Precious Gifts from God + Easter Week Recap

Hello, all! Sorry I missed last week--I had a very busy weekend that included watching General Conference, so blogging took a back seat to being inspired! Very quickly, I will give you a short recap of my week leading up to Easter:

• My focus was "Choose Hope".
• It was a very rough week, but each day I was blessed with a situation that helped me have hope or see hope in my daily life.
• I need to continue with this focus to help me live a happier life.
• General Conference was a beautiful way to help me end a stressful week and gave me even more hope because I was able to go on Sunday morning with a coworker of my husband's who is interested in learning more about the Church!
• Heavenly Father answers prayers.

So, there are my thoughts on that. 

Next, I am very excited to get to be writing this post to go along with the talk "Precious Gifts from God" by President M. Russell Ballard. My sister-in-law had a great idea to create a calendar of talks for us to study until the next conference in October, and this was the first talk on the list. Each week, I will share thoughts on the assigned talk and what I learned. The original challenge is to read the talk each day, but I am not sure I will be able to follow through with that, so I will at least read it each Sunday and refer back to it as it enters my mind during the week. My thoughts will be added to each weekly post. I'll also try to keep including a freebie print. :)

Here's this week's freebie.

I'm not sure how each weekly post will be presented, but this week I'm using bullet points. Each bullet point will include something from the talk that stood out to me from the talk, then my thoughts. I apologize now if some of my thoughts are unclear. Please feel free to ask for clarification in the comments below! Here we go...

• Pres. Ballard encouraged us to write our feelings about the solemn assembly in our journals. I had not done so, but I still remember the feelings that I had. I felt an overwhelming peace and gratitude as I was privileged to participate in the solemn assembly where a new Prophet of the Lord was sustained. I did cry. I did feel hope. This was the beginning of the overwhelming happiness and hope that encompassed that weekend. I know that President Nelson is the prophet that this world needs today, that he was inspired to choose the men he did as counselors, and that the will lead the Savior's Church by hearkening to the work of Jesus Christ, the true head of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
• "In an orderly way we have now begun a new chapter in our Church history. This is a precious gift from God....With our raised hands, we promised to hearken unto his voice as he receives direction from the Lord." I love how the Lord prepares us step-by-step, even over the course of two days. This quote was a preparatory remark to help those of us watching each session become prepared for the different changes made to Church programs Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. I am in awe with the way the Lord's servants can provide those stepping stones to us if we are faithful in keeping the commandments of the Lord!
• "Given the reality of our human weaknesses and shortcomings, how do we move forward in supporting and sustaining each other? It begins with faith—real, sincere faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Faith in the Savior is the first principle of the doctrine and gospel of Christ." I personally struggle with human weaknesses. I struggle with my own and those of others. My faith has been very shaky the last few years because of illness, changes, and new chapters beginning in my life. This statement has encouraged me to work on my faith in Christ. I am hopeful that as I do, I will be able to come to terms with certain situations that have occurred and get past them. I will say this in behalf of all those who struggle with faith (all of us, honestly): DO NOT force your faith on them by making comments that are pointed and demeaning.  The side comments do not help, they create even larger chasms in trust. DO NOT judge them based on how you handle situations and think they should act. When you do this, you are acting from a place of personal opinion, not love. DO NOT view them as lesser than you because they struggle and choose differently than you do. You do not know their personal situation, nor do you understand their motives. DO reach out without the motive of forcing them to conform to any expectations. People don't like being forced into things. Allow people to grow they way they need to. We all have agency, we should respect each other's agency. DO try to understand their perspective by validating feelings to help them move past them. Telling them that they shouldn't have the feelings they do is shaming. The Savior would never shame. He seeks to help us feel understood. This is the basis of loving communication. DO love and serve them. Without strings attached.
• "The power of the Sabbath day is to experience in church and at home the delight, the joy, and the warmth of feeling the Spirit of the Lord without any kind of distraction." This is something I need to work on. Specifically his statement about being too plugged into the world. I made the decision a few years ago to not have the internet continually available on my phone. I was experiencing huge amounts of anxiety. I felt the needs to be constantly available online via every device I owned. Taking a step back, turning off the internet on one device, and allowing myself to place boundaries with regards to getting back to others has helped my anxiety tremendously. My schedule and my life do not need to revolve around the desires and needs of others. I should be aware of them and want to help, but my life should be centered on Christ. In order to do that, I need to be able to hear the Holy Ghost and act when I am prompted by a perfect Being, my Heavenly Father. This means keeping an open mind, a semi-open schedule, and a willing heart when to go where I am guided. It helps when you have a husband like I do who is willing to aid me in my attempts at Christ-like service. Cutting out a lot of social media, email, and watching television on the Sabbath do help me focus on the Savior. I am not perfect at this, but I am wanting to be better!
• "Partaking of the sacrament and renewing our covenants is a sign by us to the Lord that we do always remember Him. His Atonement is a gracious gift from God." This is something that is personal to me. It is something I need to do better. Because it is so personal, this is all that I will share. I think it would be good if each of us seriously took a step back and determined our motives, thoughts, and feelings each week during the sacrament. Am I just partaking because it's a habit? Am I only going through the motions? Does that benefit me?
• "The privilege of service to Heavenly Father’s children is another opportunity to follow the example of His Beloved Son by serving one another." I feel that, in the past, I have been mistaken as to which service is most important--a Church calling or service rendered to those who don't attend the Church each week. I have come to realize that there are times and seasons. Service to any of God's children is service to Him. Not just those who attend Church each week, but anyone we come in contact with. We won't get more "points" for fulfilling callings than serving those outside the Church or vice versa. Our baptismal covenant doesn't specify that we "mourn with those who mourn" in our congregations only. There is no specificity in that language. I will say, though, I truly feel that where our service is going to be mostly scrutinized is within the walls of our homes. We have made specific covenants with those who live with us, and those covenants can bind us together or tear us apart. Each covenant we make is also tied to the Lord. How does our interactions with those in our homes (and outside of them) reflect on our relationship with the Lord?
• "Peter may have given the best description of the Savior’s mortal ministry in five words when he referred to Jesus, 'who went about doing good' (Acts 10:38)." I need to stop putting boundaries on my service, and just go about doing good without worrying about stepping on toes or offending someone who feels it isn't my job to help. I firmly believe that when we are prompted to do good, we need no further "permission". You have been given permission from God. Who has a higher authority?

