This lesson is all about the ability to grow and develop into our best selves...as our Heavenly Father would have us do.
It is easy to understand when we consider our own relationship with the people we care for. We love them, and hope the best of life and happiness for them. We also know that true happiness comes with planning, work, service and sacrifice.
We also know and believe that these concepts are eternal... meaning that when we leave this life, we will continue on our journey of development and growth according to our desire and efforts. Did you catch that... according to our desire and efforts part?
This is for me the most wonderful indication of how much God loves every one of us, and really wants for us what we want for ourselves.
There are different levels of glory prepared for us where we can be happy according the true desire of our hearts.
In 1st Corinthians chapter 15:40-42,the Apostle Paul named two of the kingdoms in heaven: the celestial and the terrestrial. The celestial is the highest, and the terrestrial is second. Paul mentioned in 2 Corinthians 12:2 that he knew of a man who was “caught up to the third heaven”.
Through latter-day revelation we learn that the third kingdom is the telestial kingdom (see D&C 76:81).
It makes sense that there is more than a heaven and a hell... because there is more to us as a people than the uber righteous and the dammed...there are different degrees of where we will be with eternity.
The choices we make now are the indication of what we value, and will thereby be our reward.
Imagine what joy each of us will have when we return to our Heavenly Father if we can say: “Father, I lived according to Thy will. I have been faithful and have kept Thy commandments. I am happy to be home again.”
Then we will hear Him say, “Well done … ; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:23).
Which is why I must now be faithful over my few things.... and fulfill my own chosen destiny of nurturing Kimberly and cleaning this house before the ruler of our home gets home and inquires about dinner...:D
Cynthia
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Sunday School*God is Love*1st John 1-5
Our Sunday School lesson was prepared and taught by Kim who began by sharing one of her family portraits with the class.
She asked us to think about some of the ways that parents show love for their children, and how do children show love for their parents, brothers, and sisters?
Our earthly family unit helps us to understand our relationship with God, our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ our brother.
The class participation was insightful as Dave commented that we are already the children of God, but when we choose to keep the covenants we've made with Him, we become spiritually begotten of Him.
Diana mentioned the struggle it is as a parent to allow children to suffer a bit as they grow and develop.
Kim's husband (and sometimes her substitute teacher that she appreciates) talked about the importance of communication with Heavenly Father and that our prayers be genuine and sincere, not just going through the technical motions.
Dave said that we Love God, because HE first loved us, and we show that love by keeping the commandments.
She asked us to think about some of the ways that parents show love for their children, and how do children show love for their parents, brothers, and sisters?
Our earthly family unit helps us to understand our relationship with God, our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ our brother.
The class participation was insightful as Dave commented that we are already the children of God, but when we choose to keep the covenants we've made with Him, we become spiritually begotten of Him.
Diana mentioned the struggle it is as a parent to allow children to suffer a bit as they grow and develop.
Kim's husband (and sometimes her substitute teacher that she appreciates) talked about the importance of communication with Heavenly Father and that our prayers be genuine and sincere, not just going through the technical motions.
Dave said that we Love God, because HE first loved us, and we show that love by keeping the commandments.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
The Wolf You Choose to Feed
Relief Society was taught this past Sunday by Barbara, the wife of our dear Stake Patriarch. It was lesson number 46, 'The Final Judgment' from the study manual Gospel Principles.
Well, okay, I had not attended RS for a few weeks, and very much missed all these wonderful sisters and was in the fun mood of catching up with some chit -chat .
However, as soon as Barbara began her teaching, the Holy Ghost was able to be with our little class and was quite strong....and I was filled with the ability of focus as my mind and spirit understood the truth of what the Savior would have us to understand about the 'final judgment' and how that applies to us individually.
So, because of that sweet peace that came upon me, I initially forgot to take notes ...yep. Sorry. It was good stuff though.. :)
When I finally got a grip and started writing this is some of what was shared:
We know of course that it is critical that we control our thoughts...as our words, feelings and actions are the harvest of those very thoughts we choose.
It is promoted by some that our thoughts control us... and that we have no power to steer our destiny. It is a false notion and will lead to weakness and despair.
In reality, every day is a day of judgment. We think, speak and act according to the desire of our hearts. Our faith in Jesus Christ, as shown by our daily actions, determines what we will inherit.
"Put the mental brakes on" Barbara advised. We must have in mental reserve a scripture or song that we can access at once which brings us back to the reality of things as they really are .... so that we are not deceived by whatever our own current struggle or temptation may be enticing us to think and do.
