THE ENSIGN OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTSН%&$&.#&3 2008

COVER STORY Room in the Inn, p. 12 Temple Blessings in a Part-Member Family, p. 23 Remembering , p. 40 Integrity in the Workplace, p. 44 I Moroni, Wander Whithersoever, by Jorge Cocco “Now I, Moroni, after having made an end of abridging the account of the people of Jared, I had supposed not to have written more, but I have not as yet perished; and I make not myself known to the Lamanites lest they should destroy me. . . . “And I, Moroni, will not deny the Christ; wherefore, I wander whithersoever I can for the safety of mine own life” (Moroni 1:1, 3). DECEMBER 2008 Contents 70-6.&Н/6.#&3

Becoming Spiritually Whole, p. 34

416

ON THE COVER

The Nativity, by Jon McNaughton MESSAGES FEATURE ARTICLES FIRST PRESIDENCY How Could I Help? MESSAGE APRIL A. LOVE As9 winter approached, I was stunned to fi nd a family living The Best in a tent. 4 Christmas Ever PRESIDENT THOMAS S. Room in the Inn MONSON ELDER NEIL L. ANDERSEN Giving, not getting, brings Our12 van limped into the little village, where we had one last to full bloom the Christmas chance for help on Christmas Eve. spirit. Three Christmas Stories VISITING TEACHING Members refl ect on the important lessons of MESSAGE memorable 16 Christmases.

Jesus Christ Is the Light, Life, and 59Hope of the World

26 48

Gather to the Temple The Energy Drink Epidemic ELDER CLAUDIO R. M. COSTA THOMAS J. BOUD, MD Would20 you travel seven days to attend the ? In48 recent years there has been an explosion of energy drinks with high levels of caffeine. How can they affect the body? Temple Blessings in a Part-Member Family KAY PRZYBILLE The Other Part of Forgiveness How23 the principles I learned in the temple blessed my BECKY DASTRUP relationships with my family. I53 wanted to do more than ignore my anger. I wanted to let it go. Gospel Classics: Consecrate Thy Performance ELDER NEAL A. MAXWELL From a Small and Simple Invitation In26 consecrating your performance, are you keeping back TOM SMITH “part of the price”? I54 wasn’t a Church member, and I didn’t know the Church was true. Why did I bear my testimony? My Answer at the Door VICTOR L. HARRIS As31 I prayed for my infant son’s life, I felt a ray of hope. DO YOU HAVE A STORY TO TELL? Do you—or does someone you love—serve in the military? Share how the gospel has helped you with the challenges unique to military life—the Becoming Spiritually Whole more specific, the better. Topics might include dealing with separation, pro- SHARI PHIPPEN When34 I asked the Lord to heal me, the answer was not tection from harm, spiritual promptings, conversion to the gospel, return- what I expected. ing to Church activity, using the priesthood, or dealing with temptation. Please label your submission “Military” and send it by January 20, 2009. We also welcome other submissions that show the gospel of Jesus Four Tips for Family Night Christ at work in your life. You can find this and other calls for articles 37 DEANN STARKEY online at http://ensign.lds.org. Ensign Magazine Writers’ Guidelines are How we made family home evening the best night of the week. posted on the same page under “Resources.” Send submissions to [email protected] or Ensign Editorial, 50 I Remember Joseph E. North Temple Street, Room 2420, , UT 84150-3220, Eyewitnesses to events in the life of the Joseph USA. Include your name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, 40Smith testify of what they saw. ward (or branch), and stake (or district). Because of the volume of submissions we receive, we cannot acknowledge receipt. Authors whose Questions and Answers work is selected for publication will be notified. If you would like your How can I stand up for what I believe without manuscript, photos, art, or other material returned, please include a self- 44seeming self-righteous or judgmental to my co-workers? addressed, stamped envelope.

THE ENSIGN CAN BE FOUND ONLINE AT http://ensign.lds.org 2 DECEMBER 2008 VOLUMEН/6.#&R 12

AN OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS The First Presidency: Thomas S. Monson, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Christofferson Editor: Spencer J. Condie Advisers: Gary J. Coleman, Kenneth Johnson, Yoshihiko Kikuchi, W. Douglas Shumway Managing Director: David L. Frischknecht Editorial Director: Victor D. Cave Graphics Director: Allan R. Loyborg Managing Editor: Don L. Searle Assistant Managing Editor: LaRene Porter Gaunt Senior Editors: Linda Stahle Cooper, Larry Hiller, Michael R. Morris, 20 60 Judith M. Paller, Joshua J. Perkey Assistant Editor: Melissa Merrill Editorial Staff: Susan Barrett, Ryan Carr, Jenifer L. Greenwood, R. Val Johnson, USING THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS GOSPEL TOPICS IN THIS ISSUE Adam C. Olson, Laurel Teuscher Enjoy the blessings of the Addiction, 48 Honesty, 44 Editorial Intern: Meagan D. Lake Senior Secretary: Christy Banz On pages 20 and 23 LESSONS FROM THE Atonement, 34 Hope, 59 temple. Managing Art Director: are stories of members who Baptism, 62 Individual Worth, Charity, 9,16, 56, 34 M. M. Kawasaki commit to attend the temple Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen Living by the Light 60, 62 Integrity, 44 Senior Designers: C. Kimball Bott, in spite of difficult family of Christ Christmas, 4, 9, Jesus Christ, Colleen Hinckley or financial circumstances. ELDER56 SPENCER J. CONDIE 12,16, 26, 61, 4, 16, 26, 56, Design and Production Staff: How can we keep the Light of 62, 64, 65 59, 65 Cali R. Arroyo, Collette Nebeker Aune, Consider what you can do to Thomas S. Child, Eric P. Johnsen, Christ bright in our lives? Compassion, 62 , 40 Scott M. Mooy, Jane Ann Peters, increase your temple attendance Consecration, 26 Kindness, 9, 12 Scott Van Kampen or become worthy to hold a Conversion, 23, Light of Christ, Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick temple recommend. LATTER-DAY SAINT 31, 54, 62 56, 59 Distribution Director: Randy J. Benson VOICES Covenants, 23 Love, 60, 62, 64 © 2008 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. Share the Christmas spirit. Latter-day60 Saints find joy in Death, 16 Missionary Work, All rights reserved. The Ensign (ISSN Several articles in this issue focus giving gifts of compassion, Faith, 9, 34 16, 53 0884-1136) is published monthly by The on the blessings we receive music, and testimony. Family, 23, 37, Music, 16, 61 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 61, 64 Patience, 23 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, when we give to others, even UT 84150-3220, USA. Periodicals Postage Family Home Prayer, 9, 12, 23, Paid at Salt Lake City, . under difficult or uncomfort- Evening, 37, 65 31, 53 RANDOM SAMPLER To subscribe: By phone, call able circumstances (see pages Serving in the Finances, 64 Sacrifice, 20 1-800-537-5971 to order using Visa, 4, 9, 12, 16, and 60). Consider 64community, creating Forgiveness, 53 Scriptures, 53 MasterCard, Discover Card, or American Christmas traditions, Giving, 4, 9, 16 Service, 9, 16, Express. Online, go to ldscatalog.com. By ways you can help your children Grace, 26 26, 64 mail, send $10 U.S. check or money order to encouraging fitness, and Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt experience the spirit of giving Gratitude, 12, 20, Submissiveness, 26 giving simple, effective Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. during the Christmas season. 26, 60 Temple, 20, 23 lessons. Healing, 31, 34 Testimony, 40, 54 To change address: Send both old and Celebrate the season. To find new address information to Distribution Health, 48, 64 Virtue, 44 Services at the above address. Please allow out what Christmas events are Heavenly Father, 62 Word of Wisdom, 60 days for changes to take effect. taking place in your or are INDEX Holy Ghost, 56 48 FOR 2008 Text and visual material in the Ensign may available via satellite broadcast, 66 be copied for incidental, noncommercial church or home use. Visual material may not go to the “News and Events” link COMING be copied if restrictions are indicated in the on LDS.org. Select “Calendar” NEWS OF THE credit line with the artwork. Copyright CHURCH IN JANUARY questions should be addressed to Intellectual and then click on the individual 74 Look for articles on: Property Office, 50 E. North Temple Street, event for further information. Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3011; e-mail: НStudying the Doctrine and [email protected]. Remember to check your indi- Covenants. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to vidual stake and ward Web site Н Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt The blessings of institute. Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. calendar for local events. НThe Prophet Joseph Canada Post Information: Publication Smith. Agreement #40017431

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 3

FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE

The Best Christmas Ever BY PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON

t this season of the year, the airways President David O. McKay (1873–1970) are filled with the music of Christmas. declared: “True happiness comes only by A My heart often turns to home and making others happy—the practical applica- to Christmases past as I listen to some of my tion of the Savior’s doctrine of losing one’s favorite Christmas , such as this one: life to gain it. In short, the Christmas spirit is the Christ spirit, that makes our hearts glow Oh, there’s no place like home in brotherly love and friendship and prompts For the holidays, ’cause no matter us to kind deeds of service. How far away you roam “It is the spirit of the gospel of Jesus Christ, If you want to be happy in a million ways obedience to which will bring ‘peace on For the holidays, you can’t beat earth,’ because it means—good will toward Giving, not getting, Home, sweet home.1 all men.”3 brings to full bloom Giving, not getting, brings to full bloom the the Christmas spirit. One writer said: “Again Christmas, abiding Christmas spirit. Enemies are forgiven, friends We become more point of return. Set apart by its mystery, mood remembered, and God obeyed. The spirit of interested in people and magic, the season seems, in a way to stand Christmas illuminates the picture window of the than things. outside time. All that is dear, that is lasting, soul, and we look out upon the world’s busy BY HARRY ANDERSON, © SEVENTH-DAY ANDERSON, © SEVENTH-DAY BY HARRY renews its hold on us: we are home again.”2 life and become more interested in people than things. To catch the real meaning of the “spirit of Christmas,” we need only drop the last syllable, and it becomes the “Spirit of Christ.” WISE MEN FROM THE EAST,

Remembering Him When we have the spirit of Christmas, we remember Him whose birth we com- memorate at this season of the year. We contemplate that first Christmas day, foretold ILLUSTRATIONS BY DANIEL LEWIS; RIGHT: BY DANIEL LEWIS; RIGHT: ILLUSTRATIONS ADVENTIST CHURCH, MAY NOT BE COPIED; PHOTOGRAPH BY BUSATH PHOTOGRAPHY NOT BE COPIED; PHOTOGRAPH BY BUSATH ADVENTIST CHURCH, MAY by the of old. You, with me, recall

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 5 argaret the words from Isaiah: “Behold, a virgin shall in a tabernacle of clay. . . . He shall suffer and Nellie conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his temptations, and pain. . . . And he shall be Mpulled name Immanuel”4—meaning “God with us.” called Jesus Christ, the Son of God.”5 from under the beds On the American continent, the prophets Then came that night of nights when several boxes filled said: “The time cometh, and is not far distant, the shepherds were abiding in the with hand-me-downs that with power, the Lord Omnipotent . . . fields and the angel of the Lord they had been given shall dwell appeared to them, announcing by their mother’s merchant friends. It was heavenly chaos, with the Kozicki children picking whatever clothes and footwear they wanted.

6 the birth of the Savior. Later, Wise Men journeyed from the sour cream, and dill pickles for barter. They also raised East to Jerusalem, “Saying, Where is he that is born King chickens, pigs, and beef cattle. They had very little cash, of the ? for we have seen his star in the east, and are but these goods could be exchanged for other commodi- come to worship him. . . . ties they could not produce themselves. “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding Margaret’s mother had friends with whom she had emi- great joy. grated from the old country. These friends owned a gen- “And when they were come into the house, they saw eral store, and the store became a depot for folks in the the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and area to donate or trade surplus hand-me-down clothing, worshipped him: and when they had opened their trea- shoes, etc. Many of these used items were passed along to sures, they presented unto him gifts; Margaret’s family. gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.”6 Alberta winters were cold, long, Times change; years speed by; and hard, and one particularly but Christmas continues sacred. In cold and difficult winter, Margaret this marvelous dispensation of the and her sister Nellie noticed the fulness of times, our opportunities to poverty of their neighbors, the give of ourselves are indeed limitless, Kozicki family, whose farm was a but they are also perishable. There few miles away. When the Kozicki are hearts to gladden. There are kind father would take his children to words to say. There are gifts to be school on his homemade sleigh, he given. There are deeds to be done. would always go into the school There are souls to be saved. to warm himself by the potbelly stove before returning home. The A Gift of Christmas family’s footwear consisted of rags In the early 1930s, Margaret and gunny sacks cut into strips and Kisilevich and her sister Nellie gave a Christmas gift to wrapped about the legs and feet, stuffed with straw, and their neighbors, the Kozicki family, which was remem- bound with twine. bered by them all their lives and which has become an Margaret and Nellie decided to invite the Kozicki family, inspiration to their families. by way of the children, for Christmas dinner. They also Home to Margaret back then was Two Hills, Alberta, decided not to tell anyone in their family of the invitation. Canada—a farming community populated largely by Christmas morning dawned, and everyone in Ukrainian and Polish immigrants who generally had large Margaret’s family was busy with the preparations for the families and were very poor. It was the time of the Great midday feast. The huge pork roast had been put in the Depression. oven the night before. The cabbage rolls, doughnuts, Margaret’s family consisted of her mother and father prune buns, and special burnt sugar punch had been and their 15 children. Margaret’s mother was industrious prepared earlier. The menu would be rounded out with and her father was enterprising—and with all those chil- sauerkraut, dill pickles, and vegetables. Margaret and dren, they had a built-in labor force. Consequently, their Nellie were in charge of getting the fresh vegetables

BY ANTONIO CORREGGIO, © SUPERSTOCK, MAY NOT BE COPIED BY ANTONIO CORREGGIO, © SUPERSTOCK, MAY home was always warm, and despite their humble circum- ready, and their mother kept asking them why they were stances, they were never hungry. In the summer they grew peeling so many potatoes, carrots, and beets. But they

THE NATIVITY, an enormous garden, made sauerkraut, cottage cheese, just kept peeling.

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 7 Their father was the first to notice a team of horses and Do we have the determination to do likewise? One line a sleigh packed with 13 people coming down their lane. of holy writ contains a tribute to our Lord and Savior, of He, being a horse lover, could recognize a team from a whom it was said, He “went about doing good . . . ; for long distance. He asked his wife, “Why are the Kozickis God was with him.”8 coming here?” Her response to him was, “I don’t know.” My prayer is that at this Christmas season and all the They arrived, and Margaret’s father helped Mr. Kozicki Christmastimes to come, we may follow in His footsteps. stable the horses. Mrs. Kozicki embraced Margaret’s mother Then each Christmas will be the best Christmas ever. ■ and thanked her for inviting them for Christmas. Then they NOTES all piled into the house, and the festivities began. 1. Al Stillman and Robert Allen, “Home for the Holidays.” 2. Elizabeth Bowen, “Home for Christmas,” in Mary Engelbreit, Believe: The adults ate first, and then the plates and cutlery were A Christmas Treasury (1998), 27. washed, and the children ate in shifts. It was a glorious 3. David O. McKay, Gospel Ideals (1953), 551. 4. Isaiah 7:14; see also Matthew 1:18–25. feast, made better by the sharing of it. After everyone had 5. Mosiah 3:5, 7–8. 6. Matthew 2:2, 10–11. eaten, they sang Christmas carols together, and then the 7. Luke 2:52. adults settled down for another chat. 8. Acts 10:38.

Charity in Action Margaret and Nellie took the children into the bedroom IDEAS FOR HOME TEACHERS and pulled from under the beds several boxes filled with fter prayerfully studying this message, share it using a hand-me-downs they had been given by their mother’s A method that encourages the participation of those you merchant friends. It was heavenly chaos, with an instant teach. Following are some examples: fashion show and everyone picking whatever clothes 1. Ask a family member to read aloud the quote by and footwear they wanted. They made such a racket that President McKay. If we are to have the best Christmas ever, Margaret’s father came in to see what all the noise was we must follow in the Savior’s footsteps. Have the family about. When he saw their happiness and the joy of the members trace their feet. Then invite the family to take some Kozicki children with their “new” clothes, he smiled and time after your visit to prayerfully write an act of service on said, “Carry on.” each footprint that the family members could do for others. Early in the afternoon, before it got too cold and dark Suggest that they place the footprints so they lead to a picture with the setting sun, Margaret’s family bid farewell to their of the Savior, illustrating how acts of service help us come friends, who left well fed, well clothed, and well shod. closer to Him. Margaret and Nellie never told anyone about their 2. Invite family members to share a few memorable invitation to the Kozickis, and the secret remained until Christmas experiences. What made these experiences great? Margaret Kisilevich Wright’s 77th Christmas, in 1998, when Read or tell the experience of the Kozicki family. Invite the she shared it with her family for the first time. She said it family to find ways this month to serve others, helping them was her very best Christmas ever. enjoy the Christmas season. If we are to have the very best Christmas ever, we must listen for the sound of sandaled feet. We must reach out for the Carpenter’s hand. With every step we take in His footsteps, we abandon a doubt and gain a truth. It was said of Jesus of Nazareth that He “increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”7

8 How Could I Help? I wanted to do something to help a family It was the missionaries asking if I could drive a woman and in need, but what? her three small children home because their car had broken BY APRIL A. LOVE down. I agreed and quickly drove to pick up the stranded woman and children. hat Christmas season started out like any other, that I picked up the family and began the 40-mile (64-km) is, until I decided to focus on following the Savior’s drive that would take us to their home, which the woman Texample of loving and serving others. said was near a lake. During the drive I became acquainted I wanted to serve Him whose birth we were celebrating, with the young woman and could tell that she cared deeply and I wanted to find a way for my children to do the same. for her husband and children. As we got closer to the lake, So I prayed daily throughout December, seeking guidance I couldn’t see any homes nearby and was shocked when about how to do this. I felt that by helping others I was being she directed me to a small tent. an instrument in His hands and that I was doing His work. “Here it is,” she said with a smile. “There’s our home.” I found many ways to serve others and felt the Christmas About that time her husband appeared through the tent spirit stronger in my life. Soon I began to wonder if I was flaps, and I soon learned that he had lost his job months giving to Him or if He was giving to me. One such experi- before and was trying—unsuccessfully—to find another ence brought our family closer to the Savior as we helped one. Being unable to pay rent, they had moved out of their a family in need. apartment and were using a small tent as a temporary home. I worked at a service project hosted by the sister - Whenever the husband could find a ride to town, he aries in our area. After the project was completed, I asked looked for employment and worked at temporary jobs to the missionaries to contact me if they or anyone they knew provide for his family’s needs. Once a week his wife trav- needed assistance. eled into town to buy groceries, all the while praying that

ILLUSTRATIONS BY DAN BURR ILLUSTRATIONS Only a few hours after I returned home, the phone rang. their car would continue to run.

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 9 Their plan had worked for a few months, but it was now cold and keep- ing warm was diffi cult. Before long their money would be gone, and they would not be able to afford food or transportation. Yet they seemed full of faith and were surprisingly optimistic. The woman simply said that they knew everything would be all right. They had prayed and knew God would watch over them. They thanked me warmly for giving them a ride home, and though I felt uncomfort- able leaving them out there in that condition, they assured me that they would be fi ne. All the way home I couldn’t stop thinking about them and knew I had to do something more for them. But what? I wished my family had money to fi x their car, to buy them food, or to pay for their apartment until the husband could fi nd work—but we didn’t. I began to pray for direction about how to help this family. The family was grateful for the warm clothes, blankets, By the time I arrived home, I had a and food provided through the of our ward, plan. The next day in Relief Society I but they were even more grateful to Heavenly Father. told the sisters about the family living

10 in a tent, and I asked if they would help gather supplies for myself that I had felt prompted to bring everything. them. It wasn’t long before warm clothes, blankets, and food When we arrived, we were surprised to see the fam- began arriving at our door. A few days before Christmas, my ily packing their belongings into their car. The husband husband and I took the items out to the family by the lake. explained that he had found a job and that his boss had They were appreciative to us and the Relief Society sisters, provided an apartment for them and was even paying but they were especially grateful to Heavenly Father. I still the fi rst month’s rent. They were to move in that day. was uncomfortable leaving them but felt it might be unwise “Put everything in our van!” we told them. “We’ll take to invite them into our home. you. You can make it all in one trip that way.” As Christmas drew near, my heart ached for this fam- Excitement fi lled the air as we loaded their belongings ily. I wanted them to have a traditional Christmas in a into our van and took them to their new home. While we home, with a tree, and with the security of a stable job. moved the family into their new apartment, I realized that I continued praying, “What would Thou have us do?” Heavenly Father had answered both their prayers and mine. But it seemed that no answer came. He blessed this family with a warm home, a stable job, a On Christmas Eve I decided to cook the turkey and traditional Christmas dinner, and even with a Christmas side dishes ahead of time for the next day. Throughout tree, which their new neighbors brought over. Before we the day more goods arrived for the destitute family, so left, we embraced this family and the young mother said, my husband and I decided to take the food and gifts out “We knew God would answer our prayers. We all knew it.” to them that evening. I felt glad that they would have a Driving home that night, I recognized that my children semblance of Christmas with a turkey dinner and presents had caught the true spirit of Christmas. They seemed more for the children. But then I realized that the family would excited about giving than they had ever been about receiv- have no way to cook the dinner and that they wouldn’t ing. “Did you see the look on Jimmy’s face when I gave him even have room for all the gifts in their small, already my train?” one child asked. “And on Annie’s face when I overcrowded tent. Shortly thereafter, I felt prompted to gave her my doll?” another remarked. deliver it all anyway—and to take them our own turkey When we arrived home, we found a large box on our dinner, since it was already cooked. doorstep. Inside it was a beautiful turkey dinner with all Our family loaded everything into our van and headed the trimmings. We will never know who provided that for the lake. Our children had each chosen one of their own thoughtful gift on Christmas Eve—we hadn’t told anyone gifts to give to the other children. We were all excited to we had given away our own Christmas dinner. But what see how they would respond when they saw their presents. we will always know is that our awkward attempt at a gift Despite our growing anticipation, I worried that these gifts for the Savior had turned into a most precious gift for our would not be useful for this family. However, I reminded family—a Christmas experience we would never forget. ■

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 11

Room in the Inn BY ELDER NEIL L. ANDERSEN Of the Presidency of the Seventy

n a bright, crisp winter afternoon we Christmas spirit, and Christmas carols and pointed our van toward the mission favorite stories made the travel time pass Ohome in Bordeaux, France. It was quickly. Kristen and Derek were becoming December 24, 1990, and we were on our way more excited with each hour as they antici- home for Christmas. pated the surprises Christmas morning would My wife, Kathy, and I, along with our four bring. We could almost smell the turkey At a time when only children—Camey, age 14, Brandt, 13, Kristen, dinner being prepared at the mission home our Heavenly Father 10, and Derek, 8—had just experienced a by a wonderful missionary couple awaiting could bring us home, week to remember. Because of the distances our return. The feeling of Christmas was in He had heard our involved in our mission, we had not brought the air. prayers. the missionaries together for a Christmas cel- It was not until late in the afternoon that ebration. Rather, we had traveled as a family we realized there might be a problem. For to every city in the mission, bringing a feeling much of the morning we had experienced of family togetherness, involving the children some difficulty in shifting our van from one in sharing a special Christmas program. Our gear to another. We had stopped to check family had rejoiced with each of the mis- the level of the transmission fluid, but all sionaries in the great privilege of sharing the seemed to be in order. Now, with darkness restored gospel of Christ at this glorious time setting in and our van still two hours of year. from Bordeaux, third, fourth, and fifth On our final day we had been joined by gears stopped functioning altogether. four wonderful missionaries. The large blue We limped along the tree-lined

ILLUSTRATIONS BY RICHARD BIRD ILLUSTRATIONS van, now full, was filled as well with the country road in second gear. It would

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 13 be impossible to drive to Bordeaux in this condition, and and we determined that this was our last chance for help. we looked for possible help. Our first hope was a conve- To avoid overwhelming those in the inn, Kathy, Camey, nience store just preparing to close. I asked about pos- and the missionaries stayed in the van while I took the sible rental-car locations or train stations nearby. We were three younger children inside. I explained our situation far from any city of any size, however, and my questions to the young woman at the front desk. She could see the brought little response. beleaguered faces of my children, and she kindly asked I returned to the van. The concern and disappoint- us to wait while she called the innkeeper, Mr. Francis ment showed on the faces of our younger children. Would Darroze. they not be home for Christmas Eve? Would they spend Camey came in to see how we were doing. As we this most special night of the year in a crowded mission waited for Mr. Darroze to arrive, I silently said a prayer of van? After they had brought happiness and cheer thanksgiving. We might not make it back to Bordeaux to missionaries far from home, would their for the night, but how good of our Father in Christmas come alongside a forgotten Heaven to lead us to a nice hotel! I shud- French country road far from their own dered as I realized how easily we could home? have spent the night in the van in a Kristen knew to whom we could remote area of France. I could see a appeal, and she immediately sug- restaurant in the next room, and I was gested a prayer. Many times as a family we amazed to see it open on Christmas Eve. had prayed for those in need—for the mission- We would have a good meal, a hot shower, aries, the investigators, the Church members, our and a comfortable sleep. leaders, the French people, our own family. We bowed in Mr. Darroze arrived in the clothing of a traditional prayer and humbly asked for help. French chef, with his double-breasted chef’s coat buttoned By now it was dark. The van crept forward, moving at all the way up to his chin. He was the owner of the hotel, a jogger’s pace through the pine forest. We were hoping a man of importance in the community. His warm eyes to reach a little town just three miles (5 km) ahead. Soon and quick smile communicated that he was a gentleman our lights caught a small sign with an arrow directing us to as well. Villeneuve-de-Marsan. I told him of our dilemma, of the 10 of us in the van, We had driven the two-lane road from Pau to Bordeaux and of our destination in Bordeaux. As he noticed my many times, but never had we journeyed off the highway accent, I added that we were Americans and in one sen- to the little town of Villeneuve-de-Marsan. As we hobbled tence told him why we were in France. into the town, the scene was like many small French He instantly sought to help us. About 10 miles (16 km) villages. Homes and small shops were attached one to away was a medium-sized city with an active train sched- another, crowding the narrow road leading into town. ule. He called to ask about the next train to Bordeaux People had closed their window shutters early, and the but found that it would not leave until 10:15 Christmas streets were dark and deserted. The lights in the ancient morning. All rental-car companies in that larger city were in the center of town showed the one sign closed. of life as they glowed in preparation for the traditional The disappointment was evident in the faces of my midnight mass. We rolled past the church, and the van young children. I asked Mr. Darroze if he would have hesitated and then stopped. Fortunately, we found our- room in the inn for our family and the four missionaries selves in front of a lovely country inn. The lights were on, to spend the night. Although we wouldn’t make it home,

14 r. Darroze quickly Mshook his head and his finger in disapproval. The spirit of Christmas giving filled his soul. “No,” he said, “I will take nothing.”

at least it was a great blessing to have found such suitable am not certain the heater works well. But if you want it, I accommodations. will drive you the 10 miles to my farm to get it.” Mr. Darroze looked at the children. He had known us The children jumped for joy. I reached into my pocket only a few minutes, but his heart was touched with the for my cash or credit cards. He quickly shook his head and brotherhood that crosses all oceans and makes us one his finger in disapproval. family. The spirit of Christmas giving filled his soul. “Mr. “No,” he said, “I will take nothing. You can bring my Andersen,” he said, “of course I have rooms here that you van back to me when you get time after Christmas. It is can rent. But you do not want to spend Christmas Eve Christmas Eve. Take your family home.” here in the inn. Children should be home as they await the Sometime shortly after midnight the lights of Bordeaux excitement of Christmas morning. I will lend you my car, came into view. The children and the missionaries had and you can go to Bordeaux tonight.” fallen asleep in the back of the innkeeper’s van. As we I was amazed at his thoughtfulness. Most people would drove the familiar streets leading to our home, Kathy and I view strangers, especially foreigners like us, with caution. thanked our kind Heavenly Father for our own Christmas I thanked him but explained that there were 10 of us and miracle. At a time when only He could bring us home, He a small French car would never be sufficient. had heard our prayers. He hesitated momentarily, but his hesitation was not to We were home on Christmas Eve, even though in diminish the gift but to expand it. Villeneuve-de-Marsan there was room in the inn. ◼ “At my farm about 10 miles from here I have an old van.

