This week, our Come Follow Me curriculum brings us to D&C 60-62. We discuss opening our mouths, dangerous waters, and exceptions. Study with me!
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Showing posts with label #courage. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #courage. Show all posts
Sunday, May 30, 2021
Sunday, August 9, 2020
Ward Preacher Podcast ep 85 - Don't Judge the Judgmental
This week, our Come Follow Me curriculum brings us to Alma 53-63. We discuss those not under oath, the cause of Ammoron, and Moroni jumping to the wrong conclusion. Study with me!
Anchor.fm:
Soundcloud:
https://soundcloud.com/user-961318159/ward-preacher-podcast-ep-85-dont-judge-the-judgmental
Youtube:
Sunday, October 27, 2019
Ward Preacher Podcast Ep 44 - The Most Controversial of Paul's Teachings
This week, the Come Follow Me curriculum brings us to 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. We look at the spirit of "fear," the roots of evils and perilous times, and the most controversial of Paul's teachings. Study with me!
Soundcloud:
https://soundcloud.com/user-961318159/ward-preacher-podcast-ep-44-the-most-controversial-of-pauls-teachings
Youtube:
Soundcloud:
https://soundcloud.com/user-961318159/ward-preacher-podcast-ep-44-the-most-controversial-of-pauls-teachings
Youtube:
Monday, July 29, 2019
Ward Preacher Podcast Ep 31 - When not to turn the other cheek
This week in the Come Follow Me curriculum, we wrap up the book of Acts. Paul doesn't turn the other cheek, but defends himself, and witnesses of Jesus in all circumstances. Study with me!
SoundCloud:
https://soundcloud.com/user-961318159/ward-preacher-podcast-ep-31-when-not-to-turn-the-other-cheek
Youtube:
SoundCloud:
https://soundcloud.com/user-961318159/ward-preacher-podcast-ep-31-when-not-to-turn-the-other-cheek
Youtube:
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Courage and Common Sense
One of the most famous stories of courage is when young David, son of Jesse, stood against the titanic Goliath of Gath. David had no armor, and no large weapons, and his very appearance was taken by the giant as an insult.
"And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and of a fair countenance. And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field." (1 Samuel 17:42-44)
David had confidence that the strength and experience of this massive man of war was no match for the power of the Lord... and he did not cower away at the giant's threats:
"Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands." (1 Samuel 17:45-47)
The scriptures indicate that David then ran toward the giant. Using his sling, he knocked Goliath down, and then finished the job with the Philistine's own sword.
Perhaps one of the reasons this story is so popular is because it shows that there is no problem too big for the Lord to solve. The righteous have no need to fear, because God will protect them, and even if he doesn't, he will make things right in the end. Confederate General Stonewall Jackson said:
"Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me....That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave."
A story that is far less famous from the life of David came later, as he fled from the wrath of jealous King Saul:
"And David arose, and fled that day for fear of Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath. And the servants of Achish said unto him, Is not this David the king of the land? did they not sing one to another of him in dances, saying, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands? And David laid up these words in his heart, and was sore afraid of Achish the king of Gath. And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard. Then said Achish unto his servants, Lo, ye see the man is mad: wherefore then have ye brought him to me? Have I need of mad men, that ye have brought this fellow to play the mad man in my presence? shall this fellow come into my house?" (1 Samuel 21:10-15)
Instead of boldly announcing that the Lord would overcome the Philistines in Gath, he pretended insanity to be ignored by them. Where was the courage of his youth?
Of course, here was a situation in which common sense was required. With no safe refuge in his home, he needed to be able to go unnoticed in the land of the Philistines.
Perhaps the contrasting circumstances led the preacher to conclude this:
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace." (Ecclesiastes 3 1-8)
Being able to know what God wants by hearing his voice (Matthew 16:17) or by recognizing his servants (Matthew 10:41) is critical in knowing what is right. When the will of God is being discovered, God expects his children to use common sense (1 Kings 19:11). When a man learns what God would have him do, let that man's heart be filled with confidence and courage (1 Nephi 3:7).
"And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and of a fair countenance. And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field." (1 Samuel 17:42-44)
David had confidence that the strength and experience of this massive man of war was no match for the power of the Lord... and he did not cower away at the giant's threats:
"Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands." (1 Samuel 17:45-47)
The scriptures indicate that David then ran toward the giant. Using his sling, he knocked Goliath down, and then finished the job with the Philistine's own sword.
