LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Faithfulness wears many faces – it is not given for us to judge – which of these faces is true – or – which is false!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It always seems a much easier task – when a neighbor is being counseled to conquer a fear – than when we are trying to conquer our own!!

MISSIONS OF LIFE

It was several weeks earlier than when I actually sat down to write this Thought, that I started thinking about what the Thought would be about. What started me thinking was a conversation Kathleen and I had had about her feeling that life is made up of a series of different missions.

During these weeks of pondering I come to the conclusion that some times these mission follow quickly upon one another, sometimes we even find ourselves involved in more than one mission at a time and there may be times when we aren’t sure
what mission we are currently called upon.

A brief and very incomplete review of what I perceive to be the missions Kathleen has served and continues to serve would include:

Born into the mission of being nurtured through the learning of the fundamental movements and skills necessary for the daily activities and adaptations of life.

Assigned to the mission of sitting with teachers and mentors in man made classrooms and in God created nature to learn and practice the skills needed to maintain and advance herself in society.

Given the blessed mission of bearing, birthing and nurturing heaven lent children of Heavenly Parents through the process of maturation. She even took on the additional role of fulfilling this mission for some who were absent during the day because they were serving in conflicting missions.

Called on missions to bring order to offices she managed in the educational, dental and legal professions. She even served an overtime mission bringing order to the office of a trucking company.

She was called to serve in a variety of zones in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She served in the Primary zone as president and teacher, she served in the Sunday School zone as a teacher, she served in the Relief society zone as teacher and music director…

She served as a full time leader and missionary in the Colombia Bogota North Mission with her husband.
She currently serves a mission as a full time caregiver.

I am positive that my beloved could add a great many missions to this list, but I feel a need to divert from that path and call our attention to the thought, that as important as it is to fulfill the missions we are called to serve during life to the best of our abilities, even more important is what we should be learning from those missions and how humbly and graciously we accept releases from those missions.

Once again my efforts will be found lacking, but I have observed that Kathleen has learned many marvelous things while serving on the missions of her life.

Those little feet which were taught to walk have remained steadfastly upon the path of righteousness. Those little hands which were taught to grasp have served and comforted countless children of our Heavenly Parents. Those little eyes which were shown the wonders of God’s creations have helped others see colors more brilliantly, mountains more majestic and others more kindly.

That mind which was so attentive in classrooms and witnessed nature with such wonder has never grown weary of expanding in knowledge and understanding and has especially been drawn to seek that learning which will be useful eternally.

Through the bearing, birthing and nurturing of her mortal children she has begun the process of learning the qualities of the one mission we know has eternal significance. They call her mother!

As she has faithfully fulfilled her missions of keeping others organized in many arenas, she has learned the importance of order, rules, laws and procedure which are essential to helping one another progress, find fulfillment and success.

By serving in the missions peculiar to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints she has learned that stewardship fulfillment can be magnified when we serve with all our might, mind and strength, when we seek and hearken to the counsel of the Holy Spirit and the essentialness of the need for the service of many, with many different talents, in various areas of the Kingdom.

While serving her mission among the wonderful people of Colombia her understanding of the brotherhood of humankind was magnified along with her circle of loved once being greatly extended.

Her mission as full time caregiver was simply an extension of a part time mission she had already been serving during which she has learned and taught the importance of co-dependence, the wonders of eternal companionship and the beginnings of the attributes and characteristics of Eternal Oneness.

Although my heart has been brought to the verge of bursting with the appreciation I have for Kathleen and what she has been, what she is and what she is becoming, and although the testimony I have born of her goodness would be reason enough for the writing of this Thought I feel it would be less than complete if I didn’t add the following:

As we prepare to enter the New Year, along with the traditional resolutions we might spend a moment or two and review the missions of our own lives.

Most importantly we would be well served to review the extensive learning and meanings of life with which we have been blessed because of serving these missions.

It might be advantageous to prayerfully ponder upon what missions of life you will be serving during the coming year and petition a blessing that you will be led to know the important lessons you are to learn.

One of the resolutions you make this year which might be the most important is that you will make a daily reminder to be attentive to what the Lord would have you learn each day as you serve the missions of life you are called to serve in this year.

My personal prayer for us all is that the true purposes of our mortal experience will be emblazoned upon our hearts and minds more powerfully and inspire us to be engaged in that which is most meaningful as we serve this coming year’s mission of our life.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE❣️❣️

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The possibility of embarrassment may be one of the principle reasons – we enter into many adventures during our lives!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Since life was designed to be a trial by faith – knowledge which comes as a result of frequently sharing miracles – could interrupt the lessons designed for wandering by faith!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

One of the reasons we are counseled not to speak too frequently – about the miracles which have been part of our lives – is that by speaking of them too openly – and – frequently our faith might become knowledge – or – they might become common – rather than faith promoting experiences!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Since I don’t expect my gleaning of knowledge – and – understanding – to end when I slip from mortality – I likewise expect my faith – and – testimony will continue to grow!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

If you want to see peace – and – calm miraculously restored to a 21st century teacher – just look at them as a technician – restores their power point presentation!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

If you want to see a 21st century teacher – go into full panic mode – just watch them when they have technical difficulty – with a power point presentation!!

A GIFT TO REMEMBER

I am pretty sure that almost all of us have at least one time in our lives faced the task of trying to buy a Christmas gift for someone who seems to have everything. I think my sister-in-law, Wendy, thought of me as one of those people, because every year she bought me another more unique and unusual gift than the year before. I have no idea the order they came in, not that it really matters. They included a fork which had been attached to a golf shaft, because my body had recently made my playing golf a past pleasure and I wondered what I would be doing with my clubs. Her silly present left me to wonder how I was supposed to use a three foot long fork. Then there was a year when she sent me a delightful framed picture of a little girl with a wonderous facial expression as she first experienced roller skating. Actually, I have no idea what made her think that picture had anything to do with me except the girl’s expression indicated she anticipates going very fast and my speed was all in my imagination by then. Or maybe it was because of the happiness which always attended our being together. One year she sent me a metal plaque which could be hung on the wall which she labeled the God of Chocolate because I had taken that delightful delicacy out of my diet. One of my favorites was a wool sculpture entitled ‘Earthman’ to which she added the postscript ‘primitive, but still melting hearts’.

Although, none of the gifts have any practical use, many times when I glance at them each morning, sitting on the shelf just behind me when I am at the computer my mind is immediately filled with memories of Wendy’s warm, selfless, loving, caring and thoughtful character. She could have easily sent a common gift which undoubtedly would have long ago been used up, broken or discarded, but instead she sought out something which was meaningful in my life and which became a lasting reminder of her and how wonderful she was.

In just a few days we will be gleefully watching with anticipation hoping that the gift we bought for someone on our list will help them remember how special they are to us. Many of us have probably spent some time wondering how the exchanging of gifts between each other came about when it was really the birth of the Savior of mankind and we should be bestowing gifts upon Him. Perhaps, the reason we have substituted bestowing gifts upon each other rather than upon Jesus the Christ is because like no other person born of women on this earth, He truly has everything.

Taking a clue from my beloved sister-in-law, Wendy, I have pondered upon what could be gifted to Him whose world this is, and hopefully what I am wrapping up for Him will strengthen our relationship as did Wendy’s with me.

I know that whatever I give must be sent with all my might, all of my mind and all of my strength.

Searching the scriptures I understand the my gift must include all my thoughts, all of my words and all of my actions.

My gift will be found wanting if it does not include a commitment of all of my self, all my time, all my talents and all the resources which are included in my stewardships.

My gift will be less than all if my heart is not renewed through being broken and if my soul is not changed through the process of contrite-ness.

I know that my gift must be given with the ultimate sacrifice of the Widow’s Mite.

I know that my gift must be wrapped with the simplicity of the Drummer Boy’s tune.

I know my gift should be accompanied by me adding my adoring voice to angelic choirs.

If my gift is to be of efficacy it must be renewed both daily and everlastingly.

Probably the greatest gift I can give in reality is actually, the returning of a gift He gave to me when I entered mortality: my Agency.

I am convinced that every light will be brighter, every package more beautifully wrapped, every meal more wonderful, every decoration more meaningful if we add Him to all of our giving and celebrating during this season, which after all, has been set apart as a time of remembrance of His Birth.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It is amazing – how much of their personal lives – people are willing to make public!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Growth will never come from a trial – until – we become grateful for the experience!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It could be that our world – would be a place with a lot more peace – and – joy – if the inhabitants were to use the same measurements to judge each other – as we use to judge ourselves??