I am sure that as I ponder and re-read, I will be further edified. I invite you to come and join us each week, should you feel the desire! Have a wonderful week!

Easter Week

Hello, friends! I am sorry I missed last week, although I'm sure I'm the only one who noticed. ;) I was down with bronchitis and slept all day long. It was glorious and needed. But, I'm back with a new post this week!

The Easter week is one that spur many to rethink and change. I look forward to each year as the Church offers an initiative at www.mormon.org/easter to help me focus my week more fully on the Savior, plus the beautiful Easter video (click to watch, or watch below). This year is no different, and I am so excited!

I love that there are four choices for me to choose from that I can use as my focus this week. The options are "Love Your Neighbor", "Look to God", "Focus on Family", and "Embrace Hope". After reading each section, along with activities to help keep each focus, I am torn between two--"Look to God" and "Embrace Hope". I will make my decision this evening, then be back next week with a report!

After I read through this page, I decided to start thinking about what I could do to help others feel the spirit of rebirth at Easter. With that in mind, I counseled with my husband and we have decided to make special Easter candles to take to specific people on Easter Sunday. I have made a tag to go along with it.

Here's the tag:

It measures 2" x 3". If you would like a PDF sheet with these (without the watermark), please find them HERE! Feel free to email me at onastampage @ gmail.com if you have trouble accessing the file.

I leave you with my favorite Easter video.

Have a blessed week, friends!

First Observe, Then Serve: The Resurrected Lord

Welcome back to the last post in my "First Observe, Then Serve" series.  To participate in this online discussion, please see my first post of this series with all the information!  Feel free to join our Facebook group, as well, where people from all walks of life are joining the conversation.

Today's post focuses on the resurrected Lord and Mary in the garden.  You can find this story in John chapter 20.

Mary Magdalene came to the tomb of the Savior on the first day of the week.  When she arrived there, she saw that the stone had been rolled away and that Jesus' body was no longer there.  She immediately ran and told His apostles what happened.  After the apostles came and saw that she was correct, and that the linens Christ's body had been wrapped in were still there, they left and went home.  But Mary did not.  She stayed near the tomb.

As she stands at the entrance of the tomb, sobbing and inconsolable, she sees two angels.  They ask her why she is crying.  She tells them she is crying because she doesn't know where Jesus' body has been taken.  There are so many things she could be imagining about what had happened to it. Because she loves the Lord so much, she is overcome with grief.

Mary turns aside and sees another figure.  In her agony, she does not recognize who it is.  He asks her why she is crying.  She begs Him to tell her where the body of the Savior is so that she can bring Him back to the tomb.  In one word, the Savior calms and consoles her.  That one word is her name.

She must have heard the Lord say her name many times.  She immediately knows who He is after this one word.  She turns to Him and says, "Master!"  She knows who He is and what she means to Him.  He tells her not to touch Him, because He has not yet gone to Father in Heaven.  He asks her to tell His apostles what has happened.  She immediately goes and does so.

It is amazing to me that the first person that the risen Lord revealed Himself to was a woman.  What also amazes me is His ability to help her to feel joy after so much sorrow in such a quick way.  There are a few things that I see in this story that help me to become better at observing and then serving.

The first thing I see is that Christ notices that something is wrong.  Now, of course, Mary is sobbing and distraught.  There will be times when we see that in others and are able to help.  The harder thing to do is recognize other signs that mean someone is overwhelmed and help them.

In my life, I have noticed that people usually withdraw when they see intense emotions in others.  What if, instead, we were willing to listen to them so that they can work out feelings and issues?  Feelings are human.  We all have them.  It's not healthy to tell people not to feel.  It is healthy to help them deal with their feelings in an appropriate way.  The Savior did not tell Mary to stop crying.  He allowed her to do so as He comforted her.

The next thing I see is that the Savior asked what was wrong.  So many times we assume that we know what is going on with others.  I have experienced this in my life.  Due to our journey with infertility, many people assume that is what drives my life, as well as my husband's life.  Fortunately, this is not the case.  We have other daily issues that come up and make things difficult, as well.  It has been those people who have actually asked what is going on, instead of assuming, who have been able to help us more fully as we struggle to make it through.  We should never assume that we know a person's heart or what is troubling them.  We should ask, so that we can serve more perfectly.

I also love that Christ knows exactly what to say to comfort Mary.  He doesn't give a long speech about how she should be glad because He's back and how awesome it is that it happened.  He states her name.  He tells her the basics, and doesn't overwhelm her even more.  Learning what to say and when to say it is an incredibly difficult thing to do.  There is only one way to be able to do so--follow the Spirit.

There was a time in my life when I was out visiting with the sister missionaries assigned to my ward.  We went into the home of a sister who was really struggling.  She was very upset and was yelling as she expressed her anger, frustration, and grief.  The poor sister missionaries sat there, looking visibly upset, also.  I sat there praying that I would have the words I needed to say when the time was right.  I did not interrupt, which is difficult for me--just ask anyone who knows me.  I'm working on that.