Perhaps one of the reasons this story is so popular is because it shows that there is no problem too big for the Lord to solve. The righteous have no need to fear, because God will protect them, and even if he doesn't, he will make things right in the end. Confederate General Stonewall Jackson said:
"Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me....That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave."
A story that is far less famous from the life of David came later, as he fled from the wrath of jealous King Saul:
"And David arose, and fled that day for fear of Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath. And the servants of Achish said unto him, Is not this David the king of the land? did they not sing one to another of him in dances, saying, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands? And David laid up these words in his heart, and was sore afraid of Achish the king of Gath. And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard. Then said Achish unto his servants, Lo, ye see the man is mad: wherefore then have ye brought him to me? Have I need of mad men, that ye have brought this fellow to play the mad man in my presence? shall this fellow come into my house?" (1 Samuel 21:10-15)
Instead of boldly announcing that the Lord would overcome the Philistines in Gath, he pretended insanity to be ignored by them. Where was the courage of his youth?
Of course, here was a situation in which common sense was required. With no safe refuge in his home, he needed to be able to go unnoticed in the land of the Philistines.
Perhaps the contrasting circumstances led the preacher to conclude this:
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace." (Ecclesiastes 3 1-8)
Being able to know what God wants by hearing his voice (Matthew 16:17) or by recognizing his servants (Matthew 10:41) is critical in knowing what is right. When the will of God is being discovered, God expects his children to use common sense (1 Kings 19:11). When a man learns what God would have him do, let that man's heart be filled with confidence and courage (1 Nephi 3:7).
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Humility and Confidence
Jesus was an enemy of pride. He was frequently approached by scribes and Pharisees who wanted to assert their superiority by trying to point out flaws in Jesus or his disciples. They were concerned about unwashed hands (Matthew 15:2) and Sabbath day rules adherence (Matthew 12:10), but only because they sought to elevate themselves above the followers of Christ. Jesus warned about this behavior by giving this parable:
"When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted." (Luke 14:8-11, emphasis added)
Their are numerous examples of people who believed that they were better than they were being put down. Pharaoh, the King of Egypt, believed that he was entitled to the service of the Hebrew children, even after enduring great plagues. Only his complete defeat in the depths of the Red Sea stopped him. (Exodus 14) Saul believed he did not need to wait for Samuel to administer in priestly ordinances. (1 Samuel 13) Haman believed that the king wanted to bestow honors upon him rather than Mordecai, and ultimately found himself hanging on the gallows he had prepared for the man he hated. (Esther 6-7)
As much as God despises a proud heart (Proverbs 6:16-17), he is not desirous that his children be depressed or that they hate themselves or that they fail to believe they can be successful. Consider the story of Jonah. His disbelief that he could succeed in preaching the word of the Lord to the people of Nineveh led him to try to escape from God by boarding a ship to Tarshish. (Jonah 1:3) Even after being humbled in the belly of a big fish for three days, he did not believe that his preaching would be successful, and when they repented, he became angry. (Jonah 4:1-3) Though he had been humbled to the point that he recognized the power of God, he prayed for his own death. His self-loathing was answered by God with a lesson. The Lord explained that he had never wanted to destroy Nineveh, but that the people there were valuable to him.
Here is the dilemma with which many people struggle. On the one hand, people are reminded that they are nothing next to God. Consider the teachings of King Benjamin:
"And now I ask, can ye say aught of yourselves? I answer you, Nay. Ye cannot say that ye are even as much as the dust of the earth; yet ye were created of the dust of the earth; but behold, it belongeth to him who created you." (Mosiah 2:25)
On the other hand, people are reminded that they are loved and valued by God. Consider the teaching of Paul:
"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:37-39)
In one case, we are asked not to glory in ourselves, and in the other case, we are reminded that we are the work and glory of God. It can seem as though God is simultaneously saying "you're worthless" and "you're priceless."
Is it possible to be humble, and to be confident? Is it possible to show faith and courage without developing pride?
One of the best examples of this very thing can be found in Gideon. He was called by God a "mighty man of valor" (Judges 6:12), but he described himself as being poor, and the least of his father's house. Notwithstanding his reservations, he acted with courage as the Lord directed him to destroy the altar of Baal. Though there were some who sought his life, the Lord protected him.
