Prayer

I thought the October General Conference talk by Elder David A. Bednar, entitled "Pray Always" and given in the Saturday afternoon session, was particularly important for all of us.

Our communication with our Heavenly Father in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, is one of the most important things we can do to strengthen ourselves spiritually and to receive guidance for living our lives to the best of our ability.

One thing that really struck me about Elder Bednar's remarks was what he had to say about the continuity of our prayers. He said:

We learn from these verses that the spiritual creation preceded the temporal creation. In a similar way, meaningful morning prayer is an important element in the spiritual creation of each day—and precedes the temporal creation or the actual execution of the day. Just as the temporal creation was linked to and a continuation of the spiritual creation, so meaningful morning and evening prayers are linked to and are a continuation of each other.

Consider this example. There may be things in our character, in our behavior, or concerning our spiritual growth about which we need to counsel with Heavenly Father in morning prayer. After expressing appropriate thanks for blessings received, we plead for understanding, direction, and help to do the things we cannot do in our own strength alone. For example, as we pray, we might:

Reflect on those occasions when we have spoken harshly or inappropriately to those we love the most.
Recognize that we know better than this, but we do not always act in accordance with what we know.
Express remorse for our weaknesses and for not putting off the natural man more earnestly.
Determine to pattern our life after the Savior more completely.
Plead for greater strength to do and to become better.
Such a prayer is a key part of the spiritual preparation for our day.

During the course of the day, we keep a prayer in our heart for continued assistance and guidance—even as Alma suggested: “Let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord” (Alma 37:36).

We notice during this particular day that there are occasions where normally we would have a tendency to speak harshly, and we do not; or we might be inclined to anger, but we are not. We discern heavenly help and strength and humbly recognize answers to our prayer. Even in that moment of recognition, we offer a silent prayer of gratitude.

At the end of our day, we kneel again and report back to our Father. We review the events of the day and express heartfelt thanks for the blessings and the help we received. We repent and, with the assistance of the Spirit of the Lord, identify ways we can do and become better tomorrow. Thus our evening prayer builds upon and is a continuation of our morning prayer. And our evening prayer also is a preparation for meaningful morning prayer.

Morning and evening prayers—and all of the prayers in between—are not unrelated, discrete events; rather, they are linked together each day and across days, weeks, months, and even years. This is in part how we fulfill the scriptural admonition to “pray always” (Luke 21:36; 3 Nephi 18:15, 18; D&C 31:12). Such meaningful prayers are instrumental in obtaining the highest blessings God holds in store for His faithful children.

Prayer becomes meaningful as we remember our relationship to Deity and heed the admonition to:

“Cry unto God for all thy support; yea, let all thy doings be unto the Lord, and whithersoever thou goest let it be in the Lord; yea, let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord; yea, let the affections of thy heart be placed upon the Lord forever.

“Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day” (Alma 37:36–37; emphasis added).

That is a long quote, but it captures the essence of how our prayers are a continuing conversation with God. I really like the idea of not only asking for the Lord's help during each day, but also reporting back to Him in the evening. It gives a sense of responsibility, of accountability, to us. It helps us to keep an eternal perspective on things and to be aware of specific things we can pray about.

Elder Bednar also talks about expressing gratitude and praying for others, both of which are also very important parts of our prayer life. There is much to be grateful for and much to be concerned about, but we can take it to our Heavenly Father and deepen our level of communication with Him. This is a fine goal for us all.

General Conference was Great!

I really enjoyed the October General Conference sessions and, more importantly, I have learned some new perspectives and been reminded of others. I gained something from each talk, but I think two in particular seemed to reach into my heart at this time. They were both given in the Saturday afternoon session, one after the other.

"Even a Child Can Understand" by Elder Gérald Caussé

"The Way" by Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge

Visit the archives and enjoy reading/listening to any talks you missed or any that you want to review. The General Relief Society Meeting talks are also part of the GC archives.

From the Archives: "The Abundant Life"

In the May 2006 Ensign there is a talk by Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin titled "The Abundant Life." This is an inspiring, hopeful talk. I loved it!

Elder Wirthlin starts with the analogy of horse sold at auction. The horse was a leftover, old and spent. Nothing anyone would want. I won't spoil the story by recounting it here--follow the link and enjoy the full details. It ties in nicely with Elder Wirthlin's point, which is a discussion of "the hidden, untapped potential that lies within each of us."

I have had the opportunity to become acquainted with many wonderful people from many walks of life. I have known rich and poor, famous and modest, wise and otherwise.

Some were burdened with heavy sorrows; others radiated a confident inner peace. Some smoldered with unquenchable bitterness, while others glowed with irrepressible joy. Some appeared defeated, while others—in spite of adversity—overcame discouragement and despair.

I have heard some claim, perhaps only partly in jest, that the only happy people are those who simply don’t have a firm grasp of what is happening around them.

But I believe otherwise.

I have known many who walk in joy and radiate happiness.

I have known many who live lives of abundance.

And I believe I know why.

Today, I want to list a few of the characteristics that the happiest people I know have in common. They are qualities that can transform ordinary existence into a life of excitement and abundance.

The characteristics of these happy people are as follows, according to Elder Wirthlin:

1. They drink deeply of living waters.
2. They fill their hearts with love.
3. They, with the help of their Heavenly Father, create a masterpiece of their lives.

Elder Wirthlin says:

Brothers and sisters, the abundant life does not come to us packaged and ready-made. It’s not something we can order and expect to find delivered with the afternoon mail. It does not come without hardship or sorrow.

It comes through faith, hope, and charity. And it comes to those who, in spite of hardship and sorrow, understand the words of one writer who said, “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.”

The abundant life isn’t something we arrive at. Rather, it is a magnificent journey that began long, long ages ago and will never, never end.

The abundant life, a life of joy and love and developed potential, is a life that our Heavenly Father wants for each of us. It is a life that we want for ourselves. Close your eyes and picture eternity. How do you want to spend that eternity? I think we would all say that we want happiness, joy, accomplishment, love, peace, and all good things. Elder Wirthlin's talk convinced me that it is possible to have an abundant life and to have it for all eternity. He describes how to reach this goal and says frankly it isn't easy. But it would be so very worth it, don't you think?

In This Election Year...

This is an election year in the United States of America. We are preparing to elect a President in November, as well as other representatives in the government. It is a very important responsibility for the voters and I can't think of a better time to read President Ezra Taft Benson's October 1987 General Conference talk, titled "Our Divine Constitution", published in the November 1987 Ensign.