After this woman, who I dearly love, finished saying what she needed to say, I took a breath, and looked at her.  I said her name, told her I loved her and wished I could take away all the pain.  I then told her that I couldn't do that unless she was willing to also put forth the effort to help herself.  She stopped, looked at me, said, "You are exactly right.  And I don't want to help myself right now."  I will never forget that.  I then said, "When you are ready, I am here."

She immediately started to cry softly, calmed down, and we were able to come up with a plan to help her.  Those words were NOT something I would have said of my own volition.  I tend to want to fix things.  Those words were an answer to prayer.  This experience taught me that fewer words and more listening help to invite the Lord's Spirit to be with me in times when others need me the most.  I am not perfect about doing so, but I am working on it.

The Savior's example of observing and serving is something that is imperative for us to study and take into our daily lives.  And it is incredibly easy to do, if we take small steps each day to be better.  Start in your home.  Express love to your spouse when they have done something to irritate you.  Make your child's bed for them, even if they are able to do so.  Make a phone call to a family member you don't get to speak to regularly.  After you do that, take small steps towards those around you.  I know that out of small things, great changes can be made in our relationships.

That is all that I have for today, and for this series!  I hope that you have gained something from these posts.  I know that they have encouraged me to be better and do more each day.  Now it's your turn one last time. :)  What do you see in this story about the need to first observe, then serve?  I can't wait to hear your thoughts!  Feel free to email me, comment below, or join our Facebook group.  Do what you are comfortable with!  I'll be back next Tuesday with the last installment of this series.  Until then, HUGS and prayers sent your way! :)

P.S.: Please make sure that you keep all comments uplifting and kind.  Assume the best of each other and read all comments in a positive manner.  I truly believe that anyone commenting is only seeking to be understood and heard, not offend. :)

First Observe, Then Serve: The Crucifixion

Welcome back to another post in my "First Observe, Then Serve" series.  To participate in this online discussion, please see my first post of this series with all the information on what to expect over the next four weeks!  Feel free to join our Facebook group, as well, where people from all walks of life are joining the conversation.

This week I want to share my thoughts about Jesus's act of service for His mother at the time of His death.  You can find the account of this in John chapter 19.  This is a very short and to the point act of service and takes place as He is performing His most important act of service--dying for all mankind.

In the midst of all His pain and suffering, the Lord still had time to look down, see His mother, and entrust her care to one of His apostles.  This is amazing to me.  With everything going on, Christ still took the time to be observing and serving those around Him.

Firstly, this act was performed for His mother.  This reiterates to me how service must originate in the home.  Home is our first and greatest responsibility.  Any time we seek to serve, we should look to those closest to us before anyone else.  When we take care of things at home, we are more able to help others and it will not seem to be a burden because we will feel that all is well with those we love the most.  This doesn't mean that we use that as an excuse not to serve.  It just means that there will be times and seasons when serving outside the home will be less possible, and that's ok!  Follow the Spirit, and you can't go wrong.

Secondly, I have learned that importance of always serving--no matter our circumstances.  There have been times that I have been very sick or in pain and service has seemed impossible.  In those times, I have been blessed by the service of others and realized how important it is to always be serving.  If the Savior, in extreme agony, far more than any other man has or will experience here on earth, is capable of performing yet another act of service during His darkest hour, I can do so, too.  This has encouraged me to look outside myself at all times.  Service usually helps me feel happier, and I need to remember to serve when I need it the most, too.  That is the beauty of service--it reminds us of our potential and eternal worth, and benefits all involved.

That is all that I have for today!  What do you see in this story about the need to first observe, then serve?  I can't wait to hear your thoughts!  Feel free to email me, comment below, or join our Facebook group.  Do what you are comfortable with!  I'll be back next Tuesday with the last installment of this series.  Until then, HUGS and prayers sent your way! :)

P.S.: Please make sure that you keep all comments uplifting and kind.  Assume the best of each other and read all comments in a positive manner.  I truly believe that anyone commenting is only seeking to be understood and heard, not offend. :)

First Observe, Then Serve: The Woman With the Alabaster Box

Welcome back to another post in my "First Observe, Then Serve" series.  To participate in this online discussion, please see my first post of this series with all the information on what to expect over the next four weeks!  Feel free to join our Facebook group, as well, where people from all walks of life are joining the conversation.

The story for this week comes from Luke chapter 7.  Towards the end of His earthly life, the Savior was invited to eat dinner at one of the Pharisee's homes.  He went, and while they were eating, a woman came and started anointing Christ.  

The host, Simon, was appalled.  He thought to himself that if Jesus really was who He claimed to be, He would NEVER allow a sinner to serve Him.  Christ perceives what His host is thinking and tells a story about a man who forgives two debtors.  One was forgiven a 500 pence debt, the other a 50 pence debt.  The Savior then asks, "Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?"  To which Simon replies, "I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most."

The Savior tells Simon that he is correct.  He points out that, as host, there were some very important duties that Simon had neglected.  This woman, a sinner, filled that role.  He then tells the woman that her sins are forgiven and that she may go in peace.

I love this story.  It is very short and to the point, but is also profoundly deep when looked at more closely.  The Savior knew that this woman would be reviled because of her sins.  The Pharisees are oh so good at finding fault.  Yet the Savior allowed her to serve Him.  And then, later one, He stood up for her and showed that He understood her motives.  

We are all sinners, yet we all should be striving to serve.  How much easier is it to serve when we know people are not questioning our motives?  What if we all decided to think the best of each other instead of trying to place our own motives at the feet of those who serve?  It is a hard thing to do.  We all have opinions, so we all think our way is the best way most of the time.  For myself, this story is a lesson that I need to allow others their agency and serve how they see fit.  When it's my time to serve in the same capacity, I will hope they will afford me the same courtesies.

The other important part I see here is that Christ forgives the woman.  He knew her sins, but He forgave.  Why?  Because of love.  Always love.  Isn't that beautiful?  The Savior loves us SO MUCH that He is willing to forgive us of anything.  We just have to believe in Him and act accordingly.