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of seeking the spot light – while – we just can’t help our natural glow!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of over reacting to life’s experiences – while – we are just explaining our life’s trials!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of being two faced – while – while we are just say things in two different ways!!

MAKING SPECIAL TIMES SPECIAL

T’was the dance before Christmas, and all through the hall
Everything was decorated for the Christmas Ball
The mistletoe was hung by the doorway with care
In hopes that the dates would soon be there.

The kids started arriving at the front door
While visions of romance awaited the dance floor
Brother Grover in his track shoes, Jensen in his cap
Had just jogged in from their two mile lap.

When in the back of the room there arose such a clatter
We sprang from our seats to see what was the matter
Away to the kitchen we flew like a flash
Tore open the doors after undoing the latch.

The light on the crest of the unwaxed floor
Gave a luster to the objects we saw through the door
What to our wondering eyes did appear
But an Institute Teacher playing ping-pong there.

A cute little man, so quick and so lively
We knew in a moment, it must be Bill Riley
More rapid than eagles his kids they all came
And he whistled and shouted and called them by name.

Now Cevin, now Sean, now Troy and Brendan
On Rynn, on Erin – He called out to them
To the back of the table, in front of the wall
They all grabbed paddles and started hitting the ball.

Then in a twinkle, we heard through the wall
The running and jumping of feet in the hall
As we turned our heads and looked all around
Grover and Jensen jumped in with a bound.

They were dressed all in sweats from their heads to their feet
And both looked quite nervous, starting their meet
With brand new paddles, they both had in hand
We all started cheering and taking the stand.

They spoke not a word but went straight to the match
When Riley got ahead he was sure hard to catch
Then Jensen, laying the ball right into the net
Gave Billy the point which he knew he would get

After winning the game to his kids gave a shout
They all jumped the net as each one ran out
But we heard him exclaim and without any mumble
‘When you’re as great as I am, it’s hard to be humble!’

Without any reservation I can boldly proclaim that I will have to wait for my corrupted mind to have the shadows of forgetfulness removed before I will be able to recall who wrote the preceding parody or the exact events to which it refers. In fact, I am pretty sure it is based on a collection of events and not just one Christmas Ball at the Reno, Institute of Religion. In fact, I am positive we never had a dance at the Institute when any of the instructors came dressed in sweats or my children jumped over the net on the ping-pong table. If pressed I would guess that whoever wrote this delightful ditty was involved at the Institute in the later part of the 1970’s or the early part of the 1980’s. I would be filled with endless joy if anyone who reads this Thought would be able to fill in any of the missing details.

When Kathleen first showed me this long lost document last week, we both had images of long ago delightful experiences pass through our minds. During the week since that initial reminder, each time I have glanced at the tattered original copy of what I will label ‘Night at the Institute Christmas Ball’ it has opened my mind to an avalanche of eventful memories which have enriched our lives and filled them with joy.

I have also spent some time pondering about what it is, for me, that makes special times special and have come up with the following, which I am sure constitute only a partial list.

WHO

Those with whom I share an event will always head the reason it will be special and will remain special in my memory. Those included in this category are called family, friends, mentors, students, colleagues, team members etc. Probably even more important than the title by which they are identified is the attitude they bring to the event and the positive contribution they make.

WHERE

I only have to spend a few minutes in thinking about the special times of my life before I realize the places they happened was of paramount importance. One of the ‘old man’ things I do as Kathleen and I are enjoying watching television in the evenings is to say ‘been there’ when it is appropriate to where the scene is taking place. Along with realizing the marvelous gift we have been blessed with to travel to some of the wondrous places of this planet, as I express these words comes at least brief memories of the special times we had in those places. Even those which were not so special at the time, now with the passing of time, fill my heart with gratefulness.

ATMOSPHERE

Since calm and peaceful have always been much more attractive to me than noisy and riotous; ballads make events more special than grunge, mountains and beaches are more special than cities and clubs and respectful exchanges are more memorable than heated arguments. As years have passed I have come to realize that large groups deenergize me while the more intimate the gathering the more I feel myself being reenergized. This is one area where I am pretty sure that the atmosphere that multiplies the specialness of events for me will probably be different than many who are reading this Thought.

UNIQUENESS

It doesn’t have to be a once in a life time event to qualify for uniqueness, but repetition has a tendency to make things common and non-memorable. However, there are times when a like event is made unique because it is shared with a different group of WHO. or in a different WHERE, or the ATMOSPHERE has changed. Although I probably stood in front of thousands of groups as an instructor there was always a uniqueness to the experience, although some are more remembered as being more special because they were more unique. It is always remembering ‘that one time’ which indelibly engraves oft times repeated events on our minds and hearts as special.

I hope the list I have made will act as a stimulus for each reader to begin their own list as a reminder that stuff is only stuff and special-ness comes from much more important stimuli.

I hope that with but a few days remaining before we culminate the wonderful days of celebration which started for some with Halloween, some with Thanksgiving, but for all will end with the ushering in of the New Year, you will add to your already over filled ‘to do list’, which has been filled with shopping, decorating, wrapping etc. the more important things that for you will make the coming days special.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of being sarcastic – while – we are just realistic!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of always trying to impress others – while – we are just trying to achieve goals!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of saying demeaning – and – hurtful things – while – we are just trying to help others improve!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of mumbling their words – while – we just speak softly!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of being pompous about their religion – while we are just sincere believers!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNDED!!

We tend to judge others of being too emotional – while – we are just sensitive – and – empathetic!!

A FOREVER AVOCATION

With the writing of last week’s Thought, I finished my 100th Thought based on The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ which completed the fifth volume of the series Thoughts for 100 Sabbath Days which I have been self publishing. Several thoughts came to me almost immediately: First, I would be spending significant time during the coming weeks getting that volume ready for publication and second, I wasn’t in a place in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ which would stimulate thoughts appropriate for the Christmas/New Years season. I immediately came up with two possible solutions: One, I could skip forward in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ to Third Nephi which would surely fill my mind with thoughts based on the Savior, or, I could take a break from basing my Thoughts being stimulated by The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ and just write thoughts based on the end of year and the beginning of year themes. Since my mind immediately was filled with possible Christmas themed thoughts I chose the latter option.

I am pretty sure that perhaps only some of and maybe none of the decisions I have made about possible life long avocations happened during December or January. I am likewise pretty sure that very few and possibly there never has been a year that has ended or begun without my having pondered about a hobby or activity in which I could be involved for the rest of my mortal life.

Some years ago I wrote a Thought which included my having been gifted a train set by a neighbor when we lived on North Arthur in Pocatello, Idaho, and how I was absolutely certain that being a model train ‘aficionado’ would be something I could do for the rest of my life. When we lived in Reno, Nevada, I made one real serious attempt at building a model train setup. It only took me a few months of trial and error and purchasing of expensive train engines and cars for me to realize that my temperament wasn’t really compatible with model trains. It didn’t take me long to understand that I need to be involved in activities which can be resolved in short time frames and do not involve a lot of failed attempts. These many decades later I still have boxes filled with train sets and tracks which I haven’t seen or touched for years. However, I can attest that a year never ends without me thinking of those train sets and tracks in those boxes.

Another hobby, leather working, which I was sure would be desirable as an activity to fill my leisure years, also had its short lived existence while we were living in Reno, Nevada. Since we were deeply involved in renovating a home at the time and I was probably averaging 60 hours a week at work and fulfilling callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, I have no idea why I was moved to try to find anything else to do. Never the less, I dove headfirst into acquiring the tools and leather needed to become a leather carver. I did several projects which were instructional in nature and became fairly adept in the processes. I did some projects for family and friends, but it wasn’t long before I came to the understanding that keeping my current proficiency and improving my talent in artistic leather work would only come by sacrificing many other activities which I found enjoyable or necessary. These many decades later I still have a box filled with tools and patterns which I haven’t seen or touched for years.

Since sports have been a pleasure or a plague, depending on who you might ask, I have been on the look out during my life for a sport in which I could be involved for the rest of my life. Basketball was only on the list until because of damaged ankles I had to crawl to the bathroom the morning after a game. Softball enjoyed a run until I pulled an oblique muscle making a play that at one time came very naturally, but now was disabling. Volleyball headed the list for a long time, but lost its elevated position when the pain in my knees and ankles far out weighed any pleasure on the court. Golf had a long and expensive run until spinal stenosis made standing, balancing and swinging a club impossible. The golf clubs still are prominent in the garage along with the remaining golf balls which our son Rynn has as yet not hit into some hollow in Cedar City, Utah. Though the balls involved in those joyful years of being actively involved in sports have now been given to progeny or landfills, I can attest that a year never ends without me thinking of those enjoyable moments which were spent on courts, fields and courses.

