053124, Friday, Journal Entry

 Vitals:  Weight 229.2

Book of Mormon Review Reading: Jacob 2

Journal Entry:

I'm not doing a very good job of saving these Journal entries apparently. I'm having a tough time right now because of the mostly constant pain I'm in. See tomorrow's Journal Entry for as much catching up as I can remember.

Come Follow Me 

Alma the younger:

Mosiah 27: 29 My soul hath been redeemed from the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity. I was in the darkest abyss; but now I behold the marvelous light of God. My soul was racked with eternal torment; but I am snatched, and my soul is pained no more.

30 I rejected my Redeemer, and denied that which had been spoken of by our fathers; but now that they may foresee that he will come, and that he remembereth every creature of his creating, he will make himself manifest unto all.

"Transgression brings pain and sorrow. But there is a way out of “the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity.” If we will turn to the Lord and believe on His name, we can change. He will give us the power to change our lives, the power to put away bad thoughts and feelings from our hearts. We can be taken from “the darkest abyss” to “behold the marvelous light of God.” We can be forgiven. We can find peace."

President James E. Faust (1920–2007), Second Counselor in the First Presidency

 President Faust prepared this article in the months before his passing on August 10, 2007.

"The power to change is very real, and it is a great spiritual gift from God."

053024, Thursday, Journal Entry

Vitals:  Weight 230.5

Book of Mormon Review Reading: Jacob 1

Journal Entry:

I slept poorly and woke up in some pain. Not sure why. But the effects of my shot are less positive today than yesterday. It was a beautifying day today and we walked at Rock Canyon Park. Cathy went to the Bishops Storehouse as scheduled but I stayed home because of pain.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 27: 16 Now I say unto thee: Go, and remember the captivity of thy fathers in the land of Helam, and in the land of Nephi; and remember how great things he has done for them; for they were in bondage, and he has delivered them. And now I say unto thee, Alma, go thy way, and seek to destroy the church no more, that their prayers may be answered, and this even if thou wilt of thyself be cast off.

"With “a voice of thunder,” the angel chastised Alma for persecuting the Church and “stealing away the hearts of the people.” The angel added this admonition: “Go, and remember the captivity of thy fathers … ; and remember how great things [God] has done for them.” Of all possible exhortations, that was what the angel emphasized…

Few of us have an experience as dramatic as Alma’s, yet our transformation can be equally profound."

Elder Dale G. Renlund Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2020

052924, Wednesday, Journal Entry

 Vitals:  Weight 225.5,   BP 129/78

Book of Mormon Review Reading: 2 Nephi 33

Journal Entry:

I got my steroid shot yesterday and had almost no pain for the rest of the day. I went to bed last night taking no passion needs and spoke this morning with no pain. We took our car back to the body shop after calling and verifying that the additional parts were in. We got there just after 0800 and then walked to Beth's house where we borrowed her car again. The distance is just short of three miles. We picked up our repaired car at about noon and it seems to be finally done and working properly. 

Went to Guru's for lunch then came home tired.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 26:29 Therefore I say unto you, Go; and whosoever transgresseth against me, him shall ye judge according to the sins which he has committed; and if he confess his sins before thee and me, and repenteth in the sincerity of his heart, him shall ye forgive, and I will forgive him also.

30 Yea, and as often as my people repent will I forgive them their trespasses against me.

31 And ye shall also forgive one another your trespasses; for verily I say unto you, he that forgiveth not his neighbor’s trespasses when he says that he repents, the same hath brought himself under condemnation.

"When we sincerely repent, no spiritual scar remains, no matter what we have done, how serious it was, or how many times we repeated it. As often as we repent and seek forgiveness with real intent, we can be forgiven. What a remarkable gift from our Savior, Jesus Christ! The Holy Ghost can assure us that we have been forgiven. As we sense joy and peace, guilt is swept away, and we are no longer tormented by our sin."

Elder Dale G. Renlund Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2022

What a great blessing is repentance!

052824, Tuesday, Journal Entry

Vitals:  Weight 226.1,  BP 136/84, standing 92/71

Book of Mormon Review Reading: 2 Nephi 32

Journal Entry:

For the first time in weeks, I slept through the night last night without significant pain. My sleep app on my phone reported that I slept for six hours and 15 minutes. That's the first time I've recorded over six hours in a long time. I'm scheduled for a steroid shot today for pain relief but I'm thinking I'll cancel that for now. I still have an appointment in a week or so for physical therapy and I'm thinking that might be good to keep that option going. Anyway, I'm very pleased with my health right now. Prayers seem to have been answered very dramatically and I am grateful for that.

We have Bishops Storehouse duty today that I was going to pass on but I think I'd better go ahead and go.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 26: 18 Yea, blessed is this people who are willing to bear my name; for in my name shall they be called; and they are mine.

"Our willingness to take upon us the name of Christ is more than a formal exchange of words. It is not a passive promise or a cultural contrivance. It is not a rite of passage or a name tag that we wear. It is not a saying that we simply place on a shelf or hang on a wall. 

Can it be said and written of us that we are true disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ? Do we honor the name of Jesus Christ that we have willingly taken upon ourselves?"

Lisa L. Harkness, First Counselor in the Primary General Presidency, October 2019

We try!

052724, Memorial Day (Monday), Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 227.2

Book of Mormon Review Reading: 2 Nephi 31

Journal Entry:

We enjoyed a quiet Sabbath Day together. The Priesthood/Relief Society lessons were well presented and were about Elder Soares general conference talk having to do with confidence in God's teachings and in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Come Follow Me 

 Mosiah 25:10 And again, when they thought of the immediate goodness of God, and his power in delivering Alma and his brethren out of the hands of the Lamanites and of bondage, they did raise their voices and give thanks to God.

