It has been over 9 months since this mobilization started. Today was the first time I have had sacrament meeting by myself. In the back of my mind, I worried just a bit about this. One of our members is experiencing visa problems, so he has not been able to make it back from his vacation. Two others were transferred to different camps, leaving me as the only LDS member (to my knowledge) on the camp. Previously, more than once, it looked like nobody would be there as I was setting up for a sacrament meeting. Then, at the last minute, someone would come through the chapel door.
Today, nobody came. A coalition soldier was in the chapel making tea and asked if I wanted some :) Then he started playing on the keyboard, so I asked him if he was going to play for my service. "What time is your service?" he asked. "1500," I said. I looked at my watch; it was a few minutes past 1500. He then gathered into the office with the Canadian Padre and the Chaplain Assistant while I finished setting up. I plugged my computer into the sound system and began the service by singing, "Press Forward Saints." As soon as I began singing, I did not feel alone. The warmth of the spirit testified to me that although my voice was the only one I heard, I was not alone. I conducted the district business (I am on the district council) and raised my hand in a vote of thanks, and again for a sustaining vote of two chaplains I knew who had just been called to the district council. It felt like a normal meeting. After the sacrament hymn, "There is a Green Hill Far Away," I blessed and passed the sacrament, and enjoyed the reverent quiet while doing so.
The message consisted of me standing at the podium, quietly reading over the talk that I was still preparing for Sunday night's Protestant gospel service. The text was Matthew 6:19-34. The theme of the message was: our uncertainty is God's opportunity. God is asking us to trust him completely. He who formed us is certainly able to sustain us. When we come to know Him more fully, we will have an increased capacity to trust him completely. Our moments of uncertainty and difficulty are opportunities for God to reveal to us who he really is, how willing and able he is to provide for us, and how much he truly cares for us. Moses, Gideon, and David are all examples of how reliance on God won the day. Think of the handcart pioneers who suffered brutally while crossing the frozen plains. One of these hearty pioneers noted that, "we came to know Him [God] in our extremities."
When we have come to the place where we know we have done all and can go no further, God is there to clear the way for us to pass, just as he did for Moses at the Red Sea, with the armies of Pharaoh bearing down upon his people, Israel. We might have our armies reduced to a handful of men, like Gideon, but if we stay true to our faith, we will recognize God's hand leading us to victory. Then we will know the victory is the Lord's completely, and not our own. David chose to come in the name of God, instead of wearing Saul's armor, when he confronted Goliath. His trust and faith bore fruit as he slew the giant that all Israel feared.
When God asks us to trust Him in difficult circumstances, it is not so much to test us, as it is to reveal Himself to us. These experiences cause our faith to grow and our testimony to be a firm foundation, built upon the rock of Christ.
Jesus is our ultimate example of trusting God. When the hour was dark as he hung on that cruel cross, his trust in his Father did not waiver. With his last breath he declared, "Father, into thy hands I commend my Spirit" (Luke 23:46). May we trust God, and so follow the Spirit, especially in our dark hour. "For we walk by faith, not by sight." God will give us the courage to do so, I testify, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Christmas at Camp Alamo
Today we had our Christmas General Protestant service. To accommodate an increased number of people wanting to attend on Christmas, we held the service in the overflow tent next to the dining facility. It was heated, so we didn't have to worry about being cold (except for the fact that we turned the heater off because it was so warm right before the meeting!) We sang 6 carols interspersed with passages from Luke 2. After this we had our a group prayer where we prayed for specific prayer requests. Then I gave a brief message. It was along the lines of what is written below. I could feel the support of God's Spirit, helping me to remember the message without looking at the text I had printed out, and guiding and ordering my thoughts. Yes, I miss my family; I wish I could be with them. Yet, today, all I could think about was how much I have to be grateful for. We have it pretty good here, we are well fed, have hot showers, warm food, and comfortable quarters. At our Christmas dinner, the base support group commander, who is Bhuddist, offered a blessing on the food, then asked me to finish the blessing. I was touched that he remembered the spiritual aspect of this holiday. This, for me, was quite an act of solidarity, bringing together people of different faiths, to remember what is at the heart of the Christmas season. Please pray for the soldiers that are out doing missions all over Afghanistan. Thank you for your friendship and support; it truly makes a difference! Merry Christmas!
Message:
How many of us have felt overwhelmed at the responsibility of raising our first child? Not much can prepare a person to rear a child, yet God called and prepared Mary and Joseph to raise Jesus. Joseph was compassionate. Mary was obedient. This was indeed a holy family, prepared to welcome in the Savior of the world.
Joseph had every right to divorce Mary. She was with child, before their upcoming marriage. He could have had her publicly humiliated, even stoned. Instead, he made up his mind to divorce her privately, because he was a “just man” (v. 19). He did not know what had happened, but he could not marry someone who could not keep the simple vows associated with betrothal. This, of course was before he had knowledge of the divinity of the child in Mary’s womb. Did she attempt to tell her future husband? Was there not much of an opportunity to do so? It is likely that Joseph was a patient man; it seems he did not react emotionally or violently.
Did Joseph feel betrayed? What disappointment did he feel at having learned that Mary was with child and the baby was not his? What about all his hopes and aspirations for life with his new bride? They were at this point all dashed to pieces. According to the law, and he must obey the law, he could not go through with this marriage. The law was broken, and there were consequences that must come. But what about his feelings for Mary, his beloved bride to be? What an emotional time for Joseph; surely he was torn inside as to the outcome of these events.
Joseph’s situation was difficult, but Mary would be the object of scorn and derision when her pregnancy was made known to the community and beyond. She was the one to bear this heavy burden. Once Mary’s good name was lost in the community it could not be regained. This trial was magnified by the communal society in which they lived. Families stayed together; they did not just have the luxury of moving to some distant relatives to get a fresh start. Why had she been asked to pass through this trial? Who would believe her that she was visited by an angel? Who would believe her that the babe now in her womb would be the promised Messiah, who would rule Israel from the throne of David? How did Mary cope with the doubts that must have arisen in her heart? Did the angel really appear to her and call her to this most holy service?
The same angel that visited Mary mercifully visited Joseph to calm his fears and anxieties. What a relief this must have been! He still had to act in faith, to take Mary as his wife when it appeared to all around them that she had defaulted on her vow. Joseph acted with compassion, then faith.
Mary’s response to the angel’s message was this: “Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). This echoed Jesus’ response in the Garden of Gethsemane: “Nevertheless, not my will, but thine be done.” Would that we had this submissive attitude! To align our wills with the word of God! Jesus’ will was so aligned to his Father’s that John records: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1, KJV).
This was a holy family indeed, chosen and set apart to nurture the Son of God. This Christmas season, we are acutely aware of how much family is a part of this holiday. It is a blessing to be apart from our families to feel this realization vividly, that we appreciate our family the entire year, and not just at Christmas. I pray that each of us will lead our families in truth and righteousness, in Christ, that God may use our families to accomplish his great and marvelous purposes—just as he did with that young family over 2000 years ago. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Message:
How many of us have felt overwhelmed at the responsibility of raising our first child? Not much can prepare a person to rear a child, yet God called and prepared Mary and Joseph to raise Jesus. Joseph was compassionate. Mary was obedient. This was indeed a holy family, prepared to welcome in the Savior of the world.
Joseph had every right to divorce Mary. She was with child, before their upcoming marriage. He could have had her publicly humiliated, even stoned. Instead, he made up his mind to divorce her privately, because he was a “just man” (v. 19). He did not know what had happened, but he could not marry someone who could not keep the simple vows associated with betrothal. This, of course was before he had knowledge of the divinity of the child in Mary’s womb. Did she attempt to tell her future husband? Was there not much of an opportunity to do so? It is likely that Joseph was a patient man; it seems he did not react emotionally or violently.
Did Joseph feel betrayed? What disappointment did he feel at having learned that Mary was with child and the baby was not his? What about all his hopes and aspirations for life with his new bride? They were at this point all dashed to pieces. According to the law, and he must obey the law, he could not go through with this marriage. The law was broken, and there were consequences that must come. But what about his feelings for Mary, his beloved bride to be? What an emotional time for Joseph; surely he was torn inside as to the outcome of these events.
