Today's Favorite Verse: John 14:27

Today's Favorite Verse: John 14:27
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

This is a promise that never fails me. When I truly turn to the Lord for comfort and peace he's always there. I am never alone. What comfort that gives my heart.

I found this treasure of a video of Howard W. Hunter telling the story of Jesus walking on the water, the importance of not taking our eyes off Christ.



Day 1584

Today's Favorite Verse: John 13:10

Today's Favorite Verse: John 13:10
"Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all."

Jesus washed the feet of all his apostles. That is an ordinance. I pondered on how he even performed this ordinance for Judas that would betray him. I though upon how ordinances that are performed need to be sealed with the "Holy Spirit of Promise". That just because I received an ordinance does not mean that is the end of what needed to be done. Now I understand why there are two parts to it. Someone can receive ordinances unworthily, but the spirit's ratification is between you and God. That made me look for quotes on "The Holy Spirit of Promise"

"I will make an explanation of the expression, "Sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise." This does not have reference to marriage for time and all eternity only, but to every ordinance and blessing of the gospel. Baptism into the Church is sealed by this Spirit, likewise confirmation, ordination, and all ordinances as well as marriage for time and all eternity. The meaning of this expression is this: Every covenant, contract, bond, obligation, oath, vow, and performance, that man receives through the covenants and blessings of the gospel, is sealed by the Holy Spirit with a promise. The promise is that the blessing will be obtained, if those who seek it are true and faithful to the end. If they are not faithful, then the Holy Spirit will withdraw the blessing, and the promise comes to an end. (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 2:94-95)

"We may deceive men but we cannot deceive the Holy Ghost, and our blessings will not be eternal until they are also sealed by the holy spirit of promise, the Holy Ghost, one who reads the thoughts and hearts of men and gives his sealing approval to the blessings pronounced upon their heads. Then it is binding, and of full force," (Melvin J. Ballard, Sermons and Missionary Service of Melvin J. Ballard, Deseret Book Co., 1949, p. 237.)

"The operation and power of the Holy Spirit of Promise is best illustrated by the ordinance and contract of baptism. An unworthy candidate for baptism might deceive the elders and get the ordinance performed, but no one can lie to the Holy Ghost and get by undetected. Accordingly, the baptism of an unworthy and unrepentant person would not be sealed by the Spirit; it would not be ratified by the Holy Ghost; the unworthy person would not be justified by the Spirit in his actions. If thereafter he became worthy through repentance and obedience, the seal would then be put in force. Similarly, if a worthy person is baptized with the ratifying approval of the Holy Ghost attending the performance, yet the seal may be broken by subsequent sin.

These principles also apply to every other ordinance and performance in the Church. Thus if both parties are "just and true," if they are worthy, a ratifying seal is placed on their temple marriage; if they are unworthy, they are not justified by the Spirit and the ratification of the Holy Ghost is withheld. Subsequent worthiness will put the seal in force, and unrighteousness will break any seal." (Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p.362)

Day 1583

Today's Favorite Verse: John 12:37

Today's Favorite Verse: John 12:37
"But thou he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him:

One of the saddest verses in this whole chapter. After all was said and done there were many that did not believe Jesus was the Christ, even after all the miracles that he had done. What causes man to deny and not accept Christ?

"Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:
For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God." (John 12:42-43)

It would be the pride of man. It is always where the down fall of man begins.

Day 1582

Today's Favorite Verse: John 11:6

Today's Favorite Verse: John 11:6
"When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was."

This is the story of Lazarus that fell sick and word was sent to Jesus to come, yet he waited two days before heading out to where he laid, already knowing that Lazarus was dead. When I suffer and my prayers are not quickly answered I think upon this story of Lazarus. I know that the Lord is aware of my pain, but has a better plan in store. In this case it was to show the glory of God, and raise Lazarus from the dead. The Lord's plan is always a better plan. He knows how to make my faith stretch and to grow and become all that I can because of what I pass through. It is in the waiting that I learn, that part of the blessing was the wait.



