My road to the Temple

I've been wanting to do this post for awhile. I had a wonderful opportunity on December 7, 2013 to go to the Palmyra, NY temple to receive my endowment. There was a lot of hard work and preparation that went into me being ready to go, and I'd like to share some of the aspects of that, some of my thoughts and feelings in the temple, and again, why temples are so important.

I was raised in a Christian home. That was very crucial to my being where I am today. I was taught some of the basics of the gospel: how the world was created, the ministry of Jesus Christ, and his atoning sacrifice among many other topics. I was encouraged to read the Bible and to search and understand the truth for myself. I did various mission trips in my youth, spreading the gospel to people in Rhode Island, Panama, and Poland. All the time my understanding of the Bible was growing. I even attended a Christian undergraduate institute, Messiah College, which started to push the limits of my knowledge. I was exposed to so many different denominations and interpretations of the same principles. While it was very enlightening, it was also quite confusing.

For example, I knew that it was important to pray, and I had learned that you could pray in any manner. I just never really understood the purpose of it, and found it quite boring. Another aspect was heaven. I had learned that heaven was this place where you lived forever, and ever, and ever. That thought frightened me. Like how the last verse in "Amazing Grace" goes, "When we've been there, ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun. We've no less days, to sing God's praise, then when we've first begun." I actually used to get sick to my stomach whenever I thought of that. I was scared of the aspect of something never ending.

All of this changed when I went off to medical school. I changed cities, changed friend groups, and changed churches. I was trying to figure out where I fit in, what exactly I believed. I had watched my life start to change in ways that I didn't like. My standards were being questioned, tweaked, altered, and in some cases, dropped completely. I did not like the way my life was headed. Thankfully, one of my friends decided to invite me to go to his Church, then to answer questions, give me a copy of the Book of Mormon, and always to be there for me. I was learning so much from going to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It was incredible! Never before had I come in with so many different questions, had them all answered, and even ones that I had never before considered. I was learning about prayer, how it's part of a two-way communication with our Heavenly Father who really does lead, guide, and direct our lives. I was learning that in heaven, families can be together forever. That marriage is supposed to be eternal, and not just end after death. Those last two items are only feasible with the temple.

As I started meeting with the missionaries, I began to learn some very important eternal truths. I learned that faith is an action word. Alma 32:21, "And now as I said concerning faith-faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." Faith is more than just having a hope in something, but then also doing something about it to get it accomplished. 

Faith is one of the first tenets of the gospel. Specifically, having a faith in God and His most perfect Son who was sent to atone for our sins. After this faith and knowledge, this should change the way we act and the things which we do. This leads to repentance.

According to the Bible dictionary: "the Greek word of which this is the translation denotes a change of mind, i.e., a fresh view about God, about oneself, and about the world." Repentance is more than just feeling bad for the wrong which was done, it's being willing to change the way you were living your life, leave the sins behind, and start following the Savior.

Alma 5:26, "And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now?"

The next step is baptism. Baptism needs to happen via immersion and by someone who is holding the priesthood. Only someone with the proper authority can do this. This authority is given by the laying on of hands. And the priesthood holders can trace their line of authority back to Jesus Christ, who first organized the priesthood. Baptism then needs to be sealed by receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. There's a good explanation of this in Acts.

Acts 19:1-6, "And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues and prophesied."

This is a good example of what I was mentioning earlier. When Paul met up with some followers, he learned that their baptism hadn't been complete because they hadn't received the gift of the Holy Ghost. Therefore, they were baptized again, this time in Jesus' name, and then received the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. This is why when someone from another church joins The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, they need to be baptized again and then receive the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands (just like how it was done in biblical times).

The next step is called enduring to the end. Just because someone has gone through all these steps does not mean that their task is done. They need to keep true to the covenants they have made and follow the commandments and words of the prophets. Part of this includes the temple.

On all LDS temples there is written, "Holiness to the Lord, House of the Lord." In the temple, worthy church members can receive special revelation and guidance. We are also taught truths in the temple, things that help us return to live with Heavenly Father again. We have to be worthy to enter the temple. Many times in the Scriptures God has said that He cannot live in filthy temples. There are certain standards that we live: obeying the Word of Wisdom, the commandments, the Law of Chastity, the Law of Tithing, being honest with others, and other things like that.

To enter the temple to receive my endowment I did different things. I attended a temple prep class and read an excellent book called, "Your Endowment" by Mark A. Shields. However, I'm not sure if anything could have fully prepared me for this, since it was such an amazing experience. "Endowment-Comes from a Latin word that means the conferral or bestowal of a gift. The "heavenly gift" spoken of in the scriptures may be a reference to this definition (4 Nephi 1:3; Ether 12:8). Our endowment is the gift from God that enables us to return to His presence" (page 19). During the endowment we learn about creation and also how to return to the presence of God. We are clothed in garments, which are clothing we wear closest to our skin to help us remember the sacred covenants that we have made. Just like other religions have different items to signify religious aspects, we do the same. We don't talk about these things, not because we are ashamed, or because they are secret, but because they are sacred. If you want to read a little bit more about the garments, click here.

Throughout the entire ceremony, I learned a lot. I don't remember everything now, nor will I, unless I return frequently and do the saving work for others who have passed on. One thing I do know is that everything that we did in the temple was scripturally based. Nothing was strange. I also know that I really enjoyed feeling the peace that comes along with the Spirit testifying of the truth of the different aspects of the temple. Temples are where heaven and earth meet, and I have a testimony of that.

I would encourage members to do what is needed in your life so that you can enter the temple, and learn from God. For non-members, I would encourage you to go see the outside of a temple nearby. Walk around, and take in the feelings that are associated. Also, go to a temple open-house. These do exist. After a temple is completed, it is open to the public, for free, for about a month. Anybody can go in and look through all the rooms. There is nothing hidden. After that period of time, it becomes dedicated and then only members can enter. There is an open house for the Gilbert, AZ temple from mid-January to mid-February of 2014, and the Philadelphia temple is due to be completed in 2016. To learn more about temples, visit the church's site.