Joseph’s situation was difficult, but Mary would be the object of scorn and derision when her pregnancy was made known to the community and beyond. She was the one to bear this heavy burden. Once Mary’s good name was lost in the community it could not be regained. This trial was magnified by the communal society in which they lived. Families stayed together; they did not just have the luxury of moving to some distant relatives to get a fresh start. Why had she been asked to pass through this trial? Who would believe her that she was visited by an angel? Who would believe her that the babe now in her womb would be the promised Messiah, who would rule Israel from the throne of David? How did Mary cope with the doubts that must have arisen in her heart? Did the angel really appear to her and call her to this most holy service?
The same angel that visited Mary mercifully visited Joseph to calm his fears and anxieties. What a relief this must have been! He still had to act in faith, to take Mary as his wife when it appeared to all around them that she had defaulted on her vow. Joseph acted with compassion, then faith.
Mary’s response to the angel’s message was this: “Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). This echoed Jesus’ response in the Garden of Gethsemane: “Nevertheless, not my will, but thine be done.” Would that we had this submissive attitude! To align our wills with the word of God! Jesus’ will was so aligned to his Father’s that John records: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1, KJV).
This was a holy family indeed, chosen and set apart to nurture the Son of God. This Christmas season, we are acutely aware of how much family is a part of this holiday. It is a blessing to be apart from our families to feel this realization vividly, that we appreciate our family the entire year, and not just at Christmas. I pray that each of us will lead our families in truth and righteousness, in Christ, that God may use our families to accomplish his great and marvelous purposes—just as he did with that young family over 2000 years ago. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
This week
This has not been the best week. We have already had 2 memorial services and will likely have another coming up, to honor those who lost their lives in the tragic attacks of last weekend. Remembrance Day (English Commonwealth's [Great Britain, Canada, Australia] equivalent of Veteran's Day) will take on added significance in light of its close proximity to these recent events. As a chaplain I have been asked to give prayers and remarks in these services. The Australain Artillery unit (they mentor the Afgahn National Army Artillery School) has adopted me as their chaplain. They have had 3 memorial services since I have been here, and I pray that there will be no more. This is my first deployment, so experiencing the emotions that go along with these events has been a new experience for me. The Aussies are a very experienced unit, and have been good mentors for me. Right after we got the bad news last week, the Australian Sergeant Major advised me to go ahead with the weekly watercolor class I was to teach that night. I followed his advice and it was good to do something that got my mind off the day's events and brought a little peace (the soothing music was very helpful). Three soldiers came and painted, so I was glad we went ahead with it.
This evening we ate with the Afghans. We had gushte gusfan (lamb) that had just been slaughtered today. It was very tender, and we ate it with some shredded cabbage, mini-limes, and non (bread). It was interesting to see inside the Afghan military dining facility. Some of the cooking pots are so large, you could literally take a bath in them! The civilian contractor who mentors their dining facility operations said that they serve about 13,000 meals a day!
Afghanistan does not have daylight savings time, so it has been getting dark here around 5:30pm for a while. The weather here has been beautiful of late--cool, clear skies. I am well-fed and get to work out at the gym regularly; I have no complaints. I just miss my family!
This evening we ate with the Afghans. We had gushte gusfan (lamb) that had just been slaughtered today. It was very tender, and we ate it with some shredded cabbage, mini-limes, and non (bread). It was interesting to see inside the Afghan military dining facility. Some of the cooking pots are so large, you could literally take a bath in them! The civilian contractor who mentors their dining facility operations said that they serve about 13,000 meals a day!
Afghanistan does not have daylight savings time, so it has been getting dark here around 5:30pm for a while. The weather here has been beautiful of late--cool, clear skies. I am well-fed and get to work out at the gym regularly; I have no complaints. I just miss my family!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
This week in sports...
Last weekend, I saw something that disturbed me. Two opposing coaches from NFL football teams were ready to go to blows after a football game. Players and other coaches had to restrain them. It started when one coach greeted the losing coach, who interpreted his greeting the wrong way, and chased him down on the way to the locker room. Neither coach was fined, but it seemed a poor display of sportsmanship.
Contrast this with what I witnessed yesterday, while watching the BYU vs Idoaho State football game. BYU's Kyle Van Noy, a defensive player, knocked down his opponent after the play had been stopped. It was a late hit, and he was penalized. The hit also injured the player, Idaho State's All-American punter. Punters are usually quite a bit smaller than the other players on the team, so it made the late hit that much more reprehensible. At half time, a reporter asked the coach of the injured player a question about his team's play. The coach responded that he didn't expect his talented punter to be knocked out of the game on a cheap hit, and he didn't expect that it would happen here at Brigham Young University, a church owned and operated school. He did not hide his disappointment and disdain for what had taken place, and quickly left the reporter after making his comment. What a bad situation, I thought to myself. Idaho State was already getting blown out, and now hard feelings over this late hit could linger with the players an coaches from Idaho State.
When the final whistle signaled the end of the game, BYU coach Bronco Mendenhall walked purposefully to the middle of the field. The broadcast could not pick up his comments, but one could only guess that he was offering some words of apology. Then, Idaho State's coach, Mike Kramer, put his arm around the back of Mendenhall's head and pulled him in close, speaking in his ear. When their heads separated, they seemed to have a professional, cordial demeanor. As soon as their exchange ended, Kyle Van Noy, was ready and waiting, as he had been defensively the whole game. Only this time, he was not there to deliver a hit, but an apology. His facial expression and posture seemed to communicate a sincere desire to let Coach Kramer know that he was sorry for what had happened. Then, Kramer pulled him close the same way he did with Mendenhall, and spoke in his ear. Their exchange ended and both seemed to be satisfied. Good feelings seemed to prevail on both sides, as players from opposing sides were seen smiling and conversing with each other. What a fortunate end to this game; it could have been otherwise. Instead of bitterness and resentment, there seemed to be a spirit of reconciliation and forgiveness.
Know that Idaho State's coach had every right to be upset; his talented punter suffered a concussion from the late hit and will likely miss next week's game. Yet, this did not seem to stand in the way of Mike Kramer extending forgiveness to those who sincerely sought it. Usually after I spend 3+ hours watching a football game, (one that I have looked forward to the whole week), I am not left with much in return, besides some lost sleep (the game started at 1130pm my time) and the fleeting enjoyment of watching my favorite team. This time it was different. I was left with a positive feeling after seeing those two coaches and that player come together in a spirit of unity that transcended the spirited competition on the playing field. This, above all of the exciting plays from the game itself, is what I will remember. Below is the link to the article.
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700190592/BYU-football-Kyle-Van-Noy-apologizes-for-late-hit-on-punter.html
Contrast this with what I witnessed yesterday, while watching the BYU vs Idoaho State football game. BYU's Kyle Van Noy, a defensive player, knocked down his opponent after the play had been stopped. It was a late hit, and he was penalized. The hit also injured the player, Idaho State's All-American punter. Punters are usually quite a bit smaller than the other players on the team, so it made the late hit that much more reprehensible. At half time, a reporter asked the coach of the injured player a question about his team's play. The coach responded that he didn't expect his talented punter to be knocked out of the game on a cheap hit, and he didn't expect that it would happen here at Brigham Young University, a church owned and operated school. He did not hide his disappointment and disdain for what had taken place, and quickly left the reporter after making his comment. What a bad situation, I thought to myself. Idaho State was already getting blown out, and now hard feelings over this late hit could linger with the players an coaches from Idaho State.
When the final whistle signaled the end of the game, BYU coach Bronco Mendenhall walked purposefully to the middle of the field. The broadcast could not pick up his comments, but one could only guess that he was offering some words of apology. Then, Idaho State's coach, Mike Kramer, put his arm around the back of Mendenhall's head and pulled him in close, speaking in his ear. When their heads separated, they seemed to have a professional, cordial demeanor. As soon as their exchange ended, Kyle Van Noy, was ready and waiting, as he had been defensively the whole game. Only this time, he was not there to deliver a hit, but an apology. His facial expression and posture seemed to communicate a sincere desire to let Coach Kramer know that he was sorry for what had happened. Then, Kramer pulled him close the same way he did with Mendenhall, and spoke in his ear. Their exchange ended and both seemed to be satisfied. Good feelings seemed to prevail on both sides, as players from opposing sides were seen smiling and conversing with each other. What a fortunate end to this game; it could have been otherwise. Instead of bitterness and resentment, there seemed to be a spirit of reconciliation and forgiveness.