CS Lewis, that awesome English chap who wrote the Chronicles of Narnia said the following: "Active habits are strengthened by repetition... and passive ones are weakened.."
(So then, what habit will I myself choose to be repeated, and thereby be made strong?
I think I will choose the habit of being uber patient and steadfast as I am thinking the best of others and myself...therein creating a positive cycle of wellness.)
So then, Barbara told the story of the Two Wolves which gives a great visual of the internal process we struggle with every day.
In an effort to understand his feelings he went to his grandfather for guidance.
Grandfather listened intently and with love told his grandson about the battle of two strong wolves.
He said, "There is a daily battle which is inside us all....
One wolf is Evil.
It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity,
guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.
The other wolf is Good.
It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence,
empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."
The grandson, who was truly concerned by this image of conflict thought for a moment and then asked his grandfather:
Which wolf wins?'
The old Cherokee simply replied, 'The one you feed.'
I did share this story last night with our family and it was well received. I hope I was able to capture a bit of this lovely learning moment to share with y'all as well.
Cynthia
Well, okay, I had not attended RS for a few weeks, and very much missed all these wonderful sisters and was in the fun mood of catching up with some chit -chat .
However, as soon as Barbara began her teaching, the Holy Ghost was able to be with our little class and was quite strong....and I was filled with the ability of focus as my mind and spirit understood the truth of what the Savior would have us to understand about the 'final judgment' and how that applies to us individually.
So, because of that sweet peace that came upon me, I initially forgot to take notes ...yep. Sorry. It was good stuff though.. :)
When I finally got a grip and started writing this is some of what was shared:
We know of course that it is critical that we control our thoughts...as our words, feelings and actions are the harvest of those very thoughts we choose.
It is promoted by some that our thoughts control us... and that we have no power to steer our destiny. It is a false notion and will lead to weakness and despair.
In reality, every day is a day of judgment. We think, speak and act according to the desire of our hearts. Our faith in Jesus Christ, as shown by our daily actions, determines what we will inherit.
"Put the mental brakes on" Barbara advised. We must have in mental reserve a scripture or song that we can access at once which brings us back to the reality of things as they really are .... so that we are not deceived by whatever our own current struggle or temptation may be enticing us to think and do.
CS Lewis, that awesome English chap who wrote the Chronicles of Narnia said the following: "Active habits are strengthened by repetition... and passive ones are weakened.."
(So then, what habit will I myself choose to be repeated, and thereby be made strong?
I think I will choose the habit of being uber patient and steadfast as I am thinking the best of others and myself...therein creating a positive cycle of wellness.)
So then, Barbara told the story of the Two Wolves which gives a great visual of the internal process we struggle with every day.
The Two Wolves
A young Indian brave who had been treated poorly was filled with bitterness which consumed him. In an effort to understand his feelings he went to his grandfather for guidance.
Grandfather listened intently and with love told his grandson about the battle of two strong wolves.
He said, "There is a daily battle which is inside us all....
One wolf is Evil.
It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity,
guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.
The other wolf is Good.
It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence,
empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."
The grandson, who was truly concerned by this image of conflict thought for a moment and then asked his grandfather:
Which wolf wins?'
The old Cherokee simply replied, 'The one you feed.'
I did share this story last night with our family and it was well received. I hope I was able to capture a bit of this lovely learning moment to share with y'all as well.
Cynthia
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Jesus Christ
Acts 21-28
This lesson is all about testifying of Jesus Christ. This is a tender subject and one that people all over the world debate about. How does one feel about Him and how the daily thoughts and actions are influenced by His teachings have a variety of results.
One personal account is by our teacher today, Jennie. She recalled about the time when she was young and at a party with cheerleaders and football players.
One of the kids asked Jennie if she would give a prayer on the food. She felt self conscious at once because as an LDS young woman, she had been taught to end prayer with the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
She had heard the prayers given at other times, and knew they did not end in the same way. In a split second she had to decide if she would take that opportunity to testify of Him and risk being mocked, or if she would just say Amen, and nobody would notice.
That is, nobody but the Savior that is.
Jennie was pleased and with relief could say that even though her little heart was pounding and that she was flushed, she did choose to acknowledge Jesus Christ is this simple sweet moment of giving thanks for the food.