I hope that we all will take seriously our duties and obligations as citizens of this great country and will study the issues and the candidates and make wise decisions about voting.

From the Archives: What is Our Work

"One of the most well-known and frequently cited passages of scripture is found in Moses 1:39. This verse clearly and concisely describes the work of the Eternal Father: 'For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man' (emphasis added).

"A companion scripture found in the Doctrine and Covenants describes with equal clarity and conciseness our primary work as the sons and daughters of the Eternal Father. Interestingly, this verse does not seem to be as well known and is not quoted with great frequency. 'Behold, this is your work, to keep my commandments, yea, with all your might, mind and strength' (D&C 11:20; emphasis added).

"Thus, the Father’s work is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of His children. Our work is to keep His commandments with all of our might, mind, and strength—and we thereby become chosen and, through the Holy Ghost, receive and recognize the tender mercies of the Lord in our daily lives."

--Elder David A. Bednar
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
“The Tender Mercies of the Lord”
p.99, May 2005 Ensign

Spiritual Maturity

I like to look around in the old Ensign magazines and read pieces that catch my attention. Besides being fun and interesting, I am reminded of some important insights into living the gospel.

One conference talk from November 1982 caught my attention. It is titled "The Meaning of Maturity" and was given by Elder Derek A. Cuthbert of the First Quorum of the Seventy. In this talk, Elder Cuthbert lists ten qualities of maturity--five are childlike and five are acquired later in life.

The first five, the childlike qualities, are innocence, humility, simplicity, faith, and love. The second five are wisdom, leadership, accountability, dependablity, and self-mastery. Elder Cuthbert comments on each of these ten qualities in an insightful way. For example, here is what he had to say about wisdom:

Sixth, then, we need to acquire wisdom, that which Solomon desired so that he could make righteous judgments. Many of us are not wise, for we are blinded by the material world around us. Wisdom comes from a realization of true values and priorities. It is a spiritual quality, for it is founded on discernment and an understanding heart. Great is the wisdom of the prophets, and all who heed them are blessed.

The Lord has counseled us to “seek not for riches but for wisdom.” (D&C 6:7.) In this general conference, pearls of wisdom have come from those who have spoken under the inspiration of the Spirit. We would all do well to study and apply the truths that have been declared.

Knowledge by itself can be dangerous, and he who seeks to acquire knowledge must also be helped to obtain wisdom. Wisdom is a sign of maturity. It is usually related to age and experience, but not necessarily so. When serving as a mission president in Scotland, I saw the Lord quicken the understanding of many young missionaries so that they developed beyond their years. Now, less than five years later, six have been called as bishops and two into stake presidencies in the British Isles, and all are giving fine leadership.

There is a lot more in Elder Cuthbert's talk, of course, but I think it is a useful guide for me and maybe some of you will find it useful, as well.

Thoughts

I took last weekend off from blogging so that I could concentrate on enjoying and learning from General Conference. I thought the talks given were so good and so helpful!

The audio, video, and text archives are online here. I think it's wonderful that they get those online so quickly so we can go back and review the talks and think more about their messages.

There is so much to the gospel. It helps me that every six months we have General Conference so that we can hear these messages. They can't possibly cover everything, of course, but the messages can highlight some much needed gospel topics that can help us with our daily lives. We can meditate on them and pray about them and learn much.

I am pleased with the calling of Elder Eyring (now President Eyring) as a counselor in the First Presidency and Elder Cook as an Apostle. Not that I would have been disappointed with whoever might have been called--after all, it is the Lord doing the calling!

Holy Week and Easter Weekend

This week and this weekend mark an important event for Christians everywhere. We commemorate the crucifixion of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and we celebrate His resurrection, which broke the bands of death and made possible an atonement with Him and with our Heavenly Father.

There are things we don't fully understand about the need for the Savior's sacrifice, but we do know it was necessary. It has made it possible for us to progress and to make corrections along our way through life. It has assured us of more life to come after this one is finished.

The focus this week on Easter and the preceding days brings to our minds so many things for which we can be grateful to our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. It reminds me of Christ's entire life and teachings and the example He set for us. Repentance and forgiveness are much on my mind and I ponder how to do a better job of applying these to my life. How can I better repent, be forgiving, and follow Christ's example?

At our General Conference last weekend, our prophets and apostles and other leaders spoke on many of the topics that I am thinking of and also gave counsel and direction for improving our lives in these and other areas. It occurs to me that being truly converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ is important for helping us to realize the necessity of all the other work we need to do on ourselves. The gift of the Holy Ghost helps us see our weaknesses and how to strengthen ourselves. Scriptures and prayer do the same.

Coming as it does near the beginning of spring, of rebirth, Easter is a very special time of year. It is a time to recommit and go forward.

General Conference Weekend

Hurray! General Conference weekend is here at last! Today's talks were, as usual, wonderfully instructive and uplifting. The afternoon session from the Tabernacle, which included the re-dedication of the Tabernacle building, was spiritual and had some wonderful tidbits of history and personal remembrances by the speakers.

Guy Murray has and is putting up some great conference notes and photos on his website, Messenger and Advocate. I recommend it highly and thank him for all the work he goes to for such great posts. He also links some other open conference threads from there, so I won't link anything else here.

I hope all of you get a chance to listen to/watch some or all of conference. It's inspiring to hear the music and the talks and the prayers.

"The Abundant Life"

In the May 2006 Ensign there is a talk by Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin titled "The Abundant Life." This is an inspiring, hopeful talk. I loved it!

Elder Wirthlin starts with the analogy of horse sold at auction. The horse was a leftover, old and spent. Nothing anyone would want. I won't spoil the story by recounting it here--follow the link and enjoy the full details. It ties in nicely with Elder Wirthlin's point, which is a discussion of "the hidden, untapped potential that lies within each of us."

I have had the opportunity to become acquainted with many wonderful people from many walks of life. I have known rich and poor, famous and modest, wise and otherwise.

Some were burdened with heavy sorrows; others radiated a confident inner peace. Some smoldered with unquenchable bitterness, while others glowed with irrepressible joy. Some appeared defeated, while others—in spite of adversity—overcame discouragement and despair.

I have heard some claim, perhaps only partly in jest, that the only happy people are those who simply don’t have a firm grasp of what is happening around them.

But I believe otherwise.

I have known many who walk in joy and radiate happiness.

I have known many who live lives of abundance.