Know that Idaho State's coach had every right to be upset; his talented punter suffered a concussion from the late hit and will likely miss next week's game. Yet, this did not seem to stand in the way of Mike Kramer extending forgiveness to those who sincerely sought it. Usually after I spend 3+ hours watching a football game, (one that I have looked forward to the whole week), I am not left with much in return, besides some lost sleep (the game started at 1130pm my time) and the fleeting enjoyment of watching my favorite team. This time it was different. I was left with a positive feeling after seeing those two coaches and that player come together in a spirit of unity that transcended the spirited competition on the playing field. This, above all of the exciting plays from the game itself, is what I will remember. Below is the link to the article.
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700190592/BYU-football-Kyle-Van-Noy-apologizes-for-late-hit-on-punter.html
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Terry Fox Run
A few weeks ago, I participated in the Terry Fox Run. It is an annual 5k/10k run to benefit cancer. Terry Fox was a remarkable athlete who was diagnosed with cancer in his early twenties. The cancer took his right leg. To raise money for cancer, he decided to run across Canada. He said, "Somewhere the hurting must stop....and I was determined to take myself to the limit for this cause." Before the return of the cancer ended his efforts, he had run 3,339 miles, a marathon a day, for 143 days on a prosthetic leg, enduring much pain. His valiant effort received international attention. His legacy continues to inspire others to run to raise funds and awareness to fight cancer.
I didn't feel that motivated to participate in this run, especially being in not the best cardiovascular shape. But then I remembered my neice, Kate, and I realized I needed to run this race! Kate went through a year and a half of cancer treatments, beginning at the age of 2. She has persevered, and the latest scans of the tumor showed no growth! We have been praying for her during our worship services here at Camp Alamo, and know that our prayers have been answered! Kate has shown marvelous perseverance and determination in the face of this difficult trial. We love you, Kate; thanks for inspiring me to run this race!
The Centurion's Servant
Recently I read the following passage in Luke, and a few things struck me.
The Centurion’s Servant in Luke 7:1-10 KJV
1 Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the
people, he entered into Capernaum.
2 And a certain centurion’s servant, who was dear unto him, was sick,
and ready to die.
3 And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the
Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant.
4 And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying,
That he was worthy for whom he should do this:
5 For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.
6 Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the
house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord,
trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter
under my roof:
7 Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but
say in a word, and my servant shall be healed.
8 For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers,
and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he
cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
9 When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him
about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I
have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
10 And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant
whole that had been sick.
This marvelous account of the healing of the centurion’s servant is
less used than the one in Matthew 8. Luke gives us details that enrich
the narrative and deepen the meaning and application for the reader.
First, it is noteworthy that in Luke’s account, the Centurion does not
personally speak to Jesus, but has the “elders of the Jews “ importune
Jesus to heal his servant. When the elders speak to Jesus, they vouch
for the character of the centurion. Apparently, the Centurion is a
model citizen, who even “built [the Jews] a synagogue” (v. 5). Jesus
agrees to come to the man’s house, but when he gets close, he is met
by friends of the centurion. These friends reveal more about the
humble character of the centurion. He did not consider himself worthy
enough to approach the master himself, let alone have Jesus come into
his home. He gave his friends specific instructions in what to tell
Jesus, that Jesus need only speak the word, and his servant would be
healed. He then provided the basis for this expressed faith in the
word of Christ. He, the centurion was a man of authority, in a manner
like Jesus. He could say the word and those under his direction would
carry it out. So Jesus spoke the word and the servant was healed.
He had such faith in Jesus’ authority that he did not feel it was
necessary for Jesus to personally come to his home. Jesus lauded this
man’s faith. This faith calls to mind the words Jesus spoke to Thomas:
“blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed” (John
20:29). In response to Thomas’ doubting, that he would not believe
unless he saw, Jesus offered him physical proof, the wound in his side
and the prints of the nails in his hands and feet. The centurion asked
for no physical proof of Jesus’ ability to heal; he simply had faith,
“nothing wavering” (James 1:6). Keep in mind that the centurion is a
gentile, an outsider, yet he demonstrates greater faith than any in
Israel (Luke 7:9).
In this account in Luke, the centurion’s humility is magnified by his
sending the Jews to deliver his heartfelt request, and his friends to
meet Jesus before he made it to his home. The centurion recognized
that Jesus had authority. He also recognized that Jesus’ authority was
different than his, the centurion’s, earthly authority. It would have
been easy to imagine the centurion becoming filled with pride and
demanding that Jesus come to his home. After all, he was a man of
authority; soldiers and servants answered to him and did his bidding.
Why could he not command this Jesus, who many saw as merely a
traveling preacher without earthly authority, to come and heal his
servant? No, the centurion recognized that his own earthly authority
was nothing compared to the divine authority of Jesus, the Son of God.
Whether or not the centurion realized who Jesus really was is not
clear. We do sense from this account a great reverence for Jesus. The
centurion’s friends relayed his words to Jesus: “I am not worthy that
thou shouldest enter under my roof. Wherefore neither thought I myself
worthy to come unto thee” (Luke 7:6c-7a). The centurion knew that
Jesus was holy, and that he was not worthy to be in his presence.
Do we recognize our own “nothingness before God” (Mosiah 4:11)? King
Benjamin counsels us: “even so I would that ye should remember, and
always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and your own
nothingness, and his goodness and long-suffering towards you, unworthy
creatures, and humble yourselves even in the depths of humility,
calling on the name of the Lord daily, and standing steadfastly in the
faith of that which is to come” (Mosiah 4:11). The centurion models
this kind of humility that we should have before God. In this spirit,
we are more prepared to carry out his will above our own. In this
spirit, we are more prepared to believe what he tells us.
In this account in Luke, we see the act of intercession, an act that
points us toward the intercessory atonement of Jesus Christ. The
centurion interceded for his servant; he sought help on behalf of one
he had authority over. Yet he did not consider himself worthy to
approach the Lord, so the elders of the Jews and his friends
interceded for him. We are not worthy to enter the presence of God, so
Christ intercedes on our behalf. He approaches the throne of God to
vouch for our character and request healing on our behalf. It is not
our works he will vouch for, it is our divine nature as children of
God, and our repentant hearts, purchased by his blood, that he will
present before the perfect, just throne of God.
Notice how even though the centurion did not feel worthy to come to
Jesus, neither to approach him or receive him, Jesus came to him. It
was not likely that Christ came because the centurion built a
synagogue for the Jews. That was the reasoning that the elders gave,
seeking to convince Jesus based on the centurion’s actions. Jesus knew
his heart; he knew the great faith in Christ the centurion possessed.
This may have been the main reason Christ came. Truly, faith precedes
the miracle. Christ loves us not for our actions in and of themselves, but for who, through his atonement, we become in the process of following him.
Our character and identity are truly shaped by how we follow his
commandments. The more we follow him, the more we are conformed to his
image. Our very natures can be changed as we present our bodies a
living sacrifice to him (Romans 12:1).
The Centurion’s Servant in Luke 7:1-10 KJV
1 Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the
people, he entered into Capernaum.
2 And a certain centurion’s servant, who was dear unto him, was sick,
and ready to die.
3 And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the
Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant.
4 And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying,
That he was worthy for whom he should do this:
5 For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.
6 Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the
house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord,
trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter
under my roof:
7 Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but
say in a word, and my servant shall be healed.
8 For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers,
and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he
cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
9 When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him
about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I
have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
10 And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant
whole that had been sick.
This marvelous account of the healing of the centurion’s servant is
less used than the one in Matthew 8. Luke gives us details that enrich
the narrative and deepen the meaning and application for the reader.
First, it is noteworthy that in Luke’s account, the Centurion does not
personally speak to Jesus, but has the “elders of the Jews “ importune
Jesus to heal his servant. When the elders speak to Jesus, they vouch
for the character of the centurion. Apparently, the Centurion is a
model citizen, who even “built [the Jews] a synagogue” (v. 5). Jesus
agrees to come to the man’s house, but when he gets close, he is met
by friends of the centurion. These friends reveal more about the
humble character of the centurion. He did not consider himself worthy
enough to approach the master himself, let alone have Jesus come into
his home. He gave his friends specific instructions in what to tell
Jesus, that Jesus need only speak the word, and his servant would be
healed. He then provided the basis for this expressed faith in the
word of Christ. He, the centurion was a man of authority, in a manner
like Jesus. He could say the word and those under his direction would
carry it out. So Jesus spoke the word and the servant was healed.
