel of God, etc. (Eight of the thirteen witnesses left the Church – none ever once denied their testimony and all on their deathbeds reaffirmed their testimony.) Those who did not deny their testimonies – moved with the Saints finally to the Rocky Mountains – acted such because what they knew was true – and they knew it and could not deny it no matter how severe the punishments. (For any historians – this was the exact same behavior of the Primitive Church when being persecuted by the Romans, the Jews, and by all other religions through and until even today. The Restoration of the Church in 1830 caused a rancor among the churches of the day and has continued even until today in their sermons and literature. Men/women, media praised those who committed the crimes against the Saints in the 1800’s and lauded the murderers of Joseph Smith, Jr. with front page headlines.

Today the Prophet Thomas S. Monson and other leaders of the Church live in an environment of a constant threat to their lives. Anyone can attack a person either with words or articles – stones – guns – tar and feathers, however, not one person anywhere has ever successfully attacked the Doctrine of the Church – no has ever proved there were no plates – or that Joseph Smith, Jr. did not translate them. No one has ever proved he didn’t have visions – or that there is continued revelation today.
End of sidetrack!

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is simple – straight-forward and adheres to no creed of men/women – makes common sense – and has been restored in its fulness in these later-days. Everyone who repeats the “Lord’s Prayer” seeks the coming of the Kingdom of God – yet fail to comprehend that this has already taken place. The Savior will or could not come to earth to reign if the Kingdom had not been already restored.

One needs only to read the literal Bible – to know what and how things would take place and what they would look like. Sadly with all of the various translations, changes, transmissions, omissions, political changes, etc. one must strive to find one closest to the original Greek, German, Hebrew or Latin version – which would lead them to the Tyndale Bible – or something in the KJV about 1759. Most edited after the late 1880’s started the interpretation to what one’s creed stated rather than to what was originally written. But even the most skewed of the revised Bibles contain the basic truths of the literal Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Let’s understand at one time there were over 3400+ books or texts of the Bible. Remembering also that the word Bible – comes from Bibliography (or collection of books) and that prior to the 1300-1500’s there was no Bible – just Scriptures! The earliest keepers of the record were changing and deleting from the Scriptures before the birth of the Savior and none have stopped since the Savior’s birth. By the 2nd to 4th Century those who were responsible for the Scriptures turned complete to neo-Platonism and have never deviated since that time.

Peter in a letter to James – asked what would happen after he were dead – if while he was living many were changing what he’d said.

If the Church as organized by the Savior is to be upon the earth today it HAS TO BE LED by a PROPHET!! It must have Apostles!! It must have continued REVELATIONS.

A simple question to all of those who say there is no more revelation – or visions – or needed Scripture – how would they know this without continued Revelations?

There is one Baptism – one Church – one God – and one Way. God is not a God of confusion – distraction – contention – but the same yesterday – today and forever.

No other church in the world believes the Bible literally (as translated correctly) – no other creed/church teaches of the resurrection of the physical body – that families can be reunited (together forever to procreate) – no other church teaches that man can be as God is – and that God was once as man is (one need only to read Genesis). No other church teaches that we’re in the literal image of the Father and the Son –and these are two separate individuals with both having physical bodies of flesh and bone!

My friends I persist in sharing this with you because I know how much you love your families and they love you and you need to know whatever sealing you have is valid only on this earth as your minister has their authority from either a school or state/federal government. (Note: Many clergy are now not adding the divorce decree – ‘Till Death do you Part’ in their marriage ceremonies – but sadly they can add nothing of an authoritive nature in its place.) Going to the Temple of the Lord is the only place on this earth were two people can be sealed as husband and wife (with children) forever and ever as a family – eternally.

There is no attacking intended in this short essay – none – just the simple statement of factual information – anyone can read the various creeds of men/women. Also anyone can read the Holy Bible for themselves and understand what I’ve written is true. There was no paid clergy in the time of the Savior – in his Church!! There is no paid clergy today in His Church. There was continued revelation and visions in the primitive Church – the same as today in the Restored Church. Much can be discerned when one reads the Scriptures with a clear and open mind – while where a closed mind is found – not much can be discerned or learned.

