December 2014 Liahona

Home , Andrew Jenson, Stockholm Sweden Temple

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • DECEMBER 2014

Bringing Others Back to Faith in Christ, p. 12 Four Lessons from the Sacred Grove, p. 24 Recognizing the Reality of Christmas, p. 36 For Youth Curriculum: How You Can Help New Converts, p. 50 “Gratitude transcends whatever is happening around us. It surpasses disappointment, discouragement, and despair. It blooms just as beautifully in the icy landscape of winter as it does in the pleasant warmth of summer.”

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, “Grateful in Any Circumstances,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 75. Liahona, December 2014

MESSAGES FEATURE ARTICLES 36 The Reality of Christmas By Bishop Gary E. Stevenson 4 First Presidency Message: 12 Helping Others Find Faith Let us recognize that the babe born Fill the World with Christ’s Love in Christ in Bethlehem is the real Redeemer. By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf By Elder L. Tom Perry You can strengthen your faith now 7 Visiting Teaching Message: and help others return to a solid DEPARTMENTS The Divine Mission of Jesus foundation of faith in the Savior. Christ: Prince of Peace 8 What We Believe: Tithing Helps 18 Pioneers in Every Land: The Build Up the Kingdom of God Church in Sweden—Growth, Emigration, and Strength 10 Reflections: A Christmas Miracle By Inger Höglund By Lindsay Alder Despite the obstacles, the Lord is hastening His work in this beauti- 11 Old Testament Prophets: ful country. Malachi 24 Lessons from the Sacred Grove 40 Latter-day Saint Voices By Elder Marlin K. Jensen 80 Until We Meet Again: I Know By observing growth patterns of That He Lives trees, we can learn how to keep By Elder Melvin J. Ballard ourselves firmly rooted in eternal Jesus is our resurrected Lord, and truths. He invites us all to come unto Him. 30 The Lost 500 Years: From Malachi to John the Baptist By S. Kent Brown and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel What happened in the years ON THE COVER Front: Photo illustration by Matthew Reier. between the Old and New Inside front cover: © Johnér/offset.com. Testaments?

December 2014 1 YOUNG ADULTS YOUTH CHILDREN

48 The Savior and the Sacrament By David L. Beck 74 “This do in remembrance of me,” said the Savior as He instituted the sacrament. 50 What’s It Like to Be a Brand- New Convert? By Joshua J. Perkey Learn how you can help new converts adjust to membership in the 44 Church. 54 Questions and Answers What should I do when I am mocked at school for following Church standards? 67 Special Witness: Did Jesus Really Die and Rise Again? From the Mission Field: 56 By Elder D. Todd Christofferson No Angels Needed The Answer to All the Hard 44 By Jeniann Jensen Nielsen Bringing Primary Home: Questions 68 We Remember and Worship By R. Val Johnson 57 Poster: Make Room Our Savior, Jesus Christ If doubts start to seep into your 58 Where Am I? How to Discover By Erin Sanderson and heart, remember these five Jean Bingham principles. and Develop Your Spiritual Gifts and Talents Yancy By Elder Mervyn B. Arnold 70 By Elder Brent H. Nielson What could my uncle possibly do If only our horse had been with an old piece of metal? obedient, she could have lived 62 How to Prepare for the a happy life. Second Coming Our Page By Elder Dallin H. Oaks 71 What would you do if you See if you can 72 Friends around the World: knew you would meet the I’m Minna from Sweden find the Liahona Lord tomorrow? By Amie Jane Leavitt hidden in this issue. Hint: How 63 My Christmas Gift 74 The First Christmas By Dustin Ward By Jenn Wilks can animals Even though I was baptized when I Remember Jesus’s birth as you teach us about was eight, I never went to church— act out this play. obedience? until something changed my life forever. 76 Look Inside! By Sophia C. 64 Ready to Move Forward By Richard M. Romney 77 Old Testament Scripture Seven 12-year-olds tell what it’s Figures: David and Goliath like to advance from Primary into 78 For Young Children: A Bit Young Men or Young Women. of Christmas Every Day By Kate Strongin

63 DECEMBER 2014 VOL. 38 NO. 12 LIAHONA 10992 International magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Family Home Evening Ideas Latter-day Saints The First Presidency: Thomas S. Monson, This issue contains articles and activities that could be used for family home evening. Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf The following are two ideas. The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Christofferson, Neil L. Andersen Editor: Craig A. Cardon Advisers: Mervyn B. Arnold, Christoffel Golden, Larry R. Lawrence, James B. Martino, Joseph W. Sitati Managing Director: David T. Warner Director of Operations: Vincent A. Vaughn Director of Church Magazines: Allan R. Loyborg Business Manager: Garff Cannon Managing Editor: R. Val Johnson Assistant Managing Editor: Ryan Carr Publication Assistant: Lisa Carolina López Writing and Editing: Brittany Beattie, David Dickson, David A. Edwards, Matthew D. Flitton, Lori Fuller, Garrett H. Garff, LaRene Porter Gaunt, Mindy Anne Leavitt, Michael R. Morris, Sally Johnson Odekirk, Joshua J. Perkey, Jan Pinborough, Richard M. Romney, Paul VanDenBerghe, Marissa Widdison Editorial Interns: Ethan D. Parry, Cody Phillips Managing Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen Art Director: Tadd R. Peterson “What’s It Like to Be a Brand-New “We Remember and Worship Our Design: Jeanette Andrews, Fay P. Andrus, C. Kimball Bott, Thomas Child, Nate Gines, Colleen Hinckley, Eric P. Johnsen, Convert?” page 50: Consider having Savior, Jesus Christ,” page 68, and “The Susan Lofgren, Scott M. Mooy, Mark W. Robison, Brad a discussion with your family about the First Christmas,” page 74: Celebrate Teare, K. Nicole Walkenhorst Design Intern: Sapansa Wongwiraphab conversion stories shared by members in the Savior’s birth with one of the many Intellectual Property Coordinator: this article. You could also read the list of Christmas-themed activity ideas in this Collette Nebeker Aune Production Manager: Jane Ann Peters 10 challenges that converts face (included issue. For example, you could cut out Production: Kevin C. Banks, Connie Bowthorpe Bridge, Julie Burdett, Bryan W. Gygi, Denise Kirby, Ginny J. Nilson, in the article). As a family, identify the the boxes on page 69 and decide as a Gayle Tate Rafferty new members in your ward or branch or family how you’ll show your love for the Prepress: Jeff L. Martin Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick members who are starting to return to Savior during this Christmas season and Distribution Director: Stephen R. Christiansen Church activity. Then work together to throughout the whole year. You might For subscriptions and prices outside the United States and Canada, go to store.lds. org or contact your local Church create a plan to befriend those members also consider using the script on pages distribution center or ward or branch leader. and support them as they try to find the 74–75 as a guide to help your family act Submit manuscripts and queries online at liahona. lds.org; by email to liahona@ldschurch. org; or by mail to strength to adapt socially and culturally and out the scene of Jesus’s birth. Both of these Liahona, Rm. 2420, 50 E. North Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT 84150-0024, USA. to grow spiritually. activities might help your children learn The Liahona (a Book of Mormon term meaning “compass” how to focus their thoughts on the Savior or “director”) is published in Albanian, Armenian, Bislama, Bulgarian, Cambodian, Cebuano, Chinese, Chinese at Christmastime. 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North Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT 84150, USA; email: cor TOPICS IN THIS ISSUE -intellectualproperty@ldschurch.org. Numbers represent the first page of the article. For Readers in the United States and Canada: December 2014 Vol. 38 No. 12. LIAHONA (USPS 311-480) English (ISSN 1080-9554) is published monthly by The Adversity, 24, 54 Jesus Christ, 4, 7, 12, 36, Sacrament, 48 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 E. North 48, 57, 67, 68, 74, 80 Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT 84150. USA subscription price Apostasy, 30 Scriptures, 30 is $10.00 per year; Canada, $12.00 plus applicable taxes. Christmas, 4, 10, 36, 40, Love, 4, 40, 50 Second Coming, 62 Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt Lake City, Utah. Sixty days’ notice required for change of address. Include address 42, 43, 57, 63, 74, 76, 78 Missionary work, 12, 18, Service, 4, 10, 12, 41, 43, label from a recent issue; old and new address must be Conversion, 42, 50, 63 50, 56, 76 56, 78 included. 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December 2014 3 FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE

By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf Second Counselor in the First Presidency

FILL THE WORLD WITH CHRIST’S LOVE

hen we think of Christmas, we often think of Brother Rudd promised the little boy oatmeal and giving and of receiving gifts. Gifts can be part of maybe something else. Then he went to the bishops’ store- Wa cherished tradition, but they can also detract house and gathered food and other supplies to meet the from the simple dignity of the season and distract us from immediate needs of the family. celebrating the birth of our Savior in a meaningful way. That very morning a generous Latter-day Saint had given I know from personal experience that the most memora- him 50 dollars “for someone in need.” Using that donation, ble Christmases can be those that are the most humble. The Brother Rudd bundled up three of his own children and presents of my childhood were certainly modest by today’s went Christmas shopping—his children selecting toys for standards. Sometimes I received a mended shirt or a pair of the needy children. gloves or socks. I remember one special Christmas when After loading up the car with food, clothing, gifts, a my brother gave me a wooden knife he had carved. Christmas tree, and some ornaments, the Rudds drove to It doesn’t take expensive gifts to make Christmas mean- the family’s apartment. There they helped the mother and ingful. I am reminded of a story told by Elder Glen L. Rudd, her children set up the tree. Then they placed presents who served as a member of the Seventy from 1987 to 1992. under it and presented the little boy with a large package One day before Christmas a number of years ago, while he of oatmeal. was managing a bishops’ storehouse, he learned from an The mother wept, the children rejoiced, and they all ecclesiastical leader about a needy family that had recently sang a Christmas song. That night as the Rudd family gath- moved to the city. When he went to visit their small apart- ered for dinner, they gave thanks that they could bring ment, he discovered a young single mother with four some Christmas cheer to another family and help a little children under age 10. boy receive a bowl of oatmeal.1 The family’s needs were so great that the mother could not buy treats or presents for her children that Christmas— Christ and the Spirit of Giving she couldn’t even afford a tree. Brother Rudd talked with Think of the simple yet dignified way our Heavenly the family and learned that the three little girls would love Father chose to honor the birth of His Son. On that holy a doll or a stuffed animal. When he asked the six-year-old night, angels appeared not to the rich but to shepherds. son what he wanted, the hungry little boy replied, “I would The Christ child was born not in a mansion but in a man- like a bowl of oatmeal.” ger. He was wrapped not in silk but in swaddling clothes.

4 Liahona To those whose souls are burdened with sin, He offers hope, forgiveness, and redemption. If the Savior were among us today, we would find Him where He always was—ministering to the meek, the downcast, the humble, the distressed, and the poor in spirit. During this Christmas season and always, may we give to Him by loving as He loves. May we remember the humble dignity of His birth, gifts, and life. And may we, through simple acts of kindness, charity, and compassion, fill

PHOTOGRAPH OF STARS BY ALEXANDRUM79/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; OF EARTH BY STOCKBYTE; OF BOWL SEREGAM/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; BY ALEXANDRUM79/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; OF EARTH PHOTOGRAPH OF STARS BY LISAISON/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; OF SPOON OKEA/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK OF OATMEAL the world with the light of His love and healing power. ◼ The simplicity of that first sorrow, He brings compassion and NOTE Christmas foreshadowed the life of comfort. To those whose bodies and 1. See Glen L. Rudd, Pure Religion: The Story the Savior. Though He had created minds are afflicted with illness and of Church Welfare since 1930 (1995), 352–53; see also Glen L. Rudd, “A Bowl of the earth, walked in realms of maj- suffering, He brings love and healing. Oatmeal,” Church News, Dec. 2, 2006, 16. esty and glory, and stood at the right hand of the Father, He came to earth as a helpless child. His life was a TEACHING FROM THIS MESSAGE model of modest nobility, and He resident Uchtdorf teaches that we should follow the Savior’s pattern of walked among the poor, the sick, the Pgiving. Consider asking the people you visit to take turns naming a gift downcast, and the heavy laden. the Savior has given to them, and discuss how they can use that gift to serve Though He was a king, He cared others. For example, if a member was blessed with musical training, he or she neither for the honors nor the riches could go caroling to some of the neighbors. You could offer to kneel in prayer of men. His life, His words, and His with those you visit, asking for inspiration about which gifts to share, how to daily activities were monuments of share them, and with whom. Follow up on any inspiration you receive. simple yet profound dignity. For ideas on teaching this message to youth and children, see page 6. Jesus the Christ, who knew perfectly how to give, set for us the pattern for giving. To those whose hearts are heavy with loneliness and

December 2014 5 YOUTH

Learn from Others’ Experience resident Uchtdorf speaks from personal experience when members of your ward or branch to tell you about their most P he teaches that “the most memorable Christmases can be meaningful Christmas. You could write down their stories. Try those that are the most humble.” We can learn so much from to learn from their example by focusing this Christmas more the older generation; many adults have lived through times on giving sincere service and remembering the Savior. of war, unemployment, sickness, or other trials. Ask the older

CHILDREN

Gifts from Jesus Christ ome people use a Christmas tree to celebrate Sthe birth of Jesus Christ. Sometimes people place gifts for others under the tree. What gifts has the Savior given to you? Read each scripture below and color in the gift. You can give gifts back to Jesus by finding ways to help others. 2 Nephi 2:8 John 14:27

Psalm 33:6 3 Nephi 15:9 John 15:9 ILLUSTRATION OF PRESENTS BY ALEKSBOND/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK ILLUSTRATION

6 Liahona VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE

Prayerfully study this material and seek to know what to share. How will understanding the life Faith, Family, Relief and roles of the Savior increase your faith in Him and bless those you watch over through visiting teaching? For more information, go to reliefsociety.lds.org.

The Divine From the Scriptures Isaiah prophesied of the Mission of Jesus birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince Christ: Prince of Peace (see Isaiah 9:6). In the Americas, Samuel the Lamanite of Peace told of signs that would accompany Christ’s birth five years later (see Helaman 14:3, 5). As This is part of a series of Visiting Teaching Messages featuring aspects of the mission of the prophesied day approached, the Savior. unbelievers threatened to exe- cute all the Christians if these he Savior is the source of true Tpeace,” said Elder Quentin L. signs did not occur. The prophet Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Nephi “cried mightily unto the Apostles. “Even with the trials of life, Lord all that day; and behold, the because of the Savior’s Atonement voice of the Lord came unto him, and His grace, righteous living will saying: . . . On the morrow come be rewarded with personal peace.” 1 my burdens light. He has helped me I into the world” (3 Nephi 1:12– 2 Understanding that Jesus Christ is the to feel great peace.” 13). The signs appeared, and with Elder Richard G. Scott of the Prince of Peace can help us find inner the birth of Christ, “the people Quorum of the Twelve Apostles peace and increase our faith in Him. began again to have peace in the taught: “The ideal place for . . . Jesus Christ said: “These things I land” (verse 23). peace is within the walls of our own have spoken unto you, that in me ye In Bethlehem, Mary “brought might have peace. In the world ye homes, where we have done all we forth her firstborn son, and shall have tribulation: but be of good can to make the Lord Jesus Christ the 3 wrapped him in swaddling cheer; I have overcome the world” centerpiece.” clothes, and laid him in a man- ( John 16:33). Bearing testimony of that truth, Linda S. Reeves, second Additional Scriptures ger” (Luke 2:7). counselor in the Relief Society general Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2:14; John 14:27; presidency, said: “The Lord has been 1 Nephi 13:37; Doctrine and merciful to me and has helped make Covenants 59:23

Consider This In what ways does the Savior bring peace to your life? BY JOSEPH BRICKEY NOTES 1. Quentin L. Cook, “Personal Peace: The Reward of Righteousness,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 35. 2. Linda S. Reeves, “Claim the Blessings of A SAVIOR IS BORN, A SAVIOR Your Covenants,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 120. 3. Richard G. Scott, “For Peace at Home,”

DETAIL FROM DETAIL Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 29.

December 2014 7 WHAT WE BELIEVE

TITHING HELPS BUILD UP We believe in paying tithing will- ingly, “for God loveth a cheerful giver” THE KINGDOM OF GOD (2 Corinthians 9:7). Paying tithing is a way we can help build up the kingdom of God on earth and show gratitude to Heavenly Father for blessing e believe in giving one-tenth of commandment through the Prophet us with everything we have. Yet pay- Wour income to the Lord to help Joseph Smith (see D&C 119). ing tithing brings more blessings into build up His kingdom. The law of tith- To fulfill this commandment, we our lives. As Malachi taught: “Bring ye ing requires that we sacrifice some of give one-tenth of our income to the all the tithes into the storehouse, that our material goods in order to enjoy Lord through local priesthood leaders. there may be meat in mine house, greater spiritual blessings. The funds are transmitted to Church and prove me now herewith, saith the The principle of tithing has been headquarters, where a council compris- Lord of hosts, if I will not open you practiced since the gospel was first ing the First Presidency, the Quorum of the windows of heaven, and pour you taught on earth. Abraham, for exam- the Twelve Apostles, and the Presiding out a blessing, that there shall not be ple, paid tithes to the high priest Bishopric determines how the sacred room enough to receive it” (Malachi Melchizedek (see Genesis 14:18–20). funds will be used (see D&C 120). 3:10). Spiritual and temporal blessings The Lord commanded Moses to Tithing allows the Church to build can come to all who pay an honest teach the people about tithing (see and maintain temples and meeting- tithe, even if the amount is small. ◼ Leviticus 27:30–34). Later, when the houses, to support seminaries and insti- For more information, see Genesis 28:20–22; Savior visited the Nephites, He gave tutes, to provide materials for Church Malachi 3:8–11; and chapter 12 in Teachings them the law of tithing (see 3 Nephi members, and to sustain missionary, of Presidents of the Church: Lorenzo Snow 24). And in our day, He restored this temple, and family history work. (2012).

BLESSINGS OF PAYING TITHING

“Tithing develops “Tithing also teaches us to con- promises an abundance of blessings. and tests our faith. trol our desires and passions for the Some of these blessings are tempo- By sacrificing to the things of this world. Payment of ral, just as tithes are temporal. But Lord what we may tithing encourages us to be honest in like the outward physical ordinances think we need or our dealings with our fellowmen. We of baptism and the sacrament, the want for ourselves, learn to trust that what we have been commandment to pay tithing requires we learn to rely given, through the blessings of the temporal sacrifice, which ultimately on Him. Our faith in Him makes Lord and our own diligent efforts, is yields great spiritual blessings.” it possible to keep temple cov- sufficient for our needs. . . . Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the enants and receive eternal temple “To those who faithfully and hon- Twelve Apostles, “Tithing: A Test of Faith with Eternal Blessings,” Ensign or Liahona, blessings. . . . estly live the law of tithing, the Lord Nov. 2002, 27.