We know that the desire to do right and the humility of little children can lead us.....and little Jennie surrounded by her peers is no different than that of King Agrippa and Festus when Paul bore testimony of Jesus Christ. They were more concerned with the opinion of others than the opinion of He who matters most.
I hope I can do as well as Paul, Joseph Smith, and Jennie.. : )
This lesson is all about testifying of Jesus Christ. This is a tender subject and one that people all over the world debate about. How does one feel about Him and how the daily thoughts and actions are influenced by His teachings have a variety of results.
One personal account is by our teacher today, Jennie. She recalled about the time when she was young and at a party with cheerleaders and football players.
One of the kids asked Jennie if she would give a prayer on the food. She felt self conscious at once because as an LDS young woman, she had been taught to end prayer with the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
She had heard the prayers given at other times, and knew they did not end in the same way. In a split second she had to decide if she would take that opportunity to testify of Him and risk being mocked, or if she would just say Amen, and nobody would notice.
That is, nobody but the Savior that is.
Jennie was pleased and with relief could say that even though her little heart was pounding and that she was flushed, she did choose to acknowledge Jesus Christ is this simple sweet moment of giving thanks for the food.
We know that the desire to do right and the humility of little children can lead us.....and little Jennie surrounded by her peers is no different than that of King Agrippa and Festus when Paul bore testimony of Jesus Christ. They were more concerned with the opinion of others than the opinion of He who matters most.
I hope I can do as well as Paul, Joseph Smith, and Jennie.. : )
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Sunday School Lessons 25 and 26
Well, regarding lesson 25, I cannot find the notes that I took from Jennie's lesson... but when I do, I will most certainly post them ..: )
Lesson 26 was given by Kim, and I was able to take a few notes this day.
It was about Jesus preparing to leave the Garden of Gethsemane and his betrayal by Judas, and the thrice denial of Peter and the subsequent Crucifixion..
This lesson is so sacred, it was a daunting task for Kim to prepare and give I am sure, and on her first day no less. Our prayers were with her, and Dave gave a beautiful opening prayer which really invited the Spirit to attend with us...
The first recorded mortal words of the Savior were "I must be about my Father's business..." in Luke 2:49.
Among His final recorded words he spoke.."It is finished" as recorded in John.
We can see that Jesus never lost sight of the mission that was uniquely His to perform on our behalf.
All of humanity and all that is living is a testimony to His sacrifice of love and obedience.
Lesson 26 was given by Kim, and I was able to take a few notes this day.
It was about Jesus preparing to leave the Garden of Gethsemane and his betrayal by Judas, and the thrice denial of Peter and the subsequent Crucifixion..
This lesson is so sacred, it was a daunting task for Kim to prepare and give I am sure, and on her first day no less. Our prayers were with her, and Dave gave a beautiful opening prayer which really invited the Spirit to attend with us...
The first recorded mortal words of the Savior were "I must be about my Father's business..." in Luke 2:49.
Among His final recorded words he spoke.."It is finished" as recorded in John.
We can see that Jesus never lost sight of the mission that was uniquely His to perform on our behalf.
All of humanity and all that is living is a testimony to His sacrifice of love and obedience.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Lesson 23; Love One Another
A New Commandment
Jennie began our lesson today with the song 'Love One Another' ...which is from the scripture found in the book of John, chapter 13:34.
(I have put the link to this song at the end of these notes if you would like to have a listen.. : )
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
This Do In Remembrance
We now read from Luke chapter 22:19-20
19. And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
20. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
Jennie inquired why we should take the Sacrament..?
Aaron said that because it was commanded of us. Denise said because it is a time to reflect and improve upon ourselves.
Jim commented that taking the Sacrament weekly is a reminder of what we believe.
Jennie said that it is not a passive habit, but a commitment.
And then I shared about a time when I was in my early 20's and because of living overseas my paperwork regarding my baptism had been lost with whoever was keeping track of the records at that time. I was going to need to be re baptized, and frankly I was thrilled to get a clean slate and a fresh start so to speak. During the process of this, my initial paperwork was found and I was disappointed and told my bishop so. He was so wise and reminded me that I did not need to be re baptized every time I wanted to start over. Repentance if necessary and the weekly taking of the bread and water during the Sacrament was the renewal of the covenant of taking upon myself the name of Christ.
Jennie challenged us to take the sacrament on Sunday with the goal in mind of reflecting upon our lives, and how we might improve for the following week.