Now to the statement of the two equally clean and strong of faith. Both have choices to make – to discern if the Church has been restored or not. If by family tradition, or the influences of the time or if being alive when the Church was not yet upon the earth – is unable to discern the answer as to whether the Church is here or not. Two good men/women will be treated based on their knowledge and what they did with it – those who’ve never heard the Gospel taught (or the Church wasn’t on the earth in their lifetime) will hear the Gospel during the millennial period (all will hear the Gospel either during their lifetime in mortality or afterwards). Each will be judged on what they did – right and wrong – good or bad, etc. All of those who’ve committed the unpardonable sin ‘denying the Holy Ghost’ will go to outer darkness. All others will go to one of the many Kingdoms which have been prepared for them. Yes some of these may also end up in outer darkness.

We know from Paul there are at least three main Kingdoms. Terrestrial, Telestial and Celestial. The most righteous will go to the Celestial – and of these those who’ve been Sealed for Time and all Eternity will enter into the presence of the Father and the Son as an eternal family. Remember in John it states – whatever is sealed on earth will be sealed in heaven and whatever is not sealed on earth will not be sealed in heaven. (Note: for those who’ve been sealed on earth in the Temple of the Lord have to remain worthy to all of the covenants, etc. to gain this Kingdom.)

Many believe in God – but to love Him is to keep his commandments and to return to Him is to know him!! Heavenly Father needs to be known – the Son (our Savior) teaches us about Him in the Scriptures. The Savior needs to be known! As Stephen when he was about to be stoned indicated – ‘behold the heavens opened and he beheld Jesus standing on the right hand of the Father.’

All men and women who’ve lived upon this earth will be judged individually at the bar of the Savior. The Apostles will be there – those from both the Primitive Church – the Restored Church, The Nephite Church, and all of the various Prophet’s from the beginning of time until the end of our mortality on this earth. Justice and Mercy will both be served. One must recognize that Satan will also be their trying to claim his which he’s converted to follow him while in their mortality.

Now comes the final chapter – whether one believes in worldly churches or not – whether one ever hears the Gospel or not – whether one is good or evil or not – all will be judged. Those who never heard the Gospel will be taught the Gospel (much as the Savior did after the crucifixion to those detained in Paradise or where those who died since the great flood dwelled and waited).

The idea that all will go to heaven – as if it is only one place – and or go to hell as if it is another – is manmade theology. All men/women/children and living things upon this earth were ‘saved’ as a result of the Atonement of the Savior for our sins. None will be neglected or lost as to being saved. However, what one does with the knowledge available to them while living will make part of Justice/Mercy balance come into play on where they’ll reside eternally (and how).

God is a just God – man/woman are very unjust in deciding for the Savior what will happen to some and something different for others via heaven or hell. Thus those who proclaim everyone is going to Hell (including the Mormons - smile) if they don’t adhere to this creed or that one – is flat out not doctrine according to the Scriptures. It is instead false theology and very bad doctrine. Nowhere is it found in the teachings of the Savior, The Prophet’s or the Apostles (living or dead).

All men/women are and were saved by the Atonement! After this it will be by what they did or didn’t do while in mortality which will make the differences. You need not join any church to have the benefit of the Atonement in your life! You need only be good – in the service of others – make correct choices of right and wrong and never violate any of the Ten Commandments. Whereas if one joins a Church without doing all of their homework – then in some ways their next life is totally dependent on the teachings and creeds of that church. However, having said this one does need to belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in order to receive the Temple Blessings – the Covenants and Ordinances of the fullness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ if it is indeed the Restored Church as I testify that it is – in the name of Jesus Christ – amen - cji/ork.

“Does It Matter?”

cji
4/28/11

Yes it does but only if
surely there is justice
just as there is mercy
one Church, one Way
one Gospel, one God
one Baptism for all
yet does it matter
if one doesn’t care
if one feels they’ve all
and need no more
full truth is unneeded
just enough will do
then being good is all
proclaiming faith enough
acknowledging a code
acceptable to oneself
for all will be saved*
none will be forever lost
yet faith without works
is surely dead forever**!


Copyright © 2011 – cji
*except those who deny
the Holy Ghost;
**See Chapter 1 –
Book of James.

