Dear Elder Williams,
We went up to Honor Choir and saw Raina perform at Abravanel Hall on Saturday. It was so beautiful to hear the voices of such talented young people. Music has a way to communicate directly to the soul. It was such a wonderful concert. I'm glad you had the opportunity to participate in events like that also.
I finished a book called 25 Books that Shaped America by Thomas Foster. It was interesting to read his choices and why he picked them. Many of them are modern and post-modern meaning the authors view on life is pessimistic (in my opinion). The philosophy which has shaped the past two centuries is basically bleak ---"there is only atoms and the void". It's not a modern philosophy of course because that idea goes back to the Greeks Democritus and Leucippus. But it is certainly not a philosophy of hope. I guess it's pragmatic, but to me it's barren. I'm reminded of Shakespeare when MacBeth is lamenting the purpose of life:
"...the way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle!
Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage
And then is heard no more. It is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing."
How depressing! I'm grateful that we have the Plan of Salvation and the knowledge that there is a grand design and purpose to our life. Salvation is easy if you think about it: repent, obey, believe, submit, do good, and love. But it's so difficult! We are 'half-hearted' creatures who worry about insignificant things that rust and decay. I know if I could just focus then my outlook wouldn't be obscured by seeing through the glass darkly. My perspective would be clear and full of promise if I would just abstain from sin. But I'm weak and irresolute. Enough of the "Lament of Laura." I just need to put my trust in Jesus and replace faith with the fear I have.
I've been watching a great BBC production of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. I LOVE IT. I love the book because it's so symbolic and full of wisdom. I love the hyper-neurosis of Miss Havashim and how she contrasts with Joe who is "the salt of the earth" type of character. Anyways, I'm glad for entertainment that isn't just vapid and vulgar. You'll have to look up the BBC productions when you get back.
Guess what? I've been running again. Maybe we can do a 5K in the summer. It could be a fun family event. :)
I can't believe how time is running down with your time out on your mission. It just speeds by! It makes me realize that I need to make each day count.
I've got a package together and will send it out today. I hope you are feeling ok and won't get a cold.
We send our prayers, love, and blessings to you. Thank you for spreading the 'good news' of the gospel.
With love,
Mom
Dear Mom.
I am glad that you got to watch Raina preform. I am sure it was great. I loved singing with all of the other kids.
The book you just finished sounds like it was an interesting read. Was one of the books the Book of Mormon? If not, it should be on that list. It has done more to change this world than any other book besides the Bible, I think.
There is such a stark contrast between the pessimistic world and the hopeful gospel. I am so grateful that the truth is bright and meaningful. Nothing would be worth anything without it.
Keep remembering the lovingkindness of God. I have been reading Psalms a bit, and that is a word that keeps ringing out to me. I know that the Atonement covers our faults and strengthens our weaknesses. You truly are an elect lady, Mom.
I am glad that you have been running! You will probably be able to beat me.
Time is going by quick. Makes my work here more urgent. I am going to miss the mantle of a missionary so much. I feel like my mission is a little microcosm of life. Every day needs to count.
Thank you for the package. I didn't get a chance to send my stuff home. I will do that today.
This week was pretty eventful. I have had many opportunities to give blessings. That has been one of the best things of my mission, is the opportunity to exercise my priesthood so much. We gave Jane a blessing for her addiction to tobacco, and it was an amazing experience. She said that she could feel Satan leaving her. We also gave a blessing to our investigator Wilfried. He has been taught a lot by missionaries in the past, and the thing that kept him from baptism was his smoking habit. I sealed the anointing, and the words that came out of my mouth astounded me. It never ceases to amaze me what kinds of things the Lord channels through me to the individuals I lay my hands upon. I feel like some of the words were for me.
Thank you for all of your support and love.
Love,
Elder Williams
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
January 21, 2014
Dear Elder TT,
The theme for YM/YW this year is 'Come unto Christ and be perfected in him and deny yourselves of all ungodliness'. I love the distinction between the expectation of "being perfect" and "being perfected". I'm so grateful that we don't have to do it on our own - be perfect- because obviously we can't. But we can be 'perfected' in Jesus. It is through him and his grace that we have this hope. I've also been thinking about denying myself of ungodliness. There is so much distraction and a myriad of voices screaming for our attention that it's really easy to forget who we are and whose we are.