And I believe I know why.

Today, I want to list a few of the characteristics that the happiest people I know have in common. They are qualities that can transform ordinary existence into a life of excitement and abundance.

The characteristics of these happy people are as follows, according to Elder Wirthlin:

1. They drink deeply of living waters.
2. They fill their hearts with love.
3. They, with the help of their Heavenly Father, create a masterpiece of their lives.

Elder Wirthlin says:

Brothers and sisters, the abundant life does not come to us packaged and ready-made. It’s not something we can order and expect to find delivered with the afternoon mail. It does not come without hardship or sorrow.

It comes through faith, hope, and charity. And it comes to those who, in spite of hardship and sorrow, understand the words of one writer who said, “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.”

The abundant life isn’t something we arrive at. Rather, it is a magnificent journey that began long, long ages ago and will never, never end.

The abundant life, a life of joy and love and developed potential, is a life that our Heavenly Father wants for each of us. It is a life that we want for ourselves. Close your eyes and picture eternity. How do you want to spend that eternity? I think we would all say that we want happiness, joy, accomplishment, love, peace, and all good things. Elder Wirthlin's talk convinced me that it is possible to have an abundant life and to have it for all eternity. He describes how to reach this goal and says frankly it isn't easy. But it would be so very worth it, don't you think?

I Love General Conference

I have so enjoyed General Conference. Great talks, beautiful music. I'm not taking notes this time, but Guy Murray at Messenger and Advocate has done a fantastic job of notes and has put up pictures of the GAs and Auxilary Leaders who've spoken or given a prayer. He also links to other threads/posts around the Bloggernacle for your perusal and edification. Thanks, Guy!

It seems like every talk has been something I needed to hear. I loved the one on patience yesterday. They have all covered material I need to pay attention to. Here's to improving my life!

General Conference Talks--Text Version Online

The text version (in English) of the General Conference talks is now up online here. Those who like to read can have a feast.

Someone on the 'nacle was wanting to find the poem, "The Carpenter of Nazareth," that Elder Holland read in his talk. I'm sorry I don't remember who it was or where I saw the query, but it's in his talk with a footnote telling who wrote it and where it's from. I loved that poem, too, so enjoy!

I really have appreciated General Conference this year. I always do, but the exercise of taking notes really helped me focus on what was said. It's so nice that either online or in the Ensign, we can go back and study the talks more carefully. Blessings abound!

General Conference Sunday Afternoon Notes

President Faust conducting.

Elder Ballard—We are blessed to know the Atonement of Christ. Because of Joseph Smith, we have been given much. Without the restoration, we would not know the true nature of the godhead or our divine nature or many other things. We would assume all of God’s word is in the Bible. We would not have additional scripture or Priesthood ordinances. Would not have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. Mighty change of heart because of knowledge we have. Our love for the Lord and appreciation for the restoration of the gospel should be all the motivation we need to share the gospel. Preach My Gospel increases missionaries abilities to teach and to adjust to meet needs of those they teach. They need more people to teach. Focus on love for the Lord, testimony, and gratitude. That will lead us to do all we can to assist the Lord. The Savior showed us the way when he called his disciples. He was teaching them. They could see and experience his message first hand. Our homes can be gospel-sharing homes. We can set an example and let the spirit of our home and family be our message. The D & C says we can be forgiven when we help another to be forgiven. We pray for many when we are in our homes. Create a gospel-sharing home. Easy. Families, college students, older couples, single members can all do this. Guests are welcome and feel comfortable and love to be there. These homes are ordinary, but family members clearly love each other and visitors feel the spirit of the Lord. It is not a program—it is a way of life. It means inviting friends and neighbors into the ongoing flow of gospel and church activities. We don’t have to dedicate large amounts of time developing friendships. We just have to be open. Be open about our church membership. Gospel-sharing home is not defined by people joining. We are to care, share, and invite and then leave it to them whether they accept or not. We do not just pray for the missionaries around the world—we pray for our own missionary experiences. Listen to the promptings. They will come. The Lord will guide us as we seek His divine help. Example of a French woman who is successful in sharing the gospel. Other examples. People join the church because of the example and attitude of those they know. Invite people to activities and open houses, etc. Invite them to sacrament meeting. Support the Ward leaders and mission activities. If we do some of these simple things, the Lord will lead us to find tens of thousands with whom to share the gospel.

Elder Scott—Hard to imagine anything more exciting than being a full-time missionary. Message of gospel is vital. Replaces turmoil with peace, sorrow with happiness. Preach My Gospel provides help. It has improved teaching around the world. It has strengthened our capacity to teach the gospel, the plan of salvation. Raising the bar has made a big difference, improvement in many areas. How to prepare to be a full-time missionary. Process begins in the home long before missionary age. Children best taught gospel truths in the home. Teaching can be tailored to each child. Young men should go, young women may go. Many parents are using Preach My Gospel to teach concepts to children. Children will be strengthened to do well, to go to the temple, to live worthily, to serve missions, be good spouses and parents. It’ll give you a head start. Just under 1,000,000 copies of Preach My Gospel have been distributed so far. Encourage potential missionaries to serve missions. Gives example of his daughter, Mary Lee. His grandchildren are following the example to serve. Missionaries arrive in the field better prepared. Help those who need to work to meet the standards. Urgent need for missionaries. Tells what an honorable full-time mission meant to him. After his mission, his parents became strong members. His future wife made it clear she would only marry in the temple to a returned missionary. He learned much on his mission. He pleaded with God for help. He came to love the people. His later life has brought many opportunities that his mission prepared him for. He is anxious to motivate young men to serve a mission. Also older couples and young women. It brings many blessings. Seek counsel of parents, bishop, stake president. Pray about serving a mission. Ask the Lord to guide you in whatever may be necessary to become a prepared full-time missionary. You won’t regret serving a mission, but you will regret not serving.