April 26, 2011

“Bouncing About”

“Bouncing About”

cji
4/27/11

Got caught up just today
inside a washing machine
more likely a tornado
but could’ve been more
a hurricane – typhoon
bouncing about lost
time forgetting balance
unable to even hang on
swirling faces to mistake
water spouts towering
down drafts to scare
bouncing about today
without roots or anchors!

Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 25, 2011

“Whisperings”

“Whisperings”

cji
4/26/11

Faint touches felt alone
whisperings barely heard
silent and hallowed
soft winds only to move
wherein sacred treasures
our lives own measures
our covenants to prove
our trusts so valued
our loins thus to grid
in our own way to atone!

Copyright © 2011 – cji


April 24, 2011

“Flash Flood”

“Flash Flood”

cji
4/25/11

Without eyes to see
or ears able to hear
no heart thus to feel
blindly driving faster
seeking least resistance
carrying all with it away
crashing and destroying
leaving wreckage behind
while some just ignore
many simply make jest
forsaking the flash flood
rather to play in the rain
speak of times of plenty
forgetting the atonement
remembered from the past
rather to be as a river
a flash flood of their life
blind, deaf and unfeeling!


Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 23, 2011

“Holding Tight”

“Holding Tight”

cji
4/24/11

There is only one way
only one road to Zion
only one way to truth
only one truth to know
only one way to grow
only for old and youth
we are all Father’s scion
holding tight not to stray;

Each Sabbath Day to be
where Father’s wants us
bending on our knees
heavenward our pleas
resounding saying yes
holding tight to be free!


Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 22, 2011

The Shoulder

“It is that grain of truth that sometimes slaps our face and says, "Are you listening?" Sad that each generation must find anew this brotherhood. Each generation to relearn the lessons that brothers and sisters before had understood.” cn


Hi All – sharing this with the many on my various lists. We’ve many of our brothers and sisters in harm’s way – and we need to remember it is our love, prayers and understanding which will help those who return to be able to come home. Many return – but without love, prayers and understanding few really ever return home. Harm’s way is found in many forms within today’s world - chuck



“The Shoulder”

cji
4/23/11

(Prelude:

Prior to every conflict
fervent prayers heard
pleading for safety
imploring for a return
leaning on another
while brave – resolute
immortality not known
yet courage found
mixed with a fear!)

(1)

“Early On”

Streaming in headlines
alerting all the nation
4” bold print to be seen
proclaiming right/wrong
leaning on interests
screaming positions
bent on war or conflict
or better political belief
yet ever forward going
preparing to shed blood
preparations of war!

(2)

“The Young”

The young of a society
massed into the military
from Bunker Hill of old
to the sand boxes today
volunteers ever taunted
media giving up secrets
the UN to poise treason
sheltering of bold lies
wherein a nation dies;

(3)

“The Old”

Too old to fight again
sitting on the sidelines
no longer to be heard
experience wiped away
veterans crying alone
unable the blood to stay
while the rich idly play!

(4)

“Today”

Years passing along
lost many the strong
good men/women
sacrificing their all
leaving another behind
wondering to do more
wanting clocks to stop
no more killing to hear
but smoke does not clear!

(5)

“The Young/Old”

Binds tied ever strong
overcoming a wrong
blending of the blood
graveyards often filled
but now a listening ear
absorbing another’s tear
erasing a greater fear
the young/old gather
mending all together
experiences repeated
never to be deleted!

(6)

“Staring”

Unseeing are the eyes
blinded in a memory
never to erased again
dreams into the dark
screams of alertness
just there to be found
surface deep in anger
lurking near the danger
staring in the darkness
deeper into loneliness!

(7)

“Being There”

Counselors clamor
Senators talk cheap
money gambles lives
rhetorical media lies
never being there
where other have been
unable to again leave
alone only to grieve!

(8)

“The Shoulder”

Unknown to be a few
where most will turn
inwardly unable to stay
yet outside the circle
unable ever to stray
thus the brotherhood
entwining young/old
understanding love
feeling grief and anger
elations and despairs
but always the shoulder
big enough for each
within we all reach!

(9)

“Later On”

The wounded now home
physically or mentally
searching for the who
once they to be known
yet no longer to find
nothing even to remind
millennial to have grown
no longer me or a you
lost in harshness gently
sometimes so all alone!