Gideon did not presume to think that he was infallible, even after being called by God, he wanted to ensure that he was doing the will of God. He prayed and asked the Lord to confirm that he was doing his will by two signs involving fleece and morning dew. One night, the fleece of wool was soaked with moisture and the land was dry, and the next night, the fleece was dry and the land was wet, just as he asked.
While seeking signs is typically a sign of wickedness and faithlessness (Matthew 12:39), Gideon was not demanding that God prove himself, he was seeking to know that he was following God. This is the type of request to which James referred when he said "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him." (James 1:5)
Humility can be demonstrated by seeking God's guidance through prayer. A humble person is one who recognizes the value of omniscience above their own wisdom.
Ultimately, Gideon's most famous victory came when he whittled his army down to 300 men, sending home any who were afraid, and then those who did not lap water as they drank like animals. (Judges 7:4-7) These three hundred men spread themselves in the camp of the Midianites, and then cried out "The sword of the Lord, and of Gideon!" (Judges 7:19-23) The enemies of Israel slew one another in the confusion, and Gideon prevailed.
Sneaking into an enemy camp is certainly not a plan for the faint of heart. Had they been discovered too soon, the Midianites would have slaughtered them. Even executing the plan correctly, they ran the risk that the Midianites would be disciplined enough to recognize friend from foe. The most important element of these 300 men was their faith that God would deliver them.
Humility can be demonstrated by faithful obedience to his counsel. This does not mean cowering or doubting, but rather, it means acting with confidence that God is able to protect and aid those who follow him.
There are certainly times in which good people are not protected. Innocents are hurt. Prophets have been mocked and thrown out. Jesus Christ himself was betrayed and murdered. In the end though, God will prevail.
This truth does not mean it is a good idea to go to others and assert superiority to them. It does not mean that one person's struggles make them inferior to those who seem not to have struggles. The idea is that everyone needs God. In spite of the miraculous victory of Gideon, after his death, the people returned to idolatry, and the protection of the Lord was withdrawn, and many died in a power struggle. (Judges 9) Those who set themselves up above others were put down.
Confidence is not the same as pride. It is possible to have confidence in the Lord, and in the words of his prophets and apostles without asserting superiority over others. Just as it was with Gideon, strength does not come from comparing oneself with others, it comes from ensuring that a person is doing the will of God, and then being confident that God will make everything right. That is the "sword of the Lord, and of Gideon!"... it is that those who exalt themselves shall be abased, and those who humble themselves shall be exalted.
Monday, March 12, 2012
God's Investment
Many people are familiar with the story of Elisha when he and his servant found themselves surrounded by the Syrian army. His servant feared that they would be killed, but Elisha seemed confident. The man of God offered a famous and profound statement: "Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them." (2 Kings 6:16)
Elisha then prayed that God would open the eyes of his servant. The servant then beheld the mountain filled with horses and chariots of fire protecting Elisha. Elisha prayed that blindness would be put upon the Syrians, and then led them into the land of Israel where they were forced to surrender.
The next part of the story is not as well known. Ben-hadad, the king of Syria gathered his armies and laid siege to Samaria. The Bible indicates that this caused a severe famine in the land. It got so bad that a donkey head was sold for 80 pieces of silver and a portion of dove droppings were sold for 5 pieces of silver... as food. (2 Kings 6:25) When the king of Samaria found that his subjects were resorting to cannibalism, he rent his clothes and swore that he would have the head of Elisha for causing this famine. (2 Kings 6:31)
The king's guards rushed to capture Elisha and, blaming God, one of them declared "...this evil is of the Lord; what should I wait for the Lord any longer?" (2 Kings 6:33)
Elisha prophesied that the following day, food would be so plentiful that a measure of fine flour would be sold for a shekel and two measures of barley for the same. (2 Kings 7:1) This was such a radical change in value from circumstances that sold donkey heads and bird droppings that it was too much for some of them to accept.
One of the king's trusted advisers said "Behold, if the Lord should make windows in heaven, might this thing be?" (2 Kings 7:2) Elisha reprimanded him because of his lack of faith as he told him that he would see it with his own eyes, but he would not eat.
That night, four lepers determined that their fate was not much different if they went to the Syrians as it was if they stayed in Samaria. When they left the city, they found that the Syrians had left in such a rush that they had abandoned all their supplies including their food. The lepers ate and gathered treasure, until finally they decided they should let the city know the siege was over.