I ran across a quote earlier today that really struck me.  C.S. Lewis once said, "We all agree that forgiveness is a beautiful idea until we have to practice it."  The Savior is our ultimate example in this.  Let us allow others to serve us, and forgive them their weaknesses as they do so.  We ALL have them, right?!  I know I do.  I feel that forgiveness is such an amazing act of service--not only for the one being forgiven, but for ourselves, also.  And it's something we can do to serve every single day!

That is all I have for you today, friends!  So, what do you see in this story about the need to first observe, then serve?  I can't wait to hear your thoughts!  Feel free to email me, comment below, or join our Facebook group.  Do what you are comfortable with!  I'll be back next Tuesday with the next story in this series.  Until then, HUGS and prayers sent your way! :)

P.S.: Please make sure that you keep all comments uplifting and kind.  Assume the best of each other and read all comments in a positive manner.  I truly believe that anyone commenting is only seeking to be understood and heard, not offend. :)

First Observe, Then Serve: Mary, Martha, and Lazarus

Welcome back to another post in my "First Observe, Then Serve" series.  To participate in this online discussion, please see my first post of this series with all the information on what to expect over the next four weeks!  Feel free to join our Facebook group, as well, where people from all walks of life are joining the conversation.

This week will be talking about Mary and Martha, with regards to the death of their brother, Lazarus. This story is found in John chapter 11.

Jesus knew this family well.  Mary, Martha, and Lazarus knew Him to be the Savior, and Mary and Martha had faith that He could perform miracles.  This is why, when their brother became ill, they sent for Christ to come and save Lazarus.  

Instead of leaving to go heal Lazarus right away, Jesus stays where He is for a few more days.  After that time, He tells his disciples that He will go to Judea to see His friends.  His disciples try to dissuade the Lord, because there are many people in that part of the land who want to kill Christ.  Jesus's answer is that He must go and wake Lazarus.  They think He means that Lazarus is sleeping, but Christ means that Lazarus is dead and He will resurrect his friend.

When they get closer to the home of Mary and Martha, Jesus learns that Lazarus has been buried for four days.  Many people were going in and out of the house to comfort the sisters, so Christ stays further away from the house.  When they hear that Christ has come, Martha runs to Him and, in her grief, states, "Lord, is thou hadst been here, my brother had not died."

This statement was not a condemnation of the Lord's actions, though.  As soon as she states that she knew Jesus would have healed Lazarus, Martha reveals even more faith in her Savior and says, "But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee."  

Christ tells her that her brother will rise again, and she says that she knows she will see Lazarus after the resurrection, not realizing that the Savior can literally bring Lazarus back from the dead immediately.  Then comes one of my favorite scriptures from the Savior's lips as He tells Martha, "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die."  He then asks her,  "Believest thou this?"

Martha tells Him that she believes, then takes her sister aside from the other mourners to tell her that Jesus has come.  They go together again to the place where He is waiting for them, followed by those who had come to comfort the sisters.  Mary expresses the same faith as her sister, stating that Lazarus would still be alive if the Lord had come earlier.

The Savior asks to be taken to the place where Lazarus is buried.  When He gets there, he weeps.  He tells them to roll away the stone.  He prays, and then commands Lazarus to come forward, and Lazarus does.

The first thing I notice about this story is the fact that, even though Christ heard about a need, He waited.  We know that Christ is all knowing.  He knew that this would be an opportunity to strengthen the faith of Mary and Martha and help others realize His true nature.  Therefore, He waited before He hearkened to a request for help.

How does this apply to us?  I believe that if we are in tune with the Spirit, there will be times when a call for service will be answered by the Spirit telling us to wait.  I have experienced this in my personal life.  There have been times when I knew that I needed to do something for myself and felt the need to wait.  There have been times when I felt the urgency of a situation for someone else, but I felt the need to wait.  In all these instances, when led by the Spirit, the timing worked out more perfectly than what I originally thought it should be.  God is amazing like that.

Another way that Christ observed in this story was to not come directly into the house when He arrived.  I think His disciples might have thought this was because there were those who wanted Him dead, but I think it was for a different reason.  I think He knew that His presence would garner a very large amount of attention on Himself, and this situation was not only about Him.  It was also about two sisters who were grieving a very serious loss.  They no longer had a protector and provider.  This situation was almost dangerous, in fact.  His focus was on helping those in need, not on creating a lot of attention for Himself.  And so, He stayed away from the house.

There will be times when there are very serious needs around us, that are also very public knowledge.   In those times, our true character will be tested.  Are we serving to be seen?  Or are we serving out of love for our brothers, sisters, and God?  Granted, there are times that service is unavoidably public, but I feel that the majority of our service can and should be done in a way that creates trust.  This can only happen when done in confidentiality, sometimes.

Next, the Savior observed and served as He continually explained Himself throughout this story.  When someone did not understand exactly what He was talking about, He clarified.  This is the pattern for good and open communication--something desperately needed in our society today.  Martha stated her need, Christ gives her hope.  She misunderstands, Christ clarifies.  He is very in tune with what she is saying and what she is taking away from the conversation.

This kind of productive communication takes TIME and the guidance of the Spirit.  It takes a willingness to understand where another person is coming from.  It is genuinely thoughtful and supportive.  This is how I wish our communications with each other would be conducted.  There would be a lot less anger and more forgiveness floating around out there if so.

Another simple act of service that Christ performed was to weep.  He literally mourned with this family.  We are commanded to do the same.  It is not weakness to cry with someone who is in great pain and anguish.  It is Godly.  It can help those suffering see that we are truly feeling what they feel and help us connect more one on one.