Where I received my endowment: Palmyra NY Temple.

40 Days and 40 Nights Challenge

I love challenges. I like being stretched to my uttermost capacities and trying things that I never thought before was possible. So, I found a new challenge for myself. While I was perusing facebook in between studying, I noticed a post from the 40 Days and 40 Nights Challenge. Interested, I clicked on the page and read the concept behind it. Read either the entire Book of Mormon or the New Testament in only 40 Days and 40 Nights. Sounds quite feasible. Do them both at the same time, now, that would make a challenge.

That is what I have embarked on doing: reading the entire Book of Mormon and the whole New Testament in 40 Days and 40 Nights. Since I started this journey on November 22nd, I will be finishing on December 31. Every day I am averaging about 6 chapters per set of Scriptures. The schedule also has at least one verse to mark and ponder for that day from the reading. What has been the most interesting part of that so far is how well what I've been reading in 1 Nephi has been coinciding with what I've been reading in Matthew. But, there is more than just reading, marking, and pondering involved.

Every day and evening I am supposed to start my reading with a prayer: to have an increased understanding of Jesus Christ, His teachings, and His mission here on earth, to be prepared for spiritual experiences to invite others to learn more about Christ, and for opportunities to do missionary work and acts of kindness throughout the day.

I am also keeping a journal of what I've been reading and learning. I am also supposed to share with others my testimony of what I have been experiencing. 

From Day 1: One thing that I have noticed in reading 1 Nephi 1-3 is that whenever the Lord asks for something to be done, He always provides a way for it to be accomplished. We just need to have the faith to do it.

From Day 2: In Matthew 12:50, "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother." I love this verse because it points out how those who follow Christ are united, like a family unit. That's why in the Church we call each other "Brother" or "Sister", because we all follow Christ.

And, from today, Day 3: With the Liahona, the Lord provides a way to teach Lehi's family to just be diligent and have faith. That's all the Lord ever asks of us is to be diligent in following his commands and to keep up our faith in Him.

I would like to bear my testimony. I know that by reading the Scriptures that we can grow closer to our Heavenly Father. I have learned so much from reading through the Bible cover to cover, my reading of the Pearl of Great Price, reading the Doctrine and Covenants, and reading the Book of Mormon through twice. Each set of Scriptures has taught me something unique and superb. I have learned how these Scriptures truly do compliment each other and do belong together. I know that by studying all of them, that we will be enabled to answer the tough questions of this life. I leave this things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

And...if anyone is interested in joining me on my challenge, visit this site: click here to learn more.

The Plan of Salvation

First off, I want to thank all of you who have been reading my blog. I have just tipped over 2000 views since I first started this in April of this year. I am really excited that I have had the great privilege to discuss the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints with so many people. I hope that I have done a good job clearing up some misconceptions that people may have concerning the church.

This post is entitled, "The Plan of Salvation". For all the missionaries or returned missionaries out there, this is affectionately called "Lesson 2" or "Why am I here? Where did I come from? Where am I going?".

I'll start off at the beginning (a very good place to start...). 

Pre-Earth Life. God is the Father of our spirits, which means that we are literally His children. We existed as spirits before we were born on the earth. We learned while we were in the pre-earth life that we could not receive all of the blessings that God had to offer because we did not have a physical body. Jesus Christ offered a plan where He would atone for our sins, and that we would have the option to choose for ourselves what we would do in life. Satan also presented a plan where everyone would follow God's commandments, be we would not have any free will at all. God rejected Satan's plan and accepted Christ's. One of the paramount parts of this plan was that we were all given agency, or free will, and we can choose to follow whoever we want. During our time on earth, we are physically separated from God, but He wants us to return to Him and become like Him.

Creation. Jesus Christ created the world under guidance of Heavenly Father. Moses 2:1, "And it came to pass that the Lord spake unto Moses, saying: Behold, I reveal unto you concerning this heaven, and this earth; write the word which I speak. I am the Beginning and the End, the Almighty God; by mine Only Begotten I created these things; yea, in the beginning I created the heaven, and the earth upon which thou standest."  The earth was created so we could obtain a body and be tested. We don't remember pre-earth life. We must walk by faith, rather than sight, since we are out of the Lord's presence. 2 Corinthians 5:6-7, "Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)".

Agency & The Fall of Adam and Eve. Adam and Eve were the first of God's children to come to earth and receive a physical body. While in the Garden of Eden, they lived in perfect innocence. In the Garden, God gave them agency and commanded them not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. God had also commanded them to be fruitful and multiply. However, Adam and Eve were innocent. If they obeyed the commandment to not eat of the fruit, they would have lived forever, and they wouldn't have progressed because they would never had been tried. 2 Nephi 2:22, 25-26, "And now, behold, if Adam had not transgressed he would not have fallen, but he would have remained in the garden of Eden. And all things which were created must have remained in the same state in which they were after they were created; and they must have remained forever, and had no end...Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy. And the Messiah cometh in the fulness of time, that he may redeem the children of men from the fall. And because that they are redeemed from the fall they have become free forever, knowing good from evil; to act for themselves and not to be acted upon, save it be by the punishment of the law at the great and last day, according to the commandments which God hath given." Satan tempted Adam and Eve to eat of the fruit, which they did, and this was part of God's plan. When this happened, they were cast out of the garden, out of the physical presence of God (the Fall). When they became separated from God's presence, this is called spiritual death. They now could experience everything of life, joys and suffering, and had complete agency to choose good or evil. That way they could learn, progress and have children.