Dad and I went to the temple on Saturday and did a bunch of sealing's. I was thinking of the couples and wondering how long they had to wait to be with their beloved again. I bet they were so happy to have this ordinance done and think of what a joyful reunion it was. We also got to witness some people sealing their great-grandparents. The names were from Slovenia. What an amazing experience to do the work of salvation for your ancestors.
I have a favorite minister I listen to on the Christian Radio station named Ravi Zacharias. He has a brilliant mind and wonderful spirit. He truly is a man of God who loves Jesus Christ. Anyways, he spoke at BYU and the Mormon Tabernacle on Friday and Saturday. I wish I could have gone up to see him, but I listened to the live stream. He is an inspiring speaker, apologist, and philosopher. He spoke on the need to protect religious freedom and how important faith is to our country. We have theological differences, but I still believe we can build bridges with friends of all faiths if we are willing to listen, understand, and be Christ-like. Elder Holland opened with a greeting and spoke of evangelicals and Mormons as friends who love and serve Jesus Christ. Elder Holland buoys up my faith and testimony. I'm so grateful for our apostles and the men who lead our church.
I've been listening to the scriptures and I think one of my favorite books in the whole wide world is Enos. It is short, but so powerful. The message of repentance, faith, and trust really touched me lately. And the love he had for the Lamanites, his foe and enemy, was remarkable. I wish I could have that kind of love.
How is your work going? I hope your people are feeling the impressions of the Holy Ghost. I hope you are doing well. Let me know if I can send you anything or help you in anyway. I love you.
With love,
Mom
Dear Mom,
I love the new theme. I'm glad that the youth have such a good curriculum. You are lucky that you get to teach from it. You are helping a lot of kids prepare for missions and marriages.
It is true, being perfected means we are still in the process. Seeing that God is patient with us helps me be patient with myself and others. It helps me to forgive myself if I make a mistake, and accept the peace that comes from the Atonement. One of my favorite quotes from Elder Nelson is,"Men are that they might have joy, not guilt trips!". I've grown a lot from that understanding. I've been able to progress faster because I am not holding myself back.
Recently I have been feeling more power. 2 Timothy 1:7-8 has become my vision for the rest of my mission. President Hinckley advised us to hang that up where we can see it every day. I'll challenge you to do that. :)
I get to go to the temple this transfer, I'm not sure when. One thing I'd like to do is take a name through the temple and do their endowment. You said you had some, right? I'm excited to do more family history work with my contacts and investigators.
I have always admired how much you and dad go to the temple. That's a goal I want in my life too.
Ravi Zacharias sounds like a good teacher. Does he have a Jewish background? I've learned a lot about relating to people on the positive aspects of their religion. It opens people up a lot more.
I love Enos too. It is really insightful to see how he plead for his salvation, then his bretheren's, then his enemy's. I feel like that is what the evolution of charity looks like, the process of turning outward. I think you do have that love.
The work is going well. We have been finding more people to teach. I told you a bit about Misty and Jane. They are looking forward to coming to church, and we continue to have powerful lessons with them. We taught them about the Book of Mormon, and they are really excited to read.
We found a good fellowshiper for Elizabeth. We have been working on getting Elizabeth to church, and it has been hard because of her health problems. We took a lady named Sister BJ to a lesson, and they really hit it off. Sister BJ is a recent convert and a retired nurse, so it was a perfect match.
I've also been finding a lot of success working with members in other countries to find people to teach online. I've been working in eastern Europe a lot, mostly in Poland.
Thank you for your prayers for my people. I know it makes a difference.
One thing that would be nice is some more garlic capsules and eccinacia. The Elders in my apartment have been getting sick. I've been doing well, but I think it would be good to fortify myself a bit.
I'm sending a package home with some stuff that I don't use and a couple of things that member have given me.
How has everything been going for your online school? Did you get a good group of students?