Day 1581

Today's Favorite Verse: John 10:16

Today's Favorite Verse: John 10:16
"And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd."

I love how hidden in plain sight the Savior speaks of his other sheep, the tribes that have been separated from them, and they know them not. As Jehovah in the Old Testament he had promised to not only scatter Israel but to once again gather them. He was fulfilling his promises. After Christ resurrection he appears to one of the folds in the Americas and they hear his voice and testify of him. When he departs from them he refers to other sheep that he will now visit.

"And verily I say unto you, that ye are they of whom I said: Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd
And they understood me not, for they supposed it had been the Gentiles; for they understood not that the Gentiles should be converted through their preaching.
And they understood me not that I said they shall hear my voice; and they understood me not that the Gentiles should not at any time hear my voice - that I should not manifest myself unto them save it were by the Holy Ghost.
But behold, ye have both heard my voice, and seen me; and ye are my sheep, and ye are numbered among those whom the Father hath given me."
(3 Nephi 15:21-24)

"And verily, verily, I say unto you that I have other sheep, which are not of this land, neither of the land of Jerusalem, neither in any parts of that land round about whither I have been to minister.
For they of whom I speak are they who have not as yet heard my voice; neither have I at any time manifested myself unto them.
But I have received a commandment of the Father that I shall go unto them, and that they shall hear my voice, and shall be numbered among my sheep, that they may be one fold and one shepherd; therefore I go to show myself unto them."
(3 Nephi 16:1-3)

I cannot wait to read the records of these other lost sheep that Christ visited. This all reminds me of the painting by a Russian religious art painter, Mikhail Nesterov (1862-1942) inspired by very old Russian folk traditions of a visit by Jesus to the ancient Russians, the Kievan Rus, after his resurrection. It hangs in the Russian Gallery in Leningrad. Their folk traditions fits with the bible saying the lost ten tribes of Israel would be scattered and gathered from the north countries. (Deuteronomy 30:1-5) (Jeremiah 16:13-15) (Jeremiah 31:8-9). This all fits with what I know in my heart, their records are coming.

“Saintly Rus” (Святая Русь), by Mikhail Nesterov

Day 1580

Today's Favorite Verse: John 9:2-3

Today's Favorite Verse: John 9:2-3
"And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?
Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him."

This chapter is the story of the blind man from birth made to see. I love how the Lord explains that this condition was not caused by sin, "but that the works of God could be manifested in him". What Jesus then did was anoint the blind man's eyes with clay and tell him to go wash in the pool of Siloam. Once done the man could now see. But was it the miracle that Jesus refers to as the works of God made manifest. Possibly, but I think it is the telling at the end of the story where the man having testified that Jesus was a prophet, is now cast out of the synagogue, the religious and social center for the Jewish community. Now he meets Christ. Remember the blind man never saw the man Jesus that had healed him, for he was washing in the pool of Siloam when his vision came back. Now when Christ identifies himself the man believes and worships him. I think part of the way the works of God are made manifest is when through our trials, we can reach out in faith and come to know Him. If there was always clear weather, peace and no trials we would struggle to find faith in God. There is purpose in the storms, they are blessings in disguise.



Day 1579

Today's Favorite Verse: John 8:5-7

Today's Favorite Verse: John 8:5-7
"Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?
This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.
So when they continues asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her."

I read somewhere and then put it in my notes on this scripture that "This was a trap for Jesus, they had not stoned in a long time."  Yes, under the law of Moses someone caught in the act of adultery was punishable by stoning to death, but the Jews were not following God's law. It was not acceptable socially so this is why they thought it such a trap for Jesus.

Would he honor the law of Moses or would he honor the social custom of the day? How inspiring when Jesus puts the decision back on them. Which of course they could not now lift a stone at the woman, for it would go against the people. I guess you could say it wouldn't be politically correct for them.  I find it very interesting, not only does the Savior show such compassion for the woman, he also demonstrates how to handle those that set traps for us. Truly those that set traps for others have no true compassion or righteousness. I think those being "convicted by their own conscience" and leaving were showing they felt the hypocrites that they were. It does not say that they repented. Only to the woman did Christ say "Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more."