(Epilogue:

Centuries pass far away
too near to ever forget
war man’s excuse for joy
contention and avarice
ignoring the shoulder
unknowing brotherhood
(pause)
upon the brotherhood
where we each survive
turning within/without
the circle so well known
into which we’ve grown!)


(Addendum:

Never forget some gave all
Sisters and Brothers
the Brotherhood entwines
both the women/men
none to be left behind
nor should any be alone
upon returning again home!)



Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 21, 2011

“Updating Chipmunks”

“Updating Chipmunks”

cji
4/22/11

Technology comes and goes
whirlwind quickness occurs
today is already yesterday
tomorrow six months late
updating chipmunks today
faster but not as friendly
scary in the simpleness
yet the chipmunks cried
the wheel now to big
Micro-Chip and Alvin-Chip
finally having to retire
Buzz-Chip and Hyper-Chip
now taking their places
only for the yesterdays
will tomorrow ever begin
as we openly wait today
technology comes and goes!

Copyright © 2011 – cji


“Without Contention”

“Without Contention”

cji
4/22/11

Carried on windy waves
moving effortlessly forward
swell as large buildings
pushing and pulling awe
strength deeply enduring
smoothly rolling onward
without contention about
unlike those of mortality
seeking always conflict
taking easy to difficult
eschewing common sense
dismissing light and truth
unlike other creations
found without contention!

Copyright © 2011 – cji

“My Path to Follow”

“My Path to Follow”

cji
4/21/11

Not much to see
let alone to follow
just a feeling/guess
leaning grass to find
followed in my mind
the Spirit me to caress
righteousness to allow
till more defined to see;

Sometimes smoothly
others times dangerously
cliffs high over my head
losing sight time to time
especially when to climb
spiritually thus was led
going forward righteously
Gilead’s balm soothingly;

More plain now I see
the path before me there
as it has always been
as I who had to avoid sin
justice/mercy to be fair
all of the evil to flee;

A commandment given
‘Hold to the Path’ always
understanding not to depart
thus now doing our part
in hallowed hallways
then eternally forgiven!


Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 20, 2011

“Anything”

“Anything”

cji
4/21/11

Which is it to want
wishes or dreams
ideas or thoughts
needs or just wants
for each can have all
anything they want
should they decide
but better needful
better for service
unselfishly to desire
the best for all
responsible to be
deciding always
which is it to want!

Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 19, 2011

“Mining Self”

“Mining Self”

cji
4/20/11

Digging in the depth
refining gold within
seeking our wisdom
given generations
preparations of life
mortality and eternity
refining of fires
gold and silver
purity and clarity
understanding
full and through
eternally forever
when mining self!

Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 18, 2011

“Inspired”

“Inspired” cji 4/19/11 Intervention in our thoughts tenderly bringing in warmth inviting within the Spirit giving time for reflection deepness of understanding opening the conduits above wherein we may discern thus to be able to then feel the inspired teachings felt presented by Father’s Son and their Prophets/Apostles with us on this day to hear! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 17, 2011

“Beckoning”

“Beckoning” cji 4/18/11 Lights lining the way hallowed halls to follow coming closer to see us now nearer to feel where once been again now to go towards the light calling us onward staircases to climb Heaven’s windows opening into our life! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 16, 2011

“Small Knights”


“Small Knights” cji 4/17/11 The strength of ten or ten thousand as a child of God each and all to be small knights heart pure/clean each Sabbath Day covenants to renew for those who know One God – One Way One Baptism yet many found man/woman made yet how many to be small knights pure pure children of God each day/everyday is a Sabbath Day! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 15, 2011

“Trying to Hide”


“Trying to Hide” cji 4/16/11 Seeking a corner maybe darkness yet still afraid darkness I mean yet where to go trying to hide away from all trying to hide while crying! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 14, 2011

“Inside Tears”

“Inside Tears” cji 4/15/11 Eyes bright and clear smiles to illusion give light conversation too inside tears from view as sadness does live my inner-being to sear; Inside tears so hidden keeping others out fooling all with doubt none invited or bidden! Copyright © 2011 – cji

“Lovingly”


“Lovingly” cji 4/15/11 It was yesterday well maybe longer it will be tomorrow eternal and forever met and both knew from long ago view ties never to sever happiness’s sorrow two made one stronger lovingly known today! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 13, 2011