Love you,
Elder Williams
Monday, January 13, 2014
January 13
Elder Williams,
I hope your week was filled with happiness. How are things with the investigators you are working with? We pray for you and them and send our love.
In Sunday School, the lesson was about the Plan of Salvation. I had a lot of thoughts go through my mind. One of them was concerning agency. I believe that Lucifer's plan was to make the world a place where everything is relative. For example: there is no right or wrong, good or bad, true or false. Doesn't sound like the philosophy of today? "My truth is my truth and your truth is your truth. Don't judge me by your standard." We each make ourselves our own god through the worship of individualism. In the scriptures, Lucifer talks about how we can be like gods---and how is that? By knowing good from evil, virtue from vice, pleasure from pain. By opposition we come to know and our eyes are opened. Satan's plan is for there to be no immutable truth, no absolutes, no law. Therefore there would be no need for punishment because there is no foundation or standard to judge by. Satan knows that agency is an intrinsic part of existence and ultimately we are sovereign beings. He has and does employ tactics of fear, intimidation, coercion, torture, etc....but within the deepest chambers of our soul, we do remain free to choose. Therefore, his plan is to abolish law and consequences. That is exactly what is going on in our society today. Everything is relative. There is no foundation of truth and society is forever shifting--or evolving as some would say. It goes back to dialectics.
Anyways....another thought I had was regarding Jesus and his declarations of Thy will be done and glory be to the Father. We each need to ask ourselves these same questions. Are we willing to submit to the Fathers will or is it MY WILL BE DONE. Think of "The Secret" and books like that. It's all about YOU controlling your destiny and YOU being the captain of your ship. Just like Nietzsche advocated; it's the will to power that determines those who rise and those who don't...the "Over-man/Superman" is the creator god because he shapes reality into his own image. And who is given the glory? Certainly not deity. It's self and the person who has the "will to power." On a smaller scale, who do we give glory to for the good things in our life, like our house, car, facial features, muscles, knowledge, college degree, etc.? Ourselves. Think of all the self-worship that exists--- striving for money, power and the desire to become immortal through fame. Even "selfies" on Facebook proclaim how much we love ourselves. "Look at me." "See how beautiful I am." "Check out my wonderfulness." It's all about pride. That's how the son of the morning fell....pride. I'm so guilty of this sin. I have a lot of work to do.
Well, as you can see, I've been thinking about this a lot and know I have some serious things improve upon. I really do think we should keep these thoughts in our mind:
"Thy will be done"
"Glory be to Thee"
and it could help us avoid the pitfalls of pride and trusting in the arm of flesh.
I'm sorry if this is too long or didactic. I'm just thinking out loud and sharing my thoughts with you. Please tell me what you think and your views on life.
God bless you and keep you safe.
With love,
Mom
Dear Mom,
Our people are doing well. We picked up a few more people as new investigators. We were able to pick up a few new investigators this week. Matt and Tasha are hard core Catholic. Very educated in their religion. I have hopes for them though. It was one of the best contacts I have had in this area when we first met them.
We also picked up a lady named Jane. We gave her a card and she called Church Headquarters for a Finding Faith in Christ DVD. she was in a car crash in 2003, and she has some struggles. She loves Jesus a lot, and we have hopes for her.
I really love the things that you wrote. You should consider writing a book. :)
I hope your week was filled with happiness. How are things with the investigators you are working with? We pray for you and them and send our love.
In Sunday School, the lesson was about the Plan of Salvation. I had a lot of thoughts go through my mind. One of them was concerning agency. I believe that Lucifer's plan was to make the world a place where everything is relative. For example: there is no right or wrong, good or bad, true or false. Doesn't sound like the philosophy of today? "My truth is my truth and your truth is your truth. Don't judge me by your standard." We each make ourselves our own god through the worship of individualism. In the scriptures, Lucifer talks about how we can be like gods---and how is that? By knowing good from evil, virtue from vice, pleasure from pain. By opposition we come to know and our eyes are opened. Satan's plan is for there to be no immutable truth, no absolutes, no law. Therefore there would be no need for punishment because there is no foundation or standard to judge by. Satan knows that agency is an intrinsic part of existence and ultimately we are sovereign beings. He has and does employ tactics of fear, intimidation, coercion, torture, etc....but within the deepest chambers of our soul, we do remain free to choose. Therefore, his plan is to abolish law and consequences. That is exactly what is going on in our society today. Everything is relative. There is no foundation of truth and society is forever shifting--or evolving as some would say. It goes back to dialectics.