Elder Stone—Saw Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Would be nice to have an early warning system of approaching evil. Babylon – decadence. Every man walketh in his own way and after the image of his own god, whose image is in the likeness of the world. Live in the world but not be of that world. Create Zion in the midst of Babylon. Babylon is becoming more widespread. We have to create Zion in the midst of it and not be engulfed in Babylon’s culture. The people of God were an island in the midst of an ocean of idolatry in early times (Israel). How could Israel forget the Lord? The culture pressured them. Molded by the ethos or zeitgeist or culture. People in every culture move in a cocoon of self-satisfied…. They are influenced to think their way is right. Like puppets on a string as culture decides what is cool. Peter says we are a peculiar people (chosen generation, royal priesthood). Follow God, live by every word that cometh out of the mouth of God. Lesson of silence in the Manhattan Temple—minimal contact with outside walls to the world. This is how we can minimize Babylon’s influence on our Zion. Daniel. Young men refused to do that which they believed to be wrong. The Lord blessed them. Seduced by our culture, we often seldom recognize our idolatry. We do not need to adopt the standards of Babylon. We can have our own standards. We can live in accordance with the Lord’s moral laws. We can limit how much of Babylon can come into our Zion homes through media, etc. We will need courage to have Zion in the midst of Babylon. Sometimes we imagine courage in great episodes of danger. The opportunity to stand for that which is right come along far more frequently. No journalist will record it. We will know, though, that we did right. If Babylon is the city of the world, Zion is the city of the Lord. Zion is the pure in heart. Wherever we are, we can build Zion by the principles of the celestial kingdom. Our homes can be a refuge and protection. We do not need to be puppets of the culture and the times. We seek Zion because it is the habitation of our Lord. He will rule forever.

Elder Wood—We appear to live in an era when people are encouraged to speak without thinking, to speak from emotion, to give and take offense. Scriptures tell us that Satan and evil men will try to stir up contention and agitate people. Days of wickedness and vengeance. Wrath poured out in the last days upon the earth. First casualty of human wrath are truth and understanding. Beware of those who stir us up to such anger that calm feelings are suppressed. We must remain true to the way, the truth, and the life who is Jesus Christ. Have we slipped unknowingly into habits of stereotyping and other things? We need to raise the level of public discourse. Do not cast aspersions. Recognize good people wherever they be found. It is too easy to fall into a spirit of mockery and cynicism. There are those who watch for iniquity and make a man an offender for a word. We must cease to find fault with one another per the Lord. Hatred, …, unkindness wrong. It is not for us to criticize but rather to share our truth. World in darkness but righteous and truth also spread from heaven. We cannot afford to be caught up in a world prone to give and take offense. We must not be envious or prideful, etc. We must represent pure love of Christ. Never let us become a party to works of evil toward our brothers and sisters around the world. Let us not fall into the darkness so that we cannot see afar off. Let us be fruitful…. We must overcome with our Master the darkness of the world.

Elder Stucki—Tells story of going hunting at age 9 with new bow and arrow. Lost arrow. Prayed for help. Found arrow and ran home to get there before dark. That was the first time he’d prayed for the Lord to help him and He did. God hears our prayers and gives us the guidance we seek. Scriptures instruct us to pray. James 1:5 D & C 112:10. Prayer is a 2-way communication. It is one of the stepping stones that leads us on the path to our return to our Heavenly Father. Faith is another such stepping stone. Story of a doctor on an island. 8-year-old boy injured. Brain surgery required. All involved prayed. All helped. After 6 hours the surgery was completed and a successful outcome was achieved. Doctor grateful for all help and blessings. Neal Hutchison was the doctor. He’s now a bishop in New Zealand. Met the boy and his father. Boy is now an electrician with no ill effects from his head injury. Faith. Trust in God and in His willingness to help when needed. Joseph Smith displayed unwavering faith at 14 and Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ appeared to him. We need to pray always. If we haven’t been, we can begin now. God will hear and give us guidance and comfort. Third stepping stone is the family. Divinely ordained. Our love, loyalty, and respect for each other can become a shield to protect us from the fiery darts of the adversary, from the wickedness of the world. Use these three stepping stones to return to God.

Elder Wirthlin—Starts with story of horse auction. Bought horse named Snowman. Was gentle and reliable, but had had a hard life. Turned out to be a jumper. Became an example of hidden, untapped potential. Elder W. has met many types of people. Some overcome trials and some do not. Some are happy and live lives of abundance. First, they drink deeply of living waters. The gospel of Jesus Christ heals and binds people together. The faith of our fathers is one of hope and joy. The abundant life is a spiritual life. Some live the gospel on the surface, but need to drink deeply of living waters. Develop an unshakable faith in Christ. Prayer, study, keep commandments. Second, fill our hearts with love. Love thy neighbor as thyself. Joseph Smith reached out to others in love. Story of eight African-Americans who walked to Nauvoo to meet the prophet. Those who reach out to lift and serve others will find happiness (President Hinckley). We must get the selfishness out of our lives. Excuses will sound hollow to our Heavenly Father. Third, we can create a masterpiece of our lives. We are sons and daughters of an eternal Heavenly Father. We have potential we can scarcely imagine. There is a spark of greatness in each one of us. What we do with that gift is up to us. The abundant life does not come packaged and ready. It comes through faith and hope and charity. “In the depth of winter lies an invincible summer.” It is in the quest of the abundant life that we fulfill our eternal destiny.

President Hinckley—As we return to our homes, may we remember and express in our lives the counsel we have received. May we be fortified against the adversary. Blessing.

General Conference Sunday Morning Notes

President Monson conducting.

President Faust—We care about all of God’s children, who live now or have ever lived or will lived. Refers to 1978 official declaration. The LDS church has many beliefs in common with other churches, but we have differences, too. Testifies of the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ established his true church, but then there was a great apostasy or falling away. Priesthood keys were lost and ordinances and doctrines were changed. Falling away was seen by the Apostle Peter. Restitution would only be necessary if there had been a falling away. Reformation came in the 16th century. John Lathrop in England (Joseph Smith was descended from him.) recognized that apostolic keys were not on earth. Roger Williams believed there was no authorized person on earth. They recognized a need for restoration. Apostle John saw an angel flying in the heavens to restore the gospel. Joseph Smith restored the gospel. We want to give every person a chance to know these things. We have the authorized Priesthood, Aaronic and Melchizedek. We can act in the name of God. More priesthood keys restored in Kirtland temple in this, the final dispensation of the fullness of times. The windows of heaven are opened to those who pay tithing. Temple worship restored. Temple work unique to us, and is important and sacred. Knowledge is received there. We are here to prepare to return to God’s presence. Eternal covenants made in the temple. Families are sealed there. All, living or dead, should have the opportunity to hear the gospel. No one’s agency is taken away—they may accept or reject the gospel. Moroni was the angel that John saw restoring the gospel. Book of Mormon comes forth. It is another testament of Christ. Prior to the Restoration, the heavens had been closed for centuries. After the Restoration, they were open again. The D & C and the Pearl of Great Price are in our canon of scripture also. The gospel taught to all prophets from Adam on. We are not a break off from any other church. We should not feel superior, but should feel a great obligation to love and serve others. Philosophers (e.g., Plato, Socrates, Confucius, and others) through the ages were given a portion of the truth to help people. We respect others and need to be respected ourselves.