8 Liahona Tithing and other donations are given to the Lord through a member of your bishopric or branch presidency. Tithing pays for the cost of building and maintaining temples and meetinghouses.

Tithing pays for the translation and publication of scriptures and lesson materials.

Tithing helps pay for educating young members in Church Tithing funds are transmitted schools, seminaries, from wards and branches to and institutes of Church headquarters, where a religion. council that includes the First Presidency decides how these sacred funds will be used. ILLUSTRATIONS BY DAVID HABBEN BY DAVID ILLUSTRATIONS

December 2014 9 REFLECTIONS

A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE By Lindsay Alder

His heart beats still. Not as well as it did before the heart attack. But it beats still.

coziness comes from knowing that true friends were willing to drop their own Christmas Eve plans to come decorate when Brian moved from the intensive care unit. The three-foot (1 m) Christmas tree stands in the window as a symbol of their love. How can I thank our friends? Will they ever know how much I needed them and how grateful I am? While my thoughts were turned to nothing but my husband, they were loving my children, scrubbing my house, restocking my fridge, doing my laun- dry, wrapping our Christmas presents, and bringing love to me through hugs, dinners, gift cards, cash, phone calls, texts, emails, messages, bags of cinnamon-scented pine cones, and a suitcase full of decorations. They cried y heart feels warm tonight. and found a spot among all the wires with me and prayed and fasted. And MBroken, bruised, torn, certainly. hooked to his chest where I could rest in doing all of this, they gave me the But beautifully warm. I feel intense my head. Listening to his heartbeat in most precious gift they could have gratitude—gratitude so deep and my ear was an experience that will be given: their time. How I love them all! encompassing that it seems a new hole burned into my memory forever. I think I will sleep well tonight, for has opened in my soul to make room, His heart beats still. Not as well as I am wrapped in a seemingly endless gratitude so filling and so personal that it did before the heart attack. But it field of gratitude for all of them. it won’t stop coursing down my cheeks beats still. But mostly I feel gratitude to the in silent tears. My husband is breathing. The warm lights from the Christmas Lord for my husband’s life—his deep I can hear it, deep and soft. strands strung across the room make breathing, his heart pumping blood, Just a couple of hours ago, I climbed me feel cozy tonight in more than his living body and soul. His life is my into his hospital bed, ignoring the gen- one way. Their soft glow creates a Christmas miracle. ◼

tle kicks from our soon-to-arrive baby, comforting atmosphere, but the real The author lives in North Carolina, USA. BY JULIE ROGERS ILLUSTRATION

10 Liahona OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS

MALACHI “[Jesus] commanded them that they should write the words which the Father had given unto Malachi” (3 Nephi 24:1).

y name means “my messen- to forgive because He loved His peo- stubble” but unto those who fear His Mger,” and as such I relayed the ple: “Return unto me, and I will return name “shall the Sun of righteousness “burden of the word of the Lord to unto you.” 6 One way to return unto arise with healing in his wings.” 10 Israel.” 1 In my day, about 450 years the Lord was to bring “all the tithes I prophesied that before the before Christ’s birth,2 many of the into the storehouse.” 7 Second Coming, the prophet Elijah Jews became discouraged and had The people complained, “It is vain would come to restore the priesthood stopped living righteously.3 The Lord to serve God: . . . they that work wick- keys that would “turn the heart of the rebuked them through my teachings. edness are set up [prosperous],” 8 but fathers to the children, and the heart Jewish priests from the tribe of I taught that the names of those who of the children to their fathers.” 11 Levi were normally dedicated to “feared the Lord . . . and that thought Through my teachings, we see that providing ordinances, but the Levites upon his name” were written in a the Lord remembers His people and were corrupt in my time. They were “book of remembrance.” 9 keeps His promises to His faithful ungrateful, refused to honor God, and I also prophesied that at the Lord’s children. He wants us to have faith in offered polluted bread and imperfect Second Coming, the wicked “shall be these promises and, through repen- animal sacrifices.4 They had broken tance, return unto Him.12 ◼ the priesthood covenant God NOTES 1. Malachi 1:1. had made with Levi. 2. See Bible Dictionary, “Malachi,” The people—not 728. 3. See Old Testament Seminary only the priests—were Student Study Guide (2002), 193. 4. See Malachi 1:2, 6–14; see also corrupt as well. They Old Testament Instructor’s were marrying out- Guide, Religion 301–2 (1994), 109–110. side of the covenant, 5. See Malachi 2:11, 14–16; 3:8. 6. Malachi 3:7. divorcing the wives 7. Malachi 3:10; see also of their youth, and LeGrand Richards, “The Second Coming of Christ,” refusing to pay Ensign, May 1978, 75. 8. Malachi 3:14–15. their tithes and 9. Malachi 3:16. offerings.5 10. Malachi 4:1–2. 11. Malachi 4:6; But even as the see also Doctrine and Lord spoke against Covenants 110. these evil prac- 12. See Old Testament Teacher Resource

PHOTOGRAPH OF STONES BY PAVLO VAKRUSHEV/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; VAKRUSHEV/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; PHOTOGRAPH OF STONES BY PAVLO BY AKSPHOTO/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK PHOTOGRAPH OF DATES tices, He was willing Manual (2003), 215.

December 2014 11 By Elder L. Tom Perry Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

HELPING OTHERS FIND Faith in Christ I challenge you to help God’s children return to their Christian faith and to the strong religious foundation that is so essential for peace of mind and real happiness.

ope Benedict XVI, lamenting the weakening of Christian churches in Europe, Australia, and the United States, said, “There’s no longer evidence for a need of God, even less of Christ.” He added, “The so-called traditional P 1 churches look like they are dying.” We have moved away from traditional worship. More people say they are spiritual rather than religious. If a teaching fits their lifestyle, they accept it and it becomes part of their faith. If it does not, they develop their own man-made faith. Faith and spirituality are now viewed as consumer products. Materialism has taken over and replaced God. As Latter-day Saints, our voices must be heard in opposition to these The best- dangerous trends designed to destroy the faith of mankind. The Book recorded fact of Mormon warns us over and over about replacing our trust in God in all history is with things that do not last. Describing a time when many Nephites the account of

were drifting from their faith, Mormon states: “They grew proud, being the birth and LINDSLEY BY DAVID lifted up in their hearts, because of their exceedingly great riches; mission of the therefore they grew rich in their own eyes, and would not give heed to Lord Jesus Christ

[the prophets’] words, to walk uprightly before God” (Alma 45:24). on the earth. THE HEALING BALM,

12 Liahona

Sacrifices were insti- As you see the weakening of Christian foundation, a foundation whereon if men tuted on the earth as faith in society, your own faith must become build they cannot fall” (Helaman 5:12). a gospel ordinance, more firm and sure. Helaman declares: Nephi reminds us: to be practiced and “Remember that it is upon the rock of our “We talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we performed by the Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and authority of the that ye must build your foundation; that we write according to our prophecies, that priesthood, typifying when the devil shall send forth his mighty our children may know to what source they the coming sacrifice winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, may look for a remission of their sins . . . of the Son of Man, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall [and] that life which is in Christ. . . . who would give His life for the sins beat upon you, it shall have no power over “. . . For the right way is to believe in of the world. you to drag you down to the gulf of mis- Christ” (2 Nephi 25:26–28). ery and endless wo, because of the rock Do we have a foundation to support such upon which ye are built, which is a sure a claim?

14 Liahona The Symbols of Christ’s Sacrifice make immortality possible remained in many hearts. The best-recorded fact in all history is the account of the The offering of sacrifices generally ended as a practice birth and mission of the Lord Jesus Christ on the earth. His after the Savior’s Atonement. The sacrament was instituted mission was prophesied from the days of our first parents. to remind His followers that He had been to earth and had In the book of Moses we read: performed His earthly ministry. We read in Luke: “And Adam and Eve, his wife, called upon the name of “And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and the Lord, and they heard the voice of the Lord from the gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for way toward the Garden of Eden, speaking unto them, and you: this do in remembrance of me. they saw him not; for they were shut out from his presence. “Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup “And he gave unto them commandments, that they is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you” should worship the Lord their God, and should offer the (Luke 22:19–20). firstlings of their flocks, for an offering unto the Lord. And Once again I am amazed that this reminder, even Adam was obedient unto the commandments of the Lord. through dark periods of apostasy, was practiced in many “And after many days an angel of the Lord appeared forms and in many ways throughout generations until the unto Adam, saying: Why dost thou offer sacrifices unto the time of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, when Lord? And Adam said unto him: I know not, save the Lord priesthood power was restored to earth to perform this commanded me. sacred, saving ordinance. “And then the angel spake, saying: This thing is a simil- Through all periods of recorded history we find the itude of the sacrifice of the Only Begotten of the Father, constant reminder of the mission of our Savior. He came to BY KEITH LARSON which is full of grace and truth. earth as one who had a dual citizenship—one of God and “Wherefore, thou shalt do all that thou doest in the one of man. This enabled Him to perform His great enno- name of the Son, and thou shalt repent and call upon God bling sacrifice for all of us through His Atonement. Could in the name of the Son forevermore” (Moses 5:4–8). there be any stronger proof that Jesus is the Christ, the Thus, sacrifices were instituted on the earth as a gospel Savior of the world, than by studying and living His saving

ADAM AND EVE OFFERING SACRIFICES, ordinance, to be practiced and performed by the authority doctrines, which He has revealed throughout the dispensa- of the priesthood, typifying the coming sacrifice of the Son tions of the world? He has given us His gospel to guide and of Man, who would give His life for the sins of the world. direct us during our earthly sojourn. The form of the ordinance was arranged to make specific the points of the Lord’s sacrifice when He would come in The Gospel Is the Solution the meridian of time. The later offering of the Passover, for President David O. McKay (1873–1970) said: instance, stipulated that a male lamb of the first year, with- “The responsibility of showing to the world that the out spot or blemish, be chosen as an offering. The blood was gospel of Jesus Christ will solve its problems rests upon spilled and care was taken that no bones would be broken— the men who make the claim. . . . I believe, too, that every all symbolic of the manner of the Savior’s death. world problem may be solved by obedience to the principles It is amazing that the offering of sacrifice continued of the gospel of Jesus Christ. through all ages from Adam until the time of the Savior. Even “The solution of the great world problems is here in though the children of Israel went through many periods of the Church of Jesus Christ. Ample provision is made not apostasy, the hope that the Only Begotten Son would atone only for the needs of individuals, but also for the nation for the sins of mankind and that His atoning blood would and groups of nations. . . . I grant that we may seem to

December 2014 15 be arrogating to ourselves superior wisdom, but we are suggested four things we could do to bring others back not. It is simply the application of God’s plan to the world to their Christian faith: problems. You who hold the priesthood have greater 1. Pray daily. responsibility today, now that you live in this creative President Thomas S. Monson has said: “To those moment in the world’s history, than ever the Church has within the sound of my voice who are struggling with had before. I repeat it. If we make the claim to hold the challenges and difficulties large and small, prayer is the truth, it is obligatory upon every Latter-day Saint so to provider of spiritual strength. . . . Prayer is the means by live, that when the people of the world come, in answer which we approach our Father in Heaven, who loves us. to the call, to test the fruit of the tree, they will find it Speak to Him in prayer and then listen for the answer. wholesome and good.” 2 Miracles are wrought through prayer. . . . Remember to The great message we carry to the world is that the gos- pray fervently.” 3 pel of our Lord and Savior has been restored to the earth. Hold your daily prayers and help others return to their His Church is again on the earth with the power and glory Christian faith by encouraging them to get on their knees of the holy priesthood.

and pray to God. BY JEREMY WINBORG To those so ordained is given power to act for Him as His agents to bring the doctrines, ordinances, principles, 2. Study the scriptures daily. and powers to bind on earth as will be done in the heav- Could there be any stronger witness of Jesus Christ than ens. This is the Savior’s Church. He directs the affairs of His the testimonies we find in the Book of Mormon? Of its 239

Church through His chosen prophets. His prophets in turn chapters, 233 mention the Savior.4 Isn’t that amazing? KING BENJAMIN’S ADDRESS, teach the gospel to others and testify of Jesus as our Savior Be certain you have daily scripture study. Then help and Redeemer. This day and age is the dispensation of the others return to their Christian faith by encouraging them fulness of times, which has been spoken of by the proph- to also study the scriptures daily. ets from the beginning of time. It is the time of fulfillment 3. Remain worthy to attend the temple. of all that has been spoken of by the Lord’s prophets and Some of you have been to the temple; others have recorded in the holy scriptures. The Church of Jesus Christ not. It is well to understand what is required to obtain a of Latter-day Saints is not a new church but the restored temple recommend. We understand clearly the process by Church to the world in this day and age. which we go to a judge in Israel and confirm to him our You are the generation the Lord has saved for this day. worthiness to hold a temple recommend and then live by You came out of the waters of baptism with a covenant and the standards required to keep that recommend. a promise to the Lord to represent Him in helping people Live in such a way that your righteous example will throw off their worldly ways and return to the blessings demonstrate how to be worthy of temple blessings. promised us if we would follow Him and live His gospel. You can help your Heavenly Father’s children return to 4. Give daily acts of service. their Christian foundation, develop faith in Him, and return Remember the words of King Benjamin: “And behold, I to His ways. tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings What You Can Do ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17). The You may ask, “What can I do?” Some months ago Lord literally answers our prayers through the service we our stake president, speaking in sacrament meeting, give to others.

16 Liahona BY JEREMY WINBORG KING BENJAMIN’S ADDRESS,

Be an example of Christlike service, and I challenge you to rise to a new sense of Could there be any help others return to their Christian faith by commitment. I challenge you to help God’s stronger witness encouraging them to serve others. children return to their Christian faith and of Jesus Christ than to the strong religious foundation that is so the testimonies we Rise to a New Sense of Commitment essential for peace of mind and real happi- find in the Book of I know that God lives. I know that we are ness in this period of mortal probation. Mormon? Of its 239 all His children and that He loves us. I know May God bless you with the courage, chapters, 233 men- that He sent His Son to the world to be the boldness, enthusiasm, and desire to restore tion the Savior. atoning sacrifice for all mankind. I know that faith in the gospel of our Lord and Savior. ◼ those who embrace His gospel and follow From a Church Educational System fireside address, “We Were the Greatest Generation,” delivered at Brigham Young Him will enjoy eternal life, the greatest of University on March 6, 2011. For the full address, go to all the gifts of God. I know that the Savior cesdevotionals.lds.org. NOTES directed the Restoration of the gospel on 1. Pope Benedict XVI, in Noelle Knox, “Religion Takes a Back Seat in Western Europe,” USA Today, Aug. 10, earth through the ministry of the Prophet 2005; usatoday.com/news/world/2005-08-10-europe- Joseph Smith. I know that the only lasting joy religion-cover_x.htm. 2. David O. McKay, Gospel Ideals (1953), 5; emphasis in and happiness we will ever find during our original. 3. Thomas S. Monson, “Be Your Best Self,” Ensign or mortal experience will come by following Liahona, May 2009, 68, 69. Jesus Christ, obeying His law, and keeping 4. See Robert J. Matthews, in The Book of Mormon: The Keystone Scripture, ed. Paul R. Cheesman and others His commandments. (1988), 33.

December 2014 17

PIONEERS IN EVERY LAND

THE CHURCH IN Sweden : GROWTH, EMIGRATION, AND STRENGTH The Church in Sweden has weathered emigration of faithful members, unfavorable media reports, and an increasingly secular environment, but the Lord is hastening His work in this choice land.