It is used for farming and has only the two seats in front. It “Room in the Inn” was originally printed in Christmas Treasures will travel at only about 45 miles per hour (70 kph), and I (Deseret Book, 1994).

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 15 Christmas 3Stories COOKIES AND CAROLS

By Bethany F. Bingham leader informed her that we were from the church across The more we caroled and shared baskets the street and wanted to express our appreciation to them of cookies, the more excited we became. for being good neighbors. She was pleasantly surprised and listened politely until the end of our . rmed with 10 plates of cookies With the first home behind us, our and 10 copies of a Church THEY CAME WITH HASTE confidence grew. We walked a little more A Christmas DVD, our youth “Did these shep- quickly to the small apartment complex group set out on a snowy Mutual night herds, personally next to the church. This time the woman to sing Christmas carols to the neighbors. invited to under- who answered the door recognized two It was the bishop’s idea, a chance for take a search for of our youth. She had been their teacher leaders and youth alike to meet the the babe wrapped in elementary school, and she reached people who live near our Church build- in swaddling out to give them a big hug. ing in Connecticut. clothes and lying This positive encouragement was all The house across the street had a huge, in a manger, concern themselves we needed. From then on, Kourtney, one barking dog, and the only way to get to with the security of their possessions? of our Mia Maids, wanted to deliver the the front door was by passing him. No Did they procrastinate their search cookies and DVD at every door. As lead- one appeared to quiet the dog, and I for Christ? The record affirms that ers, we no longer had to physically move wondered how we would be received. the shepherds said to one another, the youth closer to each doorstep—they As we sang our first carol, the youth “Let us now go even unto Bethlehem. encouraged each other. stood back, hesitant to be on the front . . . And they came with haste” Although one man listened uncom- line. A woman answered the door, and (Luke 2:15–16; emphasis added). fortably to our song and declined our one of my fellow leaders handed her President Thomas S. Monson, “In Search of gift, every other person who answered the Christmas Spirit,” Ensign, Dec. 1987, 5. a plate of cookies and the DVD. The a door was gracious and appreciative. PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOHN LUKE BY DIXON LEAVITT; ILLUSTRATIONS One woman had tears in her eyes guess this means I’d better and gave Kourtney a kiss as she come to church on Sunday.” delivered the goodies and DVD. As we walked away from his But the most amazing of all was door, I recognized the Lord’s door 19. hand in our service and knew A man came to the door and that this man had never been stepped outside to listen to our lost to the Lord. carol. When we finished, he By this time we were hav- asked if we had heard of Fayette, ing so much fun we didn’t New York. We excitedly said we want to stop. So despite being had, and he responded with, empty-handed, we caroled at “I was baptized in Fayette.” He one last house. The Spirit of went on to tell us that he had the Lord filled us with joy as been baptized about 10 years we then trekked, arm in arm, before but that since moving to back to the church. We all Connecticut, he hadn’t sought out felt grateful for this chance to the Church and no one in our area spread the Lord’s love—and knew about him. He said, “Well, I His joy—to the world.

A SMALL, SNOW-COVERED TREE

By Darrell Smart When I hinted to my mother-in-law that I knew her When we arrived at the cemetery, secret, she denied responsibility. The following year while we were touched by what we found. she and my father-in-law were serving a Church mission ne day, shortly before Christmas, our third child abroad, we again found that someone had placed a gift and first son, Bay, was born. As I said good-bye that on our son’s grave. Even after inquiring with other family Oevening to my exhausted but joyful wife and left the members and friends, we were unable to solve the mystery. hospital, the warmth and joy that accompanied the birth of my Ten years after our son’s death, a series of snowstorms son overwhelmed the cold chill of that clear December night. prevented us from traveling short distances. As a result, The following December we celebrated the first birthday our annual visit to our son’s grave site was delayed until of our dark-eyed, dark-haired son. The day after Christmas, several days after Christmas. When we finally made it, during an evening of games at the home of my in-laws, we saw a small, decorated Christmas tree, mostly buried our revelry was interrupted by an awful shriek from my in the snow, standing bravely at the head of Bay’s small mother-in-law: “He’s not breathing!” She had gone to check grave. The effort it must have taken for someone to get to on Bay, who had been sleeping on her bed, and discovered the cemetery through the heavy snowfall overwhelmed us. his cold, lifeless body. We immediately rushed our son to Tears streamed down our faces as we realized that some- the hospital, attempting CPR on the way. We were grief- one still shared our grief and loss. stricken to learn that nothing could be done to save his life. After that, we were more resolved than ever to discover He had died from sudden infant death syndrome. the identity of our benefactor and thank him or her for Since then, Christmas has been filled with a much showing us such compassion. But as we reflected more, deeper meaning for our family. Each year on Christmas we realized that whoever was doing these acts of kind- Eve when we take down our other children’s stockings ness did not want to be identified. We decided to allow to fill them, one solitary stocking is left on the fireplace our friend to remain anonymous. We replaced our need mantle. Throughout the remainder of the holiday the to thank our friend with a desire to simply live better. stocking serves as a reminder of Bay. It is now harder for us to speak ill of or criticize any of Each year, around the time of Bay’s birthday, my wife our friends or family members, because any one of them and I drive to the cemetery where he is buried. At each may be our anonymous friend. visit we find that someone else has arrived before us and Often while doing service, my wife and I pause to exam- placed something on our son’s grave: one year it was deli- ine our hearts: are we doing good things to be seen by oth- cate, small flowers; the next year, a stuffed bear; the next, ers or for the pure love of Christ and of our fellowmen? a little Christmas tree decorated with miniature ornaments. For us, charity—humble and never seeking its own—is We have no idea who is responsible; the gifts, which touch symbolized by a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, half- us deeply, are never accompanied by a note or card. buried in snow, resting in a quiet cemetery. IN SHEPHERDS’ FIELD

By Annie Tintle secondhand clothing, their As I thought about the eyes were bright. Open- place where the Savior palmed, they approached was born, I began to our group’s chaperone. understand His role After asking the children as the Shepherd of their names, she gave each mankind. one a few shekels. One of hile attending the children carried a new- Brigham Young born lamb. He approached WUniversity, I me and offered to let me studied in Jerusalem with hold it. approximately 170 students As I took the warm baby during the fall of 1998. As the lamb in my arms, I began to Christmas season approached, see the situation differently. we began to focus our stud- The Savior knew about ies and field trips around the the life of a shepherd. He birth of the Savior. knew about the cold nights, It was cool and windy rocky trails, and danger of the evening that 40 of us thieves and predators. He pulled up to our last and most anticipated stop for the day. knew shepherds sometimes held the baby lambs in their Tradition held that Shepherds’ Field, located just outside arms, standing watch while waiting for the darkness to pass. of Bethlehem, was the place where the ancient shepherds While the Wise Men were able to bring the Christ child sat watching sheep on the night of the Savior’s birth, never gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, the shepherds could anticipating what would soon be proclaimed to them. offer little in the way of material gifts. Their sacrifice was The field was nothing like I had imagined. I saw a ter- simply in coming to offer humble hearts and joyful spirits raced hill with hardly any greenery. We walked down a in partaking in the celebration of their infant Lord. rocky path, and each of us found a quiet place to sit and The Savior has brought the gift of joy to our cold and write in our journals. I finally found a large rock to sit on. dreary world. He has promised to stand watch through the It was cold, uncomfortable, and surrounded by thorns. long, dark night, despite the terrors and hardships this life When we were told we would be able to see the local can bring. He knows us, His sheep. He is our Shepherd. shepherds and their sheep, I wasn’t prepared to see chil- That night, for the first time, I began to understand the dren in rags. But even though they were dressed in worn, promise in the gift of our Savior. ◼

Gather to the TEMPLE

BY ELDER CLAUDIO R. M. COSTA Of the Presidency of the Seventy hen Benedito Carlos do Carmo testimony of the ordinances of the temple,” Mendes Martins decided to take he said, “especially the ordinance of being his family to the nearest temple sealed to my wife and three children.” W For many Latter-day in 1992, he needed 15 days off work to make Before Manaus became part of the Saints throughout the arduous round-trip from his home in District in 2005, the world, attending Manaus, in northern Brazil. It was a busy the nearest temple was the São Paulo Brazil the temple requires time for his company, however, and his boss Temple, located thousands of miles away in great sacrifice. When refused to give him time off. southeastern Brazil. Some Latter-day Saints Saints from Manaus, Because the family had prepared, sacri- in Manaus were so determined to go to the Brazil, made their ficed, and saved money to make the trip, they temple that they sold their homes, means first trip to the prayed that they might somehow still be able of transportation, work tools—anything of temple in Caracas, to go. Their prayers were soon answered. value—to raise money. they were so happy “The day before the trip, I was diagnosed To reach São Paulo, members would they declared, “Now with parasites,” Brother Martins said. “I was travel by boat on the Rio Negro to its nearby it takes us only 40 so happy to be sick!” confluence with the Amazon and from there hours to get to the His doctor immediately prescribed east to the Rio Madeira—a distance of about temple!” medication and a two-week medical leave of 70 miles (115 km). Then they would travel absence from work, which, by law, his com- more than 600 miles (965 km) southeast on pany was obligated to give. The next day the the Rio Madeira to the city of Pôrto Velho. family left for the temple. From there they would board buses and trek “I took my medicine with me, and during another 1,500 miles (2,400 km) to São Paulo. the trip I received injections,” Brother Martins After serving in the house of the Lord, they said. By the time he returned, the parasites would make the seven-day return trip. were gone. When Saints from Manaus prepared

ILLUSTRATION BY STEVE KROPP ILLUSTRATION “I came home with faith in and a to make their first trip to the temple in

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 21 Caracas, they were so happy they will be numbered among His people declared, “Now it takes us only in the latter days (see 3 Nephi 16:13). 40 hours to get to the temple!” To Today there are eight stakes in get to Caracas, the Saints had to the city of Manaus, in Amazonas endure a 1,000-mile (1,600-km) bus State, additional stakes in the other ride that included traveling through states, and seven districts within unsettled parts of the Amazon jun- the mission boundaries. As I con- gle and changing from a larger bus template the growth of the Church to a smaller bus at Brazil’s border with and the role that temples play in the Venezuela. The distance was shorter, Lord’s efforts to gather His children, but the trip still required substantial my mind is drawn to His promise in monetary sacrifice, with the added the Book of Mormon: “Yea, and then

expense of obtaining passports. Architectural rendering shall the work commence, with the As the Saints embarked, they sang, of the temple to be built in Father among all nations in prepar- 1 “Rise, Ye Saints, and Temples Enter.” Manaus, Brazil. ing the way whereby his people may To maintain reverence and stay be gathered home to the land of their focused on the purpose of their trip, inheritance” (3 Nephi 21:28). they held firesides on the bus and As a mission president in Manaus watched Church movies such as The from 1990 to 1993, I saw many of the Mountain of the Lord. Amazon people embrace the principles of the restored In a journal compiled by those who were part of that gospel of Jesus Christ, join the Church, and “come in unto first trip, Church members recalled their blessings, not the covenant” (3 Nephi 21:22). As a result, the power of the their sacrifices. One sister wrote: “Today I am going to the priesthood began to bless their lives and their families— temple for the first time. Yesterday I celebrated my 20th especially through the ordinances of the temple. anniversary as a member of the Church—so many hours, Church members in northern Brazil rejoiced in May days, and years of waiting and preparing. My heart is full 2007 when the First Presidency announced that a temple, of gratitude and happiness for my friends, priesthood lead- Brazil’s sixth, would be built in Manaus. For the Martins ers, and especially Jesus Christ, His Atonement, and this family and the growing number of Latter-day Saints in opportunity to go to the house of my Heavenly Father.” northern Brazil, having a temple in Manaus will be a great A brother who was sealed to his wife and children on blessing. For many Saints throughout the world, how- that trip said the temple gave him a glimpse of eternity. “I ever, attending the temple will continue to require great have no doubt that if we keep the covenants we make in sacrifice. the temple, we will have a happier and more abundant May those of us who live near a temple show our grati- life,” he wrote. “I love my family, and I will do all I can to tude by increasing our temple attendance. And may we, have them with me in the celestial kingdom.” like the Saints in northern Brazil, emulate the example of The Brazil Manaus Mission was created on July 1, 1990, the Nephites who “did labor exceedingly” to gather to the to take the gospel to six states in northern Brazil. At the temple “that they might be . . . where Jesus should show time, the Church was relatively unknown in those states himself unto the multitude” (3 Nephi 19:3). ■ and had few members. But as the Lord declared in the NOTE

Book of Mormon, those who repent and come unto Him 1. Hymns, no. 287. RENDERING OF MANAUS BRAZIL TEMPLE BY CRAIG LOFGREEN

22 Temple Blessings IN A Part-Member Family

BY KAY PRZYBILLE My temple attendance gave me insights that improved my relationships with my husband, who was not a Latter-day Saint, and our children.

n June of 1986 I drove my mother to the so Ishe could receive her . I had already received my endow- ment, but my nonmember husband and I lived in a remote part of British Columbia, and I had allowed my rec-

PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY CRAIG DIMOND; PHOTOGRAPH OF CARDSTON ALBERTA TEMPLE BY JED A. CLARK BY CRAIG DIMOND; PHOTOGRAPH OF CARDSTON ALBERTA PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS ommend to expire. Therefore, I was able to walk with my mother to the recommend desk but could follow her no farther. I went outside, leaned against the temple wall, and cried. After that experience, I determined Despite my resolution, I struggled When meditating on the experi- never to be left outside of the temple with accepting his choices and some- ence later, I realized that Heavenly again. My husband supported me in times allowed his habits to affect my Father loved them even more than my decision, and I was soon attend- happiness. In the temple I learned I did because He understood them ing the temple as frequently as I that together we had the potential better. He wants to bless them and could. There I learned principles that to be perfect eternal companions. have them return to Him, and He will made a profound difference in my From my new observation point, I provide them with learning oppor- personal life and in relationships with saw that when we worked together, tunities. Now when I begin to worry, family and friends. we were whole. Our weaknesses I remember that experience and do and strengths, interests and talents what I can, knowing the Lord will do Changes in My Life complemented each other’s so well the rest. First, I noticed a change in my that we were stronger as a team than A fourth alteration in my life patience level. I had spent years try- we were as individuals. came as a sense of general peace ing to keep my temper under control As I learned to accept my husband’s settled over me, resulting in part without much success. As my temple differences, I became less critical and from my temple attendance giving worship taught me about my relation- adopted a spirit of co operation and me a better eternal perspective. ship to my Heavenly Father and to teamwork in our marriage. I found I I am confident that the Lord is other people, my attitude changed. was growing more quickly into the in charge, that there are enough I came to realize that my family and person I wanted to be. Moreover, when resources on this earth for us to friends were people I knew before I my husband felt more cooperation live comfortably, that there will be came here. They were not in my life from me, he was more loving toward oases of virtue within the desert of to thwart or annoy me but to work me as well. evil. I no longer think of myself as with me so I could learn life lessons. The third area of improvement was being alone. The Holy Ghost is my I gained understanding as I tried to finding faith that I could allow our companion, and I can talk to my learn what they were trying to teach four children, who are now grown, Heavenly Father in prayer through- me, and I gained patience to accept to live their lives without my feel- out my day. I used to agonize over that they progressed at their own ing responsible to make them live a decisions; now I seek the Spirit’s speed. I also realized that life was not certain way. Some of them were less promptings and act on them as I a struggle to teach others to be per- active in the Church, but I still wanted make choices. And since I no longer fect so that I could be happy; it is a to influence them for good without feel the need to require others to happy journey toward perfection with infringing on their agency. On one live the way I think they should, people I love. particular visit to the temple, I put I have more time and energy to The second change was in my atti- their names on the prayer roll and “work out [my] own salvation” tude toward my husband. Before our prayed long and sincerely in their (Mormon 9:27). marriage, I had determined to place behalf. I received a profoundly peace- This new perspective lifted a great him as the head of the family and not ful assurance that all would be well weight off my shoulders. The Lord to walk away from our relationship. with them. meant it when He said:

24 n the temple, I learned that my Ihusband and I had the potential to be perfect eternal companions. From this new observation point, I saw that we were stronger as a team than we were “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of Н *O/PWFNCFSPVSTFDPOEEBVHIUFS as individuals. me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye married in the temple, and I was able to shall find rest unto your souls. attend the sealing. “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is Н *O.BZ BGUFSZFBSTPGNBSSJBHF  light” (Matthew 11:29–30). my husband joined the Church. In August IFBOE*XFSFTFBMFE BOEPVSTFDPOE Family Blessings daughter was sealed to us. Our oldest Continued temple attendance would daughter, who was sealed to her husband be essential for me if the only blessings I BOEEBVHIUFSJO/PWFNCFS XBT received were the personal ones of peace, sealed to us in August 2008. assurance, and patience. But there have been I am forever grateful to a mother who led other experiences—many others—that have the way by being baptized when I was seven blessed me and my family. and who later inspired me to get my temple Н *IBWFCFDPNFJOWPMWFEJOGBNJMZIJTUPSZ recommend again. Following her example and have had many wonderful experi- has brought numerous personal blessings, ences involving family members, both and those blessings have extended to other mortal and those beyond the veil. members of my family. ◼

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 25 Consecrate Thy Performance

BY ELDER NEAL A. MAXWELL (1926–2004) Many ignore consecration because it Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles seems too abstract or too daunting. The con-

Neal A. Maxwell served for two years as an Assistant scientious among us, however, experience BY HEINRICH to the Twelve and for five years in the Presidency of the Seventy before being sustained as a member of the divine discontent because of progression Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on October 3, 1981. mixed with procrastination. Hence, loving He died on July 21, 2004, in Salt Lake City after an eight-year battle with leukemia. Elder Maxwell counsel is given with the confirmation of this delivered this timeless sermon on consecration direction, encouragement to continue the during general conference in April 2002. journey, and consolation as we experience CHRIST AND THE RICH YOUNG RULER,

hese remarks are addressed to the individually the inherent degrees of difficulty. OF C. HARRISON CONROY CO. HOFMANN, COURTESY imperfect but still striving in the DETAIL FROM DETAIL In pondering and Thousehold of faith. As always, my Be Fully Submissive pursuing consecra- immediate audience is myself. Spiritual submissiveness is not accom- tion, understandably We tend to think of consecration only plished in an instant, but by the incremental we tremble inwardly as yielding up, when divinely directed, our improvements and by the successive at what may be material possessions. But ultimate consecra- use of stepping-stones. Stepping- required. Yet the Lord tion is the yielding up of oneself to God. stones are meant to be taken one at has said consolingly, Heart, soul, and mind were the encompass- a time anyway. Eventually our “My grace is suffi- ing words of Christ in describing the first wills can be “swallowed up cient for you.” commandment, which is constantly, not in the will of the Father” periodically, operative (see Matthew 22:37). as we are “willing If kept, then our performances will, in turn, to submit be fully consecrated for the lasting welfare of our souls (see 2 Nephi 32:9). Such totality involves the submissive converging of feelings, thoughts, words, and deeds, the very opposite of estrangement: “For how knoweth a man the master whom he has not served, and who is a stranger unto him, and is far from the thoughts and intents of his heart?” (Mosiah 5:13).

26

reathtaking . . . even as a child doth submit to his father” Granted, partial surrender is still commend- submis- ( Mosiah 15:7; 3:19 ). Otherwise, though striv- able, but it resembles, more than faintly, the Bsiveness ing, we will continue to feel the world’s prop excuse, “I gave at the offi ce” (see James 1:7–8). was achieved by wash and be partially diverted. We may, for instance, have a specifi c set the Savior as He Illustrations involving economic consecra- of skills which we mistakenly come to think faced the anguish tion are relevant. When Ananias and Sapphira we somehow own. If we continue to cling to and agonies of the sold their possessions, they “kept back part those more than to God, we are fl inching in Atonement and of the price” (see Acts 5:1–11). So many of us the face of the consecrating fi rst command- “would that [He] cling tenaciously to a particular “part,” even ment. Since God lends us “breath . . . from might not drink treating our obsessions like possessions. Thus, one moment to another,” hyperventilating the bitter cup, and whatever else we may have over these distractions is not recommended! shrink.” already given, the ( Mosiah 2:21). last portion is the A stumbling block appears when we serve hardest to yield. God generously with time and checkbooks but still withhold portions of our inner selves, signifying that we are not yet fully His! Some have diffi culty when particular tasks enter their sunset phase. John the Baptist is a model, however, saying of Jesus’s growing fl ock, “He must increase, but I must decrease” ( John 3:30 ). Mistakenly regarding our present assign- ments as the only indicator of how much God loves us only adds to our reluctance to let go. Brothers and sisters, our individual worth is already divinely established as “great”; it does not fl uctuate like the stock market. Other stepping-stones remain unused because, like the rich, righteous young man, we are not yet willing to confront what we yet lack (see Mark 10:21). A residue of selfi shness is thereby exposed. Shrinking occurs in so many ways. The terrestrial kingdom, for example, will include the “honorable,” clearly not bearers of false BY HARRY ANDERSON, © SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH, MAY NOT BE COPIED ADVENTIST CHURCH, MAY ANDERSON, © SEVENTH-DAY BY HARRY witness. Yet they were still “not valiant in the testimony of Jesus” (D&C 76:75, 79). The best way to valiantly testify of Jesus is to become steadily more like Him, and it is that consecra- tion that carves out the emulative character

(see 3 Nephi 27:27). NOT MY WILL, BUT THINE, BE DONE, Do Not Put Other Gods before God On the two great commandments, Jesus declared In meeting these recited challenges, spiritual submis- emphatically, everything else hangs, not vice versa (see siveness is fortunately and helpfully adroit—sometimes Matthew 22:40). The fi rst commandment is not suspended helping us to “let go” of things, even mortal life, other just because of our vigorous pursuit of a lesser good, for times to “hold fast,” and still other times to use the next we do not worship a lesser god. stepping-stone (see 1 Nephi 8:30). But if we lack proportion, the next few yards can seem Acknowledge God’s Hand so formidable. Though aware of how God blessed ancient Before enjoying the harvests of righteous efforts, let Israel to escape from mighty Pharaoh and his hosts, myo- us therefore fi rst acknowledge God’s hand. Otherwise, pic Laman and Lemuel still lacked faith in God to help the rationalizations appear, and they include, “My power them with a mere local Laban. and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth” We can also be defl ected if we are too anxious to please (Deuteronomy 8:17). Or, we “vaunt” ourselves, as ancient those who are ascendant in our professional and avoca- Israel would have done (except for Gideon’s deliberately tional niches. Pleasing “other gods” instead of the real God small army), by boasting that “mine own hand hath saved still violates the fi rst commandment (Exodus 20:3). me” (Judges 7:2). Touting our own “hand” makes it doubly We sometimes even defend our idiosyncrasies, as if hard to confess God’s hand in all things (see Alma 14:11; these protrusions somehow constituted our individuality. D&C 59:21). In a way, discipleship is a “contact sport,” as the Prophet At a place called Meribah, one of the greatest ever, Moses, Joseph testifi ed: was fatigued by people clamoring for water. Momentarily, “I am like a huge, rough stone . . . and the only polish- Moses “spake unadvisedly,” saying, “Must we fetch you ing I get is when some corner gets rubbed off by coming water?” (Psalm 106:33; Numbers 20:10; see also Deuteronomy in contact with something else, striking with accelerated 4:21). The Lord mentored remarkable Moses through the force. . . . Thus I will become a smooth and polished shaft pronoun problem and further magnifi ed him. We would do in the quiver of the Almighty.” 1 well to be as meek as Moses (see Numbers 12:3). Since knees often bend long before minds, holding Jesus never, never, never lost His focus! Though He back this “part” deprives God’s work of some of mankind’s went about doing so very much good, He always knew very best intellects. Far better to be meek like Moses, who that the Atonement awaited, pleading with perspective, learned things he “never had supposed” (Moses 1:10). Yet, “Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came sadly, brothers and sisters, in the subtle interplay of agency I unto this hour” (John 12:27; see also 5:30; 6:38). and identity, there is so much hesitation. The surrender of As you and I develop additional love, patience, and the mind is actually a victory, because it then introduces us meekness, the more we have to give God and humanity. to God’s stretching and “higher” ways! (Isaiah 55:9). Moreover, no one else is placed exactly as we are in our Ironically, inordinate attention, even to good things, can opportune human orbits. diminish our devotion to God. For instance, one can be too Granted, the stepping-stones take us into new territory caught up in sports and the forms of body worship we see which we may be very reluctant to explore. Hence, the among us. One can reverence nature and yet neglect nature’s successful users of the stepping-stones are powerful moti- God. One can have an exclusionary regard for good music vators for the rest of us. We usually pay more attention and similarly with a worthy profession. In such circum- to those we quietly admire. The hungry prodigal son stances, the “weightier matters” are often omitted ( Matthew remembered the menus in his home, but he was also 23:23 ; see also 1 Corinthians 2:16). Only the Highest One can drawn by other memories, declaring, “I will arise and go fully guide us as to the highest good which you and I can do. to my father” (Luke 15:18).

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 29 Consecration Returns to God What Is His the loaves and fishes fed a hungry multitude. Even so, recipi- In striving for ultimate submission, our wills constitute all ents were soon hungry again, while those who partake of we really have to give God anyway. The usual gifts and their the Bread of Life will never hunger again (see John 6:51, 58). derivatives we give to Him could be stamped justifiably In pondering and pursuing consecration, understand- “Return to Sender,” with a capital S. Even when ably we tremble inwardly at what may be God receives this one gift in return, the fully he multiplying required. Yet the Lord has said consolingly, faithful will receive “all that [He] hath” (D&C of the loaves “My grace is sufficient for you” (D&C 17:8). 84:38). What an exchange rate! Tand fishes fed Do we really believe Him? He has also Meanwhile, certain realities remain: God a hungry multitude. promised to make weak things strong (see has given us our lives, our agency, our talents, Even so, recipients Ether 12:27). Are we really willing to submit and our opportunities; He has given us our were soon hungry to that process? Yet if we desire fulness, we possessions; He has given us our appointed again, while those cannot hold back part! mortal spans complete with the needed who partake of the Having our wills increasingly swallowed breaths (see D&C 64:32). Guided by such Bread of Life will up by the will of the Father actually means perspective, we will avoid serious errors of never hunger again. an enhanced individuality, stretched and proportion. Some of these are far less amusing more capable of receiving “all that [God] than would be hearing a double quartet and hath” (D&C 84:38). Besides, how could we mistaking it for the Tabernacle Choir! be entrusted with His “all” until our wills are No wonder President [Gordon B.] Hinckley much more like His? Nor could His “all” be . . . stressed our being a covenant people, fully appreciated by the partially committed. emphasizing the covenants of the sacrament, Frankly, it is our prospective selves we tithing, and the temple, citing sacrifice as betray by holding back whatever the “part.” the “very essence of the Atonement.” 2 No need therefore to ask, “Lord, is it I?” (Matthew 26:22). Rather, let us inquire PHOTOGRAPH BY CRAIG DIMOND Jesus’s Example of Submissiveness about our individual stumbling blocks, Breathtaking submissiveness “Lord, is it this?” We may have was achieved by the Savior known the answer for a long as He faced the anguish and time and may need resolve agonies of the Atonement and more than His response. IN CHRIST, FINDING FAITH “would that [He] might not drink The greatest happiness in God’s the bitter cup, and shrink” (D&C generous plan is finally reserved for 19:18). On our small, imperfect scale, those who are willing to stretch and to we face tests and wish that these would pay the costs of journeying to His regal realm. Brothers somehow be taken away. and sisters, “come, let us anew [this] journey pursue.” 3 Consider this: What of Jesus’s ministry In the name of the Lord of the outstretched arm (see if He had performed additional miracles but without the D&C 103:17; 136:22), even Jesus Christ, amen. ■ transcending miracle of Gethsemane and Calvary? His other Subheads added; spelling, style, and source citations standardized. miracles brought blessed extensions of life and lessened NOTES suffering—for some. But how could these miracles pos- 1. In James R. Clark, comp., Messages of the First Presidency of The sibly compare with the greatest miracle of the universal Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 6 vols. (1965–75), 1:185. 2. Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley (1997), 147. Resurrection? (see 1 Corinthians 15:22). The multiplying of 3. “Come, Let Us Anew,” Hymns, no. 217. SACRAMENT PHOTOGRAPH BY GRANT HEATON; SCENE FROM THE CHURCH FILM SACRAMENT PHOTOGRAPH BY GRANT HEATON;

30 My Answer at the Door

BY VICTOR L. HARRIS A foreboding feeling consumed hortly after Janet and I became engaged, the me, but as I missionaries began teaching us the gospel. prayed, I felt SJanet had been raised a member of the Church light pierce the but had not attended regularly since her teens; I had darkness of my worshipped infrequently at a Baptist church while heart.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY GREGG THORKELSON ILLUSTRATIONS growing up.

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 31 couldn’t shake the feeling that Forrest’s time was going to be short. II tried rejecting the thought, but the apprehension wouldn’t fade.

Although I already believed Jesus was our Savior, I was sur- prised to learn other aspects of LDS doctrine; Christ’s visit to the Americas, Joseph Smith’s First Vision, and a living prophet all were new to me. I compared points of doctrine in the Book of Mormon and the Bible and learned how to pray. While I continued to take the missionary discussions over the next two years, perhaps with an intellectual more than a spiritual approach, we attended church regularly. The ward’s bishop performed our wedding ceremony. Through it all, though, I really had no strong feelings one way or the other about the Church, no real conviction or testimony. In retrospect, I realize I was simply going through the motions

32 NOW IS THE TIME FOR PERSONAL CONVERSION “Now is the time for each of us to work toward our without a heartfelt desire to know the personal con- surveyed the used tissues on the end truth. It took a personal crisis to finally version, toward becoming what table and my red eyes and asked me break through my intellectual cobwebs our Heavenly Father desires us to the same question. During her drive and to help me undeniably feel and see become. As we do so, we should home, Janet had experienced the same the Spirit in action. remember that our family relation- foreboding thoughts about Forrest, Our second son, Forrest, then two ships . . . are the setting in which the thoughts so powerful that she was also months old, had been sickly since birth. most important part of that develop- moved to tears. We held each other One night while I was driving home ment can occur. The conversion there in the living room and sobbed. with him and our two-year-old son, we must achieve requires us to be a There was a knock at the door. We Houston, Forrest’s condition weighed good husband and father or a good dried our eyes, and I answered it. It heavily on me. I recalled the missionar- wife and mother. . . . Exaltation is was one of the ward members with ies’ discussion about how we each have an eternal family experience, and two missionaries. He apologized for different things to accomplish in life and it is our mortal family experiences stopping by without an appointment varying time spans in which to do them. that are best suited to prepare us but said they were in the neighbor- The feeling that Forrest’s time was going for it.” hood and had a feeling they should to be short consumed me. I tried reject- Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the stop by. He asked if there was any- Twelve Apostles, “The Challenge to ing the thought, but the apprehension Become,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 33. thing they could do for us. I said, “Yes, wouldn’t fade. Tears flowed down my could you please give my son a bless- face as I drove. ing?” They proceeded to anoint Forrest I arrived home just before Janet. I situated Houston with consecrated oil and give him a blessing of health. I with some toys and sat down with Forrest on my lap and thanked them, and they excused themselves. looked at him. I couldn’t shake the awful feeling and Forrest’s health improved immediately. At Forrest’s next began crying again. Houston sat next to me, held my appointment, the doctor was impressed with his condi- hand, and looked at me as if asking, “What’s wrong?” I tion and weight gain. “Was it by chance?” I wondered. didn’t know. That made me cry even harder. I felt out of Such bleak feelings were not usual for me, and I couldn’t control, as if something unstoppable was happening in explain why I felt better after praying, how Janet had the front of me. identical experience at the same time, or how the elders In the midst of the gloom, the thought came to pray for stopped by at the right moment. help. I prayed fervently, humbly thanking Heavenly Father I pondered these events over the next two months and for all He had blessed me with. I recognized my shortcom- concluded that I had been foolish in trying to pass them ings. I acknowledged that perhaps Heavenly Father had off as coincidence. I was baptized in January 1985, and other plans for Forrest, but I pleaded with Him to continue our family was sealed in the in June to entrust me with him, to allow him to tarry, to bless and 1986. I am so thankful that the Lord demonstrated to me heal him. that He answers prayer, that the priesthood is powerful, I immediately felt a ray of light and hope pierce the and that the Holy Spirit can be a powerful influence in darkness in my heart. As the gloom began to fade, Janet our lives. My life has been richly blessed by this experi- arrived home. I set Forrest down and went to her. Her ence, which helped me know our Father in Heaven in moist eyes and the tissue in her hand betrayed the fact ways that I never could have learned through intellectual that she had been crying. I asked what was wrong. She study alone. ◼

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 33 Becoming Spiritually Whole

After years of frustration about my physical challenges, I finally turned to the Lord to heal my heart.

3434 BY SHARI PHIPPEN The scriptures tell of a woman who hat’s wrong with your eye?” was plagued with “ The innocent question came an illness and had Won a bus ride home from school spent years try- in the eighth grade. I never imagined it ing to determine would start a series of doctor appointments, what was wrong. tears, stares, and questions that would con- It seemed as if the tinue for the next 14 years. story were written That afternoon I told my mom what my about me. friend had noticed—that my left eyelid was drooping. She made an appointment with my pediatrician at Bethesda Naval Hospital in

Maryland. Unable to find the cause, my doc- BY JUDITH A. MEHR tor had me hospitalized for three days. The THY FAITH, THY FAITH, tests from that visit and every subsequent visit over the next four years yielded the wrong, but adults would just stare or talk same result—nothing conclusive. about it when I was out of the room. Some During this time I received many priest- people even called me names; “Cyclops” hood blessings and visits from family mem- was the most common. And I started to bers and ward friends, each expressing kind- wonder if it was the reason I was single. In ness and compassion. In a thoughtful letter my heart I knew these things did not affect filled with testimony, my stake president who I was, but it was difficult not to let the encouraged me to turn to the Savior to find staring and comments hurt me. And when I comfort. Even so, I struggled to understand developed chronic double vision, I became why I was facing this challenge. really discouraged. Why was the Lord giving Three years later my family moved to me this trial? southeast Idaho, and I began to travel to One particularly frustrating night, I was Salt Lake City to see if the doctors there had reading my scriptures and came across the any answers to our questions. What was story of a woman who was plagued with an wrong? Could it be fixed? How serious was illness and had spent more than a decade it? I decided to have some minor cosmetic seeking medical advice, trying to figure out surgery to lift my eyelid. Initially it was a suc- what was wrong. Instantly, I was drawn to cess, but within a year, my eye was droop- the story. It seemed as if the story were writ- ing again. Doctors suspected I had a form of ten about me. As I read with tears stream- muscular dystrophy, but the determining test ing down my cheeks, I was particularly was extremely painful, so I decided to forego impressed by these verses: the procedure. “But the woman fearing and trembling,

PHOTOGRAPH BY ROBERT CASEY PHOTOGRAPH BY ROBERT Little children would ask me what was knowing what was done in her, came and fell

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 35 AN ABILITY TO BEAR OUR BURDENS

“Healing blessings come in many ways, each suited I know that my down before him, and told to our individual needs, as known worrying that it was the imperfect body is him all the truth. to Him who loves us best. Sometimes reason I am not married. I temporary; some- And he said unto her, a ‘healing’ cures our illness or lifts have learned compassion day I will be made Daughter, thy faith hath our burden. But sometimes we are for others with physical physically whole. made thee whole; go in ‘healed’ by being given strength or struggles. I make an effort But for now, whole- peace, and be whole of thy understanding or patience to bear to withhold judgment. ness comes not from plague” (Mark 5:33–34). the burdens placed upon us.” Mostly, I have learned that being physically per- In a tender moment, the Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum being physically imperfect of the Twelve Apostles, “He Heals the fect but from faith Spirit taught me about what Heavy Laden,” Ensign, Nov. 2006, 7. does not affect my ability in a Savior who will it means to be made whole. to live the gospel, serve calm, comfort, and It does not always mean a healing of our others, hold callings, or pursue my goals heal my heart. physical infirmities. Rather, it means that when and ambitions. I am limited only by my own we come to the Savior, He will first heal our fears. I know that my imperfect body is tem- hearts and then, sometimes, He will heal our porary; someday I will be made physically bodies. To be made whole, we have to reach whole. But for now, wholeness comes not out to Him in faith. In the case of the woman from being physically perfect but from faith in the story, she literally reached out and in a Savior who will calm, comfort, and heal touched the hem of the Savior’s garment. In my heart. ◼ my case, I had to pour my heart out in prayer. After two more years of testing and one outpatient surgery, I had an answer—mito- chondrial myopathy, a form of muscular dys- trophy. To this day I do not understand what HELPS FOR HOME EVENING it fully means. I do understand a little about what causes it and what I can do to lessen 1. Read about the woman in Mark 5:22–34 its accompanying symptoms and complica- and act out her story. What was the result of her tions. While it is not life threatening, there is determination and faith? Share the story of Shari no cure. Phippen. Discuss how her faith and determina- About four years have passed since I tion healed her spiritually. What challenges and received my diagnosis. In many ways, noth- trials do we face, and what is required of us? ing has changed. I still have double vision Conclude by reading the quotation by Elder Oaks. most of the time. Children still ask questions; 2. Share the story of Shari Phippen and ask adults still stare. My eye is almost closed; family members to listen for the name or label eventually, it may close entirely. people gave her. Then read the last paragraph of In the most important way, however, the article and ask if the label is a true descrip- everything has changed. The Savior contin- tion of who Shari is. Discuss how we can have ues to heal my heart as I come to Him with compassion for others and make an effort to my burden. I no longer worry about the withhold judgment. staring and questions, and long ago I stopped

36 Tips for 4Family Night BY DEANN STARKEY We made family home evening the best night of the week.

everal years ago we began to seriously consider how effective our family home evenings were. SThere were many times we wondered if we were really getting through to our young children. They seemed to do well if we were playing board games, but they struggled to listen and behave during gospel discussions. As parents, we cherished the time together with our children, but more important, we knew how vital it was that we teach the gospel to them. Yes, they would learn gospel principles at church, but would they understand the importance of living these principles if we didn’t also teach them in our home? This question has crossed my mind many times as my husband and I have tried different ways to teach the gospel to our children on Monday night. Through trial and error, we have found four principles that help make family home evening a time not only of having fun together but also of learning concepts that

ILLUSTRATIONS BY DILLEEN MARSH ILLUSTRATIONS strengthen our testimonies of the gospel.

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 37 Preparation 2 We place the family home evening chart in a place where everyone can see it throughout the week. Because of this, it provides a constant reminder of what each family member needs to do to prepare for Monday night. After our family scripture study on Monday morning, I ask the children if they need anything special for their part for family home evening. Generally, the responses include help with the treat or lesson, but occasionally someone asks for a picture to go Participation along with a scripture or the words to a song. Even the youngest of our four children We decided we wanted to provide our two youngest chil- seemed to want a “job” for family home eve- dren opportunities to teach the lesson. In order to help them, ning. We made a chart that allowed for each I have made several short, simple lessons they can give. This family member to be in charge of something helps our family in more than one way. Our children enjoy 1 each week and hung it in our dining room. being able to pick their own topics, and their father and I At the end of family home evening, we rotated like the fact that using and delivering these lessons also helps each name to a new responsibility. This way, them prepare to give Primary talks. we all knew ahead of time what we needed to do to be ready For example, when our oldest son, Easton, was preparing the next week. This increased participation, provided structure for his baptism, he taught us about baptism using one for the evening, and created a more reverent atmosphere. For example, not long after our youngest son, Hunter, turned fi ve, he was assigned to share a scripture. As he and I talked about what kind of scripture he wanted to give, he became excited and ran from the room to get his copy of the children’s reader Book of Mormon Stories. He turned to the picture of Lehi holding the Liahona and then announced that he wanted his scripture to be about how Lehi received the Liahona. We decided that rather than have me read a scrip- ture for him to repeat, he would tell the story to the family. The following week it was Hunter’s turn to give the les- son. He again chose to talk about the Liahona. However, this time he also talked about how following the example of Jesus and making good choices keep us close to Heavenly Father. Although I helped him organize his thoughts, he chose which gospel principles he wanted to share. How sweet it was for us, his parents, to witness Hunter develop- ing a testimony of the restored gospel.

38 of these lessons. Several months after his baptism, he was assigned to give a talk about the same subject for the Primary sacrament meeting program. Many of the things he included in his talk came from his family home evening lesson. He felt confi dent as he gave his talk, and he was able to bear a sweet testimony about 4 baptism and its importance. Flexibility Simplicity Despite our best efforts to keep Monday nights clear of Even as our other activities, sometimes things come up that are unavoid- older children are able. When we know in advance that this is going to be the becoming teen- case, we reschedule family home evening for another night 3 agers, we have or, if possible, we attend the event as a family and go out for found that keeping ice cream or have a treat at home afterward. We have found the lessons short, that being fl exible while still making family time a priority simple, and focused on areas of has increased our unity and love for each other. interest has been a key ingredient to having effective family home Blessings from Holding Family Home Evening evenings. We often incorporate Family home evening has proven useful in gauging simple object lessons to illustrate where my husband and I need to focus our attentions for our lessons. For example, once our family. It has given us great insight into our children’s we turned off all the lights and understanding of gospel principles and has given us the gave each family member a fl ash- opportunity to answer their questions. There is no greater light. Then we danced to songs feeling than to see our children touched by the Holy Ghost about sharing the light of the as they gain a testimony of our Savior and His gospel. gospel with others. Simple object It is within our home that we perform our greatest work lessons like this have created in teaching our children to live the gospel and to make memorable nights and reinforced righteous decisions. Our example and love for family home gospel principles. evening has truly made it the best night of the week. ■

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 39 DESERET MORNING I REMEMBER BY WILLIAM WHITAKER, © BY WILLIAM WHITAKER, MAY NOT BE COPIED MAY NEWS, Joseph JOSEPH SMITH,

any who knew the Prophet Joseph Smith wrote Jesse N. Smith, the Prophet’s cousin, said: “[ Joseph of their experiences with him. Here, some of Smith was] incomparably the most God-like man I ever M those accounts accompany artwork featuring saw. . . . I know that by nature he was incapable of lying the Prophet. Some accounts were written near the time and deceitfulness, possessing the greatest kindness and of the event depicted in the art and others long after, but nobility of character. I felt when in his presence that he they all give insight into his life as a man and as a prophet could read me through and through. I know he was all of God. that he claimed to be.” 1 BY SAM LAWLOR BY A. D. SHAW, COURTESY OF MUSEUM OF CHURCH HISTORY AND ART OF MUSEUM CHURCH HISTORY COURTESY BY A. D. SHAW, JOSEPH SMITH REBUKING THE GUARDS IN RICHMOND JAIL, JOSEPH IN THE GROVE,

40 Right: Emmeline Blanche Wells wrote: “In the Prophet Joseph Smith, I be- lieved I recognized the great spiritual power that brought joy and comfort to the Saints. . . . The power of God rested upon him to such a degree that on many occasions he seemed transfi g- ured. . . . The glory of his countenance was beyond description.” 2

Far left: A grove of trees often became the setting for the Prophet to speak to the Latter-day Saints. Amasa Potter recalled: “I remember the Prophet arising to preach to a large congrega- tion in the grove west of the Temple in Nauvoo. . . . Joseph stated that every Latter-day Saint had a [spiritual] gift, and by living a righteous life, and asking for it, the Holy Spirit would reveal it to him or her.” 3

Left: Parley P. Pratt wrote of the time the Prophet Joseph Smith and others were held as prisoners in the jail in Richmond, . They had listened for hours to the dreadful blasphemies and fi lthy language of the guards. “On a sudden [ Joseph] arose to his feet, and spoke in a voice of thunder, or as the roaring lion, uttering, as near as I can recollect, the following words: “ ‘ SILENCE. . . . In the name of Jesus Christ I rebuke you, and command NOT BE COPIED MAY ARTS, BY LIZ LEMON SWINDLE, FOUNDATION you to be still.’ . . . “The quailing guards . . . begged his 4 pardon, and remained quiet.” JOSEPH, MY SERVANT

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 41 BY LIZ LEMON SWINDLE, FOUNDATION ARTS, ARTS, BY LIZ LEMON SWINDLE, FOUNDATION BROTHERS, NOT BE COPIED MAY BY LIZ LEMON SWINDLE, FLOWERS FOR A LADY, FLOWERS FOR A LADY, NOT BE COPIED MAY ARTS, FOUNDATION Above: Mercy R. Thompson wrote of Inset above: This painting depicts the Prophet,“When riding with him Hyrum and Joseph Smith pulling and his wife Emma in their carriage I sticks. Mosiah L. Hancock wrote, have known him to alight and gather “Brother Joseph offered to pull sticks prairie fl owers for my little girl.” 5 with anyone—and he pulled them all up one at a time.” 6

Left: Eunice Billings Snow wrote: “I saw the ‘Nauvoo Legion’ on parade with the Prophet, . . . with his wife, Emma Hale Smith, on horseback at the head of the troops. . . . He so fair, and she so dark, in their beautiful riding-habits. He in full military suit, and she with her habit trimmed with gold buttons. . . . His favorite riding- horse was named Charlie, a big black steed.” 7 JOSEPH MUSTERING THE NAUVOO LEGION, BY C. C. A. CHRISTENSEN, COURTESY OF MUSEUM OF ART

42 Right: Parley P. Pratt recalled, “On the 21st day of February, 1835, I took the oath and covenant of apostle- ship, and was solemnly set apart and ordained to that offi ce; and as a member of that quorum under the hands of Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer.” 8

Below: Lucy Walker Kimball wrote: “He well knew . . . that he must sacrifi ce his life for the principles God had revealed through him. . . . I have often heard him say he expected to seal his testimony with his blood.” 9 ■ BY WALTER RANE, © 2002 IRI BY WALTER

NOTES 1. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society course of study, 2007), 499. 2. Teachings: Joseph Smith, 502. 3. Teachings: Joseph Smith, 117. 4. Teachings: Joseph Smith, 351. 5. Mercy R. Thompson, “Recollections of the Prophet Joseph Smith,” Juvenile Instructor, July 1892, 399. 6. Teachings: Joseph Smith, 431. 7. Eunice Billings Snow, “A Sketch of the Life of Eunice Billings Snow,” Woman’s Exponent, Sept. 1910, 22. 8. Parley P. Pratt, Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt, ed. Parley P. Pratt Jr. (1938), 95. 9. Lucy Walker Kimball, “Lucy Walker Kimball (Autobiography),”

Woman’s Exponent, Nov. 1910, 34. AS AN APOSTLE, PRATT P. JOSEPH SMITH ORDAINING PARLEY BY HAROLD HOPKINSON, MAY NOT BE COPIED BY HAROLD HOPKINSON, MAY THE PROPHET REINED HIS HORSE, JUST ONE LAST LOOK AT FAIR NAUVOO, FAIR THE PROPHET REINED HIS HORSE, JUST ONE LAST LOOK AT

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 43 I have learned not to respond to How can I stand up in the workplace for what I believe co-workers’ questions as though they without seeming self-righteous or judgmental? were criticizing me.

I am a research scientist, and most of my peers follow a secular philosophy. Typically, they avoid making value judgments and try to show respect for another person’s religion. My secular colleagues become defensive if they are misinterpreted as being judgmental or disrespectful when they merely intend to share their observations.

44 I have learned not to respond to their with them and had proven myself a to inappropriate jokes and stories, comments or questions as though they hard worker. or taking part in the often boisterous were criticizing me. Instead, I speak I have also learned that we need complaint sessions held at the nurses’ straightforwardly and unapologetically. to do what is right despite what oth- station or break room, because these I answer their questions frankly—in ers might think about us. If we do detracted from the Spirit. However, the same way I answer their ques- so, Heavenly Father will bless us. For I tried to be respectful of co-workers’ tions about my scientific opinions example, while I was still working at beliefs and personal decisions. I had and research methods. I have found this same company, I was regularly to remember that even though we that even our disagreements offer me expected to work very long hours. may not believe the same things or act chances to grow and develop in my Between this and a demanding Church in the same ways, we are all children

ILLUSTRATIONS BY ROGER MOTZKUS ILLUSTRATIONS faith, just as scientific disagreements calling, I realized that my family and of our Heavenly Father and all of us offer me opportunities to grow and I were suffering because I had so little are valued and cherished by the Lord. develop in my understanding of the time for them. I also tried to have a positive, patient, natural world. I had a very honest and professional and helpful attitude in hopes that my I have been privileged to have many conversation with my boss and let him co-workers would find it easy to work open and enlightening discussions about know that the hours were affecting my with me. Although I wasn’t perfectly my religion with my peers, and though family life and that my family was more successful, I confidently and rever- we choose to live according to differ- important than my job. He understood ently shared my gospel beliefs and ent beliefs and standards, we can do so but couldn’t make any guarantees. I standards when approached and with mutual respect and understanding. knew that I would need to leave the when appropriate. Soren Harward, Pennsylvania company. As much as I miss the fun I learned that by politely avoiding One of the most enjoyable jobs I’ve of the work and the friendships I had situations and behaviors that detract had was with a large company consist- made there, it was the right choice. from the Spirit and by showing ing of mostly young men who were Heavenly Father has since blessed me Christlike love for others, I was able good employees and fun individuals. to work for a wonderful company that to stand up for what I believe while However, some of them used language places high value on work-life balance. maintaining positive relationships that made me cringe. I had many a My family is happy, and our testimonies with my co-workers. late-night discussion with my wife have grown. Name Withheld about how to approach the situation. Benjamin Defnet, Oregon I work with a small group of women I didn’t want to seem self-righteous I used to work as a nurse in a high- for a few hours each week. About a or strain relationships. stress environment in which standards year ago a new woman joined our After much prayer, I decided that I were dictated by the world. I was group. She often used foul language. just needed to be straightforward and the first “Mormon” that many of my I was very uncomfortable but didn’t politely let these individuals know co-workers had ever met. I realized want to appear “preachy” by asking that their cursing made me uncomfort- not only that my co-workers did not her to stop talking that way. Since I able. Most of them, though surprised know or understand my beliefs but didn’t know her very well, I was not at my request, apologized and made also that they were likely to judge the sure what her reaction to my comments noticeable efforts to clean up their Church based on my actions. would be. However, I decided that if language around me. It helped that I strove to avoid participating in I didn’t say something, the atmosphere I had established good relationships spreading gossip, telling or listening would continue to deteriorate.

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 45 When a co-worker swore, I explained that I wasn’t comfortable listening to that language. Even though she didn’t understand my point of view, she immediately began to make changes.

STANDING FOR TRUTH “We need individu- als who have the spiritual, righteous influence that will motivate others to enduring good. We need politicians of integrity, business- people who are honest and morally clean, attorneys who defend justice and the legal system, and govern- ment officials who preserve prin- ciple because it is right. Above all, we need mothers and fathers who will preserve the sanctity and safety of the home and the integrity of the family, where faith in God and obedience to His commandments are taught as the foundation of a productive life.”

Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Living Right,” Ensign, Jan. 2007, 14.

I decided on an approach that I thought would bring some humor into the situation. The next time she used a particu- larly offensive word, I placed my hands over my ears and said, “That word hurts my ears.” She was shocked. She said that we were all adults and she didn’t see what the problem was. I explained that I didn’t speak that way and I wasn’t comfortable listening to that language.

46 I don’t think anyone had ever told did not experience any difficulty being employees and customers respected me her that her language was offensive. both a Mormon and a salesman. We for following my convictions. Even though she didn’t quite under- had a prayer together in his office, and Bill Dain, Utah stand my point of view, she immedi- one month later I was baptized. My suc- When I first began working in my ately began to make changes in the cess was not hindered by any means, current job, I felt a little uncomfortable way she talked when we were together. and as time progressed, my fellow with the surroundings. My co-workers Now she seldom swears around were friendly but sometimes crude. I me, and if something slips out she I took a Book of Mormon to work learned that in order to be comfortable apologizes. The truly amazing part is each day. I needed to set an example. that she is very protective of me and I took a Book of Mormon to work makes sure to explain to others that each day. My co-workers often asked they need to watch how they why I read this book instead of the talk around me. Bible. I simply replied that studying It took a lot of courage to the Book of Mormon provides me speak up, but I’m glad that I with inner peace and helps me get did. We have become friends. answers to my problems. She respects me, and I have had To help my co-workers understand opportunities to talk with her about my feelings about different topics, I the gospel. shared copies of the Ensign with them Carolyn Johnston, Canada and I talked with them about what When my wife and I mar- they read. For example, my co-workers ried 30 years ago, I was a sales sometimes play music with a lot of engineer for a raw materials company in profanity. I gave them an Ensign with California. My wife was a member of the an article about clean music. I then Church at the time, but I was not. After explained that I listen only to music a while I began to more fully appreciate SHARE YOUR IDEAS that invites the Spirit into my life. my wife’s beliefs, and I decided to take I have explained that I do not drink n upcoming Questions and the missionary lessons. During this time coffee or tea, and when they ask why, I A Answers feature will focus on the I became concerned that my co-workers explain the Word of Wisdom. They have following question: might no longer accept me because of respected me for my beliefs. How do I achieve balance in my life the major life changes I was making as If one of my co-workers is discour- given all the demands on my time? I began to live the gospel. However, one aged, I sometimes will leave a sticky note If you’d like to contribute your ideas of my co-workers noticed that I was dif- on her desk to cheer her up, or I’ll tell and experiences, please label them ferent and commented positively about her that Heavenly Father loves her and I “balanced life” and follow the submission what he had observed. do too. Smiling and asking people how guidelines under “Do You Have a Story I admitted to him that I was worried they are doing makes them feel good to Tell?” in the contents pages at the that becoming a member might hurt and gives them a chance to talk about beginning of the magazine. Please limit my future as a successful employee. He their concerns and ask for advice. Doing responses to 500 words and submit them assured me I was on the right track and these things has made a huge difference. by January 15th. then revealed that he was a bishop and Samantha Seenaraine, Guyana ◼

ENSIGNENSIGN DECEMBERSEPTEMBER 2008 2008 4747 the

n a energyitth w itth ere has been w th zee. s rgy drinks iz ene drink ine—a drug ffe an many real In recent years ththere has been an explosion ofs energy drinks with

high levels of caffeine—a drug with greater risks than many realize.

48 epidemic BY THOMAS J. BOUD, MD I found the situation terribly saddening. Mrs. Jones loved serving in Church callings and had given energetic and “ octor Boud, your patient Mrs. Jones (name has dedicated spiritual assistance to others for many years. She been changed) is in the emergency room with a had recently served wonderfully and faithfully as her ward Ddouble pelvic fracture,” reported my nurse Jamie. My Relief Society president. However, her double pelvic frac- concern grew as I remembered treating Mrs. Jones for the past ture not only prevented her from actively serving but in her several years for her severe osteoporosis. Given her age, the case was life threatening. I could not help thinking about length of the healing process, her current health problems, and her high caffeine intake—six or seven colas every day—and potential complications, a pelvic fracture was serious indeed. how likely it was that this chemical had contributed to her As I reviewed her medical chart, a long sequence of current health problems, including dehydration, an irregular events fl ooded my mind. Mrs. Jones was one of my favorite heart condition, insomnia, and osteoporosis, each of which elderly patients; increased the I had been caring seriousness of for her for many the situation. years. I was treat- ing her for several The Rise of serious conditions, Caffeine Abuse including an irregu- Although Mrs. lar heart condition Jones’s condition and insomnia, and represents an I was treating her extreme, the real- with aggressive ity is that doctors

therapy for severe SUSUMU NISHINAGA/PHOTO RESEARCHERS, INC. are seeing more

osteoporosis. Seen through a microscope, healthy bones are strong but porous (left image). and more patients In addition, I had Bones with osteoporosis are brittle and fragile from loss of tissue (right image). with caffeine-

repeatedly tried to STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/PHOTO RESEARCHERS, INC. related symptoms convince her to eliminate one particular habit that I knew and medical conditions. This situation has been made worse was making her condition worse, a habit that often is not by the exploding use of heavily caffeinated beverages known taken seriously and that can have an enormous impact on collectively as “energy drinks.” one’s health. This habit involves the abuse of a drug to which The numbers are staggering. In 2006 alone, approximately most people give little thought, even though it is now the 500 new brands of energy drinks were introduced into the most commonly abused drug on the planet. What was her market. In addition, 7.6 million young people have reported habit? Excessive cola consumption. The drug? Caffeine. having used energy drinks, and consumption has more than One must keep in mind, of course, that from a medical doubled in the past three years. The energy drink industry point of view there are certain appropriate uses for caffeine. has ballooned into a $3 billion-a-year enterprise. 1 The com- For example, doctors will sometimes prescribe caffeine for panies that produce energy drinks use aggressive marketing use in neonatal care. In addition, used in moderation, caf- techniques directed toward youth and college-age consum- feine may not pose signifi cant health risks. It was the result- ers, yet little data on the health hazards of these beverages ing side effects from overuse of the drug that gave me such has been publicized. This means that many people are drink-

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOHN LUKE concern in Mrs. Jones’s case. ing energy drinks with a poor understanding of the potential

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 49 Regular Cola Tea, Brewed Coffee, Instant Coffee, Brewed 41 mg Caffeine 47 mg Caffeine 57 mg Caffeine 107.5 mg Caffeine

500 mg

400 mg

300 mg

200 mg U

U 100 mg U U U U U

0 mg physical and medical side effects of the caffeine contained in substance. Any addictive behavior, whatever the source, the beverages they consume. can lead to a loss of spiritual health and freedom. Not all caffeinated drinks are created equal; the quan- President James E. Faust (1920–2007) said, “Some addic- tity of caffeine varies greatly from product to product. To tions can control us to the point where they take away put this into perspective, consider that most cola soft drinks our God-given agency. One of Satan’s great tools is to fi nd have from 22 to 55 milligrams (mg) of caffeine, compared ways to control us. Consequently, we should abstain from to a common cup of tea that varies from 26 to 47 mg. anything that would keep us from fulfi lling the Lord’s pur- Coffee may have from 57 mg for a cup of instant to 180 mg poses for us, whereby the blessings of eternity may hang in for a cup of brewed. By comparison, energy drinks may jeopardy. . . . Any kind of addiction infl icts a terrible price have from 80 to 500 mg of caffeine in one can. 2 Companies in pain and suffering, and it can even affect us spiritually.” 3 compete to market the product that provides the biggest I have treated a number of caffeine-related medical con- jolt. To do this, manufacturers combine caffeine with other ditions. Milder conditions include jitteriness, agitation, insom- substances such as alcohol in order to intensify its effects. nia, diffi culty concentrating, and rapid heart rate. Use of caf- These beverages often come in large containers and are feine can lead to a decrease in cerebral blood fl ow in adults frequently loaded with calorie-heavy sugars. and could increase the chance of compromising long-term growth in infants. 4 Caffeine The Effects of Caffeine Abuse can also precipitate other con- What are the conse- ditions that can lead to further quences of high caffeine problems. Here’s an example: consumption? First and Using caffeine on a long-term foremost, caffeine is a central basis to compensate for tired- nervous system stimulant that ness resulting from life-style can lead to addiction. Both as choices results not only in a doctor and as a member of sleep deprivation but also in the Church, I recognize the physiological stress. These in

physical, mental, and spiri- Webs created by a caffeine-free spider on left and a turn can lead to an increased

tual dangers of any addictive caffeinated spider on the right. level of certain hormones that © 1982 PETER N.; SPIDER COMMUNICATION. PHOTOGRAPHS OF SPIDER WEBS BY WITT, PRINCETON UNIVERSITY PRESS REPRINTED BY PERMISSION OF PRESS.

50 Weak Energy Drink Average Energy Drink Extreme Energy Drink 12 0 mg Caffeine 220 mg Caffeine 500+ mg Caffeine CAFFEINE CONTENT IN U COMMON BEVERAGES Source: www.energyfi end .com/the-caffeine-database While most sodas can be pur- chased in 12-ounce cans, energy drinks are sold in a variety of vol- umes, many of which are greater than 12 ounces. The orange line depicts the amount of caffeine in U various beverages per 12 ounces. The yellow line depicts the total amount of caffeine in each can or bottle as it is normally sold. U

U U

U

Risks of Heart Caffeine Disease, Diabetes, Introduced can lower one’s metabolism. A lower metabolism leads to High Blood Pressure, an increased craving of carbohydrates and sugars and often Osteoarthritic Problems will result in weight gain. Ironically, many people use these drinks in order to lose weight, whereas just the opposite may Worsening Increased Obesity CAFFEINE- Cortisol occur. Many physicians believe that this process has contrib- INDUCED Hormone uted signifi cantly to the current problem of obesity in the Levels STRESS . Weight gain has a negative infl uence on the STRESS AND medical conditions of sleep apnea, diabetes, depression, and More Cravings for Cravings for WEIGHT GAIN: even cardiac and cerebrovascular disease. Carbs and Carbs and Sugars As my experience with Mrs. Jones demonstrates, high caf- THE VICIOUS8 Sugars feine intake can cause a number of other serious problems CYCLE as well, such as elevated blood pressure, gastrointestinal dis- Further Increase in orders, and even osteoporosis. Other commonly known physi- Cortisol and Increased Exaggerated ological effects of caffeine consumption include acid refl ux, Abdominal Responses Fat urinary incontinence, restless leg syndrome, tremors, irritable to Stress bowel syndrome, and atrial fi brillation. Research also indicates a close relationship between caffeine use and elevated choles- I have seen many patients whose depression has actu- terol levels and, potentially, coronary heart disease. 5 ally worsened after continued excessive caffeine intake. Despite its frequent use as a performance enhancer among In addition, some of them have suffered severe rebound high school and college athletes, caffeine can also cause headaches and even required hospitalization for conges- agitation and even episodes of rage. 6 Furthermore, chemi- tive heart failure. Unfortunately, there have also been cally dependent athletes are at risk of disciplinary action from deaths reported as a direct result of caffeine overdose. 7 their athletic programs because many sports programs have banned caffeinated energy drinks as a form of cheating. Caffeine Abuse and the Word of Wisdom In addition to rage and agitation, other mood disorders Now what does this mean for us as Latter-day Saints? negatively affected by caffeine include ADHD, premen- While we are counseled against taking addictive sub- strual dysphoric disorder, anxiety, and even depression. stances or harmful drugs, the Word of Wisdom does not

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 51 THE BODY IS A TEMPLE Initial doses of caf- “ ‘The temple of God feine can yield increased athletic is holy, which temple performance, energy, alertness, and heart ye are’ (1 Corinthians rate. High doses of caffeine can yield muscle 3:17). May we keep our t twitching, anxiety/nervousness, irritability/rage, bodies—our temples—fi acid refl ux, insomnia, hypertension, and diuresis.

and clean, free from harmful substances CAFFEINE ABUSE CYCLE which destroy our physical, mental, and As caffeine begins to wear off, effects can include spiritual well-being.” rebound headaches, sluggishness, fatigue, light- headedness, and depression. These crash effects President Thomas, May S. 2006,Monson, 19. “True to the Ensign Faith,” often motivate users to increase caffeine consumption, and the cycle repeats.

“And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint. “And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the Top EKG represents a normal heart rate. The bottom EKG destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of represents a heart rate after consuming caffeine. Israel, and not slay them” (D&C 89:18–21). specifi cally prohibit caffeine. However, I believe that if we How marvelous these promises are, that we may walk and follow the spirit of the Word of Wisdom, we will be very not faint and run and not be weary and that the destroying careful about what we consume, particularly any substance angel will pass us by! Great spiritual treasures are available to that can have a negative impact on our bodies. This is true those who actively seek to keep the Lord’s commandments. regarding any drug, substance, or even food that may be Even when faced with overcoming an addictive tendency damaging to one’s health. This includes caffeine. Think such as caffeine abuse, we can improve. It may take great of all the problems that excessive caffeine use causes that effort, but we can do it. The power of the Atonement can could be avoided by following this counsel. Had my patient give us the strength to overcome these challenges, and the Mrs. Jones avoided caffeine or at least used it in moderation, Holy Ghost will be our support and our guide. In addition, she likely would have fared much better. our minds and hearts will be invigorated, our bodies will be Of course, not everyone who drinks caffeine will have a healthier and stronger, and we will fi nd a wealth of hidden negative health consequence. However, both the quality and treasures that will provide greater peace in our lives. ◼ the quantity of life can be affected by the misuse of caffeine. Dr. Boud works in family medicine at a primary care facility and volunteers for the Church as a consulting physician in the Missionary Medical Department. Fortunately, the Word of Wisdom provides a guide to help NOTES strengthen and protect both our bodies and our minds and keep 1. See Sharon Worcester, “Energy Drink Trends Alarm Some; No Data Back them healthy so that we can function at our greatest potential Safety,” Family Practice News, Feb. 1, 2007, 1. 2. See www.energyfi end.com/the-caffeine-database. and be available for the Lord’s service. Note some of the glorious 3. James E. Faust, “The Power to Change,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2007, 123–24. blessings promised for those who follow its counsel: 4. David K. Stevenson, “On the Caffeination of Prematurity,” The New “All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, England Journal of Medicine, Nov. 8, 2007, 1967–68. 5. See Clifford J. Stratton, “Caffeine—the Subtle Addiction,” Ensign, June walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive 1988, 60–61. 6. See Worcester, “Energy Drink Trends Alarm Some,” 45. health in their navel and marrow to their bones; 7. See Sarah Kerrigan and Tania Lindsey, “Fatal Caffeine Overdose: Two “And shall fi nd wisdom and great treasures of knowl- Case Reports,” Forensic Science International, Oct. 4, 2005, 67–69. 8. James O’Keefe, MD, and Joan O’Keefe, RD, The Forever Young Diet & edge, even hidden treasures; Lifestyle, 2006, 233.

52

The Other Part of FORGIVENESS BY BECKY DASTRUP was struggling to forgive some acquaintances who had hurt me. Each time I thought of the situation and how sad II was, I felt angry all over again. I decided to talk with a friend, a fellow Christian of a different faith, about my struggle. I told him that I wanted to retain the lessons I had learned but not the pain or anger. I asked, “How can I let my bad feelings go—not just ignore them but actually let them go?” He responded with another question: “What did Jesus tell us to do with our enemies?” “Forgive them,” I said, “but I can’t seem to follow through with that, even though I want to.” peaceful “Yes,” he agreed. “Jesus did teach us to forgive, but He assurance told us to do something else, something that I think makes Afell over me. it possible for us to forgive.” That was it! The My mind went blank. I couldn’t think of anything. My Savior’s words— friend reminded me that the Savior taught us to pray for our ”pray for them enemies. He then pointed out that if others are having a bad which despitefully enough time that they are ready to hurt us, they too must be use you.” hurting inside. When we pray that they will be able to resolve their difficulties, that they will be able to find happiness, he said, we can’t help but feel kindness and love toward them. A peaceful assurance fell over me. That was it! The Savior’s words—“pray for them which despitefully use you” (Matthew 5:44)—were the answer I was searching for. I took those teachings to heart. I found that in pray- ing for the people who I felt had wronged me, I was able to feel peace rather than anger or resentment. Each time I remembered my hurt feelings, I said a prayer in my mind for my acquaintances, and I immediately felt better. In time, I actually started to feel concern and compassion for these people. I even had a desire to help them if I could. I am grateful to have had this gospel-centered conver- sation with my friend of a different faith. It increased my desire to openly speak about my beliefs so that I could have more enlightening experiences like this one. I had been guided and comforted and was blessed to find an

PHOTOGRAPH BY MATTHEW REIER, POSED BY MODEL PHOTOGRAPH BY MATTHEW answer to a challenge. ◼

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 53 SMALL FROM A AND SIMPLE INVITATION BY TOM SMITH Through an invitation from a friend to read the Book of Mormon, I learned that “by small and simple things are great things brought to pass”

hen President Gordon B. Hinckley invited Church “I didn’t know He did,” I admitted. members in 2005 to read the Book of Mormon, “Well, He did,” he continued. “And since you’re a history WI was reminded of how a similar invitation had major, you would probably like to read the history about changed my life. Through an invitation from a friend to read it.” When I said I would, Rick invited me to his apartment, the Book of Mormon, I learned that “by small and simple where I met his wife and received my first copy of the things are great things brought to pass” (see Alma 37:6). Book of Mormon. In the spring of 1979, during my senior year at the Later that afternoon I was at home reading when my University of California, Irvine, I was enrolled in an brother-in-law, Fred, entered and asked me what I was upper-level Spanish class. I had just left class with my reading. I told him I was reading the Book of Mormon. friend Rick Meyers when he asked, “What are you writing He surprised me by saying, “I’ll bet you didn’t know I’m a your term paper on?” Mormon.” He explained that he had gone to church when “The Panama Canal Treaty,” I responded. “What are he was a boy but had stopped attending when he was you writing about?” 14. Then he said, “You know, seeing you read that book “I’m writing about Christ in America,” he stated enthu- makes me want to read it. Can I borrow it tonight?” I gave siastically. I was intrigued and asked him what he meant. him the book, and he stayed up most of the night reading. He clarified, “I’m writing about when Christ came to The next day he went to his bishop and asked how he

America.” might return to the Church. LARSEN RIGHT BY KELLY BY CHRISTINA SMITH RIGHT, ABOVE LEFT; PHOTOGRAPHIC ILLUSTRATIONS:

54 Several days later he invited my sister Marty and me where I saw many more of Heavenly Father’s children to listen to the missionaries the next Sunday. Marty and I enter the waters of baptism. Surely from small and simple were active in our parents’ faith, but we accepted the invi- things do great things come to pass. tation to attend church with the missionaries after listening After returning from my mission, I dated Becky, a girl to their message. Within two months Marty was baptized. I had dated before leaving for Uruguay. We were married I continued attending worship meetings with my parents, in the Jordan River Utah Temple, and we now have eight but I would also go to sacrament children. My other sister and a brother and priesthood meetings each were baptized, and each was week. One Sunday after lis- later married in the Los Angeles tening to many testimonies California Temple. My mom and in fast and testimony meet- dad were baptized in 1984 and ing, I went to the pulpit and sealed to four of their six children said, “I have listened to you in 1985. My remaining brothers all say you know this Church have both recently been is true. And I do not know baptized. My widowed that. What I know is that the grandmother, who told church I grew up in is a good me when she was 78 church and that its members that she was too old are good people. But with all to change religions, my heart I want to know if this was baptized when Church is true. And if it is true, she was 85 and has I will join it.” been sealed to my As soon as I said these grandfather. Many words, I was filled with a generations of our peaceful assurance that ancestors have now indeed the Church was true. I gained the same privi- said nothing more. I returned lege and blessing of being to my seat next to my sister and sealed for eternity. told her, “I want to be baptized I am grateful to a friend next Sunday.” She said, “But you who told me he was writ- just said you did not know the ing his paper on Christ in Church was true.” America and then took the “Yes,” I whispered, “but I know opportunity to invite me to it now!” read the Book of Mormon. I was baptized the next Sunday. This small and simple A simple invitation from a friend invitation not only changed to read the Book of Mormon led to my life and the lives of my my sister’s baptism, then to mine, family but began a journey and then to my call to serve as a of conversion that will missionary in Montevideo, Uruguay, never end. ◼

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 55 Living by the Light of Christ

The power of the Lord’s Spirit “quick- eneth all things” in the lives of the worthy.

56 LESSONS FROM THE

BY ELDER SPENCER J. CONDIE BOOK OF MORMON Of the Seventy ister Wendy Lelo is a faithful, persistent, competent a thousand years, Mormon fittingly concludes his sacred area family history adviser in New Zealand. After record with poignant counsel to his son, Moroni—and to Smaking considerable progress on a family line, she us—about using agency to judge between good and evil. suddenly ran into a brick wall. Mormon exhorts us not only to do right but also to examine In exasperation, she laid aside her pedigree charts, our motives in doing the right thing for the right reasons: certificates, and other records and began reading the “God hath said a man being evil cannot do that which scriptures. Like Lehi, as she read she was soon “filled with is good; for if he offereth a gift, or prayeth unto God, the Spirit of the Lord” (1 Nephi 1:12). The Spirit whispered except he shall do it with real intent it profiteth him noth- impressions regarding some previously unexplored areas ing” (Moroni 7:6). of research. After following those impressions she was This observation should cause each of us to examine the intent of our hearts as we write tith- ing checks, conduct family prayer, hold family home evening, and

It would not be equitable for do our home teaching and visiting some people on the earth to teaching. learn how to judge between Mormon then gives Moroni a fool- good and evil while others proof method for making righteous are denied this opportunity. decisions: “That which is of God Mormon declares the pro- inviteth and enticeth to do good con- found doctrine that “the Spirit tinually; wherefore, every thing which of Christ is given to every inviteth and enticeth to do good,

man, that he may know BY DEL PARSON and to love God, and to serve him, is good from evil.” inspired of God” (Moroni 7:13). It would not be equitable for some people on the earth to learn

THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, how to judge between good and evil while others are denied this able to link 10 additional generations to the family line she opportunity. Mormon declares the profound doctrine that had been pursuing. “the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may If we live worthily, we too can know the truthfulness of know good from evil; wherefore, I show unto you the way the Lord’s declaration that “the power of my Spirit quick- to judge; for every thing which inviteth to do good, and eneth all things” (D&C 33:16). to persuade to believe in Christ, is sent forth by the power and gift of Christ; wherefore ye may know with a perfect Doing Right for the Right Reasons knowledge it is of God” (Moroni 7:16). Near the beginning of the Book of Mormon, Lehi teaches Mormon then cautions, “Seeing that ye know the light his son Jacob of the great gift of moral agency, telling him by which ye may judge, which light is the light of Christ, that “it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things” see that ye do not judge wrongfully. . . . (2 Nephi 2:11), which makes possible freedom of choice. “Wherefore, I beseech of you, brethren, that ye should After reviewing the historical consequences of the search diligently in the light of Christ that ye may know

PHOTOGRAPH BY MATTHEW REIER PHOTOGRAPH BY MATTHEW choices Lehi’s posterity made over the course of nearly good from evil; and if ye will lay hold upon every good

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 57 thing, and condemn it not, ye certainly will be a child of he is in the sun, and the light of the sun, and the power Christ” (Moroni 7:18–19). thereof by which it was made. . . . “And the light which shineth, which giveth you light, Enlightenment on the Light of Christ is through him who enlighteneth your eyes, which is the We recall the incident in Acts 10 when Cornelius, same light that quickeneth your understandings; a prayerful Italian centurion, saw in a vision an angel “Which light proceedeth forth from the presence of who instructed him to send for a man named Peter, who God to fill the immensity of space— was in the city of Joppa at the time. Peter responded to “The light which is in all things, which giveth life to all Cornelius’s invitation and taught him the gospel. things” (D&C 88:6–7, 11–13). Speaking of this incident, the Prophet Joseph Smith taught, The Light of Christ can be diminished within us if we fail to heed Mormon’s counsel to lead lives filled with faith, hope, and charity. John warned us: “He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in dark-

The Light of Christ can be ness even until now. diminished within us if we “He that loveth his brother abi- fail to heed Mormon’s counsel deth in the light, and there is none to lead lives filled with faith, occasion of stumbling in him. hope, and charity, which “But he that hateth his brother is BY TOM LOVELL he defines as “the pure love in darkness, and walketh in dark- of Christ.” ness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes” (1 John 2:9–11). In his eloquent teachings on

MORMON ABRIDGING THE PLATES, charity, Mormon tells us how we can regain the Light of Christ after “There is a difference between the Holy Ghost and the gift of having alienated it through unkind feelings toward others. the Holy Ghost. Cornelius received the Holy Ghost before he He defines charity as “the pure love of Christ” and then was baptized, which was the convincing power of God unto exhorts us to “pray unto the Father with all the energy of him of the truth of the Gospel, but he could not receive the heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath gift of the Holy Ghost until after he was baptized. Had he not bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus taken this sign or ordinance upon him, the Holy Ghost which Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he convinced him of the truth of God, would have left him.” 1 shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as Modern scripture provides enlightenment regarding the he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified Light of Christ: even as he is pure. Amen” (Moroni 7:47–48). “He that ascended up on high, as also he descended May we be filled with this love as we search diligently below all things, in that he comprehended all things, that in the Light of Christ. ◼ he might be in all and through all things, the light of truth; NOTE 1. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (Melchizedek “Which truth shineth. This is the light of Christ. As also Priesthood and Relief Society course of study, 2007), 97.

58 VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE

therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ JESUS CHRIST IS THE LIGHT, LIFE, may rest upon me’ (2 Corinthians AND HOPE OF THE WORLD 12:9)” (“Have We Not Reason to Rejoice?” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2007, 19). Teach the scriptures Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general and quotations that president: “Mormon asks, ‘What is it meet the needs of the . . . ye shall hope for?’ His answer tells sisters you visit. Bear us of the three great hopes: ‘Ye shall testimony of the doctrine. Invite those have hope through the atonement you teach to share what they have felt of Christ and the power of his resur- and learned. rection, to be raised unto life eternal’ (Moroni 7:41). How Is Jesus Christ the Light and the “When you were baptized, you Life of the World? became participants in the first great 1 Nephi 17:13: “I will also be your hope, the Atonement of Christ. Every light in the wilderness; . . . wherefore, world because of his unique posi- time you worthily partake of the inasmuch as ye shall keep my com- tion in what the scriptures call ‘the sacrament, you have the opportu- mandments ye shall be led towards great and eternal plan of deliver- nity to begin again. . . . Your hope the promised land; and ye shall know ance from death’ (2 Nephi 11:5). His and faith in the Savior will increase that it is by me that ye are led.” Resurrection and his Atonement save as you repent and make personal

BY HARRY ANDERSON BY HARRY Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum us from both physical and spiritual changes. . . . of the Twelve Apostles: “Jesus Christ death” (“The Light and the Life,” “The second great hope is the

JESUS CHRIST, is the light and the life of the world. Liahona, Dec. 1997, 42–43; see Resurrection. You are all promised All things were made by him. Under New Era, Dec. 1996, 6). that through our Savior Jesus Christ the direction and according to the you will be resurrected. . . . plan of God the Father, Jesus Christ How Can I Find Hope in Jesus Christ? “With the hope of the Atonement is the Creator, the source of the light President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, and the Resurrection, you have a and the life of all things. . . . Second Counselor in the First third great hope, the hope of eternal “Jesus Christ is the light of the Presidency: “The gospel of Jesus life. . . . Because you have a Savior, world because he is the source of the Christ has the divine power to lift you you also believe in a happy, eternal light which ‘proceedeth forth from the to great heights from what appears at life of creating, serving, and learning.

BY GRANT ROMNEY CLAWSON; BORDER: DETAIL FROM BORDER: DETAIL BY GRANT ROMNEY CLAWSON; presence of God to fill the immensity times to be an unbearable burden or You are already in the strait and nar- of space’ (D&C 88:12). His light is ‘the weakness. The Lord knows your cir- row path, and there is hope smiling true light that lighteth every man that cumstances and your challenges. He brightly before you. . . . You just need cometh into the world’ (D&C 93:2). said to Paul and to all of us, ‘My grace to stay in, pressing forward with a His example and his teachings illumi- is sufficient for thee.’ And like Paul brightness of hope” (“There Is Hope

THE RESURRECTED JESUS CHRIST, nate the path we should walk. . . . we can answer: ‘My strength is made Smiling Brightly before Us,” Liahona

“Jesus Christ is the life of the perfect in weakness. Most gladly and Ensign, May 2003, 103–5). ◼ DETAIL FROM DETAIL ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 59 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

WHAT LITTLE WE HAD WAS ENOUGH By Sueli de Aquino

hristmas was coming, but this year we were not going to Ccelebrate with an abundance of food and toys. Papa had passed away, and Mama had begun receiving a small pension as a widow, along with a little rent money. We were in the living room of our apartment, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The room was quiet. Then suddenly e wept in we heard a sound as if someone had gratitude arrived outside the building. Wthat the I got up and looked through the little we had was blinds of the window, from which I enough to give joy could see the entrance to our build- to someone who ing. I saw a homeless woman. She had less. had a few bags and wore tattered clothes. I observed her for a few moments, curious to see what she would do. She opened a small paper sack, took out a few cookies, and began to eat them. Soon afterward she opened another little sack that contained a few coins and began to count them. silently dropped the bills from the wonderful happened. She looked to My young heart was moved, building’s hallway window. heaven and extended her wrinkled and I softly called to my mother, I stayed by our window and hands. Then she placed her hands on “There’s an old woman outside. watched the bills fall. The old woman her chest and gave thanks for the gift Come and see.” My mother looked, saw one fall and then another and she had received. and she also was moved. She asked another. Trying to discover where the Behind the blinds of the window, me to get the can where we kept a money had come from, she looked we wept in gratitude that the little we little money, and without making a at the windows of the building. They had was enough to give joy to some- sound, she left our apartment and were all closed. Then something one who had less. ◼

60 the clock and knew they would all our eyes as my husband and I lis- CAROLS ACROSS be sitting down on a blanket laid tened to the three-part harmony com- carefully out on the floor and eating ing from our phone. We could almost THE COUNTRY a “Christmas feast picnic” of fruit, feel my family in the room with us. By Heather Beauchamp little sausages, cheese, and crackers Their simple song brought into while my father read the account of our home that Christmas Eve a sweet usic and singing have Christ’s birth from the scriptures. In spirit I will always treasure. Of all the always been very important my mind I pictured their faces. Mine gifts we received that Christmas, many Mto my family. While I was would be the only one missing. purchased from stores and carefully growing up, my sister would play the As I pondered, I prayed for a way wrapped and labeled, it was that sweet piano while my five other siblings to feel more connected with the rest song that was most and I gathered around and sang our of my family. Suddenly, the phone precious to us. ◼ favorite Church songs. These times rang, and I found myself speaking are among my fondest memories. to my mother. She told me she had After graduating from high school, something for us to hear. I turned on I lived near my family until I married the speaker phone, and we listened a wonderful man who was stationed as my three younger sisters gathered in our town with the U.S. Air Force. around the family piano and sang the A year and a half later, my husband most beautiful version of “Do You and I, along with our two-month-old Hear What I Hear?” Tears filled daughter, were transferred to a base across the country. We had another child, and with all the expenses that come with two babies, we had not been able to return to visit our fami- lies. With six children still at home, my parents couldn’t afford to visit us either. Living so far away from my family and missing my husband due to his frequent military assignments, I was often subject heir simple to feelings of loneliness. Holidays song brought were especially difficult. Tinto our home On Christmas Eve in 1996, that Christmas Eve while my husband and I were a sweet spirit I will taking part in our traditional always treasure. Christmas Eve activities with our two young children, my thoughts kept turning to my

ILLUSTRATIONS BY DOUG FAKKEL ILLUSTRATIONS parents and siblings. I gazed at baptized on Christmas Eve 1978. That MY BEST evening I received my first and still most cherished Christmas gift: membership in CHRISTMAS GIFT the Lord’s Church. By Ketty Teresa Ortiz de Arismendi Other gifts followed. Two years later I met a young man who was not a was barely two years old when member of the Church. I took him my mother became seriously ill. to church with me, and after I Because she had no one to leave he made his own baptis- me with, she took me with her to mal covenants, we the hospital in Tupiza, Bolivia. She were married. Later died shortly thereafter, leaving Heavenly Father me all alone. blessed my husband During my childhood and and me with three early teenage years, I was children, who were passed from one place to sealed to us for time another, never knowing what it and all eternity in the was like to have a family, never Buenos Aires Argentina receiving any kind of gift—not Temple. even for my birthday or for When I was young, Christmas. everyone called me “the poor Left on my own, I faced a lot of little orphan girl.” When I recall challenges and dangers while grow- this memory today, I feel grate- ing up. It was only later that I learned I ful because I have the blessing of was never really alone and that an invis- knowing that I have a Father, who has ible hand was watching over me. always loved me. I have also tasted of When I was 15, I was invited to the Savior’s infinite love. He restored live with a Latter-day Saint family. hat evening His Church through the Prophet Joseph Their daughter, slightly older than I, I received Smith, who was chosen in the premortal took me to Mutual. Everyone there Tmy first and world and labored diligently to translate welcomed me and paid attention still most cherished the Book of Mormon. I know that it to me. For the first time in my Christmas gift: mem- contains the fulness of the gospel. young life, people treated me bership in the Lord’s I received my first and best with love and kindness. Church. Christmas gift at age 15 and have I was introduced to the mis- enjoyed the Lord’s tender mercies ever sionaries, who began teaching since. I still feel gratitude in my heart for me. Soon I realized that I had a that gift and strive to keep my gaze fixed loving Heavenly Father, who had on the next life, where I hope to thank the protected me throughout my life. Father and the Son and live forever with I accepted the gospel and was my beloved family. ◼

62 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

man extended a welcoming smile, the train at the next stop, touched AN a handshake, and a jolly hello. The by the young man’s kindness. I felt man’s face brightened, and they guilty for my selfishness, but I had UNEXPECTED began a pleasant conversation. a desire to be a better person. LESSON They talked for the next 15 minutes, The King of kings came into the By Erin Wilson enjoying each other’s company. world in the most humble of circum- As I watched, I was reminded stances, in a lowly stable. The world fter making a career move to of the true spirit of the Christmas was given a precious, saving gift— , I was out season. While deeply engaged in the Son of God. I am grateful for the A shopping one December conversation, the young man stood gift of the Savior in my life and for evening for items for my new apart- up and removed his vest, shirt, and the reminder of His infinite love and ment. A storm had recently hit the a second long-sleeve shirt he was compassion for God’s children. That city, and knee-deep snow lined the wearing underneath. Standing in Christmas season, I felt a renewed streets. I was bundled up in a warm his undershirt, he then handed the desire to be down coat as I made my way to the long-sleeve shirt to the homeless kinder, more self- ithout train with a bustling crowd of holiday man. The old man accepted it less, and more hesita- shoppers. graciously, and the two continued like my Savior, Wtion, the I waited impatiently for the train their conversation. I stepped off Jesus Christ. ◼ young man extended to arrive, thinking about my shop- a welcoming smile, ping list. When the train finally a handshake, and a arrived, I stepped onto the car, jolly hello. The man’s scanning the seats for a place to sit. face brightened, and The nearest seat was directly across they began a pleas- from an old homeless man. He had ant conversation. no warm coat or heavy clothing. He just had some plastic bags filled with trinkets. I did not want to sit near his offensive odor, and his rugged appearance made me wonder if he was dangerous. Mostly, I did not want to be hit up for cash. I abruptly walked to the other end of the car and took a seat. All the other passen- gers also filed to the end of the car, leaving the man alone. Soon a young man boarded the train and settled down in the seat directly in front of the homeless man. Without hesitation, the young RANDOM SAMPLER

RANDOM SAMPLER

Christmas.” Each person in the family Christmas budget would be divided OUR BEST would make a $25 gift for another among us and spent the day after family member. On Christmas morn- Christmas when many items go on TRADITION YET ing, we would take turns sharing our sale. This would help our family’s “ ad in charge of Christmas?” gift and expressing our warmest feel- resources go farther. We could get The idea shocked us ings for the recipient. We would do clothes and other items we needed at Dkids, but Mom and Dad this one at a time until everyone had a reduced cost. had already made the decision. It presented his or her gift. The idea We all voted to try this new way all started with their unintended was to try to make gifts that showed for one year. If it was a disappoint- Christmas tradition of fretting about we cared—gifts that expressed love. ment, we could return to the old way. the budget. Mom wanted to have a Some of us children were worried Then we drew names and started “good” Christmas, creating a special about the plan, thinking of all the fun thinking of a personal, handmade gift atmosphere in our home to reflect the things our friends would have that we for that individual. season. She tried to be frugal, buying wouldn’t. That’s when Dad explained How did our experiment go? It discount items in the off-season. But part two of the plan. The rest of the turned out so well that everyone everything added up. Dad insisted that wanted to tell the recipients how much the world shouldn’t dictate to us how they cared for them. We didn’t miss much we spend on Christmas. Besides, the presents under the tree and instead there were expenses for needed items looked forward to shopping the day- that had to be considered first. after sales. We enjoy our new tradition Finally, Mom suggested, “Maybe so much that we now begin drawing you’d like to be in charge of names each summer so we have plenty Christmas this year. You buy the of time to choose and make our secret presents, and let’s see what kind of gifts for our family members. Christmas you can come up with Vaughn C. Emett, Utah for our family.” With a little apprehension, Dad agreed. After pondering a new plan and discussing it with Mom, he announced at family home evening his idea for a “spend-less LEFT: ILLUSTRATION BY JOE FLORES; RIGHT: ILLUSTRATION BY BETH WHITTAKER ILLUSTRATION BY JOE FLORES; RIGHT: ILLUSTRATION LEFT:

64 FAMILY HOME EVENING HELPS in the Savior’s earthly portrayed. The scriptural mission. They might also references on the backs share why a particular of the pictures can be picture and story has per- used to encourage more sonal meaning to them. in-depth discussions. SERVING Of course, this simple As members of the “Picture a Stable . . .” idea can be expanded to Church, we are fortunate WITH STYLE t’s Christmastime the classroom as well. to have a rich supply Iand you’d like to help Pictures from the ward of beautiful artwork to hen my children became your family focus on the library can be used to enhance our gospel adults and left home, I Savior’s life. But perhaps structure an activity in learning and to help us Wprayed to find volunteer you don’t have time to which everyone can invite the Spirit into our work. A nearby care center for the prepare a special lesson. participate. The teacher homes and classrooms. doesn’t do all the Barbara Wren Tuttle, elderly came to mind, but I fought Actually, it has already California the impression because I didn’t like been done for you in the talking; instead he or she leads a going there. The thought continued, Gospel Art Picture Kit (item no. 34730000; U.S. discussion so I met with the center’s recreation $30). All you have to do and provides leader. We determined that I would is select the pictures that transitions as return each week for two hours. depict the Savior’s birth the students Doing what? I didn’t know yet. But and life. Invite family share their the ideas soon came. members to choose a thoughts about The first week I stood in the picture and share what sig- the topics nificance the event played and stories middle of a circle of wheelchairs and helped the residents throw a ball back and forth to each other. Though at home until it was her time to we had purchased, and we bought I felt a bit uncomfortable at first, I go. I’m blessed with this enhanced instead a simple badminton set and was determined to do my best. Soon understanding and reassurance as other items for outdoor fun. If your I was actually having fun. The men I reflect upon my volunteer work finances allow, you could include and women there seemed apprecia- caring for my elderly friends. bikes, basketball and baseball equip- tive of my company. After visiting Peggy Hyer, Utah ment, or other outdoor games that a few weeks, I began giving the encourage an active lifestyle. Gifts women manicures during my two- need not be expensive. Consider giv- hour visits. They were so glad to see FITNESS ing simple gifts such as a jump rope, me each week and lined up to take FOR FAMILIES sidewalk chalk to make a hopscotch turns. I felt so wanted and needed. VDs and video and computer game, a ball, a sled, or a squirt gun The experience was wonderful, and I games—they’re probably on for an outside game of chase. volunteered there for five years. Dyour Christmas wish list. Your Even with new Christmas toys to During this time I became very children would love to watch and play boost their enthusiasm, your children close to several of the residents. them, but have you thought to include will be more likely to play if you join Though it was hard to watch them gifts that encourage exercise fun? the fun. Challenge them to shoot hoops eventually pass away, I was happy for A few years ago my husband and I or play with you, and see how fast they the long lives they had lived. When took stock of our children’s Christmas move! Our children crave our attention, my mother died unexpectedly, I felt gifts and realized there was nothing and we love spending time with them— gratitude, despite my grief, because that would promote physical activ- and getting a bonus workout too. she had been able to care for herself ity. So we returned many of the gifts Sheri Garver, North Carolina

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 65 Certain Women, Walter Rane, My Best Christmas Gift, Ketty Teresa Apr, IBC Ortiz de Arismendi, Dec, 62 Christ Teaching Mary and Martha, Beauchamp, Heather INDEX Anton Dorph, Nov, IFC Carols across the Country, Dec, 61 Christ with Boy, Carl Heinrich Bloch, Beck, Julie B. Mar, OC Fulfilling the Purposes of Relief for Dedication of Russia, Emin Society, Nov, 108 Zulfugarov, Oct, IBC Bednar, David A. First Vision, The, Yvonne L. Harris, Ask in Faith, May, 94 Jan, IFC Pray Always, Nov, 41 Five Wise Virgins, The, Louise Parker, Bingham, Bethany F. 2008 Feb, IBC Cookies and Carols, Dec, 16 God Liveth and Seeth Me, Elspeth BOOK OF MORMON (see also Young, Oct, IFC LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF V OLUME 38 I Moroni, Wander Whitersoever, Jorge MORMON, SCRIPTURES) Cocco, Dec, IFC “. . . And It Came to Pass,” Jan, 40 KEY TO ABBREVIATIONS Joseph and Emma, Rose Datoc Dall, “And Thus We See,” Aug, 40 IBC Inside Back Cover Sep, IFC Because My Father Read the Book of IFC Inside Front Cover Joseph in the Grove, A. D. Shaw, Mormon, Marcos A. Aidukaitis, OC Outside Cover Jan, OC Nov, 15 Joseph, Scott Allred, Jun, IFC Book of Mormon, The, Neil L. Little One, Jay Bryant Ward, Sep, IBC Andersen, Jan, 34 A AGENCY Mansion House, Al Rounds, Feb, IFC Book with a Promise, A, Craig C. Walk in the Light, Henry B. Eyring, My Father’s House, Al Rounds, Christensen, May, 105 AARONIC PRIESTHOOD (see May, 123 Mar, IFC Book with Answers, The, Alessandra PRIESTHOOD) Aidukaitis, Marcos A. Nativity, The, Jon McNaughton, Maria Pereira de Paula, Jan, 72 ABORTION (see also FAMILY, Because My Father Read the Book of Dec, OC From a Small and Simple Invitation, PARENTHOOD) Mormon, Nov, 15 , Myron R. Goodwin, Tom Smith, Dec, 54 Abortion: An Assault on the Alger, Annette Candland Jul, IFC Fruits of the Book of Mormon, Defenseless, Russell M. Nelson, Unplugged, Jan, 56 Praise to the Man, Jon McNaughton, Richard G. Hinckley, June, 68 Oct, 32 Allen, Wanda I. Nov, IBC Power of Two Testimonies, The, ABUSE Grasshoppers, Purple Bathtubs, and Printing of the First Book of Mormon, Kathy Truman, Feb, 73 Hope and Healing in Recovering from Other Surprises, Aug, 52 Gary E. Smith, Jan, OC Where Would I Find Another Book Abuse, Sarah E. Miller, Sep, 36 Allred, Silvia H. Returning to Nauvoo, 1844, David C. of Mormon? Curtis Kleinman, To Heal the Shattering Consequences Go Ye Therefore, Nov, 10 Gaunt, Apr, IFC June, 72 of Abuse, Richard G. Scott, May, 40 Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants, Sacramento California Temple, Boud, Thomas J. ACTIVATION (see CONVERSION, Nov, 112 Sandra Rast, Aug, IBC Energy Drink Epidemic, The, Dec, 48 FELLOWSHIP, MISSIONARY WORK) Amado, Carlos H. Traveling Near the Red Sea, Gary E. Brinley, Douglas E. ACTIVITY, CHURCH Service, a Divine Quality, May, 35 Smith, Jan, IBC Tempering Our Tempers, Feb, 54 “Hi, I’m New,” Josi Kilpack, Sep, 67 Andersen, Neil L. ATONEMENT (see also JESUS BROTHERHOOD (see UNITY) How Could I Get to Church? Alberto Book of Mormon, The, Jan, 34 CHRIST) Burgess, Dean R. Bocca, Jan, 71 Room in the Inn, Dec, 12 Arms of Safety, Jay E. Jensen, Nov, 47 About Their Father’s Business, Making Any Ward “Home,” Kathryn P. You Know Enough, Nov, 13 Atonement at Work, The, Mar, 39 Aug, 66 Fong, Jan, 22 Anderson, Lorna Lee R. Atonement of Jesus Christ, The, Do You Know Who You Are? May, 53 Reaching Out to Belong, Rebecca Encircled in the Arms of His Love, Jeffrey R. Holland, Mar, 32 Burton, H. David Young, June, 64 Mar, 75 Casual Gratitude, Arlene Calkins, Who Is My Neighbor? And, May, 51 What are some ways I can strengthen Anderson, Sharon Price Sep, 54 myself and progress spiritually In Bethlehem, Feb, 10 Service, a Divine Quality, Carlos H. C when my spouse is not supportive ANGELS Amado, May, 35 CAFFEINE (see WORD OF WISDOM) of my Church activity? Sep, 58 Ministry of Angels, The, Jeffrey R. To Heal the Shattering Consequences Calkins, Arlene Adams, Debra L. Holland, Nov, 29 of Abuse, Richard G. Scott, May, 40 Casual Gratitude, Sep, 54 Changing Behavior—One Verse at a O Ye That Embark, Henry B. Eyring, Today, Lance B. Wickman, May, 103 Callister, Douglas L. Time, Feb, 50 Nov, 57 Who Is Jesus Christ? Boyd K. Packer, Our God Truly Is God, Jan, 64 ADDICTION ANGER Mar, 12 Cardon, Craig A. Hope, Healing, and Dealing with Tempering Our Tempers, Douglas E. ATTITUDE Choosing Liberty and Eternal Life, Addiction, Michael D. Gardner, Brinley, Feb, 54 Change and the Virtue of the Word, Feb, 20 July, 50 APOSTLES Keith R. Edwards, July, 54 Carrier, Jessica J. ADOPTION Twelve, The, Boyd K. Packer, May, 83 Finding Joy in the Journey, Thomas S. Reinforcing Our Seams, June, 58 Abortion: An Assault on the Archuleta, Peggy Ollerton Monson, Nov, 84 Caussé, Gérald Defenseless, Russell M. Nelson, Exquisite Joy of Repentance, The, Even a Child Can Understand, Oct, 32 June, 34 B Nov, 32 Why Adoption? Rebecca M. Taylor, ART BALANCE CHARITY (see also COMPASSION, Jan, 46 “. . . And It Came to Pass,” Jan, 40 Living a Balanced Life, Robert F. LOVE, SERVICE) ADVERSITY (see also COMFORT) “And Thus We See,” Aug, 40 Orton, Feb, 64 Come to Zion, D. Todd About Trauma, Claigh H. Jensen, By Divine Design, Apr, 40 Ballard, M. Russell Christofferson, Nov, 37 Feb, 49 I Remember Joseph, Dec, 40 Daughters of God, May, 108 CHASTITY Abundantly Blessed, Thomas S. Living Christ: The Testimony of the Sharing the Gospel Using the My Soul Delighteth in the Things Monson, May, 111 Apostles of The Church of Jesus Internet, July, 58 of the Lord, Susan W. Tanner, Becoming Spiritually Whole, Shari Christ of Latter-day Saints, The, Truth of God Shall Go Forth, The, May, 81 Phippen, Dec, 34 Mar, 42 Nov, 81 Child, Sheldon F. Call from the Hospital, A, June, 51 Pray Always, Oct, 40 Ballard, M. Russell and Dieter F. Best Investment, The, May, 79 Come What May, and Love It, Joseph Time of Harvest, A, Sep, 40 Uchtdorf CHILDREN (see also FAMILY, B. Wirthlin, Nov, 26 Watch, Some Buttons, and Joseph’s Tending the Flock: Teaching PARENTHOOD) Helping Children Cope with Cloak, A, Sally Johnson Odekirk, Leadership Skills to Youth, June, 16 Even a Child Can Understand, Traumatic Situations, Janele July, 38 Banz, Christy Rusch Gérald Caussé, Nov, 32 Williams, Feb, 46 ART (COVERS) I Know That My Redeemer Lives, Helping Children Cope with “Hope Ya Know, We Had a Hard Allegory of the Olive Tree, The, Brad Mar, 76 Traumatic Situations, Janele Time,” Quentin L. Cook, Nov, 102 Teare, Jun, IBC BAPTISM (see also PRIESTHOOD) Williams, Feb, 46 In the Path of the Tornado, Karen And My Soul Hungered, Al R. Young, Come unto Christ, Henry B. Eyring, Joy of Nurturing Children, The, Stotts Myatt, Apr, 54 Aug, IFC Mar, 48 Apr, 34 Looking to the Lord, Mary N. Cook, Baby Jesus, The, Jeremy Winborg, Finding What Was Missing, Michael R. CHOICE AND ACCOUNTABILITY Sep, 62 Dec, IBC Morris, Oct, 16 (see AGENCY) May We So Live, Thomas S. Monson, Bronze Statue of Samuel H. Smith, Gospel of Jesus Christ, The, L. Tom CHURCH HISTORY (see HISTORY, Aug, 4 Dee Jay Bawden, Jul, IBC Perry, May, 44 CHURCH)

66 Christensen, Craig C. COOK, QUENTIN L. DISCOURAGEMENT Book with a Promise, A, May, 105 Elder Quentin L. Cook: A Willing Happiness, Your Heritage, Dieter F. CHRISTMAS Heart and Mind, Jeffrey R. Uchtdorf, Nov, 117 Best Christmas Ever, The, Thomas S. Holland, Apr, 18 Infinite Power of Hope, The, Dieter F. Monson, Dec, 4 Cook, Quentin L. Uchtdorf, Nov, 21 My Best Christmas Gift, Ketty Teresa Be a Missionary All Your Life, Sep, 44 DIVERSITY Ortiz de Arismendi, Dec, 62 Elder D. Todd Christofferson: Prepared Concern for the One, Joseph B. Room in the Inn, Neil L. Andersen, to Serve the Lord, Aug, 10 Wirthlin, May, 17 Dec, 12 Give Heed unto the Prophets’ DIVINE NATURE Three Christmas Stories: Cookies Words, May, 47 All Human Beings Are Created in the and Carols, Bethany F. Bingham, “Hope Ya Know, We Had a Hard Image of God, July, 57 Dec, 16 Time,” Nov, 102 Do You Know Who You Are? Dean R. Three Christmas Stories: In Corbridge, Lawrence E. Burgess, May, 53 Shepherd’s Field, Annie Tintle, The Way, Nov, 34 Each Sister Is a Beloved Daughter of Dec, 19 Costa, Claudio R. M. Heavenly Parents and Has a Divine Three Christmas Stories: Small, Gather to the Temple, Dec, 20 Destiny, Aug, 69 Snow-Covered Tree, A, Darrell Coston, Kandyce Our God Truly Is God, Douglas L. Smart, Dec, 18 Everything Will Be Fine, Oct, 63 Callister, Jan, 64 Unexpected Lesson, An, Erin Wilson, COURAGE Remember Who You Are, Apr, 44 Dec, 63 At All Times, in All Things, and in Your Divine Heritage, Robert C. Oaks, What Little We Had Was Enough, All Places, Elaine S. Dalton, Apr, 46 Sueli de Aquino, Dec, 60 May, 116 DOCTRINE CHRISTOFFERSON, D. TODD Christian Courage: The Price of Gospel Doctrines: Anchors to Our Elder D. Todd Christofferson: Discipleship, Robert D. Hales, Souls, Marlin K. Jensen, Oct, 58 Prepared to Serve the Lord, Nov, 72 DUTY Quentin L. Cook, Aug, 10 Examples of Righteousness, Thomas To Learn, to Do, to Be, Thomas S. Christofferson, D. Todd S. Monson, May, 65 Monson, Nov, 60 Becoming a Witness of Christ, Mar, 58 One among the Crowd, Dennis B. Dyches, Jill Dudley Born Again, May, 76 Neuenschwander, May, 101 In Search of Mary Dudley, June, 37 Come to Zion, Nov, 37 We Will Not Yield, We Cannot Yield, COMFORT (see also ADVERSITY) W. Craig Zwick, May, 97 E Becoming Spiritually Whole, Shari COVENANTS EDUCATION (see also LEARNING, Phippen, Dec, 34 Come unto Christ, Henry B. Eyring, TEACHING) Call from the Hospital, A, June, 51 Mar, 48 Help and Hope in Washington, D.C., Concern for the One, Joseph B. Do You Know Who You Are? Dean R. Michael R. Morris, Apr, 28 Wirthlin, May, 17 Burgess, May, 53 Edwards, David A. Encircled in the Arms of His Love, Faith and the Oath and Covenant of “I Am the Way,” Mar, 20 Lorna Lee R. Anderson, Mar, 75 the Priesthood, Henry B. Eyring, Edwards, Keith R. Everything Will Be Fine, Kandyce May, 61 Change and the Virtue of the Word, Coston, Oct, 63 Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants, July, 54 Finding Comfort in King Benjamin’s Silvia H. Allred, Nov, 112 ENCOURAGEMENT Counsel, Amanda LeSueur, Aug, 25 CREATIVITY Lift Where You Stand, Dieter F. Spiders and Spiritual Help, Don L. Happiness, Your Heritage, Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Nov, 53 Searle, Feb, 19 Uchtdorf, Nov, 117 ETERNAL LIFE (see EXALTATION) COMMITMENT CRUCIFIXION (see ATONEMENT, Eubanks, Irene Faith in His Step and a Song in His JESUS CHRIST) Putting My Marriage before My Pride, Heart, Deirdre M. Paulsen, July, 24 CURRICULUM Jan, 33 COMPASSION (see also CHARITY, Aaronic Priesthood and Young EXALTATION LOVE, SERVICE) Women Resource Guides, May, 127 Gospel of Jesus Christ, The, L. Tom Faith of Our Father, Dieter F. Teachings for Our Time, May, 127; Perry, May, 44 Uchtdorf, May, 68 Nov, 121 Salvation and Exaltation, Russell M. Happiness, Your Heritage, Dieter F. Nelson, May, 7 Uchtdorf, Nov, 117 D Until We Meet Again, Thomas S. Condie, Spencer J. Dalton, Elaine S. Monson, Nov, 106 Living by the Light of Christ, Dec, 56 At All Times, in All Things, and in All EXAMPLE CONFIDENCE Places, May, 116 Bucketful of Love, A, Norma Ramos How can I stand up in the workplace Return to Virtue, A, Nov, 78 de Oliveira, Mar, 80 for what I believe without seeming Dastrup, Becky Christian Courage: The Price of self-righteous or judgmental? Other Part of Forgiveness, The, Discipleship, Robert D. Hales, Dec, 44 Dec, 53 Nov, 72 CONSECRATION DATING (see also MARRIAGE) Examples of Righteousness, Thomas Consecrate Thy Performance, Neal A. Dating and the Eternal Perspective, S. Monson, May, 65 Maxwell, Dec, 26 Kimberly Reid, Feb, 60 How can I stand up in the workplace CONVERSION (see also ACTIVA- Making the Most of Our Single Years, for what I believe without seeming TION, FELLOWSHIP, MISSIONARY Russell Stevenson, Aug, 26 self-righteous or judgmental? WORK) Preparing Yourself for Marriage, Eric Dec, 44 Coming to Church, Becoming B. Shumway, Oct, 54 I’m a Latter-day Saint, Luz Yesenia Converted, Dale M. Valentine, Davis, Sandi Moreno Rivera, Mar, 80 Sep, 50 By Their Fruits, Aug, 32 It All Began with You, Tom Roughley, Coming to Know for Ourselves, de Aquino, Sueli Jan, 19 Kenneth Johnson, July, 28 What Little We Had Was Enough, Lift Where You Stand, Dieter F. Experiencing a Change of Heart, Keith Dec, 60 Uchtdorf, Nov, 53 K. Hilbig, June, 29 de Arismendi, Ketty Teresa Ortiz My Father, My Hero, Greg Hudnall, Finding My Faith, Joshua J. Perkey, My Best Christmas Gift, Dec, 62 Sep,16 Oct, 10 de la Maza, Jenny Piderit Now Let Us Rejoice, Barbara Finding What Was Missing, Michael R. I Do My Part, and God Does the Thompson, Nov, 114 Morris, Oct, 16 Rest, Sep, 52 Restoring Faith in the Family, Kenneth My Answer at the Door, Victor L. de Oliveira, Norma Ramos Johnson, May, 15 Harris, Dec, 31 Bucketful of Love, A, Mar, 80 To Learn, to Do, to Be, Thomas S. Righteous Traditions, Cheryl C. Lant, DEATH (see ADVERSITY, Monson, Nov, 60 May, 13 COMFORT) Unexpected Lesson, An, Erin Wilson, Cook, Mary N. Dickson, John B. Dec, 63 Anchors of Testimony, May, 120 After the Manner of Happiness, Way, The, Lawrence E. Corbridge, Looking to the Lord, Sep, 62 Feb, 14 Nov, 34

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 67 EYRING, HENRY B. Joy of Nurturing Children, The, Three Presiding High Priests, Pray Always, David A. Bednar, President Henry B. Eyring: Called of Apr, 34 William R. Walker, May, 37 Nov, 41 God, Robert D. Hales, July, 8 Love, Limits, and Latitude, Craig H. FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE True and Living Church, The, Henry Eyring, Henry B. Hart, Lloyd D. Newell, and Julie Be One, Henry B. Eyring, Sep, 4 B. Eyring, May, 20 Be One, Sep, 4 H. Haupt, Aug, 60 Best Christmas Ever, The, Thomas S. GROWTH, CHURCH Come unto Christ, Mar, 48 My Soul Delighteth in the Things Monson, Dec, 4 Truth of God Shall Go Forth, The, M. Faith and the Oath and Covenant of of the Lord, Susan W. Tanner, Developing Christlike Attributes, Russell Ballard, Nov, 81 the Priesthood, May, 61 May, 81 Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Oct, 4 Welcome to Conference, Thomas S. Feeding His Lambs, Feb, 4 President Henry B. Eyring: Called of Feeding His Lambs, Henry B. Eyring, Monson, Nov, 4 O Ye That Embark, Nov, 57 God, Robert D. Hales, July, 8 Feb, 4 Gudmundson, Brian Our Hearts Knit as One, Nov, 68 Protecting Our Families in the Last Heeding the Voice of the Prophets, Questions, the Heart of Learning and Safety in Counsel, June, 4 Days, Richard J. Maynes, Oct, 50 Dieter F. Uchtdorf, July, 4 Teaching, Jan, 26 Sustaining of Church Officers, The, Restoring Faith in the Family, Master Bridge Builder, The, Thomas Nov, 25 Kenneth Johnson, May, 15 S. Monson, Jan, 4 H True and Living Church, The, May, 20 Righteous Traditions, Cheryl C. Lant, May We So Live, Thomas S. Monson, Hagenbuch, Penny Walk in the Light, May, 123 May, 13 Aug, 4 It Started with Girls’ Camp and an Salvation and Exaltation, Russell M. Safety in Counsel, Henry B. Eyring, Ensign, June, 15 F Nelson, May, 7 June, 4 HALE, EMMA Fairbanks, Sandi Matlock Temple Blessings in a Part-Member Treasure of Eternal Value, Thomas S. Joseph and Emma’s Family, Feb, 39 Lines, Levels, and Living the Gospel, Family, Kay Przybille, Dec, 23 Monson, Apr, 4 Hales, Robert D. Oct, 15 Unplugged, Annette Candland We Testify of Jesus Christ, Gordon B. Christian Courage: The Price of FAITH Alger, Jan, 56 Hinckley, Mar, 4 Discipleship, Nov, 72 Ask in Faith, David A. Bednar, Why Adoption? Rebecca M. Taylor, Fong, Kathryn P. Gaining a Testimony of God the May, 94 Jan, 46 Making Any Ward “Home,” Jan, 22 Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and At All Times, in All Things, and in All FAMILY HISTORY FORGIVENESS the Holy Ghost, May, 29 Places, Elaine S. Dalton, May, 116 Family History Reflections, Stephen How Could She Forgive Him? Thomas Modesty: Reverence for the Lord, Developing Christlike Attributes, C. Young, Sep, 69 E. Horlacher, Apr, 71 Aug, 34 Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Oct, 4 I Didn’t Give Up, Carlos A. Del Lesson from a Milk Jug, July, 48 President Henry B. Eyring: Called of Emilio’s Faith, Ramon Ramirez, Longo, Sep, 68 Other Part of Forgiveness, The, Becky God, July, 8 Mar, 31 In Search of Mary Dudley, Jill Dudley Dastrup, Dec, 53 Hamula, James J. Faith in Jesus Christ, Russell M. Dyches, June, 37 Stand Ye in Holy Places, Harold B. Winning the War against Evil, Nov, 50 Nelson, Mar, 24 Searching in Finland, Judith Ann Lee, Oct, 44 HAPPINESS Faith of Our Father, Dieter F. Larunen McNeil, Sep, 70 FREE AGENCY (see AGENCY) After the Manner of Happiness, John Uchtdorf, May, 68 Starting from Scratch, Constance FRIENDSHIP (see FELLOWSHIP) B. Dickson, Feb, 14 Finding My Faith, Joshua J. Perkey, Palmer Lewis, Feb, 42 Single and Steadfast: Lessons in Oct, 10 FAMILY HOME EVENING G Hope, Christine S. Packard and Fulfilling the Purposes of Relief Conference Family Home Evening Gardner, Michael D. Wendy Ulrich, Aug, 20 Society, Julie B. Beck, Nov, 108 Idea, Natalie Greaves, Apr, 75 Hope, Healing, and Dealing with Harris, Victor L. Lord Can Ease Our Burdens, The, Family Fun with the Articles of Faith, Addiction, July, 50 My Answer at the Door, Dec, 31 Maury W. Schoof, Oct, 29 Suzanne Ferrin, Jan, 75 Garrett, Kimberlee B. Hart, Craig H., Lloyd D. Newell, One among the Crowd, Dennis B. From the Heart, Gail Porter, Feb, 75 Why Did the Lord Call Me? Oct, 22 and Julie H. Haupt Neuenschwander, May, 101 Helping Children Remember Him, Gaunt, LaRene Porter and Robert Love, Limits, and Latitude, Aug, 60 Pray Always, David A. Bednar, Sep, 67 A. Smith Haupt, Julie H., Craig H. Hart, and Nov, 41 Military Mail, Jennifer Hansen, Samuel H. Smith, Aug, 44 Lloyd D. Newell President Dieter F. Uchtdorf: A Family June, 75 Gaverret, Eduardo Love, Limits, and Latitude, Aug, 60 Man, a Man of Faith, a Man “Picture a Stable...” Barbara Wren Returning Home, Nov, 98 HEALING (see also COMFORT) Foreordained, Russell M. Nelson, Tuttle, Dec, 65 GENDER Emilio’s Faith, Ramon Ramirez, July, 16 Planning Your Family Home Evening, Gender Is an Essential Characteristic Mar, 31 Special Experiences, Ronald A. Melinda Hunter, July, 75 of Eternal Identity and Purpose, Hope and Healing in Recovering from Rasband, May, 11 Roommates 101, Nathan Justis, Oct, 67 Abuse, Sarah E. Miller, Sep, 36 You Know Enough, Neil L. Andersen, Aug, 75 GENEALOGY (see FAMILY HIS- Hope, Healing, and Dealing with Nov, 13 Supplementing Family Home TORY) Addiction, Michael D. Gardner, FAMILY (see also CHILDREN, Evening, Sharlene T. Barber, GENERAL CONFERENCE July, 50 MOTHERHOOD, PARENTHOOD) Oct, 73 Conference Experiences, May, 143 My Answer at the Door, Victor L. Abundantly Blessed, Thomas S. What Parents Have Learned from Finding Answers from Conference, Harris, Dec, 31 Monson, May, 111 Family Home Evening, July, 34 Apr, 24 Spiritual Component of Healing, The, Armor of Battle, Armor of God, FAST OFFERINGS Living Prophets Spoke to Me, Oct, 53 Alexander B. Morrison, June, 46 June, 24 Muchacho’s Mite, The, Natalie Ross, Until We Meet Again, Thomas S. Stand Ye in Holy Places, Harold B. By Divine Design, Apr, 40 July, 72 Monson, Nov, 106 Lee, Oct, 44 , Russell M. Nelson, God Loves and Helps All of His GENEROSITY (see HUMANITARIAN To Heal the Shattering Consequences Nov, 92 Children, Keith B. McMullin, AID) of Abuse, Richard G. Scott, May, 40 Daddy Sunday, Damian Idiart, Nov, 75 GIFTS HEALTH (see WORD OF WISDOM) Apr, 33 FATHERHOOD (see CHILDREN, Best Christmas Ever, The, Thomas S. HERITAGE (see also HISTORY, Daughters of God, M. Russell FAMILY, PARENTHOOD) Monson, Dec, 4 CHURCH) Ballard, May, 108 FELLOWSHIP (see also CONVER- What Little We Had Was Enough, Faith of Our Father, Dieter F. Elder Quentin L. Cook: A Willing SION, MISSIONARY WORK) Sueli de Aquino, Dec, 60 Uchtdorf, May, 68 Heart and Mind, Jeffrey R. Holland, Cultivating Sensitivity to Others, GODHEAD (see also JESUS Looking Back and Moving Forward, Apr, 18 Andrea Worthington Snarr, CHRIST, HOLY GHOST) Thomas S. Monson, May, 87 Faith and the Oath and Covenant of June, 59 Gaining a Testimony of God the Treasure of Eternal Value, Thomas S. the Priesthood, Henry B. Eyring, Feeding His Lambs, Henry B. Eyring, Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and Monson, Apr, 4 May, 61 Feb, 4 the Holy Ghost, Robert D. Hales, Your Divine Heritage, Robert C. Oaks, Family Faith, Kimberly Reid, Aug, 54 Reaching Out to Belong, Rebecca May, 29 Apr, 46 Family Is Central to the Creator’s Young, June, 64 Godoy, Carlos A. Hilbig, Keith K Plan, The, Feb, 69 Returning Home, Eduardo Testimony as a Process, Nov, 100 Experiencing a Change of Heart, Finally My Mother Wanted to Know, Gavarret, Nov, 98 Golden, Christoffel Jr. June, 29 Treasure Elder Barfuss, Apr, 70 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Lord’s Pattern for Peace, The, Apr, 58 Hilton, John III Fulfilling the Purposes of Relief Church Auditing Department GOSPEL CLASSICS Have Ye Inquired of the Lord? Society, Julie B. Beck, Nov, 108 Report, 2007, Robert W. Cantwell, Consecrate Thy Performance, Neal A. Oct, 38 Give Heed unto the Prophets’ Words, May, 24 Maxwell, Dec, 26 HINCKLEY, GORDON B. Quentin L. Cook, May, 47 Happily Living within Our Means, Stand Ye in Holy Places, Harold B. In Memoriam: President Gordon B. Heeding the Voice of the Prophets, Jan, 58 Lee, Oct, 44 Hinckley (1910-2008), March Dieter F. Uchtdorf, July, 4 FIRST PRESIDENCY GRATITUDE Supplement, 2–32 I Know That My Redeemer Lives, Maintaining the Course, Adam C. Finding Joy in the Journey, Thomas S. Hinckley, Gordon B. Christy Rusch Banz, Mar, 76 Olson, Apr, 10 Monson, Nov, 84 We Testify of Jesus Christ, Mar, 4

68 Hinckley, Richard G. You Know Enough, Neil L. Andersen, Jones, Robb Fruits of the Book of Mormon, Nov, 13 Chalk It Up to Learning, Sep, 29 June, 68 INTERNET JOURNALS (see also FAMILY HIS- HISTORY, CHURCH Sharing the Gospel Using the TORY) Samuel H. Smith, LaRene Porter Internet, M. Russell Ballard, Mom’s Journal, Edna F. Chandler, Gaunt and Robert A. Smith, Aug, 44 July, 58 Sep, 71 Test, The, Boyd K. Packer, Nov, 88 My Journal, My Testimony, Salli Truth of God Shall Go Forth, The, M. J Hollenzer, Apr, 51 Russell Ballard, Nov, 81 Jackson, Karie Lyne Judd, Daniel K Holland, Jeffrey R. Ethel and Edna, Apr, 65 Men of a Sound Understanding, Atonement of Jesus Christ, The, Jensen, Claigh H. Sep, 32 Mar, 32 About Trauma, Feb, 49 Elder Quentin L. Cook: A Willing Jensen, Jay E. K Heart and Mind, Apr, 18 Arms of Safety, Nov, 47 Kassinen, Pirkko Ministry of Angels, The, Nov, 29 Power of Diligent Learning, The, Faith to Stop a Flood, Oct, 65 “My Words . . . Never Cease,” May, 91 Sep, 24 KNOWLEDGE (see also EDUCA- President Thomas S. Monson: In the Prophet Joseph Smith, an Extraordinary TION, LEARNING) Footsteps of the Master, June Teacher, The, Jan, 12 Even a Child Can Understand, Gérald Supplement, 2 Jensen, Marlin K. Caussé, Nov, 32 Hollenzer, Salli Gospel Doctrines: Anchors to Our Testimony, Dallin H. Oaks, May, 26 My Journal, My Testimony, Apr, 51 Souls, Oct, 58 HOLY GHOST (see also GODHEAD) JESUS CHRIST (see also ATONE- L Be One, Henry B. Eyring, Sep, 4 MENT, GODHEAD) Lant, Cheryl C. Feeding His Lambs, Henry B. Eyring, At All Times, in All Things, and in Righteous Traditions, May, 13 Feb, 4 All Places, Elaine S. Dalton, LAST DAYS In the Shadow of His Wings, Paul B. May, 116 Protecting Our Families in the Last Hatch, July, 71 Atonement of Jesus Christ, The, Days, Richard J. Maynes, Oct, 50 “My Words . . . Never Cease,” Jeffrey Jeffrey R. Holland, Mar, 32 Winning the War against Evil, James J. R. Holland, May, 91 Becoming a Witness of Christ, D. Hamula, Nov, 50 Opening Our Hearts, Gerald N. Todd Christofferson, Mar, 58 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES Lund, May, 32 Developing Christlike Attributes, Book with Answers, The, Alessandra Power of Diligent Learning, The, Jay Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Oct, 4 Maria Pereira de Paula, Jan, 72 E. Jensen, Sep, 24 Did Jesus Really Visit the Americas? Carols across the Country, Heather Power of Light and Truth, The, Robert Carlos René Romero, July, 73 Beauchamp, Dec, 61 R. Steuer, May, 99 Faith in Jesus Christ, Russell M. Courage to Ask a Question, Lai Spiritual Promptings, Sep, 18 Nelson, Mar, 24 Chang Hui-Ling, Feb, 70 Stand as a Witness, Susan W. Tanner, Gaining a Testimony of God the Did Jesus Really Visit the Americas? May, 113 Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and Carlos René Romero, July, 73 Testimony, Dallin H. Oaks, May, 26 the Holy Ghost, Robert D. Hales, Did I Really Know? Justin Walk in the Light, Henry B. Eyring, May, 29 Geracitano, Aug, 73 May, 123 He Lives! The Witness of Latter-day Encircled in the Arms of His Love, HOME (see FAMILY, PARENT- Prophets, Mar, 8 Lorna Lee R. Anderson, Mar, 75 HOOD) Hope and Healing in Recovering from Everything Will Be Fine, Kandyce HOPE (see also FAITH, COMFORT) Abuse, Sarah E. Miller, Sep, 36 Coston, Oct, 63 Infinite Power of Hope, The, Dieter F. “I Am the Way,” David A. Edwards, Faith to Stop a Flood, Pirkko Uchtdorf, Nov, 21 Mar, 20 Kassinen, Oct, 65 Jesus Christ Is the Light, Life, and Jesus Christ Is the Light, Life, and Family History Reflections, Stephen C. Hope of the World, Dec, 59 Hope of the World, Dec, 59 Young, Sep, 69 HOSPITALITY Jesus Christ Taught the Purpose of Finally My Mother Wanted to Know, Room in the Inn, Neil L. Andersen, Our Life on Earth, Jan, 69 Treasure Elder Barfuss, Apr, 70 Dec, 12 Lift Where You Stand, Dieter F. Golden Contact I Couldn’t Hudnall, Greg Uchtdorf, Nov, 53 Remember, The, Perry W. Carter, My Father, My Hero, Sep,16 Living Christ: The Testimony of the Aug, 71 HUMANITARIAN AID Apostles of The Church of Jesus How Could I Get to Church? Alberto Who Is My Neighbor? And, H. David Christ of Latter-day Saints, The, Bocca, Jan, 71 Burton, May, 51 Mar, 42 How Could She Forgive Him? Thomas HUMILITY Master Bridge Builder, The, Thomas E. Horlacher, Apr, 71 Born Again, D. Todd Christofferson, S. Monson, Jan, 4 How I Found Christ in Capernaum, May, 76 May We So Live, Thomas S. Monson, Jason Jones, Apr, 72 Our Hearts Knit as One, Henry B. Aug, 4 Hymn in a Cathedral, Collin Allan, Eyring, Nov, 68 One among the Crowd, Dennis B. Aug, 70 HYMNS (see also MUSIC) Neuenschwander, May, 101 I Didn’t Give Up, Carlos A. Del Families Can Be Together Forever, Service, a Divine Quality, Carlos H. Longo, Sep, 68 Carolyn Rusch, June, 22 Amado, May, 35 I Had Faith but No Money, Teódulo Healing Power of Hymns, The, Apr, 66 Stand as a Witness, Susan W. Tanner, Troconiz, Oct, 62 Hymn in a Cathedral, Collin Allan, May, 113 I Know That My Redeemer Lives, Aug, 70 Three Christmas Stories: In Christy Rusch Banz, Mar, 76 Worship through the Hymns, Mar, 64 Shepherd’s Field, Annie Tintle, I Needed a Blessing, Yves Raoelina, Dec, 19 Feb, 72 I 12-Year-Old Deacon, A, John M. In the Shadow of His Wings, Paul B. Idiart, Damian Madsen, May, 55 Hatch, July, 71 Daddy Sunday, Apr, 33 Way, The, Lawrence E. Corbridge, Loaves and Testimonies, Vida H. INSPIRATION (see also SPIRITUALITY) Nov, 34 Liddell, Aug, 72 Loaves and Testimonies, Vida H. We Believe, Mar, 54 Mom’s Journal, Edna F. Chandler, Liddell, Aug, 72 We Testify of Jesus Christ, Gordon B. Sep, 71 My Remarkable Dream, Jeffrey S. Hinckley, Mar, 4 Muchacho’s Mite, The, Natalie Ross, Rowe, Oct, 64 Who Is Jesus Christ? Boyd K. Packer, July, 72 Samaritan with a Screwdriver, Heidi Mar, 12 My Best Christmas Gift, Ketty Teresa Bartle, July, 70 Why Did the Lord Call Me? Kimberlee Ortiz de Arismendi, Dec, 62 Spiritual Promptings, Sep, 18 B. Garrett, Oct, 22 My Children’s Prayer, Virginia Warning Voice, A, Sandra Gates, Johnson, Kenneth Augusta de Padua Lima Pereira, Feb, 71 Coming to Know for Ourselves, June, 73 Why Was I Awake at 3:00 A.M.? Stan July, 28 My Remarkable Dream, Jeffrey S. Byrd, Jan, 70 Restoring Faith in the Family, May, 15 Rowe, Oct, 64

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 69 My Unexpected Easter Feast, LeSueur, Amanda MILITARY Something I Wasn’t Expecting, Marianne Monson, Mar, 77 Finding Comfort in King Benjamin’s Armor of Battle, Armor of God, Aubrey Williams, Jan, 73 Power of Two Testimonies, The, Kathy Counsel, Aug, 25 June, 24 Three Christmas Stories: Cookies Truman, Feb, 73 Lewis, Constance Palmer Military Mail, Jennifer Hansen, and Carols, Bethany F. Bingham, Samaritan with a Screwdriver, Heidi Starting from Scratch, Feb, 42 June, 75 Dec, 16 Bartle, July, 70 LIGHT OF CHRIST (see also JESUS Today, Lance B. Wickman, May, 103 Myatt, Karen Stotts Savior’s Saving Hand, The, Scott CHRIST) Miller, Sarah E. In the Path of the Tornado, Apr, 54 McCoy, Mar, 78 Living by the Light of Christ, Spencer Hope and Healing in Recovering from Searching in Finland, Judith Ann J. Condie, Dec, 56 Abuse, Sep, 36 N Larunen McNeil, Sep, 70 Power of Light and Truth, The, MISSIONARY WORK (see also CON- Nash, Marcus B. Something I Wasn’t Expecting, Robert R. Steuer, May, 99 VERSION, FELLOWSHIP) Cultivating Righteousness, Aug, 29 Aubrey Williams, Jan, 73 Walk in the Light, Henry B. Eyring, Be a Missionary All Your Life, Quentin NECESSITIES Unexpected Lesson, An, Erin Wilson, May, 123 L. Cook, Sep, 44 Let Him Do It with Simplicity, L. Tom Dec, 63 LISTENING By Their Fruits, Sandi Davis, Aug, 32 Perry, Nov, 7 Warning Voice, A, Sandra Gates, Best Part of the Lesson, The, Kim Courage to Ask a Question, Lai Nelson, Russell M. Feb, 71 Woodbury, Aug, 16 Chang Hui-Ling, Feb, 70 Abortion: An Assault on the Week to Go until Payday, A, Julie C. LOVE (see also CHARITY, COMPAS- Finding What Was Missing, Michael R. Defenseless, Oct, 32 Donaldson, June, 71 SION, SERVICE) Morris, Oct, 16 Celestial Marriage, Nov, 92 What I Like Best about Church, Abundantly Blessed, Thomas S. From a Small and Simple Invitation, Faith in Jesus Christ, Mar, 24 Isabelle Alpert, June, 70 Monson, May, 111 Tom Smith, Dec, 54 President Dieter F. Uchtdorf: A Family What Little We Had Was Enough, Helping Children Cope with Go Ye Therefore, Silvia H. Allred, Man, a Man of Faith, a Man Sueli de Aquino, Dec, 60 Traumatic Situations, Janele Nov, 10 Foreordained, July, 16 Where Would I Find Another Book Williams, Feb, 46 Golden Contact I Couldn’t Salvation and Exaltation, May, 7 of Mormon? Curtis Kleinman, “My Dear and Beloved Companion”: Remember, The, Perry W. Carter, Neuenschwander, Dennis B. June, 72 The Letters of Joseph and Emma Aug, 71 One among the Crowd, May, 101 Why Was I Awake at 3:00 A.M.? Stan Smith, Carol Cornwall Madsen, It All Began with You, Tom Roughley, Newell, Lloyd D., Craig H. Hart, Byrd, Jan, 70 Sep, 10 Jan, 19 and Julie H. Haupt LAUGHTER Treasure of Eternal Value, Thomas S. It Started with Girls’ Camp and Love, Limits, and Latitude, Aug, 60 Come What May, and Love It, Joseph Monson, Apr, 4 an Ensign, Penny Hagenbuch, NEWS OF THE CHURCH B. Wirthlin, Nov, 26 LOYALTY June, 15 Jan, 76; Feb, 76; Apr, 76; June, 76; LEADERSHIP, CHURCH President Thomas S. Monson: In the Sharing the Gospel Using the July, 76; Aug, 76; Sep, 72; Oct, 74; General Authorities of The Church of Footsteps of the Master, Jeffrey R. Internet, M. Russell Ballard, July, 58 Nov, 125; Dec, 74 Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Holland, June Supplement, 2 Truth of God Shall Go Forth, The, M. NURTURING May, 72; Nov, 64 Lund, Gerald N. Russell Ballard, Nov, 81 My Soul Delighteth in the Things of General Auxiliary Presidencies, Opening Our Hearts, May, 32 MODESTY the Lord, Susan W. Tanner, May, 81 May, 130; Nov, 125 Lynn, Jennifer A. Anchors of Testimony, Mary N. Cook, Maintaining the Course, Adam C. Primary Songs Blessed Me, Sep, 55 May, 120 O Olson, Apr, 10 Modesty: Reverence for the Lord, Oaks, Dallin H. Three Presiding High Priests, William M Robert D. Hales, Aug, 34 Sacrament Meeting and the R. Walker, May, 37 Madsen, Carol Cornwall Return to Virtue, A, Elaine S. Dalton, Sacrament, Nov, 17 LEADERSHIP “My Dear and Beloved Companion”: Nov, 78 Testimony, May, 26 Life-Changing Leadership, Feb, 23 The Letters of Joseph and Emma We Will Not Yield, We Cannot Yield, Oaks, Robert C. LEARNING (see also EDUCATION, Smith, Sep, 10 W. Craig Zwick, May, 97 Your Divine Heritage, Apr, 46 KNOWLEDGE, TEACHING) Madsen, John M. Monson, Marianne OBEDIENCE Power of Diligent Learning, The, Jay 12-Year-Old Deacon, A, May, 55 My Unexpected Easter Feast, Mar, 77 Anchors of Testimony, Mary N. Cook, E. Jensen, Sep, 24 MAGAZINES, CHURCH MONSON, THOMAS S. May, 120 Questions, the Heart of Learning and Making Church Magazines, July, 64 President Thomas S. Monson: In the At All Times, in All Things, and in All Teaching, Brian Gudmundson, My Neighbor’s Magazine, Laura Footsteps of the Master, Jeffrey R. Places, Elaine S. Dalton, May, 116 Jan, 26 Pilcher, Sep, 35 Holland, June Supplement, 2 Best Investment, The, Sheldon F. To Learn, to Do, to Be, Thomas S. MARRIAGE Monson, Thomas S. Child, May, 79 Monson, Nov, 60 Be One, Henry B. Eyring, Sep, 4 Abundantly Blessed, May, 111 Developing Christlike Attributes, Lee, Harold B. Celestial Marriage, Russell M. Nelson, Best Christmas Ever, The, Dec, 4 Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Oct, 4 Stand Ye in Holy Places, Oct, 44 Nov, 92 Examples of Righteousness, May, 65 How Could I Get to Church? Alberto LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF Dating and the Eternal Perspective, Finding Joy in the Journey, Nov, 84 Bocca, Jan, 71 MORMON Kimberly Reid, Feb, 60 Looking Back and Moving Forward, Master Bridge Builder, The, Thomas About Their Father’s Business, Dean Marriage between a Man and a May, 87 S. Monson, Jan, 4 R. Burgess, Aug, 66 Woman Is Ordained of God, Apr, 64 Master Bridge Builder, The, Jan, 4 Obedience: The First Law of Heaven, After the Manner of Happiness, John “My Dear and Beloved Companion”: May We So Live, Aug, 4 William D. Oswald, Jan, 10 B. Dickson, Feb, 14 The Letters of Joseph and Emma To Learn, to Do, to Be, Nov, 60 Reinforcing Our Seams, Jessica J. Change and the Virtue of the Word, Smith, Carol Cornwall Madsen, Treasure of Eternal Value, Apr, 4 Carrier, June, 58 Keith R. Edwards, July, 54 Sep, 10 Until We Meet Again, Nov, 106 Restoring Faith in the Family, Kenneth Choosing Liberty and Eternal Life, Preparing Yourself for Marriage, Eric Welcome to Conference, Nov, 4 Johnson, May, 15 Craig A. Cardon, Feb, 20 B. Shumway, Oct, 54 MORALITY (see CHASTITY, MOD- Safety in Counsel, Henry B. Eyring, Coming to Know for Ourselves, Putting My Marriage before My Pride, ESTY) June, 4 Kenneth Johnson, July, 28 Irene Eubanks, Jan, 33 Morris, Michael R. Odekirk, Sally Johnson Cultivating Righteousness, Marcus B. Maxwell, Neal A. Finding What Was Missing, Oct, 16 Watch, Some Buttons, and Joseph’s Nash, Aug, 29 Consecrate Thy Performance, Help and Hope in Washington, D.C., Cloak, A, July, 38 Experiencing a Change of Heart, Dec, 26 Apr, 28 Olson, Adam C. Keith K. Hilbig, June, 29 Maynes, Richard J. Morrison, Alexander B. Maintaining the Course, Apr, 10 Fruits of the Book of Mormon, Protecting Our Families in the Last Spiritual Component of Healing, The, Making Time to Be Holy, June, 10 Richard G. Hinckley, June, 68 Days, Oct, 50 June, 46 OPPOSITION (see also ADVER- Living by the Light of Christ, Spencer McCoy, Scott MOTHERHOOD (see also CHIL- SITY) J. Condie, Dec, 56 Savior’s Saving Hand, The, Mar, 78 DREN, FAMILY, PARENTHOOD, Christian Courage: The Price of Looking to the Lord, Mary N. Cook, McEwan, Charlotte Goodman WOMANHOOD) Discipleship, Robert D. Hales, Sep, 62 Was I Saved? Mar, 53 Daughters of God, M. Russell Nov, 72 Lord’s Pattern for Peace, The, McMullin, Keith B. Ballard, May, 108 “Hope Ya Know, We Had a Hard Christoffel Golden Jr., Apr, 58 God Loves and Helps All of His Grasshoppers, Purple Bathtubs, and Time,” Quentin L. Cook, Nov, 102 Men of a Sound Understanding, Children, Nov, 75 Other Surprises, Wanda I. Allen, Orton, Robert F. Daniel K Judd, Sep, 32 MELCHIZEDEK PRIESTHOOD (see Aug, 52 Living a Balanced Life, Feb, 64 Obedience: The First Law of Heaven, PRIESTHOOD) MUSIC (see also HYMNS) Oswald, William D. William D. Oswald, Jan, 10 MEMBERSHIP (see ACTIVITY, Carols across the Country, Heather Gospel Teaching–Our Most Protecting Our Families in the Last CHURCH; FELLOWSHIP) Beauchamp, Dec, 61 Important Calling, Nov, 95 Days, Richard J. Maynes, MERCY Primary Songs Blessed Me, Jennifer Obedience: The First Law of Heaven, Oct, 50 Today, Lance B. Wickman, May, 103 A. Lynn, Sep, 55 Jan, 10

70 Owens, Marie E. Faith to Stop a Flood, Pirkko How can I find peace during trou- Exercising the Soul, Jan, 53 Kassinen, Oct, 65 bled times? June, 54 God Loves and Helps All of His What are some ways I can P Children, Keith B. McMullin, Nov, 75 strengthen myself and progress Packard, Christine S. and Wendy Have Ye Inquired of the Lord? John spiritually when my spouse is not Ulrich Hilton III, Oct, 38 supportive of my Church activity? Single and Steadfast: Lessons in Master Bridge Builder, The, Thomas Sep, 58 Hope, Aug, 20 S. Monson, Jan, 4 How can I stand up in the workplace Packer, Boyd K. My Children’s Prayer, Virginia for what I believe without seeming Test, The, Nov, 88 Augusta de Padua Lima Pereira, self-righteous or judgmental? Twelve, The, May, 83 June, 73 Dec, 44 Who Is Jesus Christ? Mar, 12 Other Part of Forgiveness, The, Becky PARENTHOOD (see also CHIL- Dastrup, Dec, 53 R DREN, FAMILY, MOTHERHOOD) Our Hearts Knit as One, Henry B. Ramirez, Ramon Abortion: An Assault on the Eyring, Nov, 68 Emilio’s Faith, Mar, 31 Defenseless, Russell M. Nelson, Our Son’s Choices, Feb, 11 RANDOM SAMPLER Oct, 32 Pray Always, David A. Bednar, Adventure in a Bag, Dori Lee Hall, Love, Limits, and Latitude, Craig H. Nov, 41 Aug, 74 Hart, Lloyd D. Newell, and Julie H. Pray Always, Oct, 40 Bookmarks for Scripture Study, Haupt, Aug, 60 PREMORTAL LIFE (see SALVATION, Michelle Erik Lehnardt, June, 75 PARTICIPATION (see FELLOWSHIP) PLAN OF) Budgeting for Unexpected Expenses, PATIENCE PRIDE Alena Johnson, Apr, 74 Waiting a Little Season, Brooke Ann Battle of Pride, A, Dale Smith, Feb, 58 Conference Comes First, Bonnie Smith, July, 32 Putting My Marriage before My Pride, Vernon, Oct, 72 PATRIOTISM Irene Eubanks, Jan, 33 Conference Family Home Evening The Test, Boyd K. Packer, Nov, 88 PRIESTHOOD Idea, Natalie Greaves, Apr, 75 Paulsen, Deirdre M. Aaronic Priesthood and Young Dinnertime Discussions, Stephanie Faith in His Step and a Song in His Women Resource Guides, May, 127 Nixon, Feb, 74 Heart, July, 24 Do You Know Who You Are? Dean R. Do’s for Nursery Leaders, Victoria T. PEACE (see also COMFORT) Burgess, May, 53 Draper, July, 74 Book of Mormon, The, Neil L. Examples of Righteousness, Thomas Dollar Dinners, Jean E. Lyman, Andersen, Jan, 34 S. Monson, May, 65 Aug, 74 Lord’s Pattern for Peace, The, Honor the Priesthood and Use It Dyslexia and Gospel Learning, Christoffel Golden Jr., Apr, 58 Well, Richard G. Scott, Nov, 44 Amanda Merrill, Oct, 72 Making Time to Be Holy, Adam C. O Ye That Embark, Henry B. Eyring, Emergency Food for Dinner? Miriam Olson, June, 10 Nov, 57 Blackham Een, July, 75 Perkey, Joshua J. Spiritual Component of Healing, The, Energizing Couch Potatoes, Kathryn Finding My Faith, Oct, 10 Alexander B. Morrison, June, 46 Palmer, Jan, 74 Perry, L. Tom To Learn, to Do, to Be, Thomas S. Family Fun with the Articles of Faith, Gospel of Jesus Christ, The, May, 44 Monson, Nov, 60 Suzanne Ferrin, Jan, 75 Let Him Do It with Simplicity, Nov, 7 Twelve, The, Boyd K. Packer, May, 83 Family History Now, Roxanne PERSPECTIVE (see also ATTITUDE) 12-Year-Old Deacon, A, John M. Freeman, Jan, 75 Come What May, and Love It, Joseph Madsen, May, 55 Family Home Evening Helps, B. Wirthlin, Nov, 26 PRIESTHOOD BLESSINGS Barbara Wren Tuttle, Dec, 65 Looking to the Lord, Mary N. Cook, I Needed a Blessing, Yves Raoelina, Family Story Ideas, Sharman Tullis Sep, 62 Feb, 72 Gill, Apr, 75 Our God Truly Is God, Douglas L. Sacred Words, Edwin F. Smith, Apr, 62 Fitness for Families, Sheri Garver, Callister, Jan, 64 PRIMARY Dec, 65 Toothpaste on the Mirror, Bryce R. I Do My Part, and God Does the Rest, From Postcards to Flashcards, Petersen, Sep, 23 Jenny Piderit de la Maza, Sep, 52 Florence E. G. Hawkinson, Oct, 73 Petersen, Bryce R. Primary Songs Blessed Me, Jennifer From the Heart, Gail Porter, Feb, 75 Toothpaste on the Mirror, Sep, 23 A. Lynn, Sep, 55 “Gramma” School, Barbara Matson, Phippen, Shari PROPHETS Sep, 66 Becoming Spiritually Whole, Dec, 34 Give Heed unto the Prophets’ Words, Helping Children Remember Him, PHYSICAL FITNESS Quentin L. Cook, May, 47 Sep, 67 Exercising the Soul, Marie E. Owens, He Lives! The Witness of Latter-day “Hi, I’m New,” Josi Kilpack, Sep, 67 Jan, 53 Prophets, Mar, 8 Just a Small Donation, Alf and Lois Pilcher, Laura Heeding the Voice of the Prophets, Hopkins, Jan, 74 My Neighbor’s Magazine, Sep, 35 Dieter F. Uchtdorf, July, 4 Just the Friend, Jenny Hartzog, PLAN OF SALVATION (see SALVA- Looking Back and Moving Forward, Feb, 74 TION, PLAN OF) Thomas S. Monson, May, 87 Keyboard Course Kit, Sylvia POETRY PROTECTION Salisbury, Feb, 74 In Bethlehem, Sharon Price In the Path of the Tornado, Karen Military Mail, Jennifer Hansen, Anderson, Feb, 10 Stotts Myatt, Apr, 54 June, 75 Journey, The, Lisa South, July, 27 Protecting Our Families in the Last Our Best Tradition Yet, Vaughn C. PONDERING Days, Richard J. Maynes, Oct, 50 Emett, Dec, 64 Gospel Teaching–Our Most Return to Virtue, A, Elaine S. Dalton, Our Ward’s “Instant” Choir, Gayle Important Calling, William D. Nov, 78 Spjut, Sep, 67 Oswald, Nov, 95 The Ministry of Angels, Jeffrey R. “Picture a Stable... ,” Barbara PORNOGRAPHY Holland, Nov, 29 Wren Tuttle, Dec, 65 Hope, Healing, and Dealing with Przybille, Kay Planning Your Family Home Evening, Addiction, Michael D. Gardner, Temple Blessings in a Part-Member Melinda Hunter, July, 75 July, 50 Family, Dec, 23 Ready Letters, Moira Dodkins, Feb, Lesson from a Milk Jug, July, 48 PURITY (see also MODESTY) 75 POSTER Opening Our Hearts, Gerald N. Roommate Reminders, Katie Jesus Loves Me, Mar, 74 Lund, May, 32 Westenskow, June, 74 POTENTIAL Roommates 101, Nathan Justis, Gospel of Jesus Christ Teaches the Q Aug, 75 Eternal Potential of the Children of QUESTIONS (see LEARNING, Serving with Style, Peggy Hyer, God, The, Sep, 65 TEACHING) Dec, 65 12-Year-Old Deacon, A, John M. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Sharing Cultures, Leonard Heo- Madsen, May, 55 How can I make Easter more Christ Moun, Apr, 74 PRAYER centered for my family and me? Study Tips from Sharing Time, Ask in Faith, David A. Bednar, May, 94 Feb, 34 Maralee Turner, Feb, 75

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 71 Supplementing Family Home SALVATION, PLAN OF Not Just a Blanket, Julia A. Wagner, South, Lisa Evening, Sharlene T. Barber, Oct, 73 After the Manner of Happiness, John Jan, 25 Journey, The, July, 27 They Can See What to Do, Jenny B. Dickson, Feb, 14 Now Let Us Rejoice, Barbara SPIRITUAL REBIRTH Spencer, June, 74 Choosing Liberty and Eternal Life, Thompson, Nov, 114 Born Again, D. Todd Christofferson, Try to Say Yes, Mary King, July, 75 Craig A. Cardon, Feb, 20 O Ye That Embark, Henry B. Eyring, May, 76 When Adult Children Return Home, Gospel of Jesus Christ Teaches the Nov, 57 SPIRITUALITY (see also INSPIRA- Jane McBride Choate, Aug, 75 Reality of Our Premortal Existence, President Thomas S. Monson: In the TION) Rasband, Ronald A. The, June, 67 Footsteps of the Master, Jeffrey R. Lines, Levels, and Living the Gospel, Special Experiences, May, 11 Salvation and Exaltation, Russell M. Holland, June Supplement, 2 Sandi Matlock Fairbanks, Oct, 15 REACTIVATION (see CONVERSION, Nelson, May, 7 Returning Home, Eduardo Gavarret, STANDARDS (see MODESTY, FELLOWSHIP, MISSIONARY WORK) Was I Saved? Charlotte Goodman Nov, 98 PURITY) REGRET McEwan, Mar, 53 Scatter Sunshine, Oct, 24 STATISTICS Finding Joy in the Journey, Thomas S. Schoof, Maury W. Service, a Divine Quality, Carlos H. Statistical Report, 2007, F. Michael Monson, Nov, 84 Lord Can Ease Our Burdens, The, Amado, May, 35 Watson, May, 25 Reid, Kimberly Oct, 29 Stand Ye in Holy Places, Harold B. Stephenson, William T. Dating and the Eternal Perspective, Scott, Richard G. Lee, Oct, 44 Cancer, Nutrition, and the Word of Feb, 60 Honor the Priesthood and Use It Three Christmas Stories: Small, Wisdom: One Doctor’s Family Faith, Aug, 54 Well, Nov, 44 Snow-Covered Tree, A, Darrell Observations, July, 42 RELIEF SOCIETY To Heal the Shattering Consequences Smart, Dec, 18 Steuer, Robert R. Fulfilling the Purposes of Relief Society, of Abuse, May, 40 Until We Meet Again, Thomas S. Power of Light and Truth, The, Julie B. Beck, Nov, 108 SCRIPTURES (see also BOOK OF Monson, Nov, 106 May, 99 Now Let Us Rejoice, Barbara MORMON, LESSONS FROM THE Who Is My Neighbor? And, H. David Stevenson, Russell Thompson, Nov, 114 BOOK OF MORMON) Burton, May, 51 Making the Most of Our Single Years, Relief Society Lesson That Changed Our Beetle Traps and Scripture Study, Shumway, Eric B. Aug, 26 Family, The, Jan, 30 Jana Troseth, Feb, 53 Preparing Yourself for Marriage, STORIES REPENTANCE Changing Behavior—One Verse at a Oct, 54 Conference Story Index, May, 126; Atonement at Work, The, Mar, 39 Time, Debra L. Adams, Feb, 50 SIMPLICITY Nov, 124 Born Again, D. Todd Christofferson, Gospel Teaching—Our Most Even a Child Can Understand, Gérald STRESS May, 76 Important Calling, William D. Caussé, Nov, 32 Let Him Do It with Simplicity, L. Tom Concern for the One, Joseph B. Oswald, Nov, 95 Let Him Do It with Simplicity, L. Tom Perry, Nov, 7 Wirthlin, May, 17 How I Found Christ in Capernaum, Perry, Nov, 7 SUBMISSIVENESS Exquisite Joy of Repentance, The, Peggy Jason Jones, Apr, 72 SINGLE ADULTS Consecrate Thy Performance, Neal A. Ollerton Archuleta, June, 34 Keeping Scripture Study Alive, Dating and the Eternal Perspective, Maxwell, Dec, 26 Gospel of Jesus Christ, The, L. Tom Aug, 17 Kimberly Reid, Feb, 60 Why Did the Lord Call Me? Kimberlee Perry, May, 44 Men of a Sound Understanding, Help and Hope in Washington, D.C., B. Garrett, Oct, 22 Matter of a Few Degrees, A, Dieter F. Daniel K Judd, Sep, 32 Michael R. Morris, Apr, 28 SUFFERING (see ADVERSITY) Uchtdorf, May, 57 “My Words . . . Never Cease,” Jeffrey Making the Most of Our Single Years, SURVEY Our Son’s Choices, Feb, 11 R. Holland, May, 91 Russell Stevenson, Aug, 26 Ensign Reader Survey, Sep, 79 Savior’s Saving Hand, The, Scott McCoy, Plain and Precious Truths, Mar, 68 Preparing Yourself for Marriage, Eric SUSTAINING Mar, 78 Relief Society Lesson That Changed B. Shumway, Oct, 54 Sustaining of Church Officers, The, Today, Lance B. Wickman, May, 103 Our Family, The, Jan, 30 Single and Steadfast: Lessons in Dieter F. Uchtdorf, May, 4 Who Is Jesus Christ? Boyd K. Packer, Searle, Don L. Hope, Christine S. Packard and Sustaining of Church Officers, The, Mar, 12 Spiders and Spiritual Help, Feb, 19 Wendy Ulrich, Aug, 20 Henry B. Eyring, Nov, 25 RESTORATION SELF-DISCIPLINE Waiting a Little Season, Brooke Ann Three Presiding High Priests, William Plain and Precious Truths, Mar, 68 Tempering Our Tempers, Douglas E. Smith, July, 32 R. Walker, May, 37 Prophet Joseph Smith, an Extraordinary Brinley, Feb, 54 Smart, Darrell True and Living Church, The, Henry Teacher, The, Jay E. Jensen, Jan, 12 SELF-SUFFICIENCY (see FINAN- Small, Snow-Covered Tree, A, Dec, 18 B. Eyring, May, 20 RESURRECTION (see also ATONE- CIAL MANAGEMENT, HUMANITAR- Smith, Brooke Ann MENT, JESUS CHRIST) IAN AID) Waiting a Little Season, July, 32 T May We So Live, Thomas S. Monson, SELFISHNESS Smith, Dale Tanner, Susan W. Aug, 4 Lift Where You Stand, Dieter F. Battle of Pride, A, Feb, 58 My Soul Delighteth in the Things of REVELATION Uchtdorf, Nov, 53 Smith, Edwin F. the Lord, May, 81 “My Words . . . Never Cease,” Jeffrey R. SENSITIVITY Sacred Words, Apr, 62 Stand as a Witness, May, 113 Holland, May, 91 Cultivating Sensitivity to Others, SMITH, JOSEPH Taylor, Rebecca M. Opening Our Hearts, Gerald N. Lund, Andrea Worthington Snarr, Book with a Promise, A, Craig C. Why Adoption? Jan, 46 May, 32 June, 59 Christensen, May, 105 TEACHING Test, The, Boyd K. Packer, Nov, 88 SEPARATION I Remember Joseph, Dec, 40 About Their Father’s Business, Dean REVERENCE Armor of Battle, Armor of God, June, 24 Joseph and Emma’s Family, Feb, 39 R. Burgess, Aug, 66 Modesty: Reverence for the Lord, SERVICE (see also CHARITY, COM- “My Dear and Beloved Companion”: Chalk It Up to Learning, Robb Jones, Robert D. Hales, Aug, 34 PASSION, LOVE) The Letters of Joseph and Emma Sep, 29 Sacrament Meeting and the Sacrament, Bucketful of Love, A, Norma Ramos Smith, Carol Cornwall Madsen, Gospel Teaching–Our Most Dallin H. Oaks, Nov, 17 de Oliveira, Mar, 80 Sep, 10 Important Calling, William D. RIGHTEOUSNESS Elder D. Todd Christofferson: Prophet Joseph Smith, an Oswald, Nov, 95 Cultivating Righteousness, Marcus B. Prepared to Serve the Lord, Extraordinary Teacher, The, Jay E. Questions, the Heart of Learning and Nash, Aug, 29 Quentin L. Cook, Aug, 10 Jensen, Jan, 12 Teaching, Brian Gudmundson, Rivera, Luz Yesenia Moreno Elder Quentin L. Cook: A Willing Watch, Some Buttons, and Joseph’s Jan, 26 I’m a Latter-day Saint, Mar, 80 Heart and Mind, Jeffrey R. Holland, Cloak, A, Sally Johnson Odekirk, Teachings for Our Time, May, 127; Roughley, Tom Apr, 18 July, 38 Nov, 124 It All Began with You, Jan, 19 Faith and the Oath and Covenant of We Believe, Mar, 54 Tending the Flock: Teaching Rowe, Jeffrey S. the Priesthood, Henry B. Eyring, Smith, Robert A. and LaRene Leadership Skills to Youth, Dieter F. My Remarkable Dream, Oct, 64 May, 61 Porter Gaunt Uchtdorf and M. Russell Ballard, Rusch, Carolyn Fulfilling the Purposes of Relief Samuel H. Smith, Aug, 44 June, 16 Families Can Be Together Forever, Society, Julie B. Beck, Nov, 108 SMITH, SAMUEL H. TEENAGERS (see CHILDREN, June, 22 God Loves and Helps All of His Samuel H. Smith, LaRene Porter YOUTH). Children, Keith B. McMullin, Gaunt and Robert A. Smith, Aug, 44 TELEVISION S Nov, 75 Smith, Tom Unplugged, Annette Candland Alger, SACRAMENT Lord Can Ease Our Burdens, The, From a Small and Simple Invitation, Jan, 56 Arms of Safety, Jay E. Jensen, Nov, 47 Maury W. Schoof, Oct, 29 Dec, 54 TEMPLES Sacrament Meeting and the Sacrament, Master Bridge Builder, The, Thomas Snarr, Andrea Worthington Celestial Marriage, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, Nov, 17 S. Monson, Jan, 4 Cultivating Sensitivity to Others, Nov, 92 SAFETY My Father, My Hero, Greg Hudnall, June, 59 Gather to the Temple, Claudio R. M. Arms of Safety, Jay E. Jensen, Nov, 47 Sep,16 SOBERNESS Costa, Dec, 20 Safety in Counsel, Henry B. Eyring, My Unexpected Easter Feast, Winning the War against Evil, James J. Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants, June, 4 Marianne Monson, Mar, 77 Hamula, Nov, 50 Silvia H. Allred, Nov, 112

72 I Had Faith but No Money, Teódulo TRUTH Williams, Janele Troconiz, Oct, 62 True and Living Church, The, Henry Helping Children Cope with Return to Virtue, A, Elaine S. Dalton, B. Eyring, May, 20 Traumatic Situations, Feb, 46 Nov, 78 Wilson, Erin Temple Blessings in a Part-Member U Unexpected Lesson, An, Dec, 63 Family, Kay Przybille, Dec, 23 UCHTDORF, DIETER F. Wirthlin, Joseph B. Welcome to Conference, Thomas S. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf: A Family Band of Brothers, Feb, 28 Monson, Nov, 4 Man, a Man of Faith, a Man Come What May, and Love It, Nov, 26 TEMPTATION Foreordained, Russell M. Nelson, Concern for the One, May, 17 We Will Not Yield, We Cannot Yield, July, 16 WITNESS W. Craig Zwick, May, 97 Uchtdorf, Dieter F. Becoming a Witness of Christ, D. Winning the War against Evil, James J. Developing Christlike Attributes, Todd Christofferson, Mar, 58 Hamula, Nov, 50 Oct, 4 Stand as a Witness, Susan W. Tanner, TESTIMONY Faith of Our Father, May, 68 May, 113 Anchors of Testimony, Mary N. Cook, Happiness, Your Heritage, Nov, 117 Was I Saved? Charlotte Goodman May, 120 Heeding the Voice of the Prophets, McEwan, Mar, 53 Because My Father Read the Book of July, 4 WOMANHOOD (see also MOTHER- Mormon, Marcos A. Aidukaitis, Lift Where You Stand, Nov, 53 HOOD, RELIEF SOCIETY, VISITING Nov, 15 Matter of a Few Degrees, A, May, 57 TEACHING) Becoming a Witness of Christ, D. Sustaining of Church Officers, The, Daughters of God, M. Russell Todd Christofferson, Mar, 58 May, 4 Ballard, May, 108 Book with a Promise, A, Craig C. The Infinite Power of Hope, Nov, 21 My Soul Delighteth in the Things of Christensen, May, 105 Uchtdorf, Dieter F. and M. Russell the Lord, Susan W. Tanner, May, 81 Coming to Church, Becoming Ballard Honor the Priesthood and Use It Converted, Dale M. Valentine, Tending the Flock: Teaching Well, Richard G. Scott, Nov, 44 Sep, 50 Leadership Skills to Youth, Woodbury, Kim Did I Really Know? Justin June, 16 Best Part of the Lesson, The, Aug, 16 Geracitano, Aug, 73 Ulrich, Wendy and Christine S. WORD OF WISDOM Elder D. Todd Christofferson: Packard Cancer, Nutrition, and the Word of Prepared to Serve the Lord, Single and Steadfast: Lessons in Wisdom: One Doctor’s Quentin L. Cook, Aug, 10 Hope, Aug, 20 Observations, William T. Families Can Be Together Forever, UNITY Stephenson, July, 42 Carolyn Rusch, June, 22 Band of Brothers, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Choosing Liberty and Eternal Life, Fruits of the Book of Mormon, Feb, 28 Craig A. Cardon, Feb, 20 Richard G. Hinckley, June, 68 Be One, Henry B. Eyring, Sep, 4 Energy Drink Epidemic, The, Thomas Gaining a Testimony of God the Come to Zion, D. Todd J. Boud, Dec, 48 Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and Christofferson, Nov, 37 Give Heed unto the Prophets’ Words, the Holy Ghost, Robert D. Hales, Our Hearts Knit as One, Henry B. Quentin L. Cook, May, 47 May, 29 Eyring, Nov, 68 WORSHIP He Lives! The Witness of Latter-day Worship through the Hymns, Mar, 64 Prophets, Mar, 8 V WORTHINESS I’m a Latter-day Saint, Luz Yesenia Valentine, Dale M. Honor the Priesthood and Use It Moreno Rivera, Mar, 80 Coming to Church, Becoming Well, Richard G. Scott, Nov, 44 Living Christ: The Testimony of the Converted, Sep, 50 Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants, Apostles of The Church of Jesus VIRTUE (see MODESTY) Silvia H. Allred, Nov, 112 Christ of Latter-day Saints, The, VISITING TEACHING Mar, 42 Ethel and Edna, Karie Lyne Jackson, Y Looking Back and Moving Forward, Apr, 65 YOUNG WOMEN Thomas S. Monson, May, 87 VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE Aaronic Priesthood and Young Power of Light and Truth, The, Robert All Human Beings Are Created in the Women Resource Guides, May, 127 R. Steuer, May, 99 Image of God, July, 57 Presidents of the Young Women Special Experiences, Ronald A. Each Sister Is a Beloved Daughter of Organization through the Years, Rasband, May, 11 Heavenly Parents and Has a Divine June, 40 Testimony as a Process, Carlos A. Destiny, Aug, 69 Video Presentation, May, 118 Godoy, Nov, 100 Family Is Central to the Creator’s Young, Rebecca Testimony, Dallin H. Oaks, May, 26 Plan, The, Feb, 69 Reaching Out to Belong, June, 64 We Believe, Mar, 54 Gender Is an Essential Characteristic YOUTH We Testify of Jesus Christ, Gordon B. of Eternal Identity and Purpose, Tending the Flock: Teaching Hinckley, Mar, 4 Oct, 67 Leadership Skills to Youth, Dieter F. What I Like Best about Church, Gospel of Jesus Christ Teaches the Uchtdorf and M. Russell Ballard, Isabelle Alpert, June, 70 Eternal Potential of the Children of June, 16 You Know Enough, Neil L. Andersen, God, The, Sep, 65 Nov, 13 Gospel of Jesus Christ Teaches the Z Thompson, Barbara Reality of Our Premortal Existence, ZION Now Let Us Rejoice, Nov, 114 The, June, 67 Come to Zion, D. Todd TIME MANAGEMENT Jesus Christ Is the Light, Life, and Christofferson, Nov, 37 Making Time to Be Holy, Adam C. Hope of the World, Dec, 59 ZION’S CAMP Olson, June, 10 Jesus Christ Taught the Purpose of Waiting a Little Season, Brooke Ann Tintle, Annie Our Life on Earth, Jan, 69 Smith, July, 32 In Shepherd’s Field, Dec, 19 Marriage between a Man and a Zwick, W. Craig TITHING Woman Is Ordained of God, Apr, 64 We Will Not Yield, We Cannot Yield, Best Investment, The, Sheldon F. May, 97 Child, May, 79 W Life-Changing Leadership, Feb, 23 Wagner, Julia A. Week to Go until Payday, A, Julie C. Not Just a Blanket, Jan, 25 Donaldson, June, 71 Walker, William R. TRADITIONS Three Presiding High Priests, May, 37 Righteous Traditions, Cheryl C. Lant, WELFARE (see HUMANITARIAN May, 13 AID) Troconiz, Teódulo Wickman, Lance B. I Had Faith but No Money, Oct, 62 Today, May, 103 Troseth, Jana WILL OF GOD Beetle Traps and Scripture Study, Ask in Faith, David A. Bednar, Feb, 53 May, 94

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 73 are helping recruit index vol- FamilySearch Indexing: Anyone Can Help unteers in many countries to become a part of the global with Family History Anytime, Anywhere effort. By Eric Eames, Church Magazines “Now that records for more countries are available, s they pore over digi- program is because the soft- a batch, I upload it, and it’s more members are enthusias- A tized census records ware is designed to fit a busy done. I think this is great for tic about participating,” said and church ledgers, lifestyle. Previously known as a lot of people who would Francisco Javier Gómez, Church members participat- extraction, indexing was once not find the time with the FamilySearch support man- ing in FamilySearch indexing a time-consuming process old extraction model.” ager for the South America are reminded that with every of shuffling through paper Indexing creates data files North Area. “They feel that click of the mouse a person copies, taking weeks to do from digitized records, which this is one more proof that comes closer to being found a single batch. allows the information to the Church is really engaged and closer to receiving tem- With the help of digitiza- become searchable through in helping the whole world to ple ordinances. tion and the Internet, each a free electronic database on get to know their ancestors.” The vision of volunteer- batch of names now takes FamilySearch.org. There is no based FamilySearch indexing some 30 minutes to com- minimum or maximum limit Indexing Strengthens projects is spreading world- plete. Volunteers are given to how many names an indi- Testimonies, Unity wide from Latin America to a week to complete a batch, vidual can do. Every name In 2007, students in the Asia and from the old to the and they can save their work indexed makes a difference Logan Utah University Fifth young. Members with access at any time and start again in helping people locate their Stake not only met their goal to the Internet are taking later where they left off. ancestors. of indexing 100,000 names, advantage of FamilySearch’s “What I really like about FamilySearch has a variety but exceeded it by 3,000. user-friendly Web site and indexing is that you can do it of indexing projects available They surpassed that total taking time to index between on your time, one batch at a in Dutch, English, French, after the first two months classes, during work breaks, time,” said Patricia Mollemans German, Italian, and Spanish. in 2008 while on the way or in place of watching of Germany. “It is not over- Indexing projects in Czech to shattering their new goal television. whelming; it can be done and Russian are forthcoming. of 200,000 names. For some people like in half an hour or so. I do Area FamilySearch managers But results can’t always Austin Corry, a university be quantified. Blessings have student in the United States come to many in the form and a member of the Logan of strengthened testimonies University 15th Ward, Logan because of their efforts with Utah University Fifth Stake, the program. Elaine Mander, indexing has became a fun, a FamilySearch representative relaxing experience. in West Midlands, United “I found time to index 15 Kingdom, said indexing has minutes here, an hour there,” brought her closer to heaven said Brother Corry, who has more than any other form of indexed more than 17,000 service. names in his spare time. “It The effort put forth in really isn’t an inconvenience, the Logan stake has unified but a great opportunity to wards. Individually, students bring the Spirit into your have turned their eyes to everyday life.” the temple, gaining a greater appreciation for its signifi- Global Indexing cance by committing them- Fits a Busy Life selves to maintain their

One of the reasons WELDEN ANDERSEN BY PHOTOGRAPH covenants and live temple FamilySearch users world- Now anyone with a computer and an Internet connection can standards. wide love the indexing help with family history. “The Spirit is present,”

74 said Kay Baker, stake high councilor over the indexing New Temple work. “As young people get on the computer and start Presidents entering names and doing family history work, they Now Serving find it fun and exhilarating.” PHOTOGRAPH BY WELDEN ANDERSEN BY PHOTOGRAPH Activity has also increased y assignment from the among less-active members BFirst Presidency, 39 as bishops have given them new temple presidents assignments to do indexing. are now serving with their “[Through indexing] they spouses. The presidents of can serve and feel like they the Panama City Panama, are contributing, and it has Rexburg Idaho, and Twin Falls helped some of them come Idaho Temples began serving back into activity and to cor- earlier in 2008 after the tem- rect what was wrong in their ples were dedicated. The lives,” said Bruce M. Cook, president of the Draper Utah recently released president Temple will begin serving af- of the student stake. ter the temple is dedicated on March 20, 2009. Students Redefining Stereotypes Members around the world are spending a little time each Temple New President While family history week to help prepare indexes. work is generally regarded Adelaide Australia Philip F. Howes as the domain of older mem- on their own family roots important for all members Apia Samoa John P. Hanks bers, the students contradict and to do temple work. In to become involved with Asunción Paraguay David K Udall that stereotype. Some ward 2007 students in the stake indexing and family history Baton Rouge Louisiana Max P. Brough socials and family home researched and cleared work,” Sister Olsen said. “If Bern Switzerland Raimondo Castellani evenings in the stake have some 2,500 family names we always leave the responsi- Billings Montana Ronald M. Morrison turned into indexing “extrava- for temple ordinances. bility up to someone else, it Bismarck North Dakota ganzas.” Between completing “I think that it is really will never get done.” ■ John R. Reese index batches, students snack Bogotá Colombia Jorge J. Escobar on treats, socialize, or play a New Technology Sparks Youth Interest Boise Idaho Wenden W. Waite game of volleyball. Some of Columbia South Carolina these socials have lasted into in Family History Brent H. Koyle the wee hours of the morn- amilySearch public “As opportunities to do Curitiba Brazil Jason G. Sousa ing, with students signed up Faffairs manager family history or volunteer Draper Utah Donald L. Staheli to come in at various times of Paul Nauta said the online grow, youth seem Freiberg Germany Frank H. Apel the night. One ward started Church-owned family his- naturally primed to get Guayaquil Ecuador Jorge A. Rojas an indexing marathon at tory service is thrilled to involved,” Brother Nauta Idaho Falls Idaho Larry G. Stoddard 6:00 p.m. and ended at see the increasing volume said. Jordan River Utah 8:00 a.m. the next day. of teenagers and college Anyone interested in F. Wayne Chamberlain “It was fun to see mem- students who are motivated family history work can Kona Opurainonarii Mo’o bers of the bishopric and to do indexing work or become an indexer by Logan Utah W. Rolfe Kerr high council stay up through search for their own ances- going to the Web site, Los Angeles California the night with students to tors. He also hopes contin- FamilySearchIndexing.org, Grant R Brimhall [help us] reach our goals,” ued enhancements to the clicking on the Volunteer Louisville Kentucky Dale R. Hettinger Belinda Olsen, a member FamilySearch Web site will link, and following the Lubbock Texas E. Dale Cluff of the stake, said. attract more technology- step-by-step download Madrid Spain Garry K. Moore The indexing has moti- minded youth. instructions. ■ Mount Timpanogos Utah vated some to begin working L. Edward Brown

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 75 Church Aids Victims of Hurricanes

any people were Maffected by the 2008 hurricane season. Power outages, flooding, and other physical damages to homes left many without The Guayaquil Ecuador Temple is 1 of 39 temples with new temple presidents. shelter. During Hurricanes Gustav and Ike in August Newport Beach California Salt Lake Sheldon F. Child The Hague Netherlands and September, more D. Thomas Borgquist San Antonio Texas Marion D. Woods Jacob J. Van Ry than 20 Church buildings Oakland California Richard A. Hunter San Diego California Bruce L. Olsen Toronto Ontario Stephen M. Hadley throughout the Caribbean Ogden Utah Robert R. Steuer Snowflake Arizona Lewis Tenney Twin Falls Idaho Donald R. Gerratt and the United States Panama City Panama Ronald D. Jamison Suva Fiji LaRon P. Woolley Vernal Utah Mac W. Holmes were used as shelters. Rexburg Idaho Val R. Christensen Sydney Australia W. John Bailey Washington D.C. Earl C. Tingey ■ Approximately 35 member homes were destroyed, and more than 250 were Church Helps DR Congo seriously damaged. In an effort to help storm- Reduce Preventable Deaths stricken areas, the Church ith help from Church family that has not lost at primary vaccinations such as responded quickly, sending WHumanitarian least one child, and some measles, polio, tetanus, and much-needed help and sup- Services, vaccination have lost many.” tuberculosis. plies. Priesthood leaders campaigns are spreading from But the real tragedy is that “[The Church’s] gift worked with other organiza- the main cities to the most re- a simple, inexpensive vaccine will help us educate families tions to distribute supplies. mote villages in Africa to pre- could have saved many lives. and make them healthier,” vent contagious diseases. In 2007 Church humanitarian said Dr. Charlotte Ngokaba, Hurricane Gustav With one out of five chil- volunteers helped publicize National Director of Vacci- Hurricane Gustav, the sec- dren dying there each year the country’s measles vaccina- nations in the DR Congo. ond major hurricane of 2008, from preventable diseases, tion program. As a result, Since 2003, nearly 60,000 formed on August 25, 2008, the Democratic Republic of more than 670,000 children Church volunteers have about 260 miles (420 km) the Congo has received pro- received measles vaccinations. teamed with the World southeast of Port-au-Prince, motional assistance from the DR Congo health officials Health Organization (WHO), Haiti, and eventually caused Church to attempt to reverse were so impressed by how UNICEF, the American Red serious damage in the the trend. the Church handled its part of Cross, and local Ministries Dominican Republic; Haiti; “The childhood death rate the measles campaign, which of Health to decrease the Jamaica; the Cayman Islands; in the Congo is very high, included radio and television measles death rate. Cuba; and Florida, Louisiana, because people are unable to advertising, they asked for According to a WHO Mississippi, Alabama, and afford health care and often help with another project. report, these efforts are pay- Arkansas in the United States. delay seeking help until it is In 2008 the Church ing off. Measles deaths in Torrential rain and strong too late,” said Sister Marilyn paid for the production of Africa have dropped 93 per- winds blew through Haiti Barlow, a humanitarian serv- updated materials—posters cent since 1999. Worldwide on August 26 as Hurricane ices missionary serving in the and flip charts—so the gov- measles deaths have fallen 73 Gustav left people homeless DR Congo with her husband, ernment could train health percent, from nearly 900,000 and without many necessi- Farrell. “Even among Church specialists and educate moth- in 1999 to an estimated ties. At least four major members it is hard to find a ers about the importance of 242,000 in 2006. ■ storms hit the area during

76 destruction, approximately 1,300 cleanup workers. 18,500 member volunteer During the two-day period PHOTOGRAPH BY CARINA OLSEN BY PHOTOGRAPH hours were given over a two- about 2,500 projects were day period by approximately completed. ■

ON THE WEB

Church Gives Mormon.org Joseph Smith Manual PDFs New Look, More Content Available in 11 Languages To improve Mormon The Church Curriculum .org, the Church has made Department has expanded David Dickamore, wearing a Mormon Helping Hands shirt, navigation and visual the online availability of cuts limbs from a tree blown down by Hurricane Ike in Texas. changes to the site and the manual Teachings of added more multimedia Presidents of the Church: the 2008 hurricane season Additional assistance from content, including testi- Joseph Smith to 11 (Fay, Gustav, Hanna, and Ike). the bishops’ storehouse in monies from General languages. The Church sent three Slidell, Louisiana, provided Authorities and members PDF files and MP3 audio planeloads of supplies to Port- food, water, generators, tools, around the world and files of the manual are avail- au-Prince, and priesthood sleeping bags, chain saws, a new video entitled able in Cantonese, English, leaders worked with multiple tarps, and other smaller items. Finding Happiness. The French, German, Italian, organizations to help distrib- updated site launched in Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, ute the aid. Included in the Hurricane Ike September 2008 in English Portuguese, Russian, and supplies were hygiene kits, The third major hurri- and is expected to be Spanish. Files for American hand soap, cleaning kits, cane of 2008, Hurricane Ike, available in Spanish by Sign Language are also tents, generators, plastic stormed through Haiti, the early 2009. Later in 2009 available. sheeting, hammers, and Dominican Republic, Cuba, the site will be made avail- Access the manual and nails. The Church also sent and the United States, leav- able in an additional other Church publications additional funds to purchase ing a trail of destruction in 21 languages. at www.lds.org/gospel food and other necessary early September 2008. States library/pdfindex. relief supplies. in the U.S. affected included Meetinghouse Locator Many Church members Mississippi, Louisiana, and Updated on LDS.org Country Web Sites in Haiti assisted in putting Texas. The Church upgraded Continue to Grow together and organizing relief In preparation for its online meetinghouse New Church country supplies that were then dis- Hurricane Ike, the Church locator in August 2008, Web sites in English for tributed to areas of need. sent supplies to Slidell, providing users with more the countries of the Pacific In addition to the relief Louisiana, and to Houston, precise directions to meet- Area and in Tahitian for efforts in Haiti, aid was sent Carrollton, Lufkin, and San inghouses throughout the Tahiti launched in August to help victims in the south- Antonio, Texas. More than world, access for mobile 2008. There are now 64 ern United States, also hard 9,000 cleaning kits were dis- devices, and lists of differ- country sites with others hit by the storms. The Church tributed to the various areas ent types of congregations (Belgium, Croatia, Hungary, donated more than 20 truck- before the storm hit. nearby, including language- Paraguay, Philippines, loads of supplies, including Other supplies sent as specific wards or branches Portugal, and Uruguay) more than 7 truckloads of part of the prepositioning and young single adult under construction. A link hygiene kits (103,600) and strategy included a supply of units. The meetinghouse to the different country 11 truckloads of cleaning food and hygiene products locator can be accessed at sites can be found on kits (22,176). Food boxes along with assorted emer- maps.lds.org or through LDS.org under “About intended to feed a family of gency supplies. Included LDS.org (click on About the Church.” The country four were distributed to some were blankets, sleeping bags, the Church, then Find sites get nearly 150,000 1,200 families. Each food box work gloves, chain saws, a Meetinghouse) and visitors per month with included rice, vegetable oil, wheelbarrows, first aid kits, Mormon.org (click on about a million pages peanut butter, fruit drink mix, cots, tents, and water. Worship with Us). viewed. ■ and assorted canned goods. In response to the

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 77 SERVING IN THE COMMUNITY Church Assists Victims in Eastern Europe Flood he Church sent funds missionaries assembled Tin August 2008 to pur- hygiene and cleaning kits, chase emergency sup- cleaned up, and helped repair plies after at least 65 people damaged homes, which in died and nearly 90,000 homes some cases were made JOSE MORAS SANDOVAL BY PHOTOGRAPH were damaged by the worst primarily of mud and straw. flooding in 200 years in parts The flooding also damaged of Ukraine, Moldova, and more than 200,000 acres Romania. Members and (90,000 ha) of farmland. ■

Members of the Chilpancingo Mexico Stake plant more than 5,000 trees as part of a service project. Members in Mexico Plant Thousands of Trees bout 120 members and four branches helped Aof the Chilpancingo with the project. Wearing Mexico Stake planted white Mormon Helping more than 5,000 trees in Hands vests, members of all Petaquillas, a community in ages spread out over the spec-

PHOTOGRAPH BY GERALD D. JACOBS GERALD D. BY PHOTOGRAPH Chilpancingo, capital of the ified area with shovels and This home was one of 90,000 damaged by historic flooding state of Guerrero. Members spent the day digging holes in Eastern Europe. from the stake’s eight wards and planting the trees. ■

TEMPLE NEWS was first announced on 128th operating temple in the October 2, 2004, and the world and the fourth in Idaho. Draper Utah Temple groundbreaking occurred “We are grateful for this on August 5, 2006. The tem- long-awaited day of dedica- Dates Announced ple will officially open on tion, when this, Thy holy he First Presidency has dated September 15, 2008. Monday, March 23, 2009. ■ house, has been completed,” Tannounced open house The open house is set to said President Monson in the and dedication dates begin on Thursday, January 15, dedicatory prayer. “Bless, we for the Draper Utah Temple. 2009, and is scheduled to Temple Open pray Thee, those faithful mem- This will be the 12th operat- continue until Saturday, bers here and throughout the ing temple in Utah and the March 14, 2009, excluding in Twin Falls world who have contributed 129th worldwide. Sundays. The dedication their tithes, which have made “We, with you, look for- will be held from Friday, he Twin Falls Idaho possible this magnificent edi- ward to the dedication of March 20, through Sunday, TTemple is open and fice for Thy name’s honor and this house of the Lord and March 22, 2009, with four operating after its dedi- glory and for the blessing of all the blessing it will be to the dedicatory sessions held cation on August 24, 2008, who enter herein.” Saints,” the First Presidency on each of the three days. by President Thomas S. The new temple district said in a letter to members The Draper temple Monson. This marks the includes 14 stakes serving

78 Service by Nigerian Saints Affects Community

n July 19, 2008, Church their yellow Mormon members from the Helping Hands vests, the PHOTOGRAPH BY NETTIE ATKISSON NETTIE ATKISSON BY PHOTOGRAPH O Ile-Ife Nigeria District members spent 10 hours removed garbage and sludge clearing a trench that runs from a plugged drainage alongside a road in the system that was overflowing town’s commercial quarter. and disrupting many busi- People from other faiths nesses. Distinguished by joined in as they could. ■

Members of the California Stake cleaned up Pratt Place, a street named after Mormon emigrants who settled there in 1846. San Francisco Stake Remembers the Past or the San Francisco Joice Street, Pratt Place, and FCalifornia Stake’s 80th Brooklyn Place appreciated anniversary, members members removing trash cleaned three inner-city and weeds in July 2008. Some streets—two named after 250 Saints first arrived at Yerba Mormon pioneers and one Buena on the ship Brooklyn after a New York ship that in 1846. They helped build the carried hundreds of Saints tiny village into a town, which OLUWASEUN FAMUYIWA BY PHOTOGRAPH to the Bay Area before the was renamed San Francisco Members of the Ile-Ife Nigeria District clear a clogged Gold Rush. Residents on six months later. ■ drainage trench.

approximately 42,000 mem- bers in the south-central Laie Hawaii Temple Idaho area. Temple visitors can see the beautiful Idaho Closes for Renovations scenery of waterfalls and the syringa flower (Idaho state o return the temple to its Hawaii Temple district will flower) represented within Toriginal beauty and bring have access to the Kona the 31,500-square-foot (2,900- it up to date with current Hawaii Temple, giving all square-meter) temple’s walls, temple standards, the Laie members the opportunity stained glass, and landscaping. Hawaii Temple will close on to attend the temple, More than 150,000 visi- Monday, December 29, 2008, including those receiving tors toured the temple dur- for renovations to begin early their own ordinances. ing an open house held the next year. The renovation is The Laie Hawaii Temple month before the dedica- expected to be finished in ap- was first dedicated by tion. The temple was first proximately 18 months, and President Heber J. Grant in The Twin Falls Idaho announced in October 2004, the temple will be rededicated 1919 and was later rededi- Temple was dedicated and ground was broken in after the project is complete. cated after renovation and in August 2008. April 2006. ■ Members in the Laie expansion in 1978. ■

ENSIGN DECEMBER 2008 79 NEW PRODUCTS COMMENT

New Era Special Issue from LDS.org in multiple Power of the Word site www.familysearch.org Still Available media formats including text, Thank you for “Finding provides numerous resources A special issue of the New audio, and video versions. Comfort in King Benjamin’s for those wishing to start or Era published in October The new DVD set is available Counsel” (Ensign, Aug. 2008, continue family history work, 2008 was written to encour- through distribution centers. 25). I was reminded again including a locator for local age youth to be firm in their of the power of the word of family history centers. faith and make good deci- Triple Released in Chinese God. As a mother, I try to sions. The issue includes (Simplified Characters) relate the experiences my Touching the Heart counsel from Church leaders A new edition of the triple children are having to the During my husband’s and others on everyday combination in Chinese (sim- scriptures, but I don’t always stay in the cardiac care unit, challenges such as integrity, plified characters) was made take the time to actually I sat reading the August 2008 mental and physical health, available through Church dis- read the specific scripture. I Ensign. It gave me comfort, entertainment and media, tribution centers in October was inspired to do that more strength, and hope. I high- relationships, and personal 2008. The edition includes often. I also felt the confir- lighted many phrases. The testimony. A section on the the Book of Mormon, the mation of the Spirit as I read magazine spoke to my heart. 18 topics in For the Strength Doctrine and Covenants, this experience. The scrip- I continued to read, and of Youth features stories, the Pearl of Great Price, and tures really can make such a realized upon turning one explanations, and examples a study aid titled Guide to difference in how we under- last page that I had read the of living the principles taught the Scriptures. The Book of stand our purposes here and whole magazine. I had such in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Mormon in Chinese (simpli- the love our Heavenly Father a feeling of anxiousness, of Two wallet-sized For the fied characters) was published has for us. Thanks! needing to read more, of Strength of Youth booklets are in 2001. The Book of Mormon Johanna Wood being sorry it was over. included, along with “stan- in Chinese (traditional charac- Colorado, USA I have a week until the dards” cards, a resource to ters) was published in 1965, September issue comes. I’m help answer questions about and the triple in 2007. No Travel Necessary excited to get my hands on dating, the Word of Wisdom, I was very excited to see it. Thank you for all the time, and whether Mormons are Book of Mormon that the September Latter-day wisdom, and love that go into Christian. Printed in Sinhala Saint Voices stories (p. 68) these publications. The New Era is available Translation and production focused on family history. I Cathy Gage in distribution centers and of the Book of Mormon in was disappointed, however, Washington State, USA online at LDSCatalog.org. Sinhala, one of Sri Lanka’s offi- that two of the four stories cial languages, was finished discussed expensive family Healing from Abuse Scripture Stories Available in August 2008. Distribution history-related trips. Many Thank you so much for Online and on DVD of the Sinhala version of people do not get involved the article “Hope and Healing The illustrated Scripture the Book of Mormon began with family history because in Recovering from Abuse” Stories series is now available in September. Since 1983 it can seem very daunting to (Ensign, Sept. 2008, 36). It is online and on DVD. The story- Sinhala-speaking members get started. I worry that after what I went through. I loved books have been a great have had only portions of the seeing these stories people the choice of words and the resource for many years, help- Book of Mormon. There are who are hesitant to get understanding. I felt that the ing young children understand more than 16 million Sinhala started will now also think author really knew what she the scriptures through easy-to- speakers. that they need to become was talking about, like she understand text and pictures. Sri Lanka, located just off world travelers if they want was right there with me. The books also include maps, the southeast coast of India, to begin their own family his- I have a testimony of glossaries, and timelines for is home to more than 20 mil- tory. Opportunities for pow- the Atonement of our Savior additional information. lion people and is part of erful personal experiences Jesus Christ. I know He The series includes stories the Singapore Mission. The involving family history rarely knows me and what I have from the , New Church was officially recog- require any travel at all. been through. Thanks so Testament, Book of Mormon, nized in Sri Lanka on March 2, Sherry Lindsay much for reminding me. and Doctrine and Covenants 1979. The other official lan- New Zealand I know it will be OK! and can now be downloaded guage in Sri Lanka is Tamil. ■ Editor’s note: The Web Name Withheld

80 The Baby Jesus, by Jeremy Winborg Jesus Christ “shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our forefathers, she being a virgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, yea, even the Son of God” (Alma 7:10). “Concern and disappointment showed of our younger children. faces on the Christmas for not be home they Would brought had Eve? . . . After they to missionaries far and cheer happiness from Christmas would their home, come countryalongside a forgotten French road from [Ten- own home? far their Kristen we year-old] knew to whom immediately could appeal, and she in the (See “Room suggested a prayer.” Neil L. Andersen by Elder of the Inn,” and other Seventy, of the Presidency Christmas stories on page 12. beginning a prophet’s perspectiveFor real on the meaning of Christmas, President see message, “The Best S. Monson’s Thomas on page 4.) Christmas Ever,”

4 02022 12000 9 02212 Dec 08