Elder Jeffery R. Holland—The first words Jesus spoke in his Sermon on the Mount were to the troubled and downtrodden. Elder H. speaks to those suffering trials, to those who feel their lives are broken. Offer of hope—come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest…. “Come unto me” is crucial and is key to the peace we seek. Jesus called the apostles to come and follow him. This is the key to what we are doing here. Following Jesus leads us out of darkness. No other way to be safe or to carry our burdens or find happiness. How does one follow Christ? The scriptures give many answers. First is the desire of our heart (see Alma 32). Just believing with a molecule of faith is the beginning. Next, we must change anything that holds us back. We must repent. We do so only with Jesus’ and God’s divine assistance. In this way our access to Christ’s atonement becomes as unimpeded as possible and Christ does the rest. Next we become as like him as we can. We start with baptism and go on to temple covenants. Follow the son with full purpose of heart…take upon you the name of Christ, said Nephi. Prayer and fasting and meditation and savoring the scriptures and serving others and, above all else, loving with the pure love of Christ (charity). Every time we reach out to Christ, however feebly, we find that he has been waiting to reach out to us. We need to have more experience of following the Savior’s example. True discipleship. Trouble with addiction, trouble with marriage, disease, or depression—come first to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Trust in heaven’s promises. Alma says whoever trusts in God will be supported in their trials. The Savior’s Atonement lifts us from all sins and afflictions. It gives us a reason and a way to improve. The soul that comes unto Christ finds strength beyond our own. Christ will not turn his back on us now. Whatever your distress, don’t give up and don’t yield to fear. “Be not afraid, only believe.” Christ is the answer to every disappointment. If you are broken, please know you can be mended. Quotes a poem (“The Carpenter of Nazareth” ? ). Christ mends all. Come unto Christ and be made whole.

Elder Earl Tingey—The prophet Jacob asked why not speak of the Atonement of Christ…? Alma refers to this as the Great Plan of Happiness. The immortality of the soul and man’s relation to deity. Five truths of the Great Plan of Happiness. First, knowledge of God and his Son, Jesus Christ. They have bodies of flesh and bones. Second, knowing the identity of God & Christ tells us our purpose to come and get a body. Justice and Mercy. Sin and the need to repent through the Atonement of Christ. Third, through the infinite Atonement we can overcome our sins and become completely clean again. Mercy. Alma teaches about this in his talk with his son Corianton. Only unto him that has faith unto repentance…. Adam & Eve were taught the great plan of salvation. Fourth, we are subject to two deaths, physical death and spiritual death after Adam’s Fall. We are all currently separated from God. We want to return to him. Christ’s Atonement overcame both deaths. Resurrection applies to all. Unconditional gift from God. This does not overcome the second death. We must repent for that. This life is the time for men to prepare to meet God. Do not procrastinate. Fifth, Jesus Christ was born of an earthly mother and God as his father. Inherited from both. Was mortal, but was able to give up his life and to take it again. The condescension of Christ. John Taylor said it was necessary that Christ descend below all things so He could lift others. Gethsemane shows Christ’s perfect love. The Atonement allows us to be reconciled to God.

Sister Ann Pingree—Story of older sister missionaries. They demonstrated true spiritual maturity. All of us must grow up unto the Lord. This idea is compelling. We will not mature spiritually until we put away childish things. Prayer, scripture study, keep commandments and covenants. As we do this, we grow spiritually. Willing to take upon us the Name of Christ. Being steadfast and immovable. Determined service to others is required of those who truly desire to grow up unto the Lord. Know how the Lord would have us serve each other. Lift, comfort, and encourage one another. “Hearts knit together in unity and love.” Another way is our willingness to press forward in faith, even when we don’t know what to do. Nephi looked for resolutions rather than looking at roadblocks. 1 Nephi 3:7. Trust in the Lord to help us. We will be asked to do all we can, and sometimes more than we know how to do, but if we have steadfast determination to serve others and press forward in faith, we will be shown great things. Gentle loving steadfast maturity.

Elder Dallin H Oaks—Last year millions read the Book of Mormon. We grew in many ways. What was learned depended on the reader. Desire, readiness to learn, and attunement to the Lord. God loves his children in every nation. The gospel of Jesus Christ is universal in its promise and effect. Scriptures were read by Elder Oaks showing this. Expand our vision and increase our understanding. The BoM teaches that the Savior invites all to come unto him and he denieth none of them. “Bond” includes those with physical or emotional disabilities, those subject to addictions, bound by erroneous ideas, etc. All are alike unto God. God manifesteth himself to all through the Holy Ghost. To every nation, tongue, and people. Gives examples from around the world. The BoM also teaches that Christ died for all men. We must comply with the conditions he has prescribed. Faith, repentance, and baptism. We must hearken to his voice. He desires that all men come to him. Deny yourselves of all ungodliness and love God with all your might, mind, strength…. The Abrahamic covenant opens the door to God’s choicest blessings to all. All then become the covenant people of the Lord. None of us are better than another. Some of Abraham’s descendents scattered all over the world among all nations. The Book of Mormon is a great witness that God loves all people everywhere. God has created all men and remembers all. God’s work is not yet finished. Other scriptures to come forth.

President Hinckley—Different type of talk. Faces sunset of his life. Still has some residual problems per his doctors. Expresses gratitude for God’s blessings. The Lord has watched over and guided his choices. Quotes Robert Frost “The Road Less Traveled.” “Seek ye first the kingdom of God…” Has spoken in every General Conference for the last 48 years since he became a GA. Misses his wife. Owes every good thing in his life to his activity in the church. Quotes from one of his old journals. His heart is full of love and gratitude. Not an obituary. Looks forward to speaking to us in October. Bears testimony.

General Conference Saturday Afternoon Notes

President Monson conducting.

Reports & sustaining votes.