Anyways....another thought I had was regarding Jesus and his declarations of Thy will be done and glory be to the Father. We each need to ask ourselves these same questions. Are we willing to submit to the Fathers will or is it MY WILL BE DONE. Think of "The Secret" and books like that. It's all about YOU controlling your destiny and YOU being the captain of your ship. Just like Nietzsche advocated; it's the will to power that determines those who rise and those who don't...the "Over-man/Superman" is the creator god because he shapes reality into his own image. And who is given the glory? Certainly not deity. It's self and the person who has the "will to power." On a smaller scale, who do we give glory to for the good things in our life, like our house, car, facial features, muscles, knowledge, college degree, etc.? Ourselves. Think of all the self-worship that exists--- striving for money, power and the desire to become immortal through fame. Even "selfies" on Facebook proclaim how much we love ourselves. "Look at me." "See how beautiful I am." "Check out my wonderfulness." It's all about pride. That's how the son of the morning fell....pride. I'm so guilty of this sin. I have a lot of work to do.
Well, as you can see, I've been thinking about this a lot and know I have some serious things improve upon. I really do think we should keep these thoughts in our mind:
"Thy will be done"
"Glory be to Thee"
and it could help us avoid the pitfalls of pride and trusting in the arm of flesh.
I'm sorry if this is too long or didactic. I'm just thinking out loud and sharing my thoughts with you. Please tell me what you think and your views on life.
God bless you and keep you safe.
With love,
Mom
Dear Mom,
Our people are doing well. We picked up a few more people as new investigators. We were able to pick up a few new investigators this week. Matt and Tasha are hard core Catholic. Very educated in their religion. I have hopes for them though. It was one of the best contacts I have had in this area when we first met them.
We also picked up a lady named Jane. We gave her a card and she called Church Headquarters for a Finding Faith in Christ DVD. she was in a car crash in 2003, and she has some struggles. She loves Jesus a lot, and we have hopes for her.
Thank you for praying for Tom, Lydia, and Ruth too.
I've been teaching a girl named Mitchie in Germany over Facebook and Skype. She is really great, she has had some awesome experiences with prayer. The Spirit bore powerful witness to her. She is facing a lot of opposition though. Most of her family and friends don't believe in God.
I really love the things that you wrote. You should consider writing a book. :)
Actually today the missionaries that I live with and I were discussing that. An Elder asked me, "So what makes murder wrong? The law?". I had to think about it for a bit, but I was able to say yes. It is wrong not because of man's law, but because of the unchanging laws that God has set. Otherwise, everything would decay into a relative morass. It would be horrible.
I have talked to so many people who think that things are relative, and they aren't happy. Happiness comes from living and obeying the higher law. Nothing else is worth it.
We sang hymn 240 in Sacrament. A phrase in it really hit me. "Freedom and reason make us men; take these away, what are we then?". I know we are more than mere animals. I have a testimony of the Father. He is our Father. We are to be like him. My purpose as a missionary is to help people awake to this reality. This purpose has made such an impression on my soul that it will forever be my purpose in my life. I will help all I can, especially my family.
I love you Mom. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me.
Love,
Elder Williams
Monday, January 6, 2014
Jan 6
Hey Elder TT,
Things have started off with a bang this New Year. We had a wild party and brought in 2014 with festivities galore. Not really. We watched a movie and had a treat. :) BUT, we did our annual New Years Day hike and it was spectacular because of the weather, blue skies and red rocks. Capitol Reef is lovely this time of year.