After retiring as a professional teacher I continued to stand in front of classes for another five years and then I had the thought that maybe I could have voluntary teaching as an end of life avocation. This dream came to a quick end when I had to have a succession of surgeries; first, to have my bone knee replaced with one of titanium and then, a triple laminectomy to relieve the pressure on the nerves in my spinal column caused by spinal stenosis, ended my standing in front of a classroom filled with students.

It wasn’t long after the computer had become a predominant part of my everyday activity when Kathleen declared that I hadn’t quit teaching, I was just doing it in a different way. It has become abundantly apparent since she opened that vision to me that in the ten years since I wrote my first Thought for a Sabbath day entitled My Littleness, and published it on Sunday, June 21, 2009, in both English and Spanish that my life long avocation would mirror my vocation of teaching. Since I now am about to publish my fifth volume of Thoughts for 100 Sabbath Days and am about to begin to compile a third volume of Life's Lessons Learned and because I feel it best describes what my life has been all about I now think of myself as a publisher. A Publisher of Peace. A Publisher of Joy. A Publisher of Love. A Publisher of Faith. A Publisher of Hope. A Publisher of Charity. Which all adds up to a very good avocation.

A Publisher of Peace.

Wherefore, with the help of these, king Benjamin, by laboring with all the might of his body and the faculty of his whole soul, and also the prophets, did once more establish peace in the land. (Words of Mormon 1: 18)

A Publisher of Joy.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. (Luke 2: 10)

A Publisher of Love.

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. (1 John 4: 7)

A Publisher of Faith.

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. (Alma 32: 21)

A Publisher of Hope.

That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil… (Hebrews 6: 18, 19)

A Publisher of Charity.

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—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. (Moroni 7: 46, 47)

What a wonderful end to my quest to find an avocation which will last till the end of mortality, which will give me glorious ponderings during the endings and beginnings of each year of the remainder of my life and which will endure.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of being shy and retiring – while – we are just humble!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of being controlled by fashion – while – we just keep ourselves well attired – and – groomed!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others of seeking praise – and – glory – while – we have just been blessed with personalities – and – talents others seem to be drawn to!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others as being overly dramatic – while – we just make our conversations more interesting by stimulating them with a variation of expressions!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others to be in captivity to their habits – while – we just constantly do those things we enjoy!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others to be slaves to television viewing – while – we just watch our favorite shows every night!!

EQUALITY

By the time we reach chapter 28 of the Book of Alma in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ we are reading about one of history’s great ironical twists. The Anti-Nephi-Lehies who were descended from Lehi’s rebellious sons Laman and Lemuel were now the most righteous people in the Lands occupied by those who had followed Lehi’s righteous son Nephi, while the Lamanites were now sustained in their hatred of the Nephites by rebellious descendants of Nephi.

Alma describes this juxtaposition in these verses from the afore mentioned chapter which recounts a tremendous battle between those who at that point identified themselves as Lamanites and those who were counted among the Nephites.

Nephites

5 Yea, the cry of widows mourning for their husbands, and also of fathers mourning for their sons, and the daughter for the brother, yea, the brother for the father; and thus the cry of mourning was heard among all of them, mourning for their kindred who had been slain.

6 And now surely this was a sorrowful day; yea, a time of solemnity, and a time of much fasting and prayer.

12 While many thousands of others truly mourn for the loss of their kindred, yet they rejoice and exult in the hope, and even know, according to the promises of the Lord, that they are raised to dwell at the right hand of God, in a state of never-ending happiness.

Lamanites

13 And thus we see how great the inequality of man is because of sin and transgression, and the power of the devil, which comes by the cunning plans which he hath devised to ensnare the hearts of men.
All of Heavenly Father’s Children while in this Telestial World

14 And thus we see the great call of diligence of men to labor in the vineyards of the Lord; and thus we see the great reason of sorrow, and also of rejoicing—sorrow because of death and destruction among men, and joy because of the light of Christ unto life.

It is important to note that all of Heavenly Father’s children while in mortality have the freedom to make choices which will lead them to follow the cunning plans of he who has devised to ensnare their hearts, or to choose paths which will further them along the way towards eventually dwelling on the right hand of God, in a state of never-ending happiness.

It is interesting to note that Alma identifies that the root of all this bloodshed stemmed from the inequality of men because of their sin and transgression. Therefore, I don’t believe it is a very big stretch to say that anything which causes inequality between the mortal offspring of Heavenly Father can be labeled sin and transgression.

Choices which lead to inequality and eventual destruction:

Believing and proclaiming sentiments of superiority because of race, nationality or social status.

Using belittling and caustic words to demean others.

Acting on the belief that a difference of belief is a reason to hate others.

Acting on the belief that God has given you the blessings of privilege because of your obvious righteousness.

Acting on the belief that others are not blessed of God because of their obvious inferiority and unworthiness.

Acting on the belief that leaders are in positions which merit them the privilege of being served by others.

Acting on the belief in their superiority because of wealth, education or position of birth.

It must be noted that Alma believes the only way this sinful inequality among men will end is for those who received the call to labor diligently to bring the joy of the light of Christ into the lives of their brothers and sisters.

Choices which lead to experiencing the joy which comes from receiving the light of Christ:

Acting on the belief in the declaration of the Lord that all are alike unto him,

Acting on the belief that we should only speak about others in words which will edify, strengthen and build them.

Acting on the belief that all blessings which are received are but a means whereby we have the capacity to lift others.

Acting on the belief that any teachings which invite us to treat each other with greater degrees of equality are of God.

Acting on the belief when viewing the suffering of others, that ‘there but for the grace of God go I’ and put forth a hand to lift and sustain.

Acting on the belief that all positions of leadership in which one might find themselves, is a gift given to them to be able to magnify their service to others.

Acting on the belief that wealth, education and birth rights are blessings which should be used to better the conditions of others.

In no way do I consider these lists to be exhaustive, but hopefully they will stimulate moments of pondering upon how we might all become less involved in those beliefs and actions which lead to inequality and more involved in those beliefs and actions which move us along the path leading to the joy of the light of Christ.

I feel impressed to add a word of caution to those who would cast aside this Thought into the heap of Pollyanna-ish-ness, that it would be well to contemplate where continuing along the path of inequality, which caused thousands of widows to mourn for their husbands and thousands of fathers to mourn the death of their sons will bring us.

We have been given a warning voice from the ashes of those who perished 2093 years ago because of the fruits of the sins produced by rampant inequality. May the Lord bless us to be enveloped with His light and thereby partake of the fruits of His joy.

THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others to be raising their children with excessive leniency – while – we just exercise wise restraint – because we believe in the law of consequences!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others as being lazy – and – unproductive – while – we just spend the proper amount of energy – commiserate with the compensation we receive!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We tend to judge others to be fat – or – obese – while we examine ourselves – and – say we have put on a few pounds!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Our lack of having a clear understanding – of why our neighbors – make the choices they do – provides us all with ample opportunity – to practice patience – and – tolerance!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Is pointing out – the micromanaging propensities of another – an act of micromanaging??

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Since we are all imperfect beings – with imperfect understanding – it is no wonder – why we will not always share the same views – or – opinions!!

HOMECOMING

The scene has been portrayed by artists, poets have written countless verses about it, congregations and choirs proclaim it in songs and it has been testified of by prophets, yet, for most mortals the events which follow quickly upon our passing from this current phase of existence into the next, remains a thing hoped for, held in our hearts by faith, but not known.

The Scene

Husbands and wives envision it as an affirmation of everlasting vows, accompanied by one of eternity’s most loving embraces.

Families have confidence that invitations have been sent out and accepted by all who are found on the branches of ancestral trees.

The lonely and troubled who have walked solitary paths during mortality envision long desired, outstretched loving arms of care enfolding them.

The multitudes who have perished because of mankind having set their greedy hearts on war and contention, picture a peaceful, serene gathering where hate no longer rules.

The humble and rich are overwhelmed by surprise at vistas which contain neither shacks nor mansions, but abodes ample for their needs.

The honored and mighty of the earth, suddenly are overwhelmed at finding themselves in an attitude of bowing and kneeling before the King of Kings and are humbled by the complete absence of others giving abeyance to them.