Our Life on Earth. This is the time to be tried and to be blessed. We are working to return to live in God's presence. We are subject to both a physical and a spiritual death. God has a perfect, immortal body of flesh and bones. To return to His presence, we must have the same. Due to the fall, we have an imperfect body. Through our Savior Jesus Christ, we have hope (thanks to the Atonement). We now sin and feel guilt and remorse for our bad choices. We cannot return to God's presence unless we are forgiven and clean. Moses 6:57, "Wherefore teach it unto your children, that all men, everywhere, must repent, or they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God, for no unclean thing can dwell there, or dwell in his presence." On earth we experience both joy and sorrow, which helps us grow and make good decisions. However, we cannot do this properly without Christ's Atonement.

The Atonement. Before the world was organized, Jesus Christ was chosen as our savior and redeemer, as the only way to overcome the fall. Jesus overcame physical death for us. His death on the cross caused his spirit to separate from his body. When he was resurrected, the spirit and flesh reunited, never to be separated again. He appeared to many people, showing he has an immortal body of flesh and bones. Resurrection is the reuniting of the spirit with the body, and this is a gift for everyone. We will all be resurrected, and then we will be judged. In order to live in God's presence, we must be cleansed from sin. We are not responsible for the Fall, but we are responsible for our own sins. Sin keeps us from God's presence. We get cleansed from sin by: having faith in Jesus Christ, repenting, being baptized, receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit, and enduring to the end. For this plan of salvation, Jesus paid the penalty for all the sins that would ever be committed. He was the only person to ever live a sinless life. He suffered all the sins, pain and suffering, so much that he bled from every pore. He did this to show his love for us. We need to do what God commands, to be cleansed from sin. Christ's atonement can help us in times of pain, suffering, and trials. However, we have to choose this gift in order to receive it.

The Spirit World. All people must die so we can pass from mortality to immortality. Death causes our spirits to enter the spirit world. We still have the same personalities, likes and dislikes there. Those who chose God in life will live in a state of happiness, peace, and rest (Spirit Paradise). Those who rejected God live in a state of unhappiness (Spirit Prison). The gospel will be preached to those who didn't receive it before in the Spirit Prison. Everybody will stay in the Spirit World until the first resurrection.

The Resurrection, Judgment, and Immortality. After the body and spirit reunite (resurrection) we will be judged by God. We will remember all the good and evil we have done. If we have repented, we will get mercy. Then we get rewarded according to our works and desires. Immortality is a free gift to all people, because of Christ's atonement. Eternal life is not the same as immortality. Eternal life is given by God to those who obeyed his gospel. Eternal life is exaltation, living with God forever in eternal families. We would get to experience the life God and Jesus Christ enjoy.

Kingdoms of Glory. God will reward us according to the good and bad choices we made during life. 1 Corinthians 15:40-42, "There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, an the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption." 

Celestial Kingdom. Those who repented of sins, received the ordinances of the gospel, and kept covenants they made. Through the Atonement they are able to live in God's presence, become like Him, and receive a fullness of joy.

Terrestrial Kingdom. Those who don't accept the fullness of the gospel of Christ but live an honorable life.

Telestial Kingdom. People who stayed in their sins and did not repent.

I want to bear my testimony that I know these things to be true. I know that we will be judged according to our deeds, but also that God is a merciful God, giving us many opportunities to return to live with Him. I know that this Plan of Salvation is really a plan of peace and joy, if we are willing to do what is right to return to live with God. I say these things, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

One year a member

This is my favorite time of the year. Not only because of the wonderful fall weather, with the cool, crisp air, and the beautiful leaves falling around. Not only because with fall comes warmer clothes with earthy toned colors. Not only for the hustle and bustle of school and all the excitement with which it brings. No, none of those are the real reason why this time will be, for now and forever, my favorite time of the year. This is when I got baptized.

At this point, last year, I was making the first step in a crucial journey to return back to live with Heavenly Father. I got baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints October 20, 2012. This decision was a hard one for me to make. It meant changing how I viewed the world, what I understood concerning Scriptures, how God continues to communicate with His people, and how much God really does love me. It meant having to deal with various struggles and trials as many people did not understand why I was changing, or why I was joining this church, out of all the churches that there are (or ever could be). But, time and time again, my thoughts and reasons point back to the same thing: because I know it is true.

That statement, "because I know it is true" is a simple one, but with it comes a lot of understanding, researching, prayer, and revelation. I was introduced to this church by a good friend of mine named Rob. He invited me one week to attend church with him. It took me a little bit of encouragement, but eventually I did attend. I also started going to Institute (a form of Scripture study), and attending all the various meetings. With each encounter, I was coming to the realization that my knowledge of all things pertaining to God was increasing. I was having concepts explained to me so much clearer than I had ever experienced before. The reasoning for this is that I was finally receiving the complete, restored message of Christ.

I remember when I first met with the missionaries. I met Elder Colvin and Elder O'Laughlin on September 23, 2012. Two random teenage boys, that I had never met before, come in, to share a message of Christ. When they talked, they were transformed before my eyes. They went from being simply teenage boys, to being men of Christ, who have been called and set-apart to share the message of His Gospel. They spoke with authority, love, and clarity. I was surprising myself, and my friends who were with me at the time as well, when at the end of the lesson, I took up Elder O'Laughlin's invitation, and scheduled all of the lessons, including baptism, on that first meeting. Now, at that time, I wasn't sure exactly why I was doing it, but my inner being definitely knew. The Holy Ghost was witnessing of the truthfulness of what these young men were saying. I knew that this was what I needed to do with my life.