Day 1578

Today's Favorite Verse: John 7:41-43

Today's Favorite Verse: John 7:41-43
"Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee?
Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?
So there was a division among the people because of him."

I sat here pondering for quite a while on how the people did not know Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Wouldn't the people in Galilee recalled Joseph and Mary's trip there to pay taxes? The wisemen visiting them there. How they then fled to Egypt before Herod killed all the boys two-years-old and younger there. Eventually, they came home. It's a little place, how would they not know this part of the story? Why were the people even discussing this when an inquiry could have been made to find out the truth? The scripture records this so obviously people did know the truth.

As I sat and pondered I remembered a conversation I had today with my husband. I had seen something on Facebook and as I always do I looked up the facts. I always marvel when I find how foolish someone is to post something and the facts are right there to be had if they had only looked. So that means people today are no different then people back in Christ's day. They believe only what others say is the truth and don't actually look for the truth. If you honestly seek for truth you can find it. If you do not want the truth then you are seeking to cause division, or it's an indication of spiritual blindness. 

Day 1577

Today's Favorite Verse: John 6:38

Today's Favorite Verse: John 6:38
"For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me."

This means so much to me and is my guide. That like the Savior I need to desire to do the Father's will. Anything that takes me into doing my own will is in dangerous territory. I love this particular bible video and listening to how many time Jesus speaks of the Father. I see that it's foremost in all that He does.


Day 1576

Today's Favorite Verse: John 5:25

Today's Favorite Verse: John 5:25
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live."

Jesus is speaking of not only his resurrection, but the resurrection of the dead waiting in spirit prison. I reflected on not only Doctrine and Covenants 138 and Joseph F. Smith's vision of the redemption of the dead, but also Doctrine and Covenants 76:15-23. When Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon were translating this part of the New Testament and coming to the verses in this section they marveled.

"And while we meditated upon these things, the Lord touched the eyes of our understanding and they were opened, and the glory of the Lord shone around about.
And we beheld the glory of the Son, on the right hand of the Father, and received of his fullness."

Then they beautifully testify.

"And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father."
(Doctrine and Covenants 76:15-23)

The thought came to me that it was pondering on these verses and the great work of the redemption of the dead that caused heavenly visions to come to each of them. This is an excellent thing for me to ponder on. Particularly, I had not reflected on this part of the ministry of the Savior during the partaking of the sacrament, and it would be an excellent thing to do.

Day 1575

Today's Favorite Verse: John 4:9, 11, 15, 19, 29

Today's Favorite Verse: John 4:9, 11, 15, 19, 29
"The saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.
The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou has nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?
The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art prophet."
Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?"

I love this story of the Samaritan woman at the well. More than likely an outcast among women because she comes to the well at noon, when the other women would not be there. From there she meets Jesus and gradually as he speaks she perceives that he is indeed the Messiah that is to come. Her testimony is gradual because at first He is called "a Jew", then "Sir" and a "Prophet". Finally she identifies Him as the Christ. With that she runs to tell the others to come and see. Her experience is like most testimonies come including mine, gradually and deepens over time. When we are converted we then invite others to come and see.


Day 1574

Today's Favorite Verse: John 3:16

Today's Favorite Verse: John 3:16
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."

It is incredible to me how these two verses explain the plan of salvation. It speaks of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ as two separate beings. One the Father the other the Son. That we lived with God before coming to this earth. That the mission of Jesus Christ was to save us from our sins, if we just believed his words and followed him. Thus allowing us to gain eternal life.

I especially loved this verse because it supported a thought I had on charity and discussed with my family last night during scripture reading.