By Inger Höglund

n 1849, President Brigham Young called a small num- day of July a man will come to you with three books and ber of men to travel to various parts of the world all those that believe in the things written in those books Ito preach the gospel. A former Swedish sailor, John shall be saved.” When her brother arrived with the Bible, Forsgren, who had joined the Church in Massachusetts, the Book of Mormon, and the Doctrine and Covenants, USA, and traveled to the Salt Lake Valley, asked President she believed his testimony without question.1 Young to be sent to Sweden as a missionary. He was called Unfortunately, Elder Forsgren had to leave the country to serve and arrived in Sweden in June 1850. after just three months. Within a few years other mis- Elder Forsgren first visited his younger siblings in Gävle. sionaries were sent to Sweden. They found the people His brother Peter was ill, and doctors said he was beyond in Skönabäck, in the province of Skåne, receptive to the help. Elder Forsgren explained the purpose of his mission gospel. So many were converted that the first branch was to his siblings, then anointed and blessed Peter, who was organized there in 1853 with 36 members. One of the first restored to full health. On July 19, 1850, Elder Forsgren leaders in Skåne was Carl Capson, called as the branch baptized his brother, who became the first convert in president in Lund. Around 100 members attended the first Sweden. Church conference in Carl’s barn, which was held at night Elder Forsgren’s sister, Erika, had an interesting experi- to avoid persecution.2 ence that prepared her and Peter to receive the gospel. A few months before her brother’s arrival, she was attending Women of Faith church, as was her custom. During the singing of a hymn, Women who received the gospel became pillars of

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL ELLEHAMMER, EXCEPT AS NOTED; TOP LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH BY PINKBADGER/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; CENTER PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL ELLEHAMMER, EXCEPT AS NOTED; TOP LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH BY ADISA/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK BENSON VISITING STOCKHOLM; BOTTOM LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH OF EZRA TAFT LEFT: she saw a person stand before her and say, “On the fifth strength in Sweden. One example is Britta Olsdotter

December 2014 19 would say to herself, “God should not have to wait.” She would sing a song, say a prayer, give a little talk, and then finish with another song and prayer. When she had occasion to travel to Stockholm by train, Sister Munter would pass out tracts about the Church. Her legacy of faith continues: several of her descendants have returned to Sweden as missionaries.3 Missionaries also visited Smedjebacken, in the province of Dalarna. Among others, a Jansson family became mem- Members in Västerås met in this home in the 1950s. bers of the Church in 1886. A descendant of that family was Reid Johnson, a missionary who arrived in Sweden after the Second World War. He returned several times after his

► 1904: Known 1850: First mission- 1853: First by its address, ary, John Forsgren, branch, 1854: ◄ 1878: Book of Svartensgatan 3, arrives in Sweden; Skönabäck Stockholm Mormon trans- the first Church first converts, Peter ► Branch, estab- Branch lated and printed building pur- and Erika Forsgren, lished with 36 established in Swedish chased in Sweden TIME LINE baptized members (shown here in 1946)

Persson, the first person to embrace the gospel in Vingåker. mission—as mission president, regional representative, and In 1877, to help support her family, she traveled to temple president. The Jansson family also produced the Stockholm to sell her weaving. There she met the mission- wife of a prophet, Sister Frances Monson. aries and realized that they were teaching the truth and was baptized, at age 50. Overcoming Persecution Her conversion and valiant labor to promote the Lord’s For decades, persecution of Church members was severe. work eventually led to more baptisms, and a branch was Many missionaries landed in prison, including Mikael established in Vingåker. Her descendants are still active in Jonsson, a native Swede. He was arrested in 1852 and was the Church. Sister Persson’s great-great-granddaughter Laila brought in chains 480 miles (770 km) to Malmö, where he Krylborn remarked, “It is wonderful to see what has hap- was thrown in the castle prison, exhausted from hunger and pened in our children’s and grandchildren’s generations. privation. He was visited by a priest, who found that Elder Now our families have several priesthood holders and Jonsson was an intelligent man with some education. The missionaries.” priest declared that he was willing to help him and even Another pioneer woman was Lovisa Munter of Uppsala. promised him further education—on the condition that She became a member in 1886 and was faithful until her he join the Lutheran faith and deny “Mormonism.” Elder death at 91 years of age. On many Sundays she went to Jonsson would not deny his faith, so he was deported.4 the meeting hall, turned on the light, and waited for other Another faithful missionary was Carl A. Carlquist, born

members to come. Often no one came. At 11:00 a.m. she near Vänersborg in 1857. At age 17, he felt a strong desire LIBRARY; BRANCH MEETINGHOUSE AND MISSIONARIES COURTESY OF CHURCH HISTORY PHOTOGRAPH OF VÄSTERÅS PHOTOGRAPH OF PETER FORSGREN COURTESY OF SUSAN EASTON BLACK

20 Liahona to preach the gospel and was called to distribute Church leaders encouraged this emigration to strengthen the Church tracts around Jönköping. He was poor, so members of his there. The results of that emigration can be seen today: branch, seven widows and their children, obtained a suit about half of Utah’s inhabitants have Scandinavian roots. coat and boots for him. Carl didn’t own an overcoat when However, in 1910, President Joseph F. Smith visited the winter season came, but he was allowed to borrow one Stockholm and encouraged members to stay and build up a few hours every day from some of the members when the Church in Sweden. they didn’t need theirs.5 Carl later emigrated to Utah and married Hulda The Church after World War II Östergren, a Swedish immigrant. He returned to Sweden When the Second World War erupted, all American two more times on missions, including as mission president missionaries had to return home. Local Swedish men were of the Scandinavian Mission. Much of his last mission was then asked to serve as missionaries. C. Fritz Johansson, spent correcting false reports published about the Church who had joined the Church in 1931, was called as the new

1914: Swedish 1952: New law guar- ► 1905: parliament mem- 1926: Church antees freedom for all Sweden bers vote against receives legal non-state churches; Mission a proposal to expel permission to the Church receives organized “Mormon agents” perform burials legal permission to from the country of its members perform marriages for its members

by Reverend P. E. Åslev, a pastor who had lived in Salt Lake mission president. One year before the war, he sold his City and was hired to promote anti-Mormon sentiment in grocery store business and became a missionary with his Sweden. For instance, in 1912, Åslev wrote an article in the wife and three children. When the war was over, President newspaper Svenska Dagbladet in which he claimed that Johansson and seven missionaries from Sweden were Brother Carlquist was a polygamist.6 Carl’s efforts included called to reopen missionary work in Finland, which had meeting with King Gustaf V and refuting Åslev’s claims in stopped because of the war. public meetings.7 When American missionaries returned to Sweden in To help combat Åslev’s claims, a local member, Einar 1946, they held English classes as a part of their mission- Johansson, offered to speak for the Church. He initiated ary work, and many of their students became members of legal proceedings since Åslev had also said that the Church the Church. The growth didn’t last long, however, because mission office “was a white-slavery business,” a libelous many Swedish members emigrated to Utah. Fear of their claim.8 Brother Johansson came to mean much as a leader former enemies, encouragement by the mission president, for the Church in Sweden, including as a branch president and the chance to receive their temple ordinances moti- in Stockholm.9 vated 250 active members to leave Sweden between 1948 Despite persecution in this era, many became converted and 1950. to the gospel. The most successful year to date was 1862, Such a family was Oskar and Albertina Andersson, who when 640 persons were baptized and confirmed. Most of became members of the Church in 1915. After World War II, the converts, however, soon traveled to Utah. At the time, Oskar, Albertina, and seven of their children who had

December 2014 21 married members made the heart-rending The members felt boundless joy when decision to sell all they owned and “travel a temple was built in Stockholm and dedi- to Zion.” From 1949 to 1950, 29 members of cated in 1985. Berit Vennerholm, a member the Andersson family left Sweden. Oskar and of the Västerhaninge Ward, describes the Albertina left their home, three children, and dedication as “a much-longed for and glori- four grandchildren, whom they would never ous experience. What I remember most was see again. They arrived in a desert and a city when we all waved with our white handker- where the people spoke a language they did chiefs and exclaimed, ‘Hosanna!’” not understand. But for these faithful mem- The choice of a temple lot shows the bers, being close to the temple was more hand of the Lord in the process. After many important than anything else. discussions with several municipalities in the Members of the Andersson family have Stockholm area, two suitable lots were found.

THE CHURCH IN SWEDEN ◄ 1955: First group 1965: First meeting- Missions: 1 1953: First member couple, Bengt-Arne Månhammar of Swedish house built by the Stakes: 4 and Kerstin Skog, are mar- members Church dedicated Districts: 1 ried by the mission president travel to the in Gubbängen, Wards: 24 Clarence F. Johnson temple in Bern, Stockholm Branches: 16 Switzerland Members: 9,463

since served as missionaries and Church leaders in all parts of the world, including as an Area President in Africa and a temple president in Sweden. Yet other members of the Church decided to stay in Sweden and became leaders. Such a one is Bo Wennerlund, a young father who was baptized in 1949. He became an important Church leader in Sweden, serving as a mission president, regional representative, and temple president.

Temple Blessings in Sweden Emigration largely ceased when a temple was dedicated in Switzerland in 1955. For 30 The Mormon Tabernacle Choir performed in the years the Swedish members made the several- Stockholm Concert Hall in 1982. day journey there by train, by bus, by car, and even by air—sometimes several times a year.

22 Liahona A committee of local Church leaders suggested one of dispersing them from their native lands. There is a veritable them, but the President of the Church decided that the other hastening of work in our day in this choice land.” would be better. This decision has proven to be inspired, The Church also grows among the members. Multi-stake since the other lot later proved to be unsuitable for a temple. conferences attract many young people from neighboring Although the Church has struggled to receive positive countries and contribute to the building of new families. attention in Swedish media, one time it did was in 1984, The government’s generous child allowances and paid when the young brothers in the Herrey family won the leave for new parents make it possible for couples to have largest singing contest in Europe. Their appearance on tele- fairly large families. vision and in newspapers gave the Church good publicity, Today, most of the active young members serve mis- and many young people joined the Church at this time. sions all over the world. One returned missionary, David In the late 1980s, another member who received good Halldén, the first missionary in Yekaterinburg, Russia, press coverage was the 35-year-old U.S. ambassador to today has a wonderful family with six children. He relates

1975: First 1991: First ◄ 1995: King stake orga- ◄ 1985: members from Carl XVI Gustaf nized, in Stockholm Russia come to and Queen Silvia Stockholm, Temple dedicated the Stockholm hosted by President by then-Elder by President Temple; Russia and Thomas S. Monson Thomas S. Gordon B. the Baltic states on Stockholm Monson Hinckley included in the Temple grounds temple district

Sweden, Gregory Newell, who was often seen in various how the gospel helps his family: “There are so many public events. He and his wife returned to Sweden in 2011 to voices that can lead children astray. The gospel helps us preside over the Sweden Stockholm Mission until July 2014. to strengthen them and get their confidence.” President Newell presided over a growing number Despite the secular environment and some bad of missionaries, from 84 to 205. Because apartments are publicity, many faithful members and strong Church lead- CHURCH NEWS scarce and expensive in Sweden, he describes it as “a ers live in Sweden. The members appreciate the help miracle that the mission was able to find an additional 56 that Church teachings and activities give to families and apartments for our newly arriving missionaries.” individuals, and it is their great wish that many more would receive the joyful message of Jesus Christ and Real Growth His Atonement. ◼ In the post-war era, Sweden has become an increasingly The author lives in Sweden. secular country. There are, however, many immigrants who NOTES 1. See Box Elder Lore of the Nineteenth Century (1951), 58. are seeking God. Every sixth Swede today was born out 2. See Andrew Jenson, History of the Scandinavian Mission (1979), 81. of the country. A majority of those who join the Church in 3. See Inger Höglund and Caj-Aage Johansson, Steg i tro (2000), 122. 4. See Jenson, History of the Scandinavian Mission, 53. Sweden are immigrants. President Newell described some 5. See Myrtle McDonald, No Regrets: The Life of Carl A. Carlquist (1985), 19–21. recent converts: “Brothers and sisters from 28 different 6. See McDonald, No Regrets, 219. countries have been converted to the Church in Sweden. I 7. See Jenson, History of the Scandinavian Mission, 331. 8. In McDonald, No Regrets, 239.

RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH OF PRESIDENT MONSON VISITING WITH THE KING COURTESY OF RIGHT: have expressed my view that the Lord is gathering Israel by 9. See McDonald, No Regrets, 219.

December 2014 23 I system thatexists there. Iwishto brieflyshare four ofthoselessons. forests. some significantlessonsfromtheeco Acarefulobserver canlearn involving imagery trees,of scriptural branches, roots, seeds, fruits, and on thebenchesprovided there, Ihave ontheabundance reflected often and asthosefinishingtheirmissionsdeparted, we tookthemthere. sacredness. We went thereoften. Eachmonthasnew missionariesarrived Sacred Grove. oftheChurch—aplacewe place inthehistory honorwiththename gospel inthisfinaldispensation. Italsomadethatgrove oftreesarevered prayer religion, toknowconcerning thetruth begantheRestorationof His Son, JesusChrist. This divinemanifestation, inresponsetoJoseph’s near Palmyra, 14-year-old JosephSmithsaw invisionGodtheFatherand milewest about aquarter oftheJosephandLucyMackSmithfamilyhome sacred by whathappenedthere. lakes andstreams;warm, people. colorful Itisalsoaplacemade nized inApril1830). lived duringmuchofthe1820s) andFayette (wheretheChurchwas orga In agrove oftowering beeches, oaks, maples, andothertreeslocated country,It ispicturesque by rolling, characterized wooded hills;clear As Ihave reverently walked through theSacredGrove orsatinthought My familyandIcametolove thatgrove oftreesandtofeel ofits includes thetown ofPalmyra (whereJoseph Smithandhisfamily asked toserve intheNew York Rochester Mission. That mission n 1993, four years mycalltotheSeventy, after myfamilyandIwere Grove Sacred 1989 to2012 of theSeventyfrom Served asamember Marlin K. Jensen Elder LESSONS FROM THE

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROYCE BAIR I encourage you to stand always in your minds and hearts in the Sacred Grove and live true to the truths that God began to reveal there. 1. Trees always grow toward the light. I urge you to avoid the darkness of sin in all its In the Sacred Grove, the trees growing on the edge of vile forms and to fill your lives with Spirit, truth, and the original forest and lining many of the interior pathways the light of our Savior, Jesus Christ. You can do this have grown outward to escape the overshadowing foliage by seeking noble friends, inspiring music and art, above them and then upward to absorb the greatest pos- knowledge out of the best books (especially the sible sunlight. Their crooked trunks and branches stand in scriptures), moments of sincere prayer, quiet times in stark contrast to neighboring trees that grow almost per- nature, wholesome activities and conversations, and fectly straight. Trees, like almost all living organisms, a life centered on Christ and His teachings of love need light to survive and thrive. They will do all in their and service. power to soak in as much sunlight as possible to promote photosynthesis—the process of converting light energy into chemical energy. Light is an even more important catalyst in the spiritual realm than it is in nature. This is so because light is essential to our spiritual growth and the realization of our full potential as God’s sons and daughters. Darkness is the opposite of light and represents the forces in the world that seek to separate us from God and to frustrate His divine plan for our lives. It is usually after dark or in dark places that the forces of evil exert their greatest influence. Breaches of the law of chastity, acts of stealing, violations of the Word of Wisdom, and other behaviors forbidden by our Heavenly Father usually occur under cover of darkness. Even when we choose to do wrong during broad daylight, we can’t help but have feel- 2. Trees require opposition to fulfill the measure ings of darkness. of their creation. Fortunately, the Spirit of Christ “giveth light to every man Various schools of thought about forest management that cometh into the world; and the Spirit enlighteneth have been followed through the years in caring for the every man through the world, that hearkeneth to the voice Sacred Grove. At one time a test plot was selected for a of the Spirit. practice known as release thinning. Foresters identified “And every one that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit what they felt were potentially the largest and healthiest cometh unto God, even the Father” (D&C 84:46–47). young trees in the test plot, and then they cut and pruned This passage beautifully describes the upward reach of out the less-promising trees and the competing under- God’s children, the natural God-given spiritual instinct we all growth. The supposition was that by removing much of have—if we don’t stifle it—to go toward the light and, in so the competition for water, sunlight, and soil nutrients, the doing, to go toward God and His Son and to become more chosen trees would be released to grow and develop in like Them. Of Himself, Christ said, “I am the light of the extraordinary ways. world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but After some years it became obvious that just the oppo- shall have the light of life” ( John 8:12). site was occurring. Once freed from competition, the

26 Liahona chosen trees became complacent. Instead and that in our extremity there is often much of stretching upward toward the light, they to be gained. These trees have had to recover slowed their vertical growth, put out many from various forms of opposition or adversity lower limbs that eventually became useless —a lightning strike, a powerful gust of wind, when the canopy closed, and became fatter. a heavy accumulation of snow or ice, the None of the trees in the test plot compared in encroachment and abuse of careless humans, size or vitality to the trees that had to com- and sometimes the aggression of a neighbor- pete and overcome opposition in order to ing tree. Out of these adverse circumstances survive and thrive. have come some of the sturdiest and most One of the key doctrines of the Book of visually interesting Mormon is that there must be “an opposition trees in the grove. in all things” (2 Nephi 2:11). A world with Some trees in the opposites provides choices between good 3. Trees grow best Sacred Grove and evil so that agency can operate. Equally in forests, not in isolation. demonstrate that important, however, is the principle that oppo- opposition can sition must exist for spiritual growth to occur. In nature it’s work to our benefit Understanding and embracing this principle is unusual to see a tree and that in our a key to accepting and being generally happy standing alone. Trees extremity there is with life. It is also critical to experiencing almost always grow often much to be needed personal growth and development. in groves, and over gained. Sooner or later, all of us will encounter time groves may opposition and adversity. Some of it will become forests. The come simply as a result of being here in mor- Sacred Grove, how- tality in a fallen world. It may involve forces ever, is much more of nature, illness and disease, temptations, than just a group of trees. It is a complicated loneliness, or physical or mental imperfec- ecosystem that includes numerous species of tions. Sometimes opposition and hardship flora and fauna. come because of our misguided choices. There is an observable interconnectedness How grateful we should be to our Savior, among all the different varieties of wildflow- whose Atonement provides a way for the ers, bushes, shrubs, trees, fungi, mosses, mending of everything that is broken. birds, rodents, rabbits, deer, and other cre- I take great solace from the Lord’s words ations found there. These species interact to Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail at a time when and rely on one another for food, shelter, and Joseph’s burdens were nearly unbearable: a synergistic and social environment where “Know thou, my son, that all these things they can experience their cycle of life. shall give thee experience, and shall be for God’s plan for our lives contemplates a sim- thy good” (D&C 122:7). ilar interconnectedness for us. We are to work Some trees in the Sacred Grove demon- out our salvation together, not in isolation. The strate that opposition can work to our benefit Church builds meetinghouses, not hermitages.

December 2014 27 From the beginning of the Restoration, 4. Trees draw strength from the nutrients the command has been for us to gather in created by previous generations of trees. communities, where we can learn to live in There was a time when those in charge of harmony and mutually support one another caring for the Sacred Grove decided that the by honoring our baptismal covenants (see grove should be well groomed. Service proj- Mosiah 18:8–10). As God’s children, we can ects were then organized to clear the grove of no more prosper in isolation than can a soli fallen trees and limbs, undergrowth, stumps, tary tree. Healthy trees need an ecosystem; and dead leaves. Under this practice, it wasn’t healthy people need each other. long before the vitality of the grove began Thankfully, there is in all of us a longing for to diminish. Tree sociality, companionship, and loyal friends. As growth slowed, members of God’s eternal family, we all yearn fewer new trees for the satisfaction and security that close and sprouted, some lasting relationships can provide. Although species of wild- A careful observer social networking sites undoubtedly provide a flowers and plants can learn some form of sociality, they are no substitute for the began to disappear, significant lessons honest, open, face-to-face communication that and the numbers from the ecosystem must occur for authentic and lasting relation- of birds and other that exists in the ships to be established. wildlife decreased. Sacred Grove. Certainly the earliest and best laboratory Later, upon rec- for learning to get along with others is the ommendation that home. At home we learn the lessons of ser- the grove be left in vice, unselfishness, forgiveness, and patience as natural a state that are essential to the formation of lasting as possible, fallen relationships with others. trees and limbs were left to decompose and Happily, the inspired organization of the enrich the soil. Leaves were left lying where Church also provides settings where we can they fell. Visitors were asked to stay on develop socially. In Church callings, meet- marked pathways so that the grove would be ings, classes, quorums, councils, activities, less disturbed and the soil within the grove and a variety of other opportunities for asso- less compacted. Within just a few years, the ciation, we develop the attributes and social grove began to regenerate and renew itself skills that help prepare us for the social order in a remarkable way. Today it flourishes in a that will exist in heaven. nearly pristine state, with lush vegetation and In speaking of this higher order, the abundant wildlife. Prophet Joseph Smith said, “And that same The lesson to be learned from this expe- sociality which exists among us here will rience is dear to my heart. For seven years it exist among us there, only it will be coupled was my privilege to serve as Church historian with eternal glory, which glory we do not and recorder. Why do record keeping and now enjoy” (D&C 130:2). the collection, preservation, and sharing of history enjoy such importance in the Church of Jesus Regrettably, in this technological age, where infor- Christ? Why is it critical for us to be mindful of and mation abounds—some of it critical of events and draw strength from past generations? (See D&C 21:1; people in the Church’s history—some Latter-day Saints 69:3, 8.) become shaken in their faith and begin to question I suggest that it is impossible to live fully in the long-held beliefs. To such questioning individuals I present—much less to plan for our future destiny— extend love, understanding, and the assurance that if without the foundation of the past. Understanding they will abide by gospel principles and prayerfully the relationship of the past to the present and to pursue their study of Church history—studying suf- the future helps us more fully appreciate the Lord’s ficiently to gain a more comprehensive rather than a fragmentary or incomplete knowledge—the Holy Ghost will confirm their faith in the essential events in Church history by speaking peace to their minds. In this way they can become settled in their convictions concerning the history of the restored Church.