He had such faith in Jesus’ authority that he did not feel it was
necessary for Jesus to personally come to his home. Jesus lauded this
man’s faith. This faith calls to mind the words Jesus spoke to Thomas:
“blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed” (John
20:29). In response to Thomas’ doubting, that he would not believe
unless he saw, Jesus offered him physical proof, the wound in his side
and the prints of the nails in his hands and feet. The centurion asked
for no physical proof of Jesus’ ability to heal; he simply had faith,
“nothing wavering” (James 1:6). Keep in mind that the centurion is a
gentile, an outsider, yet he demonstrates greater faith than any in
Israel (Luke 7:9).
In this account in Luke, the centurion’s humility is magnified by his
sending the Jews to deliver his heartfelt request, and his friends to
meet Jesus before he made it to his home. The centurion recognized
that Jesus had authority. He also recognized that Jesus’ authority was
different than his, the centurion’s, earthly authority. It would have
been easy to imagine the centurion becoming filled with pride and
demanding that Jesus come to his home. After all, he was a man of
authority; soldiers and servants answered to him and did his bidding.
Why could he not command this Jesus, who many saw as merely a
traveling preacher without earthly authority, to come and heal his
servant? No, the centurion recognized that his own earthly authority
was nothing compared to the divine authority of Jesus, the Son of God.
Whether or not the centurion realized who Jesus really was is not
clear. We do sense from this account a great reverence for Jesus. The
centurion’s friends relayed his words to Jesus: “I am not worthy that
thou shouldest enter under my roof. Wherefore neither thought I myself
worthy to come unto thee” (Luke 7:6c-7a). The centurion knew that
Jesus was holy, and that he was not worthy to be in his presence.
Do we recognize our own “nothingness before God” (Mosiah 4:11)? King
Benjamin counsels us: “even so I would that ye should remember, and
always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and your own
nothingness, and his goodness and long-suffering towards you, unworthy
creatures, and humble yourselves even in the depths of humility,
calling on the name of the Lord daily, and standing steadfastly in the
faith of that which is to come” (Mosiah 4:11). The centurion models
this kind of humility that we should have before God. In this spirit,
we are more prepared to carry out his will above our own. In this
spirit, we are more prepared to believe what he tells us.
In this account in Luke, we see the act of intercession, an act that
points us toward the intercessory atonement of Jesus Christ. The
centurion interceded for his servant; he sought help on behalf of one
he had authority over. Yet he did not consider himself worthy to
approach the Lord, so the elders of the Jews and his friends
interceded for him. We are not worthy to enter the presence of God, so
Christ intercedes on our behalf. He approaches the throne of God to
vouch for our character and request healing on our behalf. It is not
our works he will vouch for, it is our divine nature as children of
God, and our repentant hearts, purchased by his blood, that he will
present before the perfect, just throne of God.
Notice how even though the centurion did not feel worthy to come to
Jesus, neither to approach him or receive him, Jesus came to him. It
was not likely that Christ came because the centurion built a
synagogue for the Jews. That was the reasoning that the elders gave,
seeking to convince Jesus based on the centurion’s actions. Jesus knew
his heart; he knew the great faith in Christ the centurion possessed.
This may have been the main reason Christ came. Truly, faith precedes
the miracle. Christ loves us not for our actions in and of themselves, but for who, through his atonement, we become in the process of following him.
Our character and identity are truly shaped by how we follow his
commandments. The more we follow him, the more we are conformed to his
image. Our very natures can be changed as we present our bodies a
living sacrifice to him (Romans 12:1).
Sunday, October 9, 2011
I love my wife
Some media people from the army were here to film holiday greetings from the soldiers. They plan to air them on hometown TV stations. I wanted to give a holiday greeting to my wife, Emily. So they put a microphone on me and put me in front of the camera. This should be no problem, I thought; I don't mind speaking in public. It went smoothly, until I got to the part where I was to wish my wife a happy holiday. It took me three tries to get through it, because I started to cry each time. I did get through it, and I know I love my wife! (Not that I doubted that I did, but I didn't realize how close to the surface it was and is.) I love you, Emily!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
I am guilty...
This deployment has afforded me more time to watch BYU football than any year previous. Yes, I am a true blue, died in the wool, born in Provo, BYU football fan. This last game against Utah State was unreal; the Cougars won it on a tipped touchdown pass with 11 seconds left in the game. Of course, with the time difference, I had to wake up at 4:15am to catch the game. It was a Friday night game, so I watched it Saturday morning. The fact that it is on Friday is in deference to the LDS fan base of both teams, being General Conference weekend.
Wouldn't you know it; the Priesthood session was this morning at 4:30am, the same time as the football game a day earlier. Did I show the same enthusiasm I did for football and wake up at the early hour? Is not the priesthood session more important than football? Hmmmmm.....looks like I need to reevaluate my priorities, especially in light of one of the talks I heard. Thankfully, because of technology, I can still watch the recording of the priesthood session on my computer. Technology is such a blessing but it is still no excuse to put football in front of vital spiritual counsel! I have watched both Saturday sessions and there were many great talks.
Elder Ian S. Ardern spoke on spending our time wisely. He said that misusing time was akin to idleness. I was very convicted during this talk. It's one thing to watch a game a week, but it's another to waste hours each week reading about stuff surrounding it, when I could be doing more important things. I am going to make a change, and since I am posting it on this blog, now I am accountable. I am going to limit my time reading about sports to 10 minutes per day, with the goal to reduce it to 5 minutes per day after 2 weeks.
There are so many worthwhile things I could be doing instead. I keep thinking of the quote (paraphrased): "If you do not first choose the kingdom of heaven, it will make no difference in the end, what you have chosen."
Wouldn't you know it; the Priesthood session was this morning at 4:30am, the same time as the football game a day earlier. Did I show the same enthusiasm I did for football and wake up at the early hour? Is not the priesthood session more important than football? Hmmmmm.....looks like I need to reevaluate my priorities, especially in light of one of the talks I heard. Thankfully, because of technology, I can still watch the recording of the priesthood session on my computer. Technology is such a blessing but it is still no excuse to put football in front of vital spiritual counsel! I have watched both Saturday sessions and there were many great talks.
Elder Ian S. Ardern spoke on spending our time wisely. He said that misusing time was akin to idleness. I was very convicted during this talk. It's one thing to watch a game a week, but it's another to waste hours each week reading about stuff surrounding it, when I could be doing more important things. I am going to make a change, and since I am posting it on this blog, now I am accountable. I am going to limit my time reading about sports to 10 minutes per day, with the goal to reduce it to 5 minutes per day after 2 weeks.
There are so many worthwhile things I could be doing instead. I keep thinking of the quote (paraphrased): "If you do not first choose the kingdom of heaven, it will make no difference in the end, what you have chosen."
Sunday, September 25, 2011
thoughts in the wee hours of the morning
Light
While I was leaving the latrine, I looked up at the 0300 sky.
Blackness. “Are there no stars tonight,” I thought to myself? Then I
saw one, which drew me to look for others, which I saw. Gradually, as
I moved farther away from the porch light of the latrine, I saw more.
I had to move away from the man-made light in order to view the
heavenly lights. It led me to ponder on the spiritual significance of
this small illustration. First, there was a desire to see the lights
in the heavens. This necessitated a move away from earthly light, in
order to see the lights in the heavens. Our vision of heaven can
become obscured when we are surrounded by earthly light. We must step
out into the darkness to behold the marvelous lights in the firmament,
the glorious lights of God. We will never behold his light by using
light made by our own hands; we must trust him completely if we are to
see his glory. Think about it. Who can take the most powerful man-made
light in the world and shining it toward heaven see even one heavenly
body by its beam? What we see comes entirely from him; our only part
is to turn our gaze to the heavens to behold it.
This differs from the way we see with man-made light. We cast light on
things and are thus able to see them. The lights in the heavens
emanate the light by which they are seen, requiring no aid from us to
be revealed. They only require us to turn our gaze to them.