"But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him."
(Moroni 7:47)

This verse teaches me that charity is an eternal principle that endures forever. That God the Father possessed it by his example of the very plan of salvation prepared for us. The verse in John reinforces that God so loved the world. I had not connected these two verses in this thought. The other thought I had on Moroni 7:47 was how charity, the pure love of Christ was needed by us in order to survive the last days. And why is that?  Because without it we would be consumed by the evil of our day. Otherwise we would look for what is wrong in others, hate, attack, and destroy. This mentality destroys our humanity and love for one another. It makes us do things we otherwise would not do. The lack of charity is what destroyed the Nephite civilization. It would destroy us too if we let it. Charity is a spiritual protect to us, especially in the days that we live in. I can see why it is an order of heaven, and one of the most desirable things to have in the last days.





Day 1573

Today's Favorite Verse: John 2:10

Today's Favorite Verse: John 2:10
"And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now."

I started to reflect on this verse thinking about the best wine for last and then spotted this note I had added on this verse. Not sure where I found this quote from. I need to do better in the Gospel Library app about citing quotes.

"I also love how the governor of the wedding feast proclaimed that the good wine is usually served first, but here the best wine was saved for the last. Just like what our prophets have told us about the winding up scenes of the Earth. That the best and most choice spirits are saved for the last days."

It's interesting to contemplate being part of the best reserved for last. Where much is given much is required.

Day 1572

Today's Favorite Verse: John 1:50-51

Today's Favorite Verse: John 1:50-51
"Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree, believest thou? thou shalt see greater things than these.
And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man."

Here is the beginning of Jesus' ministry and the calling of his disciples. I reflected on how it must have been for them, having no idea what Jesus meant, that they would see greater things than these. What amazing miracles they would witness. Even until Jesus is crucified and dies and then three days later appears to them as a resurrected being. The heart and mind cannot comprehend what it must have been like for them. Then I remembered something the prophet recently said.

"Our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, will perform some of His mightiest works between now and when He comes again. We will see miraculous indications that God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory. But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives", April 2018 General Conference)

I don't know what amazing things the Lord has in store for his saints in my day. In all seriousness, I cannot waste a moment not being able to be guided by the spirit. I want to be on the right hand of all there is to witness.

Day 1571

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 24:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 24:16
"But their eyes were holden that they should not know him."

I love this chapter. I love the story of Jesus Christ appearing to his disciples after his resurrection. One thing I had pondered on is why were the two disciples on the road to Emmaus restrained from recognizing the Lord as he walked and opened the scriptures to them? I especially wondered this because in my near-death experience I know Satan appeared as the combination of people I had previously identified as being either spiritually or physically attractive. He did not appear as he truly would. He made his appearance such to confuse and attempt to deceive me. So why would the Lord appear in a similar manner, that I could naturally identify as deceiving? That would not fit who He is?

Then I realized I was looking at it with the eyes of being deceived and not what in this case it was, the eyes of faith. One being evil can only deceive. The Lord cannot, but he can test and try our faith. It was only through the spirit that he was first revealed. "Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?" What the disciples beautifully did on their walk with Jesus Christ on that road to Emmaus was bear testimony of Him. What the Savior did was open the scriptures up to them so they would come to recognize him. Isn't that exactly what I'm suppose to do?


Day 1570

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 23:23

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 23:23
"And they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed."

This made me reflect on how the voice of the people, especially when prevailed upon by wicked leaders leads to destruction. It was in 70 AD that Jerusalem fell because they had crucified their King. It's not hard to see the voice of people being led by wicked leaders doing the same thing to us today.

"Now it is not common that the voice of the people desireth anything contrary to that which is right; but it is common for the lesser part of the people to desire that which is not right; therefore this shall ye observe and it your law - to do your business by the voice of the people.
And if the time comes that the voice of the people doth choose iniquity, then is the time that the judgements of God will come upon you; yea, then is the time he will visit you with great destruction even as he has hitherto visited this land."
(Mosiah 29:26-27)

Day 1569

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 22:15

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 22:15
"And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer:"

At this passover Jesus broke bread in remembrance of his blood and gave wine as a new testament of his blood shed for us. He instituted the sacrament as a way to remember him, and to renew our covenants with him. What I noticed in this verse is he said "with desire I have desired". That is a very strong desire. I reflected on if I have as great a desire to take the sacrament as he was to give it to us? To be like Him, I should.