Conclusion When we were serving our mission near Palmyra, sometimes I would go into the Sacred Grove alone and stand in reverence next to my favorite “witness tree”—one of three living trees that were growing in the grove at the time of the First Vision. I used to imagine that if that tree could talk, it would tell me what it witnessed that spring day in 1820. But I really didn’t need that tree to tell me—I already knew. definition of truth as revealed to Joseph Smith: By virtue of spiritual experiences and feelings “Truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as beginning in my youth and continuing to this very they were, and as they are to come” (D&C 93:24). hour, I have come to know that God, our Father, The knowledge we have of our past because of lives. I know too that His Son, Jesus Christ, is the the records that have been kept and of our future Savior and Redeemer of all mankind. I know that because of the scriptures and the teachings of living these two glorified Beings appeared to Joseph Smith. prophets provides us with the context that allows These glorious truths have their beginning in the wise use of our agency. Sacred Grove. I encourage you to stand always in It is important that we become familiar with your minds and hearts in that sacred place and live our Church’s history, especially with its founding true to the truths that God began to reveal there. ◼ stories. These stories—Joseph Smith’s First Vision, From a CES devotional address, “Stand in the Sacred Grove,” given the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, angelic in California, USA, on May 6, 2012. For the full address, visit cesdevotionals.lds.org. visitations by John the Baptist, Peter, James, John, NOTE Elijah, Elias, and others—contain the foundational 1. I am indebted to Robert Parrott, a forester and naturalist em- ployed by the Church who lives in Palmyra, for bringing to my truths upon which the Restoration is based. attention some of the insights about the Sacred Grove that I share.

December 2014 29 ● ● ● 700700 B.C. b.c. 600 b.c. 500 b.c.

APOSTASY IN JUDAH BABYLONIANS 597 b.c. THE PERSIAN EMPIRE 539 b.c. THE LOST 500 YEARS: FROM MALACHI TO JOHN THE BAPTIST

The 500 years between the Old and New Testaments can teach us about the conditions in ancient Palestine before the coming of Jesus Christ and help us renew our commitment to follow the Savior.

By S. Kent Brown dispensations in the Old and New Testaments. Professor Emeritus of Ancient Scripture Without a prophet, people in the land began and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel to divide into parties and groups, each claim- Professor of Church History and Doctrine at Brigham Young University ing the right to interpret the scriptures and lead the people. The true understanding of hen the prophet Malachi Jehovah diminished among these groups. stepped off the earthly stage A long night of confusion followed, which Waround 450 b.c., no genuine ended when God sent a new prophet, John prophetic voice was heard again for about the Baptist, to begin a new dispensation. But 500 years. We know this period as the even with John the Baptist and the Savior intertestamental period—the gap between teaching the people, many were unable to

30 Liahona ● ● ● 500 b.c. 400 b.c. 300300 b.c. B.C.

THE PERSIAN EMPIRE 539 b.c. THE GREEKS 332 b.c. THE LOST 500 YEARS: FROM MALACHI TO JOHN THE BAPTIST

overcome the traditions and beliefs The prophets Isaiah and Later the exiles began to return to that had developed and intensified Jeremiah warned the people Palestine and to rebuild their homes during the intertestamental period. As of Judah that they would be and religious life (see Ezra 3). The we understand these 500 years and the ruled by foreign nations. Their temple in Jerusalem, finally rebuilt by confusion that accompanied them, we prophecies proved true when 515 b.c., once again became the center can understand more about the Savior’s the region was conquered by of Jewish worship. ministry and renew our commitment to a series of kings from various Because the Jews rejected the © BALAGE BALOUGH/ARTRESOURCE/NY; © BALAGE BALOUGH/ARTRESOURCE/NY; follow Him. nations: King Nebuchadnezzar Samaritans’ offer to help reconstruct of Babylon, Cyrus the Great of the temple, the Samaritans built an Exile and Bondage: The Price of Persia, King Darius of Persia, alternate temple in the late fourth Disobedience and Alexander the Great century on Mount Gerizim, some Prophets such as Isaiah and of Greece. When Alexander 40 miles (64 km) north of Jerusalem. Jeremiah warned Jerusalem’s citizens died, his territory was divided Thus, the worship of and belief in that if they continued breaking their among his generals; Ptolemy I Jehovah fragmented between the new covenants with the Lord, the city and took control of Palestine. temple at Mount Gerizim and the JEWS IN EXILE—NEBUCHADNEZZAR’S PALACE, BABYLON JEWS IN EXILE—NEBUCHADNEZZAR’S PALACE, their temple would be destroyed. This Jerusalem temple because they offered prophecy proved true when Babylon competing claims of priesthood initially invaded Judah around 600 authority (see John 4:20). b.c., destroying its villages, towns, But this revival did not last long.

BY HARRY ANDERSON; RIGHT: ANDERSON; RIGHT: BY HARRY cities, and religious life. After Malachi, as the prophet Amos had Jerusalem finally fell in 587b.c. , prophesied, the Lord sent a “famine and the exiled Jews were forced out in the land, not a famine of bread, nor of their destroyed homeland (see a thirst for water, but of hearing the Psalm 137:1). A few people remained words of the Lord” (Amos 8:11). This in and around Jerusalem—including pivotal change had major consequences the Samaritans, who eventually inter- as people attempted to understand and married with non-Israelites live the law without a prophet’s author- THE PROPHET ISAIAH FORETELLS CHRIST’S BIRTH,

LEFT: LEFT: PERSEPOLIS, BY BY DORLING KINDERSLEY/THINKSTOCK; DARIUS I, BAS-RELIEF ON APADANA, IMAGE OF CYRUS THE GREAT LTD./THINKSTOCK; IMAGE OF FLAMES BY WAVEBREAKMEDIA IMAGE OF GREEK COLUMN BY OLMARMAR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; COIN WITH PORTRAIT OF SOTER PTOLEMAIOS I ART RESOURCE, NY; GIANNI DAGLI ORTI/THE ART ARCHIVE AT MUSEEN, BERLIN/REINHARD SACZEWSKI/ART RESOURCE, NY STAATLICHE COURTESY OF BPK, BERLIN/MUENZKABINETT, (see Jeremiah 40:7, 11–12). itative teachings and interpretations.

December 2014 31 ● ● ● 200 b.c. 150 b.c. 100 b.c.

THE SELEUCIDS 198 b.c. REVOLT 164 b.c. INDEPENDENT JEWISH NATION 142 b.c.

The Conditions of Apostasy Alexander the Great conquered the As an effect of this apostasy, the Palestine came under the rule region in 332 b.c. When he died, his people divided into groups with of the Seleucid emperors, one kingdom was divided among his gen- varied political, religious, and social of whom was Antiochus IV erals. In time, Palestine came under agendas. They also differed in their Epiphanes. Antiochus forci- the influence of the Greek-speaking beliefs and traditions about the bly Hellenized Jewish society, Seleucid emperors. In 167 b.c., the Messiah. The religious groups tried to sometimes executing large Seleucid rulers outlawed the Jewish live the law of Moses as they under- numbers of Jews, forbidding faith, forbidding circumcision and des- stood it, but each group interpreted Jewish religious rites, and ecrating the temple by offering swine the scriptures from such varied per- desecrating the temple. Judas on the altar. Many Jews resisted, led by spectives that Jewish society became Maccabeus, leader of the a family known as the Maccabees or more and more divided. As a result, anti-Greek Jews, led a revolt Hasmoneans. The revolt—called the the true understanding of who the and rededicated the temple. Maccabean War—eventually brought Savior would be became confused. The people celebrated the first freedom to the Jews and created a Once the voices of prophets fell Hanukkah. Jewish nation for the first time since silent, the priests and their fellow the fall of Jerusalem. At the same temple workers, the Levites, became the time, another religious group formed most important officials among the Jews known as the Hasideans, “the pious.” and claimed for themselves the right to They showed their devotion to God by interpret scripture. However, the office trying to live every aspect of the law of of high priest became corrupted as it Moses as they understood it. was bought and sold during this time. Other religious groups also Many Jews felt that the priests and emerged during the intertestamental Levites did not fulfill their responsi- period, each claiming the exclusive bility to teach the law correctly (see right to interpret the scriptures. The Deuteronomy 33:10), so a new group Pharisees were an independent reli- evolved who sought to teach the law. gious group that came into being Known as scribes, they modeled soon after the Maccabean War. They themselves on Ezra, who had helped became very influential in Jewish soci- his people feel an urgency to learn ety by introducing a narrow focus on and to obey the law (see Ezra 7:25; food laws and on ritual purity, aspects Nehemiah 8:1–8). that were rooted primarily in their

32 Liahona ● ● ● 100 b.c. 50 b.c. 1 b.c.

INDEPENDENT JEWISH NATION 142 b.c. THE ROMANS 63 b.c.

oral traditions, not scripture. In their Essenes believed that the temple homes, they tried to behave as if they After a short period of priests in Jerusalem were corrupt and were living in the temple. indpendence, Jerusalem fell the temple was in need of serious The Sadducees, on the other hand, under Roman rule when reform. In their view, the coming of whose origins remain unknown, Pompey the Great invaded the Messiah was near. They believed rejected any appeal to oral tradition and the city. The Romans installed He would join with them to throw off held strictly to the five books of Moses, Herod the Great, a descendant the oppressive yoke of Rome, whose turning their backs on the writings of of Esau, as a client king over rulers had conquered Palestine some other prophets. This group consisted Judea. He rebuilt Jerusalem 60 years before the birth of Jesus. mostly of the elite in Jerusalem society. and expanded the temple Like the Reformation that preceded By the time Jesus was born, they had area. Caesar Augustus ended the Restoration, the intertestamental expanded their power by asserting con- republican rule in Rome and period also witnessed events that trol over the Jerusalem temple. became the second Roman prepared the world for the coming of Each of these religious groups emperor after Julius Caesar. Jesus Christ. This time had a remark- preserved traditions and doctrines that able production of religious literature, they believed were essential to lives of including the translation of the Hebrew devotion. But because they lacked the Bible into Greek and the beginning guidance of a true prophet, they were of the creation of the Dead Sea Scrolls left to their own interpretations. and the Apocrypha. During this time the ideas about angels, resurrection, Awaiting a New Dispensation and the concepts of heaven and hell Regardless of their religious persua- became developed and refined. sion, righteous men and women still However, without a prophet to looked forward to the coming of the guide them, the Jews debated the Messiah during the intertestamental meaning of the scriptures and about period. Poets sang psalms, and the who the Messiah would be. While common people prayed, talked, and most people waited for a Davidic dreamed of His arrival—a Davidic King Messiah (one descended from King who was destined to save His people. David), others championed a Messiah One group waiting for the Messiah who was the son of Aaron—a priestly was the Essenes, which formed Messiah. Still others did not expect the

LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH OF BUST OF ANTIOCHUS IV COURTESY OF BPK, BERLIN/ALTES MUSEEN OF STAATLICHE/INGRID GESKE/ART RESOURCE, NY; PHOTOGRAPH OF MENORAH BY PUMBA1/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH OF MENORAH BY PUMBA1/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; RIGHT: GESKE/ART RESOURCE, NY; MUSEEN OF STAATLICHE/INGRID PHOTOGRAPH OF BUST ANTIOCHUS IV COURTESY OF BPK, BERLIN/ALTES LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH OF BUST KING HEROD BY JACK GUEZ/AFP/GETTY IMAGES; MODEL HEROD’S TEMPLE BY ALINARI/ART RESOURCE, NY; PHOTOGRAPH OF BUST POMPEY THE GREAT © IRI TIMOTHY L. TAGGART during the Maccabean conflict. The Messiah to come.

December 2014 33 ● 4 b.c.

HEROD THE GREAT CAESAR AUGUSTUS PONTIUS PILATE

So many expectations had built up role as the Savior. Since many of the among the different groups during the During the rule of Caesar religious leaders rejected Him (see intertestamental period that the groups Augustus and Herod the Great, Matthew 26:4), Jesus told them: “Ye did not know how to recognize the the Savior Jesus Christ was born neither know me, nor my Father: if true Messiah when He came to them. in Bethlehem. He was born King ye had known me, ye should have None of the groups—scribes, Pharisees, of kings and Lord of lords (see known my Father also.” He added, “If Essenes, or Sadducees—accepted John Isaiah 44:6). God were your father, ye would love the Baptist as a prophet or Jesus as me” ( John 8:19, 42). the Messiah. Some members of these Because they expected a Messiah groups became the primary adversaries so different from Jesus, they rejected of John and Jesus during their ministries Him. Thankfully, we live in an age (see Matthew 21:23–46). when the truths of the gospel are The debates and arguments among built on the foundational teachings of the differing groups about the Messiah prophets and apostles (see Ephesians continued. The first prophet of the 2:20). We do not have to choose new dispensation, John the Baptist, among the spiritual crosswinds that announced the coming of the true arise without the guidance of proph- Messiah and clarified the type of sal- ets and apostles. As we follow our vation He would provide. Indicating latter-day prophets and apostles, we Jesus Christ, John said, “Behold the will come to understand the true doc- Lamb of God, which taketh away the trine of the Savior Jesus Christ, as was sin of the world” ( John 1:29). Many revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith: Jews accepted John as he prepared “For [I] saw him, even on the right the people for the coming of Christ. hand of God; and [I] heard the voice When Jesus Christ began His bearing record that he is the Only ministry, He taught the people “as Begotten of the Father— one having authority, and not as the “That by him, and through him, scribes” (Matthew 7:29). He had many and of him, the worlds are and were discussions with the religious leaders, created, and the inhabitants thereof clarifying the doctrines of marriage, are begotten sons and daughters unto resurrection, the Godhead, and His God” (D&C 76:23–24). ◼

34 Liahona PONTIUS PILATE

THE DEAD SEA SCROLLS WINDOW TO THE MODERN BIBLE

By Donald W. Parry Professor of Hebrew Bible at Brigham Young University

n early 1947, three shepherds belonging to the Ta‘amireh and the testaments of Jacob, Judah, and Levi). Little is known IBedouin were searching for a stray animal. One of them about Enoch in the Bible, but in the scrolls, Enoch is a major threw a rock into a cave and heard an earthen jar break. character—a mighty prophet with special gifts. When they entered the cave, they saw it contained several Most of the scrolls are severely fragmented because of age large clay jars, some of which held scrolls.* In the ensuing and exposure to the elements, but scholars have been able years, Bedouin and archaeologists found several hundred to glean a wealth of information about the scribal practices. scrolls in 11 caves on the northwest shore of the Dead Sea. The scribes’ careful and meticulous work indicates a high Many scholars believe that the Dead Sea Scrolls are the level of professionalism and competence as they copied and greatest archaeological discovery of the 20th century. The transmitted sacred texts from one generation to the next. scrolls provide an ancient library of more than 900 texts, most Those of us who love and appreciate the holy scriptures of them written in the original Hebrew of the Old Testament. owe a great debt to these scribes for their careful work. About 225 of the scrolls contain the oldest copy of the Old When we consider the ancient methods of transmitting Testament (except for the book of Esther), which is more texts by hand, we realize that the Bible went through a than 1,000 years older than the copies used during the Middle remarkable process to make it into this century. The Dead Ages. Most of the scrolls date between 150 b.c. and a.d. 68, Sea Scrolls stand as a witness that the Old Testament has although some texts date as far back as the third century b.c. been passed down through the centuries with a respectable In addition to traditional biblical texts, the Dead Sea Scrolls degree of accuracy. For this, we must be grateful to proph- also include the Temple Scroll (describing a temple to be ets, scribes, copyists, and everyone who was responsible for built in Jerusalem and the ideal covenant society), the War the Bible’s transmission from generation to generation. ◼ Scroll (describing the end-of-days conflict), and texts parallel * Accounts of how the scrolls were discovered vary because the shepherds relied

LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH OF SUNLIT CLOUDS BY IGDRZH/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH OF QUMRAN CAVE 4 BY RICHO-FAN/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK PHOTOGRAPH OF QUMRAN CAVE PHOTOGRAPH OF SUNLIT CLOUDS BY IGDRZH/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK; RIGHT: LEFT: to the Bible (such as the books of Enoch, Noah, Melchizedek, on their memories to recount the story years later.