I was thinking yesterday about testimony and the words we use to express it. Generally people start off with, "I'd like to bear my testimony....". I've heard little children say, "I'd like to bury my testimony." I'm afraid I'm guilty of that...I bury my testimony and don't express it enough. I was also thinking of the word "bear". It made me think of the word "bare". When we express our testimony, it is a sort of exposure to our soul. We show the world or the ward how we feel about Christ and it is a touching and humbling experience. To bare or reveal one's feelings and thoughts takes courage because those things are close to our heart and sacred. I'm sure that's why many tears are shed....because the spirit is overflowing with communion with God. To bear also means to press down...like to bear down on a heavy load. This made me think of how our testimony meetings can lighten one another's burden through the expression of inspiration. Perhaps bearing your testimony pushes it deep down into your own soul also.
I hope you are happy and well. I'm grateful that you have the opportunity to bear your testimony often.
God be with you 'til we meet again.
With love,
Mom
Dear Mom,
I'm glad that the New Year started off well for you.
I love what you said about bear vs bare. I have thought about it it before too. When I think of bear, I think of bearing a standard. I know that the Church is true, so it places me under obligation to share it with others, so I show it to the world.
Bearing my testimony has brought me so much joy on my mission. I get to do it on the street, in lessons, in missionary meetings, at dinners with members, and in fast and testimony meeting. I have borne my testimony in every fast and testimony meeting for a long long time now. It has helped me a lot. The Spirit always helps me know what to say.
I've been really grateful for the things I have been learning from the missionaries I have been serving around. We really are a good bunch of buds here.
Love,
Elder Williams
Hi Talon,
Hope your new year is going well for you so far. We are now getting things back to normal after the holidays.
The kids were a bit grumpy about going back to school. Aubree is working hard to get the yearbook put together. I am excited to see how it turns out.
We moved to the 11:00 start time for church yesterday. The kids liked to sleep in. I prefer the earlier time and I dread the 1:00 time. I had Brandt go with me to do the Sacrament to the shut ins. It was kind of nice to share that experience with him.
Brandt had one game last week. We won again and he played very well. He has two games this week. I am hoping to have tryouts for all-stars late this week. All-star games start up the first week in February. My assistant coach is the JV girls coach so I have someone helping me who will be good I think.
Have a great week,
Love Dad
Hey Mom, your question last week got me thinking. Here is the study that I did. My comments are in bold. I hope it ties it together.
Study: Unity and Oneness of the Godhead
3 Nephi 11:27 And after this manner shall ye baptize in my name; for behold, verily I say unto you, that the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost are one; and I am in the Father, and the Father in me, and the Father and I are one.
3 Nephi 11:36 And thus will the Father bear record of me, and the Holy Ghost will bear record unto him of the Father and me; for the Father, and I, and the Holy Ghost are one.
D&C 20:28 Which Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one God, infinite and eternal, without end. Amen.
Alma 11:44 Now, this restoration shall come to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, both the wicked and the righteous; and even there shall not so much as a hair of their heads be lost; but every thing shall be restored to its perfect frame, as it is now, or in the body, and shall be brought and be arraigned before the bar of Christ the Son, and God the Father, and the Holy Spirit, which is one Eternal God, to be judged according to their works, whether they be good or whether they be evil.
Mormon 7:7 And he hath brought to pass the redemption of the world, whereby he that is found guiltless before him at the judgment day hath it given unto him to dwell in the presence of God in his kingdom, to sing ceaseless praises with the choirs above, unto the Father, and unto the Son, and unto the Holy Ghost, which are one God, in a state of happiness which hath no end.
2 Nephi 31:21 And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end. Amen.
3 Nephi 28:10-11 And for this cause ye shall have fulness of joy; and ye shall sit down in the kingdom of my Father; yea, your joy shall be full, even as the Father hath given me fulness of joy; and ye shall be even as I am, and I am even as the Father; and the Father and I are one; And the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and the Father giveth the Holy Ghost unto the children of men, because of me.
Notice how all of these Book of Mormon references about the oneness of God always talks about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. All three members of the Godhead play a part in the Gospel. Without all three of Them the Gospel of Jesus Christ wouldn't be possible.
Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord:
The Bible teaches about the oneness of God, but it doesn't teach it as clearly as the Book of Mormon.
Galatians 3:20 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
John 17:21-23 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: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
We can be unified with Heavenly Father as Jesus is unified with Him. We unite ourselves to God the Father through His Son.