Naturally the abundance of supplies immediately drove down the prices of food, just as Elisha the prophet had predicted. The king's advisor that had doubted Elisha saw the prices before the hoards of hungry trampled him to death and he could obtain it to eat.
The economic principles of supply and demand changing the value of commodities is not a difficult concept to understand for societies that embrace any principles of the free market. Determining the value of something even in modern society, or anticipating values, are not always as easy.
Not long ago, I read of a man that was referred to as an idiot for selling a safe he could not open on eBay for $123. The buyer was able to open the safe and found $26,000 inside. If only he had been able to correctly perceive the value of what he had before he unloaded it on eBay to make some quick money...
A person that can correctly interpret or predict the value of items has a great advantage in business. This is so much the case that trading stocks when in possession of insider information has been criminalized, which is why Martha Stewart served time in prison.
I submit that not all insider information is bad however.
What if there was someone who perfectly knew everything that had ever happened, all that would happen in the future, and everything that is currently happening? What if it was possible to know what that person valued? Likely, having this kind of information, what this person valued would be something that remained valuable in spite of supply or demand fluctuations, or the perceptions of others.
There is such a person. We call him our God. His most precious possessions are not stocks, safes, or commodities; he values the race of men. He values humanity.
For someone who could raise the dead, heal the blind, make the deaf hear, and make the lame walk almost instantaneously, he invested a substantial amount of time and effort just in making things ready for men. He divided his creative work into days where he made the light, dark, sky, sea, plants, animals, the sun, and the moon. After all other things were created, then he said "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." (Genesis 1:26-27) God loved them. God blessed them. Not idly did he command that we should love our neighbors as we do ourselves. (Matthew 22:39)
The atheist or the faithless might contradict this claim by saying that if God truly loved mankind, then why is it that people suffer so. Why is it that good people struggle to find work, or are forced to endure sickness and infirmity? Why is it that people who are abusive or hurtful seem to prosper in many cases? If God did care, has he not abandoned us?
To these claims I would respond that God has not abandoned men. He has sent you to care for them. He believes that you will love your neighbor as yourself. He believes that you will lift up the hands that hang down. He believes that you will strengthen the feeble knees.
Those that have been baptized may not make an oral promise, but a promise is made nonetheless. We learn from the pages of the Book of Mormon that this means a commitment not only to obey the commandments of God but to "... bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light; Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things..." (Mosiah 18:8-9)
Brethren who have received the priesthood in so doing swear to God that they will see that there is no lying, evil speaking, or back biting. They swear that they will invite people to pray vocally and in secret. The swear that they will watch over the church. As appropriate, they call down the powers of God himself to give strength, comfort, power, and even to heal the sick.
It is not always easy to be Christian. There are times when any of us become burdened with difficult circumstances, or when pride prevents us from loving our neighbors as God does. When such times come, let us try to remember God's investment.
Everything he does is to help mankind. He spends every waking minute listening to our prayers and sending people to help each other... every waking minute... and he never sleeps. He commands his church to help people among every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. He is calling priests in every unit of his kingdom. The worth of souls is great in the sight of God. (D&C 18:10)
Do not be as the idiot who sold his safe and missed the true value. Do not doubt God as the advisor to the King of Samaria who missed out on the reward because he refused to believe. Finally, do not forget the words of Elisha the prophet during times when it is difficult to help others... "Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them."
Christ, who is the ultimate investment that God has made in us, is coming again. And when he does, he will surely save us all.
Elisha then prayed that God would open the eyes of his servant. The servant then beheld the mountain filled with horses and chariots of fire protecting Elisha. Elisha prayed that blindness would be put upon the Syrians, and then led them into the land of Israel where they were forced to surrender.
The next part of the story is not as well known. Ben-hadad, the king of Syria gathered his armies and laid siege to Samaria. The Bible indicates that this caused a severe famine in the land. It got so bad that a donkey head was sold for 80 pieces of silver and a portion of dove droppings were sold for 5 pieces of silver... as food. (2 Kings 6:25) When the king of Samaria found that his subjects were resorting to cannibalism, he rent his clothes and swore that he would have the head of Elisha for causing this famine. (2 Kings 6:31)
The king's guards rushed to capture Elisha and, blaming God, one of them declared "...this evil is of the Lord; what should I wait for the Lord any longer?" (2 Kings 6:33)
Elisha prophesied that the following day, food would be so plentiful that a measure of fine flour would be sold for a shekel and two measures of barley for the same. (2 Kings 7:1) This was such a radical change in value from circumstances that sold donkey heads and bird droppings that it was too much for some of them to accept.