"The immediate goodness of God comes to all who call upon Him with real intent and full purpose of heart. This includes those who cry out in earnest desperation, when deliverance seems so distant and suffering seems prolonged, even intensified."

Elder Kyle S. McKay Of the Seventy

"Even while we are patiently waiting upon the Lord, there are certain blessings that come to us immediately."

Mosiah 24:15-16

 15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.

 16 And it came to pass that so great was their faith and their patience that the voice of the Lord came unto them again, saying: “Be of good comfort, for on the morrow I will deliver you out of bondage.”

052624, Sunday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 227.7

Book of Mormon Review Reading: 2 Nephi 30

Journal Entry:

It rained all day yesterday and it was pretty cold outside. We had breakfast at home then drove to University Place Mall and walked indoors there for awhile. Then we came home and sort of relaxed the rest of the day.

Today and tomorrow will also be pretty quiet for us. It's Memorial Day Weekend and we have nothing planned. Jake and his family are driving up to Yellowstone area for a few days. I pretty much enjoy the peace and quiet of not having much to do but Cathy likes to celebrate holidays with family or friends so she's a little, but only a little, unsettled by just being home alone with me this weekend. It helps that the weather is cold and rainy but I feel a little badly for her. Come Tuesday it will all be behind us though.

I've gone back and am rereading the Book of Mormon as a review of earlier studies. In that mode I just finished 2 Nephi Chapter 30, and will continue from there. I'm still on schedule in the Book of Mosiah as well. Basically I'm reading the Book of Mormon on the Come Follow Me current study and also rereading it a second time. I've got plenty of time so why not?

Among Nephi’s last recorded words, we find this declaration: “The Lord commanded me, and I must obey” (2 Nephi 33:15). This is a good summary of Nephi’s life. He tried to understand the will of God and courageously obeyed it—whether that meant risking his life to get the brass plates from Laban, building a boat and crossing the sea, or faithfully teaching the doctrine of Christ with plainness and power. Nephi could speak persuasively of the need to “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ,” of following the “strait and narrow path which leads to eternal life” (2 Nephi 31:20, 18), because that is the path he followed. He knew by experience that this path, though demanding at times, is also joyful, and that “there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God” (2 Nephi 31:21). Among Nephi’s last recorded words, we find this declaration: “The Lord commanded me, and I must obey” (2 Nephi 33:15). This is a good summary of Nephi’s life. He tried to understand the will of God and courageously obeyed it—whether that meant risking his life to get the brass plates from Laban, building a boat and crossing the sea, or faithfully teaching the doctrine of Christ with plainness and power. Nephi could speak persuasively of the need to “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ,” of following the “strait and narrow path which leads to eternal life” (2 Nephi 31:20, 18), because that is the path he followed. He knew by experience that this path, though demanding at times, is also joyful, and that “there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God” (2 Nephi 31:21).

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 24: 15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.

21 Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God.

22 And they gave thanks to God, yea, all their men and all their women and all their children that could speak lifted their voices in the praises of their God.

"The sad irony is that, too often, those most in need turn away from their one perfect source of help—our Savior, Jesus Christ.

...[W]e are also invited and encouraged to look to the Savior and live—for His yoke is easy and His burden is light, even when ours may be heavy...

Dealing with the challenges of life is not about ignoring reality but rather where we choose to focus and the foundation upon which we choose to build."

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell, Second Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric, October 2017

Alma 26:12 Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever.

"We can partner with the Savior to help provide temporal and spiritual relief for those in need—and in the process find our own relief."

President Camille N. Johnso, Relief Society General President, April 2023

052524, Saturday,Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 228.1

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 29

Journal Entry:

Yesterday turned out to be somewhat trying. When we got our car back from the body shop, after about a block of driving the warning shown in the photo, "Grille Shutter Inoperative. Visit Your Dealer", appeared on our dashboard. So we scheduled a visit back to the body shop for yesterday and I made arrangements to borrow my sister's car. So we dropped off our car and went to breakfast with Beth and also Craig and Andrea at Aubergine Kitchen. Victor from the body shop texted me saying the part should be in soon and we would be and to pick the car up later in the day. Perfect!? Not so.

A little later, Victor texted again saying that there was a bar across the front of our car that was bent due to some previous collision and that that bar would have to be replaced before the grille shutter would function properly. This bar, since someone decided was damaged in a separate collision and therefore not covered by our current settlement, would have to be ordered and installed at our additional expense.

I was disturbed because there was no way that damaged occurred in a separate collision because there has never been a separate collision. After explaining all of this to Victor and to the insurance adjuster, and after going to the Provo police department and paying for a copy of the police report, they finally agreed that all of the damage was from one collision and agreed to fix everything for no additional cost to us. But, that can't be done until next Wednesday. So they reassembled our car and we took Beth's car back to her and we went home having accomplished basically nothing.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 24: 12 And Alma and his people did not raise their voices to the Lord their God, but did pour out their hearts to him; and he did know the thoughts of their hearts.

13 And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.

14 And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.

15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.

"Those covenant keepers received relief in the form of comfort, increased patience and cheerfulness, an ease in their burdens so that they felt light, and ultimately deliverance.

Jesus Christ is relief...The relief He offers us is everlasting."

President Camille N. Johnson, Relief Society General President, April 2023

052424, Friday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.4

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 28

Journal Entry:

We had a good day working at the Bishops Storehouse. I had less pain than previous days and slept pretty well last night. Although I seem to be improving, I'm still concerned about the pain that remains. I will continue with the treatments and PT that have been scheduled. 

Today we will have breakfast at Aubergine Kitchen with Craig and Andrea and Beth then drop off our car for additional work that needs to be done by the body shop... The grill shutter repair. Beth has lovingly offered us the use of her car while ours is in the shop. Hopefully only for a few hours but we'll see.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 27: 14 And again, the angel said: Behold, the Lord hath heard the prayers of his people, and also the prayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for he has prayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to the knowledge of the truth; therefore, for this purpose have I come to convince thee of the power and authority of God, that the prayers of his servants might be answered according to their faith.