Washing of the Feet
In John, chapter 13..the first 20 verses is about Jesus doing a sacred act of service for his disciples.
He gets a basin of water, and a towel, and then proceeds to wash and dry their feet.
Peter is not pleased and wants to know why the Lord should be doing this for him. Jesus responds "If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me." and then Peter says " Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head."
So, even though he did not fully understand what this ordinance meant, if it would bring him closer to the Savior, Peter understood enough that he wanted all that he could have which would give him a part with the Lord ... : )
Verse 17 is wonderful because it tells us in a clear and simple way that if we are serving one another, we will achieve happiness..."If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them."
Denelle said that sharing produce from her garden has brought her family a happiness with their neighbors...and has taught her children the beginning of the concept as well.
The Way
In John's chapter 14 we next learn of Thomas and his desire to be where Jesus will be, and wants to know how to get to Jesus as He talks about preparing a mansion for them.
Kirk made a point when he suggested that Thomas wanted the literal path and directions.
Still in chapter 14 of John vs 6 we read about Jesus and his statement about gaining access to the Father...
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Jennie inquired why was it through Jesus that He is 'the only way'...?
Dave said that the scriptures tell us that no unclean thing can enter into the kingdom of God, and that it was through the atonement of the Savior that we can be clean...and then dwell again with God.
We have only one more concept that Jennie covered...and it's pretty cool.
The True Vine
In John's chapter 15 we are taught that Jesus is the Vine, the Father is the husbandman/gardener and that we are the branches.
Essentially, the branch that is attached to the vine and not producing is taken away and burned. The branch that is producing fruit is purged so it can continue to bring forth more of the good fruit.
It seems like I remember a few years ago Bishop Henriksen sharing a story of when he himself was a young man and was contemplating how devoted he wanted to be to the work of the Lord, and that when he read this chapter, he clearly realized how this applied to his life, and that he did not want to be a useless branch only to be cast off.
The timing of when we heard this was about a year after my husband had been baptized and was also wondering about how devout he wanted to be in this work of the Lord's.
As we can see, both of them have decided to be good and strong branches...: ) whew.. ; ) yay for our ward, and yay for me too....!
Next week is lesson 24 and if you would like to read John chapters 16 and 17 you will be ready to enjoy the wonderful lesson regarding the Lord's teaching of the Comforter being given to us, and the prayers He offered in the Garden which atoned for the sins of all of the children of God.
the song 'Love One Another'
http://lds.org/churchmusic/detailmusicPlayer/index.html?searchlanguage=1&searchcollection=1&searchseqstart=308&searchsubseqstart= &searchseqend=308&searchsubseqend=ZZZ
Jennie began our lesson today with the song 'Love One Another' ...which is from the scripture found in the book of John, chapter 13:34.
(I have put the link to this song at the end of these notes if you would like to have a listen.. : )
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
This Do In Remembrance
We now read from Luke chapter 22:19-20
19. And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
20. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
Jennie inquired why we should take the Sacrament..?
Aaron said that because it was commanded of us. Denise said because it is a time to reflect and improve upon ourselves.
Jim commented that taking the Sacrament weekly is a reminder of what we believe.
Jennie said that it is not a passive habit, but a commitment.
And then I shared about a time when I was in my early 20's and because of living overseas my paperwork regarding my baptism had been lost with whoever was keeping track of the records at that time. I was going to need to be re baptized, and frankly I was thrilled to get a clean slate and a fresh start so to speak. During the process of this, my initial paperwork was found and I was disappointed and told my bishop so. He was so wise and reminded me that I did not need to be re baptized every time I wanted to start over. Repentance if necessary and the weekly taking of the bread and water during the Sacrament was the renewal of the covenant of taking upon myself the name of Christ.
Jennie challenged us to take the sacrament on Sunday with the goal in mind of reflecting upon our lives, and how we might improve for the following week.
Washing of the Feet
In John, chapter 13..the first 20 verses is about Jesus doing a sacred act of service for his disciples.
He gets a basin of water, and a towel, and then proceeds to wash and dry their feet.
Peter is not pleased and wants to know why the Lord should be doing this for him. Jesus responds "If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me." and then Peter says " Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head."
So, even though he did not fully understand what this ordinance meant, if it would bring him closer to the Savior, Peter understood enough that he wanted all that he could have which would give him a part with the Lord ... : )
Verse 17 is wonderful because it tells us in a clear and simple way that if we are serving one another, we will achieve happiness..."If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them."