Elder Boyd K. Packer—Talks of Alma and his son Corianton. Neglected his mission and allowed Satan to lead him into immorality. Cannot hide one’s crimes from God. Drove away investigators because they saw Corianton’s bad conduct. The preaching of the word of God is more powerful than anything else, including the sword. The coming of Christ spoken of. Alma teaches Corianton some gospel truths about resurrection. The justice of God and the punishment of the sinner explained. Justice and mercy each have their role. Mercy depends on an Atonement. The unwavering stand of eternal law. Alma knew personally about punishment and repentance. He felt the agony of guilt. His mind caught hold of the thought of Jesus Christ and he pleaded for mercy. He was redeemed. Joy and light. Alma then worked unceasingly to save others. Mercy cannot rob Justice. Alma rebuked Corianton then showed him love. Joseph Smith taught that we may have to reprove, but should afterwards show an increase of love. Corianton’s grandfather, Alma, had served as a priest in King Noah’s court. He was converted by Abinadi’s words. Corianton repented. Sent to preach more. He stayed faithful. It is a wicked world we live in today. No way to escape influence. Many are tempted. Satan harvests his crop and binds them down. He is the deceiver. He convinces some they are born into a life of sin and that they can’t repent and be forgiven. But the Atonement means that they can repent and be forgiven. Gospel of Jesus Christ is the gospel of repentance and forgiveness. Those who may stumble and fall are not cast off forever. The Lord cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance, but the soul that repents is forgiven and the Lord remembers their sins no more.

Elder David Bednar—Baptism is first ordinance of the gospel. It must be followed by baptism by fire (the gift of the Holy Ghost) to be complete. Blessings flow from the companionship of the Holy Ghost. God determines conditions of all gospel covenants. We can use our agency and accept these conditions. Fundamental convenants of baptism: take upon us Christ’s name and always remember him and keep his commandments. Then we will always have his spirit to be with us. We are then confirmed to “receive” the Holy Ghost. This is a directive to strive for the baptism of the spirit. Joseph Smith taught that both baptisms are necessary. Then cometh a remission of your sins. As we learn about the Holy Ghost, we learn that the promptings aren’t always alike or always easily recognized. The Holy Ghost is a still small voice. Its promptings are delicate and subtle. We should seek diligently to recognize and act on promptings. We should also endeavor to discern when we withdraw ourselves from the Spirit of the Lord. We should attend to and learn from the choices that separate us from the Holy Ghost. We should then stop those choices. Entertainment is one example of something that might drive away the spirit. Taking the Holy Spirit for our guide is possible and it is essential for our salvation. The covenant promises that we may always have the spirit to be with us. Book of Mormon is the primary source to turn to for help in this. Read about the Liahona—it is a type and a shadow for our day and tells what we should do to enjoy the gift of the Holy Ghost. What caused the Liahona to work and to not work? If we study this, we will receive inspiration tailored to our needs in this matter. What made it work is what makes the Holy Ghost able to work in our lives (faithful, diligent, heed). What made it not work (slothfulness, unfaithful, forgetfulness) will cause us to draw ourselves away from the Holy Ghost. We each have a spiritual compass—the Holy Ghost. As we press forward in life, we receive direction from the Holy Ghost just as Lehi received direction from the Liahona and will show us all things that we should do. Let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly…. The Holy Ghost can teach us to understand the Lord and His ways. It can be our guide and can bless us with inspiration, direction, protection. Obedience, faithfulness, diligence, service, humble. Avoid evil that causes us to withdraw ourselves. Also worthily partaking of the sacrament brings the Holy Ghost to us as we renew our baptismal convenants. Then we become worthy vessels in whom the spirit of the Lord can dwell. Joseph Smith emphasized staying close to the spirit—obtain and keep the spirit of the Lord. .

Elder Evans—Joy in doing the work of the Lord. Missionaries often have difficult circumstances, but can still be happy as they serve the Lord. The Lord loves faithful missionaries. It was necessary to raise the bar of standards for missionaries so they will have the protection of the Lord in this day and age. Discouragement is replaced by commitment. Forget yourself and get lost in this great cause (sharing the gospel). This will make you happy. Serve and live faithfully.

Elder Paul—Our road would be chaotic if everyone did just what they want to do. Media promotes this. Our Heavenly Father has given us a better way. The great plan of happiness makes us truly free and happy. We are free to choose liberty and eternal life, or captivity and misery. We brought our agency with us from our heavenly home. Agency is an eternal law. Brigham Young said it has always existed and always will. Jesus Christ defended agency against Lucifer (Satan). “We will prove them herewith to see if they will do all things which the Lord their God shall command them.” In order to use our agency, we must have knowledge of good and evil. We must have agency to choose between them. There must be consequences of our choices. Christ set the perfect example for all of us on how to use our agency. We should make our choices by the same criteria—the will of our Heavenly Father. It may not always be convenient, but if we make the right choice, the Lord will take care of us. We may not see it, but He will. Things will turn into a blessing if we do the Lord’s will. Agency is a great gift.

Elder Russell M.Nelson—This is a day of disintegrating morals. Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. The family is all important. One of Satan’s cunning methods is to attack marriage and the family. Marriages would be happier if nurtured more carefully. In the Lord’s own way and time, no blessings will be withheld. Step one: comprehend the doctrinal foundation of marriage. One man and one woman. So the earth might answer the ends of its creation. Other definitions of marriage are contrary to the plans of God. Marriage is the foundry for social order. Marriage is an eternal covenant. Should be treasured and honored. (Refers much to the Proclamation on the Family.) Families are eternal. Marriage is a commandment. True happiness is predicated upon personal purity. Marriage should lift husbands and wives to exaltation in celestial glory. Agency and accountability are other doctrines related to marriage. Foremost priesthood duty is to nurture your marriage. Step Two: Specific methods. Appreciate, communicate, and contemplate. Grateful partners should look for the good in each other. Good communication means planning together, talking and listening together, help each other as equal partners, elevate and motivate each other, goals are mutually understand, prayer. If couples contemplate often with each other in the temple, they will remember sacred covenants. They will be in tune with each other and the Lord. Begin with a sincere desire to nurture the marriage. Be selfless and grateful. Set goals. Vision expanded and understanding enhanced. Quotes the song “Because.”