I began to pray. I prayed every day with a fervor and intent that I had never experienced before. I prayed, because I knew that my eternal salvation was at stake, and I needed to make the right decision. I prayed, and read the Book of Mormon every day. I can honestly say from my prayers, and my studying, and my reading it alongside with the Bible, that the Book of Mormon is inspired Scripture. The teachings of Christ that come from that book match up extremely well with the Savior's teachings in the Bible. The two dovetail together perfectly. The Holy Spirit testified to me that the Book of Mormon is true and is God-breathed. Knowing this, knowing that the Church was true, that the Book of Mormon is Scripture, that God still communicates to people through a Prophet, that the Church is restored, gave me the strength and courage to press on. I pressed on and through, even though I had many individuals who were upset, angry, and hurt with my decision. I pressed on, and I will continue to press on, because I know it is true.

My baptism was a beautiful day. I had the great opportunity yesterday to witness a friend of mine also get baptized into the Church. She's had to go through similar trials that I have. But, the Comforter has always been there to strengthen us in times of trouble and despair. I know that she has made the right choice, that it won't always be easy, but that she will be blessed.

My life has changed in many ways over this past year. I have grown stronger in my testimony (knowledge) of the Church. I have learned from Prophets and Apostles, men who have been called by God to preside over the Church. I have been taught by teachers, friends, missionaries, and children, both inside and outside of the Church. I have been encouraged from my studies, and the different lessons I have learned. I have been blessed, from God both directly and indirectly for the choices that I have made. I have become a better example to those that I serve, in particular the Young Women at the church. I have become more comfortable in sharing what I believe in, and I now look for opportunities to share with others what I believe in. I have been blessed by being able to attend the Temple, and I look forward to the other blessings that will become available from going there. I now experience peace and clarity of mind concerning some of my past misdeeds. I know that they have been completely forgiven and that they don't matter any more. I love teaching with the missionaries, and I hope to be able to continue on, for years to come.

This Church has truly blessed my life. Please feel free to ask me how, or if you want answers to any other questions. I love this Church. I love the Gospel and the love of Christ. Any question that is asked of me with a keen intent, or in a friendly manner, I will answer.

May God truly bless your life.

Charity: the pure love of Christ

Today I have spent some time thinking about what I most wanted to share with people today. I have had the chance recently to celebrate my birthday with some of those that I love and cherish dearly. I got to interact with my friends, and just felt blessed from all the love that they were showering on me. I know that Heavenly Father has been blessing my life through their actions. Thinking this way, has made me become even more aware of all the blessings in my life. I really want to bless others in a similar manner. To do this, I need to work on developing my charity.

According to the Bible dictionary, charity is, "the highest, noblest, strongest kind of love, not merely affection; the pure love of Christ" (632). This concept of charity comes from the prophet Moroni, who took over writing in the Book of Mormon from his father Mormon. It says in Moroni 7:45-47, "And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail-- But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him."

Charity is the pure love of Christ. We need to love like Christ loved all mankind: fully, completely, with no reservations at all. I mean, Christ even loved Judas when he ended up betraying Him in the Garden of Gethsemane. That is a perfect type of love. To love in this manner, we need to help those who need help themselves. There are so many poor, sick, or lonely people in this world that need love and support. Many people have reached a point in their life where they don't believe that life is worth living anymore. These ones especially need our complete love. When we help others in the manner similar to Christ's, we will inherit the kingdom of God. Matthew 25:40, "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

When we help others, we need to have the right mindset. If we are doing it purely for gain, or to build ourselves up, we are missing the point and won't feel satisfied.  We need to feel compassion for those we help, to care for them, and to be kind towards them. In dealing with all people, we also must remember to forgive others. When we show God that we are willing to forgive others, then He in return will forgive us for our sins. Christ also said in Matthew 5:44, 46, "I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you...For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye?" It is really easy to love those who show that love right back to you. It is harder to love those that hurt us, upset us, or are mean towards us. Christ was that perfect example, by even loving the soldiers who drove the nails into his hands and his feet.

There are practical ways in which we can develop our charity towards others. First, we can study the life of Christ by reading the scriptures. In it, we learn of how he dealt with people in many different situations, and we can attempt to emulate his actions in our own life. Second, when we don't feel like showing love towards others, we can pray to have greater love for them. Third, we need to learn how to love ourselves. This means that we need to understand how we are children of our Heavenly Father. One of my favorite parts in my calling as secretary in the Young Women's Presidency is reciting our motto every week. It starts out in this way, "We are daughters of our Heavenly Father who loves us and we love Him. We will stand as witnesses of God, at all times, and in all things, and in all places..." Each week, I am impressed upon by how simple, yet extremely complex it is that I am a daughter of God, and that I have such divine potential. Fourth, we need to keep ourselves humble, and not view ourselves as superior. Just because we may be in a different situation in our life, does not mean that we are better off than another person. In a way of acting with empathy towards others, Joseph Smith said, "The nearer we get to our heavenly Father, the more we are disposed to look with compassion on perishing souls; we feel that we want to take them upon our shoulders, and cast their sins behind our backs" (Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 428-29).

We need to come humbly to God, confess of our sins and our difficulties, and ask Him to make us better. Then, we need to show our love towards others in the manner that God showed His love towards us. When we help others, lift them up, and are able to bear in one another's burdens, we become more like Christ. The world can be changed in this manner, if we put forth the effort and try.

Some very charitable missionaries that I know: Elders Meier, Beames, Crabbe, and Anderson. I get blessed by their efforts very frequently in my life. I am honored to consider them my friends.

On Prayer and Personal Revelation

I'm baaack! I was gone for a period of time because I just started my second year of medical school at LECOM, and it took a while for me to get back in the swing of things. I'm about to start my 5th week of classes with my 4th Digestive exam on Tuesday, so things have been quite hectic. The beauty of not studying on Sundays, and keeping the Sabbath day holy, among other things, is that I have the time to catch up with my family, friends, and blog. Hence why I am able to blog tonight.

I decided to catch up tonight with the missionaries who are serving where I am from (New Hampshire), and they suggested that I blog on prayer and personal revelation. Here goes!