Day 1568

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 21:8, 36

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 21:8, 36
"And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them.
Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."

Those with the Savior asked "when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?" I find it interesting that the first thing he tells them is "be not deceived" and the last "Watch ye therefore, and pray always". I do think the greatest thing we have to watch for in these days is being deceived. As I pondered on this I realized that someone doesn't need to say they are Christ to deceive. They need to say listen to me and I will save you from...... I will help you obtain.... If we seek man's wisdom over God's then there is danger in being deceived.

Day 1567

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 20:23

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 20:23
"But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, Why tempt ye me?"

I always find it interesting when I read in the scriptures something I recently experienced. Twice yesterday, I had conversations where perceiving craftiness was the theme. I have decided this is the gift of discernment. One of the greatest of gifts we can possess in these the last days. Without it we can be deceived. This is why it is so desirable to have the spirit always to be with us. For it is by the spirit we can perceive things that otherwise can tempt or deceive.

Day 1568

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 19:41-42

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 19:41-42
"And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it,
Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes."

I had such incredible sadness come over me as I read these verses. I could picture the Lord looking over the cities of the world today, like he once did with Jerusalem, and feeling that same sorrow over the inhabitants in them. I have heard the world is now more wicked then Sodom and Gomorrah. Now when did I first hear that? It was at least during the days of President Gordon B. Hinckley.

“The traditional family is under heavy attack. I do not know that things were worse in the times of Sodom and Gomorrah. … We see similar conditions today. They prevail all across the world. I think our Father must weep as He looks down upon His wayward sons and daughters.”
(“Standing Strong and Immovable,” Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting,10 Jan. 2004, 20.)

Day 1567

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 18:22

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 18:22
"Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: And come, follow me."

When I read this verse the thought that came to me is, Jesus was saying what the "certain ruler" lacked was the desire to do the Father's will. He may have kept the commandments but it was the ruler's desire. What the Father wills for us, is much deeper and personal. Like being asked to minister to my fellow man, even if that means you distribute all that you have to the poor. The call is not the same for each of us. Sometimes, we lay it all on the altar when what is asked is personal and hard for us. The words come, follow me, Jesus taught by example by doing the Father's will, even when it required him to drink the bitter cup, atone for our sins and die for us.

Day 1566

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 17:36-37

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 17:36-37
"Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
And they answered and said unto him, Where, Lord? And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body is, thither will the eagles be gathered together.

I know I referenced these verses earlier when writing about Matthew 24:40-41,  but I was just talking to someone the other day about these same verses. I feel I need to share the Joseph Smith Translation (Luke 17:36-40) again, which makes clear where they are taken. This knowledge brings much peace on the matter of preparing for the Savior's second coming and serving in the vineyard until that day. The Lord knows where his saints are.

"And they answered and said unto him, Where Lord, shall they be taken?
And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body is gathered; or, in other words, whithersoever the saints are gathered, thither will the eagles be gathered together; or, thither will the remainder be gathered together.
This he spake, signifying the gathering of his saints; and of angels descending and gathering the remainder unto them; the one from the bed, the other from the grinding, and the other from the field, whithersoever he listeth.
For verily there shall be new heavens, and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
And there shall be no unclean thing; for the earth becoming old, even as a garment, having waxed in corruption, wherefore it vanisheth away, and the footstool remaineth sanctified, cleansed from all sin."
(JST Luke 17:36-40)

Day 1565

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 16:30-31

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 16:30-31
"And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead."

Not long after my prodigal child returned they asked me to make a promise to them. That when I died I would come back and visit them. Now, I knew they had a couple motivations. One was they had left the church but were not reconciled to their loss of belief. The other was my having a near death experience, which they once believed. But, now they used science to explain it all away as some part of the brain being triggered by chemicals released causing hallucinations. What they really lacked was faith and wanted a sign. Nothing good comes from someone seeking a sign.