Sitting and crying with someone going through a bitter disappointment can, in and of itself, start to bind up wounds that are exposed and raw.  I say this with personal experience.  There have been a few times when I had someone willing to sit and just cry with me as I talked through things.  Usually, this is my husband.  Yes, he cries with me.  Please don't let him know that's all over the internet, though. ;)  But because he is willing to do this, our marriage is stronger.  Others who have cried with me are dear friends that I could not trade for anything in this world.  These relationships are the ones that last through moves, years, and other happenings.  All because someone was willing to cry with me.

Lastly, the supreme act of service that Jesus was intending--raising Lazarus from the grave.  In so doing, He showed that He was there to give hope--not just to this family, but hope to everyone in a resurrection!  Really, this act of service is even for US, though it took place thousands of years ago.  The knowledge that Christ has the power to literally raise the dead can give us hope that a resurrection will happen.  It really will!  Each of us will be resurrected because of Christ's Atonement and His power to do so!  What an amazing gift.

We may not ever be able to do something as extraordinary as this, but I know that, with the help of the Spirit and God, we can do hard and seemingly impossible things.  So, my invitation to you this week is to do something that is difficult for you, with regards to service.  It might be taking time to make a treat and giving it to a neighbor.  It could be making that phone call to the person you would really like to never speak to again.  Perhaps it's just going out of your way to help your spouse with housework or other projects you feel are their responsibility.  Whatever it may be, I know that you can do it, and so does the Savior!  We are cheering you on!

So, what do you see in this story about the need to first observe, then serve?  I can't wait to hear your thoughts!  Feel free to email me, comment below, or join our Facebook group.  Do what you are comfortable with!  I'll be back next Tuesday with the next story in this series.  Until then, HUGS and prayers sent your way! :)

P.S.: Please make sure that you keep all comments uplifting and kind.  Assume the best of each other and read all comments in a positive manner.  I truly believe that anyone commenting is only seeking to be understood and heard, not offend. :)

First Observe, Then Serve: Woman With an Issue of Blood

Welcome back to another post in my "First Observe, Then Serve" series.  To participate in this online discussion, please see my first post of this series with all the information on what to expect over the next four weeks!  Feel free to join our Facebook group, as well, where people from all walks of life are joining the conversation.

I feel the need to preface this week's post with a semi-warning.  This topic is incredibly sensitive for me and this story completely pertinent to my life.  While I have never gone for years bleeding, I have had the experience of bleeding for months on end (and heavily, not like spotting), and so this story is close to my heart.  Because of this, I may or may not make sense for the rest of the post, due to crying and being overly emotional.  I apologize in advance.

This story is actually what gave me the idea for this blog series.  It can be found in Mark chapter 5.  
Before we start the story, I want to give a bit of background about this woman and her real predicament.  I know personally how weak you become when you bleed for an extended amount of time.  I cannot imagine having this go on for 10 years.  The longest I have had to deal with this was three months, and it was horrible.  There are some days that are ok, but there are a lot of days where you are so weak, you literally cannot take care of yourself.  You feel worthless and useless.  You need help, and you need it for an extended amount of time.  It's hard to find people willing to do that.

On top of this issue, this woman lived at a time where the Jews were living the Law of Moses.  Not only was this woman physically confined to her home, but she was also considered unclean.  Anyone who was willing to help her would also be considered unclean, and would have to go through cleansing rituals before they would be allowed to join daily life again.  Because of these issues, I'm sure this woman was very lonely.  I would hope that she had a large safety net of people who were willing to help her out, but I fear that was might not have been the case.  So now, to the story...

Jesus was on His way to heal the daughter of a man who was a ruler in the local synagogue.  It was literally a matter of life and death.  A woman who had been bleeding for 10 years heard that the Savior was coming and knew that if she could just touch His clothing, she would be healed.  She desperately needed to be healed.  She didn't want to bother Him, and knew that He was busy.

Jesus was walking through the crowd, trying to get to the girl who is in need of His help.  He felt someone touch Him and asked who it was.  His apostles were taken aback because it could have been anyone.  They probably were trying to encourage the Lord to get to His destination quickly, but Christ knew that there was someone there who needed His help.

He saw the woman, and she became frightened.  There are a few reasons she was probably afraid.  Firstly, she was not supposed to be out among other people because of her health problems and uncleanness.  Secondly, the fact that she touched the Savior meant that He would be considered unclean according to the Law of Moses and might not be able to go and help the other girl who needed Him.  This might possibly make Him angry.  

But, of course, Jesus was not angry.  He says to this woman, who had been suffering for so long, "...go in peace, and be whole..."  I can only imagine the joy that this woman felt hearing those words.  Knowing that her faith was placed in the right person who would help her at the right time--there is no better feeling.

We live in a world where the Savior is not able to be here to help us physically each day.  He relies on us.  So what can we learn from this story?  The first thing I see is that we should always act by the Spirit.  If we are going about our lives doing things and feel that we really need to call someone or go visit someone, DO IT.  Don't wait.  Do it immediately.

Next, remember that all people are important to the Lord.  Even though Jesus was on His was to serve a leader of the synagogue, He stopped to help a woman that was considered unclean and unworthy to be among the crowd.  There are no unimportant people in this world.  Nobody deserves more or less service based on any type of criteria.