Prior to joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I understood that I needed to pray, but I never really knew why. I mean, I wanted to have a personal relationship with Christ and God, but they were some unattainable Beings for which I could not really speak to, in my mind at least. When I first started investigating the Church, my good friend Rob gave me a copy of the Book of Mormon and told me to read and pray about it every day. Now, the reading part I was definitely used to. I have read the Bible through cover to cover countless times. However, praying every day was very new and foreign to me.

I remember reading a passage of the Book of Mormon, thinking about it, and then straight up asking God about it. I was just amazed at how well the Bible and the Book of Mormon meshed together. I would look up the footnotes for the various passages, and they continued to clarify and strengthen my understanding of the Restored Gospel. I was praying daily, sometimes even twice a day. I only wanted to join this church if I really knew it was true. If I didn't know, then there was no point for me to go through the challenges that would lay ahead. When I would pray to God, I would ask Him to give me a clear answer about what I should do. I prayed this way for weeks.

When I was writing an email to my parents about me joining the church, one of the missionaries who was helping me suggested that I say the next line of, "I know that the Book of Mormon is true". Prior to that, I hadn't really known. But when he said those words, and then I contemplated it for myself, I knew at that moment that this was my answer to my prayers. It wasn't anything spectacular or awe-inspiring like how God talked to prophets in days of old. It was a clarity of mind, a peace, and understanding. It was the Holy Spirit testifying to me the truthfulness of these things.

From then on, I have continued to pray daily, and many times a day. I have received answers to my prayers as well. For example, I would consider doing one thing, and then after thinking through it, if I got peace and calmness, I would precede. If, on the other hand, I got this really bad feeling, a sense of warning and foreboding, I would stop going down that path. Some clear examples of this are me praying that my relationship with my parents would improve, and it really has. We get along so much better now than we did previously. I've prayed for help with school, guidance about things I struggle with, and a myriad of other topics. Whenever I turn to God in prayer, I know that I can be completely open and honest with Him, and that He will answer me. He will let me know of the answer like the way that He presented Himself to the Prophet Elijah by the still small voice (1 Kings 19:11-13).

There are many different ways that Heavenly Father communicates with his children:
Job 33:15-16 through dreams and visions
Matthew 3:17 speaking from heaven as a voice
John 16:13 we will be guided by the Spirit to all truth and will show us the things to come
2 Nephi 32:3 angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost, speaking the words of Christ
Enos 1:10 hear a voice in his mind, directing him to do something
Helaman 5:30 by a small voice that did pierce them to their soul
D&C 1:38 the Word of God is spoken through prophets
D&C 8:2-3 be told in mind and heart by the Holy Spirit
Moses 1:2 speaking to God face-to-face

A great quote from Spencer W. Kimball, "Let us seek to read and understand and apply the principles and inspired counsel found within the scriptures. If we do so, we shall discover that our personal acts of righteousness will also bring personal revelation or inspiration when needed in our own lives."

To be able to receive personal revelation, or a direct answer to a question, we do need to be living a certain way. First, we need to be following the commandments. We need to be doing what is right, reading Scriptures and praying. We need to ask, seek, and knock (Matthew 7:7-8). We need to be spiritually clean before God by repenting of our sins frequently. And just like Alma says in Alma 5:46, "Behold, I say unto you they are made known unto me by the Holy Spirit of God. Behold, I have fasted and prayed many days that I might know these things of myself. And now I do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of revelation which is in me." Alma fasted and prayed to know about the truthfulness of the Church, and God manifested it to him, through the power of the Holy Spirit.

A couple more helpful words of wisdom from Jesus Christ spoken through the Prophet Joseph Smith: Doctrine and Covenants 8:2-3, "Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart. Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation; behold, this is the spirit by which Moses brought the children of Israel through the Red Sea on dry ground." Doctrine and Covenants 9:8, "But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right."

I would like to close by bearing my testimony. I know that Heavenly Father hears and answers our prayers. I know that I can talk to Him about anything, ask His advice, tell Him about my day, and forgive me of my sins. I know that through the restored Priesthood, I have the gift of the Holy Ghost which helps manifest to me the truthfulness of the Gospel, and what paths I should take. I know that the Holy Spirit will always testify of truth, and that through the Holy Ghost, God answers my prayers. I know that we can receive personal revelation to our prayers, if we ask, think through answers, and wait for a confirmation. I say these things in the name of my most perfect Savior, the only Begotten Son of God, Jesus Christ. Amen.

About the need for prophets and modern revelation

If I were to ask people today to name people who are/were prophets, I'm sure I would get answers like: Moses, Isaiah, and some of the other names from the Old Testament of the Bible. Back in Biblical times, prophets acted as a mouthpiece of God. In the Bible Dictionary about prophets, we read, "The work of a Hebrew prophet was to act as God's messenger and make known God's will...He taught men about God's character, showing the full meaning of his dealings with Israel in the past...It was also the prophet's duty to denounce sins and foretell its punishment, and to redress, as far as he could, both public and private wrongs. He was to be, above all, a preacher of righteousness" (pg 754). And that is exactly what past prophets have done: they told the Israelites direct messages from God, warned them about various cursings that would come if the people continued to sin, and blessings for following God's way. When the people would follow God, as directed through the prophets, they were blessed. However, as we can read time after time in the Old Testament, the people tended to stop trusting the prophets, preferred to do things their own way, and would start sinning. Then the Israelites would be punished, sometimes by different kings taking over the population. One thing that always remained the same is that whenever the people realized they were sinning, and repented, and turned back to God, God would call another prophet to lead them on the righteous path. Each time a major prophet was called in that period, it is known as a dispensation. Whenever the people fell away from God, it is known as an apostasy.