John 17:1 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:
What are They united in? They are united in bringing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to pass; faith in the divine Sonship and Atonement of Jesus Christ, repentance, covenant in through baptism by priesthood authority for the remission of sins, confirmation and sanctification through the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end by repeating the steps of the Gospel. All of these things lead to salvation and exaltation; God's purpose. We become united with the Godhead as we work for our brother's and sister's salvation and exultation and share the Gospel.
Moses 1:39 For behold, this is my work and my glory--to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.
I hope this is useful!
Study: Unity and Oneness of the Godhead
3 Nephi 11:27 And after this manner shall ye baptize in my name; for behold, verily I say unto you, that the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost are one; and I am in the Father, and the Father in me, and the Father and I are one.
3 Nephi 11:36 And thus will the Father bear record of me, and the Holy Ghost will bear record unto him of the Father and me; for the Father, and I, and the Holy Ghost are one.
D&C 20:28 Which Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one God, infinite and eternal, without end. Amen.
Alma 11:44 Now, this restoration shall come to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, both the wicked and the righteous; and even there shall not so much as a hair of their heads be lost; but every thing shall be restored to its perfect frame, as it is now, or in the body, and shall be brought and be arraigned before the bar of Christ the Son, and God the Father, and the Holy Spirit, which is one Eternal God, to be judged according to their works, whether they be good or whether they be evil.
Mormon 7:7 And he hath brought to pass the redemption of the world, whereby he that is found guiltless before him at the judgment day hath it given unto him to dwell in the presence of God in his kingdom, to sing ceaseless praises with the choirs above, unto the Father, and unto the Son, and unto the Holy Ghost, which are one God, in a state of happiness which hath no end.
2 Nephi 31:21 And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end. Amen.
3 Nephi 28:10-11 And for this cause ye shall have fulness of joy; and ye shall sit down in the kingdom of my Father; yea, your joy shall be full, even as the Father hath given me fulness of joy; and ye shall be even as I am, and I am even as the Father; and the Father and I are one; And the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and the Father giveth the Holy Ghost unto the children of men, because of me.
Notice how all of these Book of Mormon references about the oneness of God always talks about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. All three members of the Godhead play a part in the Gospel. Without all three of Them the Gospel of Jesus Christ wouldn't be possible.
Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord:
The Bible teaches about the oneness of God, but it doesn't teach it as clearly as the Book of Mormon.
Galatians 3:20 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
John 17:21-23 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: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
We can be unified with Heavenly Father as Jesus is unified with Him. We unite ourselves to God the Father through His Son.
John 17:1 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:
What are They united in? They are united in bringing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to pass; faith in the divine Sonship and Atonement of Jesus Christ, repentance, covenant in through baptism by priesthood authority for the remission of sins, confirmation and sanctification through the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end by repeating the steps of the Gospel. All of these things lead to salvation and exaltation; God's purpose. We become united with the Godhead as we work for our brother's and sister's salvation and exultation and share the Gospel.
Moses 1:39 For behold, this is my work and my glory--to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.
I hope this is useful!
Love,
Elder Williams
Dec 30
Happy New Year Elder Williams,
Have you set any goals for 2014? Mine is to read the Old Testament. I've never read it before clear through, so I'll give it my best try. I did complete some goals of reading the New Testament and Book of Mormon plus I've been reading D&C. I've had other goals too and it's good to look back and see where I've progressed and where I need to work.
I have a question or two for you, so pretend I'm an investigator.
Christianity is a monotheistic religion and most Christian sects hold to the creed of the Trinity: "There is but one only living and true God, who is infinite in being and perfection, a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions, immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible....etc."
But according to LDS beliefs, we believe in God as Heavenly Father, God as Jesus Christ, and God as Holy Spirit as three separate and distinct personages. Would that make the belief polytheistic? How do you explain that to a Lutheran, Methodist, or Calvinist?