One of the king's trusted advisers said "Behold, if the Lord should make windows in heaven, might this thing be?" (2 Kings 7:2) Elisha reprimanded him because of his lack of faith as he told him that he would see it with his own eyes, but he would not eat.
That night, four lepers determined that their fate was not much different if they went to the Syrians as it was if they stayed in Samaria. When they left the city, they found that the Syrians had left in such a rush that they had abandoned all their supplies including their food. The lepers ate and gathered treasure, until finally they decided they should let the city know the siege was over.
Naturally the abundance of supplies immediately drove down the prices of food, just as Elisha the prophet had predicted. The king's advisor that had doubted Elisha saw the prices before the hoards of hungry trampled him to death and he could obtain it to eat.
The economic principles of supply and demand changing the value of commodities is not a difficult concept to understand for societies that embrace any principles of the free market. Determining the value of something even in modern society, or anticipating values, are not always as easy.
Not long ago, I read of a man that was referred to as an idiot for selling a safe he could not open on eBay for $123. The buyer was able to open the safe and found $26,000 inside. If only he had been able to correctly perceive the value of what he had before he unloaded it on eBay to make some quick money...
A person that can correctly interpret or predict the value of items has a great advantage in business. This is so much the case that trading stocks when in possession of insider information has been criminalized, which is why Martha Stewart served time in prison.
I submit that not all insider information is bad however.
What if there was someone who perfectly knew everything that had ever happened, all that would happen in the future, and everything that is currently happening? What if it was possible to know what that person valued? Likely, having this kind of information, what this person valued would be something that remained valuable in spite of supply or demand fluctuations, or the perceptions of others.
There is such a person. We call him our God. His most precious possessions are not stocks, safes, or commodities; he values the race of men. He values humanity.
For someone who could raise the dead, heal the blind, make the deaf hear, and make the lame walk almost instantaneously, he invested a substantial amount of time and effort just in making things ready for men. He divided his creative work into days where he made the light, dark, sky, sea, plants, animals, the sun, and the moon. After all other things were created, then he said "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." (Genesis 1:26-27) God loved them. God blessed them. Not idly did he command that we should love our neighbors as we do ourselves. (Matthew 22:39)
The atheist or the faithless might contradict this claim by saying that if God truly loved mankind, then why is it that people suffer so. Why is it that good people struggle to find work, or are forced to endure sickness and infirmity? Why is it that people who are abusive or hurtful seem to prosper in many cases? If God did care, has he not abandoned us?
To these claims I would respond that God has not abandoned men. He has sent you to care for them. He believes that you will love your neighbor as yourself. He believes that you will lift up the hands that hang down. He believes that you will strengthen the feeble knees.
Those that have been baptized may not make an oral promise, but a promise is made nonetheless. We learn from the pages of the Book of Mormon that this means a commitment not only to obey the commandments of God but to "... bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light; Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things..." (Mosiah 18:8-9)
Brethren who have received the priesthood in so doing swear to God that they will see that there is no lying, evil speaking, or back biting. They swear that they will invite people to pray vocally and in secret. The swear that they will watch over the church. As appropriate, they call down the powers of God himself to give strength, comfort, power, and even to heal the sick.
It is not always easy to be Christian. There are times when any of us become burdened with difficult circumstances, or when pride prevents us from loving our neighbors as God does. When such times come, let us try to remember God's investment.
Everything he does is to help mankind. He spends every waking minute listening to our prayers and sending people to help each other... every waking minute... and he never sleeps. He commands his church to help people among every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. He is calling priests in every unit of his kingdom. The worth of souls is great in the sight of God. (D&C 18:10)
Do not be as the idiot who sold his safe and missed the true value. Do not doubt God as the advisor to the King of Samaria who missed out on the reward because he refused to believe. Finally, do not forget the words of Elisha the prophet during times when it is difficult to help others... "Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them."
Christ, who is the ultimate investment that God has made in us, is coming again. And when he does, he will surely save us all.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Legendary: Lessons from Zelda
The frequency of my posts have decreased the past couple of months. I could certainly blame the business of the holiday season, but the real reason is the release of two games that I have been thoroughly enjoying.