When Jesus Christ was born, He was born in a very special and unique way. He was born of a virgin, who was betrothed to a carpenter. He was born in a manger, because there were no other rooms available for his parents to stay in. On the night of His birth, a new star shone brightly in the sky. Many things dealing with Christ, from His birth, through His ministry, death, and resurrection fulfilled prophecies that were told of old. Jesus also was a prophet. He talked to people about things that God wanted them to know. Obviously, He was much more than just a prophet, He was the Son of God, sent to earth to become Saviour of the world. During Jesus' earthly ministry, He set up His Church. He selected apostles, taught them divine truths, healed the sick, and performed other miracles. After Christ returned to heaven, his apostles were eventually killed off or died. Then, the earth entered into a period known as the Great Apostasy. Many churches were created, all of which tried to take things they had learned from the Bible, and make them a reality. Unfortunately, none of them had the entire picture. An illustration to demonstrate this can be done using a mirror. Christ's original Church is that mirror. After He returned to heaven, and all the original disciples died or were killed, the mirror fell and was shattered. Different churches took different pieces of the mirror and tried to put it back together, to recreate what was originally in place. But they still have many differences. (Look at baptism, for example. One church practices that infants must be baptized via sprinkling, another teaches that people should be baptized by immersion, and some practice that baptism is not necessary for salvation, but rather a way to show a desire to follow Christ, and is therefore optional. These can't all be right.) That would lead me to think that if the type of church was on the earth today that was like Christ's original church, that said church would be the same, and all churches would be the same.

This is the same thought that a young boy had. His name was Joseph Smith, and he was the first prophet of this dispensation. He was brought up in a religious family, and went with his parents to different churches. He was earnestly seeking the right church, the true church, because all the churches were teaching different messages. The church should be teaching the same message, like as it says in Ephesians 4:5, "One Lord, one faith, one baptism." While Joseph Smith was pondering the different churches, he found a verse from in James that reads, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given to him" (James 1:5). Joseph Smith decided to do exactly that: he would pray to God and ask Him which church he should join. He went out to a grove of trees, and began to pray to God. Then, a most miraculous thing happened. In Joseph Smith's own words, "I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me...when the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name, and said, pointing to the other-This is my Beloved Son, Hear Him!" (JSH 1:16-17). Joseph Smith was told that he was going to become a prophet, and that he would restore Christ's original church on the earth. And that's what he did. Joseph Smith became the first in a line of prophets that have been called of God. In Amos 3:7, "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets". Joseph Smith called Apostles, restored the priesthood (to be covered in another blog post), reinstated the sacrament, and other things that were in Christ's original church.

My guess is that many people would disagree that there is a prophet on the earth today. However, we read in Hebrews 13:8, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever." If Christ is the same, and if Christ's ministry is to be continued on the earth today, it logically makes sense that God would still reveal important truths to us through prophets. I think that it is wonderful that we still have a prophet on the earth today. Having a prophet shows that God still loves us very dearly, and wants to guide us as best as He can through a worthy man that He has called. This means that we aren't left alone with only our scriptures (which are very wonderful and full of truth, but hard to interpret at times), but also with someone who speaks on behalf of God. I know that we have a prophet on the earth today. His name is Thomas S. Monson, and he is the head of the Church. I know that the words that he speaks truly are inspired and full of all richness and truth. I know that the Holy Spirit has testified to me the truthfulness of what he speaks, and that I can still learn and grow under the guidance of a prophet. I know that prophets are still needed in this earth today, when so many things of morality are being changed, and people are having a hard time connecting to the Savior. Look to the Prophet; he will guide you back to Christ.

Outside of the Manhattan NY Temple

Word of Wisdom

There are many differences between Latter Day Saints and other Christians. One of them is our belief in something called the "Word of Wisdom". The Word of Wisdom is, in a sense, our health code, explaining what is helpful and harmful for the body. This was given to the Prophet Joseph Smith in a revelation back in 1833. He had been contemplating the use of tobacco during there meetings, so he prayed to God to find out what should be done about it. Doctrine and Covenants Section 89 is the result of the answer to his prayer.

The Lord promised us, that if we follow this Word of wisdom that we will, "...receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures; And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint" (D&C 89:18-20). What this tells us, is if we follow God's commandments (like how Daniel followed the health code when he was subject to King Nebechadnezzar) we we be blessed. What particularly is written in this Word of Wisdom? Why does it matter?

Specifically, we have been warned not to partake of: alcoholic drinks, tobacco products, tea (non-herbal), and coffee. First off, most of these items are very addictive in nature. I can't express how many people I know that suffer headaches or other withdrawal symptoms if they don't take their morning cup of coffee. It is not good to be addicted to any substance. Being addicted to something takes away our agency (agency is the ability to choose for ourselves, like free will). When a person partakes of alcohol, their judgment gets clouded, and they may do things that they would not have originally done if they were sober, thus their agency has been impaired. Also, the items listed are not very healthy, and have some damaging affects to the body. The easier ones to see are alcohol on the liver, and tobacco on the lungs and mouth. Other things that also fall into this category are the taking of illegal drugs and abusing prescription drugs. Both of these can be very addictive, and have bad effects on neurotransmitter release and the post synaptic terminal.

On the plus side, things that are good for the body are: vegetables, fruits, grains, and meat. Again, all of these things should be used sparingly. The Lord is trying to teach us moderation, and not to be consumed with anything. It would be just as bad to be a glutton over food as it would be to smoke cigarettes. Both are harmful to the body. Now, I realize that nobody is perfect, but this is what we are striving for. To live the Word of Wisdom, to not partake of what the Lord has asked us not to do, and to eat other things in moderation. 

I know that I have been blessed in this regard. Before joining the Church, I used to drink on occasion. I never really got into the hang of it, but I slightly enjoyed having my inhibitions loosened. However, when I would look back at what I had done while I was drinking, I was not proud of the actions I had taken. I did not like that drinking had changed my mindset, and had let my moral compass slide on standards that I had held sacred. While I was drinking, I could not choose for myself what I wanted to do. My mind was clouded, and I was easily swayed. Without alcohol, I can fully weigh both the positives and negatives of a decision, and make a prayerful choice. I have been healthier since I decided to follow the Lord's standard, and I have been blessed.