Thirdly, we have to be so in tune with the Spirit to see the little acts of reaching out sometimes.  What could the touching of someone's clothing in a crowd amount to in your daily life?  For me it has been a scowl and unfriendly word, a sad smile accompanied by an "I'm ok!", and even just a feeling that something wasn't quite right.  It is so hard to get rid of the noise of the world and look past what we think others SHOULD do to ask for help so that we can see what they DO say or do instead.  Like I've said before, we cannot judge the people we serve.  This includes not judging the way they ask for help.
That is all I have for you today, friends.  I hope you share your impressions about this story with me!  What do you see in this story about the need to observe, then serve?  I can't wait to hear your thoughts!  Feel free to email me, comment below, or join our Facebook group.  Do what you are comfortable with!  I'll be back next Tuesday with the next story in this series.  Until then, HUGS and prayers sent your way! :)

P.S.: Please make sure that you keep all comments uplifting and kind.  Assume the best of each other and read all comments in a positive manner.  I truly believe that anyone commenting is only seeking to be understood and heard, not offend. :)

First Observe, Then Serve: The Woman Taken in Adultery

Welcome back to another post in my "First Observe, Then Serve" series.  To participate in this online discussion, please see my first post of this series with all the information on what to expect over the next four weeks!  Feel free to join our Facebook group, as well, where people from all walks of life are joining the conversation.

This week's story is the woman taken in adultery, found in John chapter 8.  One thing that I have found when I read this story is that I get more out of it if I think about it from the woman's perspective.  We are all this woman.  We all sin.  We all need the Savior.  There will be times when others point out our failings and try to make an example of us.  Or there might also be times when people around us try to get us to degrade others because of their sins.  The Savior's example from this story teaches us that these are times for courage and service.  First, let me give my take on the story, then I'll share more about what I have learned.

One day, Jesus was sitting in the temple teaching a group of people who had come to learn from Him.  In the middle of His teaching, His enemies (the scribes and Pharisees) interrupt Him by presenting a woman that had been taken in adultery.  They demand that the Savior explain His take on what should happen to this woman.  The Law of Moses stated she should be stoned.  This is yet another trap that they lay at Christ's feet to try and condemn Him.

The Savior does not answer these men.  Instead, He starts to write in the sand as though He did not hear the question.  The scribes and Pharisees continue to demand an answer from Him.  His answer is profound, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her."

We do not know what Christ was writing on the ground, but He continued this task.  Some people have told me they think that He was writing a list of sins on the ground, specific to the group of men doing the accusing.  This is possible.  Whatever it was He wrote, as well as His statement, obviously pricked these men to their hearts.  I find it very interesting that they leave from oldest to youngest, as well.

By the time the Savior looks us and asks the woman where her accusers are, they have all gone.  He specifically asks her, "...hath no man condemned thee?"  She responds that none of the men have condemned her.  Christ then gives her an invitation by saying, "Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more."  

Can you imagine the woman's relief?  Without Christ's intervention, she would have died!  Each time I read this story, my eyes fill with tears and my heart pounds, knowing that this same invitation is extended to me on a daily basis.  We are all in serious danger of spiritual death without the Atonement of the Savior.  

Something else that strikes me from this story is the fact that the Savior was in the middle of teaching others.  He could have told these men that He would deal with this situation later, but He knew that a life was at stake.  He knows that each day, our spiritual lives are at stake!  

Instead of just ignoring and continuing on, the Savior met an immediate need first.  This is important when we are observing and serving.  There are times when we meet people who need A LOT of help.  Shoot, I'm that person sometimes!  When this happens, it is exceedingly important to make sure that we meet the most immediate needs first.  That might mean that we get them some food or water.  It might mean that we pray with them.

Going along with this same issue, there are times when it seems like everyone needs a piece of us.  It's those times that God expects us to prioritize.  We cannot help every single person we know with every single problem they have.  BUT, if we are listening to the Spirit, God will let us know what is most important and how to meet that need.  It also helps to ask the person what need is most immediate.  Making sure that needs in our homes and families are met first and foremost will make it possible for us to then go and be more effective in our service to others.

Another important thing that I see in this story is that when someone is being accused and reviled publicly, that's an opportunity for service.  We can be an advocate for others.  We can strive to see the good in everyone and make sure that people's names are safe on our lips.  Sometimes, this act of service is absolutely priceless.  I am not the best at doing this, but this is one thing that pricked my heart as I read.  I will be working harder at this.

The next thing I thought of with regards to this story is how Christ was allowing His time to be used in service of this woman.  Service, true service, can take time.  LOTS of time.  Like sitting and consoling someone for three or more hours time.  Are you willing to do that?  Sometimes we equate giving things as the ultimate act of service.  I reject that notion.  I think it is far better to give our time to someone.  This helps them see how important they are as an individual.  Can you image how different our world would be if we all took the time to truly get to know each other?  Can you imagine how much easier life would be if there was at least one person you knew would always make time for you?  Yes, God and the Savior do have time for us, I know.  But we need human interaction.  Making time for others is crucial to their well being, as well as ours, because hopefully then the favor will be reciprocated.

The last thought I have about this story is this, and it's the same point as something I mentioned last week--do not judge those you serve.  If you want to read my thoughts on that, go HERE (it's number four on my list further down).  After this story is completed, Jesus returned to talk to the Pharisees about this issue.  He said, "Ye judge after the flesh; I judge no man. And yet if I judge, my judgment is true..."  Christ will always judge us based on eternal truths, not by how others see us.  What a blessing, too.  I would hate for my enemies to sway my Savior's opinion of me! 

I did have one other thing I wanted to add, as well.  When a person is known to judge others through gossip or other unkind interactions, it makes trusting them difficult.  Even if they are not bad mouthing you, you still don't know if they will say something about you to someone else and make that person believe you are the worst human alive.  People lose friends this way each and every day.  Don't judge other people based on another's bad opinion--you will be accountable for it!