The unknowable number of those whose earthly sojourn was but a few minutes, hours or days are filled with unspeakable joy that their absence from their heavenly abode was so brief.

A strong probability exists that the variety of the scenes, of imagined returnings from our time as strangers in a strange land back to our home, are just like the children of Abraham, as numerous as the stars in the heavens.

I seldom read chapter 27 of the Book of Alma in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ without having my own faith-based, hoped for reunion press upon my ponderings. The scenes which I have just described come and go during those pondering moments, but there is one scene which seems to always bring down the curtain upon my thoughts which were stimulated by these final words of Ammon.

In this scene the Giver of all Gifts, our very Father in Heaven bestows a temporary blessings of His Omnipresence upon whoever is making the passage of laying their mortal body aside and entering into Eternal Life. With that glorious gift the totality of one’s existence is at once accessible to their present conscience-ness.

They are at once with those who they discussed Heavenly Father’s Plan with during the Premortal part of their eternal journey.

They are at once with those who were influential in their conversion to Heavenly Father’s Plan.

They are at once with those who prayed with them as they departed their Heavenly Home and journeyed unto the strange land.

They were with the loving parents who nurtured and cherished them.

The veil of forgetfulness was removed and remembrance of every friend and loved one they had interacted with during mortality was within the blessing of God’s gift.

Every tutor and mentor along with their instruction and inspiration came into the vision and renewed the warmness felt at the first hearing.

Momentarily an awareness was allowed which included all who you never suspected to have appreciated your attempts to serve during mortality.

The nearest and dearest were not only part of the vision, but somehow in that blessed moment it was as if they had actually become part of your very existence.

There is an all consuming feeling that you and your one and only, have become in all ways one.

Just as the magnificent moment feels like you are about to be consumed by it’s very light, the Mercy of our Heavenly Father removes the gift and replaces it with the understanding that through your continued progression in the just entered into phase of your eternal existence the day may come when you will have progressed to that level where the Gift of Omnipresence as well as all the gifts of Eternal Lives could be Everlastingly received.

I am going to end this Thought by including a few verses for the afore mentioned chapter and I invite you to allow the spirit to carry your ponderings into thinking about your own foreordained reunion.

Alma 27

7 And Ammon said: I will go and inquire of the Lord, and if he say unto us, go down unto our brethren, will ye go?

8 And the king said unto him: Yea, if the Lord saith unto us go, we will go down unto our brethren, and we will be their slaves until we repair unto them the many murders and sins which we have committed against them.

11 And it came to pass that Ammon went and inquired of the Lord…

14 And they gathered together all their people, yea, all the people of the Lord, and did gather together all their flocks and herds, and departed out of the land, and came into the wilderness which divided the land of Nephi from the land of Zarahemla, and came over near the borders of the land.

16 And it came to pass that as Ammon was going forth into the land, that he and his brethren met Alma, over in the place of which has been spoken; and behold, this was a joyful meeting.

17 Now the joy of Ammon was so great even that he was full; yea, he was swallowed up in the joy of his God, even to the exhausting of his strength; and he fell again to the earth.

18 Now was not this exceeding joy? Behold, this is joy which none receiveth save it be the truly penitent and humble seeker of happiness.

20 And now it came to pass that Alma conducted his brethren back to the land of Zarahemla; even to his own house. And they went and told the chief judge all the things that had happened unto them in the land of Nephi, among their brethren, the Lamanites.

21 And it came to pass that the chief judge sent a proclamation throughout all the land, desiring the voice of the people concerning the admitting their brethren, who were the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi.

22 And it came to pass that the voice of the people came, saying: Behold, we will give up the land of Jershon, which is on the east by the sea, which joins the land Bountiful, which is on the south of the land Bountiful; and this land Jershon is the land which we will give unto our brethren for an inheritance.

26 And it came to pass that it did cause great joy among them. And they went down into the land of Jershon, and took possession of the land of Jershon; and they were called by the Nephites the people of Ammon; therefore they were distinguished by that name ever after.

27 And they were among the people of Nephi, and also numbered among the people who were of the church of God. And they were also distinguished for their zeal towards God, and also towards men; for they were perfectly honest and upright in all things; and they were firm in the faith of Christ, even unto the end.

30 And thus they were a zealous and beloved people, a highly favored people of the Lord.

If you have had a problem correlating the Nephites giving the Anti-Nephi-Lehies the lands of Jershon with our returning to our Heavenly abode, let me indicated a few markers.

They went forth according to the Lord’s plan.

All former interactions were forgotten.

The word joy is used to describe every interactive reunion.

They were of one belief.

They were full of zeal towards all.

They were full of zeal towards God.

They were honest and upright.

They were firm in their faith of Christ, forever more.

They were a beloved people.

They were a people highly favored of the Lord.

I pray the Lord’s blessings will attend us all and bring us joyously to that wonderful bright day of Homecoming.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

I think it should be required – when referencing a scripture during a lesson – that it be identified in its historical context – before it is used to support a modern position on a principle!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There are no other doctrines which helps us understand – the universal kinship of the earth’s inhabitants – than those which enlighten us about our shared premortal – and – our post-mortal stages of existence – and – the oneness of our
Eternal Parentage!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

In the end – the thing we ultimately will be most grateful for – will be the completeness of the mercy – and – grace of our loving Heavenly Father!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Although we may have hands laid upon our heads – and – have the Gift of the Holy Spirit bestowed upon us – the constancy of His presence – and – influence in our lives will always be conditional – upon us remaining as faithful as we were on the day we received the Gift!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The ordinance of baptism – most often seems – more like a conception – than a rebirth!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

A sure sign – of the sincerity of our repentance might be – that we see our personal characteristics – coming to be more in line with those of our Heavenly Parents!

HOLY CALLING FROM GOD

I had read only a few words of Ammon in chapter 26 of the Book of Alma, where he is rejoicing to his brothers about the miraculous mission they had been part of in bringing so many of their Lamanite cousin’s unto the Lord, when my mind flashed back to Alma’s words in chapter 13 of his book.

And again, my brethren, I would cite your minds forward to the time when the Lord God gave these commandments unto his children; and I would that ye should remember that the Lord God ordained priests, after his holy order, which was after the order of his Son, to teach these things unto the people. And those priests were ordained after the order of his Son, in a manner that thereby the people might know in what manner to look forward to his Son for redemption. And this is the manner after which they were ordained—being called and prepared from the foundation of the world according to the foreknowledge of God, on account of their exceeding faith and good works; in the first place being left to choose good or evil; therefore they having chosen good, and exercising exceedingly great faith, are called with a holy calling, yea, with that holy calling which was prepared with, and according to, a preparatory redemption for such. And thus they have been called to this holy calling on account of their faith, while others would reject the Spirit of God on account of the hardness of their hearts and blindness of their minds, while, if it had not been for this they might have had as great privilege as their brethren.

Or in fine, in the first place they were on the same standing with their brethren; thus this holy calling being prepared from the foundation of the world for such as would not harden their hearts, being in and through the atonement of the Only Begotten Son, who was prepared—And thus being called by this holy calling, and ordained unto the high priesthood of the holy order of God, to teach his commandments unto the children of men, that they also might enter into his rest—This high priesthood being after the order of his Son, which order was from the foundation of the world; or in other words, being without beginning of days or end of years, being prepared from eternity to all eternity, according to his foreknowledge of all things—Now they were ordained after this manner—being called with a holy calling, and ordained with a holy ordinance, and taking upon them the high priesthood of the holy order, which calling, and ordinance, and high priesthood, is without beginning or end—Thus they become high priests forever, after the order of the Son, the Only Begotten of the Father, who is without beginning of days or end of years, who is full of grace, equity, and truth. And thus it is. Amen. (Alma 13: 1-9)

These verses give us a rare and unique glimpse of our progression during our premortal estate, when the children of our Heavenly Parents, such as those like the Alma’s, Ammon’s and all those who would become the mighty ones of God’s army, progressed to the point of being ordained to the Holy Priesthood and foreordained to bless the posterity of God during mortality.

It then takes only a brief moment before one begins to wonder about that veiled part of their own eternal progression and whether they likewise had been ordained because of their personal progress and the foreknowledge of God to teach His commandments unto His children.

Now that I have passed through so many doors
Now that there seem to be so few doors left unopened
I have to ask – is what I am becoming
What I was meant to be?