Please don't get me wrong, many of my friends and family members partake of some of these substances, and I am not judging you. I believe that people need to make this decision for themselves, and to pray about it. I will never stop loving or caring for a person if they decide to partake of the substances that I abstain from. (It reminds me of something that Paul wrote about in one of his letters, dealing with, "if someone needs to abstain from meat, that is fine, but you don't need to, if you don't believe it is necessary). It is something that someone who I hold in authority has asked members of the Church to follow, and since I am in that Church, I will continue to follow it. I believe that it can benefit the lives of others.

Best shirt ever, and definitely true of me :)

Lessons learned from the Hill Cumorah Pageant

Let me start off by saying that the Hill Cumorah Pageant was truly amazing! I know that the word "amazing" gets over used a lot, but in all reality, the Pageant was full of so much Spirit and wonder.

I drove to the Pageant with my YSA group, and we marked off some chairs. I had the great opportunity of meeting up with some friends who were in the Pageant: Tiffany Clarkstone and Garrett Hawkins. The size of the stage for the Pageant is so immense, and all the costume actors know all their parts spectacularly well. It was so unreal to be in an atmosphere where so many people believed the same thing were gathered together. I have gotten a lot of slack over the months for the decision that I have made, in joining this church, and it was great to be around people who have also understood the truth.

Since we got to Pageant wicked early, we did a little bit of sight seeing in the area. We were able to go to the bookstore, where the first copies of the Book of Mormon were published. Outside of the bookstore, I saw my first set of protesters. It really saddened me to see them. They do not understand the awesome message that the Book of Mormon gives, and how everything in it, the prophets and all, sincerely point to Christ. I mean, Christ told his disciples in the New Testament that He has other sheep to visit that they know not of. These other sheep definitely included the people who lived previously in the Americas. It was really interesting learning of how the book got published and all the steps that it took.

Fast forward to the evening: from 7 to 9pm the cast came out and shared the message of Truth and Restoration to those in the audience. It was very humbling to have the actors who would portray Nephi (from 1 Nephi) and Alma come to my group and share a message with me. They challenged me to think of a name of a person who could benefit from the message of the Restored Gospel, and I actually came up with one! Being surrounded by so many LDS people (700 in the cast, and many thousands watching that evening), gave me a snippet of what Heaven will be like. The Spirit was so strong there. I have experienced spiritual moments before, even before joining the Church. However, this was one of the times where the Spirit was so palpable for such an extended period of time. It gives a better understanding of how the Holy Ghost witnesses of the truth in all things, and the Holy Ghost was so evidently witnessing of all the truth that was being portrayed. It was like basking in a glorious light, with a perpetual sense of peace and calmness. So amazing, so inspiring!

The Pageant itself tells 10 stories from the Bible and the Book of Mormon. The  first scene deals with the Prophet Lehi, and his warning the people in Jerusalem to turn from their sins and repent, or Jerusalem would be destroyed. The people reject him, and Lehi takes his family from that area.

The people in Jerusalem

The second scene deals with the visions of Jesus Christ. Lehi and Nephi (his son) get visions from God dealing with Jesus Christ, and what will happen to the Savior of the world.

Lehi's vision of the tree.

Nephi's vision of the birth of Jesus.

Nephi's vision with Jesus getting baptized.

Nephi's vision with Jesus ordaining his 12 Apostles.

The third scene deals with Nephi and others building a ship that will be sailed to travel to the Americas. The Lord directs him to do so, and Nephi gets some persecution from his brothers, Laman and Lemuel, in the process.

Nephi building the ship.

Nephi tells his brothers to touch him not or they will become like unto a dried reed.

Scene four is the voyage to ancient America. Lehi's family begin sinning, and Nephi tries to correct them. Laman and Lemuel with some others don't like this, and they tie him to the mast of the ship. A terrible storm occurs, and it is only through repentance to God that they are saved. Once in the Americas, Nephi begins to write of his history on golden plates, that will be passed down through the generations. After a while, a fraction occurs, and those that follow God through Nephi are called the Nephites, and those that ignore God are called the Lamanites.

The families on the ship to the Americas.

Nephi recording the history on the plates.

The Nephites (bottom) and Lamanites (top) did battle much.

Fifth scene deals with the burning of Abinadi. Many hundred years have passed, and the Nephites have become wicked. Abinadi, a prophet, preaches repentance and faith in Jesus Christ who is to come. The people don't believe him, and the evil King Noah have him burned. Alma does believe the prophet, and leaves the service of the king to follow after God.

Abindai preaching faith in Christ alone.

Abinadi's death.

Alma preaching.

Scene six deals with Alma's ministry in the wilderness. He teaches the people the correct doctrine, baptizes people. King Noah gets captured and is burned alive, as Abinadi had prophesied.

Alma baptizing.

King Noah burned alive.

Scene seven deals with the prophecy by Samuel, a righteous Lamanite, about the birth and death of Jesus Christ, and various signs that will be present during that time in the Americas. When Christ is born, there will be no darkness, and when Christ dies, there will be great destruction followed by 3 days of darkness. People don't believe the signs, and about 5 years later, the night sky is lit up by a new star.

Samuel, having things thrown at him, while he prophesies on a wall.

The eighth scene deals with Christ's crucifixion, the darkness that overshadows the land in the Americas for 3 days, and then Christ's ministry among the Nephites and Lamanites. After Christ ministers, organizes His Church, ordains Apostles, heals the sick, and many other miracles, He ascends back to His Father in Heaven.

Christ's condescension to the ancient Americans.

Christ ordaining His Apostles.

Christ with the little children.