The power that comes with sincere prayer is mighty. We need to have faith that this is true and learn to recognize that this is true. Faith and patience are vitally important attributes to develop while in this mortal existence. Above all, know that God is there, and he hears and answers our prayers.

052324, Thursday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.8

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 27

Journal Entry:

I got to see Dr. Gordon yesterday and he set up some things that will take time to occur. He ordered a steroid/cortizon injection but when I tried to schedule it they said it would be necessary for me to stop taking aspirin for five days before the injection and that is now scheduled for May 28th. Physical Therapy won't start until week into June.

I was becoming sort of despondent when I realized that my pain level had gone easy down despite not having taken any pain medication since about 0100. I went through the rest of yesterday and the pain almost went completely away. So before going to bed last night I took a new sleep pill and celibrix and slept for five and a half hours which is an improvement. I woke up with enough pain to keep me awake but not nearly as bad as the last few nights. In other words significant improvement. It's now 0600 and I've taken no pain needs and my pain has gone down again. I think I'm improving. 

I actually went for a long walk with Cathy yesterday and got to over 7500 steps for the first time in a while. So I'm actually encouraged.

Today I'm planning on serving in the Bishops Storehouse with Cathy. We now serve on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 23:18 Therefore they did watch over their people, and did nourish them with things pertaining to righteousness.

"The primary purpose in this ministering idea will be, as was said of the people in Alma’s day, to “watch over their people, and … nourish them with things pertaining to righteousness.”

...With these adjustments we want more care and concern, not less."

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2018

ScripturePlus Scripture of the Day:

Mosiah 23:6-7

 6 And the people were desirous that Alma should be their king, for he was beloved by his people. 7 But he said unto them: 

Behold, it is not expedient that we should have a king; for thus saith the Lord: “Ye shall not esteem one flesh above another, or one man shall not think himself above another;” therefore I say unto you it is not expedient that ye should have a king.

052224, Wednesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 229.0

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 26

Journal Entry:

Since getting our car back from the body shop, we have been seeing this message on our dashboard: "Grill Shutter Inoperative. Visit Your Dealer." I guess we'll have to take it back to the body shop and hope for the best.

Going to see Dr. Gordon this morning. I've got to get whatever it's causing the pain in my back, hip and left leg fixed. I almost can't function because of the pain. Hopefully the spinal MRI I had on Monday will provide a solution.

I didn't go to the Bishops Storehouse yesterday because of the pain.

Were scheduled for an Endowment session at the Saratoga Springs temple this afternoon but I'm not sure I can do it. I hardly slept at all last night and that doesn't bode well for sitting through a temple session. Might have to cancel.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 18:27 And again Alma commanded that the people of the church should impart of their substance, every one according to that which he had; if he have more abundantly he should impart more abundantly; and of him that had but little, but little should be required; and to him that had not should be given.

28 And thus they should impart of their substance of their own free will and good desires towards God, and to those priests that stood in need, yea, and to every needy, naked soul.

"This very hour there are many members of the Church who are suffering. They are hungry, stretched financially, and struggling with all manner of...distress. They pray with all the energy of their souls for succor, for relief.

...[P]lease do not think that this is someone else’s responsibility. It is mine, and it is yours. We are all enlisted. “All” means all...In the Lord’s plan, there is something everyone can contribute.

...[R]ich and poor are all under the same sacred obligation to help their neighbor. It will take all of us working together to successfully apply the principles of welfare and self-reliance."

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, October 2011

052124, Tuesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.8

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 25

Journal Entry:

We tried to walk at Rock Canyon Park in Provo but couldn't complete a lap due to the flooding. We turned back and I just had to quit. 

I don't know what's going on with my back and hip but the pain is not going away. If anything it's worse. I'm finding it necessary to take pain medication in order to function at all. I'm supposed to see Dr. Gordon tomorrow and see what can be done.

We went to lunch at a cute little Cafe called "Joe's Cafe". The food was good. It's across State Street from Trader Joe's.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 18: 21 And he commanded them that there should be no contention one with another, but that they should look forward with one eye, having one faith and one baptism, having their hearts knit together in unity and in love one towards another.

"Your power to do good as a group of God’s [children] will depend, to a great degree, on the unity and love that exist among you. This is another gift of peace that comes through the Holy Ghost.

Alma understood this. That is why he pleaded with his people “that there should be no contention one with another, but that they should look forward with one eye, having one faith and one baptism, having their hearts knit together in unity and in love one towards another."

Unity is necessary for us to have the Spirit in our class and in our family. But you know from experience, as I do, that such loving unity is hard to maintain. It takes having the Holy Ghost as a companion to open our eyes and temper our feelings."

President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, April 2017

052024, Monday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 229.7

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 24

Journal Entry:

My hip and leg pain seems to be getting worse. Yesterday I was in pain virtually all day. It becomes more bearable with pain medication but still it's there.

This morning we will go to Riverton to get another MRI... This time of my lower spine. Then I will be able to see Dr. Gordon on Wednesday. I'm totally mystified as to what's happening with me. I got just over six hours of sleep last night but was in pretty much unbearable pain by midnight. I had a peanut butter and banana sandwich and popped a couple of Advils and an arthritis strength Tylenol. So now it's five a.m. and I'm still in pain but it's bearable.

I tried to walk yesterday but couldn't make it very far. Maybe 15-20 minutes.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 18:8 and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light; 9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life—10 Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?

"Have I done any good in the world today?

Have I helped anyone in need?

Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?

If not, I have failed indeed.

Has anyone’s burden been lighter today

Because I was willing to share?

Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?

When they needed my help was I there?"

Hymn no. 223

Keep up the good work!