When they asked me that, the story of Lazarus and the rich man came to mind. I told them no I can't make that promise. The prodigal child was shocked that as a religious person I would not promise them this. The spirit had me teach them, that the condition of a spirit returning is not up to them. They can only return or appear to someone on assignment from God. I could not promise something that may be totally against God's will. That was something they had not expected to hear.

The other impressions I kept to myself, but I knew as Abraham told the rich man in the parable, seeing won't make them believe. If you can think someone that had a near-death experience is making it up due to some chemicals released in the brain, then you would not believe a spirit that came to you either. The other reason I would not promise is to prevent any opportunity for a demonic or mischievous spirit to come and deceive them as me. For me to promise something that could be contrary to God's will, would open them up to exactly that. The sin would be upon my head. What they had asked me was a spiritual trap, something I will not participate in.   

Day 1564

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 15:17, 20

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 15:17, 20
"And when he came to himself, he said, how many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him."

I know the pain of being the mother of a prodigal child. All I could do is turn them over to the Lord for safe keeping until they would come to themselves. The Lord told me they would not be happy to see me if I chased after them, and he was right. It was the hardest thing I have ever done. It was also one of the greatest period of my life, because the Lord taught me so many things, and prepared me. My child has come home, and is still a far away off from the gospel and the Lord. But, I am grateful they are home and will wait upon the Lord, for he knows more about wayward children then I do.

Day 1563

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 14:33

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 14:33
"So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple."

I pondered on what it means to forsake. Have I been asked to give anything up for the gospel of Jesus Christ? I think that an unfair question seeing that my parents joined the church when I was four years old. The way I needed to live was already in place. Then I thought about my sins, which everyone must pass through. The ways of the natural man are what I have been called to forsake without a doubt. At some time things might be different when being a Christian takes on amplified persecution. I have known very little of that in my life. But, I have to say when it has happened and I had to make a stand, it only strengthen me in my testimony. Those were the moments I had no doubt I was a disciple of Jesus Christ and he was watching over me.

Day 1562

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 13:4-5

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 13:4-5
"Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish."

I know why I was drawn to these verses.  In the last two days there have been big earthquakes in California. Last night I could not sleep. I kept waking and then would try to listen to Dutchsinse talk about the earthquakes or read articles about it. I was really drawn to the comments being made by others.

The consensus is that California is so wicked God will punish it, and they will fall into the ocean. Now, I've been to California and attended church there. There are good people there that I know love the Lord. If anything because of them the land is not being destroyed for their sake. (Alma 10:22; Helaman 13:14) Also the wickedness in pockets of California are just an example of what is had among all men. They are no more wicked then the rest of us.

So what I see instead is a voice of warning (Doctrine & Covenants 42:23-25), but not only to California. It is to all inhabitants of this nation and land, in fact the entire world. Repent for we know not the hour of His coming. Neither do we know the hour when the door is shut on our ability to repent. 

In this chapter it continues..

"When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:
Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.
But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity."
(Luke 13:25-27)

The key is "I know you not whence ye are". What does that mean? I believe it is when we are far from the Lord in our thoughts, deeds and actions He cannot count us His. No one is perfect, but through daily repentance we can become clean. When we repentant and humble ourselves, we are standing inside the door before it is ever shut. With the world in commotion this is just another voice saying now is the time to repent. These were also the words of the prophet of the Lord in this past April General Conference.

"Thus, when Jesus asks you and me to “repent,” He is inviting us to change our mind, our knowledge, our spirit—even the way we breathe. He is asking us to change the way we love, think, serve, spend our time, treat our wives, teach our children, and even care for our bodies.

Nothing is more liberating, more ennobling, or more crucial to our individual progression than is a regular, daily focus on repentance. Repentance is not an event; it is a process. It is the key to happiness and peace of mind. When coupled with faith, repentance opens our access to the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Whether you are diligently moving along the covenant path, have slipped or stepped from the covenant path, or can’t even see the path from where you are now, I plead with you to repent. Experience the strengthening power of daily repentance—of doing and being a little better each day.