December 2014 35

THE RealityOF By Bishop Gary E. Stevenson CHRISTMAS Presiding Bishop

Without hen my father was a boy, Recently I saw a television program on the Savior’s he lived in a small town in Jesus Christ that questioned whether He birth and Wcentral Utah near Utah Lake. really was born of the Virgin Mary. Even In the days before the pioneers, Native great professors from esteemed institutions Atonement, Americans hunted and fished in the area. of learning speculated about whether this we would Certain locations around the lake became could be. have no popular for those looking for arrowheads. Responding to such doubters, President Intercessor, At a fathers-and-sons activity when my Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994) said: “The no Advocate father was five years old, his ward went so-called scholars seek to convince us that to Utah Lake to look for arrowheads. the divine birth of Christ as proclaimed in with the After the group had spent the day search- the New Testament was not divine at all Father, and ing, my grandfather asked my father and that Mary was not a virgin at the time no Mediator whether he had found any arrowheads. of Jesus’ conception. They would have who makes “No, I didn’t find any,” my father us believe that Joseph, the foster-father it possible replied. Then he reached into his pocket of Jesus, was His physical father, and that and said, “But I did find this nice rock therefore Jesus was human in all attributes for us to that is shaped just like a Christmas tree.” and characteristics. They appear gener- return to the My father had found an arrowhead ous in their praise of Him when they say presence of after all, but he didn’t know it. He held that He was a great moral philosopher, our loving the real thing in his hand, but he didn’t perhaps even the greatest. But the import Heavenly recognize it. of their effort is to repudiate the divine sonship of Jesus, for on that doctrine rests Father and Recognizing the Redeemer all other claims of Christianity.” 1 live together For many people today, their vision of I have skied on artificial snow, and I as eternal what is real and most important—Jesus have decorated fake Christmas trees with families. Christ, the Savior of the world—is blurred fake icicles. Sometimes it can be difficult by things that are not real. to grasp what is real, especially in a day

December 2014 37 of virtual reality. So how do we know had of the mother of the Son of God: what is real? How do we obtain a testi- “I looked and beheld the . . . city of mony of the reality of Jesus Christ? Nazareth; and in the city of Nazareth I FINDING THE SAVIOR We gain a testimony of what is real beheld a virgin, and she was exceed- “Sometimes the most precious as we read the word of God in the ingly fair and white. . . . and sacred scriptures—both ancient and modern. “And [the angel] said unto me: things are right We learn the reality of the Savior as Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is in front of us, in we listen to and read the testimo- the mother of the Son of God . . . . plain sight, but nies of living prophets and apostles. “And I looked and beheld the vir- we cannot or We find the truth as we pray “with a gin again, bearing a child in her arms. will not see them. . . . sincere heart, with real intent, hav- “And the angel said unto me: “I promise that if we unclutter our lives a little bit and in sincerity ing faith in Christ” (Moroni 10:4). We Behold the Lamb of God” (1 Nephi and humility seek the pure and discover “the right way” as we “believe 11:13, 18, 20–21). gentle Christ with our hearts, we in Christ, and deny him not” and as One hundred twenty-four years will see Him, we will find Him— we “bow down before him, and wor- before the birth of the Savior, King on Christmas and throughout the ship him with all [our] might, mind, Benjamin said: year.” and strength, and [our] whole soul” “Behold, the time cometh, and is not President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, “How to (2 Nephi 25:29). far distant, that with power, the Lord See the Christ in Christmas,” New Era, Dec. Omnipotent . . . shall come down from 2013, 48. Prophecies of Christ’s Birth heaven among the children of men, Scriptures abound that prophesy of and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, the birth of Christ—the first Christmas. and shall go forth amongst men, work- We may forget when we read these ing mighty miracles . . . . scriptural prophecies that they were “And he shall be called Jesus Christ, indeed prophecies. They offer great the Son of God, the Father of heaven “And behold, this will I give unto detail about what was going to hap- and earth, the Creator of all things you for a sign at the time of his com- pen but had not yet happened. from the beginning; and his mother ing; for behold, there shall be great Eight hundred years before the shall be called Mary” (Mosiah 3:5, 8). lights in heaven, insomuch that in the birth of Christ, Isaiah said, “For unto Eighty-three years before the birth night before he cometh there shall be us a child is born, unto us a son is of Christ, Alma said, “And behold, [the no darkness . . . . given: and the government shall be Son of God] shall be born of Mary, “And behold, there shall a new star upon his shoulder: and his name shall at Jerusalem which is the land of our arise, such an one as ye never have be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The forefathers, she being a virgin, a pre- beheld” (Helaman 14:3, 5). mighty God, The everlasting Father, cious and chosen vessel” (Alma 7:10). The Jewish people anxiously antic- The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). And only six years before the ipated this great event. They knew Six hundred years before the Savior first Christmas, Samuel the Lamanite the Messiah would come, and they was born, Nephi described a vision he declared: expected Him to come in glory, liberate

38 Liahona “This Christmas, mend a quarrel. Seek out a forgotten friend. Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust. Write a letter. Give a soft answer. Encourage youth. Manifest your loyalty in word and deed. Keep a promise. Forgo a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Apologize. Try to understand. Examine your demands on others. Think first of someone else. Be kind. Be gentle. Laugh a little more. Express your gratitude. Welcome a stranger. Gladden the heart of a child. them temporally, establish an earthly is that it increases our sensitivity to Take pleasure in the beauty and kingdom, and rule as their King. things of God: wonder of the earth. Speak your love Who would know first of the “It causes us to contemplate our and then speak it again.” 3 Messiah’s birth? Would it not be the relationship with our Father and the Without Christ, there would be no Sanhedrin or others in positions of degree of devotion we have for God. Christmas. Without Christ, there can power and influence? “It prompts us to be more toler- be no fulness of joy. Without His birth The Bible tells us that it was lowly ant and giving, more conscious of and His Atonement, we would have shepherds sleeping on the ground to others, more generous and genuine, no Intercessor, no Advocate with the whom an angel declared the “good more filled with hope and charity and Father, and no Mediator who makes it tidings of great joy” (Luke 2:10) and love—all Christlike attributes. No won- possible for us to return to the pres- that it was Wise Men from afar who der the spirit of Christmas touches the ence of our loving Heavenly Father saw “his star in the east, and [came] hearts of people the world over. . . . and live together as eternal families. to worship him” (Matthew 2:2). The For at least a time, increased attention I celebrate with you the beautiful powerful and the influential, whose and devotion are turned toward our and miraculous reality of the birth vision was blurred by the philoso- Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.” 2 and mission of the Son of God, and I phies of this world, were not with This Christmas, as the spirit of bear my testimony that Jesus Christ is the Savior at His birth or during His the season permeates our hearts, let our Savior and Redeemer—the prom- ministry. They had before them the us do something that expresses our ised Messiah. ◼ real thing but did not know it or feelings in an outward way, showing NOTES 1. The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson (1988), 128. accept it. that we understand that the babe born 2. Ezra Taft Benson, in Larry C. Porter, in Bethlehem is the real Redeemer. “Remembering Christmas Past: Presidents of the Church Celebrate the Birth of the Son Becoming More Christlike President Howard W. Hunter (1907–95) of Man and Remember His Servant Joseph Smith,” BYU Studies, vol. 40, no 3. (2001), 108. President Benson said that one of gave some practical advice that helps 3. Howard W. Hunter, “The Gifts of Christmas,” the greatest things about Christmastime us do that: Ensign, Dec. 2002, 18–19.

December 2014 39 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

MOM’S CHRISTMAS QUILT

ne of the most challenging experi- be easy, especially for my wife. We gathered many of Clarissa’s books Oences of my life happened shortly Dealing with the whirlwind of and took them to her elementary school after the passing of our 10-year-old details associated with hospitals, for other children to enjoy. We gave daughter from brain cancer. The saying chemotherapy, and radiation had left her dresser to a neighbor. Some of her “You can’t take it with you” came with us little time to clean and organize. clothes went to cousins. Focusing on clarity as we looked around her room Memories came as we packed up others helped make the difficult situation one Saturday afternoon. items she’d arranged on her head- of parting with her things a little easier. Clarissa was gone, but her room still board or bookshelf. They all held Several weeks later, as Christmas held the identifiable remnants of her heartfelt meaning—from her favorite approached, my two teenage daugh- earthly stay. We now had the daunting blanket, book, or necklace to her ters asked their mother if they could task of deciding what to do with her stuffed animals, schoolbooks, and use some of Clarissa’s clothes to personal belongings. I knew that part- football. My wife sobbed as we asked make a special Christmas gift. They

ing with a single item would not what to do with each item. selected each article of clothing for its BY BRADLEY H. CLARK ILLUSTRATIONS

will always remember my I wife’s expression when she opened her gift and saw what her daughters had made for her.

40 HE NEEDS MY SERVICE NOW intrinsic family memory and carefully sit at the sewing machine and feed isn’t square—it’s a cross between a cut squares to represent precious I thread onto seams of flannel. Child- trapezoid and a parallelogram. moments in her life. print patterns in soft colors decorate the I set the blanket aside, pull out A few days before Christmas, they tops, with coordinating colors forming fresh flannel, and start again—taking and their Young Women leader, who the backs of the baby receiving blankets greater pains for this gift worthy of had helped them come up with the I’m sewing. Deity. But even with the extra effort, idea, showed me a quilt they were Our ward Relief Society assembles the results are only slightly better. making. I looked in astonishment at newborn kits for poverty and disaster Each blanket I sew is imperfect. each square of fabric, which repre- areas. I’m an amateur seamstress, but I feel that I can’t take any of the blan- sented an event in Clarissa’s life: a I’m committed to participate. I enjoy kets to the collection site, at least not this square from her football uniform, choosing fabric for the project and year. I’ll keep practicing, and perhaps a square from the shirt we bought her cutting out blanket-sized squares. someday I can make a contribution. on a family trip, a square from the I put right sides of the fabric Then another thought floats pajama pants she wore at the hospital. together, sew around the edges, and through my mind: “If you wait until Each piece, so precious and beautiful, leave an area open to turn the blanket your sewing is perfect, the Christ child reminded me of our time with her. right side out. Then I stitch along the will be in Egypt.” I told my daughters it was perfect. I edges, clip the corners, turn the blan- I understand. The opportunity for knew their mother would love it. ket so that the colorful sides are on the service would be gone. The Savior That Christmas morning I saw a outside, and stitch up the open area. accepts our offerings when we use our gift given from the heart. I will always I sew along the top of the edges to best efforts, imperfect though they may remember my wife’s expression reinforce the seams. I ease the fabric be. I know that a newborn, wrapped when she opened her gift and saw into place and take off at a brisk pace. in a soft, clean blanket, would not what her daughters had made for As I rush to finish so I can resume refuse to sleep because the corners her. Each night since then she has household duties, a thought strikes me: aren’t square. wrapped her Christmas quilt around “What if I were sewing this blanket for As I contemplate whether my her, recalling memories and dreaming baby Jesus?” efforts will make a dent in world- of the day our family will be united With that thought, I slow down wide needs, Christ’s counsel comes again—thanks to the Atonement and and take great care to straighten the to mind: “Inasmuch as ye have done Resurrection of Jesus Christ. ◼ seams. But even with care, the stitch- it unto one of the least of these my Jed Packer, Utah, USA ing doesn’t run straight. brethren, ye have done it unto me” Next I sew a 10-inch (25 cm) square (Matthew 25:40). in the center to secure the front to the So I continue sewing blankets, back. I make a heavy paper template, working to make them as attractive center it on the blanket, and lightly mark as I can. I know there is a need now, around it. I put the fabric in place, ease not some vague time in the future down the needle, and carefully sew. when I can sew them perfectly. ◼ When I’m done, I clip the threads Jean Hedengren Moultrie, and pull out the finished blanket. It Washington, USA

December 2014 41 OUR BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER

t was Christmas Eve, and our family true meaning of Christmas and the the gospel and learning about the Ihad gathered as we do every year happiness and gratitude we should Church for 25 years. Despite our best to celebrate. The clock was about to feel for the Savior’s birth. One slide of efforts and many missionary discus- strike midnight when Dad called us a colorful Christmas tree also featured sions, he still had not been baptized. together, saying that he had some- the words, “This Christmas the love of We never understood why, but we thing to show us. Jesus Christ will bring me a new life.” knew he wasn’t ready. With all the preparation and excite- The most special part of Dad’s I admit there were times when I felt ment that accompany Christmas Eve, presentation followed when he used a that my father would never be baptized. my sisters, mother, and I had not slide of a painting of the Savior to give Deep inside, however, I never lost hope, noticed what Dad had prepared for us some news. It wasn’t just any news; and we all continued to pray for him. the occasion. As soon as we were all it was the best news ever. Above the On Christmas Eve, the Lord answered comfortably gathered together, he Savior appeared the words “I have our prayers. began to show us some slides. decided to get baptized in The Church When Dad made his announcement, In his slide show, which featured of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” at first all we could do was weep for a painting of the Savior, Christmas Our father had finally decided to joy. We felt a mixture of feelings— scenes, and carefully crafted words, join the Church! Such a decision may excitement, surprise, and above all else, Dad expressed his love for us. His be easy for some people, but it wasn’t an enormous happiness that is difficult presentation also reminded us of the for our father. He had been studying to describe. Dad’s announcement didn’t just he most special part of Dad’s presentation change Christmas Eve—it changed Toccurred when he used a slide of a painting of life for our entire family. We still have the Savior to give us the best news ever. progress to make as individuals and as a family, but I know moving ahead will be better now that we’re together in the Church. I am so grateful to the Lord for this blessing. In a few months we will be sealed as a family in the temple. Dad’s announcement was definitely the best Christmas present ever. ◼ Adriana Nava Navarro, Bolivia CHRISTMAS UNDER CORRUGATED METAL

hile I was stationed in Manila, ground. We found bits of litter to deco- comfort in our words, and a feeling WPhilippines, during World rate the branch. of peace warmed the night air. Then War II, I would often meet with a small Aniceta and her family looked on we bid our dear friends good-bye and group of other LDS servicemen to with delight and amazement. When wished them a merry Christmas. hold sacrament meeting. During one they saw the gifts we had brought, Soon afterward I was transferred to meeting I noticed a Filipino woman at their delight turned into tears of hap- a new area, and I never saw Aniceta the back of our bombed-out building piness and appreciation. They hadn’t or her family again. But years later I peering through an opening that had seen or eaten such food in a long opened the Church Almanac to a sec- once been a door. I wondered if our time, and they wept so much that for tion on the Philippines and read that singing had attracted her. While our a time they couldn’t speak. Aniceta Pabilona Fajardo was the first eyes were closed for the benediction, Because it was Christmas Eve, our Filipino to join the Church in those she quietly slipped away. thoughts turned to home and loved islands.1 What a wonderful blessing During one of her subsequent ones. I thought of the cablegram I had to think of the seeds that were planted visits, we invited her to join us. Her received just two days before, inform- during that Christmastime in 1945. ◼ name was Aniceta Fajardo, and she ing me that I had become a father. Erwin E. Wirkus, Idaho, USA enthusiastically accepted our friend- We shared our feelings, ending with NOTE 1. See “Philippines,” Deseret News 1991–1992 ship. As she continued attending our testimonies of the Savior and the Church Almanac, 157; recent issues of the our meetings, she learned about the restored gospel. Church Almanac spell Sister Fajardo’s first name Aneleta. restored gospel of Jesus Christ. We assured this wonderful family of With Christmas approaching, we the Savior’s love for them. They found decided to bless Aniceta and her family with some Christmas presents. We gath- e pulled a branch ered canned milk, meat, and vegetables; from a mango a couple of blankets; and a medical kit, W tree and stuck it in the including penicillin to treat Aniceta’s ground. Aniceta and her sick grandson. family looked on with On Christmas Eve we loaded up the delight and amazement. gifts and went to Aniceta’s home. She lived with her daughter and grandson under sheets of corrugated metal that leaned against a brick wall—a remnant of a building that had been blown apart. We wondered how they could survive with such little protection during the tropical rains so prevalent that time of year. One of our men pulled a branch from a mango tree and stuck it in the The Answer TO ALL THE Hard Questions Y oung When faced with foundations are not as solid as we Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor

hard questions, thought. We may be tempted to ques- in the First Presidency, made this A only one ultimately tion the truths we’ve taken for granted insightful observation: dults and the spiritual experiences that have “It’s natural to have questions—the matters. formed our faith. acorn of honest inquiry has often What do we do when doubt seeps sprouted and matured into a great into our hearts? Are there really oak of understanding. There are few answers to those hard questions? members of the Church who, at one Yes, there are. In fact, all the time or another, have not wrestled answers—all the right answers— with serious or sensitive questions. By R. Val Johnson depend on the answer to just one One of the purposes of the Church is Church Magazines question: do I trust God above every- to nurture and cultivate the seed of he questions life sends one else? faith—even in the sometimes sandy our way are not always soil of doubt and uncertainty. Faith is Teasy to answer. Some of the Simple but Not Easy to hope for things which are not seen personal challenges we have— Is that approach too simple? too but which are true. a child’s death, for example, the easy? “Therefore, my dear brothers and betrayal of a friend, or an unfortu- Perhaps. Truth isn’t always obvious, sisters—my dear friends—please, first nate financial reversal—are often particularly when it has to compete doubt your doubts before you doubt not easy to reconcile, and we with alternatives presented in attrac- your faith. We must never allow doubt need the compassionate support tive packages. Often we understand to hold us prisoner and keep us from of those around us. Sometimes the truth only in part, while the whole the divine love, peace, and gifts that the most difficult struggle in these remains yet to be learned. And in the come through faith in the Lord Jesus situations is to recognize that our learning, we face the uncomfortable Christ.” 1 Heavenly Father loves us and is prospect of abandoning imperfect but not punishing us, though the rea- heretofore comforting understand- Some Helpful Principles son for the trial, if there even is a ings. But trusting that God has all the So how do we go about honestly reason, escapes us for now. answers, that He loves us, and that doubting our doubts? How do we Some of the hardest questions He will answer all our questions—in anchor our faith on the solid rock of come when what we believe is His way, on His timetable—can sim- revelation and not on the sandy soil of challenged by changing cultural plify our searching. It may not always shifting human understanding? It may fashions or by new information, be easy, but simply trusting in God’s help to keep in mind the following sometimes misinformation, that counsel can safely steer us through principles. critics of the Church confront us clouds of confusion. PRINCIPLE 1: God Knows with. At such times, it may seem During the October 2013 general Infinitely More Than We Do.When that our doctrinal or historical conference of the Church, President faced with questions—whether

December 2014 45 personal, social, or doctrinal—we can rely on the fact that the Creator of the universe knows far more than we do. If He has addressed a topic (and sometimes He hasn’t), we can trust that His views are clearer than ours. THE COURAGE TO STAND “For my thoughts are not your FOR PRINCIPLE thoughts, neither are your ways my “It is impossible to stand upright ways, saith the Lord. when one plants his roots in the “For as the heavens are higher shifting sands of popular opin- than the earth, so are my ways higher ion and approval. . . . We will all face fear, experience ridicule, and than your ways, and my thoughts than meet opposition. Let us—all of your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8–9). us—have the courage to defy the PRINCIPLE 2: God Shares Some consensus, the courage to stand of His Knowledge. A corollary of for principle.” principle 1 is that God shares with need not be “tossed to and fro, and President Thomas S. Monson, “Be Strong us as much of what He knows as we carried about with every wind of and of a Good Courage,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 68–69. are ready to receive and He is ready doctrine.” We can trust that their col- to deliver. We just need to prepare lective guidance will help us “all come ourselves to receive it, then seek it. in the unity of the faith, and of the The scriptures answer many ques- knowledge of the Son of God.” (See tions. One of the great pleasures of Ephesians 4:11–15.) this life is being taught by the Holy PRINCIPLE 3: We Can Trust in Ghost as He uses the scriptures to God’s Love. God loves us far more reveal “line upon line, precept upon than we can imagine. We are His chil- precept, here a little and there a little” dren, and He wants us to return to His (2 Nephi 28:30) in response to our presence as mature, glorified beings diligent study. capable of becoming like Him (see Some questions, particularly of Moses 1:39). All the counsel He gives a historical nature, have reasonable us is given with the deepest of love to explanations, and the more informa- bless us eternally. We can trust in that tion honest scholarship reveals, the love completely. clearer our views become. “How excellent is thy lovingkind- FIND ANSWERS We are also blessed to have living ness, O God! therefore the children of To expand your study of difficult questions, prophets and apostles to teach us men put their trust under the shadow go to lds.org/topics and history.lds.org, among other supportive online resources. under the inspiration of heaven. We of thy wings” (Psalm 36:7).

46 Liahona Young Adults - - - Nov. 2013, 23. 2013, Nov. Liahona, or Ensign “And he shall bring forth thy righ “And patiently and wait in the Lord, “Rest “Commit thy way unto the Lord; “Commit thy way 1. Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Come, Join with Us,” with Us,” Join “Come, Uchtdorf, Dieter F. 1. teousness as the light, and thy judg teousness as the light, ment as the noonday. (Psalm 37:5–7). ◼ him” for NOTE have. Despite our best efforts, under best efforts, Despite our have. seem heavens The us. standing escapes trust when our in God That’s closed. the patience to wait enables us to have Not all questions will be upon Him. in this immediately or even answered body Not all trials will ease before life. God love But if we and spirit separate. for trust in His love if we all else, above will be able to endure in faith we us, lifts when the veil dawns until that day and all becomes clear. trust bring it also in him; and he shall to pass. - - - - Sometimes We May Need to May We “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, you; and it shall be given “Ask, PRINCIPLE 5: When we are baptized and con When we we come up blank as we struggle to blank as we come up we understand the trials and questions we Receiving such spiritual affirmationsReceiving surely than thedispels doubt more and it is avail most convincing logic, able to all who seek truth through and obe diligent study, sincere prayer, commandments. dience to the Lord’s and it shall be shall find; knock, and ye (Matthew 7:7). opened unto you” upon the Lord. Wait freely given to us of God. . . . which . . . God. to us of freely given Ghost teacheth; compar the Holy things with spiritual” ing spiritual (1 Corinthians 2:12–13). Church, firmed members of Christ’s the giftHoly of the are given we can learn we that gift, With Ghost. His receive from the Spirit and comforting confirmations of truth. - If so much We Need to Seek Need We If we are to understand the things are to If we “The not the natural man receiveth PRINCIPLE 4: PRINCIPLE we might know the things that are the things might know we of God, we can’t depend on human we of God, We wisdom alone to do the job. “that need access to the Spirit of God ally discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:11, 14). (1 Corinthians 2:11, ally discerned” things of the Spirit of God: for they are they things of the Spirit of God: for unto him: neither can hefoolishness are spiritu because they them, know but the Spirit of God. . . . knoweth the things of a man, save the save the things of a man, knoweth so is in him? even spirit of man which no man, the things of God knoweth the presence and mind of God. Such a of God. the presence and mind understanding the condition can make what man “for things of God difficult, After all, by divine design, we live in a live we divine design, by After all, are cut off from where we fallen world Spiritual Affirmations. contrary wisdom seems of the world’s should not be surprised. we to God’s,

By David L. Beck THE AND Young Men SAVIOR General President THE SACRAMENT

MY SACRAMENT EXPERIENCE s long as I can remember, As you partake A I was told to think of the sacrament, about Jesus Christ during you renew your the sacrament. When I first passed the sacrament covenant to last December, a feeling of always remember peace and holiness came the Savior. over me. I felt the Spirit telling me I was helping others to come unto Christ. I am grateful Heavenly Father trusts me enough to allow me to serve Him and help others. Jacob R., age 12, Idaho, USA

48 Liahona Y outh

hat do you think about Quorum of the Twelve Apostles when you eat the bread taught, “In the simple and beautiful Wand drink the water of the language of the sacramental prayers sacrament or when you prepare, . . . the principal word we hear seems bless, or pass the sacrament? Many of to be remember. . . . What is stressed us ponder our covenants and how we in both prayers is that all of this is REMEMBERING THE SAVIOR are living. We think about our sins and done in remembrance of Christ. In so o help you and your family pray for forgiveness and determine to participating we witness that we will Tremember the Savior, consider do better. always remember him, that we may studying the Come, Follow Me These are important aspects of always have his Spirit to be with us.” 1 lesson outline “How can I help the ordinance of the sacrament. In The Savior stressed these same others have a meaningful experi- addition, there is something else to points when He instituted the sac- ence with the sacrament?” at ponder—something so profound and rament with His Apostles during the lds.org/go/491214. The video on so specific that it is part of the sacra- Passover in Jerusalem on the last night that page, “Always Remember Him,” mental prayer itself. It is remember- of His mortal ministry—the night can be used as a powerful family ing Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the He suffered for us in the Garden of home evening resource. Savior of the world. Those who eat Gethsemane before suffering again the bread promise to “eat in remem- on the cross. For example, after giving brance of the body of [the] Son” and them bread to eat, He said, “This is my to “always remember him” (D&C body which is given for you: this do 20:77). Similarly, those who drink the in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19; Spirit with us, we can “know the truth water promise to drink “in remem- see also Matthew 26:26–28). of all things” (Moroni 10:5). That will brance of the blood of [the] Son” and During the Savior’s first day among give us the power and wisdom to live “that they do always remember him” the Nephites in the Americas, He also the way the Lord would have us live, (D&C 20:79). taught them the ordinance of the sac- to make correct choices, to serve faith- The choice to remember the Savior rament. Again, He instructed them to fully, and to become like Him. and His Atonement and sacrifice partake in remembrance of His body As you participate in the sacrament is fundamental to the ordinance. and blood and told them that as they each week, what can you do to re As Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the did, “it shall be a testimony unto the member him? What can you do to Father that ye do always remember always remember Him—throughout me” (3 Nephi 18:7). He then promised the week and throughout your life? them, “If ye do always remember me May I invite you to ponder those ye shall have my Spirit to be with you” questions and to make a commitment (3 Nephi 18:7, 11). to always remember the Savior. You’ll What a marvelous blessing! In a be amazed at how it will change world filled with challenges and tur- your life. ◼ moil and temptations constantly trying to lead us astray, what more important NOTE 1. Jeffrey R. Holland, “This Do in Remembrance gift could we have? By having the of Me,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 68.

December 2014 49 By Joshua J. Perkey Church Magazines

SUNDAY LESSONS

f you grow up in the Church, churchy This Month’s Topic: Building the things become pretty normal. You get Kingdom of God Iused to the regularity of the meetings, the building you attend, the kind of clothes people wear at church. Things like giving talks in sacrament meeting, paying tithing and fast offerings, and fasting once a month are just a part of life. Living the Word of Wisdom, accepting callings to serve, and living the law of chastity are all part of what WHAT’S IT LIKE you learn to do. But for converts, it can be a big adjustment trying to take it all in. Certainly, gaining a TO BE A testimony of gospel truths is the first step to membership in Christ’s Church. But having a testimony doesn’t mean the transition to living life as a member of the Church is easy. The Church Can Seem Very Different BRAND Take me for example. I had LDS friends since I was 13, and I eventually joined the Church when I was 19. But despite learning a lot about Church culture over those years, I had a hard transition. To me, the Church culture and practices were so different that they seemed kind of weird. I grew up in a church that in many ways is NEW quite unlike the one you know or are coming to know. At church the ministers and choir CONVERT? wore robes similar to high school graduation robes. During worship service—their equiv- You can help new members by understanding what alent of sacrament meeting—the ministers gave sermons and did all the talking. Every they are going through. Sunday we all repeated the Lord’s Prayer in unison and always sang the hymn “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow.” Babies were baptized by having water sprinkled on their heads, but confirmation happened at around 14 years old.

50 Liahona YOUTH

We used grape juice instead of water for the sacrament, THE FIRST SIX MONTHS AFTER and high school kids attended Sunday School with the MY BAPTISM WERE REALLY HARD. adults in a class that talked about current issues in society. I ALMOST DIDN’T MAKE IT. Even our building was different from the LDS buildings I had visited. We had a large chapel modeled after Christian EVERYTHING WAS churches in Europe, with a high peaked roof and tall, SO DIFFERENT . . . stained-glass windows. There was a cross in the choir loft. A beautiful, tall bell tower stood out front. I loved ringing premortal life and baptism for the dead; it was a change that bell after church services. It was heavy enough that it in culture and lifestyle and expectations. Resolving those could lift a small child off the ground as the rope went up differences was a hard road to walk. and down. The first six months after my baptism were really hard. Our customs and social beliefs were different too. We I almost didn’t make it. Everything was so different, espe- were taught that it was OK to drink alcohol or smoke. cially because I was attending church without my family. I Having a boyfriend or girlfriend as a teenager was OK. still struggled with certain doctrinal points, as well as feel- In fact, we were taught that you could even have sexual ings of being estranged from my past. relations before marriage as long as you believed you were Fortunately, my friends in the Church were patient, kind, in love. We never talked about having a testimony. The first and constant. They took me to activities, invited me to their time I saw a fast and testimony meeting—wow! I couldn’t homes for dinner and family home evening, and prayed believe how odd that seemed. No one ever stood to share with me. That made a huge difference not just in my join- their beliefs like that in my church. ing the Church but also in my staying active and finding Coming to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day strength when my testimony wavered. I owe a lot to them Saints wasn’t just about learning new doctrines, such as the for helping me figure things out.

December 2014 51 WHAT CONVERTS FACE Here are some of the challenges new converts face. How might your friendship help them face their challenges?

1. Struggling to understand new doctrine. In the following stories, two young members share 2. Choosing different media, music, movies, and books. their own experiences of joining the Church and how they 3. Understanding scripture language. found the strength to make it. As you read their experi- 4. Coping with lack of acceptance from non-LDS family ences, think about what you could do to help a new con- and friends. vert or someone returning to activity find the strength to 5. Wearing different clothing. adapt socially and culturally and to grow spiritually. 6. Dedicating the time to attend church and seminary. 7. Learning new practices and customs in the worship Waiting Years to Be Baptized services. When I was in high school, I decided to join the Church 8. Having to change habits, language, and ways of thinking. after meeting the missionaries at English classes and study- 9. Adapting to LDS social culture. ing with them. My parents reacted pretty badly when I 10. Learning the LDS-specific meanings of terms, like told them I wanted to be baptized. They didn’t know a gospel, apostasy, and restoration. whole lot about the Church, and they were afraid I would be caught up in something dangerous. They thought that the Church would get in the way of my education and that

because of all the rules, I wouldn’t be able to enjoy life. They wouldn’t let me get baptized for two and a half years. I was tested right from the start. In the years before I could be baptized, I prayed over and over again for strength and the necessary faith to keep believing. I couldn’t attend church or associate with members or missionaries. I had to build my faith and my testimony with prayer, scripture reading, and the words of modern prophets—by myself. I missed out on a lot of interesting programs and fun activities. When I moved to Rome for college, my bishop became a true friend who stood by me when my parents were really angry. He taught me that it was essential to love my parents regardless. When I finally got baptized, many ward members came and supported me. I joined the choir and made a lot of friends there. Their friendship and kindness made me feel I HAD TO BUILD MY FAITH at home. AND MY TESTIMONY When we are true to the teachings of Jesus Christ and follow His example in loving and caring for others, recent WITH PRAYER, SCRIPTURE READING, converts and investigators will see that we don’t just talk AND THE WORDS OF the talk, we walk the walk. MODERN PROPHETS— Ottavio Caruso is from Italy and is currently serving a full-time BY MYSELF. mission.

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Not Fitting In opinions—sometimes very strong crowd—that enabled him to have a I joined the Church when I was opinions that were the opposite of very beautiful and personal expe- 13 years old. I had a testimony of the mine—about everything from mov- rience with the Savior. As I read, I gospel, yet I had a nagging feeling ies and politics to the interpretation recognized that my feelings of being that I didn’t quite fit in at church. of certain scriptures. I would look an outsider were not coming from Everyone else knew the songs and around at all of the nodding heads Christ. Jesus was inclusive and for- the scripture stories; I didn’t. Everyone and think, “You’re nice people and I giving. He actively sought those who else had memories of Primary activi- am a nice person. But we are just too were judged and cast aside—those ties or family home evening lessons; different. I don’t belong here.” who seemed different. I’d never done either of those things. I struggled with those feelings I can’t say I’ve never felt out of place But beyond that, everyone seemed for several years. Then I recalled again. I have. But I’ve learned that the to have the same interests and and reread the story from Luke 19 things that make me different—the about Zacchaeus. Because he was way I look, the way others look at me, YOU’RE NICE PEOPLE a publican, he was unpopular and the things I’m passionate about, the AND I AM A NICE considered a sinner. But when Jesus way I think about the world—these PERSON. BUT WE ARE passed through his city, Zacchaeus are not reasons to fall away. These are climbed a tree to see over the crowd. the reasons the Church needs all of us, JUST TOO He didn’t care what others thought with all our different talents, strengths, DIFFERENT. of him. It was this act of climbing the and perspectives. ◼ I DON’T BELONG HERE. tree—separating himself from the Elaine Vickers lives in Utah, USA.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Things to Ponder • What kinds of changes make it hard for some people to join the Church? • How might your friendship help someone come back to or stay strong in the Church?

Things You Might Do • Write down a list of challenges converts often have to overcome and set

BY GARY L. KAPP BY GARY goals for how you can help them. • Invite a recent convert or a less-active friend to help you run an activity for your class or quorum. • Share your experiences at church, at home, or online.

Zacchaeus climbed a tree to see over the crowd as Christ passed through his city. ZACCHAEUS, MAKE HASTE, COME DOWN,

December 2014 53 QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Hold to the Rod “What should I do When people make fun of me at my school, I think of the vision when I am mocked at that Lehi had about the great and spacious building: “It school for following was filled with people, both old and young, both male and female; and Church standards?” their manner of dress was exceedingly fine; and they were in the attitude of mocking and pointing their fingers f you are mocked for following Church standards, you towards those who had come at and can take it as an opportunity to represent Jesus Christ. Be were partaking of the fruit” (1 Nephi respectful and charitable. If prompted, you might explain 8:27). I will be like Lehi. I will never why you live the way you do. Consider using For the let go of this iron rod that leads to Strength of Youth to help you discuss your standards. Invite eternal life. Ithe Spirit into your life so He can touch the hearts of your peers. Pierre S., age 18, Haiti The Spirit can help you know what to say. You can also get advice from your parents, Church leaders, or Share the Gospel the full-time missionaries. Ask them how they have responded in As a friend and I were similar situations. completing the vir- At times you may feel tempted to argue with others about tue value project for your beliefs. But remember that “he that hath the spirit of con- Personal Progress, we tention is not of [Christ]” (3 Nephi 11:29). read the Book of Mormon at school At other times, you may feel pressure to give in and stop fol- during breaks. Our teacher and our lowing Church standards. Be strong. Standing firm will not only classmates began to make fun of us. At bless your life with peace, but it can bless the lives of your peers. times I wanted to stop reading, but I Your example can encourage them to make righteous decisions. simply could not leave my scriptures at Look to the example of the Savior for strength. The Savior home. We continued to read at school, was ridiculed for standing up for truth (see Isaiah 53). He knows and over time we weren’t made fun of exactly how you feel. He performed the Atonement for you and anymore. One of our friends became experienced the same trials you face. He is with you. Study more interested in the gospel and in Personal about His life so you can be like Him in these situations. Progress. We gave her the booklet and a triple combination, and since then we have been telling her about the gospel. Her brother also became interested in the gospel. They are both reading the Book of Mormon. Kimberly A., age 16, Brazil

54 Liahona Responses are intended for help and perspective, not as official pronouncements of Church doctrine. Youth - - org, or by mail (see mail (see or by org, May 2009, 126. May NOURISH YOUR NOURISH YOUR TESTIMONY the courage “Have firm to stand truth and for righteousness. Liahona, ldschurch. or org (click “Submit Your Work”), by by Work”), Your “Submit (click org Ensign Ensign lds. address on page 3). on page address and permission must information following The (1) full name, email or letter: be included in your or dis (4) stake or branch, (3) ward (2) birth date, trict, are written permission, and, if you (5) your written permission parent’s 18, your under age response to publish your is acceptable) (email and photograph. length or clarity. be edited for may Responses Submit your answer and, if desired, a high- and, if desired, answer your Submit at 15, 2015, January by photograph resolution liahona. email to liahona@ believe. Unless the roots of your of the roots Unless believe. it will firmly planted, are testimony you to withstand for be difficult who chal those the ridicule of testimony, . . . Your faith. your lenge nourished, will when constantly safe.” you keep Have You “May Thomas S. Monson, President Courage,” Because the trend in society trend the Because and the values from is away today us, has given principles the Lord certainly be called will almost you which you that upon to defend - the gospel at school. I the gospel at school. Be a Missionary had many I have regardingexperiences living the standards of leader?” be a Mia Maid class class be a Mia Maid president. How president. How can I be a better UPCOMING QUESTION UPCOMING “I feel inadequate to “I feel standards high, I have felt happy with happy felt I have standards high, like acting as God would myself for any doubt as leave Never me to act. believe. are and what you to who you Hiram D., age 18, Brazil have learned that this is an excellent have us to strengthen our testi moment for monies and participate in missionary myself found I have Whenever work. my this and kept in a situation like being the real me is being truebeing the real me is and OK if It’s from the world. different It is being me. me for don’t like they about it’s say; not about what others ways. Father’s Heavenly following age 19, Philippines Jazzy C., - -

For school events, my school events, For my classmates or even friends tell me to wear Remember Who Who Remember Are You pel. I think the best pel. Be an Example not a At my school, arelot of the students familiar with the gos they say that I must forget my beliefs that I must forget say they But world. in order to fit in with this that I know no. is always my answer clothes that are not appealing in God’s clothes that are not appealing in God’s must look cute. “You say, They eyes. Sometimes must look different.” You Emmanuel A., age 16, Ghana Your peers may learn and be filled peers may Your a sharing with the Spirit since you’re testimony of the gospel. don’t need to feel ashamed whendon’t need to feel can teach the standards You mocked. and share a testimony of living them. Once you know the blessings that the know Once you you from living the standards, follow Kelsey P., age 14, Florida, USA Kelsey P., Testimony Your Share be open to learning more about the gospel later on! will have a greater respect for you you a greater respect for will have your Remembering beliefs. and your may those same people example, no matter what they say to you, you you to you, say no matter what they and they set a wonderful example, thing you can do is show people how can do is show thing you posi you living the gospel affects and respectful By being kind tively. FROM THE MISSION FIELD

NO ANGELS NEEDED On that Christmas morning in a hospital in Guatemala, we couldn’t call on angels to sing. But we could call on ourselves.

By Jeniann Jensen Nielsen ireworks and firecrackers, brightly colored nativity But not Sister Anaya. She went to each bed, greeting scenes, and feasts featuring stuffed tamales—that’s those who were sick, asking them how they felt, and FChristmas in Guatemala. As a full-time missionary wishing them a merry Christmas. Her boldness reminded I found the traditions very different from my own tradi- the rest of us why we had come, and we started to sing tions in the United States. I was homesick and thought Christmas carols, softly at first but more confidently as we my Christmas would be miserable. continued. Some of the patients smiled, some just lay there My companion, Sister Anaya, said we would find joy on and didn’t seem to notice, and some hummed along. Christmas by serving others. She suggested that we spend Sister Anaya, singing with a hymnbook in her hand, the morning singing at the hospital, and we invited other approached a woman who was wrapped in bandages. The missionaries to join us. woman began to cry quietly, and my companion lovingly As we approached the entrance, I watched the people stroked her hair. Through her tears the woman spoke, “You waiting in line to see their loved ones. Their faces were are angels. You are angels.” sad, their sandal-clad feet dusty, their clothes faded. We I will never forget Sister Anaya’s response. “No, you are waited with them. When we were finally allowed to enter not hearing angels,” she replied. “You are hearing Latter- the building, we walked down narrow halls with flaking day Saints.” green paint and cement floors. The smells of medicines When Jesus Christ was born, an angel announced His and sickness overwhelmed me. birth and a multitude of the heavenly host praised God In the dim light I could see sick patients on beds in a (see Luke 2:8–14). I think of those angels every Christmas. large room with little ventilation or privacy. They lay there, But I also think of Sister Anaya. I remember her encour- some with bandages, some with IVs, some aging us to sing at the hospital and how we found joy by hooked up to machines to help them spreading joy. I remember her stroking the hair of that breathe. Some moaned quietly. Others sick woman. And I remember that I don’t need to slept. I wondered why we had be an angel to serve others. I can serve them as a come. Most in our small group of Latter-day Saint. ◼

missionaries stood in the doorway, The author lives in Utah, USA. BY CRAIG STAPLEY ILLUSTRATION not knowing what to do.

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BY DAVID LINDSLEY BY DAVID THE NATIVITY, THE NATIVITY, MAKE ROOM “Each of us is an innkeeper who decides if there is room for Jesus!” Elder Neal A. Maxwell (1926–2004) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Settle This in Your Hearts,” Ensign, Nov. 1992, 66. PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DAVID STOKER; BY DAVID PHOTO ILLUSTRATION By Elder Where Mervyn B. Arnold Of the Seventy How to DiscoverAm and Develop I? Your Spiritual Gifts and Talents

Heavenly Father has given was happening in their lives. We could where you live or what life circum- you spiritual gifts and talents ask ourselves similar questions. For stances you find yourself in, you can to help you become who example: Where are we on our jour- make the choice to succeed, regardless ney along the covenant path to eternal of your challenges. Don’t ever give up. He would have you become. life? What gifts and talents did our Keep going. Don’t quit. Remember, it’s Heavenly Father give us in the pre- what you do with what you have that mortal life to help us along this path? makes you who you are. n the scriptures we find many What other gifts and talents are we to Adam and Eve’s example can give questions that cause us to reflect on gain as we strive to become who the us a lot of hope. After they trans- our lives. One of the first questions Lord would have us become? gressed the commandment not to par- Iasked in the Bible was directed to President Joseph F. Smith (1838– take of the forbidden fruit, they were Adam after he partook of the forbid- 1918) stated, “Man, as a spirit, was cast out of a beautiful garden, the den fruit. I invite you to ponder how begotten and born of heavenly par- ground was cursed, thorns and thistles this question may apply to your life: ents, and reared to maturity in the appeared, and they had to work and “Adam and his wife hid themselves eternal mansions of the Father, prior till the earth to provide for themselves. from the presence of the Lord God to coming upon the earth in a tem- They did not give up. They went to amongst the trees of the garden. poral [physical] body.” 1 The Gospel work, as the Lord had commanded “And the Lord God called unto Principles manual teaches us that them (see Moses 5:1). Their son Cain Adam, and said unto him, Where “Father in Heaven knows who we made a very bad choice, but they art thou? ” (Genesis 3:8–9; emphasis are and what we did before we came continued to live righteously and kept added). here. He has chosen the time and teaching their children. The Lord is all-knowing, so we can place for each of us to be born so we be certain that He knew where Adam can learn the lessons we personally Uncle Ben’s Discovery and Eve were hiding. If He knew need and do the most good with our I have an uncle who was continu- where they were, what was the Lord individual talents and personalities.” 2 ally seeking to improve and increase really asking? Heavenly Father placed you in the the gifts and talents he had received This question most likely prompted best place to use your spiritual gifts from Heavenly Father. Let me share Adam and Eve to think about what and build your talents. No matter one story from his life that has helped

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December 2014 ere are some ways you can some ways you are ere have: determine what gifts you study it to see what gifts it mentions study in have or what potential you certain areas. are, and ask Him to bless you with and ask Him to bless you are, other gifts as well. gifts your can see Sometimes others can. clearly than you more talents your new skills to discover and spiritual gifts. If you have a patriarchal blessing, a patriarchal have you If Ask Heavenly Father what they Father Heavenly Ask well. you people who know Ask or learn in new activities Participate • WHAT ARE YOUR GIFTS? ARE YOUR WHAT H • • •

All it lacked now was a handle. a handle. was now All it lacked piece of metal became a beautiful awards. several that won knife take shape and become a beautiful, shape and become a beautiful, take shining masterpiece. and to the woods Uncle Ben went Back at his work an elk antler. found and polished cut, shop he cleaned, done, When he was the antler. Carefully smooth and beautiful. it was he attached the handle to the knife. bent rusty, once an old, What was -

Day after day he worked on what he worked after day Day When it cooled, he drew a large a large he drew When it cooled, With his boss’s permission, he took permission, his boss’s With Uncle Ben smiled and said, “I Uncle Ben smiled and said, One day when my uncle Ben was when One day his boss had called a worthless piecehis boss had called a worthless the blade began to Slowly of metal. edges, working hour after hour hour to working edges, and refine that old polish, grind, cut, piece of metal. the shape of a knife. Uncle Ben the shape of a knife. then began knocking off the rough knife-shaped pattern on it. With a With patternknife-shaped on it. he cut the metal into hot blowtorch, was able, with a great deal of work, to with a great deal of work, able, was straight.mold and bend it until it was it home. In his workshop he heated In his workshop it home. Then he red hot. the metal until it was see much more than an old piece of metal.” old piece of metal is worthless. You are You old piece of metal is worthless. pick it up.” time to even your wasting an old piece of bent metal lying by aan old piece of bent metal lying by his boss if he He asked railroad track. that “Ben, boss said, His it. could have at work at a copper mine, he noticed a copper mine, at at work me to see how spiritual giftsme to see how and tal and magnified. ents are developed

DO YOU HAVE ONE OF THESE GIFTS? “Let me mention a few gifts that are not always evident or noteworthy but that are very important. Among these may be your gifts—gifts not so evident but nevertheless real and valuable. You and I are like that old piece of metal. We also “Let us review some of these less-conspicuous need molding, refining, and polishing to reach our full gifts: the gift of asking; the gift of listening; the gift potential. Part of that process is discovering, strength- of hearing and using a still, small voice; the gift of ening, and multiplying our talents and gifts. being able to weep; the gift of avoiding contention; Uncle Ben understood that much of our potential the gift of being agreeable; the gift of avoiding vain is not visible on the surface and must be discovered repetition; the gift of seeking that which is righteous; and developed. The Lord teaches us to “seek ye ear- the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to nestly the best gifts” (D&C 46:8) and “that every man God for guidance; the gift of being a disciple; the gift may improve upon his talent, that every man may gain of caring for others; the gift of being able to ponder; other talents, yea, even an hundred fold” (D&C 82:18). the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty And why must we do this? We can use our talents and testimony; and the gift of receiving the Holy Ghost.” gifts to serve others, as the next verse explains: “Every Elder Marvin J. Ashton (1915–94) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, man seeking the interest of his neighbor, and doing all “There Are Many Gifts,” Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20.

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things with an eye single to the when we hear the Lord tell us, “Well multiply if you are willing to seek after glory of God” (D&C 82:19). Giving done. Thy gifts and talents shall be and work for them. service molds us into living a more multiplied because of thy diligence” I invite each of us to do as Uncle Christlike life. (see Matthew 25:14–30). Ben did: see the best in everything as we seek spiritual gifts and talents Finding Our Talents Your Spiritual Gifts and use them to bless those around Elder Richard G. Scott of the My wife discovered a talent for us. I know our Heavenly Father Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has painting. What are your gifts and has many gifts and talents that He taught how trials can shape us: “Just talents? I know our Heavenly Father wishes to bestow upon us, but they when all seems to be going right, has given you some. How do I know? “are made conditional on our ask- challenges often come in multiple “There are many gifts, and to every ing for them. Blessings require some doses applied simultaneously. When man is given a gift by the Spirit of work or effort on our part” (Bible those trials are not consequences of God” (D&C 46:11). God’s gifts and Dictionary, “Prayer”). May we discover, your disobedience, they are evidence powers are available to all of us. It is work for, and multiply the God-given that the Lord feels you are prepared to our right and responsibility to accept gifts and talents we were born with, grow more (see Proverbs 3:11–12). He our spiritual gifts, multiply our talents, and may we acquire other gifts is therefore gives you experiences that and share them. my humble prayer. ◼ stimulate growth, understanding, and The scriptures list a few gifts we can NOTES 1. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: compassion [two very important gifts] seek (see, for example, D&C 46), but Joseph F. Smith (1998), 335. which polish you for your everlasting there are actually hundreds of gifts and 2. Gospel Principles (2009), 10; emphasis added. benefit. To get you from where you are talents. Search the Book of Mormon, 3. Richard G. Scott, “Trust in the Lord,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 16–17; emphasis added. to where He wants you to be requires particularly 3 Nephi 11–26, and you a lot of stretching, and that generally will discover many gifts and talents that entails discomfort and pain.” 3 are available to each of us. For example, in 3 Nephi 11 we read about the Improving Our Talents people hearing Heavenly Father’s voice Increasing our talents requires but not understanding it at first: work. Not long ago, Elder Scott said to “The third time they did hear the my wife, “Devonna, you should paint.” voice, and did open their ears to hear Sister Arnold had never painted it; and their eyes were towards the in her life. She had to work at it. She sound thereof . . . . took some lessons, painted day after “And it came to pass, as they under- day, and after a great deal of time stood they cast their eyes up again and effort learned to paint beau- towards heaven; and behold, they saw tifully. I have one of her gorgeous a Man [ Jesus Christ] descending out of paintings of a river scene hanging on heaven” (verses 5, 8). my office wall. To hear clearly and to see clearly Yes, obtaining talents requires are just two examples of spiritual gifts work, but how great shall be our joy and talents that you can obtain and

December 2014 61 and paraded like a banner. The most Are we following the Lord’s com- By Elder fundamental roots and bulwarks (pro- mand, “Stand ye in holy places, and Dallin H. Oaks tective walls) of civilization are ques- be not moved, until the day of the Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles tioned or attacked. Nations disavow Lord come; for behold, it cometh their religious heritage. Marriage and quickly”? (D&C 87:8). family responsibilities are discarded as We are surrounded by challenges impediments to personal indulgence. on all sides (see 2 Corinthians 4:8–9). The movies and magazines and televi- But with faith in God, we trust the sion that shape our attitudes are filled blessings He has promised those who with stories or images that portray the keep His commandments. We have HOW TO children of God as predatory beasts faith in the future, and we are prepar- or, at best, as trivial creations pursu- ing for that future. PREPARE ing little more than personal pleasure. “Wherefore,” the Savior tells us, “be And too many of us accept this as faithful, praying always, having your FOR THE entertainment. lamps trimmed and burning, and oil The good, the true, and the beauti- with you, that you may be ready at SECOND ful are being replaced by the no-good, the coming of the Bridegroom— the “whatever,” and the valueless fod- “For behold, verily, verily, I say COMING der of personal whim. Not surprisingly, unto you, that I come quickly” (D&C many are caught up in pornography, 33:17–18). ◼ his life is the time for men to pagan piercing of body parts, self- From an April 2004 general conference “ prepare to meet God” (Alma serving pleasure pursuits, dishonest address. T34:32). Are we preparing? behavior, revealing attire, foul language, What if the day of His coming and degrading sexual indulgence. were tomorrow? If we knew that we All of this is grievous in the sight of would meet the Lord tomorrow— our Heavenly Father, who loves all through our premature death or of His children and forbids every through His unexpected coming— practice that keeps any from what would we do today? What returning to His presence. confessions would we make? What What is the state of our per- practices would we discontinue? sonal preparation for eternal What accounts would we settle? What life? The people of God have forgivenesses would we extend? always been people of cov- What testimonies would we bear? enant, including the sacred promises ANDERSON BY HARRY If we would do those things then, we made in the waters of baptism, in why not now? Why not seek peace receiving the holy priesthood, and in

while peace can be obtained? the temples of God. Are we promisers THE SECOND COMING, Evil that used to be localized and who do not fulfill and believers who

covered like a boil is now legalized do not perform? FROM DETAIL

62 Liahona Y outh MY CHRISTMAS GIFT What would I give the Savior this year?

By Dustin Ward y usual spot in ninth-grade seminary the front of the class. Some shed tears, oth- was in the back row, where I could ers shared goals they had set, and some told Mtalk and joke around with my friend. stories. I couldn’t believe it. I had only signed up for seminary because Time was ticking. I was the only one who there was an open space in my schedule. hadn’t gone. Before I knew it, I was on my Seminary was offered during the school day feet. I had no idea what I was going to say. where I lived, and a school counselor sug- Then, with a shaky voice, I said, “This year gested I take it since I’m a Latter-day Saint. I for Christ’s birthday, I’m going to start going knew the teacher’s name, but that was about to church.” all I had learned from class. From that day forward, I started going to Then my friend was gone one day, so I ran church as my gift to the Savior. The ironic into a problem: I had no one to joke with. part was that I was the one who received the How would I pass the time? In a panic, I gift. Going back to church changed my life, went with the only other option—I listened. and it all started the day I stopped talking It was the first time I paid any attention to the long enough to listen and allow the Spirit to teacher. touch my heart. As I look back, I don’t remember a word The Spirit still speaks to me. he said that day, but I do remember being All I have to do is stop captivated. My friend was back the next day, to listen—and then but instead of joking around, I listened and follow. ◼ was again pulled in. The author lives in I eventually moved from the back of the Utah, USA. room and sat on the front row, where I could pay better attention. Not a class went by in which I didn’t feel a strong interest in the lesson or in the students who were sharing their testimonies. I enjoyed seminary so much that I signed up for it again the next year. I had been baptized at eight years old but had never really gone to church. But something changed one day in December right before the Christmas break. The teacher invited us to come to the front of the room and say what gift we would give Christ that year. “No one will do this,” I thought. But, to my

ILLUSTRATION BY BEN SIMONSEN ILLUSTRATION surprise, one by one the students walked to

READY TO MOVE FORWARD

NODOKA T. JOSH W.

GRACE S.

BRIAN R.

AÏOLAH AND EVALINE V.

JOHN C.

By Richard M. Romney, Church Magazines Advancing from Primary into and Mickey Shimomiya, Tokyo, Japan Young Men or Young Women? Check out these thoughts from ou are almost 12. Life is full of changes. At church, you’re advancing from Primary into Young Men or seven 12-year-olds who are mak- YYoung Women. That means setting goals, giving ing that transition. service, preparing for the temple, learning more about the gospel. But don’t be nervous! Others going through the same thing say it’s great.

64 Liahona Y outh

Two Together Ask Questions Make New Friends Aïolah V. of France is a 12-year- Twelve-year-old Brian R. of “I was nervous when the coun- FORWARD old Beehive. So is her sister Arizona, USA, was preparing to selor asked me to go to stake Evaline, who turns 13 in a month. pass the sacrament for the first Young Women camp for the first “I’m glad my sister is here to help time. He didn’t want to make a time,” says Nodoka T. of Okinawa, me move from Primary into Young mistake, so he asked the other Japan. “I decided to pray. After Women,” Aïolah says. Aaronic Priesthood holders in his my prayer I felt comfortable, so I One of their favorite things is ward to explain things to him. decided to go. Personal Progress, but when they “They were great,” he says. “From the very first day, I was read about one goal, they laughed. “They told me where to stand, able to make new friends. The “Learn to play a musical instru- where to go, and how to pass the young women were so nice and ment,” it said. trays.” kind to me; my fear soon disap- “We’ve been playing for years,” But even more important, they peared. And I learned to purify Evaline says. But then they talked reminded him to be reverent. “We water, tie knots, make bandages, with their mother. She helped need to remember the Savior as perform rescue breathing, and find them to see that they could use we pass the sacrament,” Brian says. edible plants!” music to fulfill another goal: “If we are reverent, it helps others service. to remember Him too.” Aïolah and Evaline are now Brian learned that others are preparing to perform in sacrament happy to help him to understand meetings and talent nights, give his duties and to learn to do them concerts for children and seniors, well. “Just ask,” he says. “Moving and accompany missionaries as from Primary into Young Men is Feel Welcome they sing. easier than you think.” “My first day in Young Women “Personal Progress is nice,” was my birthday,” says Grace S. Evaline says. “It lets you do what of Arizona, USA. “They made a you love and do new things too.” fuss about it, but then they kept being kind. They made me feel welcome.” Her adviser also welcomed her. “She tells us about things she did when she was in Young Women,” Grace says. “And she goes through the Personal Progress booklet with each of us, to make sure we understand.” PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF RICHARD M. ROMNEY, RANDALL R. RIPPLINGER, AND MICKEY SHIMOMIYA PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF RICHARD M. ROMNEY,

December 2014 65 EXPLORE TO LEARN MORE Find out what’s in store for you in Young Men or Young Women. Go to youth.lds. org.

Learn, Teach, and Share WORKING TOGETHER ON DUTY As a new deacon, Josh W. of Utah, we’re learning a lot and sharing. TO GOD USA, was asked to teach a lesson That means doing a lot with what we welve-year-old John C. and his father about being a disciple of Christ. “I learn.” For example, after a priest- Toften work on projects together. For found scriptures about when Peter hood lesson, Josh visited a friend who example, they sewed patches on blan- and others were fishing. They tried hadn’t been to church for a long time. kets they will use when they go camping. one side of the boat and didn’t catch “His parents work on Sundays, so they The patches are from various camps and anything,” Josh says. “Then the Savior don’t come. But I told him he could activities they have attended in British told them to fish on the other side, come with me.” Columbia, Canada, where they live. and they caught lots of fish (see Luke Josh is learning the purpose of “Dad’s a great help,” John says. “I can’t 5:5–11 and John 21:6–11). So in my Young Men and Young Women. “It’s imagine doing Church projects without lesson, we read that. Then we talked to show us how to become more like him.” about how it’s like that for us. When the Savior,” he says. He knows that When John turned 12, they reviewed we go on our own, we can have trou- the call to “come unto Christ” means the Duty to God booklet together. Soon ble. But when we listen to the Lord, moving along a path that started with they came to the “Understand Doctrine” He helps us.” baptism and confirmation, continues items in the Deacon section. “Dad Josh says that learning, teaching, toward the temple, and leads to eter- explained to me about priesthood keys and sharing are important in Young nal life. and authority,” John says. And that helped Men. “In Primary we learned a lot and “I’m ready to move forward,” he John fulfill one of the requirements. had lots of activities,” he says. “Now says. ◼ “When you’re doing Duty to God,” John says, “get your father involved. My dad has already helped me a lot.”

66 Liahona SPECIAL WITNESS C Did Jesus really die hildren and rise

By Elder D. Todd again? Christofferson Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles The members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are special witnesses of Jesus Christ. BY HARRY ANDERSON; PHOTOGRAPH OF FLOWERS BY ISAILORR/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK BY HARRY Yes. I stand as a witness that Jesus of Nazareth is the THE WOMAN TAKEN IN ADULTERY, THE WOMAN TAKEN resurrected Redeemer. BY HARRY ANDERSON; DETAIL FROM ANDERSON; DETAIL BY HARRY THE ASCENSION, BY CARL HEINRICH BLOCH; He was the There is a Creator of resurrection the earth. for all. JESUS HEALING THE BLIND,

His miracles His grace is real, were real. allowing all people He will come again.

BY DEL PARSON; DETAIL FROM DETAIL BY DEL PARSON; to repent and become clean. HE IS RISEN,

DETAIL FROM DETAIL From “The Resurrection of Jesus Christ,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 111–14.

December 2014 67 BRINGING PRIMARY HOME Learn more about this month’s Primary theme! We Remember and Worship Our Savior, Jesus Christ

By Erin Sanderson and Jean Bingham

ong ago Heavenly Father L told His prophets about a wonderful gift that He was going to send to the whole world. That gift was His own Son, Jesus Christ, who would come to earth to be our Savior. Jesus would show us the way to live so we could return to Heavenly Father. The prophets looked forward with great joy to the time when Jesus would be born. When angels told the shepherds near Bethlehem that the special baby who was the Son of God had been born, they felt great joy. They SCRIPTURE hurried to see and worship Him. • John 14:6 In the Americas, the Nephites knew He was born when the sky stayed light all night even though the sun went down. They too felt and gratitude for the gift of great joy and thanked Heavenly our Savior by following His IDEAS FOR FAMILY TALK Father for the gift of His Son. example of giving love to Talk about the many ways Jesus Christ showed In our day we remember and others in as many ways as love. As a family choose some ways to show celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ we can. ◼ love to others during December as a way to at Christmastime. We show our joy The authors live in Utah, USA. remember and follow Jesus Christ’s example. LEFT: ILLUSTRATION BY NATHAN PINNOCK BY NATHAN ILLUSTRATION LEFT:

68 Liahona C hildren GIFTS OF LOVE Cut out the gift boxes along the solid lines. Write your own gift activity on the blank one. Fold on the broken lines; then tape the lids down. Punch a hole at the top of each gift and attach string. Hang the gifts where you can see them. Every few days, open a “gift” and do the activity inside. Remember, you can give these gifts throughout the year!

Speak kind words. Read Luke 2:1–20 with a family member.

Write a thank- you letter. Write your own gift here.

You can print more copies of this activity at liahona.lds.org.

December 2014 69 Yancy

By Elder Brent H. Nielson Of the Seventy

“And now I would that ye should We often went to the pasture to I was sad. We loved Yancy. If she be humble, and be submissive and see Yancy. We couldn’t wait for the had been obedient to the trainer, gentle” (Alma 7:23). day we could ride her. But no matter she could have become a happy y siblings and I always how hard anyone tried, no one could horse with a wonderful life. But Mwanted a horse. When I was train Yancy. She was too stubborn. Yancy wouldn’t listen to and follow about 9 or 10 years old, my dad We were never able to ride her. her master. Instead she was now bought a beautiful black mare. One day my dad’s friend tried injured and lying in the middle of We named her Yancy. We were so to ride her in a parade. As Yancy the street. excited to have this horse, but she and her rider were going down the Yancy’s story taught me of the hadn’t been trained to be ridden. road, Yancy bucked the rider off blessings that come when we We were too young to do all the and started to run through the city. follow the Master, our Savior hard work it takes to train a horse, Yancy ran so wildly that she cut her Jesus Christ. When we are kind so my dad asked a friend who leg on a fire hydrant. I chased after and gentle and humble, we can knew a lot about horses to help Yancy and found her lying in the be happy as we let the Savior

train Yancy. street in pain. lead us. ◼ BY DAN BURR ILLUSTRATION

70 Liahona Children Brazil scriptures. I can read the This is my first Now that I can Anna L., age 5, Book of Mormon. read some words, Saria C., age 10, Italy returned to Italy, a rainbow came out. Italy, returned to days. On Saturday morning, before we morning, before days. On Saturday

Last year my family and I went with our family and I went Last year my

ward to the temple in Switzerland for four temple in Switzerland ward to the We made family trees made We for a Primary activity. Las Heras Ward, Argentina

and spoke our parts anyway. Vientiane Branch, Laos Last year we had our first Primary sacrament The power was out meeting presentation ever. the week before during our practice, but we sang OURPAGE FRIENDS AROUND THE WORLD Hallå, Vänner!* I’m Minna from Sweden * “Hello, friends!” in Swedish

From an interview by Amie Jane Leavitt

ow would you like to live in a school- Hhouse? Minna and her family live in the countryside of southern Sweden. Their home used to be a schoolhouse many years ago. She says the best part is that the house has a room big enough for lots of people. This is a big In December, Minna’s family invites neigh- zucchini squash that I picked in bors, friends, and family over for a special our garden. “sing-in.” About 80 people come to sing Christmas carols together. Then they enjoy treats before everyone goes back out into the cold Scandinavian winter weather. ◼ The author lives in Utah, USA. PHOTOGRAPH OF STOCKHOLM BY MARK OLEKSIY/HEMERA/THINKSTOCK; ILLUSTRATIONS BY BRAD TEARE PHOTOGRAPH OF STOCKHOLM BY MARK OLEKSIY/HEMERA/THINKSTOCK; ILLUSTRATIONS Children 73

December 2014

READY TO GO! bag is packed with some of Minna’s her favorite things. Which of these things would you pack in your bag? I LOVE TO SEE THE TEMPLE is The Stockholm Sweden Temple near my grandparents’ home. This temple has a special place in my heart. One time my dad and I walked talked about around the grounds. We the temple and how I would get to go inside one day. I am 10 years old and theI am 10 years old and inyoungest of 9 children of my sisters Two my family. are serving missions—one atin France and the other Square in Utah. Temple My family loves swimming together. My family loves swimming together. we go to a lake near In the summer, we go to our house. In the winter, an indoor facility that has many pools and waterslides. means I am being a missionary right now, right now, being a missionary means I am sisters. just like my At my school I am the only member of the member am the only school I At my with my gospel to share the so I try Church, of my friends bring some I often friends. days. That to my Primary activity from school trampoline. I also enjoy playing the piano and the flute. I love to jump on the who live there. my family is drive north to Sweden’s my family is drive north to Sweden’s capital of Stockholm. I love visiting my grandparents and other relatives One of my favorite things to do with You can put on this play with your family, The First friends, or Primary class. Read Luke 2:1–16 to help you Christmas prepare. By Jenn Wilks

CHARACTERS: Mary Joseph Innkeeper Shepherd 1 Shepherd 2 Angel

COSTUMES: Make the costumes simple: a robe for Joseph, a scarf for Mary, and staffs for the shepherds. ILLUSTRATIONS BY JULIE YOUNG ILLUSTRATIONS

PROPS: a blanket draped across two chairs for the stable small pillows to represent sheep a doll or bundled-up blanket to represent the baby Jesus

74 Liahona C hildren

Song: “When Joseph Went to Joseph: There isn’t room in the Song: “Stars Were Gleaming” Bethlehem,” first verse inn, but the innkeeper said we can (Children’s Songbook, 37). (Children’s Songbook, 38). sleep in the stable. [Shepherds go to the inn and knock Mary: I hope we can Mary: Oh, I’m so glad we at the “door.” Innkeeper answers.] find a place to stay soon. found a place for the IDEA: Shepherd 2: We’ve come to see the We have been traveling Have the audience night. Christ child. for so long. sing the songs with the [They walk to the sta- characters. Shepherd 1: An angel told us He Joseph: There is an inn ble. Mary and Joseph would be lying in a manger. up ahead. Wait here and sit down, and the scene Shepherd 2: Do you know where rest while I find out if there ends.] He is? is room for us. Song: “When Joseph Innkeeper: A child was born in [ Joseph helps Mary sit down Went to Bethlehem,” my stable tonight. I’ll show you and then knocks at the “door.” second and third verses the way. Innkeeper answers.] (Children’s Songbook, 38). [Shepherds follow the innkeeper to Innkeeper: What do you want? [Shepherds are watching their the stable, where Joseph and Mary sheep. The angel comes, and the Joseph: I’m looking for a place to are seated next to a manger with shepherds fall to their knees.] stay. My wife and I have come a the baby Jesus inside.] long way, and we need a place to Shepherd 1: Who are you? Shepherd 1: It’s true! There sleep. Shepherd 2: Please don’t hurt us. really is a baby lying in a Innkeeper: I’m sorry, but the inn is Angel: Do not be afraid. I bring manger, just like the angels full. joyful news! Tonight the said there would be.

Joseph: Please, can’t you do some- Son of God was born IDEA: Shepherd 2: This really thing to help us? My wife is going in Bethlehem. You will Put a big paper star is the Savior, Christ to have a baby soon. find the baby lying in a on a stick and hold it the Lord. manger. over the stable. Innkeeper: I guess you could sleep [Shepherds and in the stable. It’s all I have. Shepherd 1: Let us go innkeeper kneel around Joseph: Thank you. That is very now and see this child. the manger.] kind. Angel: Glory to God in the Song: “Silent Night” (Hymns, [ Joseph goes to Mary and helps highest, and on earth peace, good no. 204). ◼ her up.] will toward men. The author lives in Utah, USA.

December 2014 75 Look Inside!

I went to a corner of the room and prayed very quietly. “Heavenly Father, I ask Thee to help me give this book to my teacher.” When I finished my prayer, I felt very strongly that I should give the book to her. Suddenly I had courage. I went up to her. She looked at me, and I gave her the Book of Mormon and said, “Teacher, I love you from the bottom of my heart, and I want to give you this Book of Mormon!” She took it and looked at the cover. “Look inside!” I said. She saw that I had written a few words. She hugged me and said, “Oh, Sophia, thank you for giving this to me!” After I sat down, she said to the class, “Look what Sophia gave me. I am going to read it during the holidays!” When I got home, I ran to my mother and said, “Guess what! I gave my teacher a Book of Mormon.” By Sophia C., age 9, Brazil She smiled and said, “That’s won- efore Christmas my parents When I got to the music class- derful! You’re a great example to Bbought a box full of copies of room, I saw my music teacher and me, Sophia.” the Book of Mormon to give to peo- thought, “Go ahead, Sophia. Give We decided to pray to thank ple. That was when I had the idea to one to her!” I walked slowly up to Heavenly Father for giving me the take some to school and give them my teacher. But I didn’t have the courage to give my teacher the

as presents to three of my teachers. courage to give her the book. Book of Mormon. ◼ BY MARK ROBISON ILLUSTRATION

76 Liahona OLD TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE FIGURES C hildren David and Goliath 1 Samuel 17

lue this page to heavy paper or cardboard. Then Gcut out the figures and attach them to craft sticks or paper bags. You can use them to help act out your favorite Old Testament stories. ◼

David

Goliath

David ILLUSTRATIONS BY BETH M.WHITTAKER ILLUSTRATIONS

You can print more copies at liahona.lds.org. December 2014 77 FOR YOUNG CHILDREN A Bit of Christmas Every Day All of the presents were wrapped and under the tree. Or were they?

By Kate Strongin Christmas?” Mom asked. “What else?” Based on a true story “Because it’s Jesus’s birthday!” “Keeping the command- “Have a very merry Christmas! Amalie said. ments,” Amalie said. Scatter gladness ev’rywhere!” “Then shouldn’t we give a “Being nice,” Noah said. (Children’s Songbook, 51). present to Him?” Mom said. “Great ideas!” Mom said. hristmas was almost here. Dad helped Amalie’s brother “Now let’s play a game. I’ll say CAmalie was excited. Soon Noah read a scripture. It said a gift someone gave to Jesus. she could unwrap the presents that when we serve other Tell me if you know who it under the tree! people, we are serving God was. Here we go. This person At family home evening it (see Mosiah 2:17). gave out Christmas cards at the was Mom’s turn to give the “Is serving others giving a gift care center.” lesson. to Jesus?” Mom said. Noah raised his hand. “Why do we give presents at Noah nodded. “Amalie did that!” Love, Amalie

Love, Amalie ILLUSTRATIONS BY DILLEEN MARSH ILLUSTRATIONS

78 Liahona C hildren A Bit of Christmas Every Day

“This person went home it was the same as helping Later that week Amalie teaching.” Jesus. She found a cloth and helped pick up pillows. Her “That’s Daddy,” Amalie said. wiped the counters until baby brother had thrown them Soon they had named lots of they shone. off the couch. “Another present gifts they had already given to The next day Amalie earned for Jesus,” she said. the Savior. some money. On Christmas Eve, Mom and “We can give gifts every day,” “Your tithing is eight cents,” Dad told Amalie they were Mom said. Mom said. proud of her. “You’ve been The next morning it was Amalie remembered giving gifts to Jesus all week time to clean the house. “Oh again. Tithing is a command- long,” Dad said. “That’s like no,” Amalie groaned. But then ment, so paying it is a gift. having a little bit of Christmas she remembered. Serving oth- She put eight cents in her every day.” ◼ ers is a gift! If she helped Mom, tithing jar. The author lives in Utah, USA.

Love, Amalie Love, Amalie

December 2014 79 UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN

By Elder Melvin J. Ballard (1873–1939) Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

I KNOW THAT HE LIVES I would give all that I am, all that I ever hope to be, to feel what I then felt!

love to contemplate what it cost our my tears and kisses, I saw the prints of I Father in Heaven to give us the gift the nails in the feet of the Redeemer of His Beloved Son, that worthy Son of the world. The feeling that I had of our Father, who so loved the world in the presence of Him who hath all that He laid His life down to redeem things in His hands, to have His love, the world, to save us and to feed us His affection, and His blessing was spiritually while we walk in this life, such that if I can receive that of which and prepare us to go and dwell with a raised platform, the most glorious I had but a foretaste, I would give all Him in the eternal worlds. . . . being my eyes have ever beheld or that I am, all that I ever hope to be, to I recall an experience which I that I ever conceived existed in all the feel what I then felt! had . . . , bearing witness to my soul eternal worlds. . . . I see Jesus not now upon the of the reality of [the Savior’s] death, of As I approached to be introduced, cross. I do not see His brow pierced His Crucifixion, and His Resurrection, He arose and stepped towards me with thorns nor His hands torn with that I shall never forget. . . . with extended arms, and He smiled the nails, but I see Him smiling, . . . I found myself one evening in as He softly spoke my name. If I shall with extended arms, saying to us all: the dreams of the night in that sacred live to be a million years old, I shall “Come unto me!” ◼ building, the temple. After a season of never forget that smile. He took me Capitalization has been standardized. prayer and rejoicing I was informed into His arms and kissed me, pressed From Bryant S. Hinckley, Sermons and that I should have the privilege of me to His bosom, and blessed me, Missionary Services of Melvin Joseph entering into one of those rooms, to until the marrow of my bones seemed Ballard (1949), 147–57, as reprinted BY HEINRICH HOFMANN, COURTESY OF C. HARRISON CONROY CO. in “Classic Discourses from the General meet a glorious personage, and, as to melt! When He had finished, I fell Authorities: The Sacramental Covenant,”

I entered the door, I saw, seated on at His feet, and, as I bathed them with New Era, Jan. 1976, 7–11. CHRIST’S IMAGE,

80 Liahona INSIGHTS

In what ways is Jesus Christ the Light of the World?

“[Jesus Christ] is the Light of Bethlehem, born of Mary, His mortal mother, and His Father, Almighty God. . . . He is the Light of the Atonement fulfilled in the Garden of Gethsemane and on Golgotha, who took upon Himself the sins of the world, that all mankind may obtain eternal salvation. He is the Light of the empty tomb, the resurrected Lord with a glorified body of flesh and bone, who broke the bands of death and gained an everlasting victory over the grave. . . . He is my Light, my Redeemer, my Savior—and yours.”

Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Out of Darkness into His Marvelous Light,” Ensign, May 2002, 71, 72; Liahona, July 2002, 79, 80. Also in This Issue FOR YOUNG ADULTS

The Answer TO ALL THE HARD QUESTIONS President Uchtdorf has counseled us to doubt our doubts before doubting our faith. So how can you p. 44 doubt your doubts and go forward in faith?

FOR YOUTH THE SAVIOR AND THE SACRAMENT What should you really be thinking about while preparing, blessing, passing, or partaking of the sacrament? p. 48

FOR CHILDREN

The First p. 74 Christmas Make the Christmas story come to life by acting out this nativity play!