One of them is Star Wars: The Old Republic. I love the concept of embracing the light side and rejecting the dark side. Unlike other games in the same genre, this truly gives the feeling that all the enemies I am facing are more than grinding for levels, but that I am protecting the defenseless, liberating the captive, and where possible, extending mercy and forgiveness to those that have gone astray.
The other game is the one on which I would like to focus. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is the latest game in the Zelda franchise. This franchise is close to my heart for several reasons. Zelda is the first game I recall seeing on the Nintendo Entertainment System back in 1987. I was almost immediately captivated by its complexity, its environment, and of course its famous music. Through the years, each new Zelda game has provided a rich and rewarding experience.
For those that may be familiar with older posts, don't worry: this is still a religious blog. It may be difficult for some to immediately draw a positive connection between faith and video games. Nevertheless, I intend to do so. If Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints can speak in general conference about lessons that can be applied from non-religious literary works or even (shudder) musicals (Elder Oaks, April 2003), then I feel justified in so doing.
For those unfamiliar with the Legend of Zelda, the story has significantly expanded since the franchise was first introduced. A critical element, common to most (arguably all) games in the series is the Triforce. The legend goes that the world of Hyrule (the setting for most games) was created by three supreme golden goddesses: Din, goddess of power, Nayru, goddess of wisdom, and Farore, goddess of courage. After the work of creation, these goddesses left the world. In the place where they departed, they left three golden triangles representing their power and influence to govern the world. If a person gained these triangles, they would possess the entire Triforce, and they would have power to make their will a reality. The only apparent safeguard against misuse of the Triforce that was left by the Goddesses was to measure the heart of the person that obtained it. If that person's heart was in balance, then they would maintain control of the entire Triforce. If that person's heart was not in balance, then they would only retain that part with which they were most closely aligned, and the other two parts would be placed inside or made available to two others chosen by fate.
In the most beloved game of the franchise, Ocarina of Time, an evil king of thieves lays his hands on the Triforce coveting power, and retains only the Triforce of Power. Princess Zelda is given the Triforce of Wisdom and goes into hiding. Link, the boy fated to be the hero of the Goddesses, is put in a position to become the keeper of the Triforce of Courage.
Defining the actual "Legend" of Zelda is an argument held in nerdy circles. I interpret it to be this: the Hero of Courage helps the Princess of Wisdom overcome seemingly impossible odds to defeat the tyrannical King of Power.
Another important point is that in the various games, even though the characters "Link" and "Zelda" exist, they are actually different people in different ages fighting potentially different enemies. I say potentially, because there are different super villains in the series, but many of them keep coming back. The most famous of these is Ganon.
A question that frequently arises is why if there are supreme beings that created the world, law to govern it, and creatures to uphold the laws... where are they? Why did they seemingly abandon the world? Why do they allow tyrants, thieves, murderers, and other power-hungry war-mongers to gain even part of their power? Why do they not prevent evil?
In Windwaker, another game in the series, the villain Ganondorf boldly declares to Link as he points out how the world was swallowed by a great flood "Your Gods destroyed you!" It is difficult not to think so.
The concept is not unique to the fictional world of Hyrule. In the highly political climate in the United States, it is easy to be frustrated with someone if not everyone in the government. It is easy to feel discouragement when we observe guilty men escape justice because of technicalities, while some that do good are wrongfully oppressed. It may even seem that the God that made this world appears to have left it to those that covet power. There are few days that go by without news of violent crime, war, and hatred. Why does God not prevent these evils? Why does he not make right these wrongs?
Those that have the patience and perseverance to play through the challenges in the Legend of Zelda perhaps know the answer to these questions.
There is no dungeon without a map. There is a way out of the lost woods. Every boss has a weakness.
Each palace that is explored yields new equipment and abilities. Each nightmare that is defeated increases the vitality of the hero that vanquishes it.
Even worlds that seem overwhelmed with enemies are not void of friends, and showing kindness to people will almost always pay off.
If it were not for Gohma, Dodongo, and Barinade, Link might be stuck with three hearts. Helping round up stray cuccos provides a rich reward.
God did not abandon the world he made. And while we may not know exactly when he will return, his will is made real by heroes who everyday show courage in doing the right thing. In the end, no matter how difficult, it always pays off.