Because trust is so essential to service, make sure that your interactions with ALL people are kind and show tolerance.  This will make others around you more apt to ask you for help and trust you with their personal issues.   This comes from my personal experience and feelings.  I do not trust easily, and so when I am around people who constantly complain about others, it makes me very wary about asking them for help.  Service is such personal thing, and people want to feel safe.  Be the person who is safe by keeping their feelings close to your heart, not easily spilled out of your mouth. ;)

Now it's your turn!  What do you see in this story about the need to observe, then serve?  I can't wait to hear your thoughts!  Feel free to email me, comment below, or join our Facebook group.  Do what you are comfortable with!  I'll be back next Tuesday with the story of the woman who had an issue of blood.  Until then, HUGS and prayers sent your way! :)

P.S.: Please make sure that you keep all comments uplifting and kind.  Assume the best of each other and read all comments in a positive manner.  I truly believe that anyone commenting is only seeking to be understood and heard, not offend. :)

First Observe, Then Serve: The Woman at the Well

I am currently sharing a series of posts on Christ's example of observing needs and then meeting them.  To participate in this online discussion, please see my first post of this series with all the information on what to expect over the next four weeks!  Feel free to join our Facebook group, as well, where people from all walks of life are joining the conversation.

Firstly, I must warn you all that today's post is long.  I wasn't intending it to be, but as I pondered and wrote, more things came to my mind that I felt I needed to share.

Today's example of Christ's example of observing and then serving occurred as He was going about His daily life.  It can be found in John chapter 4 in the New Testament.  Here is my retelling...

Christ was travelling, as He often did, and stopped to rest at a well.  A woman approached the well and we know that He knew her from what He says later on.

Instead of asking her what He could do to help, He requested service from her.  The woman thought this very strange, because Jews and Samaritans hated each other.  She questions His motives. He responds that, if she knew who she was speaking to, she would have instead asked Him for water.  This is the desire of her heart.  She asks how He could possibly give her water.  He has nothing to draw water from the well, and she queries whether Christ is greater than Jacob.

Instead of being offended, Christ teaches her an eternal principle--that He is the living water that brings everlasting life.  This is the desire of her heart, and she requests water from Him.  Christ does not immediately give her this gift, though.  He requests that she call her husband, knowing she is living in sin.  She cannot, and He gives her details about her life to show that He is omnipotent.

The woman then calls Jesus a prophet.  Seeing that she is starting to open her eyes to the possibility that He is the Savior, and knowing she is troubled with regards to her worship of God, He expounds more doctrine unto her, reassuring her that she is able to worship anywhere.  This comforts her heart even more.  She reveals that she believes in a Messiah, and He adds to her knowledge by stating that He is the Messiah.

There are so many things that I have learned from this story.  Before I share them, I want to note that this parable is a type of our daily lives.  We will not be able to be successful in under five minutes, like the Savior was, because we are not perfect or omnipotent.  By looking at each request or question and answer portion of the story as equal to a single interaction with a person, we can see that, for us, becoming perfect at observing and serving can sometimes take time as we build relationships.

The first thing that I learned from this story is that each person is important, and if you help them realize that they are important to you, you will be able to serve them more completely.  This is not something that can just be said, and all is well.  Making people feel important means asking about them and being good communicators.  It is putting the other person before yourself and genuinely caring what they have to offer and share.  Getting someone a drink of water was no big deal to this woman, it was who was asking that made the event important.  Sometimes requesting service from someone is the way that they need you to show that you recognize that they are needed.

Secondly, we must understand a person's heart and desires before we can meet their needs.  Each person has trials, regrets, goals, sorrows, and strengths.  By getting to know a person, we will be able to not only strengthen bonds of friendship, but garner trust.  This is something that takes time.  It also takes consistency.  Christ did not get up and ignore the woman during any part of their conversation.  True and lasting friendships require continual communication with each other.  This means different things to different people, but we should be in direct communication with those we claim to love and want to serve as much as possible, as led by the Spirit.

The third thing I have learned from this story is that people are not sustained on one act of service alone.  From my count, Christ performed five micro-services during the course of His discussion with this woman.  Five acts of service in probably less than five minutes!  If anything, I feel this shows that one act of service is not enough to change a life or a relationship.  It may take more than 5 acts, even, but if we act in patience and love, as the Savior did in this story, we can change lives.

Number four is broad, but I'll get more specific in my comments--it is simply "do not judge those you serve."  Christ saw into this woman's heart.  She was sinning grievously, and yet the Savior never once told her to repent.  He showed her who He was, and knew that, because her heart was in the right place, she would repent.  Not only does this show that even the Savior sometimes doesn't explicitly call someone to repentance, it shows that He respected this woman's agency.  Allowing others to make choices, but to still love and serve them is a hallmark of a Christ-centered life.

The fifth thing I learned is that we never know when someone is ready to hear truth, or how that will change them.  The Savior could have withheld His identity because the woman was living unworthily.  He did not.  We never know what changes can begin in a person's life when we simply share a testimony of a loving Savior or any other truth.  These acts are services rarely known as such.

Finally, I love how the Savior ends His conversation with this woman with words of comfort and hope.  Service should always be something that uplifts others.  Participating in gossip (I'm guilty and working on it!) does not constitute serving someone.  Allowing others to share feelings with you is absolutely fine, but leave them better than you found them.  Don't malign others in hopes of finding common ground.  Relationships built on mutual hatred will never have a strong foundation.  Make sure that your actions allow you to feel good about your service.

So, there you have it!  I told you it was long, didn't I?  I hope that you were able to gain some sort of insight from my ramblings today, friends!  Now it's your turn--what aspects of this story inspire you to do better at observing and then serving?  I can't wait to hear them in the comments below!  If you'd rather, there's a Facebook group designed to continue the discussion for those more comfortable there.  Come join us!  I'll be back on Friday with my thoughts on the woman taken in adultery found in John chapter 8.  Until then, sending hugs and prayers your way! :)

P.S.: Please make sure that you keep all comments uplifting and kind.  Assume the best of each other and read all comments in a positive manner.  I truly believe that anyone commenting is only seeking to be understood and heard, not offend. :)

First Observe, Then Serve: An Introduction + The Savior's First Miracle

Throughout the years, I have been amazed at the service Christ rendered to women in the New Testament.  It always amazes me to see how much love our Savior has for each of us, and it is through the hands of others here on earth that I have seen that love.  His example of service to these women has inspired me again and again as I am prompted to serve others around me.  