While reading, “Rough Stone Rolling,” a biography on Joseph Smith,
this morning, a few thoughts came to me. I read part of Bushman’s
recounting of the King Follett discourse by Joseph Smith. I was struck
by the bold doctrine that Joseph proclaimed in this sermon. He defied
earth and hell to disprove what he said. God was once a man, as we are
now, as evidenced by the fact that Christ did nothing but what his
father did. Many did not receive of Christ’s doctrine when he came
because it was from heaven, and did not involve earthly wisdom. Christ
brought additional light and knowledge. Joseph Smith was given the
task of revealing the order of heaven, of being a conduit of
additional light and knowledge, and he was reviled and murdered as a
result. Those who seek to understand spiritual things in carnal terms
will be forever frustrated in the attempt. Paul stated this plainly in
1 Corinthians 2:4-16.
"And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s
wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your
faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the
wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to
nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden
wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none
of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would
not have crucified the Lord of glory (1 Cor 2:4-8).
Those who reject God’s wisdom and knowledge are looking for earthly
things. God does not speak by man’s wisdom, as Paul states above.
Christ, the literal Son of God brought light into the world, but not
everyone would accept it. Religious leaders questioned his authority
and his educational background. “By what authority doest thou these
things? and who gave thee this authority to do these things?” (Mark
11:28). When he taught in the temple, the Jews wondered, “How knoweth
this man letters, having never learned?” (John 7:15). They were blind
to both his divinity and the divine instruction he had received,
because it fell outside the parameters of their institutions. “Jesus
answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent
me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine,
whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh
of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that
sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him” (John
7:16-18). Jesus’ light and knowledge came from a divine source, not
from the wisdom of men. This is yet hard for some to accept. “And this
is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved
darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every
one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light,
lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to
the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought
in God” (John 3:19-21).
I pray that each of us will trust God and receive the light from
heaven given by direct revelation, spoken by prophets on the earth
today, and confirmed to us by the power of the Holy Ghost. May we so
live that we will desire to come to the glorious light of God, that
through our acceptance of the atonement of Jesus Christ, sin will not
stand in our way and our deeds will be “wrought in God.” In the name
of Jesus Christ, amen.
While I was leaving the latrine, I looked up at the 0300 sky.
Blackness. “Are there no stars tonight,” I thought to myself? Then I
saw one, which drew me to look for others, which I saw. Gradually, as
I moved farther away from the porch light of the latrine, I saw more.
I had to move away from the man-made light in order to view the
heavenly lights. It led me to ponder on the spiritual significance of
this small illustration. First, there was a desire to see the lights
in the heavens. This necessitated a move away from earthly light, in
order to see the lights in the heavens. Our vision of heaven can
become obscured when we are surrounded by earthly light. We must step
out into the darkness to behold the marvelous lights in the firmament,
the glorious lights of God. We will never behold his light by using
light made by our own hands; we must trust him completely if we are to
see his glory. Think about it. Who can take the most powerful man-made
light in the world and shining it toward heaven see even one heavenly
body by its beam? What we see comes entirely from him; our only part
is to turn our gaze to the heavens to behold it.
This differs from the way we see with man-made light. We cast light on
things and are thus able to see them. The lights in the heavens
emanate the light by which they are seen, requiring no aid from us to
be revealed. They only require us to turn our gaze to them.
While reading, “Rough Stone Rolling,” a biography on Joseph Smith,
this morning, a few thoughts came to me. I read part of Bushman’s
recounting of the King Follett discourse by Joseph Smith. I was struck
by the bold doctrine that Joseph proclaimed in this sermon. He defied
earth and hell to disprove what he said. God was once a man, as we are
now, as evidenced by the fact that Christ did nothing but what his
father did. Many did not receive of Christ’s doctrine when he came
because it was from heaven, and did not involve earthly wisdom. Christ
brought additional light and knowledge. Joseph Smith was given the
task of revealing the order of heaven, of being a conduit of
additional light and knowledge, and he was reviled and murdered as a
result. Those who seek to understand spiritual things in carnal terms
will be forever frustrated in the attempt. Paul stated this plainly in
1 Corinthians 2:4-16.
"And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s
wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your
faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the
wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to
nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden
wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none
of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would
not have crucified the Lord of glory (1 Cor 2:4-8).
Those who reject God’s wisdom and knowledge are looking for earthly
things. God does not speak by man’s wisdom, as Paul states above.
Christ, the literal Son of God brought light into the world, but not
everyone would accept it. Religious leaders questioned his authority
and his educational background. “By what authority doest thou these
things? and who gave thee this authority to do these things?” (Mark
11:28). When he taught in the temple, the Jews wondered, “How knoweth
this man letters, having never learned?” (John 7:15). They were blind
to both his divinity and the divine instruction he had received,
because it fell outside the parameters of their institutions. “Jesus
answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent
me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine,
whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh
of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that
sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him” (John
7:16-18). Jesus’ light and knowledge came from a divine source, not
from the wisdom of men. This is yet hard for some to accept. “And this
is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved
darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every
one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light,
lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to
the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought
in God” (John 3:19-21).
I pray that each of us will trust God and receive the light from
heaven given by direct revelation, spoken by prophets on the earth
today, and confirmed to us by the power of the Holy Ghost. May we so
live that we will desire to come to the glorious light of God, that
through our acceptance of the atonement of Jesus Christ, sin will not
stand in our way and our deeds will be “wrought in God.” In the name
of Jesus Christ, amen.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
brief thoughts from the week
More challenges came from my friend, who insists The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is not Christian. He still sees the church as teaching that people can "earn" their way to heaven.
This could not be further from the truth. Without the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, obedience yields nothing!
Yet, a thought came to me today. If Jesus endured the torturous ordeal of Gethsemane through Golgotha, more than man could suffer, could we not accept of this wonderful, merciful atonement by simply obeying his commandments? The scales of judgment are thus eternally tipped in our favor. He has done for us what we could not do for ourselves: make a way to overcome sin and death. King Benjamin explains this uneven arrangement in his speech in the first few chapters of Mosiah, saying that every time we obey God, he rewards us so abundantly that we are eternally indebted to him. Jesus proclaimed that he came "not to destroy, but to fulfill." He came to do what had been prophesied and looked to for centuries, for millenia. He came to cleanse us from all iniquity. This would require active faith on our part. In Leviticus, where Christ's atonement was foreshadowed in animal sacrifice, the children of Israel were required to do certain things to receive forgiveness for their sins. If a person touched or ate an animal that died on its own, that person was unclean. Yet, if he washed himself and his clothes, he would become clean by evening. "But if he wash them not, nor bathe his flesh; then he shall bear his iniquity" (Levitcus 17:16). Without physically going through this physical washing, the person would remain unclean.
Though Christ had no need of baptism, "he showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments" (2 Nephi 31:4-7). Christ was without spot, and therefore had no sin that needed to be washed away. Nevertheless, he was baptized to show us that being obedient to God was paramount. After Christ's atonement, sacrifice by the shedding of blood ended. We are now commanded to bring forth the sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit, to receive of the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. "Behold, he offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit; and unto none else can the ends of the law be answered" (2 Nephi 2:7). If we only seek our own will, is our heart really broken and our spirit truly contrite?
Submission to God does not "earn" us a spot in heaven, it simply opens our hearts to receive the grace and mercy he has so benevolently bestowed upon us by the merits of his son. Except for this magnificent atonement, we could not repent and turn to God, we would be lost forever. When we obey the commandment to lose our lives for Christ's sake, we will find ourselves with God in the end.
This could not be further from the truth. Without the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, obedience yields nothing!
Yet, a thought came to me today. If Jesus endured the torturous ordeal of Gethsemane through Golgotha, more than man could suffer, could we not accept of this wonderful, merciful atonement by simply obeying his commandments? The scales of judgment are thus eternally tipped in our favor. He has done for us what we could not do for ourselves: make a way to overcome sin and death. King Benjamin explains this uneven arrangement in his speech in the first few chapters of Mosiah, saying that every time we obey God, he rewards us so abundantly that we are eternally indebted to him. Jesus proclaimed that he came "not to destroy, but to fulfill." He came to do what had been prophesied and looked to for centuries, for millenia. He came to cleanse us from all iniquity. This would require active faith on our part. In Leviticus, where Christ's atonement was foreshadowed in animal sacrifice, the children of Israel were required to do certain things to receive forgiveness for their sins. If a person touched or ate an animal that died on its own, that person was unclean. Yet, if he washed himself and his clothes, he would become clean by evening. "But if he wash them not, nor bathe his flesh; then he shall bear his iniquity" (Levitcus 17:16). Without physically going through this physical washing, the person would remain unclean.