Evil is allowed to be so that heroes can be made, and their purposes and destinies be fulfilled. "For now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face: now I know only in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." (1 Corinthians 13:12)
One of them is Star Wars: The Old Republic. I love the concept of embracing the light side and rejecting the dark side. Unlike other games in the same genre, this truly gives the feeling that all the enemies I am facing are more than grinding for levels, but that I am protecting the defenseless, liberating the captive, and where possible, extending mercy and forgiveness to those that have gone astray.
The other game is the one on which I would like to focus. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is the latest game in the Zelda franchise. This franchise is close to my heart for several reasons. Zelda is the first game I recall seeing on the Nintendo Entertainment System back in 1987. I was almost immediately captivated by its complexity, its environment, and of course its famous music. Through the years, each new Zelda game has provided a rich and rewarding experience.
For those that may be familiar with older posts, don't worry: this is still a religious blog. It may be difficult for some to immediately draw a positive connection between faith and video games. Nevertheless, I intend to do so. If Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints can speak in general conference about lessons that can be applied from non-religious literary works or even (shudder) musicals (Elder Oaks, April 2003), then I feel justified in so doing.
For those unfamiliar with the Legend of Zelda, the story has significantly expanded since the franchise was first introduced. A critical element, common to most (arguably all) games in the series is the Triforce. The legend goes that the world of Hyrule (the setting for most games) was created by three supreme golden goddesses: Din, goddess of power, Nayru, goddess of wisdom, and Farore, goddess of courage. After the work of creation, these goddesses left the world. In the place where they departed, they left three golden triangles representing their power and influence to govern the world. If a person gained these triangles, they would possess the entire Triforce, and they would have power to make their will a reality. The only apparent safeguard against misuse of the Triforce that was left by the Goddesses was to measure the heart of the person that obtained it. If that person's heart was in balance, then they would maintain control of the entire Triforce. If that person's heart was not in balance, then they would only retain that part with which they were most closely aligned, and the other two parts would be placed inside or made available to two others chosen by fate.
In the most beloved game of the franchise, Ocarina of Time, an evil king of thieves lays his hands on the Triforce coveting power, and retains only the Triforce of Power. Princess Zelda is given the Triforce of Wisdom and goes into hiding. Link, the boy fated to be the hero of the Goddesses, is put in a position to become the keeper of the Triforce of Courage.
Defining the actual "Legend" of Zelda is an argument held in nerdy circles. I interpret it to be this: the Hero of Courage helps the Princess of Wisdom overcome seemingly impossible odds to defeat the tyrannical King of Power.
Another important point is that in the various games, even though the characters "Link" and "Zelda" exist, they are actually different people in different ages fighting potentially different enemies. I say potentially, because there are different super villains in the series, but many of them keep coming back. The most famous of these is Ganon.
A question that frequently arises is why if there are supreme beings that created the world, law to govern it, and creatures to uphold the laws... where are they? Why did they seemingly abandon the world? Why do they allow tyrants, thieves, murderers, and other power-hungry war-mongers to gain even part of their power? Why do they not prevent evil?
In Windwaker, another game in the series, the villain Ganondorf boldly declares to Link as he points out how the world was swallowed by a great flood "Your Gods destroyed you!" It is difficult not to think so.
The concept is not unique to the fictional world of Hyrule. In the highly political climate in the United States, it is easy to be frustrated with someone if not everyone in the government. It is easy to feel discouragement when we observe guilty men escape justice because of technicalities, while some that do good are wrongfully oppressed. It may even seem that the God that made this world appears to have left it to those that covet power. There are few days that go by without news of violent crime, war, and hatred. Why does God not prevent these evils? Why does he not make right these wrongs?
Those that have the patience and perseverance to play through the challenges in the Legend of Zelda perhaps know the answer to these questions.
There is no dungeon without a map. There is a way out of the lost woods. Every boss has a weakness.
Each palace that is explored yields new equipment and abilities. Each nightmare that is defeated increases the vitality of the hero that vanquishes it.
Even worlds that seem overwhelmed with enemies are not void of friends, and showing kindness to people will almost always pay off.
If it were not for Gohma, Dodongo, and Barinade, Link might be stuck with three hearts. Helping round up stray cuccos provides a rich reward.
God did not abandon the world he made. And while we may not know exactly when he will return, his will is made real by heroes who everyday show courage in doing the right thing. In the end, no matter how difficult, it always pays off.
Evil is allowed to be so that heroes can be made, and their purposes and destinies be fulfilled. "For now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face: now I know only in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." (1 Corinthians 13:12)
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