A quick perusal of Ammon’s joyful account of his mission among the Lamanites found in chapter 26 of the Book of Alma, gives a wonderful list of performances which can be useful in evaluating one’s own fulfillment of Heavenly ordained commissions.

Have I been an instrument in the hands of God to bring thousands into the fold of God?

Have I mightily thrust in my sickle all the day long bringing sheaves into the garners of the Lord?

Have I brought forth sheaves which can withstand storms and winds and remain strong?

Have I refrained from boasting in my own strength?

Do I understand that with the aid of God, I can do all things which He asks of me?

Is my heart filled with joy because I rejoice in my God?

Do I praise and glory in the Lord forever?

Do I understand the impossibility of giving too much glory, praise and power to God?

Do I understand the extent of God’s mercy and long-suffering toward the children of men?

Do I understand the blessings which come from repentance?

Do I understand the blessings which come from continuous prayer?

Do I understand the blessings which come from doing good works?

Do I understand the blessings of knowing the mysteries of God which come to those who are faithful?

Do I believe that God is mindful of every people?

Do I believe that God’s bowels of mercy are over all the earth?

Do I believe that God has all power, all wisdom, all understanding and that He comprehendeth all things?

Although relatively few of our Heavenly Parents’ children have been foreordained to fulfill such marvelous works as did Alma and Ammon and all the mighty and great who lead God’s army, we also understand the importance the Lord has placed on the widow’s mite.

We are reminded of the marvelous blessings which are promised to those who labor all their days and bring but a single sheave unto the garners of the Lord.

We are reminded that the contribution of even those mighty and great ones will be but a pittance when compared to the mission and Atonement of the Lord Jesus the Christ.

We are reminded that in the Lord’s work faithfulness is never measured by the number of sheaves brought to the garners of the Lord, but by the effort which was expended during their harvest.

We are reminded that there is no such thing as a minor Holy Calling from God.

When I have passed through that last mortal door
When I once again abide in a more familiar home
Will I then wonder if I became
All I was sent to become?


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It only takes – a brief perusal of the diversities of the tests – and – experiences humanity passes through – to appreciate the magnitude of the intelligence of God!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

I gain a greater conviction – with each year I am blessed – to observe the comings – and – goings of humans – that our Loving Heavenly Father – has designed the tests of our mortal span – individually – so that we each have the opportunity – to maximize our potential!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

I may be wrong – but – it seems to be taking fewer years – for those of the older generation – to be viewed by the new generations as dinosaurs – and – for them to have their worth become extinct!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

I know I am from the old school – but – the propensity to read talks from the pulpit – stimulates a desire for the good old days – when speakers had a few notes – which they used – to lead them through their remarks!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Although – technological advances have aided us in many ways – and – provided us with added comforts – and – advantages – I question – whether making it easier to prepare to read a talk in Church meetings – will in the end be counted as one of them!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It is difficult to understand – why there are those – who even when talking about the most positive of principles – present them in a negative way??

LET YOUR HEARTS BE CALM

I haven’t been able to identify what was so different about this week; nations still threaten and war against nations, populations still suffer because of selfish leaders, men and women still lie and murder to get gain, people are still getting married or living together until it is no longer self- satisfying, the perfecting of character assassination skills continues, leaving one with the feeling of living in a world which is in a rapidly accelerating downward spiral which can only end in destruction, but for some reason it has caused me to have an increase of anxiety about what future we are heading towards.

During those hours when I have had my brow in my hands, wrung those hands, stared out the window without really seeing through the pain of glass or just sitting in a chair in a state of concerned numbness, I have pondered about what advice the well meaning, but totally wrong friends of Job would have pontificated had they been made aware of my thoughts.

I am pretty sure an escape to a very isolated and lonely spot would have been suggested.

Someone surely would have suggested that a moratorium on all forms of news media, including print, audio, electronic or just back fence gossip would solve the problem.

There is no doubt that the suggestion to do some pulling up on my bootstraps would have been proffered.

I am pretty sure if I had been younger one of these well meaning acquaintances would have told me to get in the fray and try to make a difference.

Since the increasing rotations of the sphere spiraling out of control seems to have reached a condition of perpetual motion, I am pretty certain that said friends of Job will continue to come up with ways to bury ones head so deeply in the sand that the noise of the world’s commotion will be stifled, but the looming death, devastation and destruction will continue to become more eminent.

In anticipation of writing this Thought I started reading in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ and was immediately struck with the realization that things have not changed during the last 2,100 years. Men have yet to come close to following the admonition of Paul the ancient Apostle: Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8)

And so the apostles and prophets bring us back to what should occupy our minds, time, and actions. Not the terrors which have and will endlessly roam the earth, but on those characteristics, attributes and perfections which will inch us towards becoming faithful sons and daughters of our Eternally loving, Merciful and Just Heavenly Father. In fact Paul in that same epistle to the Philippians had preceded his list of things we should set our minds and hearts upon with the following promise: Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful (fears) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4: 4-7)

We turn back to Him who has called us friends and are forcefully reminded that the solution to living in a telestial world and not filling one’s mind with the carnal, sensual and evil which have always and will always exist in such an abode, is to set one’s mind upon things which are virtuous and praise worthy. Doing so with such diligence and abundance that little time is left for dwelling upon grosser ideas and problems.

We read in chapter 26: 14-16 of the Book of Alma that as Ammon, his brethren and the Anti-Nephi-Lehi converts were fleeing through forests from the Lamanite armies, towards unknown, but hoped for safety, Ammon counsels them to put their minds upon the following thoughts rather than the conflicts and dangers of the world.

Be righteous.

Walk in the ways of the Lord.

Observe to keep His statutes and commandments.

Look forward to the coming of Christ.

Keep the outward performances of the gospel.

Strengthen your faith in Christ.

Retain a hope through faith unto eternal salvation.

Rely on the spirit of prophecy.

As one who has been blessed to spend the majority of his days trying to learn, understand and find the way of the gospel plan, I should have learned long ago that there is plenty and more to learn, think about and strive to inculcate into one’s life, that there is no real need to allow the troubles of this telestial world to become a peace destroying annoyance.

I conclude with the counsel and promise found in Doctrine and Covenants 121: 44-46 which if followed will easily occupy my thoughts for more than a lifetime.

That he may know that thy faithfulness is stronger than the cords of death. Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven. The Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, and thy scepter an unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth; and thy dominion shall be an everlasting dominion, and without compulsory means it shall flow unto thee forever and ever.

And my heart shall be calm.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It is possible – when we are trying to justify our position on a subject – facts may become skewed!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Coming into contact – with a person who has emerged themselves – deeply into a hobby – or – interest – can end with both positive – and – negative results!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Following the loosely strung points – some speakers are trying to connect – at time is more difficult – than struggling through a massive corn maize!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

: There are times – when speakers take such a long journey – before they arrive at a point – that many of the listeners have tuned out – because they were lost along the way.

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There are those – who view most of their life’s events – as trials – while interestingly – others view similar events – as opportunities for growth!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Those things – which distract us during Church meetings – are usually on the opposite end of the spectrum – from that which the speaker – has prepared – and – is presenting!!

I WILL MAKE WAR NO MORE, FOREVER

Although it is correct and popular to say such things as ‘We only have one life to live,’ or ‘You only live once,’ as I review my life I find that during my personal ‘only once’ span of mortality I have lived in a constant blur of changing eras.

There was an era of a second war to end all wars and a subsequent short period of peace and recovery needed to prepare for the next conflict. It is interesting that my most vivid memories of that era of my life was watching newsreels about the war and pounding tin cans flat for the war effort.

There was an era of innocence which included a bout with rheumatic fever and frolicking in parks.

There was an era which, when it was going on, was referred to as the fabulous days, but later a television show popularized the name happy days and thus it will always be referred as.

There were eras which shifted in and out during all the eras which were referred to as high fashion days or big or whatever hair days.

There is an era of technology which changes so rapidly that the whole world is in a continual hurry to keep up, but always seems to be one gadget behind.

I don’t know how it happened, but even though we had had two World Wars and from them learned of the tremendous loss which comes from warring, during my life there was an era of the Korean Conflict, an era of the Vietnam War, the Cold War era and an ongoing era of Peace Keeping Operations which resemble wars in every sense of the word.

As I was rereading chapter 24 of Alma in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ, the thought came vividly into my mind, that during my life I have lived in a country which loves peace, but seems to be constantly at war. I am reminded of Red Rider movies from the long ago era of television, where Red Rider, just before wiping out half the population of a county, would proclaim ‘I’m a peaceable man’.