Though Christ had no need of baptism, "he showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments" (2 Nephi 31:4-7). Christ was without spot, and therefore had no sin that needed to be washed away. Nevertheless, he was baptized to show us that being obedient to God was paramount. After Christ's atonement, sacrifice by the shedding of blood ended. We are now commanded to bring forth the sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit, to receive of the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. "Behold, he offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit; and unto none else can the ends of the law be answered" (2 Nephi 2:7). If we only seek our own will, is our heart really broken and our spirit truly contrite?
Submission to God does not "earn" us a spot in heaven, it simply opens our hearts to receive the grace and mercy he has so benevolently bestowed upon us by the merits of his son. Except for this magnificent atonement, we could not repent and turn to God, we would be lost forever. When we obey the commandment to lose our lives for Christ's sake, we will find ourselves with God in the end.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
response to Todd's comments on the posting below
Todd,
You make a very good point. This is something that my friend struggles with--stepping out of his paradigm to attempt to understand another's. I am amazed at how people will not acknowledge that there are different ways to read the Bible, a fact that Joseph Smith pointed out very succinctly in his history. Why are there so many different denominations(and denominations within denominations) that all profess a belief in the same book? I don't want to spend time pointing out contradictions in the Bible; I think it is actually fairly succinct. If take this avenue, then people feel like we devalue the Bible. My friend says that our church views the Bible as "flawed." I love the Bible, and am grateful that we have this miraculous record.
I tried to explain Joseph Smith's inspired revisions in this way: If I tell something to Bill, you could either ask Bill what I said or ask me directly what I told Bill. God told Joseph Smith the real intent of certain Biblical verses. God confirms the truth to us, concerning what he has revealed to Joseph Smith. This is our ultimate source of truth; we do not have to be limited to physical signs of truth, in line with what Jesus told Thomas.
In the end; my only desire is that people respect what we believe, and only declare what they believe to be true, without feeling a need to tear down the faith of others. If what you belive is true, you only need declare it--others will be drawn to it. Thanks again for your comment, Todd. Hope you and your family are well.
You make a very good point. This is something that my friend struggles with--stepping out of his paradigm to attempt to understand another's. I am amazed at how people will not acknowledge that there are different ways to read the Bible, a fact that Joseph Smith pointed out very succinctly in his history. Why are there so many different denominations(and denominations within denominations) that all profess a belief in the same book? I don't want to spend time pointing out contradictions in the Bible; I think it is actually fairly succinct. If take this avenue, then people feel like we devalue the Bible. My friend says that our church views the Bible as "flawed." I love the Bible, and am grateful that we have this miraculous record.
I tried to explain Joseph Smith's inspired revisions in this way: If I tell something to Bill, you could either ask Bill what I said or ask me directly what I told Bill. God told Joseph Smith the real intent of certain Biblical verses. God confirms the truth to us, concerning what he has revealed to Joseph Smith. This is our ultimate source of truth; we do not have to be limited to physical signs of truth, in line with what Jesus told Thomas.
In the end; my only desire is that people respect what we believe, and only declare what they believe to be true, without feeling a need to tear down the faith of others. If what you belive is true, you only need declare it--others will be drawn to it. Thanks again for your comment, Todd. Hope you and your family are well.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
interfaith dialogue
Today, I was told that the church and faith that I hold to be true are of the deceptions of the devil, "counterfeit Christianity." Needless to say I was a bit taken aback. The person telling me this did so out of sincerity. I have seen his Christian walk, and how he has looks out for me, and even prays for me. So I know that he does not make this accusation as a personal attack against me. He said that what he has heard me say fills in the gaps where my church is wrong. That makes me think: have I said something that is out of line with the doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints? I desire to tell him that, to my knowledge, I have said nothing that has been out of line with my faith.
Leading up to this exchange, we have had dialogue on where he has concerns with LDS doctrine, the authenticity of the Book of Mormon--which he says contradicts what is in the Bible. In good faith, as he has expressed desires to learn more about my faith, I have cited many scriptures, but to no avail. We come from two different paradigms. He insists that I am misled, that the historical and contextual evidence does not support what Joseph Smith claimed, that they are out of alignment with what is in the Bible.
I have pondered on this thought: could the Book of Mormon be misinterpreted as the Bible has? I think it would be difficult--hence its coming forth in our day--but still possible. Consider the concept of the Godhead, the Trinity. This one I think could definitely be misunderstood in a way that aligns with a 4th Century conception of the Trinity (Council of Nicea), one that declares that Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are physically the same being. Nephi states that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are "one God without end" (2 Nephi 31:21). Mormon refers to the trinity in similar terms, "the Father, ... the Son, and... the Holy Ghost, which are one God...(Mormon 7:7). Jesus declares in 2 Nephi 28:10, "the Father and I are one." This echoes what is recorded in the Bible: "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord," (Deut 6:4), and "God is one"(Gal 3:20).
God be thanked that he has given us prophets in our day. Doctrine and Covenants 130:22 boldly declares: "The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us."
With this light and knowledge, we understand more clearly the nature and character of God revealed through the scriptures. God validates his holy Son, speaking from the heavens at his baptism and at his transfiguration. Jesus prays to his father and teaches people to pray to his Father. He does his Father's will "in all things from the beginning" (3 Nephi 11:11). With the revelation given to Joseph Smith everything aligns. Mosiah 15:1-9 contains a masterful explanation of the Godhead. I include it here. Abinadi is preaching to false priests and a king who will later burn him at the stake for testifying of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. Yet, he is first permitted to declare the truth unto them.
1 And now Abinadi said unto them: I would that ye should understand that God himself shall come down among the children of men, and shall redeem his people.
2 And because he dwelleth in flesh he shall be called the Son of God, and having subjected the flesh to the will of the Father, being the Father and the Son—
3 The Father, because he was conceived by the power of God; and the Son, because of the flesh; thus becoming the Father and Son—
4 And they are one God, yea, the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth.
5 And thus the flesh becoming subject to the Spirit, or the Son to the Father, being one God, suffereth temptation, and yieldeth not to the temptation, but suffereth himself to be mocked, and scourged, and cast out, and disowned by his people.
6 And after all this, after working many mighty miracles among the children of men, he shall be led, yea, even as Isaiah said, as a sheep before the shearer is dumb, so he opened not his mouth.
7 Yea, even so he shall be led, crucified, and slain, the flesh becoming subject even unto death, the will of the Son being swallowed up in the will of the Father.
8 And thus God breaketh the bands of death, having gained the victory over death; giving the Son power to make intercession for the children of men—
9 Having ascended into heaven, having the bowels of mercy; being filled with compassion towards the children of men; standing betwixt them and justice; having broken the bands of death, taken upon himself their iniquity and their transgressions, having redeemed them, and satisfied the demands of justice.
In the end, when people challenge our faith, we must remain firm and stead fast, yet respond with charity. Any challenge to our faith holds up by simply studying the words that God has given us. We will come across seeming contradictions, yes. Yet we must remember 2 things. These apparent contradictions (usually revealed by trying to fit God into our limited, mortal paradigm) will not outweigh core doctrines that are found in no other church (modern day revelation (actual scripture), eternal nature of family, redemptive ordinances for the dead--all of which center on the atonement of Jesus Christ). This first fact sustains us as we, over time, gain an enlightened understanding that clears up the contradiction.
If the contradiction, to our mere mortal understanding, remains, we declare with Mormon: "And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will" (Words of Mormon 1:7). We also echo Nephi's sentiment. In a vision where he was asked about the meaning of the condescension of God, he remarked, "I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things" (2 Nephi 11:17). Isaiah said it best: "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Humbly, we plant the seed of faith in our hearts, as Alma admonished us to do in Alma 32. Then, we water in and nourish it, and see the fruit of these efforts. We feel the Holy Ghost bear witness to the truth that we have planted in faith, and we see how it blesses our lives as we draw closer to Christ.