“If”


“If” cji 4/14/11 More guilt more excuses more questions few answers few denials few words; One word ‘if’ turn back clocks hindsight’s wish doubt and regret second chances if only again! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 12, 2011

“Scriptures”

“Scriptures” cji 4/13/10 Important beyond measure plain and simple meanings able for all to understand used by the Savior to teach Apostles/Prophets to reach fulfilling Father’s command forever to feel eternal gleanings Scriptures filled with treasure! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 11, 2011

“Remission”

“Remission” cji 4/12/11 Seeking forgiveness solitude in aloneness tenderly to enquire having faith foremost knowing of the Savior hearing the Prophets feeling the promptings finding a sure answer remission for my sins surety in the fullness! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 10, 2011

“Dullingly”

“Dullingly” cji 4/11/11 Somehow – someway changing new to used blue becomes green purple is only a haze sometimes one wanders lost in visions of reality to be found cast aside truth thus is shattered beliefs stultified by many laughed at and scorned thus to endure travails into the millennium Zion’s course to stay! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 9, 2011

“Tis’ True”


“Tis’ True” cji 4/10/11 If there is a blue and maybe a red the Bible’s true if individually read; Many to contradict many to rearrange rhetoric to conflict meanings to change; But, tis’ true tis’ true for there is a red also there’s a blue on to Zion to be led; On a Sabbath day pondering this too kneel then to pray you’ll know it’s true! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 8, 2011

“Attack Dogs”


“Attack Dogs” Cji 4/9/11 Needing a scent a blood trail there going for the juggler going for a tendon seeking after prey never after doctrine just an individual killing the Prophets killing the Apostles hired for the job vicious unrelenting rhetorical illusions persuading the many going for a tendon going for the juggler a blood trail there needing a scent! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 7, 2011

“Playing” cji 4/8/11 Oft as a child long ago pondering the universe big clouds and a small one seeking wisdom of sages determining games of play; But childhood will not stay as old books new pages new task learned and done a much smaller universe playing ever so long ago! Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 6, 2011




“Wooden Stones”

cji

4/7/11

Wasted and disheveled

strewn across roads

river beds found resting

some rotted inside

others hardened in age

wooden stones crushed

beneath ages of grief

left in open fields

desolately seeking

yet lost now to all

wooden stones call!

Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 5, 2011

“Deep Wounds”


“Deep Wounds”

cji

4/6/11

Branding irons to sear

deep under the skin

burning and healing

cleansing from within

while gasps of pain

whither without awe

deep wounds of sin

refiner fires needed

obedience be heeded

wherewith within

silence now to call

as days are to wane

if we’re ever to win

and find Father near!

Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 4, 2011

“Wooden Thoughts”


“Wooden Thoughts”

cji

4/5/11

Once grand and wondrous

given growth and freedom

no bounds as live trees

branching and growing

serving one and all alike;

With aging clouds strike

knives whittling/gnawing

allowing through a breeze

now less than a fiefdom

now more ponderous;

Many raining each day

negative thoughts convey

childhood no longer to play

sawdust/chips on floors lay!

Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 3, 2011

“Did You Hear?”





“Did You Hear?”

cji

4/4/11

Voices whispering aloud

many gathering so alone

quiet invading the spaces

nothing left so unseen

cracks and shadows

broken glass and doors

burning sheds and barns

homes no longer bright

families on the run

fleeing beyond storms

while biting ice torments

yet rumors are alive

just wondering aloud,

“Did you hear?”


Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 2, 2011





“Hand in Hand”

cji

4/3/11


Families, friends

loved ones all

hearing the call

a Sabbath sends;


Hand in hand to go

embraces of truth

mature and youth

the Sabbath to know!


Copyright © 2011 – cji

April 1, 2011

“Day After”


“Day After”

cji

4/2/11

It was once tomorrow

now only the day after

once time able to plan

now found already spent

was it once a yesterday

too slowly to respond

for now know not today

but the day after again;

Casting wayward glances

seeking lost moments

wondering of what if

canceling all chances

chilling realities found

having wasted what was

wistfully grasping air

now again the day after!

Copyright © 2011 – cji