As I evaluate the effect war has had on me during my life there is little doubt that what was going on during the Vietnam war caused me greater trauma than any other bloodletting between nations. I had friends who lost their lives. I had friends who escaped the war by going to Canada. I had friends who were staunchly patriotic. I had friends who joined the anti-war movement. Although I was never what one would call an activist I was somewhat of a mixture between being a patriot and an anti-war advocate. Since I was still a member of the Army Reserves being patriotic had to be part of me, but there were also many tugs which drew me away from worshiping war. As I have been blessed with a prolongation of my days I have definitely seen the viewpoint of being anti-war become a more prevalent philosophical position of my life.

I know it is entirely possible and indeed popular to use The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ as text to justify war.

The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ teaches about war being essential for the protection of family and religion.

The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ teaches that since evil exists and their will be those who conspire to destroy others or put them into subjection, it is always essential to be prepared to protect your own lands and freedoms against such people.

However!

In the afore mentioned chapter 24 of Alma the converted Lamanites who had taken upon themselves the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehies in order to repent of their bloodthirsty past, buried their weapons deep in the earth and took an oath never to take up arms again.

The account of Ammon tells of the test of conviction which came upon them shortly after they had buried their weapons of war. The unconverted Lamanites who were mostly made up of groups which had at one time been Nephites, came upon them and true to their oath they bowed down before the invading army and before the Lamanites (previously Nephites) grew tired of slaying them, some 1,005 had perished.

Some important passages from Alma 24.

1 And it came to pass that the Amalekites and the Amulonites and the Lamanites who were in the land of Amulon, and also in the land of Helam, and who were in the land of Jerusalem, and in fine, in all the land round about, who had not been converted and had not taken upon them the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, were stirred up by the Amalekites and by the Amulonites to anger against their brethren.

6 Now there was not one soul among all the people who had been converted unto the Lord that would take up arms against their brethren; nay, they would not even make any preparations for war; yea, and also their king commanded them that they should not.

7 Now, these are the words which he said unto the people concerning the matter: I thank my God, my beloved people, that our great God has in goodness sent these our brethren, the Nephites, unto us to preach unto us, and to convince us of the traditions of our wicked fathers.

10 And I also thank my God, yea, my great God, that he hath granted unto us that we might repent of these things, and also that he hath forgiven us of those our many sins and murders which we have committed, and taken away the guilt from our hearts, through the merits of his Son.

14 And the great God has had mercy on us, and made these things known unto us that we might not perish; yea, and he has made these things known unto us beforehand, because he loveth our souls as well as he loveth our children; therefore, in his mercy he doth visit us by his angels, that the plan of salvation might be made known unto us as well as unto future generations.

15 Oh, how merciful is our God! And now behold, since it has been as much as we could do to get our stains taken away from us, and our swords are made bright, let us hide them away that they may be kept bright, as a testimony to our God at the last day, or at the day that we shall be brought to stand before him to be judged, that we have not stained our swords in the blood of our brethren since he imparted his word unto us and has made us clean thereby.

18 And this they did, it being in their view a testimony to God, and also to men, that they never would use weapons again for the shedding of man’s blood; and this they did, vouching and covenanting with God, that rather than shed the blood of their brethren they would give up their own lives; and rather than take away from a brother they would give unto him; and rather than spend their days in idleness they would labor abundantly with their hands.

20 And it came to pass that their brethren, the Lamanites, made preparations for war, and came up to the land of Nephi for the purpose of destroying the king, and to place another in his stead, and also of destroying the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi out of the land.

21 Now when the people saw that they were coming against them they went out to meet them, and prostrated themselves before them to the earth, and began to call on the name of the Lord; and thus they were in this attitude when the Lamanites began to fall upon them, and began to slay them with the sword.

22 And thus without meeting any resistance, they did slay a thousand and five of them; and we know that they are blessed, for they have gone to dwell with their God.

24 Now when the Lamanites saw this they did forbear from slaying them; and there were many whose hearts had swollen in them for those of their brethren who had fallen under the sword, for they repented of the things which they had done.

25 And it came to pass that they threw down their weapons of war, and they would not take them again, for they were stung for the murders which they had committed; and they came down even as their brethren, relying upon the mercies of those whose arms were lifted to slay them.

26 And it came to pass that the people of God were joined that day by more than the number who had been slain; and those who had been slain were righteous people, therefore we have no reason to doubt but what they were saved.

27 And there was not a wicked man slain among them; but there were more than a thousand brought to the knowledge of the truth; thus we see that the Lord worketh in many ways to the salvation of his people.

28 Now the greatest number of those of the Lamanites who slew so many of their brethren were Amalekites and Amulonites, the greatest number of whom were after the order of the Nehors.

To those who believe in the blessings of our next stage of existence the lost of mortal life has little significance when one has an eternal perspective.

I recognize the uniqueness of this story, but it reminds me of when the Lord said it was the Peace Makers who would be blessed.

Although the radical anti-war movement never moved me from my Uniformed patriotism, I was moved by the words of Carl Sandberg from his book The People Yes, ‘Sometime they will give a war and nobody will come.

It is also of note that with all the justifications of war because of protection for family, the end of the wars in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ is the utter death, desolation and destruction of a nation.

It seems that Isaiah foresaw a different ending for the era of the Latter Days when he foretold the following; And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. O house of Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light of the Lord. (Isaiah 2: 2-4)

Just as Hin-mah-too-yah-lat-kekt or Hinmatóowyalahtq̓it, popularly known as Chief Joseph, Young Joseph, or Joseph the Younger the great leader of the of the Wal-lam-wat-kain (Wallowa) band of Nez Perce proclaimed ‘I will make no war, forever’, I pray the day will come when the children of the Universal Heavenly Father will come to be so converted that we will likewise go and make no war, forever.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Being flexible – is only appropriate – if it doesn’t stop us – from developing good habits!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Habits are only helpful – if they don’t prevent us – from being flexible – or – cause us to stagnate!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The Lord’s mercy – often comes in moments of need – from unexpected sources!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There may come a time – when it feels as if a master switch has been turned off – when you no longer have a need – or – maybe you no longer have a desire – to make contributions in classes!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

If we are not careful – during our golden years – we could become overcome with sadness – when we realize our thoughts – are no longer viewed – as being precious!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Directions for our personal advancement – which come by the whisperings of the Holy Spirit – usually only come – as a result – or our having initiated the conversation – through prayer!!

TRUE CONVERSION

As we continue reading the remarkable account of Ammon and his brother’s missionary work among the Lamanites we find the following account of the conversion of the children of Lehi who had previously referred to themselves as Lamanites, but now took upon themselves the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehies (Alma 23: 17).

And now it came to pass that when the king had sent forth this proclamation, that Aaron and his brethren went forth from city to city, and from one house of worship to another, establishing churches, and consecrating priests and teachers throughout the land among the Lamanites, to preach and to teach the word of God among them; and thus they began to have great success.

And thousands were brought to the knowledge of the Lord, yea, thousands were brought to believe in the traditions of the Nephites; and they were taught the records and prophecies which were handed down even to the present time.

And as sure as the Lord liveth, so sure as many as believed, or as many as were brought to the knowledge of the truth, through the preaching of Ammon and his brethren, according to the spirit of revelation and of prophecy, and the power of God working miracles in them—yea, I say unto you, as the Lord liveth, as many of the Lamanites as believed in their preaching, and were converted unto the Lord, never did fall away.

For they became a righteous people; they did lay down the weapons of their rebellion, that they did not fight against God any more, neither against any of their brethren.

Now, these are they who were converted unto the Lord: (Alma 23: 4-8)

Having had the experience of witnessing many people bear testimony of knowing the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus the Christ and thereafter falling away, it makes me marvel that this vast community of Anti-Nephi-Lehies, in spite of having many trials pressed down upon them, never wavered in their conviction.

The great difference between the converts I have observed during my life and that of the Lamanite converts who lived in what are now called the Americas during the last century before the birth of the Savior, has brought into my mind many ponderings about why this difference exists.

It seems we can rule out, since the basic gospel message has remained unchanged and the Holy Spirit continues to fulfill His office as the Testator, people in all dispensations should have equal opportunity of once having received an understanding of the truth, being able to remain strong in their faith.

If the Lord has promised never to test us beyond our ability to resist, are peoples of different times subjected to different levels of temptation, or do they have different levels of ability to resist?