Denelle said that sharing produce from her garden has brought her family a happiness with their neighbors...and has taught her children the beginning of the concept as well.
The Way
In John's chapter 14 we next learn of Thomas and his desire to be where Jesus will be, and wants to know how to get to Jesus as He talks about preparing a mansion for them.
Kirk made a point when he suggested that Thomas wanted the literal path and directions.
Still in chapter 14 of John vs 6 we read about Jesus and his statement about gaining access to the Father...
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Jennie inquired why was it through Jesus that He is 'the only way'...?
Dave said that the scriptures tell us that no unclean thing can enter into the kingdom of God, and that it was through the atonement of the Savior that we can be clean...and then dwell again with God.
We have only one more concept that Jennie covered...and it's pretty cool.
The True Vine
In John's chapter 15 we are taught that Jesus is the Vine, the Father is the husbandman/gardener and that we are the branches.
Essentially, the branch that is attached to the vine and not producing is taken away and burned. The branch that is producing fruit is purged so it can continue to bring forth more of the good fruit.
It seems like I remember a few years ago Bishop Henriksen sharing a story of when he himself was a young man and was contemplating how devoted he wanted to be to the work of the Lord, and that when he read this chapter, he clearly realized how this applied to his life, and that he did not want to be a useless branch only to be cast off.
The timing of when we heard this was about a year after my husband had been baptized and was also wondering about how devout he wanted to be in this work of the Lord's.
As we can see, both of them have decided to be good and strong branches...: ) whew.. ; ) yay for our ward, and yay for me too....!
Next week is lesson 24 and if you would like to read John chapters 16 and 17 you will be ready to enjoy the wonderful lesson regarding the Lord's teaching of the Comforter being given to us, and the prayers He offered in the Garden which atoned for the sins of all of the children of God.
the song 'Love One Another'
http://lds.org/churchmusic/detailmusicPlayer/index.html?searchlanguage=1&searchcollection=1&searchseqstart=308&searchsubseqstart= &searchseqend=308&searchsubseqend=ZZZ
Monday, June 27, 2011
Lesson 22
:)Hello...
The Sunday School lesson on June 26 was taught by Jennie and she will be team teaching with Kim.
We learned about three parables in the Book of Matthew, chapter 25.
Jesus teaches the Ten virgins, Sharing our talents, and The sheep and goats.
The Ten Virgins
the wedding: the 2nd Coming of the Savior
the brides/virgins: the believers
the oil: being prepared
the groom: The Savior
We really had some wonderful comments from the class that have stayed with me, and I'm pleased to share with you.
Gwen shared about how as much as we would like to be prepared for the others as well as ourselves, it cannot be done. Everyone has to do this for themselves.
Sue felt it was important to know and recognize the signs of His coming.
Rick said something that John and I hadn't thought of, and we used his comment for our family night this evening. It is that all the brides were prepared for what they thought was the expected wait. But it was only the ones who had enough saved in addition that were prepared for the unexpected event of the groom having tarried before arriving to the wedding...
We have applied this to our lives, and John was reflective about it as he had previously thought we were 'doing enough' .... and sometimes felt self conscious compared to those who are doing nothing at all. He has decided for our family to do a bit more, and add to the oil in our lamp for 'just in case'.
Jennie taught about this very thing, and suggested that it is 'drop by drop' that we fill our lamps, and asked that we consider what we might do towards that goal.
Sharing our Talents
Aaron said that the talents which the Lord gave us are specifically made for our individual good and blessing. He said we should do our best with what is given, and not to concern ourselves with the talents given to another.
Megan agreed and suggested that He wants to see what we will do with our talents as we grow and serve others.
Jeri commented that Faith is required as we take initial steps in this direction.
Rick gave us all a chuckle when he suggested we all need to resist the impulse to be lazy and fearful...: )
Jennie then guided the class in what some gifts might be that we may have.
The latin phrase of "gnothi seauton" means "Know Thyself"
which Ben Franklin said is very hard to do, and compared it to being as hard as a diamond or steel. Ralph Waldo Emerson even wrote a poem by the same name in 1831 as we recognize the blessings of God within ourselves.
It takes prayer and pondering to identify what is unique for our personality and what talent could be developed for our good and service for another.
A talent could even be a weakness needing to be redirected with His help. For example, pride could be redirected as the strength.
The Sheep and Goats
What is the meaning of deciding the worth of these two animals as they compare to each other?
