1. Learn why service is a fundamental principle of the gospel. Read Matthew 5:13–16; 25:34–40; Galatians 6:9–10; James 1:22–27; Mosiah 2:17; 4:26; and 3 Nephi 13:1–4. Others often give service you may not notice, such as preparing meals, reading to or listening to younger children, repairing clothing, or helping a brother or sister. For two weeks record in your journal the quiet acts of service your family members and others perform. Acknowledge their service in some meaningful way.
June 24, 2010: These scriptures all say, in a nutshell, that we have to be serving others according to our means. Service is the only way we will receive an inheritance in the Kingdom of God.
~ Quiet acts of service others perform ~
* Dave did dishes, helped with dinner, took out the garbage, washed my car, watered the garden
* Mom threw a holiday party for our family, gave me prizes for an activity, took me to a play and out to dinner, let us invite ourselves for Sunday dinner
* Maureen registered our new car, threw a holiday party for the family, brought Dave lunch
* The missionaries take on my work assignments so I can spend time with my family and calling
* People hold doors and elevators open for me
* Sabrina invited us for dinner
* My Young Women Presidency helped with activies and taught Sunday lessons
~ Acknowledge their service ~
* I gave Dave a shoulder massage
* I helped Mom with a project in the yard and helped fix dinner to take to the neighbors
July 21, 2010: I know this list is anything but comprehensive. People around us are serving in all sorts of ways; sometimes we notice their acts and sometimes we don't. I am grateful for those who do serve me and I am grateful for the opportunities I have to give back to them. Serving makes us happy because it invites the Spirit. I pray that I can be of more service to others and be quick to recognize the service they provide me.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Book of Mormon - Alma 43:48
July 20, 2010: "And Moroni ... sent forth and inspired their hearts with these thoughts - ... of their lands, their liberty, yea, their freedom from bondage."
This scripture has an almost direct correlation to a letter George Washington sent to inspire his men in the Revolutionary War. Though I can't quote or reference it, I know it is very similar. To me, this similar message of inspiration from both Moroni and George Washington, is another indication that the Lord had a hand in establishing this land. Also, it give even myself courage to carry on amid the battles of my day. The Lord does love us and want us to prevail.
This scripture has an almost direct correlation to a letter George Washington sent to inspire his men in the Revolutionary War. Though I can't quote or reference it, I know it is very similar. To me, this similar message of inspiration from both Moroni and George Washington, is another indication that the Lord had a hand in establishing this land. Also, it give even myself courage to carry on amid the battles of my day. The Lord does love us and want us to prevail.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Book of Mormon - Alma 38:2
July 13, 2010: It has just occured to me that this short chapter where Alma speaks to his son Shiblon is for the general population of the Church. Helaman's long chapters are for modern-day leaders of the Church. Corianton's are for those who stray. But Shiblon is for us who stay faithful throughout our lives. Shiblon is the brother of the Prodigal Son.
In verse 2 Alma praises Shiblon for being faithful in his youth and counsels him to remain faithful and endure to the end. What a necessary lesson for all of us. The older I get the more I understand that the fact that I graduated from seminary and institute and served a mission does not guarantee anything. This gospel takes work - takes endurance to the end. I pray that I can follow Alma's advice to Shiblon and keep the commandments, keep repenting, keep doing that I may enter the Kingdom of God at that last day.
In verse 2 Alma praises Shiblon for being faithful in his youth and counsels him to remain faithful and endure to the end. What a necessary lesson for all of us. The older I get the more I understand that the fact that I graduated from seminary and institute and served a mission does not guarantee anything. This gospel takes work - takes endurance to the end. I pray that I can follow Alma's advice to Shiblon and keep the commandments, keep repenting, keep doing that I may enter the Kingdom of God at that last day.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Book of Mormon - Alma 36:27-28
July 9, 2010: This has been one of my favorite scripture passages for a long time and it is still a favorite now. In fact, currently in my life I know all too well about troubles and trials. But, just like Alma, I too have great faith that the Lord will deliver me. Certainly, there are lessons I need to learn and ways I need to grow but I do know that once I learn and grow the Lord will deliver me. In the meantime, I have to stay strong, have great faith, and continue enduring. Then one day these trials and troubles will be behind me.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Book of Mormon - Alma 33
July 8, 2010: Alma is such a master teacher and missionary. He sees that the Zoramites have come to believe in a distorted version of prayer and disbelieve in Jesus Christ. So he quotes their very own scripture to them. How I wish we had more of the writings of Zenos. He gave the parable of the olive trees and here he is quoted as he speaks of all the places of prayer and worship where God heard him - fields, closet, wilderness, home, etc. The Spirit confirms to my heart and mind the truth of Zenos' teachings. The Lord will hear my prayers in whatever situation so long as I pray in faith.
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