Is it possible that the expectancy level of obedience the Lord places on different generations is not a constant?

Why do children of seemingly faithful parents not grasp the principles of truth to the same degree?

Why do any of us seem to frequently vacillate in the degree of conviction to the principle of the Gospel?

I recently received a response to one of my Thoughts from a dear friend and mentor which I think could be helpful as we ponder the phenomena of unequal conversions.

In this transient life we make choices and decisions, but we do so with at best a confused and muddled understanding; a confused and dim picture dependent on the influences around us.

To the extent that men (and women) who influence us are right, and to the extent that our interpretations and discernment affords us true grasp of what they teach us, then our choices MAY be right. Not completely right because between the receiving of revelation (or insight for that matter), the intellectual grasp of a message from the infinite, the conversion of the message into human language, the transmission of that message to another whose personal use and grasp of language differ from the prophets (or another person’s) and the actuation of that message, it will of necessity become altered.

The reception of a message from a prophet is not equivalent to a message to a prophet.

Having received much input from others and from God’s spirit from His world, we exercise our agency, make decisions and commitments; then we die.

We, in life, have seen through a glass darkly, but then face to face.

Now, at last, how would one say, how could I say that, knowing that indeed God is God, not only great but Infinite, could anyone possibly continually make such a self destructive choice?

Agency persists however. With agency, there must be consequences. (Paul Maddox)

And therein we find many answers to our quandaries.

Because of Agency it is absolutely certain that the consequences of choices will result in vast differences of conversion durability and quality.

Because of the consequences which attend agency we need not fear about eternal absolute justice.

Because of Agency we will always be amiss in trying to make dispensational or individual comparisons.

Because we now walk inside of the glass darkly, the total understanding of the mysterious dispensational work of Heavenly Father with His children will have to wait until that Eternal day when we become children of the light.

Since my personal struggle with the process of remaining constant, committed and converted to those things I have born witness of is ongoing and the inspirational informational input seems endless, it would be well for me to allow my neighbor the privacy of their personal journey in a world operated and sustained by the Divine principle of Agency,


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Expecting all people – to experience spiritual manifestations – in the same way – or – from the same stimuli – is far from realistic!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When the Lord has called you – to be one of His instruments – and – given you a stewardship – which could have an effect on the lives of others – the Holy Spirit will awaken your mind – and – make sure you receive the inspired instructions – necessary to guide those you have been called to serve!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Mortal tests – and – trials – are not always a result – of our personal use of Agency!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Readiness to accept an invitation – to come unto Christ – depends almost entirely on the preparedness – of the invitee – to respond to the promptings of the Holy Spirit – not on the talents – or – abilities of the inviter!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When others reject our invitation – to come unto Christ – it is not a condemnation of our efforts – but their – proper use of the law of Agency!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Even the most devout – those who try to hold tightly to the rod – and – those who stay steadfast on the path of righteousness – will occasionally – lose their hand grip – or – stumble off of the path!!

COMING UNTO JESUS THE CHRIST

I had barely read the introduction to chapter 19 of the Book of Alma in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ when my mind diverted my attention from the page and I started down a pondering detour about the variety of paths which I have observed people taking on their journey of coming unto Jesus the Christ.

I have known many whom I always identify in the catalogue of my mind as those who are ‘born with believing spirits’. From their earliest recollections they have always believed in the existence of God. This gift never seemed to vary even though their personal journey through the religions of the world may have taken many twists and turns. Some of those in this category are born into families which are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. There are many others who come to be members of that church later in life, but their faith in God did not begin with that affiliation. There are some who never become acquainted with the restored gospel and even may have an alternate name for their deity, but retain a lifelong belief and never doubt the existence of God.

Another listing in my mind’s catalogue might be titled ‘life altering events converts’. These are they who usually have little interest one way or another in religion or the existence of God, but because of one of many different but spectacular events, they were put on a wondering journey about the purpose of life and a curiosity about the existence of a higher power. These events include the death of a loved one, a personal physical or emotional affliction, a dramatic loss of wealth, work status, honor and prestige, a change in family or marriage along with a myriad of other sudden changes which come upon mankind. I have noticed that if some action such as scriptural study or affiliation with some religious organization does not quickly follow the life altering event, the moment seems to be lost and those belonging to this group return to their former comfort zone or even become condemning of a deity they don’t believe in.

The next group which I see in my mind’s catalogue would best be titled ‘divine intervention converts’. Although many of those in this category seem to be those who were chosen before the foundation of the world to be the Lord’s prophets and leaders, I have witnessed that there are those who tend but a small corner in the Lord’s vineyard who may also have come unto to Jesus the Christ because of some sort of divine intervention. For every Moses and the Burning Bush, there are thousands whom God has touched in such a way that they spend their lives nurturing little children. For every Paul on the road to Damascus, there are thousands whom God has touched in such a way that they spend nights sleeping on hard ground dedicated to teaching sons and daughters important skills of life. For every Joseph in the Sacred Grove, there are thousands whom God has touched in such a way that they minister by giving of their lives and talents so that others are helped in their journey of coming unto Jesus the Christ. For every Mother Teresa in the streets of Calcutta, there are thousand whom God has touched in such a way that they endlessly kneel beside the afflicted and hold the hands of the sorrowing.

The group which probably has the largest population in my cataloguing of those who have come unto Jesus the Christ is the ‘believers on those who believe’ group. The group upon which this group put their foundation of belief is almost as large as the group itself. They may have built their belief upon the belief of a parent or a missionary or a friend, or a church leader or a Prophet or an Apostle etc. One thing we know for sure about this group is that if they don’t pay the price to build upon whatever stones make up their foundation by personal study and prayer they will shortly be found wandering and become one of the lost sheep.

There is one last group I want to reveal from the list in my mind, which could actually be categorized as one or two groups. The title I have given to this group is the ‘line upon line group’. The reason I identify two groups in this category is that some line upon liner’s are ones who simply want to continue to build by searching for a new stone to add to their library of belief, while others in this group when they find a new stone must first examine it in great detail before they cautiously add it to their library of belief. It is interesting that the two groups often find some fault with each others journey. The first group never understands why anyone would ever question or doubt a doctrine or principle, whereas, the second group has difficulty with the blindness and lack of understanding with which the first group accepts every word. I have a personal belief that no matter how our journey of coming unto Jesus the Christ begins all of us must become line upon liner’s if we are to have hope of enduring.

Returning to chapter 19 of the Book of Alma in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ and rereading the conversion stories of King Lamoni, his wife and one of the servants of the King named Abish we are reminded of the many mysterious ways in which the work and glory of Heavenly Father takes place during the process of His children coming unto Jesus the Christ.

King Lamoni is so overcome by the Spirit that he is presumed to be dead.

His wife is so impressed with Ammon that she recognizes him as a holy prophet of God.

Ammon bears witness of the conversion which is taking place with King Lamoni and of the cloud of darkness which is being removed.

King Lamoni has a vision of his Redeemer who will redeem all mankind.

Abish was converted to God because of the belief she had in a vision her father had received.

Abish recognized that what was happening was due to the power of God.

Ammon teaches the word and all who hears him are converted.

The people undergo a change in their hearts where they no longer have desire to do evil.

Although there are many who resist the invitation to come unto Jesus the Christ and even those who, once having grasped the rod lose their grip and turn away, Alma’s closing words in this chapter should always be remembered.

The Spirit of the Lord is poured out upon all of Heavenly Father’s children.

The Lord’s arm is extended to all of Heavenly Father’s people.

All of Heavenly Father’s children have need to believe on the name of Jesus the Christ and to repent.

As I come to the end of my pondering stimulated by this wonderful chapter in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ I feel impressed to include the following thoughts.

Like all the other differences which make us who we are as individuals, the path which we take in our journey as we strive to come unto Jesus the Christ will be unique.

We should never be intimidated nor feel inferior because our personal journey of belief seems less spectacular than that of a neighbor.

We should be confident that our Heavenly Father knows each of His children and therefore knows the stepping stones to put in their path to help them on their journey of coming unto Jesus the Christ.

We should avoid losing hope or condemning the path others may be taking in their journey of coming unto Jesus the Christ.

We must avoid in every way becoming a stumbling block to someone else’s journey.

We must gain the confidence that the Lord will bless us with the Holy Spirit to guide us in our journey.