When others seek to tear down the faith that we hold to be true, we can only respond out of love. We must remember that Christ died being told that he was a counterfeit messiah (a counterfeit Christian?). He was marginalized and crucified in place of a treasonous criminal. He was beaten, spat upon, mocked, and martyred; all because he said that he was the Son of God, and "went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him" (Acts 10:38). His triumph was not found in debate, in proving others wrong (though he did so masterfully); his triumph was in complete submission to the will of his Father, in the which he wrought salvation for all who would repent and follow him. This he did in suffering and death, to atone for the sins of all humanity.
When others seek to undermine what we believe, we must remember that Christ bore all accusations (lawbreaking, treason, blasphemy), and at times not opening his mouth. He set the standard when he said of his executioners, under excruciating pain on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:24). The climax of the beatitudes says: "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" (Matt 5:44). We should thank God for opportunities as these, to become more like his Son has invited us to be. The verses that follow are instructive:
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
I do not feel perfect love for the person that even said to me today: "Have you thought about why the Mormons were kicked out of the country?" Wow. It would be easy to take offense at this. I am still angered by it. This person has no idea what the early saints and pioneers went through because of their faith, being burned out of house and home, evicted in the dead of winter, being driven from place to place, suffering brutal mob attacks and an extermination order. The only solace they found was in a barren desert in the mountains of the west.
This is a challenge indeed, to treat with kindness someone who has been very insensitive in seeking to tear down my faith. In closing, please pray for me, that I will remember:
46 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail—
47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.
48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen (Moroni 7:46-48).
Leading up to this exchange, we have had dialogue on where he has concerns with LDS doctrine, the authenticity of the Book of Mormon--which he says contradicts what is in the Bible. In good faith, as he has expressed desires to learn more about my faith, I have cited many scriptures, but to no avail. We come from two different paradigms. He insists that I am misled, that the historical and contextual evidence does not support what Joseph Smith claimed, that they are out of alignment with what is in the Bible.
I have pondered on this thought: could the Book of Mormon be misinterpreted as the Bible has? I think it would be difficult--hence its coming forth in our day--but still possible. Consider the concept of the Godhead, the Trinity. This one I think could definitely be misunderstood in a way that aligns with a 4th Century conception of the Trinity (Council of Nicea), one that declares that Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are physically the same being. Nephi states that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are "one God without end" (2 Nephi 31:21). Mormon refers to the trinity in similar terms, "the Father, ... the Son, and... the Holy Ghost, which are one God...(Mormon 7:7). Jesus declares in 2 Nephi 28:10, "the Father and I are one." This echoes what is recorded in the Bible: "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord," (Deut 6:4), and "God is one"(Gal 3:20).
God be thanked that he has given us prophets in our day. Doctrine and Covenants 130:22 boldly declares: "The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us."
With this light and knowledge, we understand more clearly the nature and character of God revealed through the scriptures. God validates his holy Son, speaking from the heavens at his baptism and at his transfiguration. Jesus prays to his father and teaches people to pray to his Father. He does his Father's will "in all things from the beginning" (3 Nephi 11:11). With the revelation given to Joseph Smith everything aligns. Mosiah 15:1-9 contains a masterful explanation of the Godhead. I include it here. Abinadi is preaching to false priests and a king who will later burn him at the stake for testifying of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. Yet, he is first permitted to declare the truth unto them.
1 And now Abinadi said unto them: I would that ye should understand that God himself shall come down among the children of men, and shall redeem his people.
2 And because he dwelleth in flesh he shall be called the Son of God, and having subjected the flesh to the will of the Father, being the Father and the Son—
3 The Father, because he was conceived by the power of God; and the Son, because of the flesh; thus becoming the Father and Son—
4 And they are one God, yea, the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth.
5 And thus the flesh becoming subject to the Spirit, or the Son to the Father, being one God, suffereth temptation, and yieldeth not to the temptation, but suffereth himself to be mocked, and scourged, and cast out, and disowned by his people.
6 And after all this, after working many mighty miracles among the children of men, he shall be led, yea, even as Isaiah said, as a sheep before the shearer is dumb, so he opened not his mouth.
7 Yea, even so he shall be led, crucified, and slain, the flesh becoming subject even unto death, the will of the Son being swallowed up in the will of the Father.
8 And thus God breaketh the bands of death, having gained the victory over death; giving the Son power to make intercession for the children of men—
9 Having ascended into heaven, having the bowels of mercy; being filled with compassion towards the children of men; standing betwixt them and justice; having broken the bands of death, taken upon himself their iniquity and their transgressions, having redeemed them, and satisfied the demands of justice.
In the end, when people challenge our faith, we must remain firm and stead fast, yet respond with charity. Any challenge to our faith holds up by simply studying the words that God has given us. We will come across seeming contradictions, yes. Yet we must remember 2 things. These apparent contradictions (usually revealed by trying to fit God into our limited, mortal paradigm) will not outweigh core doctrines that are found in no other church (modern day revelation (actual scripture), eternal nature of family, redemptive ordinances for the dead--all of which center on the atonement of Jesus Christ). This first fact sustains us as we, over time, gain an enlightened understanding that clears up the contradiction.
If the contradiction, to our mere mortal understanding, remains, we declare with Mormon: "And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will" (Words of Mormon 1:7). We also echo Nephi's sentiment. In a vision where he was asked about the meaning of the condescension of God, he remarked, "I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things" (2 Nephi 11:17). Isaiah said it best: "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Humbly, we plant the seed of faith in our hearts, as Alma admonished us to do in Alma 32. Then, we water in and nourish it, and see the fruit of these efforts. We feel the Holy Ghost bear witness to the truth that we have planted in faith, and we see how it blesses our lives as we draw closer to Christ.
When others seek to tear down the faith that we hold to be true, we can only respond out of love. We must remember that Christ died being told that he was a counterfeit messiah (a counterfeit Christian?). He was marginalized and crucified in place of a treasonous criminal. He was beaten, spat upon, mocked, and martyred; all because he said that he was the Son of God, and "went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him" (Acts 10:38). His triumph was not found in debate, in proving others wrong (though he did so masterfully); his triumph was in complete submission to the will of his Father, in the which he wrought salvation for all who would repent and follow him. This he did in suffering and death, to atone for the sins of all humanity.
When others seek to undermine what we believe, we must remember that Christ bore all accusations (lawbreaking, treason, blasphemy), and at times not opening his mouth. He set the standard when he said of his executioners, under excruciating pain on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:24). The climax of the beatitudes says: "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" (Matt 5:44). We should thank God for opportunities as these, to become more like his Son has invited us to be. The verses that follow are instructive:
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
I do not feel perfect love for the person that even said to me today: "Have you thought about why the Mormons were kicked out of the country?" Wow. It would be easy to take offense at this. I am still angered by it. This person has no idea what the early saints and pioneers went through because of their faith, being burned out of house and home, evicted in the dead of winter, being driven from place to place, suffering brutal mob attacks and an extermination order. The only solace they found was in a barren desert in the mountains of the west.
This is a challenge indeed, to treat with kindness someone who has been very insensitive in seeking to tear down my faith. In closing, please pray for me, that I will remember:
46 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail—
47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.
48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen (Moroni 7:46-48).
Sunday, August 7, 2011
A good meeting
SSG Morales gave the message during our meeting today. He talked about faith, and his own faith journey. He quoted his father, who was quoting someone else: “It is a lot easier to deny the unknown than to recognize our ignorance.” He quoted Joseph Smith, who said, “Faith is the principle of action and power.” SSG Morales, an avid gym-rat, said, “faith is like a muscle; [it gets stronger when we exercise it].” He quoted Richard G. Scott: “Faith and character are intimately related….One serious act of disobedience breaks trust and undermines our character.”
A few scriptures quoted by SSG Morales:
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Alma 32:21 And now as I said concerning faith—faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true.
Ether 12:6 And now, I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.
After SSG Morales’ message, Roger, then I, bore testimonies. Though there were only 5 of us in attendance, the Spirit was very present during the meeting; we all felt the love of God, and of each other. We all expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet together in remembrance of the atonement of Jesus Christ, to give thanks to God for the gift of his Son.