Many are familiar with the quote, "First observe, then serve", which was stated in the October 2012 General Conference by Sis. Linda K. Burton.  As I've pondered this simple, yet powerful statement, I have found that Christ's example is the most perfect way to put this into practice.  Even more wonderful, I have found His observations and service towards women in the New Testament as a balm of Gilead.  It has strengthened my testimony of our Heavenly Father's love for all of His daughters.  

I have compiled a few of the many stories from the New Testament where is observation and then service met individual needs, and it has made it more clear to me that each person needs to be served according to those needs.  There are many ways that people let us know what they need, and I believe that studying the Savior's life will help us to be more in tune with the Spirit so that we can be more open to observing them. 

Over the next four weeks, I will be relating stories from Christ's ministry and what I have learned about observing and then serving from the Master.  Each Friday and Tuesday at noon, a new story and my comments will be posted.  I invite everyone to join in and share their feelings about the stories, as well.  My goal is to create a safe place where we can all share our feelings on this important topic and learn from each other.  

Today's story is when Christ turns water into wine at a wedding in Cana--the first miracle performed by the Savior here on earth.  This story is found in John chapter 2.

I find it fascinating that the first miracle Jesus performed was at the request of a woman--His mother, Mary.  Mary was very forthright with the Savior.  She stated the problem, "They have no wine", to which Jesus responded by asking her what He should do.  Instead of telling Him what to do, she responds with faith, knowing that He is the Savior, and tells the servants to follow Jesus's instructions.  This is the observation.

The service comes straight afterwards--the Savior does not wait.  He instructs that nearby water pots are to be filled with water.  After this occurs, he tells the servants to draw from them, and they are amazed that they draw out wine instead of water.

So, what are the most important things to note about observation and service from this story?  In my opinion, they are that when someone asks for help, we defer to them to let us know what we can do.  We ask specifically, "What can I do to help you?"  The second thing I learn from this story is to serve immediately.  Sometimes we set ourselves up to fail because we stop to think too long.  By acting straight away, we become a person that is reliable and trusted.  The Spirit will send us more tasks to complete, and others will feel more comfortable asking us outright for what they need.

What aspects of this story do you see that can help you better observe, then serve?  I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!  Feel free to join our Facebook group, as well, where people from all walks of life are joining the conversation.  I will be back soon with my next post in this series. The story I will be using then is the woman at the well.  I hope to see you then!

P.S.: Please make sure that you keep all comments uplifting and kind.  Assume the best of each other and read all comments in a positive manner.  I truly believe that anyone commenting is only seeking to be understood and heard, not offend. :)

The Side of Self Reliance We Don't Talk About

I'm back.  I know, it's always a long time in between posts.  Not many of them get read, anyway, so I don't really feel that guilty about it. ;)  I've had a lot of time to think about some things that have been bothering me, and yesterday constituted the "last straw", if you will.  I think it's time we get nitty gritty about the side of self reliance we don't want to talk about.  It probably isn't at all what you're thinking...here it goes.

Merriam Webster defines self reliance as "reliance on one's own efforts and abilities."  This definition is preached from the pulpit, used to guilt people into shame for not being perfect, spoken in derision to those who have less that others and are considered "lazy".  This is NOT the side of self reliance that I want to talk about.  I think we all get that.

The side of self reliance that I would like to discuss is the side that involves covenants.  When you are baptized, you are making a covenant with God that you will do what Jesus would do. We covenant that we "are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort" (Mosiah 18:9).  Basically, this means that part of being self reliant, aka keeping covenants, is to help others as they struggle to do the same.  We cannot just sit and look down on those who are having a hard time and do nothing.  We cannot expect for them to just lift themselves up with absolutely no help.  

WE are the Savior's hands on the Earth.  We COVENANTED to be so.  If we won't help, nobody will help.  This means that the Atonement is not able to be fully utilized in the lives of those who are struggling.  That will be counted against us, especially if we have ignored promptings from the Spirit.

Now, some may say that people should tell us when they need help, and tell us specifics.  I reject that assumption.  If we are keeping our covenants, aka being self reliant, then we have the Spirit to guide us.  Following the Spirit's promptings is part of being self reliant.  When we expect others to tell us what to do, then we are NOT being self reliant.  Doctrine & Covenants 58:26 states, "For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward."  When we do nothing, we gain nothing.

Again, some may say that their service is not wanted or appreciated.  I say, so what?  Neither was the Savior's service.  Even His greatest gift, the Atonement, goes unwanted and unappreciated on a daily basis.  Are we any better than He?  Absolutely not.  ANYTIME we do good, it is counted for our good with God.  Anytime we do nothing, especially after we are prompted, it will be counted against us.  

One last excuse I have heard is the time thing.  You know, the "I don't have time to do my own thing, let alone help others do theirs!" thing.  I reject this, as well.  There is plenty of time to do what God expects of us.  He makes it possible.  If we don't ever seem to have time, it is a priorities issue, not a time issue.

I'm not saying that any of us will be 100% perfect about acting on promptings, especially when it's towards someone we know will take it the wrong way, I'm just saying that's not really an excuse to do nothing.  Same with the time excuse.  When we trust God, there will be time and there will be good will.  I hold myself responsible for this, as well.  It's my motivation to ACT when prompted, even when it's hard.  I'm not perfect at this, but I am trying.

Well, those are my thoughts for today.  I leave you with a question--how self reliant are you really?  I know that I will be thinking about this and changing my life accordingly.  It will be specific for each of us, but I invite you to join me!