Elder L. Tom Perry—Anticipated the day of receiving the Aaronic Priesthood. D & C 13. What it means to bear the holy priesthood. Using God’s power worthily. Passing sacrament. Not all approach taking the sacrament in the same way. For some it is a matter of routine. For others, they approach it with reverence. The sacrament is a reminder of our covenants and our promises. Started with Adam making sacrifices to God, even before he understood why. This continued until Christ’s atoning sacrifice. The night before, Jesus established the ordinance of the sacrament at the Last Supper. Requires that we follow Him and obey His will. Matthew 26. 3 Nephi 18. A testimony to the Father that we shall always remember Jesus and keep His commandments. Promise: we will have His spirit to be with us. Renews baptismal covenants. The gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ is a covenant between us and our Heavenly Father. One of the most sacred ordinances in the church. Meditate on the atoning sacrifice of the Savior. Must not become casual or we will lose the opportunity for spiritual growth. Spiritual wounds are healed. Must partake worthily. Must live by every word that cometh forth from the mouth of God. Renewal and commitment. Prepare. Attend sacrament meeting with reverence and with gratitude. Keep oneself more fully unspotted from the world. Realize the blessing of being able to take the sacrament.

General Conference Saturday Morning Notes

At the encouragement of a fellow blogger (thanks!), I am posting my conference notes. Please forgive the mistakes and the things missed and enjoy!
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President Faust conducting.

Elder Hales--Lehi chose to follow the Lord. Led family to land of promise. Laman and Lemuel used their agency to disobey the Lord. Lehi urged repentance and faithfulness. To Jacob, Lehi left one final lesson—the plan of salvation and the gift of agency. Man taught to know right from wrong, starting in pre-mortal existence. Satan cast out for rebellion and took one-third of the hosts of heaven. All used their agency. We used ours to remain faithful to the Lord. We rejoiced at our opportunities on earth. Opposition is essential to bring about the Lord’s purposes. Man to act for himself and must be enticed by good and evil. Adam fell. Earth became a state of probation. “Adam fell that men might be and men are that they might have joy.” Satan wants us to yield to sin. The adversary can never have joy unless we sin. (President Kimball quote) Our sins make the devil laugh. Our sorrows give Satan counterfeit joy. The adversary cannot make us do anything, even though he follows us every day. He must depart if we tell him to. He cannot influence us unless we let him. We do not have to succumb to his enticements. That’s why we have the Light of Christ and the Holy Ghost and the Priesthood. Are we holding on to the Iron Rod? Do we get on the strait and narrow path and stay there? Lehi taught Jacob that the Savior freed men—they can act for themselves and not be acted upon. We must act to avoid being acted upon, to avoid evil. Promptings can come to us to flee evil. The Lord prompts us because he is aware of us and our situations. We must heed the gentle promptings of the spirit. If we ignore them, we will lose them and be walking in spiritual darkness at noonday and wander in strange paths and be lost. For example, if we choose to go into debt, our choices are restricted. To retain our agency, we must walk in the light of the Savior and be obedient. We must choose to exercise our agency. We can climb out of black holes, or darkness, by using our agency, which the adversary cannot take away unless we let him. We regain our agency through faith and obedience. Choose to believe that we are the child of God and put everything on his altar and be obedient. Pray and study scriptures, go to church, have wholesome interaction with others. Keep covenants and commandments—baptism, sacrament, temple ordinances. Choose to believe in the Atonement. Accept the Savior’s forgiveness and also forgive yourself. Refuse to feel shame over past sins or to be discouraged. Our agency is not only for us, but we should use it to strengthen others. Invite others to receive the light of the gospel. Through friendship and love, lead them in gospel paths. Agency helps us show our inner spirituality through outward actions. Our use of agency determines who we are and what we’ll be. Faith and obedience strengthens our agency.

Bishop Burton—People responded to help those who suffered Katrina and other natural disasters. Compassion is important. We share one another’s burdens. The Savior asks us to suffer the weak, lift the hands that hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees. Bishop B. gives many examples of help given to tsunami victims and others all over the world. (Leaders of mosques (in tsunami areas) would announce that another donation from the Jesus church—us—had arrived.) Many letters of gratitude received. Welfare principles of work and self-reliance are maintained and training is provided to many for digging wells and raising gardens and for medical procedures. We collaborate with other agencies. Our giving is not limited to members of our church, but extends to all, no matter their nationality or religion. May we bless humanity. This selflessness demonstrates the pure love of Christ—charity. With what measure we mete out, it shall be meted unto us. Bishop B. expresses gratitude to all who give and help.

Sister Beck (Young Women’s Presidency)—This is truly a day of rejoicing. In Kirtland all remaining priesthood keys were restored. Men and women are given equal responsibilities and blessings. Privileges are enjoyed by all because of the priesthood blessings. Women are not third party observers. All can enjoy gifts and blessings through the priesthood. Same ordinances are for all. We qualify for the gift of the Holy Ghost by our faithfulness and no other way. All are taught to prepare to go to the temple. We are all endowed with power from on high. We are empowered and protected by our covenants. We all share equally in all spiritual gifts. Sister Beck was often ill as a child and was blessed by the spiritual gifts of both her parents. President Woodruff said it was the privilege of every man and woman to receive the gift of prophecy. Through the blessings of the priesthood, the Lord shows us that He is no respecter of persons. The poor and materially deprived of the world can have the same spiritual blessings as we more privileged persons. Priesthood blessings are the great equalizer. They are the same for all. Every power and covenant we need to return to God has been given to us all.

Elder Eyring—The prophets of God have seen the days we live in. The peril of the last days is great and comes from the forces of evil. It will become harder not easier to keep our covenants. For hope, we know that the Lord has spoken of a safe place for us. Paul said it was upon the rock of our Redeemer that we must build, which is a sure foundation. It has never been more important than to know how to build that foundation. See the last sermon of King Benjamin. He could see our day. He knew how to build that foundation of the rock of safety. People have to believe that the danger is real. He made clear the hazards we face because we are free to choose between right and wrong. “For behold there is a woe pronounced upon….” Consequences of those who die in their sins. Lively sense of own guilt which causes him to shrink from the presence of the Lord. King Benjamin wants us to remember the awful situation of those who have fallen into sin. Judgment Day. How to earn the hope of hearing the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” Atonement. Change of heart. Become as a little child. This is not to be childish, but rather to be like the Savior who prayed to his father to know his will and then did it. Yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit and put off the natural man. Humble, patient, full of love, submit to all our Father seest fit to subject us to. The things we do are the means, not the ends, of what we seek. We become as the Savior as our natures change to be more obedient and loving. We must keep that. Then we will be safe upon that sure rock. Pray when choices can have eternal consequences. Pray for what the Lord wants, want his will is. We may not receive a promise of the outcome, but we will know we are doing God’s will. Our hearts must be still and quiet as a little child so we can receive the promptings of the Holy Ghost. To invite that change, we must build our faith in Jesus Christ to qualify for the gift of the Holy Ghost. Faith in Jesus and love for him—know who He is. We cannot serve a master we do not know. As we love and serve the Savior, we will come to know Him. To be called to serve is a call to come to know our Father and to change our natures. It will take determination and effort. Pray to avoid temptation. Resist temptations. We are responsible for ourselves. King Benjamin warned against sins and said to watch ourselves and our thoughts, words, and deeds. Pray for faith and humility to repent. The standard is not too high for us. The Savior can succor us—we can be cleansed and become pure and strong as a little child.