I remember thinking how glad I was that we get to hear from members of the congregation during our church meetings. These are opportunities for members to express their faith in a very personal way, for the benefit of all, as all come from different walks of life. God speaks through all of us, if we will yield to the promptings of the Holy Ghost. I was glad SSG Morales shared his inspired message; we never know how long each of us gets to stay put. Our Alamo support chaplain just got transferred to another base.
Glad to be here at Alamo; life is good. Have a blessed Sunday, a wonderful day of rest.
Camp Alamo
Chaplains!
Sign on the Troop Medical Clinic
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Last day of July
View from my front door (check out that sky, Loren!).
Climb up the Ghar
Back side of the mountain we climbed
The trail up
Home sweet home (first on the right)
RCA Officer computer basics class
Hope those few pictures gives you a better idea of what it is like here. I am enjoying the work with my Afghan counterparts; they have been very friendly and gracious. The month of Ramadan (fasting during daylight hours) begins tomorrow. I will need to remember not to bring a bottle of water to the schoolhouse!
I continue to enjoy facilitating LDS services each week, and studying the scriptures in hopes of gaining a deeper appreciation for God's plan for us. And I am grateful that God has watched over Emily and Josiah during their move to Minnesota.
Climb up the Ghar
Back side of the mountain we climbed
The trail up
Home sweet home (first on the right)
RCA Officer computer basics class
Hope those few pictures gives you a better idea of what it is like here. I am enjoying the work with my Afghan counterparts; they have been very friendly and gracious. The month of Ramadan (fasting during daylight hours) begins tomorrow. I will need to remember not to bring a bottle of water to the schoolhouse!
I continue to enjoy facilitating LDS services each week, and studying the scriptures in hopes of gaining a deeper appreciation for God's plan for us. And I am grateful that God has watched over Emily and Josiah during their move to Minnesota.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Pioneer Day post
Above: Where we hold sacrament meeting. We average about 4 in attendance.
Happy Pioneer Day! I owe a great debt to those hearty pioneers who kept the fires of faith burning in spite of persecution and hardship.
Lately, I have gotten into many theological discussions. These have prompted me to dig deeper into what I believe, strengthening my testimony of the truth.
Krister Stendahl, former dean of the Harvard Divinity School, gave 3 rules for interfaith dialogue:
1. If you want to know about another faith, go to the source; ask people from that faith tradition. If you ask critics, they may be guilty of breaking the commandment to not bear false witness.
2. Compare your best with their best. Avoid making a caricature of another faith by comparing your best with their worst.
3. Leave room for holy envy. Stendahl said he could envision himself doing work for the dead, that it was a beautiful thing to extend the blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ to those that have passed before us.
I enjoy interfaith dialogue; it helps me understand where others are coming from. Not everyone is interested in it, but there are enough who are, who are willing to discover commonalities and recognize the work that needs to be done in this world. Interfaith efforts are vital for progress.
A question was asked: Why did Joseph Smith say that "a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its (The Book of Mormon's) precepts, than by any other book." I read a great talk by President Ezra Taft Benson from 1986. He noted that we gain a better understanding of the atonement of Jesus Christ by reading The Book of Mormon, as well as a deeper understanding of the resurrection. He also said how the truths come to us undiluted because of the divine method of its translation, directly to English. I am grateful for the whole of scripture. As God is the fountain of all truth and knowledge, why would he not have more to say to those who are willing to receive it?
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Today's sacrament meeting
We had 5 in attendance today. That may not seem like a lot, but it's a good crowd for us! We would have had others, but their work assignments would not allow it. After the sacrament portion of the meeting, we discussed Matthew chapters 6 and 7, on what it means to serve and put the things of God first. Everyone participated and the Spirit was with our discussion; it was wonderful to feel that comforting, heavenly influence. God loves soldiers; I can testify to that. My preparation for lesson was not what it could/should have been, but we still had the spirit with us.
Sometimes I forget that having LDS chaplains in the Army is important. I am not the leader of the LDS congregation (servicemen's group) here at Camp Alamo; I am here to support it. Yet, church services would still roll on if I was not here. So, sometimes I wonder if there is much need for LDS chaplains. In the closing prayer, one soldier expressed his gratitude that they had an LDS chaplain here. I forget that it really does matter. Even though there are not as many LDS soldiers as there are some other denominations; it still matters to the ones who are LDS. We had a great meeting today, and we all felt strenghthened by it. One of the scriptures we read today was Matthew 6:24, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
Sometimes I forget that having LDS chaplains in the Army is important. I am not the leader of the LDS congregation (servicemen's group) here at Camp Alamo; I am here to support it. Yet, church services would still roll on if I was not here. So, sometimes I wonder if there is much need for LDS chaplains. In the closing prayer, one soldier expressed his gratitude that they had an LDS chaplain here. I forget that it really does matter. Even though there are not as many LDS soldiers as there are some other denominations; it still matters to the ones who are LDS. We had a great meeting today, and we all felt strenghthened by it. One of the scriptures we read today was Matthew 6:24, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Camp Alamo service
Greetings from Camp Alamo! Sorry there is no picture; I will post one in a bit. Beautiful weather here; and we even had some rain to cool things down yesterday. Had LDS sacrament meeting this morning; had two soldiers attend. It was great and the Spirit was there! We talked about President Eyering's message from the Ensign magazine on tithing. It is a preparatory law that prepares us to one day live the law of consecration. We looked at Genesis 14:18-20, where Abram paid tithes to Melchizedek. We also looked at Acts 4:32-35, where the church that Christ established had all things in common, so that they were all of one heart and there was no poor among them. This reminds us of the scripture in the Pearl of Great Price, that describes the city of Enoch: "And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness, and there was no poor among them" (Moses 7:18).
Friday, May 27, 2011
In Kyrgyzstan
Greetings from Kyrgyzstan! We flew from Fort Dix to Leipzig, then to Manas, Kyrgyzstan (official language is Kyrgyz). The time difference from the Mountain Time Zone is exactly 12 hours, so when I call to talk to Emily, it is just an AM/PM switch. Haven't had much sleep lately, trying to adjust. A couple of days went by where I did not get to talk to Emily. This had me feeling a bit out of sorts. It wasn't until a kind soldier talked about playing basketball when we get to Afghanistan that I think I cracked my first full smile. Then connecting with Emily really helped; having family back home sure makes a difference. Hope you are all well.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
This blog...
I have changed the title of this blog not to be exclusionary, but to be clear. I want this to be a place where I can share my thoughts in an honest way that represents my faith. Comments and insights are welcome, but know that this is not a forum to challenge my faith. This blog is primarily a means for me to share what's going on in my head during this mobilization.
Thoughts from the Book of Mormon
I read most of 2 Nephi 3 today, and was amazed at the perspective given to Joseph (who was sold into Egypt). He knew of Moses, who would be an instrument in God’s hand to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Egyptians, and deliver unto them God’s law. Yet he also knew of Joseph Smith, the latter-day seer, who would deliver the words of the Book of Mormon to those of Joseph’s seed to bring them to repentance and salvation in Christ. The Spirit got me thinking: Moses brought Israel forward to Christ; Joseph Smith brought people back to Christ, through the covenant that was restored. Christ is the apex, the pinnacle to which everything points. Joseph of the Old Testament certainly received a grand vision of God’s working among his people. I love how the Book of Mormon emphasizes Moses and Joseph’s instrumental roles; they were acting on behalf of Christ. It was not Moses’ law or Joseph’s words; they were God’s! Truly the words of Christ are verified: “…I am the vine, ye are the branches…without me ye can do nothing” (John 15:5, KJV).
This is why it is so important for us to humble ourselves before God. If we hope to accomplish anything, it will be according to his will and for his glory. His glory is greater than anything on this earth, and always involves what is best for us. What could be better than his will for us? He knows us better than we know ourselves; eternity is before him. Yes, it takes faith, but if we trust him implicitly he will bring us greater happiness and joy than we ever thought possible!
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Training at Fort Dix
Arrived at Fort Dix in March. Some of the training I have received: driving the MATV (pictured above), combat lifesaver, Afghan culture including the Dari language, and some basic combatives and survivability moves. We spent this past week in the field, and the weather was beautiful--70's and sunny during the day, and 50's at night. I slept underneath a tent window, enjoying the refreshing cool breeze.
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