Monotheism was one of the great revolutions in world history that changed the beliefs of people from animism, myths, and magic into a real religion. Jews have always been monotheistic. Zoroastrianism from Persia is considered a genesis of monotheistic thought. Islam was one of the other great monotheistic religions that civilized the much of the Middle East. My point is, isn't monotheism a foundational pillar on which religion stands? How do you explain this difference in views to your investigators? I've just wondered this for a very long time and never have been able to find an answer. If you don't know, it's okay...I'm not grilling you on your gospel knowledge.....it's just a question that I've had for a long time and thought maybe you could help me with some clarification.
It was so nice to visit with you on Christmas Day. You look marvelous. :) I received the ornament you sent, packed it very securely in bubble wrap and tucked it away with the other Christmas decorations. It should be perfect for you when you get home and want to hang it on your tree next year. :)
I have a testimony, but lack a depth of knowledge. I'm working towards truth because I want to rest in surety. I've been to this place before, but have not been diligent lately so I need to strengthen my resolve, focus my vision, and walk the path that leads to peace.
God bless you 'til we meet again,
Mom
Dear Mom,
I do have goals for the New Year. I'm working on them right now, ha ha. I figured that it would be better to start sooner than later. Become more consistent now so that they will carry over into the next year. I'm going to keep running and doing strength training, and I'm going to work on memorizing more scriptures in my studies. I'm about half way through the Old Testament. I've been reading it purring lunch and at night a bit.
I like your question. I would say that we are monotheistic because we believe that God the Father is the origin of all. He created the master plan.
Now, we are polytheistic in the sense that we believe that Christ has achieved the stature of God because He is now exalted. He wasn't at one point, however. He still needed to go through a mortal life. Still, He was Jehovah. He organized the world. We are also polytheistic in the sense that we believe that we can become like God too.
The Book of Mormon explains how they are one. 2 Nephi 31:21 "And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end. Amen."
They are One God because they are on the same team, if you will. They are perfectly unified in the Gospel.
I wish I could give you a better explanation. It is something I've thought about a lot. Most important point, God the Father is the origin of all.
I will pray for you and that lots of people sign up for your classes. You don't need to send me green drink if that will be a burden.
Mom. you are one of the most knowledgeably people I know. You have had many spiritual confirmations in your life, and what I think you are really working on is just trying to figure out how all of these truths fit together. I admire the way you have embraced the goodness around you.
Love,
Elder Williams
Hey Talon,
It was really nice to see and speak to you last week. You look well and happy and are enjoying doing the work.
I've had a lazy week through the Holidays. It's been refreshing for me. I just wish it was warmer. It is so nice having the wood stove. I've had to chop some wood because I'm running out of what I chopped last year. Grandpa Ron was good to help out with fire wood again this year.
You asked if I had companions that needed help. Honestly I think they all needed help but as I think about things, your mission President seems to rely on you to help out Elders who under different circumstances wouldn't be able to serve as completely as they do with you. Perhaps part of your mission is to serve in that capacity. I recently read an article in the Deseret News about the difficulty missionaries have if they have to go home early. They suffer social stigma, depression and an unresolved sense of failure that troubles them for years to come. So I think you should feel good that President Alba senses your ability to work with these young men. It might just have a longer lasting impact on these young men than you realize.
Well Happy New Year,
Love Dad
Dear Pops,
It was good talking to you too. I'm glad that everyone is doing well.
You deserve a lazy week. You work hard even on your off time.
Thank you for sharing that about your experience and that article. Sometimes it has been hard for me because I feel like my companions hold me and the work back, but I've been able to learn how important it is to love and help them. I really do hope I've made a positive impact on my companions.
Thing have been getting better and better. Elder McKay and I are getting on the same page more, and we are seeing it in the work. We have been blessed with more people to teach.
Love,
Elder Williams
Have you set any goals for 2014? Mine is to read the Old Testament. I've never read it before clear through, so I'll give it my best try. I did complete some goals of reading the New Testament and Book of Mormon plus I've been reading D&C. I've had other goals too and it's good to look back and see where I've progressed and where I need to work.
I have a question or two for you, so pretend I'm an investigator.
Christianity is a monotheistic religion and most Christian sects hold to the creed of the Trinity: "There is but one only living and true God, who is infinite in being and perfection, a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions, immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible....etc."