When we choose to repent, we choose to change! We allow the Savior to transform us into the best version of ourselves. We choose to grow spiritually and receive joy—the joy of redemption in Him. When we choose to repent, we choose to become more like Jesus Christ!"
(Russell M. Nelson, "We Can Do Better and Be Better", General Conference, Apr 2019)

Day 1561

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 12:12

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 12:12
"For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say."

I pondered on the times I have experienced this. Knowledge I did not have comes to me as I am discussing the scriptures with the family or others. I'm taught as I'm speaking. I always know the source because I truly had no prior understanding on how certain things fit. It's like a light that just came on and the doctrine is made clear.  It is quite an amazing things to participate in.

I think that is part of the reason we have been directed to read the scriptures as a family, and using Come, Follow Me. Parents that feel inadequate in their knowledge of the scriptures should take comfort in this promise. The spirit will give them the words and understanding needed to strengthen the faith of their family. It is received by personal revelation, and we must all learn to listen to it.

I have found one sure test for knowing I have been taught by the spirit. That is that I am never given original thought. It is only original to me. There is always another witness, be it in the scriptures or the words of the prophets or apostles. The confirmation of what the spirit taught me will always be there, and then there's more. 

Day 1560

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 11:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 11:4
"And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil."

I read the King James version of the Holy Bible, printed by "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints".  What I love about this version is not only the impressive chapter headers that explain things, and the expansive footnotes, but the inclusions of the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible. This was a project the prophet was called to work on after translating the Book of Mormon. I check the references all the time and I love how this verse was translated.

JST Luke 11:4 "...And let us not be led unto temptation; but deliver us from evil; for thine is the kingdom and power. Amen."

What is so interesting about this is the recent changes another faith's leader made to this verse in the Lord's Prayer, that expresses a similar view as the Joseph Smith Translation. For it is not possible for God to led us into temptation. It is when we turn from God that others, ourselves, even the devil and his angels can do so. For when we are led by God we are led away from temptation. Otherwise we are left to ourselves and of our own choice will go there.

Day 1559

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 10:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 10:2
"Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest."

When I think of this verse I typically think of missionary work. Today, I thought of temple work, and the work that is taking place on both sides of the veil. In the past 10 years I have seen more members involved in this work. Both in family history and taking their own family names to the temple, and at the temple performing the vicious ordinances for those that are not able to. Yet, I would say the harvest is great, but the laborers are few. There is much work that still needs to be done. Participating in this harvest does bring great joy. I think those not involved just need to dip their toes into the water to catch the spirit of it.

Day 1558

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 9:20

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 9:20
"He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God."

I pondered on how important this question is. It's the very one I think will be asked when I meet my Savior, Jesus Christ. I must know him and that he is the Christ. I feel within my heart that I do, that I don't need to see to believe. The eye of faith is overwhelming enough for my soul and sufficient for me. The rest I cannot comprehend. Though someday I know it will be.

"And there were many whose faith was so exceedingly strong, even before Christ came, who could not be kept from within the veil, but truly saw with their eyes the things which they had beheld with an eye of faith, and they were glad"
(Ether 12:19)

Day 1557

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 8:10

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 8:10
"And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand."

I pondered how merciful the Lord is to speak in parables. I am not accountable for what I do not understand, when I am trying to. The beauty of the gospel is to learn line upon line, precept upon precept as I am ready to receive. The only condemnation comes when I am not even trying to learn or understand. I have loved these moments when understanding comes. The combination of personal experiences and other scriptures have made the parable take on new meaning. I can be months from the experience or scripture verse when reading the parable again makes it suddenly become clear. There are times I read a parable and see something, then come back later and see more. There is beautiful depth and simplicity in the parables. Something for all, even when just grasping the message on the surface. The practice of what is learned is what makes us better. Whatever I understand is what the spirit wanted to teach me. It doesn't matter the depth. I have learned to be very patient with myself in understanding. There isn't a quiz at the end and the one with all the answers wins. The Lord wants all to win if we just open our hearts and seek for understanding. The spirit will help us along the way as we ponder them in our hearts and seek to live up to what has been given..

Day 1556