051924, Sunday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 227.0

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 23

Journal Entry:

We drove by the Provo Temple site yesterday morning and as you can see from the photo here the old building is almost completely demolished. There is, in my mind, a sense of some urgency since there were workers engaged there on a Saturday.

I sense that church leaders want the new Rock Canyon Provo Temple to be completed on this site as soon as possible partly because of its location across the street  (900 North) from the Missionary Training Center.

Mt. Timpanogos is in the background of the photo.

Later we drove up Provo Canyon and walked on the bike and pedestrian path from Bridal Veil Falls up towards Vivian Park and back. It was a beautiful day and we enjoyed the walk.

Come Follow Me 

051824, Saturday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 230.8

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 22

Journal Entry:

We picked up the Prius and it looks great. It's so nice to have it back. We'll take the rental back this morning.

Brad and Alice Harward came over yesterday evening and we had tacos, played Five Crowns and enjoyed a very nice visit.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 16: 8 But there is a resurrection, therefore the grave hath no victory, and the sting of death is swallowed up in Christ.

"Yes, this life is passing swiftly; our days seem to fade quickly; and death appears frightening at times. Nevertheless, our spirit will continue to live and will one day be united with our resurrected body to receive immortal glory. I bear solemn witness that because of the merciful Christ, we will all live again and forever. Because of our Savior and Redeemer, one day we will truly understand and rejoice in the meaning of the words “the sting of death is swallowed up in Christ.”

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, October 2012

"Brothers and sisters, one of the great consolations of this Easter season is that because Jesus walked such a long, lonely path utterly alone, we do not have to do so. His solitary journey brought great company for our little version of that path—the merciful care of our Father in Heaven, the unfailing companionship of this Beloved Son, the consummate gift of the Holy Ghost, angels in heaven, family members on both sides of the veil, prophets and apostles, teachers, leaders, friends. All of these and more have been given as companions for our mortal journey because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the Restoration of His gospel. Trumpeted from the summit of Calvary is the truth that we will never be left alone nor unaided, even if sometimes we may feel that we are. Truly the Redeemer of us all said: “I will not leave you comfortless: [My Father and] I will come to you [and abide with you].”

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2009

051724, Friday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 229.2

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 21

Journal Entry:

Hopefully our car will come out of the body shop today. Cathy has been reluctant for me to drive since the accident. Truthfully I also had the same problem a few days later - driving up on the curb by pushing the accelerator rather than the brake - so there's not much I can say. But it's OK for now. She feels my problem is being too tired and she might have something there. I got a little more sleep last night but I still get a lot of pain after a few hours. Makes it hard to sleep. It's like to get at least 6 hours in every night but last night it was about 5 and a half and that was an improvement over the last couple of weeks.

Mostly it's nice having her drive but I'm going to have to be able to drive some - like to the temple - when the time comes.

My MRI didn't show much. It's possible that my problems could be related to my previous spinal surgery. I'm going to get another MRI this time of of my spine to rule that  out  - or in.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 15: 7 Yea, even so he shall be led, crucified, and slain, the flesh becoming subject even unto death, the will of the Son being swallowed up in the will of the Father.

"Do not ever doubt the goodness of God, even if you do not know “why.” The overarching question asked by the bereaved and the burdened is simply this: Why? Why did our daughter die, when we prayed so hard that she would live and when she received priesthood blessings? Why are we struggling with this misfortune, when others relate miraculous healing experiences for their loved ones? These are natural questions, understandable questions. But they are also questions that usually go begging in mortality. The Lord has said simply, “My ways [are] higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts”. As the Son’s will was “swallowed up in the will of the Father” so must ours be."

Elder Lance B. Wickman Of the Seventy, October 2002

Mosiah 15:1-4 1 And now Abinadi said unto them: 

I would that ye should understand that God himself shall come down among the children of men, and shall redeem his people.

 2 And because he dwelleth in flesh he shall be called the Son of God, and having subjected the flesh to the will of the Father, being the Father and the Son— 3 The Father, because he was conceived by the power of God; and the Son, because of the flesh; thus becoming the Father and Son— 4 And they are one God, yea, the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth

051624, Thursday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 227.9

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 20

Journal Entry:

I had my MRI yesterday and I am going to see Dr. Gordon this afternoon. Cathy looked at the MRI report in my medical app and thought it indicated basic buritis but wasn't sure. I'll find out more today in my meeting with the doctor.

I'm still in quite a bit of pain at night and got very little sleep last night... Maybe a little over 4 hours. I'm hoping to play pickleball this morning but we'll see. I took a couple of Advil and hope that works.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 14: 10 Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief; when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.

"The Savior, as a member of the Godhead, knows each of us personally. Isaiah and the prophet Abinadi said that when Christ would “make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed”. Abinadi explains that “his seed” are the righteous, those who follow the prophets. In the garden and on the cross, Jesus saw each of us and not only bore our sins, but also experienced our deepest feelings so that he would know how to comfort and strengthen us."

Bishop Merrill J. Bateman, Presiding Bishop, April 1995

051524, Wednesday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 229.2

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 19

Journal Entry:

The "old" Provo Temple was a very distinctive looking building. If you looked at a picture you knew right away which temple you were looking at. But old age was setting,repairs were getting expensive and updates were getting harder to accomplish so it had to go.

Yesterday we drove by and saw that demolition was well underway. The only recognizable portion of the building is the still existing base of the tower.

Then I had the thought that the new Rock Canyon Provo Temple which will be built on roughly the same ground could become a focal point for a Utah County Temple Square. Mind you I haven't read or heard anything about such a development but keep in mind that the Church owns a lot of land where the new temple will be built and it's right across from the Provo Missionary Training Center which is arguably the main MTC for the church world-wide.

Just saying... A nice visitor center could benefit the churches ongoing mission of gathering Israel.