David and Carolina said that both critters 'knew' what was expected, but it was the sheep who heeded and obeyed. The goats could not be counted on to do the right thing, which lessens their value to the Master.
Good point. I know that I appreciate and value the critters on my land who listen and obey much more than those who are just doing their own thing.
Thanks to Jennie for sharing her talent of teaching and encouraging a learning environment wherein the class felt secure in sharing and growing in the gospel.
Here is the link to the one of the most beautiful hymns and which was suggested for our lesson: A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief
I love this song because it was the first time I wept from a hymn, and was a rebellious teenager no less....: )
http://lds.org/churchmusic/detailmusicPlayer/index.html?searchlanguage=1&searchcollection=1&searchseqstart=29&searchsubseqstart= &searchseqend=29&searchsubseqend=ZZZ
Next week, lesson 23 is "Love One Another, As I have Love You"
If you have a moment, consider reading these 4 chapters so you can better enjoy the lesson and discussion. Luke chapter 22 and John chapters 13-15.
http://www.answers.com/topic/gnothi-seauton
The Sunday School lesson on June 26 was taught by Jennie and she will be team teaching with Kim.
We learned about three parables in the Book of Matthew, chapter 25.
Jesus teaches the Ten virgins, Sharing our talents, and The sheep and goats.
The Ten Virgins
the wedding: the 2nd Coming of the Savior
the brides/virgins: the believers
the oil: being prepared
the groom: The Savior
We really had some wonderful comments from the class that have stayed with me, and I'm pleased to share with you.
Gwen shared about how as much as we would like to be prepared for the others as well as ourselves, it cannot be done. Everyone has to do this for themselves.
Sue felt it was important to know and recognize the signs of His coming.
Rick said something that John and I hadn't thought of, and we used his comment for our family night this evening. It is that all the brides were prepared for what they thought was the expected wait. But it was only the ones who had enough saved in addition that were prepared for the unexpected event of the groom having tarried before arriving to the wedding...
We have applied this to our lives, and John was reflective about it as he had previously thought we were 'doing enough' .... and sometimes felt self conscious compared to those who are doing nothing at all. He has decided for our family to do a bit more, and add to the oil in our lamp for 'just in case'.
Jennie taught about this very thing, and suggested that it is 'drop by drop' that we fill our lamps, and asked that we consider what we might do towards that goal.
Sharing our Talents
Aaron said that the talents which the Lord gave us are specifically made for our individual good and blessing. He said we should do our best with what is given, and not to concern ourselves with the talents given to another.
Megan agreed and suggested that He wants to see what we will do with our talents as we grow and serve others.
Jeri commented that Faith is required as we take initial steps in this direction.
Rick gave us all a chuckle when he suggested we all need to resist the impulse to be lazy and fearful...: )
Jennie then guided the class in what some gifts might be that we may have.
The latin phrase of "gnothi seauton" means "Know Thyself"
which Ben Franklin said is very hard to do, and compared it to being as hard as a diamond or steel. Ralph Waldo Emerson even wrote a poem by the same name in 1831 as we recognize the blessings of God within ourselves.
It takes prayer and pondering to identify what is unique for our personality and what talent could be developed for our good and service for another.
A talent could even be a weakness needing to be redirected with His help. For example, pride could be redirected as the strength.
The Sheep and Goats
What is the meaning of deciding the worth of these two animals as they compare to each other?
David and Carolina said that both critters 'knew' what was expected, but it was the sheep who heeded and obeyed. The goats could not be counted on to do the right thing, which lessens their value to the Master.
Good point. I know that I appreciate and value the critters on my land who listen and obey much more than those who are just doing their own thing.
Thanks to Jennie for sharing her talent of teaching and encouraging a learning environment wherein the class felt secure in sharing and growing in the gospel.
Here is the link to the one of the most beautiful hymns and which was suggested for our lesson: A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief
I love this song because it was the first time I wept from a hymn, and was a rebellious teenager no less....: )
http://lds.org/churchmusic/detailmusicPlayer/index.html?searchlanguage=1&searchcollection=1&searchseqstart=29&searchsubseqstart= &searchseqend=29&searchsubseqend=ZZZ
Next week, lesson 23 is "Love One Another, As I have Love You"
If you have a moment, consider reading these 4 chapters so you can better enjoy the lesson and discussion. Luke chapter 22 and John chapters 13-15.
http://www.answers.com/topic/gnothi-seauton
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