But according to LDS beliefs, we believe in God as Heavenly Father, God as Jesus Christ, and God as Holy Spirit as three separate and distinct personages. Would that make the belief polytheistic? How do you explain that to a Lutheran, Methodist, or Calvinist?
Monotheism was one of the great revolutions in world history that changed the beliefs of people from animism, myths, and magic into a real religion. Jews have always been monotheistic. Zoroastrianism from Persia is considered a genesis of monotheistic thought. Islam was one of the other great monotheistic religions that civilized the much of the Middle East. My point is, isn't monotheism a foundational pillar on which religion stands? How do you explain this difference in views to your investigators? I've just wondered this for a very long time and never have been able to find an answer. If you don't know, it's okay...I'm not grilling you on your gospel knowledge.....it's just a question that I've had for a long time and thought maybe you could help me with some clarification.
It was so nice to visit with you on Christmas Day. You look marvelous. :) I received the ornament you sent, packed it very securely in bubble wrap and tucked it away with the other Christmas decorations. It should be perfect for you when you get home and want to hang it on your tree next year. :)
I have a testimony, but lack a depth of knowledge. I'm working towards truth because I want to rest in surety. I've been to this place before, but have not been diligent lately so I need to strengthen my resolve, focus my vision, and walk the path that leads to peace.
God bless you 'til we meet again,
Mom
Dear Mom,
I do have goals for the New Year. I'm working on them right now, ha ha. I figured that it would be better to start sooner than later. Become more consistent now so that they will carry over into the next year. I'm going to keep running and doing strength training, and I'm going to work on memorizing more scriptures in my studies. I'm about half way through the Old Testament. I've been reading it purring lunch and at night a bit.
I like your question. I would say that we are monotheistic because we believe that God the Father is the origin of all. He created the master plan.
Now, we are polytheistic in the sense that we believe that Christ has achieved the stature of God because He is now exalted. He wasn't at one point, however. He still needed to go through a mortal life. Still, He was Jehovah. He organized the world. We are also polytheistic in the sense that we believe that we can become like God too.
The Book of Mormon explains how they are one. 2 Nephi 31:21 "And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end. Amen."
They are One God because they are on the same team, if you will. They are perfectly unified in the Gospel.
I wish I could give you a better explanation. It is something I've thought about a lot. Most important point, God the Father is the origin of all.
I will pray for you and that lots of people sign up for your classes. You don't need to send me green drink if that will be a burden.
Mom. you are one of the most knowledgeably people I know. You have had many spiritual confirmations in your life, and what I think you are really working on is just trying to figure out how all of these truths fit together. I admire the way you have embraced the goodness around you.
Love,
Elder Williams
Hey Talon,
It was really nice to see and speak to you last week. You look well and happy and are enjoying doing the work.
I've had a lazy week through the Holidays. It's been refreshing for me. I just wish it was warmer. It is so nice having the wood stove. I've had to chop some wood because I'm running out of what I chopped last year. Grandpa Ron was good to help out with fire wood again this year.
You asked if I had companions that needed help. Honestly I think they all needed help but as I think about things, your mission President seems to rely on you to help out Elders who under different circumstances wouldn't be able to serve as completely as they do with you. Perhaps part of your mission is to serve in that capacity. I recently read an article in the Deseret News about the difficulty missionaries have if they have to go home early. They suffer social stigma, depression and an unresolved sense of failure that troubles them for years to come. So I think you should feel good that President Alba senses your ability to work with these young men. It might just have a longer lasting impact on these young men than you realize.
Well Happy New Year,
Love Dad
Dear Pops,
It was good talking to you too. I'm glad that everyone is doing well.
You deserve a lazy week. You work hard even on your off time.
Thank you for sharing that about your experience and that article. Sometimes it has been hard for me because I feel like my companions hold me and the work back, but I've been able to learn how important it is to love and help them. I really do hope I've made a positive impact on my companions.
Thing have been getting better and better. Elder McKay and I are getting on the same page more, and we are seeing it in the work. We have been blessed with more people to teach.
Love,
Elder Williams
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