I am still suffering from extensive pain from my left hip area. It keeps me from getting the sleep I should be getting. An MRI is scheduled for me later today and I'm hoping it will provide answers as to what's going on with me.

It looks like our car which I damaged in a dumb collision last week will be ready by Friday and we can lose the rental.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 14:3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

"Elder Richard G. Scott explained that “we were taught in the premortal world that our purpose in coming here is to be tested, tried, and stretched.” That stretching comes in as many forms as there are individuals experiencing it… I don’t completely understand your challenges. But through my personal tests and trials—the ones that have brought me to my knees—I have become well acquainted with the One who does understand, He who was “acquainted with grief, who experienced all and understands all."

"We each belong to and are needed in the family of God."

Carole M. Stephens First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, April 2015

Mosiah 13: 24 “Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife, nor his man‐servant, nor his maid‐servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is thy neighbor’s.”

As I was reading this I received the impression that this is one of the main problems in today's society. Not only do many "covet" what others have but they are taught to do so in school and by the media, etc.

We see the good things that others have and without appreciating how they were obtained or earned we are taught that these things should be ours without earning them. That is what coveting is and why it's evil.

051424, Tuesday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 229.0

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 18

Journal Entry 

My visit with the doctor yesterday was very productive. I have an MRI scheduled for tomorrow and that should verify what is causing my pain. In the meantime he prescribed some medication that will help reduce my pain and sleep better.

I did, in fact, sleep better last night and my pain level is more bearable. Encouraging.

Bishops Storehouse today. Looking forward to that.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 13:4 But I must fulfil the commandments wherewith God has commanded me; and because I have told you the truth ye are angry with me. And again, because I have spoken the word of God ye have judged me that I am mad.

"Unfortunately, messengers of divinely mandated commandments are often no more popular today than they were anciently… Hate is an ugly word, yet there are those today who would say with the corrupt Ahab, “I hate [the prophet Micaiah]; for he never prophesied good unto me, but always [prophesied] evil.”…Sadly enough, my young friends, it is a characteristic of our age that if people want any gods at all, they want them to be gods who do not demand much, comfortable gods, smooth gods who not only don’t rock the boat but don’t even row it, gods who pat us on the head, make us giggle, then tell us to run along and pick marigolds. 

Talk about man creating God in his own image!"

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2014

051324, Monday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 232.5

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 17

9. "...If ye will not believe surely ye shall not be established."

Journal Entry

I was mostly pain free for most of the day and we had an enjoyable time with Jake and his family. We got the back patio looking pretty good and the kids really enjoyed hanging out back there.

My hip and leg started hurting again toward the evening. I took some more Advil and Tylenol but couldn't sleep much because of the pain.

I'm going to see Dr Gordon this morning and hopefully he will have suggestions for healing. My hip and leg has been sore for days now and I hope we can find out why.

Come Follow Me 

The prophet Abinadi explained the role of the feelings that come from God to our hearts. He taught that we cannot understand the scriptures completely unless we apply our heart to understanding. 

This truth was well stated in a children’s book, The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. In the story, the little prince became friends with a fox. Upon parting, the fox shared a secret with the little prince. He said, “Here is my secret … : It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”

Elder Walter F. González Of the Presidency of the Seventy, October 2012

Mosiah 12:27 Ye have not applied your hearts to understanding; therefore, ye have not been wise. Therefore, what teach ye this people?

"...perhaps the scriptures are suggesting to us that reason and “the arm of flesh” (D&C 1:19) are not sufficient to produce true understanding. Thus, understanding, as the word is used in the scriptures, does not refer solely or even primarily to intellectual or cognitive comprehension. Rather, understanding occurs when what we know in our minds is confirmed as true in our hearts by the witness of the Holy Ghost.

The spiritual gift of revelation most typically operates as thoughts and feelings put into our minds and hearts by the Holy Ghost (see D&C 8:2–3, 100:5–8). And as testimony and conviction move from our heads to our hearts, we no longer just have information or knowledge—but we begin to understand and seek after the mighty change of heart. Understanding, then, is the result of revelation; it is a spiritual gift, it is a prerequisite to conversion, and it entices us to more consistently live in accordance with the principles we are learning.

This revealed insight about the relationship between the heart and understanding has greatly influenced my approach to gospel learning and study, has affected positively the way Sister Bednar and I teach our children and grandchildren, and has impacted my priesthood service."

BYU Devotional: A Reservoir of Living Water

DAVID A. BEDNAR

of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

February 4, 2007

051224, Sunday,Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 231.7

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 16

Journal Entry

I’ll admit that it’s not always easy to hear what a prophet has to say. While serving in the Relief Society General Presidency, I attended a General Authority Training session held prior to general conference. During that meeting, the Apostle conducting the training did something unusual. Whenever someone used the words woman or man, he corrected them and told them to use the words mother or fatherinstead.

At first, I didn’t think much about it, but as the meeting wore on and he repeatedly emphasized that women were mothers and men were fathers, I became painfully aware that I was the only non-parent in the room. By the end of the morning, I felt condemned.

When the training ended, I bolted out of the room so no one would see my tears. At first, I was just hurt; but then I began to seethe: “How could an Apostle disenfranchise an entire segment of members?”

I stewed about this for months—until I began to work on my upcoming talk for the General Relief Society Meeting. I pleaded for inspiration, but I got nothing! I had no ideas. Finally, I received a clear impression: that I should speak about motherhood. “You’ve got to be kidding,” I thought. But the impression was clear. So, I began to search the scriptures and teachings of prophets. I went to the temple again and again and pleaded for understanding. And guess what I learned? That the Apostle who had offended me was right. His approach was insensitive. But he had taught an eternal truth—that every woman has a divine endowment as a mother. That truth led me to prepare an address entitled “Are We Not all Mothers?” which is still quoted every Mother’s Day because it is filled with truth—truth I had to humble myself to learn.

Learn from my experience. Don’t make life harder by being stupid. Don’t be deceived by activists who believe their passion for a cause gives them permission to censure prophets. Don’t turn your back on those who have all priesthood keys and who can help you see around corners.

Prophets Can See Around Corners 

By Sheri Dew, 

November 02, 2022

051124, Saturday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 228.8

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 15

Journal Entry

I went with Cathy to get things for our mothers day get together tomorrow with Jake and Meredith and the kids. I got the patio chairs (there are only two) out of the garage and moved them to the back patio area. Bill and Diane Harvey were working on their back yard too and we all stopped and had a nice visit. Then Cathy and I decided to get an umbrella for shade back there so we went to Costco and got one we think we'll like. 

The weather which had been very nice earlier in the day took a turn for the worse so we didn't put the umbrella together. We'll do that tomorrow morning.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 8: 18 Thus God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles; therefore he becometh a great benefit to his fellow beings.

"Often we describe a miracle as being healed without a full explanation by medical science or as avoiding catastrophic danger by heeding a clear prompting. However, defining a miracle as “a beneficial event brought about through divine power that mortals do not understand” gives an expanded perspective into matters more eternal in nature. This definition also allows us to contemplate the vital role of faith in the receipt of a miracle."

Elder Donald L. HallstromOf the Seventy, October 2017

051024, Friday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.8

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 14

Journal Entry

I'm still having severe pain in my left upper leg from the hip down to the knee. Yesterday I stayed home from the Bishops Storehouse because I haven't been able to sleep and was very tired. I took two Ibuprofen pills and an arthritis strength Tylenol yesterday morning and the pain went away. I carefully played pickleball with no adverse effects but was more tired as the day moved along. Cathy suggested I stay home from the Storehouse assignment. I slept some but the pain started coming back. So I went for a short walk and it settled down again. Last night I took two Advil PMs and another arthritis strength Tylenol and slept pretty well until about 2AM. But now the pain is back again. Fortunately I've nothing scheduled for today. I'll see a doctor on Monday and see if we can figure this out.

I'm going to have Cathy drive when we go out together. I almost crashed again yesterday. Old age is tough.

Come Follow Me 

"The presence of seers among us is not much spoken of, yet the ability to see beyond the present lends power and authority to apostolic testimony and teaching…

To the question of what our modern seers are making known that otherwise could not be known and what they are seeing that is not visible to the natural eye, I make a very simple response. Listen, ponder, and prayerfully consider what they are teaching and what they are doing. As you do so, a pattern emerges that reveals much, and therein will the answer to this question be found."

"There is an expanding gulf between the standards of the world and those of the gospel and kingdom of God, and … living prophets will always teach the standards of God."

Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander Of the Presidency of the Seventy, October 2000

I truly love to replay general conference talks and try to follow the advice given.

Mosiah 8:16 And Ammon said that a seer is a revelator and a prophet also; and a gift which is greater can no man have, except he should possess the power of God, which no man can; yet a man may have great power given him from God.

17 But a seer can know of things which are past, and also of things which are to come, and by them shall all things be revealed, or, rather, shall secret things be made manifest, and hidden things shall come to light, and things which are not known shall be made known by them, and also things shall be made known by them which otherwise could not be known.

050824, Wednesday, Journal Entry - Left hip soreness

Vitals: Weight 230.1

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 12

Journal Entry 

We got the back rolling on getting out car repaired. Now we'll see how long it takes.

We had a good afternoon at the Bishops Storehouse. It was moderately busy and we helped quite a few people.

Then we came home and covered our garden with protective sheets because of the anticipated freezing weather. Hopefully the plants will survive.

Today we are planning to go to the Saratoga Springs temple for Initiatories. I really miss our temple - closed for maintenance for one month. There was a time in my life when our temple choices would have been Salt Lake to the north and Manti to the south. Now we have Orem, Provo City Center and Payson along with Saratoga Springs. Each of those are less than a one hour drive from our home. Plus our Mt. Timpanogos temple which will reopen in a couple of weeks, then the new Provo Rock Canyon, Lindon and Newly announced Lehi temple. So no complaints.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 7: 29 For behold, the Lord hath said: I will not succor my people in the day of their transgression; but I will hedge up their ways that they prosper not; and their doings shall be as a stumbling block before them.

30 And again, he saith: If my people shall sow filthiness they shall reap the chaff thereof in the whirlwind; and the effect thereof is poison.

"We have the Lord’s assurance that he will bless and prosper his people if they will keep his commandments and remember to look to him as the source of their blessings.

On the other hand, we must not forget that these blessings are conditional…[as] King Limhi warned his people…"

Elder Dean L. Larsen Of the Presidency of the Seventy, October 1992

050924, Thursday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 228.3

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 13

Journal Entry

Left hip and knee are very painful. Don't know why. Can't sleep well due to pain. I have a doctor's appointment for this Monday. Hopefully we'll learn something.

Come Follow Me 

"...the Savior invites us to seek Him in every thought and to follow Him with all our heart. This gives us the promise that we can walk in His light and that His guidance prevents the influence of darkness in our life.

Seeking Christ in every thought and following Him with all our heart requires that we align our mind and desires with His...This course of action implies that we continually conduct our lives in harmony with the gospel of Christ and focus daily on everything that is good."

Elder Ulisses Soares Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, October 2020

Mosiah 7:33 But if ye will turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart, and put your trust in him, and serve him with all diligence of mind, if ye do this, he will, according to his own will and pleasure, deliver you out of bondage.

It has taken most of my life to realize that I can focus daily and continuously on following the teachings of Jesus Christ. 

050724, Tuesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 228.3

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 11

Journal Entry 

We spent a good part of the day getting the process going to get our car repaired. The damages will be about just under $5,000. We'll wind up paying our $1,000 deductible and probably another $1,000 spread out over the next three years in increased insurance premium payments. We can handle it but I really wish I hadn't had that accident.

We went to Fashion Place and walked for exercise. It's a ways away but it's too cold and rainy to walk outside. As you can see from the photo, Cathy is feeling better. That was a brief moment in Dillard's.

Today we will have breakfast with Jake as we try to do on Tuesdays. It's really pleasant having the opportunity to visit with him on these Tuesday mornings. Later we'll serve at the Bishops Storehouse. I think Cathy has healed to the point where she will  be able to serve there without too much trouble. We will now serve on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and no longer on Saturday mornings

Come Follow Me 

I'm staying on schedule with the Come Follow Me curriculum but also going back to review what we started at the beginning of the year. My Book of Mormon Reading that I document at the beginning of most of my daily journal entries has evolved into a redo of earlier Cone Follow Me lessons. The Book of Mormon is one of the greatest blessings available to me and I want to take advantage of all that it has to offer. I've got the time to really study it so I'm trying to do that.

Mosiah 7: 27 And because he said unto them that Christ was the God, the Father of all things, and said that he should take upon him the image of man, and it should be the image after which man was created in the beginning; or in other words, he said that man was created after the image of God, and that God should come down among the children of men, and take upon him flesh and blood, and go forth upon the face of the earth—

"The longer I live, the more knowledge I gain. That knowledge helps me to understand that the gift of our physical bodies is a transcendent miracle. A unique body is given to each of us by our loving Heavenly Father. He created it as a tabernacle for our spirits, to assist each of us in our quest to fulfill the full measure of our creation. Our bodies allow each of us to experience the great plan of salvation that He has designed for all His precious children. He wants us eventually to become more like Him and return to live with Him. That great blessing would not be possible without our first receiving a physical body in this probationary estate."

President Russell M. Nelson

050624, Monday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 228.8

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 10

Journal Entry 

Cathy's foot is still swollen and sore so we spent Sunday at home. I'm having some back and hip pain as well but Tylenol and Ibuprofen help. 

Hopefully we will be able to walk some today but it's actually supposed to snow so Fashion Place might be it. It literally rained all day yesterday and was very cold but no snow.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 7: 19 Therefore, lift up your heads, and rejoice, and put your trust in God, in that God who was the God of Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob; and also, that God who brought the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt, and caused that they should walk through the Red Sea on dry ground, and fed them with manna that they might not perish in the wilderness; and many more things did he do for them.

Mosiah 7

“In the Book of Mormon, we read about a man named Ammon who was sent from the land of Zarahemla to the land of Lehi-Nephi to inquire concerning his brethren. There he found King Limhi and his people, who were in bondage to the Lamanites. King Limhi was encouraged by the things Ammon shared with him about his people in Zarahemla. His heart was filled with such great hope and joy that he gathered his people to the temple and said:

“’Therefore, lift up your heads, and rejoice, and put your trust in God. …

“’If ye will turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart… and serve him with all diligence of mind… he will, according to his own will and pleasure, deliver you out of bondage’ 

Elder Ulisses S. Soares, April 2017 general conference

050524, Sunday, Journal Entry

  Vitals: Weight 228.1

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 9

Journal Entry 

I crashed my Toyota Prius yesterday. Pulling into a slant parking spot in front of Guru's on Center Street in Provo, I had a senior moment. Stepped on the accelerator instead of the brake and nearly ran into a building after driving up on the sidewalk. The car is towed and will need some body work. Fortunately Jake was there and helped. We have a rental car now for a few days.

Earlier I served in the Bishops Storehouse for my Saturday morning shift. Cathy's foot is still too sore because of her severely stubbed toe so she stayed home. 

After the Storehouse we drove to Springville to watch Fredrick play T-ball. Then we decided to treat everyone to lunch. That's why we all wound up at Guru's together.

Cathy suggested gently - and I think she's correct - that I should reduce my scheduled activities some. After all, I'm going to be 78 years old on my next birthday and I'm beginning to feel the affects of getting older..

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 5:15 Therefore, I would that ye should be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in good works, that Christ, the Lord God Omnipotent, may seal you his, that you may be brought to heaven, that ye may have everlasting salvation and eternal life, through the wisdom, and power, and justice, and mercy of him who created all things, in heaven and in earth, who is God above all. Amen.

"How can we determine what will be the normal things in our life and in our family? In the scriptures we find a great model; in Mosiah 5:15 it says, “I would that ye should be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in good works.”

I love these words because we know that the things that become normal in our lives are those that we repeat again and again. If we are steadfast and immovable in doing good, our customs will be in accordance with the principles of the gospel and they will help us to stay on the covenant path."

Elder Rafael E. Pino Of the Seventy, October 2022

050424, Friday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 230.1

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 8

Journal Entry 

We drove up to Kamas and had lunch at the Mirror Lake Diner. It's been awhile since we've been there and their menu has changed. I used to enjoy their hamburgers so I ordered one again and it has really improved. My burger - pictured  - featured lettuce, tomato, Avocado, Bleu cheese, onions, bacon and a 1/3 pound patty of beef. I'm not sure I should be proud of being my own version of a hamburger conniseur but I sort of am and I can't remember ever having a better burger than this one. Probably has something to do with my weight bursting into the 230 area.

After working in the Bishops Storehouse today we will drive out to Springville to watch Fredrick play T-ball. Should be decent weather. Cathy's foot might be unswollen enough where she can go to the Bishops storehouse with me but she definitely will go to Springville.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 5: 7 And now, because of the covenant which ye have made ye shall be called the children of Christ, his sons, and his daughters; for behold, this day he hath spiritually begotten you; for ye say that your hearts are changed through faith on his name; therefore, ye are born of him and have become his sons and his daughters.