I end this thought with a sincere prayer that each us will be led in such a way that our journey of coming unto Jesus the Christ will be full of the stepping stones which aid our personal conversion pattern.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The expression – ‘the show must go on’ – was undoubtedly uttered – by singers who never suffered laryngitis – or – dancers who have never suffered a broken leg!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It would be well to learn – confessions of sins – should be a private matter – and – hallowed as a personal privilege!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It would be well to learn – public confession of sins – should never be – part of the repentance process!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Even though it is often taught – that the Mercy of God cannot rob Justice – it is also true – that the Mercy of God is unrestrained – and – that the Justice of God is always Merciful!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

If we have ever questioned – whether the Mercy – and – Grace of God – will be withheld – from any of Heavenly Father’s children – we yet lack an understanding of the depth of His universal Love!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Jesus the Christ – although being sinless – had to go through the learning experience of the Atonement – where – He suffered for our sins – He vicariously came to know all sin – thereby adding to His perfection – of coming to know all things!!

SHEPHERDS AND MISSIONARIES

After Ammon separates from his brothers he enters into a portion of the Land of the Lamanites called the Land of Ismael which is ruled over by the son of the King of the Lamanites named Lamoni. (Alma 18)

Ammon’s personal mission report begins by relating a story of how he becomes a servant to Lamoni, is sent out to assist in guarding the king’s sheep and ends up disarming the thieves who attempt to scatter the flocks and steal them.

Three thoughts immediately entered my mind as I was reading once again these wondrous events which transpired at the beginning of his mission. First, all the young boys who are working their way through The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ for the first time are suddenly very attentive to what they are reading. Second, the line we used to use in Reno when slot machines had an arm which was pulled about this being the origin of one armed bandits, probably wouldn’t be understood by the present generation who are only acquainted with slot machines which have buttons to push. And third, is one of the reasons missionaries try to include something harrowing when they report their missions is because Ammon included this fantastic example?

Anyway, regardless of our own feelings about what took place at the beginning of Ammon’s mission, what happened as a result borders on the miraculous.

Lamoni is astonished at the physical power of Ammon.

Lamoni is amazed that Ammon has the power to discern his thoughts.

Lamoni begins to wonder if Ammon is the Great Spirit.

Lamoni is chagrined about having sent the Great Spirit to prepare the horses and chariot for a journey.

Lamoni becomes humble and teachable.

Although the names, events and places may change the process of becoming humble and teachable which leads to coming unto God always seem to remain the same.

An individual must come to the understanding that no matter how powerful they might be or what honor may have been bestowed upon them there exists a power greater than they are.

A person must come to the understanding that Heavenly Father calls and sets apart individuals to be shepherds.

A person must recognize that their understanding is elementary and that there is much more they do not understand.

A person must become sufficiently humble to accept the teachings brought to them by one of the Lord’s shepherds.

Anyone who has had the privilege of being called to tend a portion of the Lord’s flocks, quickly understands that of the components which exist in the dynamics of missionary work; the readiness of the person being taught, the provider of the word and the Holy Spirit, the least dynamic of these elements is the provider of the word.

No matter how prepared and learned the provider of the word is if the listener is not humbly prepared to be taught or if the Holy Spirit is not allowed to testify of the truthfulness of the words conversion will not happen.

Once all these components were in place Lamoni was ready to accept the words Ammon would teach and Ammon was able to begin to teach with boldness starting where Lamoni’s understanding was and then expanding that knowledge.

Ammon taught Lamoni that the Great Spirit he believed in was the very God who dwells in Heaven and who knows the thoughts and intents of all our hearts.

Ammon taught Lamoni about man being created in the image of God.

Ammon taught Lamoni that we come to know the truth when we are called to teach by the Holy Spirit and it is by that same Holy Spirit that we can come to know that which is just and true.

Ammon taught Lamoni about the creation of Adam and Eve and the fall of man from the presence of God.

Ammon taught Lamoni the words of the prophets from the holy scriptures.

Ammon taught Lamoni about the causes of the separation of the children of Lehi.

Ammon taught Lamoni the Plan of Redemption

Lamoni feels and understands the mercy of God.

Just as missionaries throughout the ages are very familiar with the process Ammon describes in Lamoni’s coming unto Christ and although the conversions we may witness during our lives may not be as dramatic and end as climatic as that of Lamoni’s the essential components and progression will seldom vary from the pattern found in this account.

I am impressed to emphasize one last time the absolute necessity of the readiness of the listener and the manifestation of the truth through the Holy Spirit, lest for some reason we fall into the trap of thinking our part was of great importance. All we need to remind us of our place is to reread the results of Moses taking credit for bringing water to the Israelites or David overvaluing his importance.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO + HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

I wonder when we are counting our blessings – if we should express our gratefulness for those who have helped us – become stronger in faith – love more abundantly – find joy in living peacefully – along with many other positive emotions – and – feelings??

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We must be careful – that our tolerance level – does not rise so high – that it drowns our ability to distinguish – right from wrong!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There are times – when the words we use in the church – cause confusion – when used in context – or – situations – outside of the church!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Once we start expressing our gratefulness – for our blessings – we will probably discover – more and more – how abundantly we have been blessed!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When our mountain of stuff – becomes so abundant – that worrying about it – hampers our happiness – it may definitely be time – to eliminate some of our things!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Since the seeds we plant – grow into the same type of plant – from which they came – why would we spend our days – sowing seeds of contention – and – hate??

SENT FORTH TO TEACH

There is no doubt every time I come to chapter 17 of the Book of Alma in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ my body has a jolt of pleasantness pass through it because of the anticipation of the joyful journey I will be taking as I search the mission report of Ammon, Aaron, Omni and Himni which is recorded in the next 10 chapters.

As I begin reading I am once again reminded of the great opportunity I missed by not using the example of these sons of King Mosiah as a powerful teaching moment when Kathleen and I had the privilege of serving as the leaders of the Colombia Bogota North mission.

If I could have another chance at teaching during one of those zone conferences I would use verses 2-18 of chapter 17 to teach the missionaries the following qualities which qualify us to go forth as one of the Lord’s missionaries:

Willing to forsake all (for these sons this included not becoming King)

Prepared themselves with the necessities of keeping safe

Inspired to go unto the Lamanites who lacked any understanding of the gospel

Went forth with the desire to bring the Lamanites unto redemption through repentance

Knew they were instruments in the hands of God

Were comforted by the Spirit

Finding joy in being in the brotherhood and sisterhood of the Lord

Diligently search the scripture to come to know the word of God

Giving oneself up to much prayer and fasting

Gaining the spirit of prophecy

Gaining the spirit of revelation

Teaching with power through the authority of God

Taught by example as well as the word

Were patient trusting in the Lord

Accepted long-suffering as part of their commission

Were endowed with courage

Were blessed and sent forth by one having authority (Ammon)

With hind sight being the ever great teacher, as I review the concepts just stated I would have had material for several Zone Conferences.

In the beginning of his book Teach Ye Diligently on pages two and three Elder Boyd K. Packer makes the following observations about members of the church and teaching:

Every member of the Church teaches virtually their whole lifetime

Whenever we are expounding on any doctrine in any place we are teaching

All who serve beginning with the Prophet of the Lord teach

The Church goes forward sustained by the power of the teaching that is accomplished

As he concludes his book Elder Packer, invokes the following blessings of God, given in the name of Him who died that we might live, the Son of God , the Redeemer of the world, Jesus the Christ, upon all who teach:

That He will quicken your understanding

That He will increase your wisdom

That He will enlighten you by experience

That He will bestow upon you patience

That He will bestow upon you charity

That He will endow you with the discernment of spirits

That He will give you entrance into the hearts of those who hear your words

That He will give you the knowledge that when you are in those hearts you stand in holy places

That He will give you the skill and power to teach righteousness

That He will give you the ability to foster in others the desire to grow greater every day

That He will bless you that your faith and testimonies increase

I add a few thoughts of my own which I hope will help us all to understand, when all is said and done, it is really impossible for us to escape being teachers:

I am teaching when I show joy through smiles

I am teaching when I show skills through demonstration

I am teaching when I show service through example

I am teaching when I show respect though reverence

I am teaching when I show faith through obedience

I am teaching when I show duty through diligence

I am teaching when I show love through caring and serving

There is little doubt that we have been given sufficient instructions, examples, blessings and understanding to enlighten us with the knowledge that it will never be a matter of whether we will be teaching during our lives, the question is what and how will we teach.

May the Lord bless us continually that we will have His Holy Spirit to guide, inspire and aid us in our daily walk of being teachers.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

THINK + PREPARE + DO + PEACE + JOY + LOVE + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE