Studying the Old Testament, pp. 39–45

Your GuideCOVER to Using STORY the CreatingEnsign, p. 10 TheHeavenly New Gospel Principles ManualHomes, p. 28 Finding The Comfort First Sunday in King Relief SocietyBenjamins Meeting, Counsel, p. p.2532 Making the Most of Our Single Years, p. 26 COURTESY OF ORSON SCOTT AND KRISTINE A. CARD COURTESY

Judgments of Job, by Joseph Brickey After Job’s property and children are destroyed, he is smitten with boils (see Job 1–2). Job’s friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, come to comfort him but soon begin to reprove him (see Job 4–5, 8, 11). Nevertheless, Job says, “Hold your peace, let me alone, that I may speak, and let come on me what will. “Though [God] slay me, yet will I trust in him . . . “He also shall be my salvation” ( Job 13:13, 15–16). Contents January 2010 >WT]UMŒ6]UJMZ

FEATURES 10 Your Guide to Using the Ensign Don L. Searle Tips for getting the most out of your magazine. 39 Prophets of the Old Testament Artists depict some of the prophets whose stories teach lessons for modern living. 42 “Moses, My Son” 4 Elder Ronald A. Rasband Is God really interested in you? 46 Making Mountains Adam C. Olson A tour guide in Taiwan shows how mortal challenges help prepare us to reach our ultimate goal of eternal life. MESSAGES OUR HOMES, OUR FAMILIES FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE 4 Hold on a Little Longer 18 Coming to My Ancestors’ Aid Louise Skyles President Dieter F. Uchtdorf An amazing family-history VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE journey. 9 Becoming Self-Reliant 21 How We Learned about Happiness Lidia Evgenevna Shmakova Our family was falling apart. ON THE COVER Then we met the missionaries. Daniel in the Lions’ Den 22 By Clark Kelley Price LIVING AS LATTER-DAY SAINTS 22 The Best Is Yet to Be Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Finding faith for the future. 58 They Spoke to Us | What Should We Do When We Don’t Know What to Do? Elder Stanley G. Ellis How to act when we lack perfect knowledge. 60 Gospel in My Life | With A Life Hanging in the Balance Samantha M. Wills Danger is averted as a paramedic heeds the promptings of the Spirit.

January 2010 62 38

TEACHING, LEARNING, SERVING DEPARTMENTS 28 The New Gospel Principles Manual Elder Russell M. Nelson 14 WHAT WE BELIEVE Introducing the new course of study for Priesthood God Is Truly Our Father and Relief Society in 2010 and 2011. How do we know there is a God? 32 Studying the Work of Relief Society 16 WE TALK OF CHRIST Julie B. Beck Walking through the Valley of the How the fi rst Sunday of the month Shadow of Death in Relief Society is different from Michael R. Blair other weeks. How hope in Christ gives me strength in my battle with cancer. BY STUDY AND BY FAITH 38 SERVING IN THE CHURCH 50 Gospel Classic | Solving Who, Me? Teach? Emotional Problems in the Lord’s Tips for teaching with confi dence and Own Way effectiveness. President Boyd K. Packer O vercoming emotional and 50 66 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES spiritual challenges. 70 IDEAS GOSPEL SOLUTIONS 52 The Courage to Comfort 71 SMALL AND SIMPLE THINGS Amy Weir NEWS OF THE CHURCH W hat can you do when a friend suffers a tragedy? 74 With a little courage, you can do a lot of good. 79 IN OTHER CHURCH MAGAZINES 54 Widows and Widowers: Moving forward 80 UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN with Faith “I Will be Found of You” Kersten Campbell Aaron L. West No matter how great the loss or deep the sorrow, Heavenly Father wants us to search for Him, happiness and healing come through the gospel of but He also wants us to fi nd Him. He knows Jesus Christ. how happy we will be when we do. PROVIDENT LIVING 62 Being Independent, Being Prepared Lisa Barton COMING IN FEBRUARY How these young adults are applying principles of ê-PPLJOHUPXBSEUIFUFNQMF preparedness to their busy, mobile lives. ê-FBSOJOHUPMPWFMFBSOJOH ê$ISJTUBOEUIFDVMUVSFPGUIF Old Testament

2 The Ensign ensign.lds.org Online

AN OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS JANUARY 2010 VOLUMEН/6.#&R 1 Get more from your Church magazine experience—check out these extras (and others), available at ensign.lds.org. The First Presidency: 5IPNBT4.POTPO )FOSZ#&ZSJOH  USING THE ENSIGN : %JFUFS'6DIUEPSG A look at how members of the Church are using their magazine. The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: #PZE,1BDLFS -5PN1FSSZ  SOLVING PROBLEMS: 3VTTFMM./FMTPO %BMMJO)0BLT  Watch President Boyd K. Packer’s .3VTTFMM#BMMBSE 3JDIBSE(4DPUU  1978 address on which the article on p. 50 is based. 3PCFSU%)BMFT +FGGSFZ3)PMMBOE  %BWJE"#FEOBS 2VFOUJO-$PPL  A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A PARAMEDIC: Watch video about %5PEE$ISJTUPGGFSTPO /FJM-"OEFSTFO Samantha Wills and her work as a paramedic. (Her story Editor:4QFODFS+$POEJF appears on p. 60.) Advisers:,FJUI,)JMCJH :PTIJIJLP,JLVDIJ 1BVM#1JFQFS GETTING STARTED WITH FAMILY Managing Director: HISTORY: Want to begin your family his- %BWJE-'SJTDILOFDIU tory but aren’t sure how to start? Materials Editorial Director:7JDUPS%$BWF Graphics Director:"MMBO3-PZCPSH in our beginner’s kit may help. Managing Editor: Don L. Searle Assistant Managing Editor: -B3FOF1PSUFS(BVOU

Senior Editors: .BUUIFX%'MJUUPO  -BSSZ)JMMFS .JDIBFM3.PSSJT  +PTIVB+1FSLFZ Assistant Editor: .FMJTTB.FSSJMM Editorial Staff:4VTBO#BSSFUU 3ZBO$BSS  +FOJGFS-(SFFOXPPE 37BM+PIOTPO  "EBN$0MTPO -BVSFM5FVTDIFS Editorial Intern: )BZMFZ(:BUFT Senior Secretary:"OOJF-+POFT Art Director:+4DPUU,OVETFO Senior Designers:$,JNCBMM#PUU  $PMMFFO)JODLMFZ HOW WE KNOW: Read weekly stories of members’ Design and Production Staff: conversions to the gospel of Jesus Christ. $BMJ3"SSPZP $PMMFUUF/FCFLFS"VOF  5IPNBT4$IJME &SJD1+PIOTFO  DID YOU KNOW? You can tune 4DPUU..PPZ +BOF"OO1FUFST  4DPUU7BO,BNQFO into Mormon Channel, an online Prepress:#ZSPO8BSOFS radio service, 24 hours a day for Printing Director:$SBJH,4FEHXJDL Church-sponsored programming, Distribution Director:3BOEZ+#FOTPO podcasts, and downloadable © 2010 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. shows. Go to radio.lds.org. All rights reserved. The Ensign (ISSN  JTQVCMJTIFENPOUIMZCZ5IF $IVSDIPG+FTVT$ISJTUPG-BUUFSEBZ4BJOUT  &/PSUI5FNQMF4USFFU 4BMU-BLF$JUZ  include your name, address, telephone num- 65 64"1FSJPEJDBMT1PTUBHF DO YOU HAVE A STORY TO TELL? ber, e-mail address, ward (or branch) and 1BJEBU4BMU-BLF$JUZ 6UBI Can you tell us about a time that family prayer made a difference in your day? How stake (or district). To change address:4FOECPUIPMEBOE PLEASE SUBMIT ARTICLES through OFXBEESFTTJOGPSNBUJPOUP%JTUSJCVUJPO has maintaining consistent habits of holding 4FSWJDFTBUUIFBCPWFBEESFTT1MFBTFBMMPX family prayer blessed your family over time? ensign.lds.org, or send them to Ensign Edi- EBZTGPSDIBOHFTUPUBLFFGGFDU Please label your submission “Family Prayer” torial, 50 E. North Temple St., Rm. 2420, , UT, 84150-3220, USA. We regret 5FYUBOEWJTVBM and submit it by February 19. Copyright information: that we cannot acknowledge receipt or NBUFSJBMJOUIFEnsignNBZCFDPQJFEGPS We also welcome submissions on other JODJEFOUBM OPODPNNFSDJBMDIVSDIPSIPNF topics showing the gospel of Jesus Christ at return manuscripts. Authors whose work is VTF7JTVBMNBUFSJBMNBZOPUCFDPQJFEJG work in your life. On each submission, please selected for publication will be notified. SFTUSJDUJPOTBSFJOEJDBUFEJOUIFDSFEJUMJOF XJUIUIFBSUXPSL$PQZSJHIURVFTUJPOT TIPVMECFBEESFTTFEUP*OUFMMFDUVBM1SPQFSUZ SUBSCRIBE TO OR RENEW THE ENSIGN MAGAZINE 0GGJDF &/PSUI5FNQMF4USFFU 4BMU -BLF$JUZ 65FNBJM Online: Go to ldscatalog.com. By phone: Call 1-800-537-5971 to . [email protected] order using Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or American Express. POSTMASTER:4FOEBEESFTTDIBOHFTUP By mail: Send $10 U.S. check or money order to Distribution %JTUSJCVUJPO4FSWJDFT 10#PY 4BMU -BLF$JUZ 65 64" Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. Canada Post Information:1VCMJDBUJPO "HSFFNFOU January 2010

FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE

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

HoldA LITTLE LONGER on One of the enduring lessons of the Kirtland period is that our spirits need constant nourishment. We need to stay close to the Lord every day if we are to survive the adversity that we all must face.

ast summer my wife and I the plan of salvation, took our twin grandsons authority, the Word of Wisdom, to Kirtland, Ohio. It was a tithing, the temple, and the law of Lspecial and precious opportunity consecration. 1 for us to spend time with them It was a period of unparalleled before they left on their missions. spiritual growth. Indeed, the Spirit During our visit there, we of God like a fire was burning. learned to better understand the Moses, Elijah, and many other circumstances of the Prophet heavenly beings appeared during this time, and the Saints who lived in Kirtland. That era including our Heavenly Father and His Son, of Church history is known as a time of severe the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ. 2 trials but also supreme blessings. One of the many revelations Joseph

BY DEL PARSON; PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTINA SMITH PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DEL PARSON; In Kirtland the Lord bestowed some of received in Kirtland was a revelation he called the most remarkable heavenly manifestations the “olive leaf . . . plucked from the Tree of and spiritual gifts this world has ever expe- Paradise, and the Lord’s message of peace to rienced. Sixty-five sections of the Doctrine us” (introduction to D&C 88). This remarkable and Covenants were received in Kirtland and revelation includes the sublime invitation, surrounding areas—revelations that brought “Draw near unto me and I will draw near new light and knowledge about topics such unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find

THE LORD APPEARS IN THE KIRTLAND TEMPLE, THE LORD APPEARS IN KIRTLAND as the Second Coming, caring for the needy, me” (D&C 88:63). As the Saints of Kirtland

January 2010 5 FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE

drew near unto the Lord, He truly did draw near unto (1814–1901), later to be President of the them, pouring out the blessings of heaven upon the heads Church, was living in Kirtland during this blessed period. of the faithful. He observed, “One would have imagined that after receiv- ing these wonderful manifestations no temptation could A Spiritual Outpouring have overthrown the Saints.” 5 Perhaps the culmination of these spiritual manifestations But, of course, great spiritual experiences do not make occurred during the dedication of the Kirtland Temple us exempt from opposition and trials. Just a few months on March 27, 1836. One of those present was 28-year- after the temple dedication, a widespread economic old William Draper, who described the day as a “day of crisis shook the United States, and Kirtland felt the effects Pentecost.” He wrote: “There was such a time of the out- deeply. Banks failed, leaving many in diffi cult fi nancial pouring of the Spirit of the Lord, that my pen is inadequate straits. To make matters worse, many of the Saints who to write it in full or my tongue to express it. But I will here were immigrating to Kirtland came with very few material say that the Spirit was poured out and came like a mighty possessions, not knowing what they would do once they rushing wind and fi lled the house, that many that were arrived or how they would survive. present spoke in tongues and had visions and saw angels Before long, persecutions arose and mobs formed and prophesied, and had a general time of rejoicing such against the Saints. Members of the Church—even some of as had not been known in this generation.” 3 those closest to the Prophet, many of whom were present These spiritual manifestations were not limited only to at the dedication of the temple—apostatized and con- those inside the temple, for “the people of the neighbor- demned Joseph as a fallen prophet. hood came running together (hearing an unusual sound As I walked near the Kirtland Temple with my wife and within, and seeing a bright light like a pillar of fi re rest- grandsons, I pondered how tragic it was that some could ing upon the Temple), and were astonished at what was not remain faithful even after the spiritual manifestations taking place.” 4 they had witnessed. How sorrowful it was that they could not endure the ridicule and criticism of disbelievers. How sad that, when faced with fi nancial trial or other struggles, they could not have reached inside themselves and found the strength to remain faithful. How unfortunate it was that they somehow lost sight of the miraculous spiritual harvest at the dedication of the temple.

The Lessons What can we learn from this remarkable era in the history of the Church? One of the great, enduring lessons of the Kirtland period is that our spirits need constant nourishment. As President Harold B. Lee (1899–1973) taught: “Testimony isn’t something that you have today and you keep always. Testimony is either going to grow and grow to the bright- ness of certainty, or it is going to diminish to nothingness, depending upon what we do about it. I say, the testimony

6 Ensign that we recapture day by day is the thing that saves us from the pitfalls of the adversary.” 6 We need to stay close to the Lord every day if we are to survive the adversity that we all must face. In some ways our world today is similar to Kirtland of the 1830s. We too live in times of fi nancial distress. There are those who persecute and rail against the Church and its members. Individual and collective trials may sometimes seem overwhelming. That is when we need, more than ever, to draw near unto the Lord. As we do, we will come to know what it means to have the Lord draw near unto us. As we seek Him ever more diligently, we will surely fi nd Him. We will see As we seek the Lord ever more diligently, we will surely clearly that the Lord does not abandon His Church or His faithful Saints. Our eyes will be fi nd Him. Our eyes will be opened, and we will see opened, and we will see Him open the win- Him open the windows of heaven and shower us with dows of heaven and shower us with more of more of His light. His light. We will fi nd the spiritual strength to survive even during the darkest night. Although some of the Saints in Kirtland lost

sight of the spiritual experiences they had, existence of our beautiful planet earth. You most did not. The majority, including William have a celestial pedigree and therefore have Draper, held fast to the spiritual knowledge all the necessary talents to make your life an God had given them and continued to follow eternal success story. the Prophet. Along the way they experienced The Lord has blessed you with a testimony more bitter trials but also more sweet spiritual of the truth. You have felt His infl uence and growth until, ultimately, those who endured witnessed His power. And if you continue to the end were “received into . . . a state of to seek Him, He will continue to grant you never-ending happiness” (Mosiah 2:41). sacred experiences. With these and other spir- itual gifts, you will be able not only to change You Can Hold On your own life for the better but also to bless If ever you are tempted to become discour- your homes, wards or branches, communities, aged or to lose faith, remember those faithful cities, states, and nations with your goodness. Saints who remained true in Kirtland. Hold on It may be hard to see that at times, but a little longer. You can do this! You are part of hold on a little longer, for “eye hath not seen, a special generation. You were prepared and nor ear heard, neither have entered into the

PHOTOGRAPH OF KIRTLAND TEMPLE BY WELDEN C. ANDERSEN; PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT CASEY BY ROBERT TEMPLE BY WELDEN C. ANDERSEN; PHOTO ILLUSTRATION PHOTOGRAPH OF KIRTLAND preserved to live at this important time in the heart of man, the things which God hath

January 2010 7 FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE

prepared for them that love him” and wait for YOUTH Him (1 Corinthians 2:9; see also D&C 76:10; 133:45). Strengthening Your Testimony I bear witness of the truth of the restored ake this self-evaluation quiz to help you think about how you gospel of Jesus Christ and the truth of this, Tare doing in strengthening your testimony: His Church. I testify with all my heart and ê%P*EFTJSFUPCFMJFWF soul that God lives, that Jesus Christ is His ê%P*GBTUBOEQSBZGPSBTUSPOHFSUFTUJNPOZ Son and stands at the head of this great ê%P*SFBEBOEQPOEFSUIFTDSJQUVSFTFBDIEBZ Church. We have a prophet on the earth ê%P*USZUPLFFQUIFDPNNBOENFOUTFBDIEBZ again, even President Thomas S. Monson. ê%P*USZUPGPMMPXQSPNQUJOHTGSPNUIF May we ever remember the lesson of )PMZ(IPTU ê%P*CFBSNZUFTUJNPOZXIFOQSPNQUFEUPEPTP Kirtland and hold on a little longer—even when things look bleak. Know and remember this: the Lord loves you. He remembers you. CHILDREN And He will ever sustain those who “endure in faith to the end” (D&C 20:25). Drawing Near to the Lord NOTES 1. See, for example, sections 45; 56; 76; 84; 89; 97; and n Kirtland, Ohio, the Prophet Joseph Smith received a 104. revelation. The Lord told him, “Draw near unto me and 2. See D&C 76:23; 110:2–4, 11–13 . I 3. William Draper, “A Biographical Sketch of the Life and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall fi nd Travels and Birth and Parentage of William Draper” (1881), typescript, Church History Library, 2; spelling me” ( D&C 88:63 ). One way we can draw near to the Lord is and capitalization standardized.

by following His prophet. 4. History of the Church, 2:428. 5. Lorenzo Snow, “Discourse,” Deseret Weekly News, June Match each picture below with the things President 8, 1889, 26. 6. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee Thomas S. Monson has asked us to do. (2000), 43.

IDEAS FOR TEACHING Pray FROM THIS MESSAGE fter prayerfully studying this message, Be kind ADPOTJEFSUIFOFFETPGUIPTFZPVUFBDI  BOEDIPPTFQPJOUTPSQBTTBHFTGSPNUIFNFT Work hard to learn sage that you feel will be most useful to them. 5IF)PMZ(IPTUDBOIFMQZPVQSFQBSFBOE Help others UFBDIUIFNFTTBHF TFF%$à  In addition to sharing your own testimony, Share your you may feel impressed to ask the people testimony ZPVUFBDIUPTIBSFFYQFSJFODFTPSUFTUJNPOJFT Read the JGUIFZXJTI 'PSPUIFSUFBDIJOHJEFBT TFF scriptures Teaching, No Greater Call

REIER BY MATTHEW PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY STEVE KROPP; RIGHT: BY CRAIG DIMOND; ILLUSTRATIONS PHOTO ILLUSTRATION LEFT:

8 Ensign VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE

Becoming Self-Reliant

Teach these scriptures be self-reliant and independent. and quotations or, if Salvation can be obtained on no needed, another prin- other principle. Salvation is an indi- ciple that will bless the vidual matter, and we must work out sisters you visit. Bear testimony of the our own salvation in temporal as doctrine. Invite those you visit to share well as in spiritual things.’ . . . what they have felt and learned. “President Spencer W. Kimball [1895–1985] further taught concern- What Is Self-Reliance? ing self-reliance: ‘The responsibility “‘Self-reliance means using all of for each person’s social, emotional, our blessings from Heavenly Father spiritual, physical, or economic to care for ourselves and our families well-being rests fi rst upon himself, and to fi nd solutions for our own second upon his family, and third problems.’ Each of us has a responsi- upon the Church if he is a faithful bility to try to avoid problems before member thereof.’” 3 ◼ they happen and to learn to over- President Thomas S. Monson. come challenges when they occur. . . . can we truly emulate the Savior in NOTES “How do we become self-reliant? serving and blessing others. 1. “The Welfare Responsibilities of the Relief We become self-reliant through “It is important to understand that Society President,” Basic Principles of Welfare and Self-Reliance (2009), 4–5. obtaining suffi cient knowledge, self-reliance is a means to an end. 2. “A Gospel Vision of Welfare: Faith in Action,” Basic Principles of Welfare and education, and literacy; by managing Our ultimate goal is to become like Self-Reliance (2009), 1–2. money and resources wisely, being the Savior, and that goal is enhanced 3. “Guiding Principles of Personal and Family Welfare,” Liahona, Feb. 1987, 3; Ensign, spiritually strong, preparing for emer- by our unselfi sh service to others. Sept. 1986, 3. gencies and eventualities; and by Our ability to serve is increased or having physical health and social and diminished by the level of our self- emotional well-being.” 1 reliance.” 2 Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum president. of the Twelve Apostles. HELPS FOR VISITING TEACHING As a visiting teacher, you can seek A Gospel Responsibility “Self-reliance is a product of personal inspiration to know how to best respond to the needs of those you “As we live providently and increase our work and undergirds all other are assigned to watch over. Then focus our gifts and talents, we become more welfare practices. It is an essential your efforts on strengthening each self-reliant. Self-reliance is taking element in our spiritual as well as sister’s faith and family. responsibility for our own spiritual and our temporal well-being. Regarding PERSONAL PREPARATION temporal welfare and for those whom this principle, President Marion G. Genesis 3:19 Heavenly Father has entrusted to our Romney [1897–1988] has said: ‘Let Matthew 6:33 care. Only when we are self-reliant us work for what we need. Let us D&C 82:18–19; 109:8

see providentliving.org, All Is Safely Gathered In: Family Finances (item no. 04007), and All Is Safely Gathered In: Family Home Storage (item no. 04008).

JanuaryJanuary 2010 2010 39

YOUR GUIDE TO USING THE

By Don L. Searle Items on the Menu Church Magazines One of our challenges is to The magazine offers a spiritual banquet for serve a wide range of readers, from young readers each month. You can enjoy it better single adults to elderly widows or widowers, married couples, and readers from different ethnic and cultural back- if you know how to fi nd your favorite items grounds. The magazine, as directed by Church leaders, sup- on the menu. ports the family in its divine, eternal design—father, mother, ften at the Ensign we receive letters asking, “Would and children—as outlined in “The Family: A Proclamation you please do an article about ______?” We to the World” ( Ensign , Nov. 1995, 102). Yet we know that a consider and respond to those requests because signifi cant portion of adult Church members are not married, Oour job is to serve the spiritual needs of readers. But some- and many do not live in a family that matches this model. times we fi nd that the magazine has recently run an item or Although we are not able to address each segment of our items on the requested topics, and readers, for one reason readership every month, we believe that a majority of the or another, may have missed those articles. articles in the magazine apply to every member, single or In this article, we will try to help you by pointing out married, old or young. We seek articles that teach universal where you can fi nd items on many of the topics that interest gospel principles. In this issue, for example, please see you. And along the way, we’ll point out a few new features “The Best Is Yet to Be,” on page 22, by Elder Jeffrey R.

you will fi nd in the Ensign starting this month. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. STOKER PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID

10 Ensign

How to Read the Menu contents or start from the back of the In the Ensign ’s monthly magazine, there’s still help in identi- table of contents, titles convey fying topics of interest. The fi rst page a general idea of what an article of each feature article contains an covers. We also add a “teaser.” introductory sentence or two summa- For example, “The Courage to rizing the theme of the article. See, for Comfort,” on page 52: “When example, “Being Independent, Being my mother died, I needed com- Prepared,” on page 62. The introduc- fort and understanding. Here are tion at the beginning says, “How some some things that helped me.” young adults are applying principles Some of the articles or items of preparedness to their busy, mobile you like best, such as Latter- lives.” The article relates experiences sin- day Saint Voices, may be listed gle adults have had with home storage under Departments in the table Above: The table and other aspects of provident living. of contents can be of contents. your menu as you Many of the longer pieces in the magazine consider what you New This Month are listed under Feature Articles. But if you’re want to savor in You’ll see a few new items in the Ensign this one of those readers who skip over the table of the magazine. month. Some of them were developed for the

January 2010 11 JANUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY SEPTEMBER NOVEMBER

Liahona , the Church’s international magazine, and will be carried in the Ensign as well: WHAT TO EXPECT EACH MONTH We Talk of Christ —doctrine about the Savior or a he Ensign tries to maintain a focus on certain topics testimony of Him and His infl uence in our lives. Tregularly—on material supporting personal spiri- Serving in the Church —counsel and examples of tual growth and supporting the family. You may expect how we can serve better in Church callings and in our to see certain topics covered in specifi c months. For personal opportunities to touch other lives. example, each January when adult and youth classes What We Believe —brief explanation of basic gospel are beginning a new course of study, the magazine will doctrine, designed to help us as members understand the have an article on the year’s Sunday School curriculum. doctrine better and help us explain our beliefs to others. In this issue, for example, please see “Moses, My Son,” Small and Simple Things —a section of factual infor- by Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Presidency of the mation about the Church today and its history. Seventy, page 42. Family Home Evening Ideas —thoughts and sugges- There will also be an article on the priesthood and tions you could consider as you prepare for family home Relief Society course of study; for example, you may evening. But remember that the best preparation is to ask enjoy in this issue the introduction to the new Gospel for the Lord’s help, through the Holy Ghost, in tailoring a Principles manual on page 28 by Elder Russell M.

lesson to meet your family’s needs. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. SIMEON REVERENCING THE CHRIST CHILD, GREG K. OLSEN; PHOTOGRAPH ES BY JED A. CLARK; PAINTING,

Until We Meet Again —a brief personal essay offering Following is a list of some topics that are covered in BROTHER JOSEPH, CARL FREDRICH BLOCH; PHOTOGRAPH OF CONFERENCE CENTER BY CRAIG DIMOND; PAINTING, spiritual insights. specifi c months.

ê+BOVBSZá*OUSPEVDUJPOUPUIFBEVMUDVSSJDVMBGPSUIF year; improving gospel teaching ê.BSDIá5IFIJTUPSZBOEJOČ VFODFPG3FMJFG4PDJFUZ and women in the Church; topics of special interest to sisters ê "QSJMá5IF3FTVSSFDUJPOBOESPMFTPG+FTVT$ISJTU (when Easter falls in this month) ê.BZáHFOFSBMDPOGFSFODFUBMLTBOEOFXT ê+VOFá+PTFQI4NJUIBOEIJTNJTTJPO ê+VMZá$IVSDIIJTUPSZBOEQJPOFFSJOH ê4FQUFNCFSáJNQSPWJOHUFBDIJOHFEVDBUJPOBOE MFBSOJOH#PPLPG.PSNPO ê/PWFNCFSáHFOFSBMDPOGFSFODFUBMLT

and news Above: “What We ê%FDFNCFSáUIFCJSUIBOE Believe” mission of Jesus Christ Right: “Until We

Meet Again” PHOTOGRAPHS OF PEOPLE BY DAVID STOKER; PAINTING, FULNESS OF TIME-MOSES, BY GREG K. OLSEN; PAINTING DETAIL; CHRIST WITH BOY, BY CHRIST WITH BOY, DETAIL; FULNESS OF TIME-MOSES, BY GREG K. OLSEN; PAINTING STOKER; PAINTING, PHOTOGRAPHS OF PEOPLE BY DAVID BY DAVID LINDSLEY; PHOTOGRAPH OF 1997 WAGON TRAIN, YELLOW CREEK, , BY WELDEN C. ANDERSEN; PHOTOGRAPH OF SIMULATED GOLD PLAT BY WELDEN C. ANDERSEN; PHOTOGRAPH OF SIMULATED TRAIN, YELLOW CREEK, UTAH, PHOTOGRAPH OF 1997 WAGON LINDSLEY; BY DAVID LEISHMAN OF CELL PHONE BY EMILY

12 Ensign DECEMBER You can usually expect to see certain topics covered in the ensign.lds.org magazine in specifi c months.

Want to Write an Article? We are glad to receive contributions from readers. Your FINDING WHAT YOU WANT ONLINE best opportunity to contribute may be in sharing spiritual here are several ways you can look for material insights that have come through personal experiences. T on specifi c topics in the Ensign online. There are a couple of things to remember that may ê(PUP ensign.lds.org . There are links to the monthly help make your article more useful and appealing: (1) First Presidency and visiting teaching messages, to the Church magazines’ audience is worldwide, including other articles, and to information on how to sub- readers who may not understand the culture and circum- scribe or submit material to the magazine. You can stances familiar to you; and (2) ordinarily, articles inter- reach the same page by going to LDS.org, selecting preting doctrine are written by those called and sustained Gospel Library, then Magazines, then from the left- to positions of general leadership in the Church. hand pane select Ensign. Please submit your story, article, poem, artwork, or ê:PVDBOTFMFDUFJUIFS1BTU*TTVFTPS4FBSDI Ensign to photograph electronically if possible by going to begin your search. Select Past Issues if you know the ensign.lds.org and clicking on Submit Your Material. date of the item you are seeking. You will be able to You can also mail typewritten submissions to Ensign select the year of publication, then the month, then Editorial, 50 E. North Temple Street, Room 2420, Salt Lake the name of the article from the table of contents for City, UT 84150-0024, USA. Include your name, address, that month. telephone number, e-mail address, ward (or branch), and ê4FMFDU Search Ensign from the left-hand pane to look stake (or district). Send a self-addressed stamped envelope for material by topic. You will be able to enter key if you want your material returned. ◼ words in a search box to bring up a list of articles on a topic, or to look for a particular article. The more specifi c your key words, the more likely you are to fi nd the desired article. For example, entering “ pride cleansing” immediately turns up

BMJOLUPå$MFBOTJOHUIF*OOFS7FTTFM æCZ1SFTJEFOU Benson in the May 1986 magazine. ê8PVMEZPVMJLFUPTFFUIFBSUJDMFBTJUMPPLFEPO the magazine page? From the LDS.org home page, select Gospel Library, then Media Formats, then PDF. Click on the Ensign magazine and you will then be able to select a year as far back as 2001. After you click on a year, click on the cover of a magazine. You will see a larger picture of that cover with a table of contents pane on the MFGUPGZPVSTDSFFO*OUIBUUBCMFPG contents, you will fi nd a link to the fi rst page of the article you want.

Submission form from Ensign.lds.org

January 2010 13 WHAT WE BELIEVE

IS TRULY OUR

FATHER 1. We are created in God’s image (see Moses 2:26).

GOD GOD IS OUR FATHER IN HEAVEN, to the other—This is My Beloved Doctrines THE FATHER OF OUR SPIRITS. In Son. Hear Him!” ( Joseph that testify the Godhead with Him are Jesus Smith—History 1:17). of God the Christ and the Holy Ghost. They On February 16, 1832, the Father: are distinct beings with distinct Prophet and roles but are one in purpose. This received a revelation. To intro- truth, along with many others, duce the revelation, they testi- was lost after the deaths of Jesus fi ed of Jesus Christ and God the Christ and His Apostles, during a Father: “And now after the many Ways period known as the Apostasy. testimonies which have been we can The Lord began to restore given of [ Jesus Christ], this is the come to these lost truths in the spring of testimony, last of all, which we know our 1820, when 14-year-old Joseph give of him: That he lives! For Heavenly Smith prayed in a grove of trees we saw him, even on the right Father: near his home in Manchester hand of God; and we heard the Township, New York, to know voice bearing record that he is 1. Feast on the scriptures which church to join. In answer the Only Begotten of the Father” (see 2 Nephi 32:3). to his prayer, he saw God the (D&C 76:22–23). Father and Jesus Christ. The Prophet Joseph Smith later wrote of this vision: “One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing

Take time to gaze into the heavens, where the courses of the stars and planets are evidence of “God moving in his majesty and power” (see D&C 88:41–47).

14 Ensign 2. God is the Supreme Creator, and “all things 3. God is our Heavenly 4. God the Father has a 5. Our Heavenly Father denote there is a God” Father, a literal spiritual tangible body of fl esh and gave us the plan of salvation (Alma 30:44). parent (see Hebrews 12:9). 1 bones (see D&C 130:22). (see Alma 34:9).

2. Come to know Jesus 3. Obey God’s command- Christ (see John 14:9). ments and follow the prophets (see John 14:21; D&C 1:38).

THE FIRST VISION,

“Believe in God; believe that he 4. With faith, pray to God in the name of Jesus Christ is, and that he created all things, (see James 1:5; 3 Nephi 18:20). NOTE both in heaven and in earth; 1. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: believe that he has all wisdom, Joseph Smith (2007), 39. and all power, both in heaven and in earth” (Mosiah 4:9).

LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH OF PLANET COURTESY OF NASA/JPL; PHOTOGRAPH OF STARS OF NASA/JPL; PHOTOGRAPH STARS PHOTOGRAPH OF PLANET COURTESY LEFT: BY PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BARRETT; T. BY ROBERT © NASA AND STSCI; ILLUSTRATION GALLI; ILLUSTRATION OF ANIMALS BY STANLEY PAINTING RIGHT: WEI-HSIANG WANG; FROM MANN; DETAIL WITH CHILDREN BY PAUL FATHER OF HEAVENLY BY DEL PARSON; PHOTO ILLUSTRATION OF FAMILY BY WELDEN C. ANDERSEN; PHOTO OF FAMILY PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DEL PARSON; OF MAN BY WELDEN C. ANDERSEN; PHOTOGRAPH PRESIDENT ILLUSTRATION OF WOMAN BY RUTH SIPUS MONSON BY CRAIG DIMOND; PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

To learn more about our basic beliefs, visit Mormon.org (available in many languages).

January 2010 15 WE TALK OF CHRIST

Wa lkTHROUGH ing THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW By Michael OF DEATH R. Blair

n recent months I have been particularly drawn to Psalm 23 because I am, in fact, walking “through the valley of the shadow Iof death” (verse 4). Being diagnosed with a rare form of lymphoma with an uncertain prognosis has been sobering, to say the least. But I’ve felt great hope in my Savior. He truly has been with me to teach and comfort me. Here are a few things I’ve learned:

Н)JTUFBDIJOHTBSFBQBUUFSOGPSIBQQZMJWJOH My greatest joy has been in serving others— the way the Savior spent His life. Of course, any good that I have done pales in compari- son with what He did for us. He asks only that we do “all we can do” ( 2 Nephi 25:23 ). Н5IF-PSELOPXTXIBUJUJTUPTVGGFS"MNB LINN BY DAVID teaches us that Jesus suffered “pains and affl ic- tions and temptations of every kind” so that He can succor us. Whatever I have felt, am now REMEMBER THESE, feeling, or will yet feel, He knows what it is like. Н5IF4BWJPSДTHSBDFJTTVGԣDJFOUGPSBMMPGVT Н'BJUIJO)JNJTQPXFSGVM#FMJFWJOHJONJSBDMFT We often look back at our lives and hope and the power of the priesthood is important. the good outweighs the bad. I am starting to #VUGBJUITVGԣDJFOUUPBDDFQUUIF'BUIFSДTXJMM VOEFSTUBOEUIBUUIF"UPOFNFOUJTOPUTPNF TFF+PIO NBZCFUIFNPTUJNQPSUBOUGBDUPS UIJOHXFFBSO*UJTBHJGUGSFFMZHJWFO5IF in recovery. I am confi dent that whatever God’s -PSEДTHSBDFJTSFBM BOEJUJTTVGԣDJFOUUPQBZ will is regarding my disease will be right. debts that we cannot.

16 Ensign PHOTOGRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY JED CLARK PHOTOGRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION

Believing in miracles and the power of the priesthood is important. But faith suffi cient to accept the Father’s will may be more important.

I do not believe that my illness is a punishment from ould you like to share how Jesus Christ has touched your God. Instead, this is a time for me to learn to be depen- Wlife? We welcome accounts of your gospel experiences relating to the Savior’s ministry and mission as well as insights dent on Him and His Son. Regardless of the outcome of on the mission of the Son of God. Possible topics might include this dreadful disease, I am grateful that God has not—that the Atonement, grace, healing, hope, or repentance. Please He will never—give up on me. Perhaps our tests are yet limit submissions to 500 words, label them “We Talk of Christ,” another chance for us to seek after Him and to come to and submit them at [email protected] . Him through His Son, Jesus Christ. ◼

January 2010 17

COMING TO MY

Ancestors By Louise Skyles Another challenge’ Aid was that because both of I was amazed at the guidance my parents were adopted, it would be diffi cult I received as I searched for my to research my biological ancestral lines. Eventually, I was able to collect four gener- Chinese ancestors. ations of my father’s adoptive parents’ line. By efore I joined the Church I would often then my brother had joined the Church, and look up at the sky when I was alone I asked him to submit this information to the and feel that there were people there Taipei Taiwan Temple. But the temple workers Bwho loved me and wanted me to reunite with told him the information was incomplete and them in a wonderful place. Later, after I joined couldn’t be submitted. We knew we needed to the Church, I started wondering if those people do more before we could proceed. were my ancestors and if this wonderful place was heaven. My Turning Point When I was 22 years old, I received my One night, however, I dreamed that a group patriarchal blessing. When the patriarch placed of people dressed in white came toward me his hands upon my head, I could feel Heavenly and asked, “Why haven’t you done the work Father’s love pouring into my heart. My blessing for us as you promised?” I woke up in the mid- described the work I would do as I searched dle of the night and realized that these people out and united my ancestors through temple were my ancestors. ordinances. Then in the summer of 1999 my brother I didn’t do much about this at the time. I was to be married in Taiwan. I was living was the only member of the Church in my in the United States and had a family of my family, and because of a lack of understand- own, but I made arrangements to return to ing, my parents—especially my mother— Taiwan for the wedding. My friend encour-

did not want me to “disturb” our ancestors. aged me to pray for an opportunity to learn BY DILLEEN MARSH ILLUSTRATIONS

18 Ensign

more about my ancestors, since many relatives would be at the wedding. When I arrived, I found that my father’s biological brother had come for the wedding. This was surprising because my father’s biological family lived far away and our family had little contact with them. I begged my father to ask his brother for any information about our ancestors. Amazingly, my uncle said that in their ancestral temple there was a book containing the records of our ancestors going back 4,000 years. Unfortunately, my father would not be able to go inside that fam- ily temple because he had been adopted out of the family, and only direct family members were allowed to go in. I asked my father if one of his relatives could get me a copy of the book. He said he would try to call his nephew, who lived only a couple of hours away from that location. I had only one week before I returned to America, and my father said he didn’t know whether his nephew could do it for me in one week. But I was constantly praying that a way would be opened, and I asked him to make the call.

January 2010 19 One night, however, I dreamed that a group of people dressed in white came toward me and asked, “Why haven’t you done the work for us as you promised?”

Three or four days later, I received a copy of all the records. family books to my lines. At one point I calculated that I I found out that my father’s nephew had taken a day off work had connected more than 100,000 names to my ancestral to go to the family shrine and make a copy for me. line. After that I stopped counting. I began to submit the TempleReady electronic fi les to Opening Another Line the San Diego California Temple, which was closest to me M y mother had been reunited with her biological family, at the time. Then the Church released a Chinese version of and I wanted to fi nd information on her side of the family. Just Personal Ancestral File (PAF), and I was able to send the a couple of hours before the wedding, all of the relatives got TempleReady fi les in Chinese, with Romanic translation, together at my parents’ house. I thought I should ask each of to the Taipei Taiwan Temple and the Hong Kong China them if they knew anything about their family history. Temple. As is the procedure, these temples created family Then I remembered that my mother didn’t like me to fi le cards for me from the TempleReady fi les and sent them talk about her ancestors, so I decided to ask my relatives to me. There were far too many for me to fi nish the work after the wedding. But in that moment I felt the prompt- myself—no matter how much I wanted to do it. I knew I ing, “Talk to them right now.” As I turned around, and my would need help. mother and I looked at each other, I thought once again I took the cards to the Portland Oregon Temple (closest about waiting until after the wedding to ask. The prompt- to where I now live) and explained that I needed help. I ing was fi rmly repeated: “Talk to them right now!” I knew left them at the temple. After hearing of my dilemma, the I had to listen to the Spirit and ask them immediately. temple president called and said that while he was looking It turned out that one of my uncles owned a book that at the cards, he felt impressed that many of my ancestors contained the records of 120 generations of my mother’s had already accepted the gospel. So he proposed an idea: family. He said someone had sold it to him for a couple of he would call my stake president and ask him to help me dollars, and he agreed to make me a copy. do the ordinances for my ancestors by arranging a special Later, I learned why the Spirit had prompted me so strongly stake temple day. This occurred on November 12, 2004. to talk to them before the wedding. When I awoke the next I have received so much help from people in my stake morning, I was surprised to learn that they had all left early and other stakes as well. I believe the Lord is blessing the that morning to return home. If I had waited to ask them people who have come to my family’s aid. I am so grateful about our family history, I would have missed my chance. to be able to help my ancestors with the work they are not able to do for themselves. I believe that one day I will The Last Steps reunite with them and we will enjoy the blessings of salva- Since then I have spent much of my time reading tion together as a family, just as I envisioned when I used Chinese microfi lm and connecting the names in many to look up at the sky those many years ago. ◼

20 Ensign OUR HOMES, OUROUR HOMES, FAMILIES OUR FAMILIES HOW WE LEARNED By Lidia Evgenevna Shmakova ABOUT HAPPINESS

always thought we had a strong family. Our three boys During change in our hearts, becoming I and two girls were normal children, and we had nor- perestroika, children of Christ (see Mosiah mal problems with them. Sometimes when they would life was 5:7 ). It was a huge transforma- act up, I would get angry. Later I would think to myself, tion for me. Before becoming a “Why did you get so mad at them?” terribly Latter-day Saint, when I thought I didn’t know then that perestroika —a period of polit- hard, and about death, an unbearable grief ical and economic change—was beginning in Russia. I our family gripped my heart and soul. It didn’t know that goods would disappear from the shelves was falling took every bit of strength I had of all the stores, that for months and later for years, we apart. Then to repel those thoughts from me. would not receive paychecks. Life became very diffi - Now I have peace in my soul. cult. We had struggles, and my husband and I were on we met the I’ve learned that happiness the brink of divorce. There came an epidemic of drug missionaries, comes in different forms. It can use, and one of our sons got involved. It seemed that and slowly be found in the blackest thunder- the sun didn’t shine in our windows anymore. I didn’t we began to clouds or when the earth is with- know whom to pray to, but still I asked God for help. We rebuild. ering from heat. It is also in the fought with all our strength, and little by little we pulled warm rays of the sun in the midst out of this bog. of pouring rain. It is in the fi rst In the summer of 1998, missionaries found us. Our lives green leaf of spring peeping out changed 180 degrees as we headed in a new direction. of the cracked bud of a poplar tree. It is in the little white Within fi ve years we had attended the temple and had petal working itself out on a branch of an apple tree. It is

been sealed as a family for eternity. in the darkness of the night sky with thousands of twin- When our middle son served a full-time mission in the kling stars. It is in the tender look of a loved one. Czech Republic, he wrote to us in every letter, “Stay fi rm It looks out through shining eyes in family photographs. and faithful. Together we are the happiest family.” Even my Happiness also comes to me when I do something friends would tell me I must be the happiest woman in the good for someone else. It warms my soul with a gentle world to have so many children and grandchildren and to fl ame when I pray to our Heavenly Father. Sometimes, know I will never be plagued with loneliness. when I think I want something more, I remember that I Looking back, I realize that like the people who need to learn to value what I have—the Lord Himself gave

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE SHMAKOVA FAMILY FAMILY OF THE SHMAKOVA PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY heard King Benjamin, our family experienced a mighty it all to me. ◼

January 2010 21

Faith builds on the past but never longs to stay there. Faith trusts that God has great things in store for each of us.

By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

IS YET TO BE Look ahead and remember that faith The Bestis always pointed toward the future.

he start of a new year is the to be destroyed. “Escape for thy traditional time to take stock life,” the Lord said. “Look not behind of our lives and see where thee . . . ; escape to the mountain, Twe are going, measured against the lest thou be consumed” (Genesis backdrop of where we have been. I 19:17; emphasis added). don’t want to talk about New Year’s With less than immediate resolutions, but I do want to talk obedience and more than a little about the past and the future, with negotiation, Lot and his family an eye toward any time of transition ultimately did leave town but just and change in our lives—and those in the nick of time. The scrip- moments come virtually every day. tures tell us what happened at As Lot and his family left

, BY PAUL GUSTAVE DORÉ GUSTAVE , BY PAUL As a scriptural theme for this Jerusalem, Lot’s wife looked daybreak the morning following discussion, I have chosen Luke back and was turned to a their escape: pillar of salt for disobeying 17:32, where the Savior cautions, “The Lord rained upon Sodom the Lord (see Genesis 19:26). “Remember Lot’s wife.” What did He and upon Gomorrah brimstone mean by such an enigmatic little phrase? To fi nd and fi re from the Lord out of heaven;

THE DESTRUCTION OF SODOM out, we need to do as He suggested. Let’s recall “And he overthrew those cities” (Genesis who Lot’s wife was. 19:24–25). ; RIGHT: ; RIGHT: The story, of course, comes to us out of the My theme comes in the next verse. Surely, with days of Sodom and Gomorrah, when the Lord, the Lord’s counsel—“look not behind thee”—ring- having had as much as He could stand of the ing clearly in her ears, Lot’s wife, the record says, worst that men and women could do, told Lot and “looked back,” and she was turned into a pillar of his family to fl ee because those cities were about salt (see verse 26). PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY MATTHEW REIER BY MATTHEW PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS

January 2010 23

Just what did Lot’s wife do that was Paul taught, looked back; she looked back longingly. In so wrong? As a student of history, I have “This one thing short, her attachment to the past outweighed thought about that and offer a partial answer. I do, forgetting her confi dence in the future. That, apparently, Apparently, what was wrong with Lot’s wife those things was at least part of her sin. was that she wasn’t just looking back; in her which are heart she wanted to go back. It would appear Faith Points to the Future behind, and that even before she was past the city limits, As a new year begins and we try to ben- reaching forth she was already missing what Sodom and efi t from a proper view of what has gone Gomorrah had offered her. As Elder Neal A. unto those things before, I plead with you not to dwell on days Maxwell (1926–2004) of the Quorum of the which are before, now gone nor to yearn vainly for yesterdays, Twelve Apostles once said, such people know I press toward however good those yesterdays may have they should have their primary residence in the mark for the been. The past is to be learned from but not Zion, but they still hope to keep a summer prize of the high lived in. We look back to claim the embers cottage in Babylon. 1 calling of God in from glowing experiences but not the ashes. It is possible that Lot’s wife looked back Christ Jesus.” And when we have learned what we need to with resentment toward the Lord for what He learn and have brought with us the best that was asking her to leave behind. We certainly we have experienced, then we look ahead know that Laman and Lemuel were resentful and remember that faith is always pointed when Lehi and his family were commanded toward the future. Faith always has to do to leave Jerusalem. So it isn’t just that she with blessings and truths and events that will yet be effi cacious in our lives. So a more theological way to talk about Lot’s wife is to say that she did not have faith. She doubted the Lord’s ability to give her something better than she already had. Apparently, she thought that nothing that lay ahead could possibly be as good as what she was leaving behind. To yearn to go back to a world that cannot be lived in now, to be perennially dissatisfi ed with present circumstances and have only dismal views of the future, and to miss the here and now and tomorrow because we are so trapped in the there and then and yester- day are some of the sins of Lot’s wife. After the Apostle Paul reviewed the privileged and rewarding life of his early years—his birthright, education, and stand-

ing in the Jewish community—he says to the MANN BY PAUL ILLUSTRATION

24 Ensign YOUNG ADULTS

Leaving the Past preparing to enter the temple and in the Past began to reflect on my life to find BY SCOTT GREER ILLUSTRATION where I needed to change to feel pre- Name withheld pared to go to the temple. I realized that even though I didn’t often think hen I was 16, I didn’t get along about what my brother did, I still Wwith my twin brother at all. needed to forgive him. We fought about everything. One day My brother had hurt me more than he humiliated me at school with an anyone else, and I knew it wasn’t intensely critical and personal attack in going to be easy to forgive him. So I front of a group of friends. His actions prayed for help from Heavenly Father. and hurtful words left me devastated in With His help, I decided to start a way my teenage self could not bear. writing my brother regularly on his gave me a hug. He even wrote me a Even when our parents confronted him mission. Before that, I’m sorry to few times. about the incident, he never said he was admit, I hardly wrote him at all. Then I know that even though it may sorry. For years I held onto the pain. I sent him a package. When I left on take time, with Heavenly Father’s He was still on his mission when I my mission, he came with my parents help, we can let the past remain in received my own mission call. I was to the missionary training center and the past.

Philippians that all of that was “dung” compared to his mistakes or the mistakes of others. It is not good. It is not conversion to Christianity. He says, and I paraphrase, “I Christian. It stands in terrible opposition to the grandeur have stopped rhapsodizing about ‘the good old days’ and and majesty of the Atonement of Christ. To be tied to now eagerly look toward the future ‘that I may apprehend earlier mistakes is the worst kind of wallowing in the past that for which Christ apprehended me’” (see Philippians from which we are called to cease and desist. 3:7–12). Then come these verses: I was told once of a young man who for many years “This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are was more or less the brunt of every joke in his school. behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are He had some disadvantages, and it was easy for his before, peers to tease him. Later in his life he moved away. He “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high call- eventually joined the army and had some successful ing of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13–14). experiences there in getting an education and generally No Lot’s wife here. No looking back at Sodom and stepping away from his past. Above all, as many in the Gomorrah here. Paul knows it is out there in the future, up military do, he discovered the beauty and majesty of the ahead wherever heaven is taking us, that we will win “the prize Church and became active and happy in it. of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Then, after several years, he returned to the town of his youth. Most of his generation had moved on but not all. Forgive and Forget Apparently, when he returned quite successful and quite There is something in many of us that particularly fails reborn, the same old mind-set that had existed before to forgive and forget earlier mistakes in life—either our was still there, waiting for his return. To the people in

January 2010 25

his hometown, he was still just old “so-and- Live to see the grasp that for which Christ had grasped so”—you remember the guy who had the miracles of him. And he died sad, though through little problem, the idiosyncrasy, the quirky nature, repentance and fault of his own. and did such and such. And wasn’t it all just forgiveness, That also happens in marriages and other hilarious? of trust and relationships. I can’t tell you the number of Little by little this man’s Pauline effort divine love that couples I have counseled who, when they to leave that which was behind and grasp are deeply hurt or even just deeply stressed, will transform the prize that God had laid before him was reach farther and farther into the past to your life today, gradually diminished until he died about fi nd yet a bigger brick to throw through the way he had lived in his youth. He came tomorrow, and the window “pain” of their marriage. When full circle: again inactive and unhappy and forever. something is over and done with, when it

the brunt of a new generation of jokes. Yet has been repented of as fully as it can be he had had that one bright, beautiful mid- repented of, when life has moved on as it life moment when he had been able to rise should and a lot of other wonderfully good above his past and truly see who he was things have happened since then, it is not and what he could become. Too bad, too right to go back and open some ancient sad that he was again to be surrounded by wound that the Son of God Himself died a whole batch of Lot’s wives, those who to heal. thought his past was more interesting than Let people repent. Let people grow. Believe his future. They managed to rip out of his that people can change and improve. Is that faith? Yes! Is that hope? Yes! Is that charity? Yes! Above all, it is charity, the pure love of Christ. If something is buried in the past, leave it buried. Don’t keep going back with your little sand pail and beach shovel to dig it up, wave it around, and then throw it at someone, saying, “Hey! Do you remember this? ” Splat! Well, guess what? That is probably going to result in some ugly morsel being dug up out of your landfi ll with the reply, “Yeah, I remember it. Do you remember this? ” Splat. And soon enough everyone comes out of that exchange dirty and muddy and unhappy and hurt, when what our Father in Heaven pleads for is cleanliness and kindness and happiness and healing. Such dwelling on past lives, including past mistakes, is just not right! It is not the

26 Ensign

LEARNING FROM THIS ARTICLE hat lessons from the past can guide Wyou in the future? What blessings do you want to exercise faith to receive? gospel of Jesus Christ. In some ways it is worse than Lot’s wife because at least she destroyed only herself. In cases of marriage and family, wards and branches, apart- ments and neighborhoods, we can end up destroying so many others. Perhaps at this beginning of a new year there is no greater requirement for us than to do as the Lord Himself said He does: “He who has repented of his sins, the same Grow old along with me! is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more” The best is yet to be, (D&C 58:42). The proviso, of course, is that repentance has to be sin- The last of life, for which the cere, but when it is and when honest effort is being made first was made: to progress, we are guilty of the greater sin if we keep Our times are in his hand remembering and recalling and rebashing someone with Who saith, “A whole I planned, his or her earlier mistakes—and that someone might be ourselves. We can be so hard on ourselves—often much Youth shows but half; trust God: more so than on others! see all, nor be afraid!” 2 Now, like the Anti-Nephi-Lehies of the Book of Mormon, bury your weapons of war and leave them bur- Some of you may wonder: Is there any future for me? ied (see Alma 24). Forgive and do that which is sometimes What does a new year or a new semester, a new major or harder than to forgive: forget. And when it comes to mind a new romance, a new job or a new home hold for me? again, forget it again. Will I be safe? Will life be sound? Can I trust in the Lord and in the future? Or would it be better to look back, to go The Best Is Yet to Be back, to stay in the past? You can remember just enough to avoid repeating the To all such of every generation, I call out, “Remember mistake, but then put the rest of it all on the dung heap Lot’s wife.” Faith is for the future. Faith builds on the Paul spoke of to the Philippians. Dismiss the destructive, past but never longs to stay there. Faith trusts that and keep dismissing it until the beauty of the Atonement God has great things in store for each of us and that of Christ has revealed to you your bright future and the Christ truly is the “high priest of good things to come” bright future of your family, your friends, and your neigh- (Hebrews 9:11). bors. God doesn’t care nearly as much about where you Keep your eyes on your dreams, however distant and have been as He does about where you are and, with His far away. Live to see the miracles of repentance and for- help, where you are willing to go. That is the thing Lot’s giveness, of trust and divine love that will transform your wife didn’t get—and neither did Laman and Lemuel and a life today, tomorrow, and forever. That is a New Year’s host of others in the scriptures. resolution I ask you to keep. ◼ This is an important matter to consider at the start of a From a University devotional address given on new year—and every day ought to be the start of a new January 13, 2009. For the full text of the address in English, visit http://speeches.byu.edu. year and a new life. Such is the wonder of faith, repen- tance, and the miracle of the gospel of Jesus Christ. NOTES 1. See Neal A. Maxwell, A Wonderful Flood of Light (1990), 47. The poet Robert Browning wrote: 2. Robert Browning, “Rabbi Ben Ezra” (1864), stanza 1.

January 2010 27

By Elder Russell M. Nelson Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

THE NEW Gospel PrinciplesMANUAL

ince 1998 the lesson manuals for in this series. In their place, during the This beautiful Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society volume will be Society classes have been volumes classes on the second and third Sunday a great addition Sof Teachings of Presidents of the Church of each month, we will study the newly (hereafter Teachings). Each manual focused revised Gospel Principles manual. Naturally, to any home on the life and teachings of one of our members may wonder why the change was library as well beloved prophets. These wonderful books made and how it will affect them. The fol- as the Church create an invaluable resource for members lowing are some questions that may come classroom. across the world to come to know and to mind and the answers. love these great men and the marvelous doctrines they taught. Their counsel is as Why the Change in Curriculum? inspiring and pertinent today as it was Since we first began using Teachings, when those Brethren first delivered the millions of people have joined the Church. addresses included in those books. We Many of them have tender testimonies and, hope that you continue to use the inspired with relatively limited experience in the literature of these faithful servants of the Church, will benefit greatly by a focus on Lord. Their teachings are timeless. the fundamentals of the gospel. In addi- Beginning in 2010 we will take a two- tion, all Church members will benefit by a

PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY ROBERT CASEY BY ROBERT PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS year leave from the study of manuals return to the basics. A careful study of core

January 2010 29 doctrines as presented in the new one might think. The Melchizedek and improved Gospel Principles man- Priesthood and Relief Society ual will help members strengthen classes typically will use the man- their understanding of the funda- ual two weeks a month, on the mental teachings of the gospel. second and third Sundays, just The Teachings manuals have as the Teachings manuals have been a wonderful curriculum for our been used. Lessons will follow a

Each section begins with The new Gospel Principles thought-provoking questions manual features color or statements that will aid photographs and individual study and foster illustrations. classroom discussion.

classes and precious additions to our personal libraries. In 2012 we will sequential order in which we will resume the study of the teachings of finish the Gospel Principles manual our great Presidents. in two years. Meanwhile, teachers preparing for the Gospel Principles Teaching suggestions in each How Will This Affect Me? chapter help teachers invite Sunday School class will tailor their The Gospel Principles manual learning and teach by the Spirit. lessons each week to the needs of will be used as the course their class participants. Generally of study for second- and third- speaking, new members, investi- Sunday Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society classes. gators, and members returning to activity will participate It will also be used as the manual for the Gospel Principles in the Gospel Principles class for a period of time deter- Sunday School class for new members, investigators, and mined by them and their bishop or branch president, after members returning to activity. Because of this, some of you which time they will attend the Gospel Doctrine Sunday may wonder if there won’t be some redundancy. Of course School class. there will! Isn’t it wonderful that we can gain the added As with the Teachings manuals, there will be no cost benefit of repetition. Even the Savior taught the same doc- to individuals receiving these new manuals. Each ward or trines multiple times to reinforce concepts. Consider how branch will provide the necessary manuals for its members. often He teaches us through the scriptures to believe and be In some parts of the world, the Melchizedek baptized (see, for example, 3 Nephi 11:23–38)! Priesthood and Relief Society classes have been using Knowing that we need to learn principles line upon line, the books Duties and Blessings of the Priesthood and The precept upon precept, the Lord repeats many concepts so Latter-day Saint Woman instead of Teachings. Published that we do not miss them (see Isaiah 28:10, 13; 2 Nephi 28:30; in 45 languages, the new edition of Gospel Principles will D&C 98:12; 128:21). Such instruction, handled by caring be available in some of these units during the years 2010 teachers who take an interest in the welfare of their class and 2011. Where the new manual is not available, how- members, will help increase faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. ever, the older edition of the Gospel Principles manual In practice, however, there will be less overlap than will still be used.

Find the new Gospel Principles manual online at languages.lds.org.

30 Ensign

How Has the Gospel Principles Manual Changed? Our excellent Gospel Principles manual was fi rst published more than 30 years ago. It has enjoyed wide use in the Church as a manual for Sunday School lessons, for teaching new members about basic gospel principles, and as an important resource in the home. However, the Brethren felt we could improve upon the existing manual and breathe new life into it. The result is a beautiful volume that will be a great addition to any home library as well as the Church classroom. The new edition has several signifi cant features in the design and text: 1. Design The new edition will be increased in size The new and have a new cover similar to the Teachings Gospel Teaching, No Greater Call , the Church’s volumes. We also have updated the design of Principles resource for teacher improvement. The ideas the text to make it easier to read. The visuals manual is are intended to help teachers love those they will be in color. All of this provides a more designed teach, invite diligent learning, and teach the pleasing visual experience that will enhance to enhance doctrine by the Spirit. personal study. teaching in Additionally, questions that begin each 2. Text the home and section in a chapter will help foster discus- The text has been revised to make the sion and direct class members to the content classroom, manual more effective for personal study, within the section. Questions that follow as well as to teacher preparation, and class discussions. each section will help class members ponder, To aid personal study, many of the quotations aid personal discuss, and apply what they have read. and source citations have been updated to study. link this book with the Teachings volumes A Timeless Book that have been published previously. This It is our hope that the new Gospel will allow individuals to learn more from Principles manual will take a prominent place the prophets who are quoted in the Gospel in the homes and lives of all Latter-day Saints. Principles manual. The integration of these The new edition will inspire teaching and manuals will enrich study both in the class- enhance personal study. Brothers and sisters, room and at home. by reinforcing your study of the core doctrines 3. Teaching and Learning Suggestions of the gospel of Jesus Christ, your testimony In each chapter are ideas that will help will grow, your happiness will increase, and teachers improve their teaching. The ideas you will fi nd a greater abundance of the bless- are based on sound teaching principles from ings of the Lord in your life. ◼

January 2010 31

Increase Faith 1and Personal Righteousness. The first-Sunday lesson gives us an opportunity to turn to the scriptures for the doctrines that will help us meet the challenges of the latter days.

By Julie B. Beck Relief Society General President

STUDYING THE WORK OF Relief Society hen our presidency was The First Sunday Is Different On the first W first called, we were given On the second, third, and fourth Sundays Sunday of the some resources about the of the month, we study Gospel Principles month, the history of the Relief Society, which had and teachings from general conference as a Relief Society been collected over the years. We stud- way to lead us to the blessings of eternal life. ied them prayerfully, wanting to know However, on the first Sunday of the month, presidency leads the purpose of Relief Society and what a member of the Relief Society presidency us in discus- the Lord would have us do during our instructs us and leads us in discussions as to sions on how we administration. how we can fulfill our sacred responsibilities can fulfill our As we studied that history carefully, as members of the Relief Society. sacred responsi- we learned that the purpose of Relief As Latter-day Saint women we have the Society as established by the Lord is to restored gospel of Jesus Christ and testi- bilities as Relief organize, teach, and inspire His daugh- monies of the plan of salvation. We are Society sisters. ters to prepare them for the blessings responsible for the female half of that plan. of eternal life. Relief Society applies It cannot be delegated to others. We are to all aspects of a Latter-day Saint wom- accountable before the Lord for the dis- an’s life. Sisters are taught and inspired charge of our duties. And the first Sunday through visiting teaching, service, and of the month is the Lord’s gift of time to Relief Society meetings. Each Sunday us as Relief Society sisters to learn how to our goal in Relief Society is to study fulfill our responsibilities. the doctrine and principles that will I hope that we will use that gift of help us achieve our purposes. As a time to fulfill our three lifelong responsi- result of our Sunday lessons, sisters bilities as members of the Relief Society: should be able to live the gospel with (1) increase faith and personal righteous-

LEFT: PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ROERT CASEY; PHOTOGRAPH OF SISTER BECK BY BUSATH PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPH OF SISTER BECK BY BUSATH CASEY; BY ROERT PHOTO ILLUSTRATION LEFT: greater conviction in their families ness, (2) strengthen families and homes, and homes. and (3) seek out and help those in need.

January 2010 33

Strengthen 2Families and Homes. On the first Sunday of the month, we can learn how to uphold, nourish, and protect families.

STEP UP AND BE STRONG “ ome women have said that it is frightening women to step up and be strong. We need Sto teach a class or speak in front of a group. women who declare the truth with strength, I can assure you I know from experience that it faith, and boldness. We need women to can be rather intimidating. Let’s remember what set an example of righteousness. We need Eliza R. Snow once said to her niece who was women to be ‘anxiously engaged in a good called upon to speak in front of a group. When cause’ (D&C 58:27). We need to live so her niece arose, she was unable to say anything that our lives bear witness that we love our because fear overcame her. She finally just sat Heavenly Father and the Savior Jesus Christ down. Eliza kindly and gently advised her, ‘Never and that we will do what They have asked mind, but when you are asked to speak again, us to do. We need to rescue ‘all that is finest try and have something to say.’ . . . down deep inside of [us]’ so that as daugh- “At a wonderful Relief Society meeting, ters of God we can do our part to build the Eliza R. Snow recorded in the minutes that kingdom of God. We will have help to do ‘nearly all present arose and spoke, and the this. As Joseph declared, ‘If you live up to your spirit of the Lord like a purifying stream, privileges, the angels cannot be restrained refreshed every heart.’ We hope our sisters from being your associates.’” today feel nourished, edified, and uplifted Barbara Thompson, second counselor in the Relief every time they attend a Sunday lesson. Society general presidency, “Now Let Us Rejoice,” “Sisters, now more than ever, we need Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2008, 115, 116. PHOTOGRAPHS OF SISTER THOMPSON AND SISTER ALLRED BY BUSATH PHOTOGRAPHY; PHOTO ILLUSTRATION OF FAMILY BY CHRISTINA SMITH OF FAMILY PHOTO ILLUSTRATION PHOTOGRAPHY; PHOTOGRAPHS OF SISTER THOMPSON AND ALLRED BY BUSATH

34 Ensign

I hope we will turn to the scriptures and must! That is why you are here!” Her teaching approved Church resources for the examples, inspired me to become more intentional about BLESSINGS OF principles, and doctrines that will help us my responsibilities and to approach life with THE TEMPLE accomplish these responsibilities and learn greater faith. It is possible to have that kind “ o whatever how to meet the challenges of the latter days. of direct and inspired teaching every week in Dmay be nec- Emma Hale Smith, our first Relief Society pres- Relief Society. essary to qualify to receive [the ident, was told to “expound scriptures, and Sisters frequently have questions about blessings of the to exhort the church, according as it shall be how to live through the experiences of this temple]. . . . given thee by my Spirit” (D&C 25:7). We can mortal life in a faith-filled way. The first “. . . Go to the follow her example. Sunday of the month gives us the opportu- temple to seal our If I were to do this in a first-Sunday Relief nity to bring together the combined faith that families eternally. Society meeting, I would begin by prayerfully exists in each Relief Society. The wisdom of Let us return to the deciding what we should be learning. I would all present can help answer real questions temple as often as our circumstances then search the scriptures to discover what they and provide inspired answers. will permit. Let us have to teach us on that topic. I would learn what Following are other examples of what we give our kindred prophets and Church leaders have taught. Then can study on the first Sunday to help us increase dead the oppor- I would pray for the Spirit’s guidance as I wrote our faith and personal righteousness: tunity to receive down some discussion questions we could use as the ordinances Н .BLJOHBOELFFQJOHDPWFOBOUT we study together in our first-Sunday meeting. I of exaltation. Н 2VBMJGZJOHGPSBUFNQMFSFDPNNFOEBOE Let us enjoy the would hope that sisters would go home stronger worshipping in temples. spiritual strength and use this same pattern to study in their homes Н 2VBMJGZJOHGPS SFDPHOJ[JOH BOEGPMMPXJOH and the revelation and teach their families. the influence of the Holy Ghost. we receive as we Н 5FBDIJOHBOEEFGFOEJOH+FTVT$ISJTUДTHPTQFM attend the temple regularly. Let us Increasing Faith and Personal Н 1BSUJDJQBUJOHJOTJODFSFQFSTPOBMBOEGBNJMZ Righteousness be faithful and prayer. My grandmother, Isabelle Bawden Bangerter, make and keep Н )BWJOHGBNJMZIPNFFWFOJOH temple covenants was known to be a woman of great faith. She Н *NQMFNFOUJOHQSJODJQMFTPGTFMGSFMJBODF to receive the full acquired her faith as a child and worked to and provident living. blessings of the increase it all her life. She taught Relief Society Atonement.” for many years, and among Relief Society sisters Silvia H. Allred, first coun- selor in the Relief Society she was known as a theologian, a woman who Strengthening Families and Homes general presidency, knew the gospel well and could teach it from When I was a young Relief Society sister, “Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants,” Liahona and the scriptures. She was still studying the scrip- we had a mother-education class once a Ensign, Nov. 2008, 114. tures when she died at the age of 97. Grandma month. Though I had a wonderful and skilled Bangerter was a woman who was confident in mother, I still learned from my teachers in her eternal roles and responsibilities. When I Relief Society how to be a better mother and was a young mother, I asked her if it was possi- how to improve my home. We learned home- ble to rear a righteous posterity in a world filled making principles and skills, we learned how with wickedness. She raised herself up, and to be better parents, and we learned how to pointing at me, she emphatically said, “Yes! You strengthen our marriages.

January 2010 35

Seek Out and Young mothers often ask me if we can righteous rising generation of Latter-day 3Help Those in ever have mother education again in Relief Saints. Need. We have the Society. My answer is yes. We can learn how Н,OPXJOH MJWJOH BOEEFGFOEJOHUIFEPDUSJOF responsibility to to uphold, nourish, and protect families on of the family. provide relief—relief the first Sunday of the month. Н4FBSDIJOHPVUEFDFBTFEGBNJMZNFNCFSTBOE of poverty, illness, Following are some examples of what performing temple ordinances for them. doubt, ignorance, we can study on the first Sunday to help us and all that hinders strengthen families and homes: Seeking Out and Helping Those in Need the joy and progress First-Sunday lessons are our opportunity to of women. Н6OEFSTUBOEJOHBOEEFGFOEJOHUIFEJWJOF strengthen one another and find answers to roles of women. MJGFДTEJGԣDVMUJFT"UBOZHJWFOUJNFNBOZPGUIF Н&NCSBDJOHUIFCMFTTJOHTPGUIFQSJFTUIPPE sisters in each Relief Society are experiencing Н'PSNJOHFUFSOBMGBNJMJFT USJBMTBOEEJTBQQPJOUNFOUT1SFTJEFOU#PZE, Н.BJOUBJOJOHTUSPOHNBSSJBHFT Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Н#FBSJOHBOESFBSJOHDIJMESFO "QPTUMFT IBTDBMMFEFBDIXBSE3FMJFG4PDJFUZB Н&YQSFTTJOHMPWFGPSGBNJMZNFNCFSTBOE “circle of sisters.” He said: nurturing them. З&BDITJTUFS OPNBUUFSXIFSFJOUIBUDJSDMFTIF Н"DDFQUJOHSFTQPOTJCJMJUZ stands, can look to either side and feel the spirit to prepare a PGJOTQJSBUJPODPNJOHCBDLBTTIFFYUFOETUIF LEFT: PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY NOEL MAGLAQUE PHOTO ILLUSTRATION LEFT:

36 Ensign

RESOURCES FOR FIRST-SUNDAY LESSONS

ê4DSJQUVSFT ê5FBDIJOHTPGMBUUFSEBZQSPQIFUT gentle hand of charity to those on either side. . . . ê5IF Ensign NBHB[JOF “. . . You will serve your organization, your êAll Is Safely Gathered In: Family cause—the Relief Society—this great circle of FinancesBOEFamily Home Storage sisters. Your every need shall be fulfi lled, now, QBNQIMFUT JUFNOPT  and in the eternities; every neglect will be &')!& êFor the Strength of Youth QBNQIMFU  %& !&  # *

"'$ '&"%!COVER STORY erased; every abuse will be corrected. All of JUFNOP &Creating# ( "%#  $!# %!' # Heavenly Homes Finding $%&'!) Comfort in King  "&)&!#Benjamins Counsel, p.25 Making the Most of this can come to you, and come quickly, when Our Single Years, p. 26 êFamily GuidebookBOEA Parent’s Guide 1 you devote yourself to Relief Society.” CPPLMFUT JUFNOPT  It has been my experience that each ward êMarriage and Family Relations Relief Society has the capacity to give to one 4VOEBZ4DIPPMNBOVBM JUFNOP another the support that is needed. If we seek êPreach My Gospel  NJTTJPOBSZHVJEF  and receive the help of the Holy Ghost, all JUFNOP  answers can be found in each circle of sisters. We have the responsibility to provide relief—relief of poverty, illness, doubt, igno- rance, and all that hinders the joy and prog- ress of woman. Relief Society has always been engaged in providing relief to others. On the fi rst Sunday, a member of the We know that because we are living in the Relief Society presidency can personalize latter days, we as individuals and families are the work of Relief Society. She can focus facing many diffi cult challenges. These chal- on charitable works as solutions to specifi c lenges include abuse, addictions, apathy, debt, ward or branch needs. She can train the sis- depression, disobedience, unemployment, fam- ters to be visiting teachers who address the ily disintegration, illness, persecution, poverty, needs of others as they fi nd them. And when and violence. This sounds very much like what appropriate, she can make assignments to the Apostle Paul prophesied in 2 Timothy 3:1–7, help specifi c people in need. 13 . However, we need not be afraid. We have the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul also Using the First Sunday gave us the solution: I believe that as Relief Society leaders seek “But continue thou in the things which the help of the Holy Ghost, they will be inspired thou hast learned and hast been assured of, as to what to study and teach during the fi rst- knowing of whom thou hast learned them; Sunday meeting of Relief Society. I know that “And that from a child thou hast known the the Lord’s work will continue to go forth across holy scriptures, which are able to make thee the earth and that it will prosper in large part wise unto salvation through faith which is in because the good women of the Church will Christ Jesus. do all they can to further that work in their own “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, homes and families fi rst and then in their other and is profi table for doctrine, for reproof, for circles of friendship and acquaintance. ◼ correction, for instruction in righteousness” NOTE 1. Boyd K. Packer, “The Circle of Sisters,” Ensign, Nov. (2 Timothy 3:14–16). 1980, 109, 110.

January 2010 37 SERVING IN THE CHURCH

WH O, M E? TEACH?

nd now we’ll turn the time over to [fi ll the minds of the people than . . . anything A in your name] for our lesson.” If you else” (Alma 31:5). were to hear these words in church 4 . Take comfort in the fact that you do next Sunday, would you feel fearful or not need to know everything about the confi dent? lesson to be an effective teacher. Plan some Sooner or later every member of the Church simple questions that will allow your class becomes a teacher. It might happen in Primary, members to share their experiences and IF I WERE GOING in Relief Society or a priesthood quorum, in insights. These can be the most moving and TO TEACH visiting or home teaching, or in family home memorable parts of your lesson. would read through and begin praying evening. For many people who are new in the 5 . As a teacher, you are called to learn as well. I about that lesson the Church, the role of teacher may not be familiar. Gospel teaching “calls for your diligent Sunday before. That Even those who have taught many times may efforts to increase your understanding and gives me a full week to wonder how they can be more confi dent and improve your skills, knowing that the Lord pray, to seek inspira- tion, to think, to read effective in touching lives for good. will magnify you as you teach in the way and watch for real-life 1 He has commanded.” applications that will Here are some simple ideas that can help For more teaching ideas, see Teaching, give vitality to my each of us fulfi ll our teaching assignments: No Greater Call. ◼ message. You won’t fi nalize the lesson that 1 . Prayer is an important teaching tool. Begin NOTE 1. Teaching, No Greater Call (1999), 4. early, but you will be each phase of your lesson preparation by surprised to fi nd how praying humbly for the guidance of the many things come to Spirit. Rely on the Lord’s promise to all LEADERSHIP IDEAS you during the week, how much God gives teachers: “The Spirit shall be given unto hen you are serving in a presidency, W be sure to attend when teachers and you—things that you you by the prayer of faith” (D&C 42:14). others called to serve in your organization will feel to use when 2 . Almost every lesson has more material in are set apart. Then set a time when you can you do fi nalize your the manual than you will be able to cover meet to: preparation.” 1. in class. Read the lesson, and prayerfully Explain the responsibilities of the new Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of calling. the Quorum of the Twelve choose one or two main principles that you 2. Apostles, “Teaching and Pass on lesson manuals or leadership Learning in the Church” feel are best for your class. materials. (worldwide leadership 3 . Prayerfully study the scriptures related 3. Offer support and further training. training meeting, Feb. 10, 4. 2007), Liahona, June 2007, to your lesson, and draw examples and Express your appreciation for and faith 58; Ensign, June 2007, 90. in the newly called member. principles from them. The word of God can have a “more powerful effect upon

38 Ensign

Right: Abraham, Father of the Faithful, by Ruth Dubrez

Far Right: The Lord Fulfi lleth all His Words, by Clark Kelley Price

Below: Rebekah at the Well, by Michael Deas Prophets of the Old Testament “Surely the experiences of the great prophets of the Old Testament have been recorded to help us

Above: Adam and Eve, understand the importance by Douglas M. Fryer of choosing the path of strict obedience.” President Howard W. Hunter, “Committed to God,” Ensign, Nov. 1982, 58.

January 2010 39 Below: The Prophet Isaiah Foretells Christ’s Birth, by Harry Anderson

Above: Daniel in the Lions’ Den, by Phyllis Luch

Below: Moses with Aaron and Hur, Above: Hannah Presenting Artist Unknown Samuel to Eli, by Clark Kelley Price

Above: Israel Blesses Ephraim with Birthright, by D. Keith Larson

40 Ensign

Above: An Angel of the Lord Came to Elijah, Above: David and Goliath, by Walter Rane by Steve Nethercott

“The Old Testament prophets from Adam to Malachi are testifying of the divinity of the Lord Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father. Jesus Christ was the God of the Old Testament, and it was He who conversed with Abraham and Moses.”

President Spencer W. Kimball, Ensign, May 1977, 76.

Above: Joseph Making Himself Known to His Brothers, by Ted Henninger

January 2010 41

By Elder Ronald A. Rasband Of the Presidency of the Seventy

“Moses , My Son” God knows us, loves us, and desires our salvation and exaltation. BY PAUL GUSTAVE DORÉ GUSTAVE BY PAUL

rom my earliest days in in which he was shown an extraordi- Primary, I have always nary experience that had been given loved the stories of the Old to Moses (see Moses 1–8). FTestament. Though these stories at This revelation serves as a further

times seemed supernatural to me with witness to what Moses taught in the OF THE LAW, MOSES BREAKING THE TABLETS their portrayals of divine intervention Old Testament. This was the same JOUIFBGGBJSTPG(PEДTDIJMESFO UIFZ man of whom it was said, “Now the are, first of all, accounts of the lives man Moses was very meek, above

of otherwise ordinary men and women. Noah, all the men which were upon the face of the LEFT: BY JOSEPH BRICKEY; 3VUI +FSFNJBI &TUIFS BOENBOZPUIFSTEFBMUXJUI earth” (Numbers 12:3). Here is a perfect exam- challenges that are the common lot of mankind: ple of an ordinary man having an extraordinary they married, had children, worked to survive, experience. confronted enemies, battled discouragement, and In this remarkable vision, Moses learned the MOSES SEEING JEHOVAH, JOUIFQSPDFTTIBEUIFJSMJWFTUPVDIFECZ(PEJO truth about: RIGHT: often spectacular ways. In reading about these Old Testament individ- Н8IP(PEJT uals, we discover that they were not so different Н8IPXFBSFJOSFMBUJPOUP)JN GSPNVT5IFGBDUUIBU(PEXBTNJOEGVMPGUIFN Н8IZ)FDBVTFEUIFFBSUIUPCFDSFBUFE and that they were of service to Him gives hope Н5IFSFBMJUZPG4BUBOBOEIPXXFDBOSFTJTUIJN that the same is possible for us. Н5IFSPMFUIF-PSE+FTVT$ISJTUQMBZFE 8IJMFXPSLJOHPOIJTUSBOTMBUJPOPGUIF#JCMFJO +VOF UIF1SPQIFU+PTFQI4NJUIIBEBWJTJPO -FUДTFYQMPSFTPNFPGUIFTFJOHSFBUFSEFUBJM

42 Ensign

“Consider the power of the idea taught in our beloved song ‘I Am a Child of God’ . . . Here is the answer to one of life’s great questions, ‘Who am I?’ I am a child of God with a spirit lineage to heavenly parents. That parentage defines our eternal potential. That powerful idea is a potent antidepressant. It can strengthen each of us to make righteous choices and to seek the best that is within us. Establish in the mind of a . . . person the powerful idea that he or she is a child of God and you have given self- respect and motivation to move against the prob- lems of life.” 1 After being shown In a revelation the creations of God and restored through witnessing the power the Prophet and glory of the Lord, Joseph Smith, God Moses was moved to repeatedly referred declare, “Now, for this cause I know that man to Moses as “my is nothing” (Moses 1:10). son” and taught Does this contradict him that he was A Son of God Elder Oaks’s statement? In this revelation God repeatedly refers to created in the Not at all. Moses had simply come to under- Moses as “my son” and teaches him that he similitude of the stand that by comparison, God is infinitely was created in the similitude of the Savior Savior. wiser and more powerful than mortal men (Moses 1:6). Commenting on the impor- and women. It is our faith that as sons and tance of this truth, Elder Dallin H. Oaks of daughters of God, we have the potential to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught: become like Him.

January 2010 43

Resisting Satan us the importance of prayer. Then Moses commanded After witnessing the power and glory of God, Moses Satan to depart from him, speaking “in the name of the was confronted by Satan, who “came tempting him, say- Only Begotten” and thus declaring his loyalty to Jesus ing: Moses, son of man, worship me” (Moses 1:12; empha- Christ and his dependence on the Savior’s Atonement sis added). Note that Satan attempted to persuade Moses (Moses 1:20–21). By displaying such determination, that he was not, as he had been assured, a son of God Moses was strengthened and succeeded in driving Satan from him.

God Reveals His Purposes After Satan had departed, Moses again beheld the glory Moses of God and was shown a mar- commanded velous vision. He was shown Satan to depart “the earth, yea, even all of it; from him, and there was not a particle of it speaking “in the which he did not behold, dis- name of the Only cerning it by the spirit of God. Begotten” and “And he beheld also the thus declaring inhabitants thereof, and there was not a soul which he beheld his loyalty to Jesus not; and he discerned them Christ. by the Spirit of God; and their numbers were great, even num- berless as the sand upon the sea shore” (Moses 1:27–28). BY JOSEPH BRICKEY Awed by the extent and grandeur of what he had beheld, Moses asked what we might have asked had we been in MOSES OVERCOMES SATAN, his place: “Tell me, I pray thee, but rather a “son of man”—that is, a mere mortal. It is why these things are so, and by what thou madest them” obvious why Satan wants us to doubt that we are spiritu- (Moses 1:30). ally begotten children of God. Dissuading us that we have The answer the Lord gave is perhaps the most succinct divine potential erodes the nobility to which we ought and revealing description found anywhere of the purposes to aspire and invites us to embrace the sins of this world. of God. He explained: In doing so we surrender to the adversary and forfeit our “This is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the rightful divine inheritance. immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39; empha- Moses provides us with a wonderful example of how sis added). to resist the blandishments of Satan. Moses said, “I will What a declaration! God’s works may be endless, but not cease to call upon God” (Moses 1:18), teaching He knows and loves each of us. His intent—His “work”

44 Ensign

You too can enhance your gospel study by using the study guide with your scriptures. The study guide includes the following helps for each Sunday School lesson: and His “glory”—is to bring salvation 1. Scripture-reading assignments. 2. Questions that encourage class and exaltation to us, His spiritually discussion. begotten children. 3. Questions that help us think about President James E. Faust (1920– modern-day application of Old 2007), Second Counselor in the First Testament scriptures. Presidency, provided this simple, yet The Old Testament consists of profound explanation of what prophecies and teachings from at this means: least 29 prophets and other inspired “There is a distinction between leaders. The study guide is written immortality, or eternal existence, and to help us focus on the chapters that highlight their prophecies and eternal life, which is to have a place teachings as well as the enlightening in the presence of God. Through USING THE OLD TESTAMENT events from their lives. STUDY GUIDE the grace of Jesus Christ, immortality As we study the Old Testament comes to all . . . , just or unjust, righ- “I use my study guide every and the books of Abraham and teous or wicked. However, eternal life week,” says Twyla Harris, whose Moses in the Pearl of Great Price, is ‘the greatest of all the gifts of God’ booklet is filled with notes. “I we can prayerfully and diligently read the listed scriptures, answer (D&C 14:7). We obtain this great gift, use the study guide as the tool it is the questions, and share what I meant to be. And as we study and according to the Lord, ‘if you keep my have learned with my children and read this ancient scripture, may we commandments and endure to the grandchildren.” remember the words of President end.’ If we so endure, the promise is, Sister Harris has discovered that Marion G. Romney (1897–1988), First ‘you shall have eternal life’ (D&C 14:7).” 2 the Old Testament Class Member Counselor in the First Presidency: As Latter-day Saints, we are grate- Study Guide is a valuable tool for “The message of the Old Testament learning the gospel. “I have a testi- ful for the wonderful gospel truths is the message of Christ and his mony that if we follow the teachings coming and his atonement” (“The provided by the Book of Moses. of the gospel, we will avoid many Message of the Old Testament,” A These additional insights strengthen problems, and our life will be filled Symposium on the Old Testament what we are taught by Moses in the with hope,” she says. [1979], 5). Old Testament. If these truths—our relationship to God, the reality of Satan, and the plan of salvation— were universally understood by the world, imagine what they would do to dispel fear, by God. He cares, He whispers, and He watches over us in doubt, hopelessness, and unrighteousness. Without an ways unique to each of our lives. understanding of these truths, mankind continues to Like Nephi of old, I can say: “I do not know the mean- “grope for the wall like the blind, . . . as if we had no ing of all things” (1 Nephi 11:17). Nevertheless, I do know eyes: we stumble at noonday as in the night; we are in and witness that God our Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, desolate places as dead men” (Isaiah 59:10). in their infinite greatness, know and love you and me per- Many times in my own life I have felt an assurance that sonally as expressed to Moses through revelation. ◼

God is interested in me—in my personal salvation. And as NOTES Moses knew, I know that I am one of Heavenly Father’s 1. Dallin H. Oaks, “Powerful Ideas,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 25. 2. James E. Faust, “The Supernal Gift of the Atonement,” Ensign, Nov. sons. I also know that each of us is precious to and loved 1988, 12.

January 2010 45

MAKING

MOUNTAINSThe Parables of the Mountain Guide and the Mountain

By Adam C. Olson Church Magazines PHOTOGRAPHS BY ADAM C. OLSON, EXCEPT AS NOTED; RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH OF JADE MOUNTAIN © FOTOSEARCH PHOTOGRAPH OF JADE MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHS BY ADAM C. OLSON, EXCEPT AS NOTED; RIGHT:

46 Ensign

s an interpretive tour guide in Yushan most just want to make it to the top— National Park in Taiwan, Chén Yù and they want the easiest way there. Taipei Chuàn (Richard) is often assigned Richard sees some spiritual symbolism Taiwan Yushan to A escort important visitors around the park. in their attitudes. As he describes it, the National Typically when he asks his guests what they peak of life’s experiences is to be able Park would like to see, they want to go to the top of to return to God’s presence (see Alma Yushan ( Jade Mountain), the highest peak in 12:24). Yet while many recognize the northeast Asia at 12,966 feet (3,952 m). value of that goal, some don’t realize that to To appreciate the Richard has a passion for nature and loves the be with Him, we must become like Him (see summit, one beauty and majesty of Yushan. But through expe- 1 John 3:2; 3 Nephi 27:27; Moroni 7:48). And must experience the valleys, says rience he has learned something important that there is no quick and easy path to that peak. Richard Chén he tries to share with his visitors: the spectacular (left, at Baiyang view from above gains its real value only after The True Guide Waterfall in Taroko one has experienced what’s below. Richard doesn’t want to take visitors for National Park). Visiting the peak, with its manmade trails and just a walk; he wants to give them an experi- Brother Chén is a wonderful view, is a great experience, but Richard ence. But he is limited in how much he can guide in Yushan tries to explain that there is much to learn and teach them by their level of desire. National Park, home to Jade much hidden beauty to fi nd in the more diffi cult- “I can take those who want to experience Mountain (above). to-access river gorges and canyons below. nature to places that others rarely see,” he “To appreciate the height, you must experi- says. “Their experience may be more diffi - ence the bottom,” he says. “You can’t appreciate cult, but it is much richer.” the end without understanding the process.” Richard feels that life is no different, Some of his visitors are persuaded; however, and his personal experiences refl ect this

January 2010 47

principle. While a university student, Richard began a and along with the change for good they saw in him, it search for real purpose in life. He visited a number of helped smooth ruffled feathers. It also strengthened his churches without finding what he was searching for—un- faith and taught him an important lesson. til he met the missionaries. “If we don’t follow Jesus Christ,” he says, “we will miss a His parents, however, strongly opposed his joining the lot of important experiences that we need.” These experi- Church. They worried about their only son leaving their ences may be more difficult, but they are necessary for our faith. They also worried about what would become of good (see 2 Nephi 2:2; D&C 122:7). them. Many in their culture believe that their standing in the afterlife depends heavily upon the veneration offered How Mountains Are Made them by their living descendants. Anyone who follows Richard through his beloved gorges Although he struggled with his parents’ opposition, and valleys will undoubtedly learn that the mountains of Richard had gained a testimony of the Savior and the need Taiwan and its precipitous east coast were created by the to follow Him. collision of two plates in the earth’s crust. The intense heat and pressure created by that powerful force turned layers of sediment first to limestone, then to the marble for which THE GROWTH REQUIRED the east coast is famous. That same unseen power shakes TO RETURN HOME and grinds and buckles the earth, eventually sending “ ne’s life . . . cannot be both mountain ranges soaring into the heavens. Ofaith-filled and stress-free. . . . Whether in Yushan or Taroko National Park, where he “Therefore, how can you and worked earlier, Richard loves to point out evidence of how I really expect to glide naively the forces of nature formed Taiwan from the bottom up. through life, as if to say, ‘Lord, give me experience, but not grief, not “There are ripple marks on the highest rock, and there sorrow, not pain, not opposition, are sea fossils and other evidence of what’s on top having not betrayal, and certainly not to be forsaken. Keep from once been at the bottom,” Richard says. “If you want to me, Lord, all those experiences which made Thee what understand the summit, you must understand the depths, Thou art! Then let me come and dwell with Thee and because that’s where the summit began.” fully share Thy joy!’ . . . Richard believes this is important because it parallels “Real faith . . . is required to endure this necessary but the purpose of life. In difficult times it can seem like we painful developmental process.” Elder Neal A. Maxwell (1926–2004) of the Quorum of the Twelve aren’t just visitors to the mountain but more like the moun- Apostles, “Lest Ye Be Wearied and Faint in Your Minds,” Ensign, May tain itself, buffeted by forces and stresses that shape us and 1991, 88, 90. push us toward heaven if we can bear them with patience and faith (see Mosiah 23:21–22; D&C 121:7–8).

“Jesus Christ is the way,” Richard says. “He is the True Making Mountains of Us Guide back to the Father” (see John 14:6). From his own experiences Richard has learned that we He chose to follow the Savior and be baptized, trusting cannot rise up out of the world to reach our highest poten- that the Lord would lead him down the right path even if tial without undergoing uncomfortable, sometimes painful, it looked harder. experiences. A week after his baptism, he was blessed with a good As a radio reporter Richard worked under consider- job as a radio news reporter for the largest broadcasting able pressure covering a wide variety of topics on short corporation in Taiwan. Getting the job pleased his parents, deadlines. He soon learned that social drinking was an

48 Ensign

important way many reporters obtained information. Work became increasingly diffi cult because he refused to partici- pate in the drinking. The thought of fi nding a new job eased his conscience but not his challenges. His radio job had helped pacify his parents after he joined the Church. So when he left the high- paying, prestigious, full-time job for part-time contract work as a guide, his parents were disappointed for a time. It was another diffi cult path to choose, but he doesn’t regret taking it because he knows that to be “exalted on high” (see D&C 121:7–8), we must fi rst experience the lows (see D&C 122:5–7). “We sometimes limit what God can make of us

Those who follow Brother Chén through the valleys, such as this one cre- ated by a tributary because we don’t want to experience the bad with the of the Liwu River good,” he says. (far left), learn Following the Lord led him to a job he enjoyed. It led about the intense him to serve a mission. It introduced him to his future wife, geological forces, such a waterfall with whom he now has four beautiful children. Despite (left) or the con- the trials, there has been no end to the blessings. torted marble wall When discipleship leads through “the path of the low of the Mysterious valley” (2 Nephi 4:32 ) and even “the valley of the shadow Valley (above). The of death” ( Psalm 23:4 ) on its way to “him who dwells on forces that make high” ( D&C 1:1 ), Richard takes comfort in the promise that mountains are par- allel to the refi ning “the words of Christ, if we follow their course, [shall] carry us process one must beyond this vale of sorrow into a far better land of promise” endure to return to ( Alma 37:45 )—further confi rmation to him that it is only after God’s presence. experiencing the challenges of life that we will be prepared to enjoy the summit. ◼

For more on this story, including a gallery of photos from Taroko National Park, visit ensign.lds.org.

January 2010 49 GOSPEL CLASSICS

By President Boyd K. Packer President of the Quorum of the EMOTIONAL SolvingTwelve Apostles PROBLEMS IN

ur bishops face increasing calls to counsel mem- THE LORD’S bers with problems that have more to do with emotional needs than with the need for food or clothing or shelter. OWN WAY O REIER BY MATT PHOTO ILLUSTRATION My message, therefore, is to the subject: solving emo- tional problems in the Lord’s own way. Fortunately, the principles of temporal welfare apply to emotional problems as well. . . . Saints that they should take care of their own material needs and then contribute to the welfare of those who Principles of Self-Reliance cannot provide for themselves. The welfare handbook instructs: “[We must] earnestly If a member is unable to sustain himself, then he is to teach and urge Church members to be self-sustaining to call upon his own family, and then upon the Church, in the full extent of their powers. No true Latter-day Saint will that order...... voluntarily shift from himself the burden of his own When people are able but unwilling to take care of support. So long as he can, under the inspiration of the themselves, we are responsible to employ the dictum of Almighty and with his own labors, he will supply himself the Lord that the idler shall not eat the bread of the laborer. with the necessities of life” ([1952], 2). . . . (See D&C 42:42.) We have succeeded fairly well in teaching Latter-day The simple rule has been to take care of one’s self. This

50 Ensign couplet of truth has been something of a model: “Eat it up, than any other disease. . . . wear it out, make it do, or do without.” Speaking fi guratively, many a bishop keeps on the corner When the Church welfare program was fi rst announced of his desk a large stack of order forms for emotional relief. in 1936, the First Presidency said: When someone comes with a problem, the bishop, “. . . The aim of the Church is to help people help unfortunately, without a question, passes them out, with- themselves ” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1936, 3; italics out stopping to think what he is doing to his people. . . . added). . . . It is a self-help system, not a quick handout system. Application to Families It requires a careful inventory of all personal and family . . . Fathers are responsible to preside over their families. resources, all of which must be committed before anything Sometimes, with all good intentions, we require so is added from the outside. much of both the children and the father that he is not It is not an unkind or an unfeeling bishop who requires able to do so. a member to work to the fullest extent he can for what he If my boy needs counseling, bishop, it should be my receives from Church welfare. responsibility fi rst, and yours second. There should not be the slightest embarrassment for If my boy needs recreation, bishop, I should provide it fi rst, and you second. If my boy needs correction, that Spiritual independence and self-reliance is a should be my responsibility fi rst, sustaining power in the Church. If we rob the and yours second. members of that, how can they get revelation If I am failing as a father, help me fi rst, and my children second. for themselves? How will they know there is Do not be too quick to take a prophet of God? How can they get answers over from me the job of raising my to prayers? How can they know for sure for children. President Boyd K. Packer Do not be too quick to counsel President of the Quorum themselves? . . . of the Twelve Apostles them and solve all of the problems. Get me involved. It is my ministry. We live in a day when the adver- any member to be assisted by the Church. Provided, that sary stresses on every hand the philosophy of instant grati- is, that he has contributed all that he can. . . . fi cation. We seem to demand instant everything, including The substance of what I want to say is this: The same instant solutions to our problems. . . . principle—self-reliance—has application to the spiritual It was meant to be that life would be a challenge. To and to the emotional. . . . suffer some anxiety, some depression, some disappoint- Unless we use care, we are on the verge of doing to our- ment, even some failure is normal. selves emotionally (and, therefore, spiritually) what we have Teach our members that if they have a good, miserable been working so hard for generations to avoid materially. day once in a while, or several in a row, to stand steady and face them. Things will straighten out. Counseling There is great purpose in our struggle in life. ◼ We seem to be developing an epidemic of “counselitis” This excerpt comes from a general conference address originally which drains spiritual strength from the Church much like given in April 1978. Punctuation standardized; subheads added. the common cold drains more strength out of humanity The full text can be found at ensign.lds.org .

January 2010 51

THE COURAGE TO COMFORT By Amy Weir Act Normal was 13 years old when my mother died One of the worst memories I have of the of breast cancer. The awkward beginning diffi cult time following my mother’s death is of of my teenage years, mixed with the reali- walking into junior high school the day after the Ities accompanying a great loss, made that time in funeral. An uncomfortable silence fell on the my life very stormy. Looking back, I realize that hallway, and everyone stared at me as I made there were some wonderful friends around me, my way to my locker. I am sure they just felt even though I felt so alone. They gave me the bad for me and didn’t know what to say, but I comfort and friendship I desperately needed, felt so exposed, as though I were on display. right when I needed it. Those fi rst few days back at school were Sometimes it can be hard to know what to When my mother rough, and I really appreciated my close friends do when a friend suffers a tragedy, even if the died, I needed who acted normal around me. As always, they event is not as severe as losing a loved one. comfort and joked around, talked about which boys they But with a little courage, you can do a lot of understanding. thought were cutest, and complained about good. Remember that everyone grieves dif- upcoming school assignments. After school we ferently. If you are unsure about how to help, Here are some went to the movies, took bike rides, or just hung pray for guidance and follow the Spirit. Here things that out. This “normal” time with them was a big relief

are some ideas that might help you. helped me. from the spotlight that seemed to follow me. BY DAN BURR ILLUSTRATIONS

52 Ensign

Make a Gesture Although I disliked awkward stares and too much atten- tion, I did appreciate knowing that people cared about me. I still have the sympathy card my best friend had the whole band class sign for me. I remember feeling so grateful to have some tangible support I could hold in my hands. The card gave me strength and made me feel less lonely. Even now, more than 20 years later, when I have troubles I get the card out and look over the old signatures, picture my classmates’ faces, and chuckle at how horrible our eighth-grade band sounded. The card reminds me that others cared about me even when I felt totally alone. Your gesture doesn’t have to be a card; it could be a short note, a small gift, or even just a listening ear. Don’t be afraid to do something kind; your friend needs all the kindness you can give.

Be Patient When my mother died I was so blinded by my own grief Be Sensitive that it took me a while to realize how much I needed and Avoid saying “Call me if you need anything” unless appreciated my friends’ efforts, so don’t get discouraged if you are a close friend. This may seem like odd advice, your friend doesn’t respond right away. The bigger the trag- but I remember how many people told me that. I know edy, the longer it may take to heal, and the longer it may be they meant well, but they were practically strangers. They before your friend is back to normal. had hardly ever spoken to me before, so why would I call them for sympathy or help? If you don’t know the Remember the Lord’s Promises person well, just say something like, “I’m really sorry Alma tells us that one of our baptismal covenants is to “bear about your loss,” or “I’m really sorry that happened to one another’s burdens, that they may be light,” and to “mourn you.” You don’t need to promise that you will be waiting with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in for a call for help. need of comfort” ( Mosiah 18:8–9 ). You may be nervous about If you are close, go ahead and tell your friend that you trying to comfort a friend, but remember that “the Lord giveth are available to talk or help, or take the initiative and call to no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall see how things are going. Just be sure to act cheerful prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing instead of complaining about your own troubles, which may which he commandeth them” ( 1 Nephi 3:7 ). Heavenly Father only add to your friend’s emotional burdens. Be of good will not only help you know what you can do for your friend, cheer (see D&C 78:18). It is one of the best gifts you can but He will also prepare a way for you to do it. He will give give to a friend in need. you the courage to comfort. ◼

January 2010 53

Widows

By Kersten and Widowers Campbell Moving Forward with Faith

any widows and widowers “I was facing some major financial wonder if they will ever feel difficulties,” she remembers. “It was a alive again after the death of very tight situation.” Mtheir beloved companions. But surviv- But Sister Thompson found that ing spouses from around the world bear the answer to her temporal problems witness that there is life after the death came from living gospel principles of a loved one and that a loving Father and relying on the Lord. in Heaven will help provide the way to One of the greatest blessings came move forward. from paying tithing. “I’ve always paid my tithing,” she says. “I felt I couldn’t Forward with Faith afford not to.” One difficulty widows and widowers Sister Thompson trusted in the MOTHER AND CHILD face after the death of a spouse is the principle of tithing, and the Lord RIGHT: challenge of moving on with their tem- showed her how to find the answers poral lives. Some find it hard to make she so desperately sought. “I was important decisions alone or to assume reading in the Book of Mormon,” she THE MARRIAGE responsibilities formerly shouldered he ride to the hospital recalls, “where the brother of Jared by a spouse. In addition, the financial T. . . seemed to take was asked to build some boats (see situation of a widow or widower may forever. As I walked in the Ether 2). As I was reading, I noticed be dire, especially if the spouse accrued doors, one of the emer- the steps the brother of Jared took

gency room attendants BY BRIAN KIRSHISNIK, LEFT: ART medical bills as the result of a long ill- when he was facing a serious prob- came to meet me, to tell ness, or if the widow or widower is left me what I already knew: lem. I thought since my problems with no means to support the family. my husband was dead. A were serious too, that I could follow Helen Thompson, a 64-year-old part of me died too, that his example.” widow from Australia, was facing misty November morning.” Sister Thompson did some many of these temporal challenges Sue Fullmer of Utah, from an essay research, gathered ideas, and pre- she wrote on becoming a widow. after her husband passed away. Three sented them to the Lord. She received of her seven children still lived at guidance as a result of her prayer. home, and to add to the complica- “I followed the same steps as the tions, one of Sister Thompson’s older brother of Jared,” she said. “The plan daughters had also become a widow allowed me to catch up on my house at the same time. payments and other obligations.”

54 Ensign

Help from family and friends, hope through service, and concerted efforts to feel happiness can fill widows and widowers with the faith needed to move forward.

Forward with Comfort She says, “When I pray for the Holy Ghost to be with Like Sister Thompson, others have found peace in me, I am more calm and controlled. I am able to think the principles of the gospel as they have pondered about the different path that my life is now to follow.” the Atonement and sought the companionship of the LaRae S. Blake of Texas, a mother of eight, also Holy Ghost in their daily lives. In England, 33-year-old relies upon the Holy Ghost. After she lost her husband Andrea Fahey’s husband died suddenly following sur- to cancer, she found peace in contemplating the bless- gery. Sister Fahey felt an overwhelming sadness and ings of the Atonement. wondered how she could raise her three young children “I had such an increased appreciation of the Atonement alone. She found that daily prayer and scripture study of the Savior,” she says, “My faith in His love for me and brought the Holy Ghost, which gave her comfort and my family, and my knowledge that He understands the the strength to move forward. heartache I was going through, helped me to see things

January 2010 55 Pondering the Atonement of Jesus Christ and seeking the companionship of the Holy Ghost have contemplated. People helped many widows have cooked and and widowers man- cleaned. A family in SUZANNE READING age their grief. my student ward asked their family to give them money instead of presents for Christmas and

then gave the money to us. This same family watched my BY BRIAN KIRSHISNIK, LEFT: ART with an eternal perspective. I knew my Heavenly Father daughter for free while I completed my last year of law had given me the gift of the Holy Ghost, who has the role, school. They even threw a surprise birthday party for me among others, of a comforter.” and have included us in many activities.” Widows and widowers say inclusion in family activities Forward with Help is important. Many face crushing loneliness they fi nd hard Sister Blake also attests that the service she received to bear, and some feel ostracized when old friends who from people who desired to reach out was instrumental in are couples no longer feel comfortable associating with helping her move forward. them. Much appreciated are the families who reach out She remembers, “I had so many people reach out to and continually invite them places and include them in me in love and kindness. The Relief Society and Young their family gatherings, even long after the painful loss. Women came and cleaned my house. A friend helped me Also pressing is the need to talk about what happened, fi gure out the medical bills, the insurance, and the paper- even if it results in tears. After a three-year battle with work that had to be done to change the accounts over cancer took her husband, Diana Redfern of England was to my name. People brought over food and paper goods devastated and frightened at the prospect of being alone. and called me on special occasions that were hard to get She relates how people in her ward helped her adjust to through, such as the fi rst Christmas after his death.” her new situation. Sister Blake says she especially appreciated her home “At the time of Bob’s death, people were very kind to and visiting teachers. “I had an excellent home teacher me. They reached out. I was listened to, and that is what I who helped me learn how to care for the house. He needed. What was not helpful was when people avoided taught me how to light a water heater and fi x an old door. talking about my husband because they thought it would He also gave my children blessings at the beginning of the upset me. I wanted to talk about him. It helped ease the school year. loss over time.” “My visiting teacher helped me to learn to use the com- puter, which had always been my husband’s job.” Forward with Hope Jason Morris, a 29-year-old widower from Nevada, says Another thing that helps, says Debbie Ryals, a 55-year- he appreciated those who simply came over and served old widow from South Carolina, is the strength and peace without asking permission. When his wife, who suffered that come from serving in the house of the Lord. She fi nds from leukemia, passed away just fi ve months after giving comfort in the doctrine of eternal families made possible birth to their daughter, Brother Morris felt like he was in a through the ordinances of the temple. She lost her hus- fog for weeks. He says people who offered specifi c acts of band suddenly and unexpectedly when he was taken by service were the most helpful. a rare blood disorder. At the time, she was not a member “I have been served in ways I would never have of the Church, but she says that in spite of being taught

56 Ensign

otherwise, she always knew that families were eternal. He recalls, “The Lord put many in my path to serve, That is why when the missionaries knocked on her door touch, and care for. It healed me, and at the same time it soon after her husband’s death and taught her about eter- gave me much strength. I reached out to many in my local nal families, she believed them. She was baptized within singles ward and made my house a meeting place where six months. Since then, the doctrine of eternal marriage all were welcome. I learned that so many single members has given her hope and helped her to get through the are hurting in so many ways, and all it takes is for some- lonely days and nights when she misses her beloved one to care, reach out, and serve.” companion. “I love the temple,” she says, “I fi nd it very peaceful, and Forward with the Love of God I come away with a sense of renewal. It’s like I’ve been Whether it be through service, personal revelation, the rededicated, and I can face the world once more.” comfort of the Holy Ghost, or earthly angels sent to ease Sue Fullmer agrees. Sister Fullmer, of Utah, lost her their burdens, these widows and widowers bear testi- husband to a sudden, unexplained illness. She says, mony that the blessings and miracles in their time of grief “When you are a single parent, you have that burden to have been rich and abundant. Through their struggle and shoulder all alone, day and night. But all that weight is example of enduring to the end, they bear strong witness lifted away from you when you walk through the doors that no matter how great the loss or how deep the sorrow, of the temple. The temple is a place where I can feel my there can be happiness and healing through the gospel of husband near to me. It is another witness that this life is Jesus Christ. ◼ part of eternity.”

Forward with Joy PURE RELIGION Most widows and widowers say that despite feelings express my sincere appreciation to of despair and loneliness, it is possible to have joy again. Ione and all who are mindful of the Trisha Grant-Call, a 38-year-old widow from Utah, says wid- widow [and widower]. To the thought- ows and widowers need to allow themselves to have joy. ful neighbors who invite a widow to “It takes awhile to fi nd happiness after a loss,” she dinner and to . . . the visiting teachers of the Relief Society, I add, may God says, “but I like to try to realize what I do have. I still fi nd bless you for your kindness and your love unfeigned joy through my children. I still have an amazing part of toward her who reaches out and touches vanished my husband in my girls and me. I still fi nd joy in being hands and listens to voices forever stilled. . . . around my horses and animals. Striving to live the life that “Thank you to thoughtful and caring bishops who Heavenly Father wants for me gives me happiness.” ensure that no widow’s cupboard is empty, no house Many widows and widowers say that they fi nd happiness unwarmed, no life unblessed. I admire the ward leaders who invite the widows to all social activities, in keeping busy, focusing on family, improving themselves, often providing a young Aaronic Priesthood lad to magnifying callings, and becoming involved in things they be a special escort for the occasion. . . . care about. But all of them testify that much of their happi- “ ‘Pure religion and undefi led before God and the ness comes from serving others. Kevin Campbell, a 50-year- Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in old widower from Washington, lost his wife after her their affl iction, and to keep himself unspotted from three-year battle with cancer. He says he found healing as the world’ ( James 1:27).” President Thomas S. Monson, “The Fatherless and the Widows: he attended the single-adult ward and reached out to those Beloved of God,” Ensign , Aug. 2003, 6–7. who were in as much need of comfort as he was.

January 2010 57 THEY SPOKE TO US

By Elder Stanley G. Ellis Of the Seventy

affl ictions” but to fi nish the ministry he WHAT SHOULD had “received of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 20:23–24). Joseph Smith pondered the WE DO WHEN WE scriptures and determined to follow the invitation to “ask of God” (Joseph DON’T KNOW Smith—History 1:13).

WHAT TO DO? Our Responsibility to Act The scriptures warn us that not The Lord expects us to inquire, study, and act knowing is not an excuse for not even when we lack perfect knowledge. doing. Nephi “desired to know the things that [his] father had seen,” pondered them in his heart, and “was caught away in the Spirit of the Lord” fter Nephi and his brothers We also may fi nd ourselves in (1 Nephi 11:1). Laman and Lemuel, A had repeatedly failed to situations that require us to take meanwhile, spent their time “disput- get the brass plates from action without knowing what to do. ing one with another concerning the Laban, Nephi set out to make a fi nal Thankfully, the experiences above things which [Lehi] had spoken unto attempt, “not knowing beforehand teach us ways to move forward them” (1 Nephi 15:2). the things which [he] should do” despite uncertainty. The Lord expects us to inquire, (1 Nephi 4:6). Nephi encouraged his brethren to study, and act—even though there Many prophets throughout the be faithful in keeping the command- are some things we may never know ages have faced a similar challenge ments of the Lord (see 1 Nephi 4:1). in this life. One of those things is of having to act in faith. Adam was Then he acted on that faith. He “crept the hour of His Second Coming. commanded to offer sacrifi ces with- into the city and went forth towards He said, “Watch therefore: for ye out knowing why (see Moses 5:5–6). the house of Laban,” being “led by know not what hour your Lord doth Abraham left his homeland to travel the Spirit” (1 Nephi 4:5–17). The Spirit come” (Matthew 24:42). Because of to a new land of inheritance without told him not only what to do but also this uncertainty, President Wilford knowing where it was (see Hebrews why it was so important that he do it Woodruff (1807–98) counseled mem- 11:8; Abraham 2:3, 6). Paul journeyed (see 1 Nephi 4:12–14). bers of the Church to prepare, but he to Jerusalem without knowing what Adam responded by being “obe- affi rmed that he would continue to would happen to him once he arrived dient unto the commandments of the plant cherry trees. 1 (see Acts 20:22). Joseph Smith knelt Lord” (Moses 5:5). Abraham acted in “When you are living worthily and in a grove of trees without knowing faith and, as a result, “sojourned in your choice is consistent with the which church he should join (see the land of promise” (Hebrews 11:9). Savior’s teachings and you need to Joseph Smith—History 1:19). Paul chose not to fear “bonds and act, proceed with trust,” said Elder

58 Ensign THEY SPOKE TO US

Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. If we are sensitive to the promptings of the Spirit, Elder Scott added, “either the stupor of thought will come, indicating an improper choice, or the peace or the burning in the bosom will be felt, confi rming that your choice was cor- rect [see D&C 9:8–9 ]. When you are living righteously and are acting with trust, God will not let you proceed too far without a warning impression if you have made the wrong decision.” 2

Prove the Lord Two experiences from my life—when I wasn’t sure what to do—illustrate the importance of obeying the commandments and following the living prophets. In college I ran out of money, so I found a part-time job. When I received my fi rst check, I did not know whether it would be enough to We need look no we remembered a talk by President N. Eldon get me through to the next paycheck. But I further than the Tanner (1898–1982) in which he counseled remembered the Lord’s promise regarding prophets, the Church members to always have health tithing: “Prove me now herewith . . . if I will scriptures, and insurance. 3 not open you the windows of heaven, and the Savior for an I talked with the company, and we nego- pour you out a blessing” (Malachi 3:10). answer. tiated a contract to ensure continuous insur- I decided to prove the Lord. I paid my tith- ance coverage throughout June. On June 28 ing fi rst, and He blessed me to survive. In the our oldest son, Matt, fell off the high diving process I learned to trust in His promises. board at the neighborhood pool and hit the Years later, when Sister Ellis and I had concrete deck. He suffered a fractured skull young children and I was starting a new and a brain concussion. He was rushed by career, my employer changed medical insur- helicopter to the hospital, where he was ance plans. The old plan would end on June treated by specialists. The costs were astro- 1 and the new one would start on July 1, nomical and would have ruined us fi nancially. leaving us without insurance for one month. Fortunately, health insurance paid for most of

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY MATTHEW REIER BY MATTHEW PHOTO ILLUSTRATION We did not know what to do, but at that point his treatment.

January 2010 59 GOSPEL IN MY LIFE

WITH A LIFE HANGING IN THE BALANCE By Samantha M. Wills

he construction worker lay where he T had fallen, precariously balanced on a plank nine inches (23 cm) wide and 100 feet (30 m) in the air. He had been struck by a falling steel beam that had partially severed his left arm and leg. What Should We Do? Abraham left As a paramedic attached to the Yorkshire So what should we do when we don’t his homeland to Air Ambulance, covering most of the north of know what to do? We need look no fur- travel to a new England, I never know what the next emer- ther than the prophets, the scriptures, and land of inheri- gency call will bring or what kind of situation the Savior for an answer. These valuable tance without we will face when we get to the scene. sources teach us to: knowing where In this case, the victim could not be it was. He acted moved safely until his injuries were assessed. 1. Seek answers through study and prayer. in faith and, as a I was hoisted up by crane on a metal cargo 2. Obey the commandments. result, “sojourned platform. Once I reached the victim, a con- 3. Trust in the Lord and in His promises. in the land of struction worker held onto the back of my 4. Follow the prophet. promise.” refl ective jacket, serving as a human “crane” to 5. Go forward in faith, not fear. allow me freedom of movement to examine 6. Complete our mission. the victim. And in each of these steps, may we In situations like this, years of training take follow the counsel of President Boyd K. over, so I began to assess the man’s injuries. Packer, President of the Quorum of the On his knee was an emergency fi eld dressing Twelve Apostles: “Always, always follow placed there by the construction crew’s own the promptings fi rst aid responder. Normally I would examine of the Spirit.” 4 ◼ the injury to assess the damage since that is

NOTES the protocol we are trained to follow. 1. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Wil- But as I reached out, the Spirit prompted ford Woodruff (2004), 250. 2. Richard G. Scott, “Using the Supernal Gift of me: “Do not move the dressing.” So I did not Prayer,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2007, 10. 3. See N. Eldon Tanner, “Constancy amid Change,” touch it. Three more times during the incident, Liahona, Feb. 1982, 46; Ensign, Nov. 1979, 82. I was encouraged by others involved—the fi rst 4. Boyd K. Packer, “Restoration,” Worldwide Leader- ship Training Meeting , Jan. 11, 2003, 2. responder, my colleague on the ground, and a doctor—to examine the knee wound, and

60 LiahonaEnsign three more times, the Spirit prompted me not by my knees. As I did so, my point of view to touch the dressing. Once we had stabilized altered, and I saw the power cable right the patient, we lifted the man onto the cargo below us. “Wires! Wires! Wires below!” was platform, we were both lowered to the ground, all I could say. And even though we actually and we transported him to the hospital. touched the cable and caused it to bow, In the emergency resuscitation area, the the pilot responded instantly, and we lifted Without the trauma team waited for us. One doctor quickly away and were saved. That was the closest Spirit’s prompting, removed the fi eld dressing from the knee. to disaster I have come. Without the Spirit’s that emergency call Immediately an artery ruptured, and the prompting, that emergency call would have would have had a patient began bleeding profusely. In the con- had a very different ending. very different trolled environment of the hospital, this life- I am so grateful for the loving way ending. threatening situation was quickly resolved. If Heavenly Father is aware of all our needs. it had happened on the plank 100 feet up, the The Lord is always watching over us. He victim may well not have survived. wants us all to remain spiritually safe and to Every morning I pray and ask Heavenly return home to Him, so He often speaks to Father to help me, to bless me with the inspi- us by the still, small voice of the Spirit. All we ration to know how to best help my brothers have to do is listen and obey. ◼ and sisters who will be in need today. Over the years, experience has taught me that whatever the Spirit prompts me to do, be obedient. That obedience has protected me as well. For example, one of my responsibilities is to act as navigator, guiding the helicopter pilot to

the incident scene. Emergency helicopters can and do fl y most anywhere, which makes them invaluable for reaching accident scenes quickly but it also makes them vulnerable. When we are fl ying at more than 140 miles (225 km) per hour, power cables and telephone wires can be practically invisible. And they can slice through a helicopter in an instant. On one trip we were coming in to land in a most awkward place. BY G. BERNARD BENTON; RIGHT: ILLUSTRATION BY GREGG THORKELSON ILLUSTRATION BY G. BERNARD BENTON; RIGHT: Suddenly the Spirit told me, “Put the clipboard down!” Again almost immediately, I felt, “Put it down!” So I leaned forward to place ABRAHAM LEAVING HARAN, ABRAHAM LEAVING

LEFT: LEFT: my clipboard on the case

JanuaryJanuary 20102010 6161

BEING IndependentBEING ,

By Lisa Barton MARCIA Prepared fi nds great comfort in following the Prophet’s counsel.

JOCELYN was able to help others during a crisis.

62 Ensign

EMILY How some young adults are applying to the shifting demands of young-adult life. Not includes foods principles of preparedness to their only do they feel better prepared for new stages that store well of life, including marriage or career changes, they when she shops. busy, mobile lives. also feel more secure about the future, no matter ocelyn is from Texas, Abby from Idaho, what it brings. As the Lord said: “If ye are pre- Marcia from Virginia, and Emily from Utah. pared, ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30 ). They come from different backgrounds Furthermore, as these women apply the prin- Jand have different career plans. But what they ciples of provident living to meet their current share, in addition to a home in northern Virginia, needs, they fi nd greater peace and have more is the need to apply principles of provident faith as they seek emotional, spiritual, and tem- living to their busy young-adult lives. poral blessings. Jocelyn Winter attends medical school. Much of her time and energy go into balancing school- Keeping It Simple work with meeting fi nancial obligations. Marcia With school, family, employment, Church, Brisson is fi nished with school for now and social commitments, Emily needs to simplify and is working full-time. wherever possible, and that includes her home Abby Croshaw is also storage program. She was surprised to fi nd that working full-time but working to obtain personal home storage items is considering a did not require extensive efforts. “I don’t have career change. a lot of time to spend at a Church cannery or And Emily anything like that, but I can buy an extra can Hardman is of pasta or something when I shop,” she says. planning to Emily selects items that store well and that she move across would normally eat. This avoids potential waste the country and helps her avoid going over her budget. to go to law Provident living is more than food storage. It school. All also includes avoiding extravagance and unnec- are fi nding that essary expenses. Marcia works in a metropolitan by applying the area where eating at nearby restaurants is a popu- principles found in lar but costly convenience. “I try to make an effort All Is Safely Gathered In: to bring my lunch. Eating out is expensive, and Family Home Storage you lose a lot of money by doing it,” she says. (Item# 04008000) and Keeping track of where her money goes helps Family Finances (Item# Marcia set money aside not only for general 04007000) they are savings but also for potential future expenses, better able to adjust including unplanned ones such as car repairs.

ABBY was grateful for her storage when severe storms struck. ILLUSTRATED BY ROGER MOTZKUS ILLUSTRATED January 2010 63

While neighbors and other people in her community were emptying store shelves of emergency supplies during the initial stages of a violent storm, Abby was safe in her home knowing she was prepared for the worst and able to help others.

The Blessings of Obedience to say nothing of the unanticipated bumps. . . . For Marcia, obedience to prophetic counsel on personal “Prepare for the future.” 2 preparedness is important, even though it would be easier Jocelyn says, “It really gives me a sense of security to know to rely on nearby family. “I obey just because we’re asked that the teachings in the Church focus on things to help us to, and it’s not really more complicated than that,” she says. succeed, especially in times of trial.” Years ago, Jocelyn’s stake Doing so has helped Marcia become independent. in Texas temporarily housed members displaced by a hurri- “It’s not just about buying extra food,” adds Emily. “Being cane. Her personal resources proved valuable. Even though prepared and self-suffi cient teaches you that it’s your own she didn’t use them for herself, someone else needed them. responsibility to provide while establishing yourself.” Emily “I gave away what I had to others. Just helping one person says Elder Quentin L. Cook’s counsel to live in faith instead can make a difference if everyone pitches in,” she says. of fear 1 has inspired her to move forward with her goal to The All Is Safely Gathered In pamphlet points out that remain self-reliant while she attends law school. Emily knows not everyone will have fi nancial resources or space for that if she follows the commandments, the Lord will help her. storage in a traditional sense, and some are prohibited by Abby, too, knows the blessings that come from obedience. law from storing large amounts of food. In these circum- She recalls that when a series of bad rainstorms hit her city, stances, the First Presidency encourages members to store she was grateful she had followed the counsel of the proph- as much as their circumstances allow. ets to build up a short-term home storage supply. During the Emily has found that doing as much as her circum- inclement weather, she was safe in her home while others in stances allow has reduced stress and increased confi - the community were rushing on crowded roads to the gro- dence. Even though she feels fi nancial pressure when she cery store for supplies. “Even if you made it to the store, the thinks about moving across the United States to attend shelves were completely empty,” she says. “My roommates law school (fi rst-year law students are not allowed to have and I didn’t even feel the stress because we had food stored jobs), she feels at peace. “I know I can pray and ask in at our house. I was grateful we had listened.” confi dence for God’s help because I’ve done what I was asked to do,” she says. Perhaps that reserve—the security Obtaining the Blessings that comes from obedience—is the best kind of all. ◼

President Thomas S. Monson has taught, “Our journey into NOTES the future will not be a smooth highway stretching from here 1. Quentin L. Cook, “Live by Faith and Not by Fear,” Ensign , Nov. 2007, 70. to eternity. Rather, there will be forks and turnings in the road, 2. Thomas S. Monson, “Treasure of Eternal Value,” Ensign , Apr. 2008, 7.

64 Ensign

WHY PROVIDENT LIVING WORKS FOR ME

took a job in a new city grew up in a home I and began to build a small I where we used food reserve of food and household storage on a regular necessities, as well as a savings basis. Living out of account. Later, I broke my foot home, I never felt entirely and became helpless for nearly two comfortable or secure until months. Help from good friends and having I had some kind of food storage of that small reserve in place allowed for far my own. It had meager beginnings; whenever fewer trips to the grocery store. Although this packets of pasta came on special, I purchased was not the type of disaster I was anticipating, a few extra ones. Now I store entire boxes of I was grateful for the counsel to be prepared.” food. I keep them in my closet, where they Shannon Wilson, Texas, USA are protected from heat or weather elements,

but they are still easily accessible so that I can ight now I don’t need rotate the stock regularly. R a lot to live on, but I do “Thankfully, there hasn’t been any major keep enough savings to help disaster or need for me to rely solely upon my me in an emergency. For me, food storage or other supplies, but I consider it’s about having faith. I know it a blessing to have the security of knowing I that I lived my life in a way that could live on my storage if needed. It is also a prepared me to deal with the challenges of blessing to be able to partially rely on it when serving a mission. Now, I feel the way that I am I don’t have as much income at a particular living is a refl ection of the foundation I built time due to extra expenses or fewer hours at as a missionary. I learned then and know now work. I know that implementing provident that as long as I am preparing myself by devel- living principles in our lives is a commandment oping a relationship with Heavenly Father and from the Lord that helps us be more fruitful Jesus Christ, I will be ready for the future.” and independent.” Jaron Malyon, Washington, USA Jaci Smibert, Australia

y parents encouraged me to work for extra money by mowing lawns and M babysitting, and they helped prepare me to be wise with money and live providently. A blessing I’ve received from these experiences is that I am resource- ful and I don’t stress over the future. As an adult, I am better able to decide between what I want and what I need, which has helped me to be practical in other areas, like home storage.” Joshua Keene, Virginia, USA

January 2010 65 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

t that A moment I knew what I HEALING MY needed to do. The Lord had HOMESICKNESS answered my began college at age 18. After a prayers in such I short time, however, I transferred a simple way, to another university and but I could not changed my major. My new deny that it was university was only a couple an answer just of hours from my home, the same. but I found myself terribly homesick and discouraged, wanting to give up and return to my family. Yet I knew if I did, I would be abandoning my chance to earn a degree. One weekend not long after the school year began, all of my roommates went home for a visit. I knew that if I went home too, I would I entered, hoping for a moment to remaining years in school. I gained not return. I couldn’t even call and pray for direction. As I found a place a degree, lifelong friends, and a speak to my family for fear I would to sit and slowly moved onto the stronger testimony by following the break down and not be able to wooden pew, I noticed a printed promptings of the Spirit. focus on my studies. I had been program from the previous sacra- Now, more than 25 years later, I praying for the strength to over- ment meeting. There on the front of still recall that answer to my prayer, come my homesickness, but now the folded paper were the following and I use those same words from that I was praying to know whether I words: “Perhaps the most valuable sacrament meeting program to com- should even remain at school and result of all education is the ability to mit myself to diffi cult tasks. I have complete a degree. make yourself do the thing you have shared my experience with close Early that Sunday morning as I to do, when it ought to be done, friends and family in hopes that they walked slowly across the quiet cam- whether you like it or not.” 1 too might gain strength in diffi cult pus on my way to church, I won- At that moment I knew what I times. dered how I could stay at school needed to do. The Lord had answered I know the Lord cares about our when I missed my home and family my prayers in such a simple way, but feelings and everyday choices, and so deeply and couldn’t overcome my I could not deny that it was an answer I know He answers our sincere loneliness. But what would I do if I just the same. prayers. ◼ left school? It wasn’t long after that Sunday Sue Hirase, Utah, USA When I arrived at church, the pre- that my loneliness and discourage- NOTE 1. Thomas Henry Huxley, in John Bartlett,

vious ward had just left the chapel. ment left. As a result, I enjoyed my comp., Familiar Quotations (1968), 725. BY KRISTIN YEE ILLUSTRATIONS

66 Ensign receive your Father in Heaven, which COULD I CLOSE MY BUSINESS would you choose?” ON SUNDAY? Her question helped me realize the importance of receiving the Lord hree weeks after I opened my games, and children receive candy. every Sunday, and I knew I had to T heart, received the gospel, and “Tomorrow, on Saturday, I’ll let you stand by my decision. Honoring the made the important decision to be know,” I told my managers. Lord is the most important thing we baptized in 2001, I attended a Sunday When I got home, I told my wife can do on Sunday, and since then I School class in which we discussed what had happened. I expected her have not missed an opportunity to the importance of observing the to say, “Stay open. After all, it’s just do so. Sabbath day. one Sunday.” But that was not her If we put the things of the Lord As a successful business owner answer. before the things of man, we will be with a large number of employees, With a fi rm voice, she told me that given a testimony of the Sabbath day. I had been working on Sundays for I was the head of the family and that For our observance of the Sabbath more than 20 years. But it was my decision. But day, my family and I have been as the importance of this then she asked me, “If greatly blessed, as has my business. day became clear to me, told my wife someone told you that May we all receive the blessings of I decided to tell my three I that several this Sunday you could honoring the Lord’s day. ◼ store managers that we insistent cus- receive either a huge Gerardo Adrián García Romero, were not going to open tomers asked fortune or you could Veracruz, Mexico anymore on Sunday. whether we A few weeks after I might open announced my decision, our stores my three managers told the follow- me that several insistent ing Sunday. customers, mainly school- teachers, asked whether we might open our stores the following Sunday. I work in the candy business in Papantla, and people needed to buy candy and piñatas to prepare for El Día del Niño (Children’s Day), which would be observed the following Monday. On Children’s Day, held on April 30 in Mexico, schools have parties and

January 2010 67 company, I have a fl exible schedule. I have been home for important events in my family’s life, such as when my children were born and started walk- ing and talking. In addition, my wife and I have been able to serve in the San José Costa Rica Temple. These opportunities, which came because we had responded to promptings and sought direction in prayer, have tied us together. I recently resumed my university studies. When the impres- e didn’t sion came to return to Whave a school, I worried about penny. So one how I could provide for morning we my family. Two days a prayed that we week I would be in the HOW COULD WE PAY might some- classroom, not at work. OUR RENT? how obtain How was my family the money we going to make it? year and a half after my wife, of one month, Rebeca and needed. Again, my wife and ARebeca, and I married, the com- I needed to pay rent for I made this challenge a pany I worked for closed. Suddenly I our home. We didn’t have matter of prayer, and the found myself unemployed. a penny. So one morning Lord responded. I began Rather than look to be hired by we prayed that we might receiving permanent con- someone else, I felt prompted to somehow obtain the tracts, which have made start my own company. I knew that money we needed. Later that day I it easier for me to make up workdays this challenge could be a compli- was hired for a job that paid enough I miss while at school. cated one, so I turned to Heavenly to cover our rent. In all of these experiences, we Father to confi rm what I had felt. A month after I started my com- have seen the Lord keep His promise: Prayer played a vital role in that ini- pany, the stake president asked me to “Ask, and ye shall receive” (3 Nephi tial decision and has continued to be meet with him. Soon I was called to 27:29). Prayer has been important crucial since. be the bishop of our ward. I realized to our family’s development and In August 2003 I started my own that Heavenly Father had opened a improvement. We have seen and felt company doing painting, gardening, way for me to accept and fulfi ll this that when we turn to the Lord, He landscaping, and maintenance work. calling. With my other job, I would blesses us. We know that He knows Things aren’t always easy when you not have had the necessary time for us by name, and we can ask Him for have your own company, especially members of the ward and for my own whatever we need. ◼ when starting out. At the beginning family. But because I have my own Douglas Arévalo, Costa Rica

68 Ensign LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

I DIDN’T HAVE A TEMPLE I happened to have with me. I was surprised to hear my bishop’s son RECOMMEND answer the phone. He told me he had just returned from his mission to hen I was 17 years old, I had a congregation how blessed they were England. When I told the American Wstrong desire to see a Latter- to live so close to a temple. I also bishop, he said, “Perfect. He can day Saint temple. I lived in Denmark said I would have loved to have gone translate for us.” with my family, where at that time inside but couldn’t because I didn’t Soon all four of us were on the there was no temple. For Saints living have a recommend, though I had phone—my bishop giving me a rec- in Denmark, the closest temples were always been taught to live worthily. I ommend interview, his son translating in Switzerland and England. I didn’t closed my testimony by encouraging for the American bishop. Before long know anyone in those nations, so the members to attend the temple as I had my recommend and was fi nally traveling to either country by myself often as they could. able to enter the temple! I cannot put was out of the question. After church, my relatives’ bishop into words the joy I felt knowing that But because I had family in Utah, approached me and said he would try the Lord had opened the way for me. I decided to save money so I could to help me get a temple recommend, I was later married in the temple visit and do baptisms for the dead in and we set up an interview. During and have been blessed with four the Salt Lake Temple. I wrote my aunt the interview, he asked me if my beautiful children. I am so thank- and cousins in Utah to see if it was all bishop spoke English. I said no. He ful Heavenly Father has given us right if I came for a visit. They were replied, “And I don’t speak Danish.” temples, and I’m grateful to know excited to hear of my plans. My heart sank again. that I am sealed to A year later I had fi nally saved But the bishop said, “You have my family and that, o one had enough money for my long-awaited come this far; let’s not give up just yet. if we live righ- Never told trip. A few days after I arrived in Utah, I know the Lord will help us. We just teously, we can be me about a my aunt drove me to the Salt Lake have to have faith.” together forever. ◼ temple recom- Temple. I was thrilled to see it in per- He then asked for my bishop’s Anne-Mette Howland, mend. My heart son and excited to do baptisms for the phone number in Denmark, which Utah, USA sank. I would dead. When I got to the entrance, how- have to be con- ever, a temple worker asked to see my tent with seeing temple recommend. No one had ever the temple from told me about a temple recommend! the outside. The worker kindly explained what a temple recommend is and told me that I could get one from my bishop. My heart sank. I would have to be content with visiting relatives and seeing the temple from the outside. During fast and testimony meeting the following Sunday, I felt the need to share my testimony, telling the FAMILY HOME EVENING IDEAS

Family Home Evening Journal Sharing

oes your journal sit journal. Sometimes we share journals, you might see if other the funny things they said unused in a drawer? recent entries; others are from relatives, such as grandparents, when they were younger and DWe are a journal- years past. We are always care- will let you read selections the lessons they have learned writing family, and it seemed ful to not share sensitive infor- from theirs. Hopefully you along the way. Writing in our a shame not to use them in mation. Each family member can encourage your family to journals is a much anticipated a productive way. So every may choose what to share. begin keeping journals. Our activity in our family. We Monday evening, one of our If your family hasn’t kept children enjoy hearing about know we’re not just writing goals is to read from a family for our future posterity. We are member’s journal. When each recording our thoughts and of our fi ve children was born, life experiences to benefi t our we started baby journals, family now. recording our thoughts and Stephanie Nixon, Florida, USA aspirations for them. When they were old enough to par- ticipate, they kept their own journals. With everyone’s con- tributions over the years, we have a lot of journal entries to choose from. Each week we share excerpts from a different family member’s ILLUSTRATION BY BETH MARION WHITTAKER ILLUSTRATION

HELPS FOR HOME EVENING

when they have been blessed by following the promptings of the Spirit.

“Making Mountains,” p. 46: This article compares overcoming challenges with climbing a mountain. You might be able to create an activity, such as climbing a hill or some stairs, that would help family members remember and apply the principle.

“I Will Be Found of You,” p. 80: “The Courage to Comfort,” p. 52: Stories can A fun activity awaken learner’s interest. We can often teach a prin- could be to play ciple more effectively when we fi rst share a story to hide-and-seek illustrate it. This helps learners understand the princi- as a family, and ple in terms of everyday experiences.“ (Teaching, No then relate the Greater Call, [1999] 93). Consider sharing a personal game to the story when you were able to offer comfort or when promise found someone offered comfort to you. in Jeremiah 29:13: “And ye shall seek me, and “Aided by the Spirit,” p. 18: After reading this arti- fi nd me, when ye shall search for me with all cle together, family members could share experiences your heart.”

70 Ensign Small & Simple Things

CHURCH HISTORY AROUND THE WORLD

Hong Kong SUGGESTIONS FOR BETTER TEACHING hina was dedicated for the 1965, followed by the Doctrine ê5SZUPBSSBOHFUIFTFBUJOH Cpreaching of the gospel and Covenants in 1974. The Hong TPZPVDBOTFFFBDIDMBTT on January 9, 1921, in Beijing Kong China Temple was the fi rst NFNCFSBOETPFWFSZPOFDBO by then Elder David O. McKay temple in the world built as a multi- TFFUIFDIBMLCPBSEBOEPUIFS (1873–1970) of the Quorum of use structure. The building also WJTVBMBJET the Twelve Apostles. However, contains a chapel, mission offi ces, ê8IFOUSZJOHUPQSPNPUF missionary work was limited to the and the temple president’s home. EJTDVTTJPO BWPJEZFTBOE city of Hong Kong. In 1949 Elder When Hong Kong returned to OPRVFTUJPOT*OTUFBEPGBTL (1897–1953) of Chinese control from British control Elder Matthew JOH å%JE/FQIJIBWFGBJUI æ Cowley, an Apostle, BTL å)PXEJE/FQIJTIPX the Quorum of the Twelve in 1997, the Hong Kong opened the Hong Apostles opened Mission became the China Kong Mission in IJTGBJUI æ the mission with a Hong Kong Mission. 1949. ê#FBUUFOUJWFXIFODMBTTNFN prayer from Victoria CFSTBSFBOTXFSJOHRVFTUJPOT Peak—the highest point PSDPNNFOUJOHTPUIFZLOPX overlooking the city. UIFJSUIPVHIUTBOEPQJOJPOT The Chinese trans- BSFBQQSFDJBUFE lation of the Book of ê*GZPVSNFFUJOHIPVTFIBTB Mormon was fi nished in MJCSBSZ BTLUIFMJCSBSJBOUP TIPXZPVXIBUãTBWBJMBCMF

UPVTFXJUIZPVSMFTTPO 1PTTJCJMJUJFTNJHIUJODMVEF By the Numbers HPTQFMBSUQJDUVSFT WJEFPTPS .FNCFSTJO)POH,POH   %7%T PSSFTPVSDFCPPLT .JTTJPOT 1 4UBLFT 4 %JTUSJDUT 1 8BSETBOE#SBODIFT  5FNQMFT 1

The Hong Kong China Temple. RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH OF HONG KONG © CORBIS; PHOTOGRAPH OF MATTHEW COWLEY COURTESY OF CHURCH HISTORY OF CHURCH HISTORY COWLEY COURTESY PHOTOGRAPH OF HONG KONG © CORBIS; MATTHEW RIGHT: AND PHOTOGRAPH OF HONG KONG CHINA TEMPLE BY CRAIG DIMOND; DRAWINGS LIBRARY; OF TEACHER BY HYUN-GYU LEE BY WELDEN C. ANDERSEN; PHOTO ILLUSTRATION WOOD SHAVINGS TEMPLE SPOTLIGHT One Act of Kindness Temple By Arinzechukwu Okere

ne never knows what a little Okindness can generate. One January, while serving in Akure in the Nigeria Lagos Mission, I had a small gift that I wanted to give to someone. I wondered, “Whom can I give it to that will benefi t from it?” I took the gift to church two Sundays, yet I was undecided. On the third Sunday, I went to church thinking I would give it to a good friend. He did not come to church that day, but I had a feeling that someone else needed it. Looking around the chapel, I saw a boy whose par- resident Joseph F. Smith (1838– President Heber J. Grant ents were not members of the P1918) dedicated the site for (1856–1945) dedicated the building Church. He seemed so lonely. I the temple at Cardston, Alberta, on August 26, 1923. felt impressed to give him the Canada, on July 27, 1913. It was the The temple is built of off-white As an Apostle, Elder David O. gift. I presented it to him, feeling old tabernacle square, originally granite from quarries near Nelson, McKay laid the very happy within. given to the Church by Charles Ora British Columbia. A veritable cornerstone of the Something wonderful hap- Card, who founded the settlement fortress of God in spiritual strength Cardston Alberta Temple in 1915. pened. His mother came to in 1887, when the immigrant Saints as well as physical appearance, church the following Sunday. fi rst arrived. Then Elder David O. the Cardston Alberta Temple has a She thanked me for the gift. She McKay (1873–1970) of the Quorum commanding view of the Canadian said, “I have been promising of the Twelve Apostles laid the prairie in all directions from my son that I would one day cornerstone on September 19, 1915. Cardston. come to church. Today I came to express my gratitude for the gift.” That was how my com- panion and I met her; since then she has joined the Church. How happy the boy was to see his mom fi nally baptized. I know that by small means great things are brought to pass.

One of the temple’s striking features is a 33-foot-wide (10-m) sculpted panel on the east side. The sculpture depicts the Savior offering living water to the Samaritan woman at the well. LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH OF CARDSTON ALBERTA TEMPLE BY ANITA SATTERFIELD; PHOTOGRAPH OF TROWEL BY JED CLARK; SATTERFIELD; TEMPLE BY ANITA PHOTOGRAPH OF CARDSTON ALBERTA LEFT: BY ELDON K. LINSCHOTEN; STUDIO; PHOTOGRAPH OF TEMPLE PANEL BY BOYART O. MCKAY PHOTOGRAPH OF PRESIDENT DAVID GEORGE HOMER DURHAM BOTTOM: PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY RIGHT, TOP: PHOTOGRAPHY VISUAL RESOURCE LIBRARY; RIGHT,

72 Ensign 4."--"/%4*.1-&5)*/(4

GREAT LIVES REMEMBERED Nathan Eldon Tanner

IMPORTANT DATES IN hough he was born in Salt father who played an THE LIFE OF PRESIDENT TLake City, Utah, N. Eldon active role in rearing and N. ELDON TANNER Tanner grew up in Canada, where nurturing his daugh- ê Born on May 9, 1898, in Salt his parents, Nathan William and ters from the time they Lake City, Utah. Sarah Edna Brown Tanner, had were infants. When he ê4VTUBJOFEBT"TTJTUBOUUPUIF helped settle the small town of became counselor to a Twelve on October 8, 1960. Aetna, near Cardston, Alberta. Their bishop in Cardston and ê0SEBJOFEBO"QPTUMFPO fi rst home was a one-room dugout adviser to the deacons October 11, 1962. cut from a hillside and reinforced quorum, Brother Tanner ê4VTUBJOFEBT4FDPOE$PVOTFMPS with timber. The hard farm life found that some of the UP1SFTJEFOU%BWJE0.D,BZ on the prairies of western Canada boys were not attending PO0DUPCFS 4FSWFEBT developed a strong work ethic and because their families 4FDPOE$PVOTFMPSUP1SFTJEFOU sense of responsibility in Nathan. could not afford Sunday clothes, and Above: Elder N. +PTFQI'JFMEJOH4NJUIBOEBT When he was young, the rest the boys were embarrassed to wear Eldon Tanner. Below, left: Elder 'JSTU$PVOTFMPSUP1SFTJEFOU of his family fell ill with smallpox. their overalls. He made an agree- and Sister Tanner )BSPME#-FFBOEUP1SFTJEFOU The neighbors were afraid to come ment with the boys, and when they with their family. 4QFODFS8,JNCBMM in because of the disease, so young showed up at priesthood meeting Below, right: Elder Tanner as a young ê%JFEPO/PWFNCFS  JO Nathan spent two nights and three the next Sunday wearing overalls, man. Salt Lake City, Utah. days without sleep as he cared for there was Brother Tanner, also the sick. wearing overalls. He won the hearts Despite heavy responsibilities of those boys, and soon they were When N. Eldon Tanner passed on the farm, Nathan completed his all active. away, President Ezra Taft schooling and became principal of N. Eldon Benson (1899–1994) of a three-room school, where he fell Tanner the Quorum of the Twelve in love with one of the teachers, became Apostles said of him: “Nathan Sara Isabelle Merrill. They married bishop of Eldon Tanner was one of and became the parents of fi ve the Cardston the great and noble men daughters. Ward, later of our time. He was N. Eldon Tanner’s reputation served as a recognized as a for hard work and integrity led to stake high giant among men. many leadership responsibilities in councilor, In the annals of government and business. He was and then Church history he speaker of the house in the Alberta became will be remembered legislature, a minister in the provin- president of as one of the infl u- cial cabinet, president of a petroleum the newly formed Calgary Alberta ential counselors in company, and head of the company Stake. It was while he was serving the First Presidency of that built the 2,000-mile (3,220-km) as stake president that the call came the Church.”1 Trans-Canada Pipeline. to serve as a NOTE 1. In “President N. Eldon But his family and the Church and Assistant to the Quorum of the Tanner Dies,” Ensign, always came fi rst. He was a devoted Twelve in October 1960. Jan. 1983, 11.

January 2010 73 News of the Church

Changing the World One Virtuous Woman at a Time By Heather Whittle Wrigley Church Magazines

n April 2008, the newly called Young Women the reason for everything we are doing in Young general presidency—Elaine S. Dalton, Mary N. Women, because it will help these young women ICook, and Ann M. Dibb—stood atop Ensign to come unto Christ.” Peak on the northern edge of Salt Lake City and Virtue was officially added to the Young looked out over the valley. Women values in November 2008. It is defined From their vantage point the figure of the angel in the Personal Progress book as “a pattern of Moroni sparkled on the Salt Lake Temple, and thought and behavior based on high moral stan- they knew then what the Lord had in mind for the dards. It includes chastity and purity” (Young young women of the Church. Women Personal Progress [booklet, 2009], 70). The three women held aloft a walking stick This value is unique in that all the experiences from which waved a gold Peruvian shawl—their and the value project are required, where the other banner and ensign to the nations, a call for a values allow young women to choose from several return to virtue. options. In addition, mothers have been invited to “We cannot get caught up with this new value complete the Personal Progress program with their of virtue without saying the reason for the value is daughters and earn their own medallions. the temple,” Sister Dalton said. “And the temple is A Value for All In the last year, young women and others Young women and their leaders in the Santo around the world have responded overwhelm- Domingo Dominican Republic Independencia Stake ingly to the call to return to virtue, flooding the ascended Cambita Garabito, a mountain in the Young Women office with letters and photo- Dominican Republic, where they raised their own graphs from those who have answered banner to virtue in August 2009. the call. Many have climbed PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IVÁN HEREDIA OF IVÁN PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY

74 Ensign

mountains and unfurled their own banners. being virtuous women. “[The addition of virtue] The project for the value of virtue is to fol- has created an excitement for women who have low the Savior’s admonition to learn of Him The Young made wrong choices. Many have said, ‘I can be a (see D&C 19:23) by reading the entire Book of Womanhood virtuous woman again. . . . It is possible for me,’” Mormon and recording thoughts regularly in a Recognition Sister Cook said. journal. medallion has Many of those who desire to be virtuous again The Book of Mormon teaches about societies a new design. wonder where they can start. The Young Women that prospered and were happy when they were presidency shares with them this formula: Pray virtuous and pure but that fell when they were night and morning. Read in the Book of Mormon no longer virtuous, Sister Dibb said. five minutes or more each day. And smile. Men and women have been equally enthusias- “If all women in the Church and the world did tic about the new value, the Young Women pres- this, think what the world would be like in five idency said, citing examples of entire groups of years,” Sister Dalton said. “We really do believe young men and singles wards that have worked that virtuous young women led by the Spirit can on the value together. change the world.” ◼ Sister Dibb emphasized that both men and women must focus on virtue to obtain the great- PERSONAL PROGRESS UPDATED est blessings. “Men have no power or strength to exercise the priesthood that they receive if they are not morally pure,” she said. “And women he Young Women general presidency has updated Personal receive that power and strength to fulfill their TProgress materials to reflect recent changes. divine callings as wives, mothers, and as women The new Personal Progress booklet has a pink cover and as they practice virtue.” includes the activities for the new eighth value—virtue—that was added at the end of 2008. Most of the value activities Return to Virtue remain the same, but some have changed slightly to be more Sister Dalton said she believes that now is the current and more focused on temple covenants. time to emphasize the value of virtue, a time when The Young Womanhood Recognition medallion now depicts, the world does everything but promote virtue. in addition to the temple spires, a beehive that suggests “It’s interesting to us that in this world so many harmony, cooperation, and work; the Mia Maid rose for love, young women can lose sight of their identity as faith, and purity; and the laurel wreath, which stands for honor daughters of God,” Sister Cook said. “We’re just and accomplishment. A small ruby in the center of the rose reminding them of that, and also of the fact that if symbolizes the new value of virtue (see Proverbs 31:10) and the you have made a mistake, you can repent.” completion of Personal Progress. The commitment to remain virtuous and pure Additional materials include a new theme poster and scrip- is possible because of the enabling and redeem- ture ribbons. The ribbons will be given at the completion of ing power of the Savior’s Atonement, Sister Dibb value experiences and projects. said. The fourth value experience focuses on The materials are currently available in English, Spanish, and repentance. Portuguese. Content in 51 additional languages will become In the last year, many women—both old and available throughout early 2010. ◼ young—have communicated a desire to return to

January 2010 75 NEWS OF THE CHURCH

Youth to Celebrate We hope priesthood and auxiliary leaders and teachers will use the DVD in their classes to teach a Brand New Year standards and in activities to help youth commit By Ryan Kunz to live and apply these standards in their lives.” Church Magazines Church leaders have encouraged local priest- hurch units worldwide will receive a DVD hood and auxiliary leaders to review the DVD entitled A Brand New Year: 2010 Youth and use it in their meetings and activities. The CCelebration. The DVD introduces the 2010 first segment of the DVD can be used in New Mutual theme and can be used to supplement Year’s Eve activities or other special events where youth classes, quorum meetings, Mutual, bishop’s the theme is presented. The remaining segments youth discussions, and other activities throughout the year. The 2010 Mutual theme is “Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dis- mayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whither- soever thou goest” ( Joshua 1:9; emphasis added). The first segment of A Brand New Year: 2010 Youth Celebration features a special message from Elder M. Russell Ballard, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and a musical montage of youth throughout the world. The DVD also contains nine additional seg- ments, which include inspiring messages in the form of stories, testimonies, music, and special presentations from the Young Men and Young Women general presidencies. These segments focus on gospel standards from For the Strength of Youth, including education, family and friends, music and dancing, dating and virtue, health, service, and repentance. Young people from all over the world share

their thoughts and testimonies throughout the PHOTOGRAPH BY TYLER HARRIS DVD. “We are excited for the youth of the Church Manuel Sarábia are designed to be used throughout the year to to be able to see each other on this DVD and be of Mexico shares expand upon the theme. strengthened by each others’ testimonies,” said his experiences The segments are published with subtitles Elaine S. Dalton, Young Women general president. on the DVD. in Cantonese, English, French, German, Italian, “Those who watch will see courageous youth Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, everywhere choosing to live the standards [of the and Spanish. Material from the DVD is also avail- Church] and making a difference in the world. able for download on the Internet. ◼

76 Ensign Members Assist Additional with Measles Initiative New Temple Presidents ince the Church joined posters and banners, help at the Measles Initiative and vaccination posts, and develop Announced SPartnership in 2003, thou- radio and TV spots. One young he following new temple presidents and sands of Church members have returned missionary composed matrons join those previously announced in helped in the effort to eliminate a musical jingle for the cam- Tthe December 2009 issue. the disease. paign in Madagascar. This jingle Temple President and Matron Approximately 56,000 Church has been translated and sung in members around the world have 28 languages on dozens of radio Cebu City Philippines Gerald E. and Linda G. Mortimer Oquirrh Mountain Utah provided more than 600,000 stations in most countries where Alan S. and Leslie P. Layton Palmyra New York William H. and Kathy Sherwood hours of service in 32 countries the campaign has taken place. Papeete Tahiti Michael F. and Maria T. Moody in Africa, Asia, and Central and Cape Verde, a string of islands Porto Alegre Brazil Lennis M. and Peggy L. Knighton South America. a few hundred miles off the coast Preston England Albert and Aileen F. Roy A group of humanitarian of western Africa, is one of the Recife Brazil Frederick G. and Carol Y. Williams organizations—the American many countries where Church Redlands California Eldon H. and Flora H. Morgan Regina Saskatchewan Red Cross, the United Nations members volunteered. In the Robert A. and Claudia R. Gehmlich Sacramento California William W. And Shanna N.Parmley Foundation, U.S. Centers for March 2009 campaign, members San José Costa Rica Arthur L. and Elaine A. Porter Disease Control and Prevention, helped make possible the vacci- São Paulo Brazil Stanley D. and Sheryl L. Neeleman UNICEF, and the World Health nations of more than 50,000 chil- St. Louis Missouri Grant Richard and Linda Oscarson Organization—founded the dren. More than 600 members Stockholm Sweden Paul K. and Bonnie L. Oscarson Measles Initiative and Partnership in Cape Verde volunteered 4,200 Taipei Taiwan Harvey G. and Sherry W. Horner in 2001 with the goal of reduc- hours to promote the campaign The Gila Valley Arizona Keith and Kathleen M. Crockett Tokyo Japan ing the number of deaths due to door-to-door. Tohru and Sachiko T. Hotta Vancouver British Columbia measles worldwide by 90 per- From the beginning of the ini- Cordell B. and Marilyn J. Rolfson cent by the end of 2010. tiative in 2001 to December 2008, Veracruz Mexico David K. and Mayrene H. Bickmore As part of the Church’s com- 600 million children and youth Villahermosa Mexico Jorge and Bertha T. Méndez ◼ mitment to the initiative, which have been vaccinated in the target included a US $3 million dona- countries, resulting in a 74 per- tion, the First Presidency invited cent decrease in measles deaths Church members in affected around the world and an 89 countries, under the direction percent decrease in Africa alone. Correction of local priesthood and Relief Deaths due to measles decreased The new temple recently announced for Society leaders, to participate in from 750,000 in 2000 to 197,000 Fortaleza, Brazil, in the November edition of the helping to organize and publi- in 2007, bringing the world much magazine will be the seventh temple in Brazil, not cize the vaccination campaigns. closer to the United Nations’ goal the sixth. Along with the temple announced for Church members hand out of fewer than 100,000 deaths Concepción, Chile, it brings the total number of information sheets, hang street worldwide by the end of 2010. temples in South America to 14. ◼

January 2010 77 WORLD BRIEFS

Elder Bednar Meets with Members Music and Cultural Arts of Scottish Parliament Submissions Wanted Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles met with ministers of the Scottish his year’s deadline for anthems, hymn arrangements, Parliament for two hours in September to discuss members to submit orig- and instrumental and other how Scottish members can support moral issues Tinal music and theatrical works. and to highlight Church teachings on the impor- works to be considered for pub- Cultural arts submissions tance of the family. The meeting at the Holyrood lication or performance by the may be theatrical scripts includ- Parliament Building in Edinburgh included five Church is March 31, 2010. ing dramas, comedies, and ministers of Parliament. Elder Bednar and other Selected music is presented musicals. Poetry and oratorios Church leaders also visited Ireland for several in the Church Music Festival, with performance value have Church meetings. and selected scripts and poetry also been accepted. are shared in the Cultural The works submitted should African Saints Mobilize in Day of Service Arts Submission Presentation. be suitable for use in Church Wearing yellow vests, members in more than Occasionally works are selected units, teach gospel principles 30 countries enjoyed the third All-Africa Service for future publication on the in uplifting ways, be doctrinally Project in August 2009. In Ivory Coast, Liberia, and Church Web site or in the correct, and accurate if histori- Sierra Leone members repaired roads, fixed up Church magazines. cally based. old homes, and cleared drainage. In Kenya, South Music submissions include For more information, Africa, and Cameroon they scrubbed jail cells and songs, children’s songs, hymns, call 801-240-6492. ◼ restrooms, planted trees, fixed roads, and worked in orphanages. The Church partnered with service Music Submission groups, other denominations, and government Guidelines can be found at www.lds.org/churchmusic. Click on Music, agencies in the effort. then Other Music, then Church Music Submissions. Cultural Arts Submission Church Holds Auditions for Nauvoo Pageant Cultural arts submissions should include: The Church needs professional-quality actors 1. Two copies of the script and any associated music on 8 1/2 x 11 for 20 roles in the 2010 Nauvoo Pageant. Cast inch (22 x 28 cm) paper. members must be experienced, faithful members 2. A statement signed by all contributors that says, “The work of the Church, ages 20 to 60. Weekly rehearsals submitted, entitled ‘______,’ is my original work, is owned by will be held in Salt Lake City in May and June. The me, and conforms to the submission rules.” show runs July 6 through 31. Auditions are January 3. A cover letter with the piece’s title; author’s name, address, phone number, and e-mail address; central theme; synopsis; 15 and 16 in Provo and January 19 through 21 in and cast requirements. North Salt Lake. Schedule an audition by calling The names of all contributors should appear on the cover letter, script, 801-240-6492. See nauvoopageant.org for more and signed statement. information. ◼ Send cultural arts submissions to: Church Theatrical Script Cultural Arts Submission, 50 E. North Temple St. Rm. 2082 Salt Lake City, Utah, 84150-6070, USA.

78 Ensign

In Other Church Magazines HERE’S WHAT’S IN THE NEW ERA

WE WANT THE BEST FOR YOU: ELDER JEFFREY R. HOLLAND Elder Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles tells youth that happiness can only be found by living the gospel of Jesus Christ.

MUTUAL THEME FOR 2010: “BE STRONG AND OF A GOOD COURAGE” The Mutual theme for the year comes from Joshua 1:9. Read a message from the Young Men and Young Women general presidencies, and a Line upon Line feature providing specific explanation of the scripture from which the theme is taken.

HERE’S WHAT’S IN THE FRIEND

A YEAR ON TEMPLE SQUARE Each month in 2010, the Friend will include an article featuring a different part of Temple Square. The January 2010 Friend features the opportunity a 11-year-old girl had to visit the grounds outside of the Salt Lake Temple. Friend readers will get a closer look at Temple Square and learn why it is an important place.

I KNOW THAT MY SAVIOR LOVES ME The Friend has included a teaching guide that Primary leaders and parents can use to help children learn “I Know that My Savior Loves Me.” The teaching guide focuses on helping children recognize similar phrases in the song’s two verses.

January 2010 79 UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN

“I WILL BE FOUND OF YOU” By Aaron L. West Curriculum Department PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DAVID STOKER BY DAVID PHOTO ILLUSTRATION t the conclusion of our Sunday School My thoughts turned to the hide-and-seek games lesson, Sister Hart asked us to turn to my wife and I played with our young children. A Jeremiah 29. She said she would read We wanted them to search for us, but we also verses 12–14 aloud, and she asked us to ponder the meaning of the words. wanted to be found. “Then shall ye call upon me,” she read, “and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. “And I will be found of you, saith the Lord . . .” to search for Him, but He also wants us to find Sister Hart went on, finishing verse 14, but my Him—He knows how happy we will be when thoughts lingered happily behind, savoring the we do. He does not try to trick us. Rather, He promise “I will be found of you.” I was reminded of does all He can to help us know where and the times when my wife, Emma, and I played hide- how to search: He gives us the scriptures, calls and-seek with our young children. When it was prophets, listens to our prayers, guides us by our turn to hide and their turn to seek, we always the power of the Holy Ghost, blesses us with made ourselves easy to find. Sometimes we made temples and priesthood ordinances and family noises or left a foot in plain view so they would find and friends. And if we have found Him some- us quickly. Sometimes we hid in the same place where once, we are sure to find Him there again repeatedly. We wanted the children to search for if we are willing to renew our search. us, but we also wanted them to find us. We looked “I will be found of you, saith the Lord.” What forward to their hugs and their joyful, unrestrained a comforting promise! In a world where trouble giggles of triumph. and temptations seem to find us so easily, it is This memory deepened my understanding of reassuring to know that our greatest source of our Heavenly Father’s love for us. He wants us strength is so easy to find. ◼

80 Ensign

COURTESY OF LEO AND ANNETTE BEUS COURTESY WORDS OF CHRIST

Jesus in the Synagogue at Nazareth, by Greg K. Olsen captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised [see Isaiah 61:1 ]. . . . “And when [ Jesus] had opened the book [of Isaiah], he found the place where it was written, “And he [said] unto them, This day is this scripture fulfi lled. . . . “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent “And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the word was with power” (Luke 4:17–18, 21, 32).

eginning with this issue, the Ensign will look a bit different on the inside. Some of the new items Byou see will be carried in both the Liahona, the Church’s international magazine, and the Ensign. To learn about these new items, as well as how to find all the things that interest you in the Ensign, go to page 10.