8 And under this head ye are made free, and there is no other head whereby ye can be made free. There is no other name given whereby salvation cometh; therefore, I would that ye should take upon you the name of Christ, all you that have entered into the covenant with God that ye should be obedient unto the end of your lives.

"Latter-day Saints affirm that those who have been born again in this way are spiritually begotten sons and daughters of Jesus Christ. Nevertheless, in order to realize the intended blessings of this born-again status, we must still keep our covenants and endure to the end. In the meantime, through the grace of God, we have been born again as new creatures with new spiritual parentage and the prospects of a glorious inheritance."

Elder Dallin H. Oaks Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 1998

"A covenant is a pledge that we should prepare for, clearly understand, and absolutely honor. Making a covenant with God is different than casually making a promise. First, priesthood authority is required. Second, a feeble promise does not have the connecting strength to lift us above the pull of the natural flow. We make a covenant only when we intend to commit ourselves quite exceptionally to fulfilling it. We become covenant children of God and inheritors of His kingdom, especially when we identify ourselves completely with the covenant."

Elder Dale G. Renlund Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April  2023

050324, Friday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 227.9

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 7

Journal Entry 

I know that a new Provo Rock Canyon Temple will soon be constructed on the site of the old Provo Temple but it is sad in a way to see the old temple being torn down.

I took this photograph yesterday.

I don't know why Cathy has suffered like she has with her fall and broken pelvis and now her foot being swollen and discolored after stubbing her toe but I'm trying to do my best to keep her cheered up and as happy as possible. She is a remarkable woman and will keep trying despite these challenges.

Today is pretty much a free day. Nothing planned. 

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 5:2 And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.

"We all need to seek to have our hearts and very natures changed so that we no longer have a desire to follow the ways of the world but to please God. True conversion is a process that takes place over a period of time and involves a willingness to exercise faith. It comes when we search the scriptures instead of the Internet. It comes when we are obedient to the commandments of God. Conversion comes when we serve those around us. It comes from earnest prayer, regular temple attendance, and faithful fulfillment of our God-given responsibilities. It takes consistency and daily effort."

Bonnie L. Oscarson Young Women General President, April 2016

"Preparation isn’t just for those going to the temple for the first time. We all should be perpetually preparing to go to the house of the Lord. One stake I know has adopted the motto “Home centered, Church supported, and temple bound.” Bound is an interesting word in that it means focused on a direction, but it also means fastened to or secured by, resolved and determined, sure. So being temple bound secures us to the Savior, giving us proper direction and stability while ensuring we have covenant confidence through Jesus Christ."

Elder Ulisses Soares Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2024

050224, Thursday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Weight 227.9

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 6

Journal Entry 

Cathy had nearly recovered from her fractured pelvis injury when yesterday morning she stubbed her toe while just walking in our home. She can't wear shoes now and can barely walk. Poor girl can't catch a break.

We had reservations for endowments at the Provo City Center Temple. She couldn't go but I went. That's a beautiful temple and I very much enjoyed the session.

Today I am playing pickleball with my pals. After that we'll see what maybe needs to be done for Cathy's toe.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 4:29 And finally, I cannot tell you all the things whereby ye may commit sin; for there are divers ways and means, even so many that I cannot number them.

30 But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember, and perish not.

"God hears every prayer we offer and responds to each of them according to the path He has outlined for our perfection."

President Jeffrey R. Holland Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2024

050124, Wednesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.4

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 5

Journal Entry 

Yesterday was a good and busy day. I was able to participate in an Endowment Session at 0600 in the Orem Temple for a relative named Frank Janny. Then, as planned, breakfast with Jake and Cathy at Corner  Bakery. Got some steps in at Fashion Place Mall while Cathy did some shopping and finally a good shift at the Bishops Storehouse. 

I actually slept pretty well last night knowing that I had no pressing duties this morning. We are scheduled for an Endowment Session together at the Provo City Center Temple this afternoon. We will do some chores around the house this morning.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 4:16 And also, ye yourselves will succor those that stand in need of your succor; ye will administer of your substance unto him that standeth in need; and ye will not suffer that the beggar putteth up his petition to you in vain, and turn him out to perish.

17 Perhaps thou shalt say: The man has brought upon himself his misery; therefore I will stay my hand, and will not give unto him of my food, nor impart unto him of my substance that he may not suffer, for his punishments are just—

18 But I say unto you, O man, whosoever doeth this the same hath great cause to repent; and except he repenteth of that which he hath done he perisheth forever, and hath no interest in the kingdom of God.

19 For behold, are we not all beggars? Do we not all depend upon the same Being, even God, for all the substance which we have, for both food and raiment, and for gold, and for silver, and for all the riches which we have of every kind?

"In every big city, we have those who are beaten down and left by the roadside—those who are homeless, destitute, hungry, and sick. Some say that by giving them money we only support their habit of drug or alcohol addiction, thus enabling them to continue a lifestyle they have chosen. It is so easy to judge these individuals and…speculate about all the mistakes they have made in their lives that brought this great misery upon them…

There are many ways to help the homeless, including the contribution of time, goods, and money to humanitarian groups, soup kitchens, or agencies that deal with these problems. Nevertheless, it seems to me that we must also show mercy unto them. The established principles of welfare are an appropriate guide."

Elder William W. Parmley Of the Seventy, October 2003

I have often pondered about what to do with people who are standing on corners begging for handouts or who actually approach me asking for money. Elder Parmley's advice seems to be too let the various social agencies including the church deal with this. And we do contribute fast offerings and other funds to the church which oversees distributing food and other necessities to those in need. But I sometimes feel the prompting to give a few dollars in some situations and I do that. Hopefully I am complying with what seems to be the suggestion in the above scripture... Helping the needy.

"I have wept in the night For the shortness of sight That to somebody’s need made me blind;

But I never have yet Felt a tinge of regret For being a little too kind."

 C.R. Gibson quoted by President Thomas S. Monson, November 2009