President Monson—Satan has fashioned lures to ensnare unsuspecting persons and seize control of their futures. To be safe, we must recognize what they are and be determined to avoid them. A current lure is immorality. Chastity and virtue are precious above all things. Paul said that no temptation has taken you but such as is common to man, but God will not tempt you above that you are able, but will make a way to escape. Another lure is pornography. Alexander Pope’s famous poem about Vice. The internet is one of the most accessible sources of pornography. President Hinckley said it is vicious, etc. Victims are impoverished. Long gone are the restraints of yesteryear. We are surrounded by pornography. Resist and avoid it. Another lure is drugs and alcohol. Difficult to abandon. Shatter lives. Often available. We have been commanded to care for our bodies and will be accountable. Paul said we are God’s temples. Keep our bodies clean. Another lure is excessive debt. We want to have things and borrowing is easy. The day of reckoning will come if we continue to live beyond our means. We think luxuries are necessities. We go into debt, then things change. We become ill or laid off of our jobs. Our debts hang over our heads and threaten to destroy us. We must live within our means and then we will be much happier. Debt is bondage. There are many other lures that Satan uses to lead us from the paths of righteousness. The Lord has given us the power to resist any temptation and to choose the right way. Beware the detours, the pitfalls, the traps. Ignore the lures. Do not be deceived. Pause to pray. Listen to that still small voice. Listen to and obey the Master’s invitation to come, follow me. There are those who won’t obey. Cardinal Woolsey was powerful, but prideful ambition brought his fall. He served his king instead of his God. Daniel was tempted, but stayed faithful to God. He rose to great heights, but he listened to God and not man and was thrown into the lions’s den. God protected Daniel and he was safe. Daniel’s determination to remain true and faithful provided God’s protection to him, and a safe place. Story of Bro. & Sis. Walker. The faithful beat a path to their door to partake of the spirit that they had. “Who honors God, God honors.” Resolve to follow that straight path that leads to God. Make corrections in our lives now. Be true to the faith. Quoted from hymn “True to the Faith.”

General Conference Blogging Round-Up with Links

Actually, I thought I'd link up some of the blog posts about General Conference. First, at conversation where I also blog, there is a conference thread called "I am so excited." Then at Messenger and Advocate Guy Murray is posting some wonderful summaries of the sessions here and here. Times & Seasons is posting an open thread for each session here, here, and here. Kim Siever has an open thread here at Our Thoughts. I'm sure there are others I've missed--drop by Mormon Archipelago to check for them.

I enjoyed both sessions of conference today. No pictures for me--I listen over the internet--but the talks were interesting and insightful.

Edited to add: Guy's notes on the Priesthood session and also Bryce's notes (at Millenial Star) on the Priesthood session. Great job, gentlemen!!!

General Conference

I enjoyed General Conference--listened at home over the internet. No distractions that way.

I felt that the talks were somehow more powerful this time. Or perhaps I was more ready to hear the messages, or in more need of the messages.

I will not try to comment on specifics because I listened and did not take notes. Rather, I absorbed the spirit and thought about what was said. That means that afterwards, after 8 hours of talks, they all ran together! But that is okay. I like to review everything when the Ensign comes out.

I hope all of you enjoyed General Conference in your favorite way, as well.

After Sunday's Conference Sessions

Well, conference is over for another 6 months. No big changes announced. Maybe what President Hinckley was referring to when he was joking with the reporter about a secret was that his son would be called as a Seventy.

Lots of good talks today and, once again, my mind can't retain them all. I liked Elder Bednar's talk on the tender mercies of the Lord. And they sang my favorite hymn, "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty." I say my favorite--I have a number of favorite hymns, just as I have a number of favorite scriptures!

I thought President Hinckley's talk about what the Lord revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith was good. It was a useful way to talk about the Prophet and about what is different in the LDS church. I would think nonmembers and new members would gain understanding from hearing that.

I guess I will just have to listen again when they put the sessions up on the internet. It helps me most when I get my hands on the conference issue of the Ensign.

After Saturday's Conference Sessions

I enjoyed today's two conference sessions very much. Wish I could retain more, but I excuse myself by saying it is a lot of information to process!

I enjoyed Elder Packer's and Elder Uchtdorf's talks dealing with testimony. Elder Wirthlin's talk on kindness was a good reminder. I enjoyed all the talks and found them uplifting. Elder Uchtdorf is a powerful speaker, is he not? In both what he says and how he says it, he is inspiring to listen to.

I love to hear the choirs sing, too, and I am glad they sing favorite hymns. I can then sing along as I listen over the internet.

I thought it was nice that President Hinckley spoke of the Pope and offered sympathy to the Catholic people. I think Pope John Paul II was a good man and that our Heavenly Father appreciates his efforts to serve. Mother Teresa is another who exemplified service to me.

Conference time usually brings up questions of various kinds by those who would like to see one change or another in the way things are done. There was a statement made on a forum that I really appreciated. One person had stated that he was praying for a certain change and another said (I'm paraphrasing here) that that was fine as long as he was praying an equal amount to understand and accept the way things are now. I know that thinking people are going to see things that they feel should be changed in the church, and they are going to talk about them and pray for the change. But I think it is important that we remember we are led by our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ through our prophet. So along with pondering changes, I would hope that we also pray to understand and accept what is. We don't always understand easily or quickly, and so we could benefit by effort in that direction. I know that I could.

One of the things I love about the gospel is that there is so much to it. It has depth and breadth and height. There is always more to learn and more to understand. Also, I find that my understanding grows deeper as I experience life. Elder Packer touched on this this morning, mentioning how verses about concern for teaching one's children the gospel really didn't mean much to him until he became a father and then a grandfather. Different things reach us at different times in our life.

Much to ponder. And I look forward to being able to study the talks in the Ensign or relisten to them when they are up on the church's website.