The ninth scene deals with how the Nephites and Lamanites split once more after many years of peace. Most people reject the message of Jesus Christ. The prophet Mormon writes some of the history onto golden plates and gives them to his son, Moroni. Moroni then deposits the plates in a stone box at the Hill Cumorah.

Moroni receiving the plates from Mormon.

Moroni with the golden plates.

The tenth and final scene deals with the restoration of the Church. In September 1823, near Palmyra, NY, a young man named Joseph Smith prays in a grove of trees about what church to join. He is told not to join any, in a vision where he sees Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Four years later, Joseph Smith receives the plates from the Hill Cumorah as directed by the angel Moroni. Joseph Smith translates the plates, and publishes it as the Book of Mormon. Now the Book of Mormon goes forth throughout the world.

Joseph Smith receiving the golden plates.

Joseph Smith with a copy of the printed Book of Mormon.

I learned a lot out in Palmyra. I learned that I am part of a larger group of believers than I thought possible, and that I can get strength from knowing the truth of it all. I learned that the Spirit definitely manifests the truth of all things taught, and that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. I learned that nobody can change my mind on that fact, and that I am even more convinced of its truthfulness day by day. And that we should share this message with all those around us. Go to Palmyra, if you get a chance, you will definitely be blessed!

About God and Jesus Christ

It is sad to me when I hear other Christians call Mormons not Christians, or hear that we "worship another god". The reasoning behind this viewpoint is our view of the Godhead. In most Christian churches, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are seen as one, a trinity. Although, there are numerous times in the Bible when the Beings are referred to separately, that is still the prevailing belief. Under the heading of LDS, we believe that they are separate Heavenly Beings, but one in purpose, hence the term Godhead. There was an excellent talk given in the April 2013 General Conference by Elder Christoffel Golden Jr. of the Seventy that I will refer to heavily in this blog post. His talk was entitled, "The Father and the Son" (pgs 99-101 of the May 2013 edition of the Ensign).

'The importance of this most fundamental principle [correct understanding of the Father and the Son] of the gospel of Jesus Christ is confirmed by the First Vision of the Prophet Joseph Smith in 1820. The Prophet wrote: "I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other--This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!"'

As can be seen by this first point made by Elder Golden, the young Prophet Joseph Smith saw Jesus Christ and God the Father as two separate Beings. Okay, well, some people may not believe in this first part, because it is the basis for the LDS church, and is highly controversial. How about a look into the Bible then, because all Christians believe in that.

'In the New Testament, for example, we read of Stephen's final testimony at his martyrdom. Said he, "Behold, I see the heaven opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God." (Acts 7:56)' Now, how could the Son of God [Christ] stand on the right hand of God, if they were both the same Being? Continuing in Elder Golden's talk, 'While in mighty vision on the Isle of Patmos, the Apostle John sees the "Lord God Almighty" (Revelation 4:8) as well as the Lamb of God, who "redeemed us...by [His] blood" (Revelation 5:9).' There are many other examples as well, take the baptism of Jesus Christ in Matthew 3, where all three personages of the Godhead appear at the same time (God=voice from Heaven, Jesus Christ=physically in the water, and Spirit=descending in the form of a dove); when Christ is transfigured in front of his disciples, Peter gets a little concerned, offers to build a shelter, and then God speaks directly to them (Matthew 17:5). Plus, there is also the creation account in Genesis 1 which has God making mankind (verse 26), "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness..." This again refers to more than one Being for which mankind is being made.

Jesus and God work together. The way that they are able to go about this, causes a oneness of mind, a oneness of spirit. Referring back to Elder Golden, 'Every time our Lord refers to His Heavenly Father, He does so with the utmost reverence and submissiveness. In saying this, I hope there will be no misunderstanding. Jesus Christ is the great Jehovah, the God of Israel, the promised Messiah, and because of his infinite Atonement, he is our Savior and the Redeemer of the world. Of Him the Apostle Paul declared, "Then cometh the end, when [Christ] shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when [Christ] shall have put down all rule and all authority and power" (1 Corinthians 15:24).' Paul is suggesting that at the end of time, Christ will give up His kingdom back to God, meaning that Christ was ruling it for a while, and then, like a faithful son would, returned it back to his loving Father.

True, there are also references in the Bible to Christ and God sharing a oneness, like in John 17:20-22, which reads, "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one." This oneness, that the Apostles are told to be imitating, is a oneness of purpose. Christ mentioned the relationship of himself to His Father, and their oneness in purpose, in Spirit, and in Truth, but separate in personal existence.

Elder Golden has a good way of explaining it, 'The Father and the Son are distinctly separate beings, but They are perfectly united and one in power and purpose. Their oneness is not reserved for Them alone; rather, They desire this same oneness for everyone who will, with devotion, follow and obey Their commandments.' We get this oneness with God and His Son through the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost witnesses to the truth of all things, is a comforter, and witnesses of Christ, among other wonderful things.

So, what is the purpose of all of this? Why does it matter? Other than me just trying to fully assert that I am still a Christian. Because, having the Godhead as three separate Beings, means so much more to me than having one Being who changes form when it seems appropriate. This makes my whole relationship with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Spirit much more personal. I know that I have a Father in Heaven, and also a perfect older Brother. This falls in line with God's continual focus on the family unit. Knowing that Christ atoned for my sins, because His Father asked Him to, and therefore I should do whatever it is that my Father asks me to. The road may not always be easy, and I cannot always see the end that God sees,  but I know that if I continue to follow God, as best as I can, that I will be blessed. 

I bear my testimony that I know that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are separate individuals, and that my life has been, and will be continually blessed as I seek to follow Them. It is important to seek the truth, and to have the Holy Ghost bear witness to all things that point to Christ, and to the truth in other areas of life. Only by seeking the truth, have I come to this realization. My God is a very real, very personal, Father in Heaven, who cared enough to send His only Begotten Son to atone for all the sins of the world. I end this blog post, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.